If you’re searching for the top places to visit in France outside of Paris, you’re in the right place.
Yes — Paris is iconic. But when it comes to the top places to visit in France outside of Paris, the real magic lies in its hidden regions and scenic countryside.
Beyond the capital, you’ll find breathtaking coastlines, medieval villages, dreamy châteaux, sunflower-covered hillsides, and hidden gems that feel like a secret only locals know.
This curated list brings together 12 incredible destinations to visit across France, perfect for travelers who crave culture, nature, and authenticity.
Whether you’re dreaming of family-friendly adventures, romantic getaways, or peaceful escapes into nature, this guide will help you plan a trip that goes beyond the ordinary.
Each destination includes helpful travel tips, must-see sights, and inspiration for unique things to do — whether that’s kayaking through turquoise gorges, wandering through vineyard-covered hills, or strolling cobblestone streets that feel frozen in time.
✨ So if you’re ready to go off the beaten path and experience the real France… keep reading.
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Why Explore France Outside Paris?
Some of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris are where the real soul of the country shines brightest.
While Paris may be the glamorous gateway, the true richness of France lies in its diverse regions — from vineyard-covered hills and alpine lakes to medieval villages and coastal towns full of charm.
Traveling beyond the capital gives you the chance to slow down, enjoy authentic local experiences, and uncover landscapes and traditions that many visitors never see.
Choosing to explore beyond Paris means discovering family-friendly destinations filled with nature, history, and culture — all without the big-city crowds.
Whether you’re dreaming of canoeing beneath a château in the Dordogne, wandering through pastel-colored villages in Alsace, or relaxing on the beaches of Brittany, these places offer unforgettable moments.
This guide to the top places to visit in France outside of Paris will help you plan a trip full of beauty, discovery, and that quiet kind of magic that only rural France can offer.
Southern France Highlights: Where to Go Beyond Paris
Carcassonne : Step Into a Real-Life Medieval Fortress
Walking through Carcassonne feels like stepping straight into a storybook. This fortified city in southern France is one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for history lovers and families alike.
Surrounded by thick stone walls, watchtowers, and cobbled alleys, Carcassonne is the ultimate medieval escape — and kids will absolutely love exploring it!
Inside the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne, you can wander through the double ramparts, visit the Count’s Castle, and even catch a jousting show in summer.
The city also offers beautiful panoramic views over the Aude Valley and plenty of charming cafés where you can relax with a glass of local wine (or a chocolat chaud for the little ones).
It’s easy to spend a full day here soaking in the atmosphere — and the best part? Carcassonne is a fantastic stop on a southern France road trip.
👉 Already dreaming of turrets and towers? Check out this complete guide to visiting Carcassonne with kids, packed with medieval adventures, local tips, and nearby attractions.
📍 Location: Occitanie region, southern France — 1 hour by train from Toulouse
✴️ What we love: Double city walls, summer jousting tournaments, medieval castle views, walking through a real-life fairytale
📅 Best time to visit: May to June or September — warm weather, fewer crowds, and outdoor events
🧭 Local tip: Visit at sunset to see the citadel glow golden from the outer ramparts — it’s the best photo spot and usually quieter than midday.
Les Baux-de-Provence : Art, Ruins, and Hilltop Views
Perched high on a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains, Les Baux-de-Provence is one of the most dramatic and picturesque villages in southern France — and absolutely earns its place among the top places to visit in France outside of Paris.
With its medieval castle ruins, breathtaking views over olive groves and limestone cliffs, and an open-air museum feel, this village is a dream for curious kids and culture-loving parents alike.
The highlight for many visitors is the Château des Baux, where you can walk through ancient ramparts and see real medieval catapults in action.
But don’t miss the immersive light show at Carrières des Lumières, set inside a former quarry — it’s a stunning mix of art, music, and technology that captivates all ages.
After your visit, stroll through the stone-paved streets, pick up some Provençal lavender sachets, and enjoy a terrace lunch with sweeping valley views.
👉 Planning a Provence getaway? Don’t miss this insider guide to Les Baux-de-Provence — one of the best hilltop villages in southern France — including tips on parking, nearby hikes, and where to get the best ice cream in town.
📍 Location: Alpilles mountains, Provence — 30 minutes from Arles or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
✴️ What we love: Cliffside castle ruins, panoramic views, medieval catapults, immersive art shows at Carrières de Lumières
📅 Best time to visit: April to June or September — ideal for mild weather and golden-hour photos
🧭 Local tip: Arrive early in the morning to explore the château before tour buses arrive, then head to Carrières de Lumières when it opens to beat the heat.
Marseille : Grit, Culture, and the Mediterranean Coast
Often overlooked in favor of smaller Provençal towns, Marseille is actually one of the Best cities in France outside Paris, most exciting and culturally rich cities in southern France.
It’s bold, vibrant, and wonderfully authentic — and absolutely deserves a spot among the top places to visit in France outside of Paris. Whether you’re a family of foodies, art lovers, or beach seekers, Marseille has something for everyone.
Stroll through the colorful streets of Le Panier, hop on a boat to the Calanques National Park, or take in sweeping views from the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde.
The Old Port buzzes with life, especially in the early morning when fishermen sell their catch right from their boats. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Mucem — a stunning museum with interactive exhibits and a rooftop terrace overlooking the sea.
👉 Looking for where to eat, swim, and explore in Marseille? Dive into this family-friendly travel guide to Marseille, filled with food spots, secret beaches, and cultural gems.
📍 Location: Southern France, on the Mediterranean coast — direct TGV from Paris (~3h)
✴️ What we love: Vibrant Old Port, colorful Le Panier district, fresh seafood markets, boat trips to Calanques National Park
📅 Best time to visit: May to early July or September — sunny but less crowded than peak summer
🧭 Local tip: Skip the crowded beaches and head to Malmousque — a hidden local favorite for swimming and watching the sunset like a true Marseillais.
Montpellier : A Southern French City with a Creative Pulse
If you’re craving a city that blends history, sunshine, and a laid-back, youthful vibe, Montpellier might just surprise you.
This southern gem is one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for travelers looking to combine cultural depth with Mediterranean energy.
It’s a university town at heart, which gives it a dynamic, creative spirit — perfect for families who enjoy street art, science museums, and lively public squares.
The pedestrian-only Écusson (historic center) is full of elegant architecture, quirky boutiques, and sun-drenched terraces ideal for a coffee break.
The Place de la Comédie is the city’s buzzing heart, while the nearby Jardin des Plantes is a favorite with kids.
And if you’re visiting in summer, the beaches of the Languedoc coast are just a short tram or drive away.
👉 Want to see a different side of Montpellier? Discover these 7 unique things to do in Montpellier — perfect for travelers who love hidden gems and local charm.
📍 Location: Occitanie region, southern France — 3.5h from Paris by TGV, 1h from Nîmes
✴️ What we love: Car-free historic center (Écusson), street art, Jardin des Plantes, Mediterranean vibe, quick access to beaches
📅 Best time to visit: April to June or September — warm and sunny without the midsummer crowds
🧭 Local tip: Take tram line 3 to Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone for a beach day away from tourists — it’s peaceful, wild, and perfect for a picnic.
Rocamadour : A Sacred Village Hanging from a Cliff
Few places in France leave such a lasting impression as Rocamadour. Clinging to the side of a dramatic limestone cliff in the Dordogne Valley, this medieval village looks like something out of a fantasy film.
Its surreal setting and deep spiritual history make it one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris, especially if you’re traveling with kids who love castles, caves, and legends.
Once a major pilgrimage site, Rocamadour is still steeped in mystery and devotion.
Climb the 216 steps of the Grand Escalier to reach the sanctuaries, visit the Chapel of Notre-Dame with its Black Madonna, and take in the breathtaking views over the canyon below.
Families will also love exploring the nearby Gouffre de Padirac, an underground river cave that feels like an adventure straight out of a storybook.
👉 Ready to explore Rocamadour? Discover why this clifftop pilgrimage village in southwest France is a must-see — complete with tips for scenic walks, picnic spots, and local legends.
📍 Location: Dordogne Valley, Lot department — about 2h from Toulouse by car
✴️ What we love: Clifftop sanctuaries, the Black Madonna, panoramic views, Grand Escalier steps, nearby underground river cave (Gouffre de Padirac)
📅 Best time to visit: May, June, or September — pleasant weather and fewer tour groups
🧭 Local tip: Visit in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds, then enjoy dinner at a terrace overlooking the canyon — magical at sunset.
What are the best cities in France to visit besides Paris?
Desde la vibrante Marsella hasta la histórica Dijon, hay un montón de ciudades en Francia que combinan cultura, gastronomía y encanto local a su manera.
From vibrant Marseille to historic Dijon, there are countless cities across France that combine rich culture, amazing food, and unique local charm. These destinations offer a more authentic and often more affordable alternative to Paris — perfect for travelers looking to explore France off the beaten path.
Where to Go in Central & Western France Beyond Paris
The Loire Valley : Fairytale Castles and Scenic Vineyards
The Loire Valley feels like it was made for dreamy road trips, lazy picnics, and long walks through castle gardens.
Known as the “Garden of France,” this region is home to over 300 châteaux, rolling vineyards, and riverside towns that look like they belong in an illustrated storybook.
It’s one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris — especially if your family loves a mix of history, nature, and a touch of magic.
From the turreted towers of Château de Chambord to the elegant interiors of Château de Chenonceau, each castle has its own story to tell.
And between visits, you can cycle along the Loire à Vélo paths, enjoy wine tastings (juice for the kids!), and explore charming villages like Amboise and Chinon.
The region is also easy to reach by train or car from Paris, making it a perfect first step into the quieter, greener side of France.
📍 Location: Central France — 2h by train or car from Paris
✴️Don’t miss: Storybook châteaux (Chenonceau, Chambord), scenic vineyard routes, riverside cycling paths, charming towns like Amboise and Chinon
📅 Best time to visit: Late spring (May–June) or early autumn (Sept–Oct) — blooming gardens or grape harvest season
🧭 Local tip: Rent a bike and follow the Loire à Vélo trail — it’s one of the best ways to connect castles, vineyards, and villages at your own pace.
Curious to discover even more incredible places in France outside Paris? Keep reading to uncover hilltop villages, sun-soaked coastlines, ancient pilgrimage sites, and breathtaking natural wonders that showcase the true spirit of France — far from the capital’s crowds.
Bordeaux & Saint-Émilion : A Journey Through Wine and Time
If you’re dreaming of vineyard-covered hills, grand architecture, and slow travel moments, Bordeaux and nearby Saint-Émilion are calling your name.
This region is not only one of the world’s wine capitals, but also one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris, especially for families who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and beautiful countryside drives.
In Bordeaux, stroll along the Garonne River, admire 18th-century facades in the UNESCO-listed old town, and let the kids cool off at the Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
Then head just 40 minutes away to Saint-Émilion, a picture-perfect village surrounded by vineyards and underground wine cellars.
While the region is famous for its reds, it also offers peaceful walks, panoramic views, and even a monolithic church carved directly into the rock — guaranteed to impress visitors of all ages.
📍 Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, southwestern France — ~2h by train from Paris
✴️ Trip Highlights: World-class vineyards, 18th-century architecture, Saint-Émilion’s underground church, wine tastings in medieval cellars
📅 Best time to visit: September to October for harvest season, or May to June for green vineyards and wine festivals
🧭 Local tip: In Saint-Émilion, climb the Tour du Roy for panoramic views of the town and surrounding vineyards — perfect at golden hour.
Verdon Gorge : France’s Grand Canyon in Provence
Towering limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and winding mountain roads — welcome to the Verdon Gorge, one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders and without a doubt one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris.
Nestled in the heart of Provence, this spectacular canyon is a paradise for outdoor-loving families who want to trade museums for mountains (at least for a day or two).
Whether you choose to kayak along the emerald Verdon River, rent a paddle boat, or simply admire the views from scenic lookouts like Point Sublime, the experience is unforgettable.
There are hiking trails for all levels, safe swimming spots in nearby lakes like Lac de Sainte-Croix, and quiet picnic areas where you can truly disconnect.
It’s the kind of place where kids can splash in the water, parents can relax in nature, and everyone leaves feeling a little more in awe of the world.
📍 Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur — about 2h from Aix-en-Provence by car
✴️ What we love: Turquoise river, limestone cliffs, kayaking, paddle boats, scenic hikes, swimming in Lac de Sainte-Croix
📅 Best time to visit: June to early September — warm, sunny, and ideal for water activities
🧭 Local tip: Start your kayaking trip early in the morning to enjoy the calmest waters and fewer crowds — plus better light for photos inside the gorge.
Let’s head north to uncover some of the most charming and lesser-known places to visit in France — beyond the capital.
Top Destinations in Northern & Eastern France Beyond Paris
Mont Saint-Michel : France’s Floating Island Abbey
There’s nothing quite like the moment you first spot Mont Saint-Michel rising from the tidal flats — a fairytale island crowned with a spired abbey, surrounded by shifting seas and medieval stone walls.
It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, and without a doubt one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for both history lovers and wide-eyed children.
Depending on the tides, you can either walk across the causeway or witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the island becoming momentarily cut off from the mainland.
Once inside, climb the narrow lanes to reach the abbey, explore its echoing chambers, and enjoy sweeping views over the bay.
Families will love the sense of adventure here — the feeling of walking through time in a place that looks untouched by the modern world. Just make sure to check the tide schedule before you go!
📍 Location: Normandy coast — ~4h from Paris by train + shuttle or car
✴️ What we love: Tidal island setting, dramatic abbey, medieval streets, panoramic bay views, walking across the sand at low tide
📅 Best time to visit: March to June or September — good weather and more manageable crowds
🧭 Local tip: Check the tide schedule in advance — visiting during high tide is the most magical, when the island is fully surrounded by water.
Annecy : Canals, Mountains, and Old-World Charm
With its pastel façades, flower-lined canals, and glittering lake framed by snow-capped peaks, Annecy feels like the French answer to a fairytale.
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” this stunning alpine town is one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for families who love a mix of natural beauty and historical charm.
Spend your days wandering the cobbled streets of the Old Town, picnicking by the lake, or cycling the scenic greenway that hugs the shoreline.
Kids will love paddle boating or swimming in Lake Annecy’s crystal-clear waters during summer, while adults can soak up the relaxed pace and postcard-perfect views.
In winter, the nearby mountains offer easy access to family-friendly ski resorts — making Annecy a true all-seasons destination.
📍 Location: Haute-Savoie, French Alps — ~4h from Paris by train, 40 min from Geneva by car
✴️ What we love: Crystal-clear lake, flower-lined canals, pastel old town, cycling paths, year-round mountain views
📅 Best time to visit: June to September for lake activities, or December for Christmas markets and Alpine charm
🧭 Local tip: Rent a bike and circle Lake Annecy on the scenic greenway — it’s flat, family-friendly, and offers some of the best views in the Alps.
Reims : Where Champagne Meets Royal History
Located in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims offers the perfect blend of regal heritage and sparkling indulgence.
Just 45 minutes from Paris by train, it’s one of the most convenient yet underrated escapes — and without question one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for a day trip or a longer countryside retreat
— and without question one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for a day trip or a longer countryside retreat.
Step inside the awe-inspiring Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries, then head underground to explore the chalk cellars of world-famous Champagne houses like Taittinger or Pommery
While the bubbly may be the star of the show, the city is also full of green spaces, museums, and Roman ruins to explore.
It’s a surprisingly family-friendly destination — many cellars offer non-alcoholic tastings and visual tours, while kids will be fascinated by the dramatic Gothic architecture and hidden tunnels.
📍 Location: Haute-Savoie, French Alps — ~4h from Paris by train, 40 min from Geneva by car
✴️ What You’ll Enjoy Most: Crystal-clear lake, flower-lined canals, pastel old town, cycling paths, year-round mountain views
📅 Best time to visit: June to September for lake activities, or December for Christmas markets and Alpine charm
🧭 Local tip: Rent a bike and circle Lake Annecy on the scenic greenway — it’s flat, family-friendly, and offers some of the best views in the Alps.
Dijon : A City of Flavor in the Heart of Burgundy
Famous for its mustard but loved for so much more, Dijon is a feast for the senses.
This elegant city in Burgundy is one of the top places to visit in France outside of Paris for travelers who want to slow down and savor authentic French life — through food, architecture, and a laid-back rhythm that makes you want to linger.
Wander through medieval streets lined with timber-framed houses, visit the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and don’t forget to follow the “Owl Trail”, a self-guided walk that turns sightseeing into a fun family adventure.
The local markets are bursting with flavors — cheeses, gingerbread, wine, and of course, artisan mustard.
Dijon is also a gateway to the region’s famed vineyards, offering plenty of opportunities for scenic drives and relaxed countryside picnics.
📍 Location: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region — ~1h 40min from Paris by TGV
✴️ Key Highlights: Timber-framed houses, the Owl Trail walking route, mustard shops, bustling markets, access to Burgundy wine country
📅 Best time to visit: May to June or September — great weather and wine events without peak summer crowds
🧭 Local tip: Climb the Tour Philippe le Bon for a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops — go just before sunset for golden hour magic.
Still searching for the top places to visit in France outside of Paris?
This map will help you visualize and plan your ultimate French escape.
Interactive Map of the Best Places to Visit in France Beyond Paris
Use this map to plan your route, group destinations by region, or get inspired by France’s incredible diversity—from fortified cities to canyon adventures.
Conclusion: France Is So Much More Than Paris
It’s easy to see why Paris captures the world’s imagination — but once you step beyond the capital, you’ll discover a whole new side of France that’s rich, diverse, and utterly unforgettable.
Whether you’re drawn to castles, coastline, vineyards or valleys, the top places to visit in France outside of Paris — including both hidden gems and iconic destinations — promise a trip full of wonder.
Whether you’re planning a road trip with the kids, a romantic countryside escape, or a culture-filled holiday off the beaten path, these 12 destinations prove that the heart of France beats far beyond the Eiffel Tower.
So pack your curiosity, rent that car or book that train, and go explore the France that locals know and love.
✨ Ready to dive deeper? Keep exploring the blog for more detailed guides, hidden gems, and family-friendly tips to help you create a trip that’s as unique as your own story.
Bon voyage! ✨
Now it’s your turn — which of these destinations off the beaten path would you love to explore first? Or do you have your own pick for the best place to visit in France outside of Paris? Let me know in the comments below — I’d love to hear where France has captured your heart! 💬🇫🇷
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Dear reader,
This article has been written by me, Diego. Who has lived in France for many years and traveled this beautiful country for many more! And is inspired by his own and his family’s experiences and tastes.
I love to spread the word about France’s charming villages and all there is to do around here and I know that many times organizing a trip can be complicated. That’s why, through my guides, I try to inspire you and help you in your planning.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and, above all, that it has been useful.
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