If you’re looking for the best places in France for a sensational European escape, you’re in for a treat. This country boasts an incredible range of landscapes, from lush, verdant valleys to mountains dusted with snow, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler. Deciding exactly where to go in this diverse nation can be a challenge, but it’s certainly a delightful one.
There are a plethora of towns and cities in France that will appeal to a variety of travelers. Whether you seek the viticultural delights of Bordeaux or the cultural captivation of Strasbourg, you are certain to find somewhere that suits your desires.
To help you on your journey, we’ve listed 5 of the best places to visit in France that are worth seeing. For each spot, we include the top attractions and things to do which make them incredible travel destinations in France. So keep reading for top tips and inspiration for your next French vacation.
Bordeaux of ocurse is one of the Best Places in France for Wine
France is synonymous with wine and there is no place better to dive into the rich offering than Bordeaux. The vineyards around Bordeaux produce some of the best wines in the world, so a visit to the renowned wineries is a must. As you wander the historic streets of the city you’ll notice quaint cafes and bustling markets which add a great deal of charm to the local atmosphere.
Bordeaux has some amazing attractions and landmarks that are perfect for sightseeing. The Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum showcases 2000 years of wine-making history, so it’s a great place to visit to learn more about Bordeaux’s viticultural heritage. Likewise, the Cathédrale St-André is a stunning example of French architecture and masonry.
One of the unmissable features of Bordeaux is the Place de la Bourse, an open square in the city centre with a mesmerising mirrored water feature. It’s a great place to capture magical photos of the city skyline, especially in the evenings when the water reflects the dazzling city lights.
Meribel is one of the Best Places to Visit in France for Snow
If you’re seeking a winter wonderland on a trip to France, then Meribel will not disappoint. Situated in the Three Valleys ski area, Meribel is characterized by breathtaking mountain scenery and top-notch skiing.
Meribel has slopes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers looking for last minute getaways from sno holidays. The extensive network of runs is exceptionally maintained and with a ski season lasting from November to April, there is so much time to enjoy the soft powder. Aside from skiing, you can also enjoy cosy chalets and sumptuous restaurants for a luxurious alpine escape.
It’s not all about slopes and apres ski though. In the summer, Meribel offers excellent hiking and cycling trails through the French Alps, which is ideal for those looking for an out-of-season adventure.
Lyon
One of the best reasons to visit France is the impeccable gastronomy and there is no place better to experience it than the culinary capital Lyon. The pristine city boasts an amazing food scene, whether you want to stop into a local eatery or treat yourself to the finest dining. You’ll find plenty of places to tuck into delicious Lyonnais specialties like cervelle de canut.
Though the dishes of Lyon are legendary, there are also plenty of things to do which make it one of the best places to visit in France. Start by exploring the Old Town, where you can wander the cobbled streets and take in the exquisite Renaissance architecture. You can also visit the Confluence Museum, which contrasts with the Old Town due to its contemporary design.
There are some astonishing sites in Lyon that will appeal to all sorts of travelers. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site and offers idyllic views of the city. On a sunny day, head to the Parc de la Tête d’Or, where you can enjoy a tranquil escape and explore the vibrant botanical gardens.
Strasbourg
Those seeking a cultural experience should visit Strasbourg, a captivating city on the border of France and Germany. Strasbourg seamlessly combines French and German culture, letting you enjoy the best of both when you visit. Be sure to take advantage of the canals and explore the city on a boat tour.
Strasbourg has some of the most picturesque areas that make it an excellent city break. Explore the Old Town set on its own island in the River Ill and wander through the Cathédrale Notre-Dame which dominates the skyline. You can also explore the La Petite France neighborhood, with timber-framed houses and charming bridges.
The benefit of visiting Strasbourg is that it’s a great place to start a tour of the Alsace Wine Route, one of the oldest in France. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that Alsace is the only region in France that produces beer, so you can still enjoy a tasting evening if you aren’t fond of wine.
Paris
Of course, we couldn’t talk about the best places to visit in France and not mention its iconic capital. It seems Paris needs no introduction, being a global hotspot for fashion, art and romance. It’s a great starting point for a trip to France and captures the very essence of the country in the most magical way.
The city has a range of famous landmarks that offer so much cultural insight. From the panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower to the imposing Gothic architecture of Cathédrale Notre-Dame, there is so much to explore. Art lovers in particular will delight in the exhibitions at the Louvre Museum whereas fans of science will be taken by the fascinating finds in the National Museum of Natural History.
Aside from the top sites, Paris also features charming neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais, where you will find decadent dining and alluring fashion boutiques. Likewise, you can savor an enchanting stroll along the Seine River which winds through the city. With such elegance and artistic ambience, it’s clear that Paris is the place to go for those seeking a quintessentially French experience.
Summary
There are so many wonderful places to visit in France and this list just scratches the surface of what you can experience in this fabulous country. Cities like Bordeaux and Lyon showcase the very best of France’s wine and gastronomy, making them perfect places for foodies. Those seeking winter adventures will have a thrilling adventure in Meribel, where the well-manicured slopes offer endless snow-filled fun.
Travelers seeking cultural enlightenment will be blown away by the charms of Strasbourg, where the very best of German and French life can be experienced. Nevertheless, travelers who want a taste of France’s luxury and opulence will find everything they need and more on the picturesque streets of Paris.
With so much to see and do, France remains one of the best travel destinations for those looking for variety and wonder. Whether it’s history you seek or culinary delights, France promises to impress.
