Sipping wine, tasting French cheese, and letting in the beauty of the French Riviera seems like a dream come true!
What if we tell you that France is more than just Paris? Are you willing to know more about the unique and best places to visit in France other than the capital?
Known for its fashion, culture, desserts, wines, and gorgeous cities in the world, France is undoubtedly one of the most attractive tourist destinations.
The country receives an average of 77.8 million international visitors every year as per the EU Reporter. In 2022, 79.4 million tourists visited France.
Paris was crowned as the ‘Most Visited City in the World’ in 2022 welcoming 44 million tourists alone.
This year, the city is making news for organizing the Paris Olympics 2024.
Yet Paris isn’t the only attraction that you should be looking forward to on your trip to France.
There are many places to visit in France that are just as beautiful and culturally rich.
Best Time to Visit France
France enjoys a favorable and pleasant climate most of the year making it perfect for tourist activities. The winters are cool and summers are mild so that outdoor activities are not too uncomfortable.
The spring and winter months are frequented by fewer tourists compared to the peak season. Most of the tourists prefer to visit during the summer season.
If you are on a budget and want to avoid tourist crowds, planning a trip to France during the spring or autumn months is advisable.
Best Places to Visit in France
Here are the best places to visit in France that you should consider exploring other than Paris:
1. French Riviera
Are you even visiting France if you are not exploring the majestic towns of the French Riviera?!
This region is the perfect luxury getaway that you need to relax and rejuvenate.
The beach resorts of Cannes and Saint-Tropez are deeply luxurious yet traditional so that you can witness French culture at its core.
Not to mention, the lush olive trees, delicious mimosas, and sound of cicadas are more than enough to take your heart away!
2. Lyon
The third largest French city and one of the ancient hubs of Renaissance architecture and culture, Lyon is among the best places to visit in France.
The city is known for its rich history, commemorated by its architecture as well as secret alleys leading to hidden gems.
Don’t forget to take a food tour of its special restaurants called ‘bouchons’.
3. Versailles
A short trip from Paris to Versailles should definitely be on your France bucket list!
The famous Palace of Versailles is the epitome of French architecture that boasts the history and legacy of French people and their culture.
Apart from the mighty Palace, there are many tourist attractions that one can explore to experience the beauty of French royal architecture.
4. Normandy
Situated in the Northern part of the country, Normandy is a hit among the popular places to visit in France.
Famous for its hills, river channels, vast coastline, and art scene, the region is a must-visit for those who want to explore French culture other than Paris.
From witnessing the grandeur of famous artists to soaking under the sun at the French coastline and taking historical tours of the localities, there’s so much to do in Normandy that you won’t have enough days to cover it all!
5. Provence
Any trip to France would be incomplete without a wine-tasting tour and what better place for it than Provence!
Located in the southeastern region, Provence is one of the best places to visit in France if you are looking for a countryside getaway.
The region is known for its captivating landscapes filled with olive trees, lavender fields, vineyards, and pine forests.
From quaint hilltop villages to bustling cities, Roman ruins, and lush fields, there is something to do for everyone here.
6. Bordeaux
Known as the ‘Wine Capital of the World’, Bordeaux is a must-visit for all wine lovers surrounded by magnificent palaces and vineyards.
One can spot architecture from different eras here along with picturesque riverfront views of the Garonne River.
Whether you plan a cruise tour along the river, eat your heart out at the local cafes, or relish the authentic French wine, you are sure to have happy hours here!
7. Corsica
Tamasha fans will know how vibrant and alluring this French island is!
The fourth largest Mediterranean island is one of the best places to visit in France with its pristine beaches, blended culture, and beautiful landscapes.
The culture here is a mix of Italian and French influences giving a new experience altogether to the tourists.
8. Toulouse
Known as the ‘Pink City of France’, Toulouse has a distinct architecture that stands up to its title with colorful terracotta bricks.
The city is known for its art, culture, history, and cuisine much like other French attractions.
It is home to some of the best museums in France, thus a fascinating destination for history buffs.
The city is one of the walkable cities in France so you can explore its vibrance on foot easily on a guided tour.
9. Morzine
One of the most unique and best places to visit in France, Morzine, is an alpine town that welcomes adventure enthusiasts with open arms.
The town is perfect for outdoor adventures like skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, and mountain biking.
If you are not feeling too adventurous, you can marvel at nature on one of the hikes, or relax by lakes overlooking the majestic mountain peaks, or take a tour of the quaint mountain villages to share experiences with locals.
10. Colmar
This medieval town is perfect for some Instagram-worthy pictures.
The vibrant timbered houses, serene canals, small museums, and art galleries - all will remind you of Venice.
Its Venice district attracts many shopaholics looking to take some souvenirs home at various boutique shops.
From shopping therapy to wine tasting, museum tours, art scenes, and boat rides along the canals, there is something for each traveler here.
From the French Riviera to the majestic French Alps, France has an appeal to the tourists like no other destination which makes it so dreamy!
All set to explore the best places to visit in France? Let us be your visa partner for the experience of a lifetime to make sure your journey remains hassle-free and full of adventures.
