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Top 10 Places to Visit in France Beyond Paris

19 June, 2025

There is a lot more to discover around France, even if Paris frequently takes center stage as the ideal travel location. Charming cities with distinct histories, cultures, and vibes may be found throughout France. The richness and beauty of France are found far beyond the capital, from medieval cities tucked away in the countryside to coastal communities.

From sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines to rolling vineyards and medieval towns, the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking culinary adventures, architectural marvels, or simply a change of pace from the capital, exploring these destinations through curated France Packages ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey.

Depending on your tastes, there are several places to visit, such as the glitzy French Riviera, ancient Normandy, and the pure Loire Valley. These include gorgeous beaches, expansive vineyards, and well-known chateaux.

Normandy

Normandy should be at the top of your bucket list if you're interested in visiting France because of its well-preserved heritage. As you may already be aware, on June 6, 1944, Allied troops arrived in this coastal area. Two months later, France was liberated from Nazi tyranny as a result of the subsequent fight, which is widely known as D-Day and was one of the most significant of World War II. Its dramatic coastline, lush countryside, and charming villages make it one of the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris.

Famous For: Normandy is renowned for the D-Day landing beaches, the stunning Mont Saint-Michel, and its delicious Camembert cheese and apple cider. The region is also known for its picturesque towns like Honfleur and Rouen.

Distance from Paris: 223.5 km

Nice

Nice, the entry point to the French Riviera, is tucked away on the Mediterranean's blue shore. Nice is a great place for anyone who wants to unwind and enjoy the sun because of its glitzy past, stunning beaches, and active arts community. Explore the Old Town's winding lanes, take in the local markets at Cours Saleya, or stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. For sweeping views of the city and shoreline, don't miss Castle Hill. It’s a must-see among the best places to see in France outside of Paris.

Famous For: Nice is famous for its Promenade des Anglais, pebble beaches, colorful Old Town, and thriving art scene. The city is also a gateway to the glamorous Côte d’Azur, with easy access to Monaco and Cannes.

Distance from Paris: 931.9 km

Lyon

Lyon ought to be at the top places to see in France outside of Paris if you enjoy eating. This UNESCO-listed city is a gourmet's paradise and is frequently referred to as the culinary capital of France. Lyon is well-known for its bouchons, or traditional restaurants, where you can enjoy some of the best French cuisine, such as salmon quenelle and quiche. See the magnificent Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for breath-taking views, go through the Traboules (secret passages), and explore the historic Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon).

Famous For: Lyon is celebrated for its world-class cuisine, vibrant markets, silk-weaving history, and the spectacular Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights). Its Renaissance architecture and Roman ruins add to its allure.

Distance from Paris: 487.8 km

Marseille

The second-largest and most exciting city in France is Marseille, which is situated on the Mediterranean coast. Marseille, which combines Provençal, Mediterranean, and North African elements, has a thriving arts scene, a lively culture, and delicious cuisine. Explore the vibrant Vieux-Port (Old Port), have a bowl of bouillabaisse (fish stew), the city's characteristic food, and visit the famous Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde for expansive city views, making it one of the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris.

Famous For: Marseille is known for its historic Old Port, the striking Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and its vibrant markets. The city is also the gateway to the Calanques National Park, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

Distance from Paris: 848.0 km

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, which is well-known throughout the world for its vineyards, is a must-see for wine lovers. One of France's most photographed squares is the city's picturesque Place de la Bourse, where the Miroir d'eau (Mirror of Water) magnificently displays the splendor of the buildings. Bordeaux has a thriving culinary culture as well, with upscale eateries and markets like the Marché des Capucins. Of course, anyone interested in learning more about Bordeaux's wine history must pay a visit to the La Cité du Vin wine museum.

Famous For: Bordeaux is renowned for its exceptional vineyards, neoclassical architecture, and lively riverfront. The city’s Cité du Vin wine museum is a must-visit for oenophiles, making it one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris.

Distance from Paris: 582.4 km

Toulouse

Toulouse is renowned for its unusual pink terracotta structures and is frequently referred to as La Ville Rose (The Pink City). Toulouse, a city in southern France, has the ideal fusion of charm, modernism, and history. Take a walk along the Garonne River or visit the Capitole de Toulouse, a large square including a beautiful neoclassical architecture. Toulouse is particularly well-known for its aerospace sector, and you may visit the space exploration museum called Cité de l’Espace (City of Space).

Famous For: Toulouse is one of the best places to see in France outside of Paris known for its lively squares, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, and its role as the center of Europe’s aerospace industry. The city’s gastronomy, especially cassoulet, is also a highlight.

Distance from Paris: 681.4 km

Lourdes

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees Alps, Lourdes is the destination to go in France for pilgrimage. According to many Catholics, the Virgin Mary visited a little girl at the Grotto of Massabielle eighteen times in the 19th century, making Lourdes one of the world's most significant religious sites. In early August you can experience a variety of festivities celebrating the Assumption, the time the Virgin Mary ascended into heaven, making the city one of the most spiritual places to see in France outside of Paris.

Famous For: Lourdes is best known for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in 1858. The town’s spiritual atmosphere and natural beauty make it one of the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris.

Distance from Paris: 822.7 km

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy city on the French Riviera that draws celebrities, filmmakers, and tourists due to its yearly Film Festival. Admire the opulent ships in the port as you stroll down the Croisette, a promenade lined with palm trees. Cannes also has stunning beaches, Le Suquet, a historic town, and a great culinary scene, especially for seafood enthusiasts. The Festival de Cannes, which honors cinema in style, is a must-see cultural event if you're traveling in May, making it the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris.

Famous For: Cannes is renowned for its sandy beaches, luxury boutiques, and the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette. The annual Cannes Film Festival attracts celebrities and cinephiles from around the globe.

Distance from Paris: 901.1 km

The Loire Valley

Do you want to discover top places to visit in France outside of Paris? Include a stop to the Loire Valley, a verdant area two hours southwest of Paris, in your schedule. The Loire Valley is a great place to visit if you're searching for a natural beauty that would be worthy of a painting in the Louvre. With sweeping vineyards sprinkled with fanciful chateaux, huge fortresses, old castles, and the most beautiful gardens you've ever seen, it's breathtakingly lush.

Famous For: The region is famous for its stunning castles like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, as well as its world-class wines and beautiful cycling routes.

Distance from Paris: 213.1 km

Aix-en-Provence

"What are some interesting and best places to see in France outside of Paris?" is a question that may come up. One of the most beautiful destinations in Provence is sun-drenched Aix-en-Provence. This city in the south has a special kind of magic: It boasts world-class vineyards that produce summer-perfect rosé wines, winding bike routes surrounded by lavender fields, and exquisitely maintained medieval and Roman historic villages. It also puts a heavy emphasis on slowing down, taking the time to smell the lavender and savoring every bite of food—in fact, most stores close for lunch so that employees may sit down and eat a real meal.

Famous For: Aix-en-Provence is known for its thermal springs, vibrant art scene inspired by Paul Cézanne, and its café culture. The town’s lavender fields and nearby Luberon villages add to its appeal as one of the best places to see in France outside of Paris.

Distance from Paris: 859.9 km

What is The Best Time To Explore France Beyond Paris?

France’s diverse geography means that the best time to visit can vary depending on your chosen destinations. Generally, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for exploring the top places to visit in France outside of Paris. These shoulder seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes, whether you’re wandering through the lavender fields of Provence or the vineyards of Bordeaux.
Summer (July and August) is perfect for coastal regions like Nice and Cannes, but expect higher prices and more tourists.

Winter, meanwhile, transforms areas like the Loire Valley and Lyon into festive wonderlands, making them some of the best places to see in France outside of Paris during the holiday season. For best experience you must club your France trip with the festivals and events happening around the country.

FAQs For France

1. Which are some of the best wineries in France?

Ans: France is home to some of the world’s most prestigious wineries. Bordeaux and Burgundy are legendary for their reds and whites, while Champagne is the birthplace of sparkling wine. The Loire Valley and Alsace also offer exceptional vineyard experiences, making them top places to visit in France outside of Paris for wine lovers.

2. Which is the most beautiful village in France?

Ans: While beauty is subjective, many consider Eguisheim in Alsace or Gordes in Provence as contenders for the most beautiful village. Their cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and medieval charm make them some of the best places to see in France outside of Paris.

3. Is Lyon worth visiting?

Ans: Absolutely. Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its gastronomy, vibrant markets, and rich history. Its blend of Renaissance architecture, Roman ruins, and lively cultural scene make it one of the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris.

4. What city is close to Paris by train?

Ans: Several cities are easily accessible from Paris by train, including Rouen in Normandy, Reims in Champagne, and Tours in the Loire Valley. These destinations are ideal for travelers looking for places to see in France outside of Paris without long travel times.

5. What are some of the important tips for visiting France?

Ans: Here are some of the important things to keep in mind while visiting France:

Learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
Book accommodations and major attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Use France’s efficient train network for intercity travel.
Respect local customs, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Try regional specialties—each area has its own culinary delights.

6. Which is the best time of the year to visit France?

Ans: Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) are generally the best times to visit the top places to visit in France outside of Paris, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for coastal regions, while winter brings festive charm to cities and the countryside.

7. What are the best ways to get around France beyond Paris?

Ans: France boasts an extensive high-speed train network (TGV) that connects major cities and regions efficiently. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas, vineyards, and small villages at your own pace. Domestic flights are available for longer distances, and regional buses offer budget-friendly options for shorter journeys.