Discover These Hidden Gems In France Beyond Paris
France is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Although Paris is iconic and timeless, the experience of visiting the city is different from other parts of France. Here are 12 alternative destinations to consider for your authentic French getaway.
Reims, Grand Est
Reims, though unofficially, is considered the capital of the Champagne region. The city offers numerous tastings and historic cellar tours daily, making it a perfect destination for champagne lovers. Visitors can also explore the city’s iconic Nôtre Dame Cathedral.
Camargue Regional Park
Camargue is a unique region in southern France, often called the Wild West of France. Where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll find pink flamingos, salt marshes, and the only rice fields in the country. Camargue is also famous for its white horses and traditional bullfighting events known as courses camarguaises.
Avignon, Provence
Avignon is a popular destination for its Provençal food, historical museums, and the Avignon Festival, which takes place every summer and features performing arts. The Palace of the Popes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, is one of Avignon’s most well-known landmarks, along with its beautiful gardens.
Baccarat, Alsace
Baccarat is well-known for its Art Nouveau culture and expertise in producing high-quality crystals. It is also a significant religious center and an ideal location for day trips around the Alsace region. You can tour the city’s renowned crystal factory and even take an exquisite piece home.
Strasbourg, Alsace
Strasbourg is found on the border between France and Germany. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful canals, and essential EU establishments. The city is also known for its initiatives to reduce carbon emissions by promoting cycling over driving, making it one of the most eco-friendly cities in Europe.
Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Annecy is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains. Visitors can also explore the historic old town, with its winding canals, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. Its crystal-clear lake is a popular spot for boating and other activities. In addition, Annecy is known for its delicious local cuisine, including cheese and wine.
Biarritz, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Biarritz, located in the beautiful Basque region, is a popular destination for those seeking a mix of French and Basque cultures. Biarritz is also a surfer’s paradise with stunning beaches and great waves. For day trips, the nearby Spanish cities of Bilbao and San Sebastian are just a short train ride away.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Chamonix, which hosted the inaugural Winter Olympics in 1926, boasts exceptional ski slopes and breathtaking views of the French Alps. Its charming town is vibrant with color and alpine culture. The highest cable car in the country takes skiers up to an elevation of 12,600 ft, while trains departing from the city provide scenic journeys to France’s largest glacier.
Aix-en-Provence, Provence
Aix-En-Provence is a beautiful city in southern France that serves as a gateway to the country’s most iconic landscapes. From sprawling lavender fields to charming Provençal villages, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to discover. The city also boasts a lively art and culinary scene, with markets and events occurring all year.
Corsica
Corsica is a stunning island famous for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Due to its breathtaking landscapes, it’s often referred to as the Isle of Beauty. Additionally, Corsica has a rich history and cultural heritage, being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Burgundy Region
Burgundy is a top wine destination, famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. You and your friends can tour the vineyards and taste the region’s delicious wines. In addition to wine, Burgundy boasts charming medieval villages and picturesque rolling hills. It is a perfect place for a relaxing and indulgent vacation.
Loire Valley, Centre-Val de Loire
The Loire Valley has classic French chateaux, beautiful riverside villages, and a rich heritage. It is famous for its vineyards and wine and offers a plethora of outdoor activities that any visitor can enjoy. Visiting this region perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.
France is a country full of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From Provence’s charming villages to the French Riviera’s stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to France this summer, take some time to explore beyond Paris and discover all the wonders this country has to offer. You won’t regret it!
