When it comes to France’s tourist attractions beyond Paris, the country reveals an entirely different side of its charm. If you’re planning to visit France’s attractions outside Paris in 2025, you’re in for a treat. While Paris boasts iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, the top 10 places to visit in France beyond Paris offer unique experiences you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re seeking scenic coastal towns in France, historic heritage sites, or lush wine regions, France has it all. This guide will take you through French countryside travel destinations, hidden gems in France, and the most beautiful regions, showcasing unmissable French destinations outside Paris.
To elevate your experience, we’ve included tips on where to stay near these popular destinations. Consider luxury vacation rentals to complete your perfect getaway in these stunning locations.
So, without further ado, get ready to create beautiful memories exploring the best tourist attractions in France that aren’t Paris in 2025.
Table of Content
Top 10 France Tourist Attractions Beyond Paris
When we think of France, we start dreaming of Paris. But is Paris really the only place to visit in France? Today, I will discuss 10 of the many other attractive places besides Paris that showcase the true diversity of this beautiful country. These hidden gems provide a unique glimpse into French culture, history, and natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Here are the 10 best places in France outside Paris, that should be on your bucket list in 2025.
1. Nice, France
The jewel of the French Riviera and one of the best coastal towns in France is Nice. Known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, Nice offers a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant city life. Its charming French villages and beautiful coastal regions of France make it a top choice for travelers seeking both history and beauty. This is ideal in the summer for beach lovers and those enjoying French cultural heritage sites.
Best Time to Go in Nice
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
May to October | Perfect for enjoying the beaches and warm weather. | Free to explore the beach, museums may charge fees. | Museums: 10 AM to 6 PM | No restrictions. |
Top Attractions in Nice
- Promenade des Anglais – The iconic seaside walkway offering stunning views of the Mediterranean.
- Castle Hill – This is a historic hilltop park with panoramic views of Nice and the coastline.
- Old Town – A charming maze of narrow streets with colorful buildings, shops, and cafes.
- Cours Saleya Market – A vibrant market featuring fresh flowers, local produce, and artisanal goods.
- Musée Matisse – This museum dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, is located in a serene setting.
- Place Masséna – This bustling central square is known for its striking architecture and fountains.
- Nice Cathedral – A stunning Baroque-style cathedral in the heart of Old Town.
- Marc Chagall National Museum – This is a museum that showcases an impressive collection of Chagall’s artwork.
- Blue Beach – One of Nice’s most popular private beaches for relaxing by the azure waters.
- Phoenix Park – A large botanical and zoological garden featuring diverse plants and animals.
Things to Do in Nice
- Relax at the Promenade des Anglais – Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along this famous seaside promenade, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and a lively atmosphere.
- Visit the Marc Chagall National Museum – Art lovers can appreciate the stunning collection of works by the renowned artist Marc Chagall, housed in a beautiful museum.
- Explore the Old Town – Wander through the colorful, narrow streets of Nice’s historic district, filled with local markets, cafes, and charming boutiques.
- Climb Castle Hill – For breathtaking views of Nice and the coastline, hike or take the lift to the top of Castle Hill, where you can also explore the ruins and lush gardens.
- Relax on the Beaches – Whether you prefer the pebbled beaches or the private beach clubs, Nice offers plenty of spots to unwind, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the French Riviera.
2. Menton, France
A peaceful gem, Menton is located along the French Riviera, often referred to as the “Pearl of France”. Its year-round sunny climate, picturesque streets, and historic sites in France beyond Paris make it a must-see destination.
Best Time to Go in Menton
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
February to March | The town’s famous lemon festival takes place during these months. | Free to walk around the town; festival fees may apply. | Festivals: 10 AM to 7 PM | Some areas may be crowded during the festival. |
Top Attractions in Menton
- Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange – A stunning Baroque church with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
- Jean Cocteau Museum – A tribute to the artist, showcasing his works in a modernist building by the sea.
- Old Town – A charming area with narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and quaint cafes.
- Jardin Serre de la Madone – A serene garden featuring exotic plants, water features, and shaded paths.
- Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden – A lush garden with rare plants and tropical species, perfect for nature lovers.
- Promenade du Soleil – A picturesque waterfront promenade ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
- Cemetery of the Old Château – Perched on a hill, this peaceful spot offers panoramic views of Menton and the sea.
- Palais Carnolès – A historic palace turned art museum, surrounded by a citrus garden.
- La Plage des Sablettes – A family-friendly beach with soft sand and calm waters.
- Marché des Halles – Menton’s covered market, bustling with fresh produce, local delicacies, and vibrant energy.
Things to Do in Menton
- Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum – Discover the art and works of the famous French artist, Jean Cocteau, in this unique museum located by the sea.
- Relax in the Jardins de Serre de la Madone – Stroll through this beautifully landscaped garden, filled with exotic plants and peaceful spots, perfect for nature lovers.
- Attend the Lemon Festival – If you visit in February, don’t miss the Lemon Festival, where the town is transformed with impressive citrus-themed sculptures and parades.
- Visit the Basilica of Saint Michael – Admire the baroque architecture of this stunning church located in the heart of Menton, with breathtaking views over the town and coastline.
- Enjoy the Beaches – Menton has beautiful pebbled beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
3. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is world-renowned for its wines and rich history. As one of the best French wine regions to visit, it offers countless vineyards, along with beautiful historic cities to visit in France outside Paris.
Best Time to Go in Bordeaux
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
April to October | Perfect for wine tours in France and enjoying outdoor festivals. | Entry fees vary by vineyard. | 9 AM to 7 PM | Make reservations for wine tastings. |
Top Attractions in Bordeaux
- Place de la Bourse and Water Mirror – A stunning square with a reflecting pool, perfect for photos.
- La Cité du Vin – A world-class wine museum offering interactive exhibits and wine tastings.
- Pont de Pierre – An iconic bridge spanning the Garonne River with scenic views.
- Saint-André Cathedral – A majestic Gothic cathedral with intricate architecture and historic significance.
- Rue Sainte-Catherine – The longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, lined with boutiques and cafes.
- Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux – A magnificent 18th-century opera house known for its grandeur and performances.
- Jardin Public – A peaceful public garden with a lake, walking paths, and a small museum.
- Les Bassins des Lumières – A unique digital art center housed in a former submarine base.
- Quais de Bordeaux – Riverside promenades are perfect for strolling, cycling, or relaxing by the Garonne.
- Pey Berland Tower – A bell tower offering panoramic views of the city from the top.
Things to Do in Bordeaux
- Visit La Cité du Vin – Wine enthusiasts will love this interactive museum dedicated to the history and culture of wine, offering tastings and immersive experiences.
- Stroll along the Garonne River – Walk or bike along the scenic riverfront, enjoying views of the city’s historic architecture and bridges, especially the Pont de Pierre.
- Relax in the Jardin Public – Escape to this peaceful park in the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll, picnic, or relaxing by the lake.
- Tour the Palais Rohan and Bordeaux City Hall – Visit the beautiful city hall, a historical building with stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Bordeaux’s past.
- Take a Wine Tour in the Vineyards – Bordeaux is famous for its wine, so consider taking a day trip to the surrounding vineyards like Saint-Emilion or Medoc for wine tasting and vineyard tours.
4. Mont Saint Michel, France
Mont Saint Michel is an iconic French landmark perched on a rocky island, making it one of the most beautiful towns in France to visit. Its medieval abbey and surrounding bay make it a must-see destination for history lovers.
Best Time to Go in Mont Saint Michel
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
April to October | Great for avoiding the winter crowds and enjoying the mild weather. | Entry to the Abbey costs approx. €10. | Abbey: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM | Tides can make access difficult, check schedules. |
Top Attractions in Mont Saint Michel
- Mont Saint-Michel Abbey – The iconic abbey perched atop the island, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views.
- The Ramparts – Walk along the medieval walls for breathtaking vistas of the bay and the surrounding area.
- The Bay of Mont Saint-Michel – Explore the tidal flats with guided tours to experience the natural beauty and shifting tides.
- La Grande Rue – The main street is lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.
- Eglise Saint-Pierre – A quaint parish church with a peaceful ambiance and historic artifacts.
- The Archéoscope – A multimedia exhibit that tells the fascinating history of Mont Saint-Michel.
- Maritime Museum – Discover the maritime history of Mont Saint-Michel and its unique tides.
- Tidal Viewing – Witness the dramatic rise and fall of some of the highest tides in Europe.
- Mont Saint-Michel Cemetery – A serene spot near the abbey, offering quiet reflection and views of the bay.
- The Causeway – Walk or take a shuttle across the causeway to admire the majestic approach to Mont Saint-Michel.
Things to Do in Mont Saint Michel
- Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel – Explore this iconic medieval abbey perched atop the island, with stunning architecture, chapels, cloisters, and panoramic views of the surrounding bay.
- Experience the Tides of Mont Saint-Michel – Witness the dramatic tides that transform the island, as it is connected to the mainland at low tide and surrounded by water at high tide. You can even join a guided walk on the bay during low tide.
- Visit the Museum of the History of Mont Saint-Michel – Learn about the rich history of the island, its abbey, and the evolution of the area through exhibits and displays at the museum.
- Admire the Views from the Terrace – Take in spectacular views of the island, the bay, and the nearby coastline from the terrace near the abbey’s entrance.
- Relax at Mont Saint-Michel Bay – Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the bay, with its ever-changing landscapes and birdlife, or take a boat tour for a different perspective of the island.
5. Marseille, France
A vibrant port city on the Mediterranean, Marseille is one of France’s iconic regions to visit outside Paris. It’s famous for its rich maritime history, multicultural atmosphere, and stunning coastal views.
Best Time to Go in Marseille
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
April to June | The weather is warm, and crowds are fewer than in peak summer. | Free to visit Old Port and public beaches. | Museums: 10 AM to 6 PM | Avoid the summer months if you dislike crowds. |
Top Attractions in Marseille
- Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde – A stunning basilica on a hill offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.
- Old Port – The heart of the city, lined with cafes, restaurants, and historic boats.
- MuCEM – A modern museum showcasing the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean region.
- Le Panier District – Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, known for its colorful streets, art galleries, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Château d’If – A fortress located on a small island, famous for its role in The Count of Monte Cristo.
- Calanques National Park – A natural wonder with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and beautiful hiking trails.
- Palais des Congrès – A grand palace offering exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.
- La Canebière – A historic avenue lined with shops, theaters, and iconic Marseille architecture.
- Fort Saint-Nicolas – A historic fortress with panoramic views of the city and the harbor.
- Césarée and the Château de la Buzine – A cultural and historical landmark showcasing Marseille’s cinema history.
Things to Do in Marseille
- Explore the MuCEM – Visit this modern museum that showcases the rich cultural history of the Mediterranean through fascinating exhibitions and beautiful architecture.
- Tour the Palais des Pharo – Visit this magnificent palace with stunning gardens and views over the Old Port. It’s one of the best places to relax and take in the scenery of Marseille.
- Walk Through Le Panier District – Get lost in the charming, colorful streets of Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, filled with art galleries, local shops, and picturesque streets.
- Relax at the Prado Beaches – Spend some time at one of Marseille’s best beaches, located along the scenic Prado coastline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic.
- Visit Château d’If – Take a boat to this historic fortress located on a small island, made famous by the novel The Count of Monte Cristo, where you can tour the prison and enjoy great views of the city and sea.
6. Provence, France
Provence is a region full of French heritage towns, lavender fields, and picturesque villages. The Best regions to visit in France for a peaceful retreat and scenic beauty.
Best Time to Go in Provence
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
May to September | The weather is perfect for exploring vineyards and lavender fields. | Free to visit lavender fields; some vineyards charge for tours. | 9 AM to 6 PM | Lavender fields peak in June-July. |
Top Attractions in Provence
- Pont du Gard – A stunning Roman aqueduct bridge and UNESCO World Heritage site, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities.
- Lavender Fields of Plateau de Valensole – Vibrant fields of lavender that bloom in summer, create a breathtaking landscape.
- Gorges du Verdon – A dramatic canyon often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe”, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and stunning views.
- Château des Baux-de-Provence – A medieval fortress perched on a hill, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Aix-en-Provence – A charming town known for its beautiful fountains, thermal springs, and elegant architecture.
- Côte d’Azur – The glamorous French Riviera, including destinations like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, with beaches, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
- Abbaye de Sénanque – A tranquil 12th-century Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields, offering a peaceful escape.
- Les Calanques National Park – A coastal park with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful hiking trails.
- Avignon and the Palais des Papes – A historic city home to the famous Palace of the Popes and a stunning medieval bridge.
- Arles and the Roman Amphitheater – A city steeped in history, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and its connection to Vincent van Gogh.
Things to Do in Provence
- Visit the Lavender Fields – If you’re visiting in the summer, take a trip to the stunning lavender fields around Valensole, Sault, and Plateau de Vaucluse. The vibrant purple fields are a sight to behold and offer fantastic photo opportunities.
- Tour the Historic Town of Avignon – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Avignon, home to the famous Palais des Papes and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet.
- Visit the Roman Ruins in Arles – Explore the well-preserved Roman ruins in Arles, including the Arles Amphitheatre, the ancient theater, and the Saint-Trophime Church, all contributing to the city’s rich history.
- Relax in the Luberon Villages – Spend a day exploring the picturesque hilltop villages of the Luberon region, such as Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux, known for their stunning views, cobblestone streets, and charming architecture.
- Hike in the Verdon Gorge – Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe”, the Verdon Gorge offers breathtaking views, thrilling hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking or rafting in the turquoise waters.
7. Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is famous for its stunning castles, including Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, making it one of France’s iconic regions to visit outside Paris.
Best Time to Go in Loire Valley
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
April to October | The weather is ideal for touring the castles and gardens. | Château entry fees: €10-€15. | 9 AM to 7 PM | Book tickets in advance for popular castles. |
Top Attractions in Loire Valley
- Château de Chambord – A grand Renaissance castle with unique architecture, extensive grounds, and a beautiful park.
- Château de Chenonceau – Known as the “Château des Dames”, this stunning castle spans the River Cher with elegant gardens.
- Château de Villandry – Famous for its beautifully landscaped gardens, including ornamental, water, and vegetable gardens.
- Château de Cheverny – A well-preserved Renaissance château, often associated with the Tintin comics, and surrounded by a lovely park.
- Cathedral of Saint-Gatien in Tours – A striking Gothic cathedral with impressive stained glass windows and intricate architecture.
- Clos Lucé – The last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, this charming castle features exhibits of his life and inventions.
- Château de Blois – A historic castle with a fascinating blend of architectural styles, where several French kings lived.
- Château d’Azay-le-Rideau – A fairytale-like castle set on an island in the Indre River, surrounded by stunning gardens.
- Vineyards of the Loire Valley – Renowned for wine production, the valley offers tours and tastings at wineries like those in Vouvray and Sancerre.
- The Village of Montargis – Known as the “Venice of the Gâtinais”, this village is famous for its canals, medieval bridges, and charming old town.
Things to Do in Loire Valley
- Visit the Château de Chambord – Explore this iconic Renaissance castle with its stunning architecture, vast grounds, and unique double-helix staircase. It’s one of the most famous castles in the Loire Valley.
- Tour Château de Chenonceau – Discover the elegant Château de Chenonceau, often called the “Château of the Ladies” due to the influential women who shaped its history. The castle spans the River Cher, offering a beautiful setting.
- Stroll Through the Villages of the Loire – Spend time exploring picturesque towns like Amboise, Blois, and Chinon, where cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and quaint cafés await you.
- Boating on the Loire River – Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Loire River, taking in the views of châteaux and the stunning landscape. You can opt for a traditional flat-bottomed boat for an authentic experience.
- Visit the Abbey of Fontevraud – Explore this historic abbey, one of the largest in Europe, which houses the tombs of several French kings and queens, including Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine.
8. Normandy, France
Normandy is home to historic World War II sites and the famous Mont Saint Michel, offering travelers a step back in time with its incredible monuments.
Best Time to Go in Normandy
Best Time to Visit | Why It’s Best | Entry Fees | Opening and Closing Times | Restrictions |
June to September | Perfect weather for visiting the beaches and historical sites. | Museums and sites: €5-€15. | 9 AM to 7 PM | Crowds increase during the summer months. |
Top Attractions in Normandy
- Mont Saint-Michel – The iconic island commune with a stunning abbey perched atop, offering breathtaking views and a unique history.
- D-Day Landing Beaches – The historic beaches where the Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944, including Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, and Juno Beach, with memorials and museums.
- American Cemetery – A solemn, beautifully maintained cemetery honoring the American soldiers who died during the D-Day landings.
- Étretat Cliffs – Dramatic white chalk cliffs with natural arches and stunning coastal views, perfect for hiking and photography.
- Rouen Cathedral – A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, famous for its intricate facade and historical significance.
- Honfleur – A picturesque harbor town known for its charming old port, cobbled streets, and the beautiful Saint Catherine’s Church.
- The Bayeux Tapestry – An incredible, UNESCO-listed 11th-century embroidery depicting the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England.
- Château de Caen – A massive medieval castle housing the Normandy Museum and the Fine Arts Museum, with great views of the city.
- Cider Route – A scenic drive through the Normandy countryside, dotted with apple orchards and cider producers where you can taste the region’s famous cider.
- The Abbey of Jumièges – A stunning, ancient abbey with ruins that evoke the region’s medieval past, set along the Seine River.
Things to Do in Normandy
- Visit Mont Saint-Michel – Explore the stunning Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in France, offering breathtaking views and a rich history.
- Tour the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial – Located above Omaha Beach, this cemetery is a poignant site dedicated to the thousands of American soldiers who lost their lives during the D-Day invasion.
- Relax in the Cliffs of Etretat – Take in the dramatic views of the white chalk cliffs and natural arches along the coast of Etretat. It’s a perfect spot for hiking or simply admiring the scenery.
- Visit the Château de Caen – Explore the Château de Caen, a medieval fortress built by William the Conqueror. It houses several museums, including the Caen Memorial Museum, which focuses on the history of World War II.
- Tour the Abbey of Saint-Wandrille – Visit the peaceful Abbey of Saint-Wandrille, located near the Seine, a quiet place for reflection and to appreciate its medieval architecture and beautiful grounds.
9. Alsace, France
Located in northeastern France, Alsace is known for its picturesque villages, vibrant vineyards, and a unique blend of French and German cultures. The region is particularly famous for its half-timbered houses, Christmas markets, and Riesling wine.
Best Time to Go in Alsace
Best Time | Why This Time | Entry Fees | Opening/Closing Times | Restrictions |
May to October | Perfect for exploring the vineyards and scenic villages. | Free to roam villages; wine tours cost around €10–€30. | Wine cellars usually open 9 AM to 6 PM. | Some events are seasonal, like Christmas markets in December. |
Top Attractions in Alsace
- Colmar – A picturesque town with charming canals, colorful half-timbered houses, and the famous Unterlinden Museum.
- Strasbourg Cathedral – A stunning Gothic cathedral known for its intricate facade and panoramic views from the tower.
- La Route des Vins d’Alsace – A scenic wine route that winds through beautiful villages and vineyards, offering wine tastings and views of the Vosges Mountains.
- Riquewihr – A medieval village that seems frozen in time, with cobblestone streets and well-preserved Renaissance houses.
- Eguisheim – A charming circular village surrounded by vineyards, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle – A stunning hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the Alsace plain and a look into the region’s history.
- Kaysersberg – A picturesque village with a medieval castle, quaint streets, and lovely vineyards.
- Mont Sainte-Odile – A beautiful mountain with a historic convent, offering great hiking opportunities and sweeping views.
- The Alsace Wine Museum – Located in the town of Sigolsheim, this museum offers insights into the region’s rich wine culture.
- Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges – A large regional park offering hiking, nature walks, and breathtaking views of the Vosges Mountains and forests.
Things to Do in Alsace
- Tour the Wine Route – Drive or bike along the famous Alsace Wine Route, dotted with vineyards and charming villages like Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim. Stop for wine tastings to enjoy Alsace’s famous white wines, especially Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
- Visit Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg – Explore this impressive medieval castle, perched high above the Alsace plain. Offering stunning panoramic views, the Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a must-see for history lovers and those seeking incredible photo opportunities.
- Visit the Musée Alsacien in Strasbourg – Learn about the rich cultural heritage of Alsace at this museum, which showcases traditional Alsatian life through folk art, costumes, furniture, and regional crafts.
- Take a Boat Tour of Strasbourg’s Canals – Explore Strasbourg from a different perspective with a boat tour through its historic canals. This offers a peaceful way to see the city’s iconic sights, including La Petite France and the European Parliament.
- Tour the Château de Fleckenstein – Visit this fascinating medieval ruin in the Northern Vosges. The castle offers interactive exhibits and beautiful hikes through the surrounding forest.
10. Dordogne, France
In southwestern France, Dordogne is celebrated for its stunning countryside, prehistoric cave art, medieval castles, and delectable cuisine featuring truffles and foie gras.
Best Time to Go in Dordogne
Best Time | Why This Time | Entry Fees | Opening/Closing Times | Restrictions |
April to September | Great weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. | Caves and castles charge €6–€15. | Attractions open 10 AM to 7 PM. | Crowds peak in July and August. |
Top Attractions in Dordogne
- Lascaux Caves – Famous for its prehistoric cave paintings, Lascaux is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into ancient art.
- Château de Beynac – A well-preserved medieval castle offering panoramic views over the Dordogne River and the surrounding countryside.
- Sarlat-la-Canéda – A beautifully preserved medieval town with narrow streets, golden stone buildings, and lively markets.
- Les Jardins de Marqueyssac – A stunning garden with manicured boxwood hedges, set atop a cliff with sweeping views of the Dordogne Valley.
- Domme – A picturesque bastide town with breathtaking views over the Dordogne River, perfect for strolling and exploring medieval architecture.
- Château de Castelnaud – A 12th-century castle with interactive exhibits on medieval warfare, offering great views over the Dordogne River.
- La Roque-Gageac – A charming village nestled between cliffs and the Dordogne River, known for its picturesque stone houses and botanical garden.
- The Vézère Valley – A UNESCO-listed valley known for its prehistoric sites, including cave paintings, ancient dwellings, and archeological sites.
- Grotte de Proumeyssac – A beautiful cavern known as the “Crystal Cathedral”, featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Bergerac – A historic town famous for its vineyards, wine-tasting tours, and charming old town with a nod to Cyrano de Bergerac.
Things to Do in Dordogne
- Visit the Lascaux Caves – Explore the famous Lascaux Caves, home to some of the world’s most well-preserved prehistoric cave paintings. The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and provide a fascinating glimpse into early human history.
- Tour the Château de Beynac – Visit this imposing fortress perched above the Dordogne River. Château de Beynac offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a rich history, with exhibits showcasing medieval life.
- Kayaking on the Dordogne River – Experience the stunning beauty of the Dordogne Valley by canoe or kayak. Paddle along the river, passing through picturesque villages, lush forests, and limestone cliffs.
- Visit the Village of Domme – Discover the stunning hilltop village of Domme, with its medieval architecture, picturesque streets, and incredible views over the Dordogne River. Don’t miss the panoramic viewpoint from the Porte des Tours.
- Take a Boat Trip on the Dordogne River – Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Dordogne River. These trips offer a peaceful way to see the region’s beautiful scenery, including castles, cliffs, and lush greenery.
What to Do Before Going to France
Before you head off to France travel destinations, there are a few things you should prepare to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here’s your pre-trip checklist –
- Check Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter France. Make sure to check the latest visa requirements before booking your flights.
- Plan Your Itinerary: With so many amazing places to visit in France beyond Paris, it’s crucial to prioritize your must-see destinations. Whether it’s the wine regions of Bordeaux or the coastal towns of the French Riviera, knowing where you’re going will help you manage your time better.
- Learn Basic French Phrases: While many people in France speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in French can enhance your experience. Simple greetings like “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Merci” (Thank you) go a long way.
- Research the Weather: France’s weather can vary depending on the region and time of year. Pack appropriately based on the season and the areas you’re visiting.
- Check Health & Travel Insurance: Ensure that you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings during your trip.
- Book Accommodation: Secure your accommodations in France in advance, especially in popular cities like Lyon or Nice, to avoid last-minute surprises.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to travel to France in 2025, there’s no shortage of extraordinary destinations beyond Paris. These 10 destinations in France beyond Paris offer a perfect blend of history, culture, beauty, and unique experiences. From the breathtaking lavender fields of Provence to the historic charm of Lyon, France has much more to offer than just Paris.
By venturing outside the capital, you’ll uncover a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or on a romantic getaway, France tourist attractions beyond Paris will captivate your heart. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and diversity of France’s regions outside Paris!
FAQs
France is full of breathtaking regions to explore, from the French Riviera (Nice, Menton) to the Loire Valley (Châteaux) and Provence for its lavender fields. Bordeaux and Lyon are also great alternatives for wine lovers and foodies.
Yes, France is considered safe for solo female travelers, especially in well-touristed areas. Just follow general safety practices, like staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding overly isolated spots at night.
Many consider Provence and Mont Saint Michel to be the prettiest places in France, with their stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
Cities like Lyon, known for its food culture, and Nice, with its Mediterranean charm, are often considered just as remarkable as Paris, each offering something unique.
Absolutely! France offers a variety of activities for families, from interactive museums and parks to beautiful beaches and adventure parks in regions like the French Riviera and Loire Valley.
It depends on what you’re seeking! For history and wine, the Loire Valley is perfect. For coastal beauty and relaxation, the French Riviera is ideal. For culture and food, Lyon stands out.
Lyon is often considered the best city after Paris due to its rich cultural heritage, delicious food scene, and stunning architecture.
Yes, France is generally safe for night travel, especially in well-populated areas like Paris, Nice, and Lyon. However, always take precautions, particularly in more secluded places.
Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps,” is a picturesque town in southeastern France, known for its crystal-clear lake, mountain views, and medieval old town.
Consider visiting Nice for its beaches, Bordeaux for wine, Lyon for food, Provence for lavender fields, and Normandy for its historical sites.
More Related Blogs From Travel Recommendations
