While Paris often steals the spotlight with its iconic landmarks and romantic atmosphere, France is a country rich in diverse landscapes, culture, history, and charm far beyond its capital. From coastal towns to historic cities, France offers numerous destinations that promise an authentic and memorable travel experience. Here are 15 cities you should absolutely visit in France that showcase the beauty, history, and culture of the country.
1. Lyon
Located in the heart of France, Lyon is often referred to as the country’s gastronomic capital. With its renowned cuisine, charming old town, and Roman ruins, Lyon is a must-visit for food lovers and history buffs alike. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved Renaissance and medieval architecture.
Highlights:
- Vieux Lyon: One of Europe’s largest Renaissance neighborhoods.
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Offers stunning views of the city.
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: The ultimate market for food lovers.
- Traboules: Hidden passageways once used by silk merchants.
Why Visit: Lyon’s rich history, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene make it one of France’s most captivating cities.
2. Nice
Nice, located on the stunning French Riviera, is famous for its Mediterranean beaches, artistic history, and beautiful promenade. A mix of Italian and French influence gives the city a unique cultural vibe, with colorful buildings, lively markets, and some of the best weather in the country.
Highlights:
- Promenade des Anglais: A world-famous seaside promenade.
- Vieux Nice: The historic old town with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant markets.
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Marc Chagall National Museum: Showcases the works of the famous artist Marc Chagall.
- Cours Saleya Market: A lively flower and food market in the heart of the old town.
Why Visit: Nice is the perfect blend of beach life, art, and cultural heritage, offering visitors the chance to explore the beauty of the French Riviera while enjoying a laid-back, Mediterranean atmosphere.
3. Bordeaux
Known for its world-class wines, Bordeaux is a stunning city located in southwestern France. Besides being a gateway to the famous vineyards, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting beautiful 18th-century architecture, a vibrant waterfront, and a dynamic food scene.
Highlights:
- Place de la Bourse: A grand square with the iconic Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
- Cité du Vin: An immersive museum dedicated to the world of wine, offering tastings and educational exhibits.
- Saint-André Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral in the heart of the city.
- Les Quais: The beautifully renovated waterfront, perfect for a stroll along the Garonne River.
- Wine Tours: Explore the nearby Saint-Émilion and Medoc vineyards for some of the best wine-tasting experiences in the world.
Why Visit: Bordeaux is a dream destination for wine lovers, but its rich history, stunning architecture, and riverside charm make it a must-visit city for all travelers.
4. Marseille
As France’s second-largest city and its largest port, Marseille offers a dynamic mix of Mediterranean beauty, multicultural influences, and a deep sense of history. It is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, with a fascinating old town, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant street art.
Highlights:
- Vieux-Port (Old Port): The historic harbor area lined with cafes and seafood restaurants.
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde: A striking hilltop basilica that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
- Le Panier District: The oldest part of the city with colorful streets, local artisans, and historical sites.
- Calanques National Park: A breathtaking area of steep limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and turquoise waters, perfect for hiking and swimming.
Why Visit: Marseille’s coastal beauty, cultural diversity, and rich history make it a unique city that stands apart from the rest of France. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant port area or hiking the nearby Calanques, Marseille offers a dynamic combination of urban culture and natural beauty.
5. Strasbourg
Situated near the German border, Strasbourg beautifully blends French and German influences. Known for its medieval architecture and status as the seat of the European Parliament, Strasbourg is a charming city with a fairytale-like old town and stunning waterways.
Highlights:
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture with an impressive astronomical clock.
- Petite France: The picturesque district with half-timbered houses, canals, and quaint streets.
- Parc de l’Orangerie: A peaceful park perfect for relaxing and enjoying the greenery.
- European Parliament: Learn about the political significance of Strasbourg within the European Union.
Why Visit: Strasbourg offers a charming old town, rich history, and a unique fusion of French and German cultures, making it an ideal destination for lovers of history and architecture.
6. Toulouse
Known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) due to its distinctive pink terracotta buildings, Toulouse is a vibrant city in the southwest of France. Toulouse is a hub of aerospace, science, and technology but also has a rich cultural heritage and offers beautiful walks along the Garonne River.
Highlights:
- Capitole de Toulouse: The city’s grand town hall and theater, located in the central square.
- Basilica of Saint-Sernin: One of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe.
- Cité de l’Espace: A space-themed park and museum offering interactive exhibits about space exploration.
- Pont Neuf: Toulouse’s oldest bridge, perfect for an evening stroll along the river.
Why Visit: Toulouse offers a vibrant mix of historic architecture, modern innovation, and aerospace museums, making it a must-visit for both history lovers and science enthusiasts.
7. Lille
Located in northern France, Lille is a city that boasts Flemish influences, beautiful architecture, and a rich cultural scene. Its grand squares, art museums, and bustling markets make it an increasingly popular destination for visitors seeking a mix of history and modernity.
Highlights:
- Grand Place: Lille’s central square, surrounded by beautiful architecture and lively cafes.
- Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille: One of the largest art museums in France, featuring works by artists like Rubens and Delacroix.
- Old Lille (Vieux-Lille): A charming district with cobblestone streets, Flemish-style houses, and boutique shops.
- Marché de Wazemmes: A vibrant market with fresh produce, local foods, and a bustling atmosphere.
Why Visit: Lille is a hidden gem known for its art scene, Flemish charm, and proximity to Belgium, offering a unique cultural experience in northern France.
8. Nantes
Located in the Loire Valley, Nantes is a city with a rich maritime history, modern attractions, and a commitment to the arts. Known for its creative spirit and cutting-edge museums, Nantes has become a destination for visitors looking to experience something new.
Highlights:
- Château des Ducs de Bretagne: A beautiful castle that now houses a museum on the history of Nantes.
- Les Machines de l’Île: A unique attraction featuring giant mechanical animals, including the famous mechanical elephant.
- Île de Nantes: A trendy area filled with contemporary art, restaurants, and design shops.
- Passage Pommeraye: A stunning 19th-century shopping arcade with elegant architecture.
Why Visit: Nantes offers a fascinating blend of historical landmarks and artistic innovation, making it a must-visit for creative minds.
9. Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is one of the most beautiful cities in the Provence region, known for its charming streets, lush countryside, and vibrant cultural life. With its numerous fountains, markets, and art festivals, it’s the perfect destination for visitors seeking a slower, more relaxed pace.
Highlights:
- Cours Mirabeau: A tree-lined avenue with cafes, shops, and beautiful fountains.
- Saint-Sauveur Cathedral: A Romanesque and Gothic-style cathedral with stunning interiors.
- Atelier de Cézanne: The former studio of artist Paul Cézanne, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
- Provence Markets: Explore the city’s lively markets filled with local produce, flowers, and artisanal goods.
Why Visit: Aix-en-Provence is ideal for visitors looking to experience the Provence lifestyle, with its combination of artistic heritage, beautiful architecture, and vibrant markets.
10. Montpellier
Montpellier is a thriving university town on the southern coast of France. Known for its lively student atmosphere, historic architecture, and proximity to the Mediterranean, Montpellier offers a mix of beach life, cultural attractions, and vibrant street life.
Highlights:
- Place de la Comédie: The heart of the city, this bustling square is home to street performers, cafes, and shops.
- Promenade du Peyrou: A grand park with an impressive triumphal arch and beautiful city views.
- Fabre Museum: One of France’s finest art museums with an extensive collection of European paintings and sculptures.
- Montpellier Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral dating back to the 14th century.
Why Visit: Montpellier combines the energy of a student city with the relaxed atmosphere of the Mediterranean, making it perfect for a blend of culture and leisure.
11. Dijon
Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region, is famous for its mustard, but it offers much more than just culinary delights. The city is known for its beautiful medieval and Renaissance buildings, as well as its rich wine heritage. Dijon’s picturesque streets and fine wines make it a perfect stop for history and food lovers alike.
Highlights:
- Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy: A grand palace that now houses the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Les Halles Market: A historic covered market offering some of the best local food in the region.
- Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon: A Gothic masterpiece with unique gargoyles and intricate facades.
- Wine Tours: Explore the famous Burgundy vineyards, known for their world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Why Visit: Dijon is a culinary and historical haven that provides visitors with the opportunity to explore medieval architecture while indulging in some of the best food and wine in France.
12. Avignon
Located in the Provence region, Avignon is a city rich in history, most famous for being the seat of the Catholic papacy in the 14th century. The well-preserved city walls, the Papal Palace, and its cultural festivals make Avignon a must-visit for history lovers.
Highlights:
- Palais des Papes: One of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, once home to the popes.
- Pont d’Avignon: The famous medieval bridge that once spanned the Rhône River.
- Avignon Festival: A renowned theater festival held each July, attracting performers and visitors from around the world.
- Les Halles d’Avignon: A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional delicacies.
Why Visit: Avignon’s medieval history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural festivals make it a top destination in southern France.
13. Rennes
Rennes, the capital of Brittany, is known for its vibrant student population, well-preserved medieval architecture, and strong Breton identity. With its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and cultural events, Rennes is an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore the history and charm of northwestern France.
Highlights:
- Parlement de Bretagne: A grand building that once housed the regional parliament and is now a major cultural attraction.
- Thabor Gardens: Beautifully manicured gardens perfect for a peaceful stroll.
- Place Sainte-Anne: A bustling square surrounded by half-timbered houses and lively cafes.
- Marché des Lices: One of France’s largest and most famous farmers’ markets, offering fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
Why Visit: Rennes is a vibrant city that blends Breton culture with French history, making it a charming destination in the Brittany region.
14. Colmar
Located in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is like stepping into a fairy tale. Known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings, cobblestone streets, and colorful half-timbered houses, Colmar is one of France’s most picturesque cities.
Highlights:
- La Petite Venise: A charming district with canals lined by colorful houses and flowers.
- Unterlinden Museum: Housed in a 13th-century convent, it features the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.
- Saint Martin’s Church: A beautiful Gothic church in the heart of the city.
- Alsace Wine Route: Explore nearby vineyards and taste Alsace’s famous white wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Why Visit: Colmar’s charming architecture, canals, and wine heritage make it a magical destination in the Alsace region.
15. Reims
Known as the Coronation City of French kings and the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is a city rich in history and sparkling wine. Visitors come to see its magnificent cathedral and to enjoy the world-renowned Champagne houses.
Highlights:
- Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims): A stunning Gothic cathedral where French kings were crowned for over a thousand years.
- Palais du Tau: A former residence of the bishops, now a museum showcasing artifacts from the cathedral.
- Champagne Houses: Tour famous Champagne producers like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery.
- Basilica of Saint-Remi: A beautiful Romanesque basilica with a rich history.
Why Visit: Reims is a historical treasure and a must-visit for Champagne lovers, offering a perfect combination of French history and luxury.
Conclusion: Exploring France Beyond Paris
While Paris is undoubtedly a remarkable city, these 15 French cities showcase the diverse beauty, rich history, and unique culture that make France such a captivating country to explore. From the beaches of the French Riviera to the vineyards of Bordeaux and the medieval streets of Dijon, there’s so much more to discover beyond the capital. Each of these cities offers its own charm, making them essential stops on any trip to France.
