Let’s go together on a tour of France’s most beautiful cities and its amazing jewels that are sure to give you the desire to travel. Let’s start this tour that will blow your mind!
13) Carcassonne
A medieval town in the south of France, located in the Occitanie region, Carcassonne boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Canal du Midi and the city of Carcassonne.
As well as being nestled on a hill, its medieval town overlooks the entire city, offering a majestic step back in time to the heart of the Middle Ages.
The town’s fortifications, punctuated by towers and battlements, embrace a maze of cobbled streets and ancient buildings.
Considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval sites in the world, seeing it at night is an experience that can’t to be missed!
12) Rouen
Rouen is famous for its historic monuments, such as its Gothic cathedral and the Gros Horloge.
The town’s medieval architecture exhibits a special atmosphere, with its many religious monuments giving it the nickname of the “Town of 100 bells“.
11) Montpellier
Montpellier, it’s a real treat for the eyes!
Between the old facades of the historic center, the narrow winding streets, and the squares brimming with life like the famous Place de la Comédie, this city has a real charm all of its own.
Not to mention the stylish mix of modern and ancient architecture that gives the town its unique character.
10) Biarritz
Nicknamed the “little California“, Biarritz is known for its waves, which are ideal for surfing, but also for its magnificent beaches.
And then there’s the elegant atmosphere, with the casino and old hotels reminiscent of the glamor of its former times.
Wherever you look, the scenery is sure to take your breath away, especially at sunset when the sea reveals a new palette of colors.
9) Bonifacio
Set on white limestone cliffs, the town overlooks the breathtaking blue sea. The houses perched on the edge of the void are quite something!
Also, the small alleys and the winding stairs, aid in the city’s incredible charm.
Not to mention the views from the upper town – quite frankly, this is something you have to see at least once in your life!
8) Nice
Nice, of course it’s known for the famous Promenade des Anglais, with its pebble beaches and blue sea.
And then there’s Old Nice, with its colorful alleyways full of life. Not forgetting the markets, the flowers, and the spices…
7) Marseille
Marseille really is the beating heart of southern France. The Old Port, with its colorful boats and ancient facades, display its classy charm.
For the “Bonne Mère” (“Good Mother”), the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, is home to the statue of the Virgin and Child, gleaming with gold.
And then, if you look around, the Calanques are right there, with their white cliffs and turquoise waters that provide a breathtaking natural spectacle.
As for the Palais Longchamp, its statues and fountain, with its arched architecture, is a real eye-catcher.
6) Nantes
Situated in the west of France and crossed by the Loire, Nantes stands out from other cities for its modern artistic installations, notably with its “Voyage à Nantes”.
The Machines de l’Île is quite something: these giant mechanical animals are the pride of the city.
And the Château des Ducs de Bretagne (“Castle of the Dukes of Brittany”) looks like something out of a Disney film, with those massive ramparts.
Then there’s the Bouffay district, where every old house tells a story, offering a setting straight out of a postcard.
5) Annecy
Annecy is like a living postcard. The lake, with its incredible blue color, is surrounded by mountains, making for a crazy panorama.
Then there’s the old town, with its canals and colorful houses, known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’, and frankly, it’s understandable. The cobbled streets and little bridges are just too charming.
And the castle overlooking the town adds to the fairytale atmosphere.
Annecy is the perfect combination of nature and history, with beauty around every corner.
4) Lyon
Old Lyon, with its traboules (small covered passageways typical of Lyon) and Renaissance buildings, has an incredible historic cachet.
Then there’s the Fourvière hill with its basilica overlooking the city – the view from up there is superb!
And the quays of the Rhône, in the evening with the lights, are superbly beautiful. And don’t forget the Presqu’île, between the Rhône and Saône rivers, with its squares and Haussmann-style buildings.
Lyon displays a perfect blend of history, modernity and neighborhood life, and that’s what makes it so special.
3) Toulouse
Toulouse, “La Ville Rose” (the Pink City), is all about the bricks that give it its distinctive color.
The Place du Capitole is the beating heart of the city, always bustling with restaurants and cafés. And the Capitole isn’t just a building. There are some incredible things inside, like the Théâtre du Capitole (Capitole’s theater) and the Salle des Illustres, where every corner gleams with gold.
And let’s not forget the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Saint-Sernin, which is a real gem with its arches and unique bell tower.
Then there’s the banks of the Garonne and the Canal du Midi, the perfect spots for hanging around and chilling in the sun.
2) Bordeaux
The water mirror in front of the Place de la Bourse makes for some incredible Instagram photos.
The medieval town center, with its picturesque pedestrian streets and charming squares, is full of life. The blonde stone buildings add a touch of elegance to everything.
The docks of the Garonne are an incredible sight at night, with the many illuminations lining the quayside.
1) Paris
Paris, the “City of Light”, had to be in first place! With the Eiffel Tower lighting up the sky, and providing an incredible, world famous view.
And then there’s the docks of the Seine and its historic bridges, especially in the evening – it’s as romantic as it gets.
Neighborhoods like Montmartre, with its narrow streets and local artists, showcase a real charm. The Marais, with its little shops and alleyways, has a super trendy feel.
Not to mention breathtaking monuments such as Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe.
Paris is a city with so many different styles, all of which blend together perfectly. That’s what makes it so unique and its beauty unrivaled.
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
