France, renowned for its captivating culture, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, beckons travelers from around the globe. But beyond the allure of Paris, a treasure trove of vibrant cities awaits discovery. SIXT.VN offers seamless travel experiences, ensuring you explore the best French destinations with ease. Uncover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories with our comprehensive travel solutions, perfect for solo adventurers, romantic getaways, and family vacations alike.
1. Discovering Nice: The Jewel of the French Riviera
Is Nice truly the best city in France for a sun-kissed escape? Absolutely! Nice, also known as Nice la Belle (Nice The Beautiful), is an irresistible destination for travelers craving warm weather and vibrant beach vibes.
Beyond its stunning coastline, Nice boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, showcasing its rich history and cultural significance. Explore a vast collection of museums, parks, and historic sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s captivating past. Nice’s allure has also captivated artists for centuries, drawing renowned painters like Matisse and Chagall to its inspiring shores. Immerse yourself in their artistic legacy at the Chagall Museum, home to an impressive collection of his masterpieces.
An overhead view of Nice, France
Throughout the year, Nice pulsates with energy, hosting lively festivals and bustling markets like the Marché aux Fleurs, where the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas will awaken your senses. According to a 2023 report by the Nice Convention and Visitors Bureau, the city hosts over 300 festivals and events annually, showcasing its vibrant cultural scene. The mild Mediterranean climate makes Nice a year-round destination, with gentle winters and warm summers perfect for leisurely strolls along the Promenade des Anglais or relaxing on the beach. Plus, with its easily accessible airport, train station, and highway connections, reaching Nice is a breeze.
Don’t miss the chance to savor the local cuisine, including the iconic salad niçoise, a refreshing tomato salad with tuna or anchovies, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. For seafood enthusiasts, Pissaladière is a must-try, a traditional flatbread with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies, offering a delightful taste of the Mediterranean.
According to research from the World Tourism Organization in 2024, coastal cities like Nice experience a 15% increase in tourism due to their favorable climate and beaches.
2. Exploring Lyon: A Gastronomic and Historical Paradise
Why is Lyon considered one of the best cities to visit in France for food lovers? Lyon, France’s third-largest city, nestled at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, is a haven for history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.
History lovers will be enthralled by Lyon’s Roman heritage, with well-preserved ancient sites like the Amphitheater of the Three Gauls offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past. According to a 2022 study by the Lyon Tourism and Convention Bureau, the city attracts over 6 million visitors annually, drawn to its historical landmarks and cultural attractions.
Wine aficionados will rejoice in Lyon’s proximity to the renowned Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône regions, where they can indulge in high-quality wines at affordable prices. Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by ordering mâchons, a traditional brunch featuring charcuterie and Beaujolais red wine. For dinner, savor the classic coq au vin, a world-famous chicken dish that originated in Lyon.
River boats in Lyon, France on a summer day.
Lyon’s accessibility by train and air makes it a convenient destination year-round, with its temperate climate ensuring pleasant weather throughout the seasons. According to research from the French National Railway Company (SNCF) in 2023, Lyon is one of the most accessible cities in France by train, with frequent high-speed connections to major European cities.
3. Unveiling Strasbourg: A Fairytale Destination with Franco-German Charm
Looking for a unique cultural experience? Is Strasbourg a must-see city in France? Absolutely! Strasbourg, situated on France’s eastern border with Germany, offers a fairytale experience with its unique blend of French and German cultures.
Located just a stone’s throw from the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains, Strasbourg caters to both indoor and outdoor enthusiasts. Wander through its medieval thoroughfares and admire the half-timber architecture that defines the city’s charm. Explore streets like Rue Mercière, Rue des Dentelles, and Rue de Serruriers, each bearing names that echo the trades that once flourished there.
Strasbourg is most famous for its internationally renowned Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, savor traditional treats, and discover unique handcrafted gifts.
Classic half-timber buildings on a cloudy day in Strasbourg, France.
According to the Strasbourg Tourist Office, the Christkindelsmärik attracts over 2 million visitors each year, solidifying its status as a premier Christmas destination. While Strasbourg has a small airport, it is easily accessible from major Western European cities by high-speed train, making it a convenient and enchanting destination.
4. Discovering Bordeaux: A Haven for Wine Lovers and History Buffs
Why is Bordeaux a top destination for wine enthusiasts? Bordeaux, famously nicknamed “La Belle Endormie” (Sleeping Beauty), is a captivating city built on the bend of the Garonne River, not far from the Atlantic Ocean.
While Bordeaux experiences some rainfall in the winter, its mild temperatures make it an enjoyable getaway year-round. Summers are warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s numerous museums, churches, and monuments. However, the region prides itself on its array of vineyards, where travelers can indulge in tours and tastings.
Bordeaux is celebrated for its vineyards and superior wines, but it is also a treasure trove of art and history, boasting 362 historic monuments and national heritage sites spanning various eras, some dating back to ancient Rome.
Wine barrels in a vineyard in Bordeaux, France.
According to a 2023 report by the Bordeaux Wine Council (CIVB), the region produces over 800 million bottles of wine annually, making it one of the world’s leading wine regions.
Don’t forget to visit a local boulangerie and sample a canalé, a rum and vanilla pastry that is a Bordeaux specialty. With an airport and daily trains, including connections from Paris, Bordeaux is easily accessible.
5. Toulouse: Exploring the Pink City’s Aerospace and Cultural Heritage
Is Toulouse worth visiting for its unique architecture and space industry? Absolutely! Toulouse, located in Southern France near the Spanish border, is a mid-size city with a unique aesthetic characterized by its iconic red brick architecture and pastel blue window shutters.
Toulouse is a historic city, boasting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Canal du Midi, a waterway constructed to link the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Those interested in space and air transport will be delighted to discover that Toulouse is the center of Europe’s Aerospace industry and home to Europe’s largest space center.
A lit up ferris wheel on the Garonne River in Toulouse, France at night.
According to a 2024 report by the European Space Agency (ESA), Toulouse is a major hub for space research and development, attracting scientists and engineers from around the world. Toulouse has an airport and is well-connected by train, including connections from Paris. Summers are long and hot, while winters are cool to mild. Autumn is an ideal time to visit, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
While in La Ville Rose (The Pink City), savor the local cuisine, including cassoulet, a hearty bean and meat stew, or garbure, a stew with confit d’oie (salted and seasoned, fatty goose meat) and cabbage. Explore shops selling products made from violets or blue pastel, plants deeply woven into Toulouse’s history.
6. Rennes: Discovering Brittany’s Art, History, and Culinary Delights
What makes Rennes a compelling destination for art and history enthusiasts? Rennes, labeled a city of art and history, offers a wealth of cultural experiences. With ornate cathedrals, winding old town streets, and proximity to Mont Saint Michel, one of France’s most visited historic sites, Rennes is a charming town with something for everyone.
Rennes’ city center is a historic treasure trove with cobblestone streets and half-timber buildings. Explore beautiful parks and gardens, lively restaurants, and the winding River Vilaine.
While strolling through the old streets, savor the local flavors by trying a Breton galette (galette Bretonne), a thin, salty crêpe made with buckwheat, filled with popular ingredients like ham, cheese, and fried egg.
Quintessential half-timber houses in Rennes, France.
According to the Rennes Tourist Office, the city’s historic center attracts over 2 million visitors annually, drawn to its architectural charm and cultural attractions. Rennes offers many cathedrals, museums, and shopping opportunities.
Traveling to Rennes is easy. While the city has a small airport, there are more options when traveling by train from Paris, with multiple daily departures. Summer is the most popular time to visit Rennes, with weather similar to the UK.
7. Marseille: Unveiling the Sun-Kissed Charm of France’s Oldest City
Why should Marseille be on your list of must-see cities in France? Marseille, a seaside city, is a must-visit destination with turquoise blue waters, breathtaking sunsets, and plenty to see and do. As France’s second-largest city, Marseille is also its oldest, founded by Greek settlers around 600 BCE.
While Marseille has evolved significantly since ancient times, it still offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. Explore gorgeous cathedrals, stunning monuments, and a beachside castle with stunning oceanic views.
While there is moderate rainfall in the winter, the summers are hot and mostly dry, ideal for swimming or relaxing on the beach. Marseille was a popular getaway for French artists, including Cézanne, Dufy, and Renoir, drawn to its appealing weather.
Marseille is the sunniest city in France, receiving almost twice as much sunshine as other French cities. According to a 2023 report by Météo-France, Marseille averages over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers.
Sunset at a port in Marseilles, France.
8. Nantes: Exploring the Art, Gastronomy, and Wine of Western France
What makes Nantes a unique destination for foodies and art lovers? Nantes, located just 31 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, is a small city in Western France famous for its art scene, gastronomy, and wine.
Tucked against the Loire River, Nantes was once known as “La Venise d’Ouest” (The Venice of the West) due to its water-filled quays and channels. In the mid-20th century, most of these waterways were removed.
Due to Nantes’ wet, oceanic climate, crops thrive, making it an important agricultural spot that grows much of France’s leeks, radishes, and carrots. It is also France’s largest producer of dry white wines.
Cows in a field in Nantes, France.
According to a 2022 report by the Pays de la Loire Regional Council, Nantes is a leading agricultural region in France, known for its production of vegetables, fruits, and wine.
Local culinary favorites include gâteau Nantais (a rum cake) and beurre blanc (shallots with a white wine butter sauce). While Nantes is rainy, the city is lively with many museums, art, and events throughout the year. It is easily accessible by train from Paris and several other cities in France.
9. Montpellier: Embracing the Sunshine and Pedestrian-Friendly Charm of Southern France
Is Montpellier the best city in France for a relaxing and pedestrian-friendly vacation? Absolutely! Montpellier, located on the Southern coast, is a bright city with enjoyable weather and a friendly energy.
This city is known for its pedestrian-focused design, making it particularly alluring for tourists. Stroll along the old streets of Montpellier and discover vast gardens, historic buildings, and fascinating museums at every turn.
Montpellier is sometimes called “The Gifted,” perhaps due to its blend of French and Mediterranean culture, great weather, and sunny beaches. Its popularity is evident in its status as one of the fastest-growing cities in France.
Decorative banners on a narrow street in Montpellier.
Aside from its beauty, Montpellier offers a rich history, having been a hub for medical education. The oldest medical school still in operation is located in Montpellier. It has also been a primary center for the spice trade.
Montpellier has an airport and a well-connected train system. While winters tend to be cool and damp, summers are hot and dry, perfect for long days at the beach.
According to a 2023 report by the Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, the city’s population has grown by over 20% in the past decade, making it one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in France.
10. Dijon: Indulging in Gastronomic Delights and Historical Treasures
What makes Dijon a must-visit destination for foodies and history buffs? Dijon, famous as the birthplace of Dijon mustard, is a small city in Eastern France that offers a captivating blend of incredible gastronomy and fascinating history.
In ancient times, Dijon was the Roman city Divio. Later, it was home to the famous Dukes of Burgundy. Explore engaging museums detailing its history and day-to-day life, as well as several art museums.
Dijon also has an impressive number of preserved churches, like Notre Dame. On an exterior corner, there is a famous owl carving on one of its walls. Local legend says that visitors who touch this sculpture with their left hand will be granted a wish.
Whole-grain dijon mustard in a jar.
Dijon, while located inland, has an oceanic climate, with cool winters and hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms.
According to the Dijon Tourist Office, the city’s historic center attracts over 1 million visitors annually, drawn to its architectural heritage and culinary delights.
Gustave Eiffel, the designer and engineer of the Eiffel Tower, was from Dijon.
11. Limoges: Discovering the Art of Porcelain and Ancient History
Why should Limoges be on your radar for a unique cultural experience in France? Limoges, situated in Western France, is a small city with a wealth of attractions, from stunning churches to luxury shopping and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Limoges has ancient roots, founded in 10 BCE under the name Augustoritum. It was an important city in Rome, with theatres, aqueducts, and sacred sites. Archaeologists are still uncovering new artifacts to this day.
Today, Limoges is a lively city most famous for its porcelain production. Those interested in antiquing or tablewares may already know about Limoges porcelain. You can see examples of it in porcelain houses, museums, and gift shops.
A couple enjoys a bike ride through the streets of Limoges.
According to a 2024 report by the French Ministry of Culture, Limoges is a leading center for porcelain production in France, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century.
While classified as an oceanic climate, Limoges usually gets a little snow in the winter. Summers are quite warm, making it a popular time for tourists to visit.
If you feel peckish, you can find this region’s famous galetou in many boulangeries. Usually rolled into a pinwheel, galetous are savory pancakes with meat and cheese inside. For those feeling a little more adventurous, it’s also worth trying chestnut boudin – aka black pudding.
Celebrated French painter Renoir was from Limoges.
12. SIXT.VN: Your Gateway to Exploring the Best Cities in France
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FAQ: Your Questions About the Best Cities to Travel in France Answered
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What is the best time of year to visit France?
The best time to visit France depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is ideal for beach vacations, but expect higher prices and more tourists. Winter (November-March) is suitable for skiing in the Alps or exploring Christmas markets.
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What are the most popular attractions in France besides Paris?
Popular attractions include the Palace of Versailles, the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Monaco), the Loire Valley castles, Mont Saint-Michel, and the lavender fields of Provence.
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What is the best way to get around France?
France has an excellent transportation system. High-speed trains (TGV) are a convenient way to travel between major cities. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the countryside. Domestic flights are also available.
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What is the currency used in France?
The currency used in France is the Euro (€).
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Do I need a visa to travel to France?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter France for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days. Check the specific requirements for your country before traveling.
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What language is spoken in France?
The official language of France is French. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic French phrases will enhance your experience.
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What should I pack for a trip to France?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, clothing appropriate for the season, a universal adapter, and any necessary medications. A phrasebook or translation app can also be helpful.
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What is the tipping etiquette in France?
Tipping is not mandatory in France, as a service charge is usually included in restaurant bills. However, it is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) for exceptional service.
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What are some popular French dishes to try?
Popular French dishes include crêpes, croissants, steak frites, coq au vin, and macarons. Be sure to explore regional specialties as well.
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Is France a safe country to visit?
France is generally a safe country to visit. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas.
