Discover France: A Guide to the Country's Best Places
Known as "l'Hexagone" for its six-sided shape, France is a country of diverse landscapes and regional identities, from the alpine vistas of the French Alps to the lavender fields of Provence and the glamorous beaches of the Côte d'Azur. France's rich history is showcased in its iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Palace of Versailles.
While Paris offers architectural wonders, world-class museums like the Louvre, and charming districts such as the Latin Quarter, the French countryside presents a different allure with its quaint villages, Gothic cathedrals, and scenic nature. Discover the beauty of France with our guide to the country's must-visit destinations.
1. Paris & Versailles
Paris, the epitome of elegance, is home to the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Art lovers can admire Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie. Nearby, the Château de Versailles stands as a symbol of royal opulence with its Hall of Mirrors and stunning gardens.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Paris: Best Areas & Hotels
2. The Charming Countryside of Provence
Provence is a sun-soaked region with a rustic charm, known for its hilltop villages like Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Gordes. The area's beauty inspired Impressionist painters, and its cuisine is enhanced by the abundance of local herbs.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Provence
3. The Côte d'Azur
The Côte d'Azur, or French Riviera, is famed for its azure waters and chic resorts like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. Visitors can enjoy art museums, beachfront promenades, and luxury amenities.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Côte d'Azur
4. Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is a breathtaking abbey island and a top attraction in Normandy, once a medieval pilgrimage site and now a place for spiritual reflection and cultural events.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Normandy
5. The Châteaux of the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is dotted with fairy-tale castles like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, showcasing the grandeur of the French Renaissance.
6. Reims & its Magnificent Gothic Cathedral
Reims is celebrated for its Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame, a coronation site for French kings, and is part of the "Cities of Art and History."
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Reims
7. Brittany's Coastal Charm
Brittany boasts historic port towns like Saint-Malo and beach resorts such as Dinard. The region's Celtic heritage is celebrated through festivals and its cuisine features fresh seafood and the "kouign-amann" pastry.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Brittany
8. Biarritz & Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz are elegant seaside towns in the Basque region, known for their beaches and the luxurious Hôtel du Palais.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Biarritz
9. Joan of Arc Monuments
Joan of Arc's legacy is honored in Chinon, Rouen, and Orléans, with monuments and museums dedicated to her heroic life and impact on French history.
10. The Alsace Region
Alsace is characterized by its Germanic influence, seen in the colorful half-timbered houses of Strasbourg and Colmar, and its picturesque wine route.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Alsace
11. Mont-Blanc & Annecy in the French Alps
The French Alps are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with Mont Blanc as the crown jewel. The region offers skiing, hiking, and cultural sites like Chamonix and Annecy.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in the French Alps
12. Prehistoric Caves in the Dordogne & the Pyrenees
The Dordogne and Pyrenees regions are home to prehistoric caves like Lascaux, showcasing ancient art and offering a glimpse into early human history.
13. Rocamadour: A Medieval Pilgrimage Destination
Rocamadour is a cliffside village with sacred sites like the Chapelle Notre-Dame and the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Sauveur.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Rocamadour
14. Bordeaux & Saint-Émilion
Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wine and the charming village of Saint-Émilion, filled with historical landmarks.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bordeaux
15. The Burgundy Region: Quintessential France
Burgundy is celebrated for its cultural heritage, including the historic city of Dijon and the Abbey of Cluny, as well as its renowned cuisine and wines.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Burgundy
16. Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrenees Mountains
The Cirque de Gavarnie is a natural wonder in the Pyrenees, resembling a natural cathedral with towering rock walls and waterfalls.
17. Lourdes: France's Biggest Catholic Pilgrimage Site
Lourdes is a spiritual sanctuary where millions seek hope and healing at the Grotto and the Basilique Notre-Dame du Rosaire.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Lourdes
18. Gourmet Restaurants & Cultural Attractions in Lyon
Lyon is a gastronomic hub with traditional bouchons and the esteemed Restaurant Paul Bocuse, surrounded by a rich cultural landscape.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Lyon
From the romance of Paris to the serenity of the countryside, France's destinations offer a tapestry of cultural and natural wonders, making it a perennial favorite for travelers seeking beauty, history, and culinary delights.
