The River Garonne, which snakes through the town centre, has been the focal hub of the city for centuries, transporting goods in and out of the city. Indeed, the oldest barrel of wine anywhere in the world may be found in a dark cellar beneath the Hospice of Strasbourg. Troyes, an important settlement since the Roman period, features stunning medieval architecture, historic churches, and traditional timbered buildings lining its narrow streets. This is the place to come for fabulous, fresh seafood, all washed down with a pint of local cider. Here are 12 underrated places to visit in France. These are some of the best day trips from Paris—scroll down to see which places outside … History looms large here, and the region is redolent with memories of the brutal wars and occupations of the 19th and 20th centuries. Located in the Eure-et-Loire department of France, the city is best … Winemaking in Champagne has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the processes, techniques and produce that go into making this quintessential French export. The below map plots out our suggestions of places to see in France… In stark contrast to the glitzy image that surrounds the Champagne wines, this is a region of peace, calm and simple pleasures, where artisans and winemakers use traditional processes dating back centuries. Of all the cities near Paris, Chartres is one of the top places to visit. Discover Paris attractions outside of the city centre - there's so much more to be explored. French teacher, Carol Beth L. shares eight wonderful places to visit in France outside of Paris… Chances are the “City of Light” is one of the top places to visit on your travel itinerary. I, SURF, YOGA AND VEGAN FOOD! In the southwest corner of the region, the green hills drop away to a vast wetland in the Rhône delta. Finding things to do outside Paris is the easiest way to see what the whole country looks like. Explore the villages of the French Riviera with a tour. Absolutely – me too! With historical monuments, gourmet wining and dining, and plenty of little markets, there’s something for everyone at Bordeaux. Also, if you’re looking for unusual places to visit in Paris, France, this might top … Site by: Quest Creative. You’ve picked a great choice of regions to visit. Sending you all love, p. THIS IS WHY I'M LIVING IN COSTA RICA! The region’s fine produce is always on show here, and the fabulous Friday market at Les Halles is not to be missed, featuring local specialities such as Epoisses cheese, escargots (snails), and of course, the famous beef bourguignon. The regional capital, Reims, is a triumph of Gothic architecture, and its breath-taking cathedral was once the site where the kings of France were crowned and anointed. Discover the delights of the Languedoc on a guided tour. Home to over 6,000 vineyards, this profuse and fertile region offers some of the world’s finest wines, building on an ancient culture that goes back nearly 2000 years. The Avignon popes set about building a lavish palace, which stands to this day, complete with magnificent frescos. Here are five places where you can travel outside of Paris. Stretching from the Rhine to the dramatic hills of the Vosges, the Alsace is a natural treasure, and there’s plenty to keep nature-lovers occupied. Clearly, Paris holds a special allure that brings people to France in their droves. A trip here is an escape into some of the country’s most idyllic countryside, featuring rolling green hills covered in orderly vineyards, bright, yellow mustard fields, and tranquil canals. More ancient still, however, are the glittering caves and grottos that may be found deeper beneath the ground. Amazing place. Enjoy this stunning region by booking a day tour from Bayeux. The vintage is 1472, and it has survived the ravages of two world wars and countless fires. ... if during your visit you run into Daenerys and … When a lot of us think of France, we think of the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe: in short, we think of Paris. Saint-Paul de Vence, for example, is known for its maze of labyrinthine streets, and vibrant artistic culture. Explore Burgundy with a day trip from Beaune or Dijon. But honestly I could go on and on…Lyon, the Pyrennes, the Alps, Jura and volcanoes of Auvergne. The French Riviera – summer retreat of the jet-set – immediately conjures images of glamour, sophistication and style. #AllAboutFrance. Les Baux de Provence is perhaps the finest example of restored Provençal village architecture, with its own citadel and a fearsome reputation for gastronomy. 10 Best Places to Visit in France Last updated on October 1, 2020 in France 16 Comments For more than two decades, France has reigned as the world’s most popular tourist … Nevertheless, despite the importance of the past in defining Alsatian culture and identity, this is a forward-looking, optimistic, and utterly unique part of France that will leave you wanting much, much more. The stunning fortified towns of Amboise and Chinon both include their own castles, and provide an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Here are fifteen of the best nearby spots to visit on a day trip from Paris. You’re so right that France is such a varied place! Book a day trip to discover the gems of the Loire Valley here. A visit to the Loire means two things: wine and castles. Paris isn't the only travel destination France has to offer. It’s small wonder that artists and poets alike have found inspiration in this enchanting region; a visit to Giverny, where Monet painted his famous water lilies, is surely enough to see why. The Languedoc coast, unlike its Provençal neighbour, feels wild and unkempt and offers countless opportunities for exploration. Avoid the tourist trips and follow this guide for an authentic experience of traveling like a local around France. The Alsace wine route boasts more than 800 vineyards over a distance of 105 miles and offers a host of treats for lovers of viticulture. This wild coast is home to fabulous sea life and many species of birds, making it an ideal spot for nature observation. As may be expected for a place-between-worlds, Alsace has forged its own unique culture and identity, neither totally French, nor completely German, but always, absolutely Alsatian. There are so many beautiful towns, cities and regions outside of Paris and they all have their own unique character and identity (and food specialty!). I would also definitely add Brittany and the Basque coast to the list and one of my favourite places île de Ré. Thanks a lot! In particular, the Château de Chenonceau conjures images of fairy tales, with its elegant arches and towers, and a well-kept garden maze. Conclusion. There is so much more to France, than Paris – the only problem is fitting it all in! Get to know it’s intricacies and you’ll no doubt be yearning to return…. With gorgeous beaches, stunning architecture, and some of France’s finest seafood, this is a region with something for everyone. The well illuminated building, sizzling music and romantic décor makes it one of the best places to go in Paris at night. Over 800 years later, Saint-Emilion still stands as one of the most important wine-producing areas in France. In the Vézère Valley, over 200 separate Palaeolithic sites have been identified, and it seems that the prehistoric inhabitants of this beautiful region were attracted by the natural protection afforded by its limestone caves. Here are 5 little towns you should visit. This profuse, laid-back region offers plenty of activities for nature lovers. Book your day trip from Aix-en-Provence here. Aix-en-Provence, the elegant regional city, brings a touch of this rural sensuality to an urban setting, combining leafy courtyards, sculpted stone buildings, and wide boulevards strewn with terraces where visitors can while away the hours and watch the world go by. ... 10 Things We Hate About Paris: The Big, the Bad, and the Ugly The Top 32 Things to Do in Paris: Our Ultimate Bucketlist How to Avoid a Snobby Experience in France How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in France This stunning village offers exceptional views of the coast and is a haven for photographers. The overwhelming majority of people who visit France visit Paris, and only Paris. The company’s commitment to excellence has also awarded them a coveted spot in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for 5 years running! The city’s colourful markets bring together the very best of Provençal produce, in a vivid display that is sure to whet your appetite. Founded by me, Nadine. Long stretches of golden sand, bordered by undulating dunes, also offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun, and families flock here in the summer months to relax, play games and dip a toe in the Channel. This verdant region takes its name from the Viking conquerors that settled here in the 9th century (the name itself comes from ‘north men’ in Old Norse), and although the Normans have kept their fearsome reputation, visitors will always find a warm welcome. Can You Solo Travel While in a Relationship? Outside the cities and towns, the luscious green landscape is the ideal place to retreat from the world. What To Eat In Japan: 10 Must-Try Japanese Food Experiences. This historic medieval village was founded in the 8th century when a pious hermit named Emilion, made his home in the nearby caves. Whether you’re an aficionado of Bordeaux wines or not, this marvellous region has plenty to offer to visitors. The southwest French coast, stretching from the Camargue to the Côte Vermeille, next to the Spanish frontier, is exceptionally varied, including vast, sandy beaches, marshy wetlands, and pink, rocky outcrops. Coastal creeks, heavenly hilltops, truly charming châteaux: this is our pick of the most beautiful places to visit in France right now The Dordogne River snakes and weaves its way from the high mountains of the Auvergne, down to some of the finest countryside that France has to offer. There’s more to explore here than many people realise, and this part of the French coastline is a natural paradise, filled with stunning hidden villages, nestled in the mountains that rise up from the sea. This is the region that gives its name to those delicious, sparkling wines that have become an international marker of class and sophistication, and it’s impossible to come here without sampling a glass or two. Of course, France’s wine capital is a must-visit for food and wine connoisseurs – but don’t worry if that’s not your thing. This is a region with its own dialect, a rich and distinctive gastronomic culture, and an extremely long history of winemaking: people have been producing wine here since the 2nd century. I feel so privileged to be able to live in such a beautiful country. This article may contain affiliate links. Provence is also home to an abundance of wildlife, supported by its diverse range of natural habitats. I’m heading back to France next year, so I’m trying to narrow down my list of places there to visit. We are currently planning our trip and this kind of knowledge is exactly what we were after! Learn how your comment data is processed. Further inland, the landscape is dramatic, featuring imposing cliffs, gorges and valleys, chestnut forests, and vineyards, punctuated by some fabulous medieval architecture. Le Long Weekend showcases the dreamiest destinations with inspiring guides and itineraries. But how do you get to know a country as intricate as France? Fiercely independent, with a weighty history and a rugged charm, Normandy is often considered within France as a place apart. The Abbey dates back to the 8th century when, the legend goes, the archangel Michael appeared to Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, prompting him to found a monastery. Your email address will not be published. Great post and really happy to see you added Normandy – we have guests to our gite who come back more than once as there is just so much to see and do here! The Languedoc covers the southwest corner of France, a vast, sprawling region crammed full of fabulous treasures. France is a fairly large country (by European standards) and for the uninitiated, it can be a little tricky trying to visualise where everything is. Ranking of the top 25 things to do in Paris. The Loire and its tributaries irrigate this fertile landscape, allowing it to bear some of the finest natural produce that France has to offer. Explore the Alsace region – Book your tour here. Épernay, the regional capital, is the perfect base from which to set out into the vineyards; just be prepared to return with heavy bags and an empty wallet! Versailles. 17 Charming French Spots Prove the Best of France Is Outside of Paris. I feel especially lucky to have been able to spend months living in & getting to know several areas really well – but still so much more to discover! France is a beautiful country but too often people don’t travel outside of Paris. Nearly all of France and much of Europe are within a few hours by train from the transportation hub Paris. There’s plenty here to keep active families occupied, with hiking, climbing, cycling and canoeing on offer throughout the valley. Oysters and mussels are the local specialities, and in season, you can eat them directly on the beach: seafood doesn’t come fresher than this. But, as intoxicating as the capital city is, there’s more to France than Paris alone . The city also features several excellent museums, the famous Pont d’Avignon, and an annual arts and theatre festival that attracts an international crowd. And most importantly after reading this, you will get to know that not only Paris but there are plenty of places in France to visit. In fact, Champagne is a place with a visceral connection to its medieval past. The city of Bordeaux is a pleasant destination for a city break, with its wide boulevards, 18th-century architecture, and riverside street culture. Yet, Alsace has so much more to offer beyond its vineyards and its hearty food culture. Above ground, the Dordogne and Lot regions have even more treats on offer. 1. Among other things, how about visiting the Notre-Dame d’Amiens Cathedral, as it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Chinon is a particularly good stop for wine lovers, as it is one of the Loire’s main wine-producing areas, but this pleasant medieval settlement has many other things to offer, including a beautiful old town with distinctive slate-topped houses. The region is also dotted with impressive castles, many of which are set in marvellous gardens, overlooking small rivers. The Loire is France’s last untamed river, a 1000-mile-long, meandering natural habitat that humans have never quite managed to subdue. The Catalan area around Perpignan….I better stop! Another highlight is the Château de Chambord, an immense structure that was built as a hunting lodge for the French king Francois I, set in grounds filled with deer and wild boar. More prehistoric remains have been found here than in any other part of France, providing a unique glimpse of the earliest origins of human society. The list below covers ten sites of exceptional interest in France, outside Paris and the Paris region. I experienced the charm of small town France during a recent visit to Switzerland when we crossed over and went to Evian and almost to Ivoire. Outside the city, vineyards dominate the landscape, but Saint-Emilion, in the heart of the Bordeaux region, is an attractive spot for a day trip. What’s more, this corner of France is castle country, and there are many imposing, impressive reminders of the region’s medieval past in the ruins of Hohlandsbourg and Fleckenstein. Thaks for linking up to #AllAboutFrance and agreeing to host next time. Of all of those I think I like Normandy most (other than The Riviera and Provence which come first for me!) Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris; 2. The area around Bordeaux is best explored on foot or by bike, and this lush, sun-soaked region certainly won’t disappoint. Or wandering through ancient city lanes, pausing to examine archaic art etched into walls that you would have otherwise overlooked. How to Survive Europe on a Vegan Gluten-Free Diet, Why Group Tours Are Better Than Planning Your Own Travel Itinerary, The Ultimate One Week Manitoulin Island Road Trip Guide, 8 Reasons to Fall in Love with Burgundy, France, Food Porn: The Best Chocolate and Pastry in Paris, http://sandrineboutry.com/visiting-mont-st-michel-in-july/, http://sandrineboutry.com/a-roadtrip-to-salers-in-the-cantal-area/, Once You Have a Baby, Youâll Have to Stop Traveling, What You Can Do In Canadaâs Newest National Park. The Norman dukes were medieval rockstars, and they left their mark in the shape of castles and cathedrals. #AllAboutFrance, So many visitors just head to Paris and however wonderful the city is, France is much more than just her capital. I’d like to explore more of Alsace, I’ve really only scratched the surface. Trying to experience the best of France on your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. HOW OFTEN DO YOU DO SOMETHING THAT SCARES YOU? The ‘langue d’oc’, literally means the ‘language of yes’, and refers to a medieval French dialect that fostered a rich literary and poetic culture during the Middle Ages. The jewel in the crown is the fabulous site at Lascaux, where, 17,000 years ago, early humans covered the walls of the cave complex with a series of incredible paintings. Book a day trip to Saint-Emilion from Bordeaux here. Avignon, one of Provence’s main cities, also offers visitors plenty of things to see and do. Avignon An ancient town surrounded by 800-year-old stone ramparts, romantic Avignon sits along the Rhone just waiting for you to explore. Louvre Museum ... as an extension of court life outside of Paris. As always, Le Long Weekend maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. These picturesque villages and fortified chateaux, constructed in golden stone, are set within glorious natural scenery, with abundant wildlife and birdlife. This region is littered with incredible rock formations, formed over millions of years, with stalactites and stalagmites that have merged into epic pillars, creating natural, subterranean cathedrals of sparkling rock. The cities of the Languedoc, including Toulouse and Montpelier, are known for their pleasant boulevards and squares and laid back atmosphere. All are very much worth the visit. The pace of life here follows the river, slow and relaxed, with seasonal bursts of activity. This is undoubtedly the French countryside at its finest. The beautiful medieval settlements of Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac and Sarlat-la-Canéda are well worth a visit, as are the castles at Beynac and Castelnaud. I definitely want to explore France other than Paris and these suggested regions help me to narrow down destinations. Travelers favorites include #1 Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris), #2 Musée du Louvre and more. 7. The small, walled town of Beaune, with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and labyrinthine wine cellars has charm in abundance. Just a stone’s throw from the capital, yet half a world away: the green, lush region of Champagne is one of France’s most iconic spots. Several interesting and entertaining destinations, including chateaus, natural parks, and medieval fortifications, are within close reach of the city. Simply click on the markers to reveal each location. JACKFRUIT!! Picture-perfect medieval villages such as Venasque, Uzès and Gordes offer ample opportunity for exploration, featuring cobbled streets, golden stone architecture, and green, mountainous backdrops. This delightful village is one of the best places to visit in France for inspiring … For walkers, the magnificent Morvan National Park provides over 1000 square kilometres of unspoilt countryside, filled with lakes, waterfalls, and atmospheric woodland. Don’t despair if your wallet doesn’t stretch to long nights on the town in the fashionable resorts of St Tropez and Antibes or the casinos of Monte Carlo. The ideal France holiday destination, this region is a little slice of heaven on earth. The city is a cultural hub, and visitors come here for the exceptional art galleries and museums, and renowned dining scene. Source: PhotoFires / shutterstock ... No trip to France would be complete without a visit to the home of its most famous export: Champagne. Book direct and get 10% off all packages with the code HAPPYESCAPE2020, France is a magically diverse country, full of surprises and closely held secrets. Map of the top places to visit in France. This wild, sprawling castle continues to delight visitors and is thought to have been inspired by sketches by Leonardo da Vinci. ... Top 10 attractions outside Paris … Love this list! Most of them are recognised as UNESCO world heritage sites; most attract large numbers of visitors. Located in the Loire valley, Chartres is a gateway to the land of castles. Haha yes, Provence will always come first for me too – but I’m just a little bit biased , Some fantastic suggestions here, some I have visited but others are on the list! Away from the wine trail, the Champagne region exudes old-world charm, and wandering through its beautiful villages and towns often feels like a step back in time. The below map plots out our suggestions of places to see in France, so that you can get your bearings easily. But, like any country, France … Throughout the summer, a swathe of festivals and food markets crop up along the wine route, making Alsace an extremely attractive prospect for a summer road trip. If you don’t go for a trip in the other regions of France after your stay in Paris, it is really the best way to have an insight of what France is all about, more generally than Paris . Awesome. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. However, Carcassonne was not the only stronghold left behind by the Cathars, and it’s still possible to visit the dramatic ruined vestiges of Montségur, Quéribus and Peyrepertuse for an atmospheric evocation of the medieval past. Two of my favourite places in France … Here, it’s also possible to hire bikes, and set off to enjoy the slow beauty of the Loire Valley on two wheels, at your own pace. Your email address will not be published. Burgundy, known internationally for its rich, full-bodied wines, is one of France’s lesser-visited regions. Sure, spend a few days eyeing up the Iron Lady, sipping café noir in a quintessential curbside bistro, and learning the art of flaneur… But then drive, train or bus to another corner of l’hexagone to discover another world. #30 in World's Best Places to Visit A spectacular cluster of three waterfalls, Niagara Falls is a must-see if you want a glimpse of some of North America's best sites. Your email address will not be published. But to truly get to know a destination, I usually recommend taking at least one tour with a guide who is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about the area. The Languedoc has long been a historical crossing point, the meeting place of different cultures, languages and even religions. Rolling fields of bright, purple lavender, rows of vines stretching into the horizon, and gorgeous groves of twisted olive trees mark out Provence as a true garden of delights. I could spend weeks in each region. These diverse influences have produced a rich and distinctive culture, making this one of France’s most rewarding regions for curious travellers. I h, MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! See our full disclosure here. I mostly spent time in Paris so I have much to catch up to. However, while a vineyard tour should definitely be on the agenda, this beguiling region has plenty of other treats to entice visitors. There’s so much to discover! ... Free Paris Visite travel card included with all passes. And of course, one of the most fascinating Paris tourist places. The most famous landmark in France outside the great icons of Paris, Mont St Michel is superb. So after reading the list of top 10 places to visit in France, you will be ready to plan your trip to France. Outside the city, the countryside is littered with fabulous medieval monasteries, castles, and some of France’s most beautiful villages. This is really informative post. This article may contain affiliate links. 15 Best Airbnbs in Marseille, France – Seaside Escapes to Inner-City Lofts, Free & Cheap Things to do in Kaikoura, New Zealand, A Guide to Portovenere Italy – Liguria’s Lesser-Known Jewel. From the German-influence infiltrating the eastern border, to the Mediterranean flavour of the French Riviera, and the idyllic islands at a tickling distance of the country’s western shores, France is as complex as it is compelling. The sublime Gothic churches of Rouen, Coutances and Caen are fitting monuments to this glorious past, as is the unique Bayeux tapestry, the first battle narrative to be told entirely in thread. By Laurent ... French places that you can go to instead of Paris. Places to visit in France outside of Paris include this place. Some of the places you have mentioned I hadn’t even heard of and yes, there is so much more to France than just Paris. Over time, the settlement developed into an important religious centre, and it’s possible to get a little closer to this rich history today by exploring the caves underneath the village. *This post has been bought to you in partnership with Ophorus. In fact, the entire country is full of incredible places … I’ve never been to France but planning to visit in a few years with my family. Traversing the Dordogne and Lot involves, by necessity, an encounter with a very ancient past. I have absolutely been won over by the diverse nature of France’s landscapes, so today I’m sharing some of my recommendations for the best places to go in France, besides Paris…. Money Back Guarantee. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Come in the quieter months and you’ll enjoy the warm sunshine, empty beaches, and turquoise seas: it’s easy to see why visitors return to the Côte d’Azur again and again. This is the place to hire a bike and spend the day weaving through the vineyards or drift lazily through the countryside in a canal boat, admiring the view. ... • "Bucket List Travel: Top 10 Places In The World And Top 29 In The U.S." Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. My favourite city in the west and one of the places to visit in France that I can go back again and again. And while most people who visit France land in Paris, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you ventured no further than the world’s favourite capital. Visit the Place de la Bourse, check out the Water Mirror, go to th… Paris, France. Between the fairytale villages of Alsace and the beaches of Cannes and Nice, there's an ideal vacation spot for everyone. Pilgrims of a different kind arrive at the small town of Rennes-le-Chateau, seeking answers to a conspiracy theory that has raged for decades. Imagine being led through a landscape laced with vineyards, to learn the intricacies of winemaking direct from the source. Alsace is a quintessential frontier zone, part of that northern French hinterland that has changed hands between France and Germany so often over the centuries. Port Grimaud, the Venice of the Riviera, is characterised by its canals, waterways, and vibrantly painted houses. The pleasant waterfront town of Sète, with its seaside corniche and atmospheric canals, is one of the best places in France to sample the catch of the day. Dijon, the regional capital, was once the home of the Burgundian dukes, and their influence may still be felt in the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture that makes up the city. Built from 1220 to 1288, it is one of the tallest Gothic churches in France. This is one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, and with good reason: the Côte d’Azur is truly stunning, comprising sandy beaches, vibrant markets, picturesque towns, coastal walking trails, and blazing red cliffs. One that is sure to seduce you with its intoxicating charm and universally appealing lifestyle. Aaaah les châteaux de la Loire! They excel at helping you discover the very best of France, their home, in a relaxed and friendly way. The fortified city of Carcassonne, once the stronghold of the Cathar heretics who rebelled against the king, is truly breathtaking and not to be missed. However, Provence’s most enticing charms are found outside the main urban hubs, in the countryside. Provence, the delightful region that envelops the Côte d’Azur, is a heady assault on the senses. Thanks Nadine for your insights. Passing by dramatic fortified castles, perched precariously on high cliffs, the river continues through Bergerac until it meets the Garonne River at Bordeaux. It offers an ideal place for an afternoon stroll, lined with attractive cafes and restaurants offering refreshments for weary travellers. This is the ideal place to toss out the maps and get lost – you never know what you might discover. See our full disclosure here. A New Zealand-native now ensconced in the Provence countryside. 10. 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Food culture this post has been bought to you in partnership with Ophorus LIVING COSTA. And get lost – you never know what you might discover city is, there s... To experience the best of France, a vast, sprawling region crammed full of fabulous.... Weighty history and a rugged charm, Normandy is often considered within France as a place apart the... Friendly way few years with my family through a landscape laced with vineyards, to discover the that!, roaming bulls and flocks of startling pink flamingos neighbour, feels wild and unkempt and offers opportunities... The green hills drop away to a vast wetland in the world Paris is n't the only problem fitting! Department of France ’ s most enticing charms are found outside the cities the. Answers to a conspiracy theory that has inspired so many, doesn ’ disappoint. Should definitely be on the markers to reveal each location historical monuments, gourmet wining and,... 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