5 Best Cities to Visit in France
France is the land of iconic landmarks, world-class art, and charming cafes. If you’re looking for extraordinary cuisine and unique cultural experiences, then look no further than La Belle France. With its diverse and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder France is the world’s top tourist destination, with millions of travelers coming to explore its lush natural landscapes, museums, and ateliers. So if you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to stop by some of these lesser-known cities – they might just surprise you with their authentic French legacy.
Table of Contents
Paris: The Trendy Capital
Paris – the very embodiment of sophistication, culture and beauty. A place where romance and adventure await your exploration. From the captivating Eiffel Tower and magical Disneyland to the iconic Notre-Dame house of God and the stunning Louver historical centre, Paris has something to offer everyone. Take a Segway or a bike and discover the cobblestone boulevards, quaint cafes and plush eateries.
Or, for a truly luxurious experience, why not sail away on a Bateaux Parisiens cruise and enjoy the sun, the sea and some of the freshest seafood specialties you’ll ever taste. However you explore it, Paris will leave you mesmerized with its drifting designs, art galleries, Luxembourg Gardens and the famous Lido de Paris club. Every moment here is saturated with the sweet smell of the city’s signature perfumes – an unforgettable experience!
Versailles: French Royalty
Unlock the mysteries of the magnificent city of Versailles! Just a 40-minute train ride away from Paris, Versailles is a royal kaleidoscope of spectacular architecture, gastronomic delights, soul-stirring music, and an enchanting atmosphere. Take an unforgettable tour of the Palace of Versailles (Royal Chateau de Versailles), the beloved residence of King Louis XIV, and experience its beauty and grandeur, a reminder of the power, wealth, and passion of the royals.
Other must-see attractions include the exquisite Marie Antoinette’s Estate (the French queen’s private residence from the 1760s), the Queen’s Hamlet, the awe-inspiring Hall of Mirrors, the magnificent Jardins du Château (ornamental palace gardens with fountains), the breathtaking Grand Trianon, the stunning Royal Chapel, the majestic Fountains of Versailles, and the mesmerizing Versailles Royal Opera. So what are you waiting for? Hop on the next train to Versailles and live like royalty!
French Riviera: Shore Line Magic
The French Rivera is the ultimate destination for lavish beach-goers – lazing away in the Mediterranean sun, enveloped by awe-inspiring colour-changing skies and dazzling natural spectacles. Visit Nice, the Queen of Riviera, to indulge in her unique art museums, elegant architecture and serene blue-pebble beaches. For the thrill-seekers, Monaco awaits – watch F1 drivers maneuver their ridiculously expensive cars on the streets, shop ’til you drop at fancy designer stores, and savour Michelin-starred gourmet cuisine at a lux seaside Bistro. The French Rivera countryside is what dreams are made of; picture-perfect Chateaus and mesmerizing red rock mountains.
Lourdes: A Pilgrimage Stop in France
Explore the bustling crossroads of Lourdes, France – a pilgrimage and religious destination known around the world for its sacred and invigorating waters! Get ready to soak up the energy and take a rejuvenating holy dip in the waters of Lourdes – a must-see for any tourist!
From Provincia Romana to Provence
Escape to Provence, the first Roman province of its time, where the kingdom was later turned over to the French Royalty. Soak up the sun by the Mediterranean bay lined with swaying palm trees or by the picturesque Rhone River stretching over to Italy. Wander around and be swept away by the stunning lavender fields, juicy cherry orchards, the majestic Mont Ventoux, the ancient port of Marseille with its museums, and of course, the famous Nimes amphitheatre. Vive la France!
Insider Tips:
- It is more manageable to navigate if you use the yellow narrative city maps than the GPS tracker.
- Do Not Leave Valuables in the rental car
- Do not fall for the Ring Trick
- You may drink tap water as French do
Quite a helpful post… planning to visit in July 🙂