Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about the best cities in France. France is one of our favorite countries, and cities and towns like these are a huge reason we keep coming back. Of course, there are way more than ten best places in France to recommend, but if we have to choose…these are our top ten destinations in France.
Paris
Of course, you have to visit Paris when you plan a trip to France! Paris is the number one EU destination city because there are so many amazing things to see in France. Paris has some of the most famous art museums in the world, the most iconic skyline in the world, and some of the best food in the world.
What to Know Before Visiting Paris
The Loire Valley
A few hours from Paris, the Loire Valley is the best place to see castles in France. While the Loire Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, you’ll barely scratch the surface of all the castles. We recommend staying in Amboise or Blois, renting a car, and taking a few days to explore all the castles.
Normandy
In the northern region of Normandy, there are several worthwhile destinations. Mont Saint-Michel is an island topped by a majestic abbey. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, it’s surrounded by water at high tide. Of course, the D-Day beaches are also located in Normandy. This is really such an important part of US and European history, you can’t miss it when you visit France.
Shocks to Expect When Visiting Normandy
Bordeaux
In the southwest part of France, Bordeaux is best known for the wine of the same name. Naturally, you’ll want to do some wine tasting and purchasing when you are in Bordeaux. However, the locals call it “Little Paris” because it’s so beautiful and it has a really great vibe.
French Riviera
In Southern France, the French Riviera is the best place to go. Nice is a beautiful city, although the beaches are small stones, not sand! Cannes is known for the film festival and has a lovely beach. Monte Carlo is also a fantastic day trip from Nice or Cannes.
Avignon
In the 14th century, the Pope moved from Rome to Avignon for a period of time. You can still visit the Papal Palace in Avignon, and there’s a really great bridge to see as well.
Strasbourg
In the northeast region of Alsace, Strasbourg gives you a taste of Germany, in France. The entire region changed hands many times over the centuries, so there is a distinct German influence on this French town. You have canals running through the city, creating the Grand Ile, which is the hub of things to see in Strasbourg.
Nancy
Another Alsatian destination is Nancy. Set on the River Muerthe, Nancy has a distinct mixture of French, Polish, and Lithuanian influences. Stanislaus Square is one of the prettiest squares in France, with elaborate gates and fountains.
Aix-En-Provence
Aix-En-Provence isn’t necessarily the best town in Provence, but it’s perfectly situated as a home base for exploring Provence. It has all of the infrastructure to make it easy for tourists, while not being overly touristy.
Rouen
If you follow the Seine north from Paris, you’ll come to Rouen, an important city from the Roman era and Middle Ages. The Notre Dame Cathedral of Rouen is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France. At only 90 minutes from Paris, Rouen is one of the popular day trips from Paris, but we prefer to stay overnight and enjoy the city after most tourists have returned to Paris for the evening.
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Narrowing the best cities in France down to just ten really doesn’t do it justice, but you have to start somewhere. Honestly, France has so many amazing places to explore that you can plan a trip every year and still not see all the best cities in France. Want more tips for traveling in France? Check out these blog posts: