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Where to Visit in the French Countryside (Regional Breakdown)
France consistently hits the top of our list for summer vacation destinations, but the country has something to offer through every season, from Christmas markets to New Year’s Eve celebrations. If you’re planning a getaway to the French countryside, it’s a good idea to focus on one or two regions to help streamline logistics. While France has an impressive public transport system, including for cross-country travel, renting a car can make it easier to reach some of these smaller towns.
Below, we’re spotlighting 20 towns to consider visiting when exploring France, along with our insider tips on how to experience these towns like a true Francophile.
Alsace
Alsace is a northeastern region of France, close to Germany and Switzerland. Although technically in France, German is also widely spoken here. The high-speed train from Paris to Strasbourg, the region’s main city, takes under 2 hours with almost 20 direct trains daily.
1. Strasbourg
Where to stay: Hotel Beaucour
Strasbourg might technically be a small city, but it encapsulates the charm that makes the French countryside so attractive. There are plenty of neighborhoods throughout the city that feel like their own quaint villages. Strasbourg has both French and German influences in its architecture, which is best seen in the city center at the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg. (Yes, there’s more than one Notre Dame!).
Strasbourg encapsulates the charm that makes the French countryside so attractive.
Photo by Hugues de BUYER-MIMEURE on Unsplash
The historic city center is known as Grande Île and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its half-timbered homes and cobblestone streets, perfect for a day of exploring. This small city is a great option for travelers who want to experience a Christmas Market without the hustle and bustle you’ll find in cities like London and Brussels, with more authentic crafts and cuisine on offer.
2. Colmar
Where to stay: Hôtel Maison Turenne
Tourists who want to feel like they’re stepping into a European fairytale should head to Colmar. This town is known for its brightly colored timbered houses, offering the perfect backdrop for vacation photos. It’s a great option for a weekend getaway with plenty of local cuisine to sample, including flammekuecha, a thin-crusted pizza with bacon and onion.
Colmar is known for its brightly colored timbered houses.
Photo by Sina Ettmer Photography on Shutterstock
More adventurous foodies are also in for a treat as Colmar is considered one of the best places for Michelin-starred restaurants. JY’s, at the heart of Colmar in Champ de Mars park, now has 2 Michelin stars with a 3-course lunch menu for under €100 per person.
The French Alps
The French Alps are famous for being home to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, and they offer some of the best skiing and mountaineering in Europe. However, there’s far more to this region than just its winter sports – although it is scheduled to host the 2030 Winter Olympics.
1. Pralognan-la-Vanoise
Where to stay: Madame Vacances- Résidence Les Jardins de la Vanoise
Pralognan-la-Vanoise is a small village close to Vanoise National Park that’s home to just 700 people but welcomes tourists year-round. It’s conveniently located on the Col de la Vanoise and Lac des Vaches hiking trails, which are popular in summer. Fans of skiing who want to escape the busier resorts in the French Alps can choose Pralognan-la-Vanoise as a quieter alternative with plenty of family-friendly slopes.
Pralognan-la-Vanoise is a small village close to Vanoise National Park.
Photo by KylianP on Shutterstock
2. Annecy
Where to stay: Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton
It’s easy to think that the French Alps are only for skiers, but Annecy has an old-school charm that is perfect for visitors who prefer to relax and indulge, instead of racing down the slopes. Palais de L’Île is one of the most popular museums in Annecy and is a 12th-century building that previously served as a prison, located on the banks of the main canal.
Palais de L’Île is one of the most popular museums in Annecy.
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Annecy has earned itself the nickname of being the “Venice of the Alps” with its cobbled streets and bright buildings. The Lake Annecy promenade offers scenic walking routes, and the lake itself is popular for wild swimming and paddleboarding during the summer. You’ll also find some of the best cuisine at the small bistros dotted along the canal. Dishes like tartiflette and raclette are must-tries for first-time visitors to the Alps.
3. Saint-Véran
Where to stay: La Ferme Du Chapi
Saint-Véran is located close to the Queyras Regional Nature Park on the Italian border. It’s famous for being amongst the highest permanently inhabited villages in Europe, with an elevation of 6,500 feet, and is also considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. Saint-Véran’s architecture makes it stand out from other Alpine areas with its log cabins and 17th-century church. Visitors to the area in summer can head to Pic de Châteaurenard to explore the astronomical observatory.
Saint-Véran is famous for being amongst the highest permanently inhabited villages in Europe.
Photo by BTWImages on Shutterstock
Brittany
Brittany is located in the north-west region of France and is often known as “Little Britain” due to its Celtic roots. This historic peninsula is known for its rugged coastline and medieval history, making it a great starting point for a longer visit to the country.
1. Bénodet
Where to stay: Le Cornouaille Hotel & Spa
Bénodet is a seaside town that looks like it’s right out of a 1960s movie with its lighthouses and sandy beaches. It’s a great option for a weekend getaway or for visitors who want to take things at a slower pace. Bénodet is known for its seafood restaurants, which serve up fresh catch, along with offering some of the best views of the Atlantic. Travelers to Bénodet will often take the crossing to the seaside resort of Sainte-Marine, although crossings only happen every half hour during the peak summer season.
Bénodet is a great option for a weekend getaway or for visitors who want to take things at a slower pace.
Photo by Alexandre.ROSA on Shutterstock
2. Locronan
Where to stay: Manoir de Moëllien, The Originals Relais
Locronan is an award-winning village that’s making a name for itself as a popular filming location in the French countryside. With digital detoxes set to be one of 2026’s biggest travel trends, Locronan offers a chance to disconnect from the virtual world with its cobbled streets, family-run bakeries, and traditional Breton architecture. More adventurous travelers can use Locronan as a base for climbing the Montagne du Prieuré.
Locronan is making a name for itself as a popular filming location in the French countryside.
Photo by Miroslaw Skorka on Shutterstock
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a region in southwestern France and a port city of the same name, located on the river Garonne. It’s a must-visit for history fans with its 18th and 19th-century architecture, public gardens, and Gothic cathedrals. Bordeaux is often compared to Paris, and the city itself is a great option for visitors who want to stay in a city but with the option for making day trips to nearby towns and villages.
1. Saint-Émilion
Where to stay: Les Chambres d’Ovaline
Saint Émilion is a town that is often featured on Bordeaux river cruises and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its half-timbered houses and underground tunnels. The main attraction is Église Monolithe, which was carved entirely out of limestone. Most visitors spend their time in Saint-Émilion sampling the local wines, and the main street is full of wineries that offer walk-in tastings.
Saint Émilion is a town that is often featured on Bordeaux river cruises and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo by Martin M303 on Shutterstock
Burgundy
Burgundy is located in the eastern region of the country and is famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, thanks to its region’s limestone-rich soil. It’s often overlooked by tourists, making it ideal for a quieter getaway or a romantic vacation for a couple who want to indulge in an authentic experience.
1. Auxerre
Where to stay: The Originals Boutique, Hôtel Normandie, Auxerre
It’s easy to think that Auxerre must have served as inspiration for a Disney Princess movie with its quintessential old-school charm and the 15th-century clock tower, known as “Tour de l’Horloge”, which overlooks the town center. Under the iconic clock tower, guests will find plenty of independent shops and restaurants with alfresco dining spots.
It’s easy to think that Auxerre must have served as inspiration for a Disney Princess movie with its quintessential old-school charm.
Photo by barmalini on Shutterstock
History fans will want to visit the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, which is home to artefacts that date as far back as Ancient Rome, and is housed in the Abbaye Saint-Germain, a former Benedictine monastery.
2. Vezelay
Where to stay: Le Compostelle
Vezelay is a medieval town in Burgundy that is popular as a pilgrimage site for Catholics with its 12th-century basilica, which is believed to house relics of the Virgin Mary in its crypt. Don’t make the mistake of writing Vezelay off as only being a pilgrimage site, as there are plenty of art galleries, independent shops, and a 12th-century wine cellar to explore.
Vezelay is a medieval town in Burgundy that is popular as a pilgrimage site for Catholics.
Photo by clemMtravel on Shutterstock
Champagne
Just an hour from Paris, you’ll find the Champagne region of France. This wine region is where all authentic “champagne” is produced, making it a popular destination for honeymoons, group trips, and getaways with friends.
1. Reims
Where to stay: Hôtel Ibis Budget Reims Parc des Expositions
Reims is known as the “City of Champagne”, and is where Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot are based, but it also offers plenty for families to enjoy. The Gothic Reims Cathedral is famous for being the traditional site where French kings were crowned, with 25 of them crowned in the current cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect alternative to visiting Notre Dame, especially for tourists making a return visit to France.
The Gothic Reims Cathedral is famous for being the traditional site where French kings were crowned.
Photo by RossHelen on Shutterstock
2. Epernay
Where to stay: Kyriad Epernay
Just like Reims, Epernay is home to some of the most famous champagne brands in the world, including Perrier-Jouët and Moët & Chandon. Known as the “Capital of Champagne”, Epernay is the ultimate day trip from Paris. Avenue de Champagne is full of cellars and terrace bars that offer tasting experiences, alongside traditional cuisine and drinks. There are over 200 million bottles of champagne held in the cellars of Espernay, making this beautiful French town a dream come true for champagne lovers.
Known as the “Capital of Champagne”, Epernay is the ultimate day trip from Paris.
Photo by QuentinprodPhotos on Shutterstock
Provence
Provence is one of the most popular regions in France, located close to the border of Italy, along the Mediterranean Sea. Many tourists choose to stay in Provence, particularly Nice, when visiting Monaco. This region is where you’ll also find the French Riviera, and it’s a great option for tourists who want the ability to travel back and forth between France and Italy.
1. Nice
Where to stay: Best Western Lakmi hotel
Nice is the crown of the French Riviera, beloved by celebrities and the global jet set for decades. It’s the most popular spot in the Côte d’Azur but is relatively small in size, making the whole city feel like one huge resort. This coastal destination offers the perfect getaway for a wellness-focused vacation or for couples seeking an alternative honeymoon spot.
Nice is the most popular spot in the Côte d’Azur.
Photo by Arcady on Shutterstock
The popularity of Nice, especially during the peak summer months, means it’s a good idea to book at least 6 months in advance when visiting. What makes Nice unique is that it offers accommodation and experiences to suit every budget, from luxury travelers who want a 5-star hotel to budget-conscious backpackers making their way through Europe.
2. Fontaine de Vaucluse
Where to stay: Logis Hôtel Restaurant du Parc
Fontaine de Vaucluse is a town in Provence at the source of the Sorgue River. It’s famous for inspiring the works of poets like René Char, Francois Petrarque, and Frédéric Mistral.
Fontaine de Vaucluse is a town in Provence at the source of the Sorgue River.
Photo by DaLiu on Shutterstock
Unlike other spots in the Provence region, this town is suitable for families with young kids, especially those who want to incorporate outdoor activities like kayaking into their itinerary.
Dordogne Valley
When it comes to visiting Medieval castles, the Dordogne Valley is one of the best regions to explore, often referred to as the land of 1,001 castles. Beyond the dramatic landscapes, the region is also known for its foie gras and truffles, making it popular amongst food lovers.
1. Autoire
Where to stay: Manoir de Laroque Delprat
Autoire is an old-school town that feels like a love letter to French culture. Rated as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Autoire sits on the fringes of the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park. The town is famously nicknamed “Petit Versailles” with its stunning manors and estates, including Château de Laroque-Delprat. July is peak season for visiting Autoire as the town offers a fireworks display, Embrasement des Falaises, at the limestone cliffs close to the town.
Autoire is famously nicknamed “Petit Versailles” with its stunning manors and estates.
Photo by milosk50 on Shutterstock
Occitanie
Occitanie is a region in southern France that covers over 200km of Mediterranean coastline and includes a range of UNESCO World Heritage sites. This region is ideal for travelers who want to blend a love for the outdoors with the ability to step back in time at historical sites.
1. Minèrve
Where to stay: La Maison Mirava
Minèrve is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, although its rocky peninsula setting may initially confuse some visitors. It’s ideal for a day trip, and its double-arched bridge is where most tourists choose to take their vacation photos. The remains of the 13th-century castle are worth exploring, but the town itself feels like stepping into an immersive museum. Ancient history enthusiasts will want to head to Aldène Grotto, an archeological site just 2.5 miles from the town.
Minèrve is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Photo by Mazur Travel on Shutterstock
2. Marseillan
Where to stay: Rue Galilee
Travelers who want to experience the best of the Mediterranean Coast will want to spend at least a long weekend in Marseillan. Nestled at the entrance of the Étang de Thau lake, this seaside town feels like a postcard brought to life with its cobblestone streets, quaint restaurants, and busy harbor. It’s a great spot for windsurfing and sailing, but Marseillan is also famous for being the home of Noilly Prat, the original French vermouth producer, who offers tours and tastings. Marseillan is the ultimate alternative to visiting the Champagne region for tourists who prefer a stiffer drink.
Marseillan feels like a postcard brought to life with its cobblestone streets, quaint restaurants, and busy harbor.
Photo by FredP on Shutterstock
3. Carcassonne
Where to stay: La Cour Carrée
Did you know that Carcassonne is the second most-visited place outside of Paris after Mont Saint-Michel? It’s easy to mistake this medieval city for the set of a fantasy movie with its 52 towers and double-walled ramparts. While it’s free to explore most of this fortified city, the 12th-century Château Comtal fortress and the ramparts require a paid ticket.
It’s easy to mistake Carcassonne for the set of a fantasy movie.
Photo by Georgios Tsichlis on Shutterstock
Most tourists will start their day exploring the castle before heading to the lower town of La Bastide Saint-Louis for wine tasting, souvenir shopping, and exploring the Place Carnot market. It’s also worth visiting the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, which blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture with its stained-glass windows.
Normandy
Normandy has no fewer than 7 villages that have all made the list of France’s most beautiful villages. This historic part of northwestern France is a popular destination for those interested in World War II history, but its stunning coastline is also home to rich medieval history, including Mont-Saint-Michel. Normandy offers something for every type of traveler, from seeing the 900-year-old Bayeux Tapestry to sampling the best of French cheese, including Camembert cheese, and retracing the steps of the D-Day landings.
1. Barfleur
Where to stay: Le Conquérant
Barfleur is tucked away in the corner of the Cotentin peninsula, overlooking the English Channel. It encapsulates the traditional Normandy countryside and is famous for its mussels. This small fishing village has just 650 residents and is nicknamed the “Pearl of the Val de Saire” with its scenic harbor and Gatteville Lighthouse, the second-highest in France.
Barfleur encapsulates the traditional Normandy countryside.
Photo by bensliman hassan on Shutterstock
Most visitors to Barfleur arrive in France via Cherbourg port, which is just a 30km journey from the village. Tourists who are planning a one-day visit to Barfleur will want to aim for a Saturday, which is traditionally market day for the town, although these often also occur on a Tuesday during summer.
2. Veules-les-Roses
Where to stay: VVF Normandie Veules-les-Roses
Veules-les-Roses is where you’ll find the smallest river in France. While the town is known for its Veulaise oyster, it’s also gained a reputation as a floral paradise with the roses and flowers that give the town a romantic feeling throughout the spring and summer.
Veules-les-Roses is somewhere to visit for a slower vacation, one that focuses on indulging in authentic cuisine and taking scenic walks.
Photo by PRILL on Shutterstock
As one of the original holiday resorts in the 19thcentury, Veules-les-Roses made a name for itself as a favorite destination amongst artists and creatives, including Victor Hugo, the author of Les Misérables and the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Veules-les-Roses is somewhere to visit for a slower vacation, one that focuses on indulging in authentic cuisine, taking scenic walks, and learning about the local history.
FAQs about The Best Places to Visit in France Beyond Paris
Do I need to rent a car to visit these French towns?
Although France has an expansive public transport network, the easiest way to reach most of these towns is by renting a car. Most towns won’t have direct access to a train station, and France’s motorway system, known as autoroutes, is easy to navigate with all major tolls accepting both credit and debit cards.
What is the best time of year to visit the French countryside?
Visitors will get the best deals on a trip to the French countryside when visiting during the shoulder months of May to June and September to October. The weather is more enjoyable than the summer heat, especially for outdoor activities, and the smaller crowds make it easier to visit popular attractions.
Is English widely spoken in small French villages?
While English is widely spoken in most cities, visitors will want to learn at least a little conversational French before visiting. Basic phrases like “Bonjour” (bon-zhuor), “s’il vous plait” (seel voo pleh), and “parlez-vous anglais?” (pahr-lay voo ahn-glay) will go a long way. It’s also a good idea to download apps like Google Translate to automatically translate menus, timetables, and directions in real-time.
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Cover image: Photo by Adrien Stachowiak on Unsplash
