110 most beautiful places to visit in France

Why seek escape abroad when France is home to treasures of exceptional beauty? From the wilds of Brittany to the peaks of the Alps, from the châteaux of the Loire to the calanques of Provence, France offers a diversity of landscapes that has nothing to envy even the most remote destinations. Discover our selection of the 110 most beautiful places to visit in France, an invitation to travel through our natural and cultural heritage.

This list of the most beautiful places in France will guide you region by region to exceptional destinations. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover or in search of authenticity, each place selected promises an unforgettable experience. Let yourself be inspired by this geography of French wonder!

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1. Île-de-France: the royal heart of France

The Île-de-France region boasts an exceptional historical heritage centred around the capital. This region of the kings of France boasts grandiose monuments and formal gardens that are the stuff of dreams the world over.

1. Paris – The City of Light

As the world’s capital of art and culture, visiting Paris is a unique experience. From the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées, via the Louvre and Notre-Dame, each district tells the story of France. Stroll through the narrow streets of Montmartre, discover the secrets of the Marais or admire the Impressionist works at the Musée d’Orsay.

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2. The Château de Versailles

A symbol of French art de vivre, the Château de Versailles (78000 Versailles, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 89,000 reviews) dazzles visitors with its splendour and French-style gardens. The royal flats, the Hall of Mirrors and Le Nôtre’s gardens bear witness to the grandeur of the Ancien Régime.

3. Fontainebleau

The Château de Fontainebleau (77300 Fontainebleau, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 25,000 reviews) and its forest offer a majestic setting just outside Paris. The favourite residence of François I and Napoleon, this Renaissance château is as fascinating as its forest, a climber’s paradise.

4. Provins

A UNESCO-listed medieval town, Provins (77160 Provins, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) transports visitors back to the world of the Champagne fairs. Its ramparts, Caesar Tower and medieval shows bring the Middle Ages to life.

2. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: between sea and mountains

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur combines the Mediterranean art of living with grandiose Alpine landscapes. This region offers a palette of colours and scents that is unique in France.

5. Marseille – The city of Marseille

As France’s oldest city, a visit to Marseille immerses you in 2600 years of Mediterranean history. From the Old Port to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, via the Panier district, Marseille reveals its cosmopolitan soul and Provencal traditions.

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6. Nice – The pearl of the Côte d’Azur

To visit Nice is to discover the elegance of the French Riviera. The Promenade des Anglais, Old Nice and its colourful markets, not to mention the museums dedicated to Matisse and Chagall, make Nice a major artistic destination.

7. Avignon – City of the Popes

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to Avignon takes you back to the time of the Popes. The Palais des Papes, the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet and the medieval ramparts bear witness to the past grandeur of this papal city.

8. Aix-en-Provence – Cézanne’s city

The birthplace of Paul Cézanne, a visit to Aix-en-Provence reveals the Provençal art of living. Its fountains, shady courtyards and colourful markets have inspired artists and writers for centuries.

9. Cannes – The glamour of the Côte d’Azur

Famous for its film festival, a visit to Cannes means walking the red carpet of the Croisette. With its palaces, private beaches and luxury boutiques, Cannes embodies the Mediterranean dream.

10. The Calanques of Cassis

A national park since 2012, the Calanques de Cassis (13260 Cassis, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 45,000 reviews) offer stunningly beautiful Mediterranean fjords. These coves with their turquoise waters set in limestone rock form a unique ecosystem.

11. Menton – The pearl of France

As the most easterly town on the Côte d’Azur, a visit to Menton means discovering the mild Mediterranean climate. Its exotic gardens, Lemon Festival and exceptional microclimate make it a little Franco-Italian paradise.

12. Antibes – Heading for the French Riviera

Between the traditions of Provence and the modernity of the Côte d’Azur, a visit to Antibes reveals an authentic seaside town. Its Picasso museum, ramparts and Port Vauban, one of Europe’s largest marinas, are sure to attract visitors.

13. Monaco – On the Princes’ Rock

A sovereign principality in the heart of the Riviera, a visit to Monaco is a discovery of luxury à la française. Its legendary casino, princely palace and Formula 1 Grand Prix make Monaco a legendary destination.

14. Arles – 2000 years of history

A city of art and history, Arles combines Roman heritage with the legacy of Van Gogh. Its ancient arenas, Roman theatre and festivals make Arles a major cultural destination in Provence.

15. The Gorges du Verdon

Nicknamed the “European Grand Canyon”, the Gorges du Verdon (04120 Castellane, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) offer spectacular scenery. Its emerald waters and vertiginous cliffs make it a paradise for lovers of outdoor sports.

16. Hyères – City of palm trees

Hyères, the oldest of the French resorts, is an authentic Côte d’Azur. Its golden islands, exotic gardens and medieval heritage make it an unspoilt destination on the Riviera.

3. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: land of volcanoes and gastronomy

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes combines a unique volcanic heritage with gastronomic traditions. From snow-capped peaks to dormant craters, this region offers fascinating geological diversity.

17. Lyon – World capital of gastronomy

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to Lyon means discovering 2,000 years of urban history. Between the Saône and the Rhône, the city reveals its secret traboules, its authentic bouchons and its modern architecture.

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18. Annecy – Venice of the Alps

Nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”, a visit to Annecy is like sailing between canals and mountains. Its crystal-clear lake, medieval old town and colourful markets make it one of the most beautiful towns in France.

19. Chamonix – Cradle of mountaineering

As the world’s leading winter sports resort, visiting Chamonix means reaching for the stars from the Aiguille du Midi. This legendary valley offers breathtaking panoramic views of the giants of the Alps.

20. Clermont-Ferrand – The black diamond of Auvergne

Built from volcanic stone, a visit to Clermont-Ferrand reveals the soul of the Auvergne. Its black Gothic cathedral, historic districts and proximity to the Puys mountain range make it an authentic destination.

21. Grenoble – Capital of the Alps

Surrounded by three mountain ranges, a visit to Grenoble means discovering an innovative Alpine metropolis. Its urban cable cars, heritage and university vitality make it a unique city.

22. The Chaîne des Puys

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Chaîne des Puys (63870 Orcines, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) offers a volcanic landscape that is unique in Europe. Its 80 dormant volcanoes create a spectacular landscape in the heart of the Auvergne.

23. Mont-Blanc – Roof of Europe

Rising to 4807 metres, Mont-Blanc (74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) fascinates mountaineers the world over. This legendary mountain offers exceptional panoramic views from Chamonix’s cable cars.

24. Lake Annecy

The purest lake in Europe, Lake Annecy (74000 Annecy, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 28,000 reviews) dazzles visitors with the transparency of its waters. Surrounded by mountains, this Alpine jewel offers a wide range of water sports in an unspoilt setting.

25. Chambéry – Historic capital of Savoie

The former capital of the Dukes of Savoy, a visit to Chambéry reveals a refined Alpine heritage. Its medieval lanes, castle and covered alleys bear witness to a rich ducal past.

26. Lac du Bourget

The largest natural lake in France, Lac du Bourget (73100 Aix-les-Bains, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 6,000 reviews) inspired Lamartine and his romantic verses. Its thermal waters and Alpine shores make it an ideal wellness destination.

4. New Aquitaine: ocean and heritage

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the largest region in France, combines a wild Atlantic coastline with an exceptional architectural heritage. From the vineyards of Bordeaux to the beaches of the Landes, this region offers remarkable diversity.

27. Bordeaux – The sleeping beauty

As the world’s wine capital, a visit to Bordeaux is like navigating between heritage and modernity. Its UNESCO-listed 18th-century façades and renovated quaysides make Bordeaux one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

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28. La Rochelle – The white city

A former major Atlantic port, a visit to La Rochelle means discovering a preserved maritime city. Its medieval towers, arcades and old port make it one of the most beautiful coastal towns in France.

29. The Pilat Dune

The highest dune in Europe, the Dune du Pilat (33115 La Teste-de-Buch, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 25,000 reviews) is a breathtaking natural spectacle. This 110-metre-high mountain of sand dominates the Landes forest and the Arcachon basin.

30. Saint-Émilion

A medieval town in the heart of the vineyards, Saint-Émilion (33330 Saint-Émilion, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) combines exceptional heritage and winegrowing. Its underground passages, monolithic church and classified grands crus make it a jewel of the Gironde.

31. Biarritz – Queen of the beaches

An imperial seaside resort, a visit to Biarritz is a taste of the Basque art of living by the ocean. Its surf beaches, casino and Belle Époque architecture make it the pearl of the Basque coast.

32. The Lascaux Caves

The Sistine Chapel of prehistory, the Lascaux Caves (24290 Montignac, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) reveal the oldest cave art in the world. These 17,000-year-old cave paintings are fascinating in their artistic modernity.

33. Bayonne – Capital of the Basque Country

At the confluence of the Adour and Nive rivers, a visit to Bayonne is a discovery of the Basque soul. Its half-timbered houses, Gothic cathedral and bullfighting traditions all bear witness to a strong identity.

34. Périgueux – Gallo-Roman city

With a rich 2,000-year history, Périgueux (24000 Périgueux, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 3,000 reviews) boasts an exceptional Gallo-Roman heritage. Its domed Saint-Front cathedral and medieval historic centre will appeal to lovers of art and history.

35. L’Île de Ré

Nicknamed “Ré la Blanche”, the Île de Ré (17590 Ars-en-Ré, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 5,000 reviews) has a charming mix of fishing villages, salt marshes and fine sandy beaches. Its houses with colourful shutters and cycle paths make it an authentic paradise.

36. Bergerac – On the banks of the river Espérance

The birthplace of Cyrano, a visit to Bergerac reveals the soul of wine-growing Périgord. Its timber-framed houses, quays on the Dordogne and renowned vineyards make Bergerac an unmissable gourmet stop-off.

5. Occitanie: from the Mediterranean to the Pyrenees

Occitanie combines the mildness of the Mediterranean with the grandeur of the Pyrenees. This region with its exceptional Cathar heritage offers an incomparable wealth of cultural and natural attractions.

37. Toulouse – The pink city

As the European capital of aeronautics, a visit to Toulouse means discovering a dynamic metropolis with a well-preserved heritage. Its pink bricks, town houses and landscaped riverbanks are all part of the charm of this south-western city.

38. Montpellier – The gifted

As a Mediterranean student city, visiting Montpellier reveals a modern urbanity in a preserved historic setting. Its tramway, new districts and proximity to the sea appeal to a young, cosmopolitan population.

39. Carcassonne – The citadel of vertigo

As Europe’s largest fortified city, a visit to Carcassonne is like stepping into an unspoilt medieval setting. Its ramparts, towers and cobbled streets take you back to the world of the Cathar knights.

40. Nîmes – French Rome

As heir to the Roman Empire, a visit to Nîmes reveals some exceptional ancient monuments. Its arenas, the Maison Carrée and the Pont du Gard bear witness to the grandeur of Nemausus.

41. Albi – The red city

Albi is a UNESCO-listed episcopal city, with a dazzling cathedral-fortress and Toulouse-Lautrec heritage. Its pink bricks and its position on the river Tarn make it one of the most beautiful towns in the South-West.

42. The Pont du Gard

A masterpiece of Roman engineering, the Pont du Gard (30210 Vers-Pont-du-Gard, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 18,000 reviews) majestically spans the Gardon valley. This 49-metre-high ancient aqueduct is a testament to Roman architectural genius.

43. Perpignan – Catalan capital

At the crossroads between France and Catalonia, visiting Perpignan reveals a strong Mediterranean identity. Its Palace of the Kings of Majorca, its cathedral and its Catalan traditions make it a unique city.

44. Rodez – Land of character

Visiting Rodez and Aveyron means discovering unspoilt countryside and an exceptional heritage. The Millau viaduct, the Larzac limestone plateaux and the villages of character make this department a concentrate of authenticity.

45. Orange – Ancient Theatre

A city of art and history, a visit to Orange means reliving the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Its ancient theatre, the best preserved in Europe, and its triumphal arch transport you back to antiquity.

46. Narbonne – Rome’s first daughter

As the former capital of Narbonne Gaul, a visit to Narbonne reveals an exceptional ancient and medieval heritage. Its unfinished Gothic cathedral, Roman underground passages and authentic market bear witness to its rich history.

47. Montauban – The pinkest of pink towns

Montauban was France’s first fortified town, and its pink brick architecture is a delight to visit. Its Place Nationale with its perfect arcades and its Ingres museum make this Tarn-et-Garonne town a remarkable artistic destination.

6. Brittany: a land of legends

Brittany has a wild coastline, Celtic traditions and a unique megalithic heritage. This region of contrasting landscapes is fascinating for its unspoilt authenticity.

48. Rennes – Capital of Brittany

A dynamic university town, visiting Rennes combines historic heritage and modernity. Its timber-framed houses, its Parliament of Brittany and its cultural vitality make it an endearing regional capital.

49. Saint-Malo – Privateer city

A visit to Saint-Malo is like strolling along the ramparts facing the open sea. Its fortifications, spectacular tides and maritime heritage make Saint-Malo a unique destination.

50. Vannes – Pearl of Morbihan

As a medieval walled city, a visit to Vannes reveals an authentic Breton heritage. Its ramparts, half-timbered houses and proximity to the Gulf of Morbihan make it a must-see.

51. Brest – Capital of the oceans

As France’s leading military port, a visit to Brest is a plunge into the maritime world of Brittany. Its castle, arsenal and Océanopolis bear witness to its oceanic vocation.

52. Quimper – Capital of Cornouaille

A city of Breton art par excellence, a visit to Quimper reveals the Celtic soul of Brittany. Its Gothic cathedral, its earthenware factories and its well-preserved historic centre are all seductive in their authenticity.

53. Mont-Saint-Michel

The wonder of the West, Mont-Saint-Michel (50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 45,000 reviews) fascinates visitors with its unique silhouette. This abbey on a rocky islet, accessible at low tide, is one of the most visited sites in France.

54. The Alignements of Carnac

The largest megalithic site in the world, the Alignements de Carnac (56340 Carnac, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) have intrigued visitors for thousands of years. These 3,000 standing menhirs bear witness to a fascinating Neolithic civilisation.

55. The Pink Granite Coast

A geological landscape unique in the world, the Pink Granite Coast (22700 Perros-Guirec, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) reveals rocks sculpted by the elements. These pink granite chaos create an enchanting setting on the Brittany coast.

56. Dinan – Medieval town

A remarkably well-preserved medieval town, Dinan (22100 Dinan, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 6,000 reviews) transports you into the world of the knights. Its ramparts, half-timbered houses and port on the River Rance make Dinan a Breton jewel.

57. Belle-Île-en-Mer

The largest island in Brittany, Belle-Île-en-Mer (56360 Le Palais, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 7,000 reviews) has a wild and enchanting landscape. Its cliffs, secret coves and fishing villages make it an unspoilt natural paradise.

58. Pointe du Raz

Grand Site de France, the Pointe du Raz (29770 Plogoff, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 9,000 reviews) offers breathtaking ocean views. This Breton end of the world, battered by winds and sea spray, embodies the wild and authentic Brittany.

7. Normandy: a land of history

Normandy combines an exceptional historical heritage with spectacular coastlines. From the D-Day beaches to the cliffs of Étretat, this region bears witness to the great moments of history.

59. Rouen – City of a hundred steeples

As the historic capital of Normandy, a visit to Rouen is like travelling through 2,000 years of French history. Its Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses and the memory of Joan of Arc leave their mark on this thousand-year-old city.

60. Caen – City of William the Conqueror

The city of William the Conqueror, a visit to Caen reveals an exceptional ducal heritage. Its castle, Romanesque abbeys and Memorial bear witness to the city’s historic importance.

61. Le Havre – Porte océane

Rebuilt by Auguste Perret, a visit to Le Havre reveals a unique modern architecture, listed by UNESCO. This transatlantic port combines twentieth-century heritage with port dynamism.

62. The cliffs of Étretat

A symbol of Normandy, the Cliffs of Étretat (76790 Étretat, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) dazzle with their natural arches. These cathedrals of white chalk inspired Monet and the Impressionists.

63. Bayeux

A town of art and history, Bayeux (14400 Bayeux, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) is home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a unique testimony to the conquest of England. Its Gothic cathedral and historic centre will appeal to lovers of medieval art.

64. Honfleur

A charming Normandy port, Honfleur (14600 Honfleur, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) is enchanting with its Vieux Bassin and its narrow houses. This harbour town inspired the greatest Impressionist painters.

65. Deauville

The queen of Normandy’s seaside resorts, Deauville (14800 Deauville, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 10,000 reviews) embodies the elegance of the Belle Époque. Its boardwalk, casino and American film festival are world-famous.

66. Dieppe – Against all odds

As the Channel’s leading fishing port, a visit to Dieppe reveals an authentic maritime town. Its castle-museum, chalk cliffs and maritime traditions bear witness to the soul of Normandy.

67. The D-Day landing beaches

Universal places of remembrance, the D-Day landing beaches (14117 Arromanches-les-Bains, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 5,000 reviews) bear witness to the turning point of the Second World War. Omaha Beach, Juno Beach and their museums perpetuate the memory of 6 June 1944.

8. Grand Est: a European crossroads

The Grand Est combines French, German and European influences. This border region boasts a unique architectural heritage and exceptional wine-growing landscapes.

68. Strasbourg – European capital

As the seat of the European institutions, a visit to Strasbourg reveals a unique Franco-German city. Its Gothic cathedral, European quarter and Petite France bear witness to its continental influence.

69. Colmar – Capital of Alsace wines

The jewel of Alsace, visiting Colmar is like strolling through a fairytale setting. Its Little Venice, colourful half-timbered houses and art museums make Colmar a romantic destination.

70. Metz – 3000 years of history

A city of art and history, visiting Metz reveals an exceptional heritage. Its flamboyant Gothic cathedral, medieval quarters and the Centre Pompidou-Metz bear witness to its cultural dynamism.

71. Nancy – City of Stanislas

The capital of the Dukes of Lorraine, Nancy (54000 Nancy, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) dazzles visitors with its UNESCO-listed squares. Place Stanislas, an 18th-century masterpiece, makes Nancy one of the most beautiful cities in France.

72. Reims – Sacred City

The city where the kings of France were crowned, a visit to Reims means discovering the most finished Gothic cathedral. Its champagne houses, Art Deco heritage and royal history make it a must-see.

73. Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

A restored medieval fortress, Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg (67600 Orschwiller, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) dominates the Alsace plain from the top of the Vosges mountains. This fortified castle offers an exceptional panorama of the Alsace vineyards.

74. The Alsace Wine Route

The oldest wine route in France, the Route des Vins d’Alsace (68340 Riquewihr, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 6,000 reviews) winds its way through the most beautiful wine-producing villages. Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and their Renaissance houses make this an enchanting route.

75. Troyes

The former capital of the Champagne region, Troyes has a historic centre in the shape of a champagne cork. Its timber-framed houses, Gothic churches and art museums make Troyes a concentrate of Champagne heritage.

9. Hauts-de-France: between sea and history

Hauts-de-France combines industrial heritage, wild coastlines and Flemish artistic heritage. This border region reveals a strong identity between land and sea.

76. Lille – Capital of Flanders

A dynamic European metropolis, Lille combines Flemish heritage with modernity. Old Lille, with its baroque facades, its Grand-Place and its cultural vitality, is a must-see destination in the north.

77. Amiens – Heart of the Somme Valley

A city of art and history, Amiens boasts the largest cathedral in France. Its hortillonnages, historic districts and the legacy of Jules Verne make Amiens a major cultural destination.

78. The Bay of the Somme

The most beautiful bay in the world according to UNESCO, the Baie de Somme (80120 Fort-Mahon-Plage, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) offers unspoilt wild landscapes. Its seals, migratory birds and mullets make it an exceptional natural sanctuary.

79. Arras

A town of Flemish art, Arras (62000 Arras, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 5,000 reviews) has some of the most attractive Baroque squares in France. Its belfries, underground passageways and Great War heritage bear witness to the turbulent history of Flanders.

80. Compiègne – At the heart of history

As an imperial residence and a major historical site, a visit to Compiègne means reliving the great moments of French history. Its castle, forest and Armistice clearing are the hallmarks of this town in the Oise department.

81. Calais

As the gateway to France, a visit to Calais reveals a seaside town looking towards England. Its Bourgeois, immortalised by Rodin, its belfry and its beaches make Calais a town of character.

82. Dunkerque – City of Jean Bart

The historic port of Flanders, Dunkirk combines maritime heritage with modernity. Its carnival, museums and corsair past make Dunkerque an endearing northern town.

83. Laon – The crowned mountain

As a medieval upper town, a visit to Laon reveals one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in France. Its ramparts, underground passageways and medieval heritage make it a jewel of Picardy.

10. Pays de la Loire: the mildness of Anjou

Pays de la Loire combines the heritage of the Loire châteaux with the mildness of the ocean. This region of the Loire Valley reveals the French art of living in all its splendour.

84. Nantes – City of Dukes

The former capital of Brittany has become an Atlantic metropolis, and visiting Nantes combines ducal heritage with contemporary creativity. Its island machines, château and cultural districts make it an avant-garde destination.

85. Angers – The green city

As the historic capital of Anjou, a visit to Angers reveals an exceptional medieval heritage. Its fortified castle, the Apocalypse hanging and its gardens make Angers a jewel in the Loire Valley.

86. Le Mans

A city of art and history famous for its 24 Hours, Le Mans (72000 Le Mans, rated 4.0/5 on Google out of 6,000 reviews) is a remarkable medieval city. Its Gallo-Roman ramparts, cathedral and historic centre will appeal to heritage lovers.

87. Saumur

The pearl of Anjou, Saumur (49400 Saumur, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 4,000 reviews) charms visitors with its fairytale castle overlooking the Loire. Its troglodyte cellars, cavalry school and vineyards make it a must-see in the Loire Valley.

88. The Châteaux of the Loire

The jewels of the French Renaissance, the Châteaux de la Loire (37000 Tours, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) bear witness to the royal art of living. Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise and their architectural refinement make the Loire Valley an open-air museum.

11. Centre-Val de Loire: gardens of France

The Centre-Val de Loire, cradle of the French Renaissance, boasts sumptuous châteaux and formal gardens. This royal region embodies the French art of living.

89. Blois – Castle life in the Loire Valley

As a royal residence during the Renaissance, a visit to Blois means discovering four centuries of French architecture. Its castle with its contrasting facades, its gardens and its historic centre make Blois an essential stop-off on the Loire.

90. Bourges – Nothing is impossible with a valiant heart

The capital of Berry and former residence of Jacques Cœur, a visit to Bourges reveals an exceptional Gothic heritage. Its UNESCO-listed Saint-Étienne cathedral and Jacques-Coeur palace bear witness to the wealth of its medieval past.

91. Orléans

As the birthplace of Joan of Arc, a visit to Orléans is a journey through French history. Its Gothic cathedral, town houses and festivals make Orléans a major cultural destination in the Loire Valley.

92. Tours

As the capital of the Loire Valley, a visit to Tours reveals the art of living of the Loire châteaux. Saint-Gatien cathedral, the old town of Tours and its central location make it an ideal base for exploring the royal valley.

93. Chartres

A holy city of the Middle Ages, Chartres (28000 Chartres, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 11,000 reviews) dazzles visitors with its perfect Gothic cathedral. Its legendary stained glass windows, sculptures and labyrinth make Chartres an artistic pilgrimage not to be missed.

12. Burgundy-Franche-Comté: a land of vineyards and gastronomy

Burgundy-Franche-Comté combines prestigious vineyards with Burgundian heritage. This gastronomic region reveals the French art of living in all its sophistication.

94. Dijon – Capital of Burgundy

The former capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, a visit to Dijon reveals an exceptional ducal heritage. Its Palais des États, glazed roofs and prestigious vineyards make Dijon a major gastronomic destination.

95. Besançon – A history of time

A city of art and history on the meandering Doubs, Besançon is home to a UNESCO-listed Vauban citadel. Its watchmaking heritage, citadel and museums make Besançon one of the pearls of Franche-Comté.

96. Beaune

The capital of Burgundy wines, Beaune (21200 Beaune, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 9,000 reviews) is famous for its glazed-roofed Hospices. Its centuries-old cellars, prestigious vineyards and medical heritage make Beaune a Burgundian must-see.

97. Auxerre – Meeting Cadet Roussel

A city of art on the River Yonne, a visit to Auxerre reveals an exceptional religious heritage. Its Gothic cathedral, wine cellars and landscaped quays make Auxerre a charming stopover in Burgundy.

98. Dole – Birthplace of Louis Pasteur

As the former capital of Franche-Comté, a visit to Dole means discovering Pasteur’s birthplace. Its collegiate church, canals and Renaissance heritage make Dole an authentic Jura destination.

13. Corsica: an island of beauty

Corsica boasts stunningly beautiful landscapes between the sea and the mountains. This Mediterranean island offers a natural and cultural diversity that is unique in France.

99. Ajaccio – The imperial city

The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, a visit to Ajaccio reveals Corsica’s imperial soul. Its Napoleonic heritage, golden beaches and surrounding mountains make Ajaccio an authentic Mediterranean destination.

100. Bastia – The pearl of the Isle of Beauty

As the historic port of Cap Corse, a visit to Bastia means discovering an authentic Genoese city. Its Old Port, citadel and Baroque churches bear witness to Corsica’s rich Mediterranean past.

101. Bonifacio

Perched on its white limestone cliffs, Bonifacio (20169 Bonifacio, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 18,000 reviews) offers spectacular panoramic views over the Mediterranean. This fortified medieval town and its sea caves make Bonifacio a unique Corsican gem.

102. Porto-Vecchio

A city of salt with heavenly beaches, Porto-Vecchio (20137 Porto-Vecchio, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) combines Genoese heritage with dreamy shores. Its Palombaggia and Santa Giulia beaches rival the finest in the Caribbean.

103. The Calanques of Piana

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Calanques de Piana (20115 Piana, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 14,000 reviews) reveal striking natural sculptures. These red rocks plunging into the Mediterranean blue create a landscape that is unique in the world.

14. French overseas territories: tropical paradises

France’s Overseas Departments and Territories are a paradise in every corner of the world. These tropical pearls offer exceptional cultural and natural diversity under the French flag.

104. Fort-de-France – Welcome to Flower Island

As the capital of Martinique, a visit to Fort-de-France is a chance to discover the Creole soul of the French West Indies. Its colourful market, cathedral and tropical gardens reveal the cultural richness of the French Caribbean.

105. La Réunion

An intense island in the Indian Ocean, Réunion (97400 Saint-Denis, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) fascinates visitors with its active volcanoes and grandiose cirques. Its Piton de la Fournaise and tropical landscapes make it a paradise for nature lovers.

106. Guadeloupe

An archipelago in the Lesser Antilles, Guadeloupe (97100 Basse-Terre, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 6,000 reviews) boasts picture-postcard beaches and lush natural surroundings. Its sugar cane plantations and authentic Creole culture appeal to travellers.

107. French Guiana

A French Amazonian territory, French Guiana (97300 Cayenne, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 3,000 reviews) boasts the largest tropical forest in Europe. Its Kourou space centre and exceptional biodiversity make it a unique adventure destination.

15. Hidden treasures of France

As well as the top destinations, France also has some little-known treasures that are well worth a visit. These latest gems complete our tour of France’s most beautiful places to visit.

108. Le Puy-en-Velay

A holy town on its volcanic puys, Le Puy-en-Velay (43000 Le Puy-en-Velay, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 7,000 reviews) fascinates visitors with its religious heritage. As the starting point for the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, its UNESCO-listed monuments bear witness to medieval fervour.

109. Rocamadour

A sacred city clinging to its cliff, Rocamadour (46500 Rocamadour, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) dazzles visitors with its vertiginous position. This medieval pilgrimage site and its sanctuaries make Rocamadour a unique spiritual site.

110. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Perched on its cliff in the Lot, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (46330 Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 5,000 reviews) tops our selection of the most beautiful places in France. This medieval village with its golden stones majestically dominates the valley, offering a panorama of pure beauty over authentic France. Voted France’s favourite village, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie embodies the perfection of the French art de vivre, combining heritage and nature.

In conclusion, this selection of the 110 most beautiful places to visit in France reveals the incomparable wealth of our heritage. From luminous Paris to the hilltop villages of Quercy, from the wild Breton coastline to the Alpine peaks, each destination tells a story of the French soul. Whether you choose Navaway’s audioguided tours to explore these marvels or set off on your own adventure, these exceptional places promise unforgettable memories. France has plenty to surprise you! To organise your visits, don’t hesitate to consult our audioguide tours, which will help you discover these French treasures.

FAQ : The most beautiful places to visit in France

Which is the most beautiful region of France?

France is so diverse that it’s hard to name just one region. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur seduces with its Mediterranean landscapes, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes fascinates with its mountains and gastronomy, while Brittany charms with its authenticity. Each region has its own attractions to suit your preferences.

Which French sites are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

France has 45 UNESCO sites, including Mont-Saint-Michel, the Château de Versailles, Chartres Cathedral, the historic centre of Avignon, the banks of the Seine in Paris and the jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion. These sites represent the excellence of France’s world-renowned heritage.

How do you organise a tour of the most beautiful places in France?

To organise your trip, focus on tours by region, using the Navaway audioguide tours available in over 160 towns and cities. Plan according to season: spring for the châteaux of the Loire, summer for the Côte d’Azur, autumn for Burgundy. Allow at least 3-4 weeks for a complete tour.

What are the most beautiful villages in France?

The association “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” lists 164 exceptional villages. Not to be missed are Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot), Rocamadour (Lot), Collonges-la-Rouge (Corrèze), Riquewihr (Alsace) and Gordes (Provence). These unspoilt villages embody the authentic French art of living.

When is the best time to visit France?

You can visit France all year round, depending on what you want to do. Spring (April-June) offers ideal conditions with fewer tourists. Summer is perfect for outdoor activities. Autumn brings out the colours of the vineyards, while winter allows you to discover Christmas markets and Alpine ski resorts.