Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by April | Dreaming in French
It’s easy to fall in love with the country of France, especially after seeing some of the most beautiful French cities!
There are several world-class cities in France, from the bustling ports of Marseille to the cutting-edge gastronomy of Lyon. (And do we really need to tell you on Paris’ limitless charms?) But France’s villages and tiny towns equal any bustling city in terms of beauty, with their hilltop views, flower-lined canals, and pastel, half-timbered buildings that seem to have stepped out of a children’s book.
What’s keeping you from visiting any of these little communes, which even have access to some of the greatest ski slopes in France and hotels with Michelin stars and awards? Here, I’ve compiled a list of the 19 most beautiful French cities in France, along with things to do in (or close to) each place.
I promise you’ll have a new village (or two) to add to your next France itinerary, whether your objective is to drink your way through Bordeaux or swim off the renowned beaches of Corsica.
👉 READ NEXT: Day Trips from Paris: 14 Fantastic Trips by Train
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. Merci!
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the most beautiful French cities:
The Most Beautiful French cities
These are the most beautiful French cities, ranging from the finest cities in Loire Valley to gorgeous French countryside settlements!
Gordes
Nestled in the Luberon Valley of Southern France, Gordes is a picturesque hilltop town that will absolutely steal your heart away. With its terraced houses, medieval castle ruins, and breathtaking views of the Provencal countryside, Gordes is truly a photographer’s dream.
But Gordes is more than just a pretty face; it’s also a great place to enjoy the slower pace of life in France. Stroll through the town’s narrow streets, pop into the cute shops and cafes, and chat with the friendly locals. If you’re visiting in the springtime, don’t miss the famous lavender fields in the area – they’re simply stunning!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, Gordes is the perfect spot for your next escape to France.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN GORDES
- Tour the Abbey of Sénanque. This Cistercian Abbey is a must-see when visiting Gordes, France. The Abbey dates back to the 12th century and is beautiful both inside and out.
- Take in the views from the Château de Gordes. This hilltop castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gordes. The castle offers stunning views of the countryside and is definitely worth a visit.
- Sample the local cuisine. Gordes is known for its mouthwatering food. Be sure to try the region’s famous lavender honey and olive oil.
Metz
Metz, a charming place brimming with lovely flowerbeds and picturesque gardens, is located in the northeastern Grand Est region. A leisurely stroll along one of the many miles of riverfront paths offers beautiful views of the Moselle and Seille rivers.
Metz has one of France’s most gorgeous train stations, both inside and out. The primary cathedral, Saint Stephen, is an outstanding piece of architecture and is especially lovely at night when its stained glass windows put on a spectacular display.
Metz enjoys its festivals, particularly those that incorporate sculptures: the Mirabelle Plum Festival in August features floral sculptures, and the Christmas market hosts a lovely festival of ice sculptures.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN METZ
- Stroll through Place d’Armes. The main square in Metz is beautiful and full of restaurants and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint-Etienne. The Gothic cathedral is one of the most beautiful in France and is definitely worth a visit.
- Take a walk along the Moselle River. The river is lovely to walk along and offers gorgeous views of the city.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
If there is one French Riviera town that will absolutely steal your heart away, it is Villefranche-sur-Mer. Tucked into a sheltered bay with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, this town has everything you could ever want in a romantic getaway. From its charming streets lined with colorful buildings to its gorgeous beachfront promenade, Villefranche-sur-Mer is simply impossible to resist.
But what really makes Villefranche-sur-Mer so special is its atmosphere. There is a feeling of happiness and relaxation that pervades the entire town, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you stroll along the promenade hand in hand with your loved one or simply enjoy a glass of rosé at a café with a view, you will fall in love with Villefranche-sur-Mer.
So if you are looking for a French Riviera town that will take your breath away, look no further than Villefranche-sur-Mer. Its charm, beauty, and atmosphere are sure to win you over and make you fall head over heels in love.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-MER
- Explore the Old Town: Villefranche-sur-Mer’s Old Town is a beautiful, historic place to explore. Wander the winding streets and Browse the shops.
- Relax on the beach. Villefranche-sur-Mer has a lovely beach where you can relax and soak up the sun.
- Take a boat ride. A boat ride is a great way to see the town and the surrounding area. There are many companies that offer boat tours of the area.
Colmar
There is something special about Colmar. Perhaps it is the way the timbered houses seem to huddle together, as though they are sharing secrets. Or maybe it is the way the canals meander through the town, reflecting the sunlight in a thousand different colors. Whatever the reason, Colmar has a charm that is hard to resist.
This beautiful French town is located in the Alsace region of France, close to the border with Germany. It is the perfect place to explore the beauty of the French countryside, as well as the fascinating history of the region. Colmar has a rich historical heritage, dating back to the Middle Ages. This is evident in the well-preserved old town, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings.
One of the highlights of a visit to Colmar is the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former monastery. The museum contains a remarkable collection of art, including works by Albrecht Dürer and Matthias Grünewald. Other highlights include the beautiful La Petite Venise, a canal district lined with pretty houses, and the Cathédrale Saint-Martin, a Gothic cathedral with a stunning stained glass window.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN COLMAR
- Visit la Petite Venise – Colmar’s very own Little Venice!
- Visit the Unterlinden Museum – one of the most important museums in Alsace, the Unterlinden Museum houses works by masters such as Dürer, Grünewald and Holbein.
- Stroll through the old town – Colmar’s old town is a beautiful well-preserved medieval town, with half-timbered houses and cobbled streets.
- Take a boat trip on the scenic Rhine River – Colmar is located on the Rhine River, making it the perfect place to take a boat trip and enjoy the scenery.
Honfleur
Honfleur is one of those rare towns that seems to have been pulled straight out of a postcard. With its picturesque setting on the Normandy coast, Honfleur is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
One of the most notable features of Honfleur is its harbor. The harbor is home to a number of traditional wooden sailing boats, which add to the town’s charming atmosphere. Visitors can take a boat tour of the harbor, or simply enjoy the view from one of the many cafés and restaurants that line the waterfront.
In addition to its natural beauty, Honfleur is also home to a number of important historical landmarks. The Church of Notre Dame de Grace, for example, dates back to the 14th century. The Church of St. Catherine, meanwhile, is one of the oldest churches in France, and is well worth a visit for its stunning architecture.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN HONFLEUR
- Visit the Le Vieux Bassin – this is the old harbor of Honfleur and is a beautiful place to admire the traditional French boats
- Visit the Musee de la Marine to learn about Honfleur’s maritime history
- Stay in a traditional French inn – Honfleur has many charming inns that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
- Wander Honfleur’s streets that are lined with wonderful half-timbered houses, art galleries and shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Take a day trip to the nearby D-Day beaches
Annecy
Annecy is a picturesque town in the heart of the French Alps, known for its stunning natural scenery and charming old-world architecture. With its winding canals, quaint cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings adorned with flower boxes, Annecy feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. But beyond its postcard-perfect appearance lies a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages.
One of Annecy’s most striking features is Lake Annecy, which sits at the foot of snow-capped mountains and is often referred to as Europe’s cleanest lake. A stroll along its shores offers breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. The Château d’Annecy, a 12th-century castle perched atop a hill overlooking the town, provides another glimpse into Annecy’s past.
But despite its medieval roots, there’s no shortage of modern amenities in this bustling town. Visitors can enjoy shopping at chic boutiques or sampling local cuisine at one of Annecy’s many acclaimed restaurants.
Whether you’re looking to soak up some culture or simply relax in nature’s beauty, Annecy has something for everyone – making it an essential stop on any tour through France’s enchanting countryside.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN ANNECY
- Annecy is known for its beautiful mountain views and fresh air. What better way to experience this than by taking a boat ride on the lake?
- The old town of Annecy is full of charming streets and historic buildings. There are many shops and restaurants to explore, as well as a number of museums.
- Visit the Château de Annecy, this imposing castle overlooking the town is one of Annecy’s most iconic landmarks.
- Go for a swim in Lac d’Annecy. Annecy is nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps” due to its numerous canals and lakes. Take a dip in the water or go for a paddle in a kayak or canoe.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Nestled in the hills of Provence, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque medieval village with cobblestone streets and stunning views. The town is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and charming cafes that are perfect for an afternoon stroll.
One of the highlights of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is its impressive collection of art museums. The Maeght Foundation houses works by famous artists such as Joan Miró and Alexander Calder, while the Fondation Emile Hugues showcases contemporary art.
For those seeking adventure, take a hike up to the nearby hilltop village of St-Jeannet or explore the surrounding countryside on horseback.
At dusk, head to one of Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s many rooftop bars for a glass of wine and watch as the sun sets over this enchanting town. Whether you’re looking for culture or relaxation, Saint-Paul-de-Vence has something to offer everyone who visits it.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a medieval town, and its streets are lined with historic buildings. Take a wander and soak up the atmosphere.
- The town is home to a number of art galleries, as well as the Foundation Maeght, which has an impressive collection of art on display.
- For sweeping views over Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the surrounding countryside, head to the top of the Tour des Pénitents, a 12th-century tower.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence is renowned for its gastronomy, so be sure to try some of the local specialities such as Soupe au Pistou (vegetable soup) and dishes featuring fresh herbs from the town’s markets.
- The main square in the town is a great place to relax and people watch.
Toulouse
After Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France. Along with the Garonne River and Canal du Midi, which flank it, Toulouse is renowned for its art, culture, and history.
Toulouse, often known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City), is a city that has a village-like atmosphere in the town center and is extremely walkable for tourists. Many of its buildings are constructed from pink bricks. Toulouse is a terrific holiday location because there are so many amazing things to do there.
Toulouse, like many other European cities, is filled with top-notch museums that you may visit. You cannot visit Toulouse or any other region of France without indulging in some excellent French gourmet cuisine, for which France is renowned worldwide.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN TOULOUSE
- Toulouse’s old town is a UNESCO world heritage site and is full of charming streets and beautiful buildings.
- Visit the Basilica of St. Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe and is a must-see for any history or architecture lover.
- See the Capitole de Toulouse, the 18th-century building houses the Toulouse city hall and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
- Stroll along the Canal du Midi, this man-made canal is a great place to relax, go for a walk or a bike ride, and enjoy the scenic views.
- Visit the Musée des Augustins, this art museum is home to a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Menton
Menton, also known as the “Pearl of France,” is a stunning town located on the French Riviera. With its colorful buildings and vibrant gardens, Menton exudes charm and elegance. The town has a rich history dating back to ancient times, which is reflected in its architecture and cultural offerings.
One of the highlights of Menton is its famous Lemon Festival, held every year in February. During this festival, Menton’s streets come alive with elaborate citrus-themed sculptures and parades.
Another must-see attraction in Menton is the Jardin Serre de la Madone botanical garden. This lush oasis boasts rare plant species from around the world and offers visitors breathtaking views of both the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
For those who love hiking or outdoor activities, Menton also has plenty to offer. Its rugged coastline provides ample opportunities for cliff jumping or sea kayaking while nearby trails lead hikers through stunning natural landscapes.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN MENTON
- Menton has some of the most beautiful beaches in France, perfect for relaxing with a book or taking a swim.
- Menton is famous for its markets, which are a great place to find fresh produce, French delicacies, and souvenirs.
- Menton’s Old Town is full of charming streets and beautiful buildings, making it a great place to explore on foot.
- Situated atop a hill, Saint-Michel offers stunning views of Menton and the surrounding area.
- This museum celebrates the work of French artist Jean Cocteau, and is housed in the beautiful Villa Auriac.
Étretat
Framed by cliffs that rise almost vertically from the sea, Étretat is a small town located in Normandy, France. Though its population is only around 2,000 people, this town is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty.
The cliffs at Étretat have been created over millions of years by the erosion of the soft rock that they are made of. The most well-known of these cliffs is the one known as “l’Aiguille” or “the Needle”, which is a needle-like rock formation that stands alone just offshore.
Viewing the cliffs from the beach is a popular activity, but there are also a number of hikes that can be taken to get different perspective of the landscape. For those who are feeling adventurous, there is even rock climbing that can be done.
If you are looking for a charming town to visit that is off the beaten path, Étretat is the perfect place for you. With its stunning natural scenery and friendly atmosphere, it is sure to steal your heart away.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN ÉTRETAT
- The cliffs of Étretat are a sight to behold. These towering limestone formations have been sculpted over time by the wind and waves, and are a photographer’s paradise.
- The Étretat lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. Built in 1826, it stands at over 100 feet tall and offers sweeping views of the coastline.
- Étretat is home to several lovely beaches. Whether you want to lounge on the sand or search for treasures in the tide pools, there’s a beach for you.
- Étretat is known for its fresh seafood. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like coquilles Saint-Jacques (scallops) and sole meunière (sole with lemon and butter sauce).
Strasbourg
Strasbourg successfully integrates French and Germanic culture as it straddles the German border. The European Parliament is located in the French city, which also has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
Strasbourg has remained French since the end of World War One. The Alsace region’s distinctive history, however, is a significant component of the community’s culture. La Petite France, a historic district, is located on an island in the middle of Strasbourg, a city that has been inhabited for 2000 years.
The ornate Kammerzell House and France’s second-most-visited cathedral are among the country’s other major attractions. Unsurprisingly, the local cuisine is excellent, combining the best of both worlds to please the palate.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN STRASBOURG
- The Strasbourg Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city. It is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Europe and its beauty is simply breathtaking.
- The Petite France district is one of the most picturesque areas in Strasbourg. It is full of beautiful half-timbered houses and you can even see the canals that run through the district.
- Visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the largest and most famous
- The Rhine River runs through Strasbourg and taking a cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can even take a cruise all the way to the neighbouring country of Germany.
Cassis
Cassis is a charming fishing village located on the Mediterranean coast of France. The town boasts colorful houses and narrow streets that lead to the picturesque harbor where boats bob up and down in the turquoise waters. Cassis is perhaps best known for its stunning Calanques, rocky cliffs that jut out from the sea creating hidden coves with crystal clear water perfect for swimming or kayaking.
The town also has an abundance of vineyards producing some of France’s finest wines, including its famous white wine. Visitors can take a tour of these wineries and sample some of their delicious blends while taking in breathtaking views over the coastline.
If you’re looking for adventure, Cassis is home to numerous hiking trails that offer panoramic vistas over the sea and surrounding landscape. One popular trail leads hikers through dense pine forests to reach secluded beaches only accessible by foot or boat.With its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder Cassis has become a beloved destination among travelers seeking an authentic taste of French culture.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN CASSIS
- Wind your way through the narrow streets of the old town, stopping to admire the well-preserved facades of the ancient buildings.
- For breathtaking views of the Bay of Cassis, hike to the top of Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in Europe.
- Cassis is renowned for its white wines, so be sure to visit some of the vineyards and wineries in the area to sample the local offerings.
- The dramatic limestone cliffs of the Calanques along Cassis’ coast are a must-see. Go for a hike or a swim in one of the sheltered coves.
- The best way to see the Calanques is from the water, so take a boat tour around the bay for some incredible views.
Chamonix
Chamonix is a picture-perfect alpine town and the location of Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in Western Europe. The renowned town, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, is filled with a variety of chalet-style buildings as well as both historic and new construction.
Even though you might spend all day exploring the spotless streets, you’ll quickly become inspired by the surrounding scenery, particularly the imposing Mont Blanc. 15,777 feet are above sea level at its summit. The mountain continues to be on people’s bucket lists despite offering a difficult and challenging ascent.
There is lots of entertainment in the area that is suitable for such a place. Go whitewater rafting, ski the longest run in Europe, or ride the Alpine Coaster to the bottom of the mountain.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN CHAMONIX
- Take a cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi for breathtaking views of the Alps.
- Ski or snowboard at one of the world-famous ski resorts.
- Go for a hike or a walk in the Mont Blanc massif.
- Explore the glaciers and ice caves of the Vallee Blanche.
Èze
Èze is a stunning medieval village located in the French Riviera that will leave you speechless with its spectacular views. Tucked away in the hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this charming town has preserved its historic architecture and traditional way of life.
One of the most notable landmarks in Èze is the Jardin Exotique d’Èze, a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and succulents from around the world. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.
As you wander through Èze’s narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful flowers and quaint boutiques, it’s easy to get lost in its enchanting atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of cozy cafés where you can sip on espresso or indulge in some delicious French pastries while taking in your surroundings.
For those interested in history, be sure to visit Èze’s 12th-century castle ruins perched high on a hilltop above the village. The castle was once home to wealthy families during medieval times but now serves as an important historical site for tourists to explore.
If you’re looking for a charming French town to steal your heart away, Èze is definitely worth a visit.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN ÈZE
- Visit the ancient Èze village, perched high on a hilltop with stunning views of the French Riviera.
- Take a walk or bike ride along the Èze Sur Mer cliffs, with beautiful Mediterranean Sea views.
- Visit the Jardin Exotique d’Èze, a unique cactus and succulent gardens.
- Shop for local souvenirs and gifts in the quaint shops of Èze.
- Try the delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
6.sample the local wines from the Èze vineyards.- Relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Èze!
Lille
In the north of France, close to the Belgian border, sits Lille, a beautiful city. It is a cultural center with several museums and beautiful buildings, serving as the Hauts-de-France region’s capital. Additionally, it is a vibrant university city.
With Gothic cathedrals, a stunning historic old town called Vieux Lille, exquisite 17th century brick townhouses, cobbled pedestrian streets, and a sizable center square, the Grand Place, Lille has a lot to offer.
The fact that Lille is home to France’s second-largest fine arts museum after the Louvre is a fantastic reason to go, especially for art aficionados. You should try the Carbonade Flamande and moules frites while you’re there because they have a strong Flemish influence.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN LILLE
- Home to a beautiful collection of Flemish architecture, the Old Town is a great place to start your exploration of Lille. Be sure to visit the Grand Place, a large public square that is the center of the Old Town.
- One of the largest museums in France, the Palais des Beaux-Arts contains an impressive collection of art, ranging from ancient sculptures to modern paintings.
- Held every Sunday, the Wazemmes Market is a great place to find fresh produce, cheeses, and other local specialties.
Mont-Saint-Michel
Rising out of the sparkling waters of the English Channel, Mont-Saint-Michel is a small island commune that is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in all of France. The Normandy region’s most popular tourist attraction, this medieval Benedictine abbey sits atop a rocky outcropping and is only accessible during low tide.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont-Saint-Michel has been attracting pilgrims and tourists for centuries with its ethereal beauty. The abbey itself is a work of art, and the island is surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can explore the island’s many nooks and crannies, including the atmospheric Abbey, the old town with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, and the ramparts which offer breathtaking views of the coastline.
There is also a great range of shops and restaurants on the island, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring. With its picturesque setting and rich history, it’s no wonder that Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN MONT-SAINT-MICHEL
- Marvel at the architecture of this World Heritage Site that’s over a thousand years old
- Admire the quaint half-timbered houses and cobbled streets
- Take in the breathtaking scenery of Brittany’s coastline from up high
- Taste the delicious creamy Norman cheese and fresh seafood dishes
- Make sure to say hello (and maybe give a carrot or two) to one of the friendly donkeys that live on the island
Saint-Émilion
Saint-Émilion is a charming medieval town located in the heart of Bordeaux wine region. The town’s picturesque streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants that serve delectable cuisine and locally produced wines. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets while admiring the impressive Romanesque architecture of the buildings.
One of Saint-Émilion’s main attractions is its underground catacombs where visitors can explore over 200 kilometers of tunnels carved into limestone rock. These tunnels were originally used as quarries to build the town but later became an essential part of Saint-Émilion’s wine-making process.
Saint-Émilion boasts some of France’s most prestigious vineyards producing world-renowned wines such as Château Cheval Blanc and Château Angelus. Wine-tasting tours are available all year round, giving visitors a chance to indulge in some of France’s finest wines while taking in breathtaking views from atop hillside vineyards.
Whether you’re an oenophile or simply seeking for a quiet getaway, Saint-Émilion offers something for everyone—rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food & wine culture—that will undoubtedly steal your heart away!
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN SAINT-ÉMILION
- Saint-Émilion is home to some of the world’s most famous vineyards. There are over 60 different growers in the area and you can visit many of them for free.
- In addition to the vineyards, there are also numerous wineries in Saint-Émilion that offer tours and tastings.
- Saint-Émilion is known for its food as much as its wine. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties like foie gras, confit de canard, and duck breast.
- The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is full of charming cobbled streets and medieval houses.
- The massive Monolithic Church is one of the most impressive sights in Saint-Émilion. Carved out of a single
Equisheim
Eguisheim, located in the Alsace region of France, is one of the most beautiful cities that will transport you back to medieval times. Its cobblestone streets wind around brightly colored half-timbered houses adorned with flowers and plants. The town’s central square is filled with delightful cafes and restaurants serving traditional Alsatian cuisine.
The most striking feature of Eguisheim is its circular layout, which dates back to the 13th century. The narrow streets are arranged in concentric circles around a castle hilltop on which sits the Chateau Saint-Leon. Visitors can climb up to the top of this landmark for panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Eguisheim is famous for its wine production, especially for its white wines made from grapes grown on nearby slopes such as Riesling or Gewurztraminer varieties. Wine lovers often flock here during harvest season to sample some of France’s finest wines.
In short, Eguisheim offers visitors an authentic glimpse into French history and culture while also providing them with delicious food and drink options amidst stunning scenery – definitely one not to be missed!
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN EGUISHEIM
- A beautiful castle that is located in the Alsace region of France, the Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a must-see
- Equisheim’s old town is a beautifully preserved with half-timbered houses and winding streets. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere.
- The Alsace region is well-known for its white wines, so be sure to try some while you’re in town. There are several wine cellars and producers in Equisheim that offer tastings.
- For a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, make your way up to the bell tower in the center of town.
- Located in a former monastery, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Alsace region.
Paris
A list of the most beautiful French cities to visit, simply wouldn’t be complete without at least including Paris, arguably the most gorgeous city in the world, which deserves its own (many) pages. So, at the risk of being superficial, its top attractions include, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Seine’s quais, old bridges, and Haussmann buildings.
Its beauty is so overwhelming that it almost crushes. However, the city comes to life when you explore its side alleys and happen across charming nooks, unique buildings, or unusual museums like the Carnavalet or Counterfeiting Museum.
The city is famous for its ability to surprise visitors by offering something new just when they think they’ve seen it all, like these off the beaten path areas of Paris.
ROUNDUP: TOP THINGS TO DO IN PARIS
- One of the most famous streets in Paris, the Champs-Élysées is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to duck into some of the high-end stores and street-side cafes along the way.
- Explore some of the city’s many neighborhoods, including the Latin Quarter, Montmartre, and the Marais
- Of course, a visit to Paris wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower! Head to the Champ de Mars to get the best views of this iconic structure.
Final Thoughts on the Most Beautiful French Cities
France is home to the most beautiful French cities. It is a country full with surprise and beauty, from charming beach getaways to Medieval villages. Which city would you most like to visit?
