France draws visitors for a reason. From Parisian boulevards to sunlit Mediterranean shores, this country offers exquisite cuisine, world-class wines, romantic chateaux and landscapes that keep surprising me every time I return. Below I share 18 places across France that I think capture the country’s variety and soul.
My 18 favourite places in France
1. Cannes
Cannes transformed from a fishing village into a glamorous seaside city. I love strolling the palm-lined promenade and imagining the red-carpet buzz of the annual film festival. High-end boutiques and waterfront cafes make Cannes an indulgent stop on the French Riviera.
2. Colmar
Colmar, in the Alsace region of France, looks like a fairytale. Its canals, timbered houses and cobblestone alleys feel wonderfully preserved. I always make time to taste Alsace wines and visit the Isenheim Altarpiece while I’m in town.
3. Marseille
Marseille is one of France’s oldest port cities and it still hums with life. The Old Port, historic forts and the Calanques—limestone inlets with startling blue water—are highlights. The city’s cosmopolitan food scene reliably surprises me.
4. Gorges du Verdon
For dramatic scenery, the Verdon Gorge is hard to beat. This canyon in southeastern France has cliffs soaring up to 700 metres and a turquoise river ideal for kayaking. I recommend renting a kayak or taking one of the viewpoints along the rim.
5. Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a perfectly preserved medieval citadel that feels like stepping into a storybook. Walking its ramparts and winding streets offers a real sense of history. I find the fortress especially atmospheric at dusk.
6. Èze
Perched above the Mediterranean, Èze is a tiny hilltop village full of charm. Narrow stone streets, bougainvillea-draped villas and panoramic sea views reward the climb to the summit. Don’t miss the exotic garden and the old church with its intriguing Egyptian cross.
7. Chamonix
Chamonix sits in the shadow of Mont Blanc and is a year-round playground for mountain lovers. Whether I’m skiing, hiking or simply soaking up the Alpine atmosphere, the village’s mix of rustic charm and outdoor adventure is irresistible.
8. Palace of Versailles
Versailles is France’s ultimate royal extravagance. The Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Apartments and the formal gardens showcase why Louis XIV made it the centre of court life. I allow a full day to wander the palace and grounds.
9. Corsica
Corsica feels like a different world—part Mediterranean island, part rugged mountain range. I love hiking its trails, exploring fortified citadels and relaxing on pristine beaches. The island’s mix of French and Italian influences gives it a unique flavour.
10. Lyon
Lyon is France’s gastronomic hub. Historic neighbourhoods, Renaissance architecture and a vibrant food scene make it one of my favourite cities for long lunches. Be sure to sample traditional Lyonnais dishes and stroll the old town.
11. Strasbourg
Strasbourg blends French and German heritage, visible in its Gothic cathedral and the pretty district of La Petite France. The city is lively, with university life and modern European institutions adding contrast to its historic core.
12. Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is chateau country. Rolling hills, vineyards and an astonishing number of chateaux—from fortified keep to lavish palace—make it one of the most picturesque regions in France. I often plan a slow drive with winery stops along the way.
13. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is elegant and offers some of the best wine experiences in France. The city’s neoclassical architecture and riverside promenades provide a scenic backdrop for tasting world-class vintages. Nighttime views from the Pont de Pierre are especially beautiful.
14. Avignon
Avignon’s papal history is visible in its imposing Palais des Papes and medieval ramparts. The Rhône wraps around the old town, creating a wonderfully contained historic centre. If you can, visit during the July arts festival, though it can be crowded.
15. Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel rises like a mirage from Normandy’s tidal flats and is crowned by a dramatic abbey. Tidal variations can be immense, which makes the site even more remarkable. I recommend timing a visit to see the tides in action.
16. Dordogne
The Dordogne region is all about countryside charm—river valleys, hilltop villages and prehistoric caves. I love exploring its chateaux and stopping at markets to sample local specialties like foie gras and walnuts.
17. Nice
Nice is sunshine and turquoise seas. The Promenade des Anglais, pebbled beaches and a lively old town make it the French Riviera’s most approachable city. I find Nice a great base to explore nearby coastal towns and soak up Mediterranean life.
18. Paris
Paris remains unrivalled in its combination of art, architecture and atmosphere. From the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame to the Louvre and hidden passageways, I never tire of discovering new corners of the city. Paris rewards both first-time visitors and those who return repeatedly.
Practical tips for visiting France
- Timing: Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds, though the Riviera dazzles in summer.
- Transport: France has an excellent rail network—use high-speed trains to cover long distances and rent a car for rural regions like Dordogne and the Loire Valley.
- Cuisine and wine: Regional food is a highlight. Ask locals for restaurant tips and visit wineries for tastings whenever possible.
- Pacing: Focus on a region per trip rather than trying to see everything. France’s diversity rewards slow travel.
Final thoughts
France is a country that keeps giving. Whether you want coastal sun, Alpine peaks, medieval walls, chateau grandeur or metropolitan culture, you can craft an itinerary to match. I return to France time and again because each region brings something fresh and compelling to explore.
