Like the great American philosopher, Beyonce once said, “Oui, I am happy to be in Paris.” But if you’re planning to visit France, one trip to the French countryside and the chic city split into Rive Gauche and Rive Droite will just have to get in line. Because, although Paris is one of my beloved homes, there’s nothing like the effervescent yet quaint French towns sprinkled across the country.
In this article, you’ll learn the Top 10 Most Beautiful French Countryside Cities to Visit, from quaint French towns to port cities filled with attractions. So, Allons-y! Let’s go!
Places to Visit in the French Countryside
With storybook towns, vibrant villages, and renowned vineyards, and beautiful landscapes, to explore.
Like the 10 Best Places to Visit in France Beyond Paris, here are some of the best French towns in the countryside of France for you to enjoy jaw-dropping scenery, endless history, and more:
1. Marseille: The Darling of the French Riviera
One of Europe’s oldest cities and France’s second-largest city, Marseille, is a major Mediterranean seaport in the South of France countryside. They boast an idyllic climate, Roman ruins, and medieval architecture.
At the center of Marseille is its old port. Known for two historical forts, this French port city boasts waterfront cafes, shops, and bars. One of the perfect natural attractions of Marseille, the Calanques are a series of tiny inlets with great blue water and a majestic limestone cliff. You can experience the best time in this beautiful destination on the French countryside.
2. Lyon: The Gastronomer of the Beautiful French Countryside
Next, Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is where the Rhone and Saone rivers meet. Known as the gastronomic capital of the country, Lyon offers an exquisite blend of innovative cuisine and historical architecture. The strategic location of this French town has attracted merchants to the city since 43 BC. An orderly and sophisticated place, the renaissance building dots its street.
Lyon faultlessly mixes the innovative with the old, boasting a rich cultural heritage known for gastronomic delights and architecture. Here, France’s countryside provides much to discover and enjoy.
3. Versailles: The Royalty of Famous French Countryside Cities
As one of the most popular tourist sites outside of Paris, Versailles is a center of French scenery and known for its elegance and joie de vivre. You can enjoy the bright greenery and fantastic view from the top of the Palace of Versailles Tower.
Plus, pictures of the French countryside are always worth taking here as you’ll enjoy a beautiful view wherever you go.
4. Strasbourg: A Tale of Two European Cultures
The capital of Alsace, Strasbourg, has a remarkable historical center and a strategic setting on the west bank of the Rhone. So, throughout history France and Germany have fought over its dominion.
If you spot the glassy European Union Strasbourg buildings glittering in the sun and, along with the rampant student body, help to give an innovative air to this old city. The gothic cathedral is outstanding to behold, as is the delightful La Petite France, which is home to the ancient town. Strasbourg’s scenery is a vibrant feature that attracts audience from around the world.
5. Annecy, France: The French Village on the Lake
Annecy is one of those picturesque postcard towns you must pinch yourself to know you’re living in a dream. This must see in France is an alpine town is situated on the nationwide renowned Lake Annecy, and the freezing waters flow through the town built on canals.
Picture yourself walking along cobblestone alleyways, lost in the fantastic fragrance of freshly baked croissants, as shopkeepers converse across the streets.
6. Tour Du Mont Blanc: Where the French Countryside Meets the Alps
The Tour Du Mont Blanc is considered one of the must see cities in France. It’s a roughly 170-kilometer trek that loops around Mont blanc. You’ll not only hike in France but also go through Italy and Switzerland if you hike at a decent pace. You can expect to complete the loop in about 10 days.
It is one of the perfect and excellent multi-day hikes in Europe. The France countryside has endless amazing views and locations which you can explore.
7. Loire Valley: Chateau-Filled French Towns
The Loire Valley is as enticing as you imagine and it’s proximity to Paris, makes it an ideal France day trip. But if you have the time, spending a few days in the Loire Valley is an even better experience. Here, you can stroll alongside restored, historical chateaus and castles of grand proportions.
The valley’s attraction is its beautiful and massive architecture sprinkled throughout the rolling green hills. It starts from magnificent country manors to defense fortresses and luxurious palaces.
8. Cluny: The Lovely Land of French Chateaus
Cluny is a hidden French delight. This fanciful French village has some of the most fantastic architecture in eastern France. With a Roman influence, architecture, especially the Cluny Abbey, holds so much history.
Cluny has a picturesque, French country vibe with surrounding farm fields and horses scattering its pastures. In addition, the Museum of Art and Archeology gives you a glimpse of the past. Be sure to climb the Cheese Tower for some breathtaking views.
9. Bordeaux: Architecture in French Wine Country
Resting on the banks of the Garonne River, Bordeaux is a world-renowned city with iconic French vineyards making its wine. This walkable city features an charming old town with paths that intertwine wrap around classic architecture.
Surrounding Palace De La Bourse, you can find 18th-century mansions rubbing shoulders with decadent palaces and several great art museums. At night the view of Bordeaux is stunning as well as beautiful. The French countryside has some of the most beautiful places fit to give Paris a run for its money.
10. Arles: The French Hidden Gem
Arles, situated on the River Rhone in the Provence region of France, is a French town that doesn’t get attention as much as it should. This splendid town in the french countryside is a fantastic stop as part of a more oversized south of France tour.
Arles is also one of the best French vacation spots, with tourists visit this fantastic place every time they come to France.
Take the Scenic Route Through the French Countryside
The French Countryside is filled with the best places to visit when you plan to visit France. You’ll experience spectacular views and places to explore that will stay with you for a lifetime. So remember to save this list for your next visit to France.
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