Discover the Charm of France: Top 15 Cities to Visit

Author: Nidhi Sood on Apr 03,2023

France is a country that has a lot to offer to travelers. From stunning beaches to snow-capped mountains and charming villages to bustling cities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. One of the biggest draws of France is its cities, which are known for their rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. In this article, we will explore the best cities to visit in France, considering attractions, food, and local culture. 

Whether you are interested in exploring the romantic streets of Paris, the sunny beaches of Nice, or the gastronomic delights of Lyon, there is sure to be a French city that will capture your heart. So, get ready to journey through France's best cities and discover each destination's unique charm and beauty.

Top 15 Cities To Visit In France

1. Paris

No list of France's best cities is complete without mentioning Paris. It is the capital city and is considered one of the world's most beautiful and romantic cities. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, museums, art galleries, and charming cafes. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, and it is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city.

Things To Do

• Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and take in the views of the city.
• Explore the world-class art at the Louvre Museum.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre.
• Wander through the Luxembourg Gardens and relax by the fountains.
• Indulge in the famous French cuisine at local bistros and cafes.

2. Nice

Located in the south of France, Nice is another city you should add to your list of places to visit. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and warm climate. The Promenade des Anglais is a famous attraction in Nice, and it is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze.

Things To Do

• Soak up the sun and enjoy the beaches of the French Riviera.
• Visit the colorful flower market in the Old Town.
• Walk along the Promenade des Anglais and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Explore contemporary art at the MAMAC Museum.
• Taste the local cuisine, including socca and pissaladire.

3. Lyon

Lyon is a city located in eastern France, and it is known for its rich history and culture. The city has a well-preserved old town, and it is home to some of the best restaurants in France. Lyon is also famous for its silk industry, and you can still see the influence of this industry in the city's architecture.

Things To Do

• Visit the stunning Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvire and take in the views of the city.
• Explore the old town and its charming streets and alleys.
• Sample the famous Lyonnaise cuisine, including coq au vin and quenelles.
• Visit the Muse des Beaux-Arts de Lyon for an impressive collection of art.
• Take a stroll through the Parc de la Tte d'Or and enjoy the botanical gardens and zoo.

4. Marseille

Marseille is another coastal city that is worth a visit. It is located in the south of France and is the second-largest city in the country. Marseille is known for its vibrant culture and stunning coastline. The city has a rich history and is home to many museums and art galleries.

Things To Do

• Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for views.
• Explore the Old Port.
• Take a boat tour to see the Calanques coastline.

5. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located in eastern France and is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque canals. The city is home to many museums and art galleries and is also famous for its Christmas markets. Strasbourg is a great city to visit if you want to experience a mix of French and German culture.

Things To Do

• Take a boat tour of the canals
• See the Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Explore the Petite France district

6. Bordeaux

Bordeaux is located in the southwest of France and is known for its wine industry. The city has a rich history and is home to many museums and art galleries. The Place de la Bourse is one of the most famous attractions in Bordeaux, and it is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Things To Do

• Visit the Muse des Beaux-Arts.
• See Place de la Bourse.
• Enjoy wine tastings in nearby vineyards.

7. Toulouse

Toulouse is a city in southwestern France known for its pink buildings. The city is home to many museums and art galleries and is known for its aerospace industry. Toulouse is a great city to visit if you want to experience a mix of history, culture, and science.

Things To Do

• Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin
• Explore the Jardin des Plantes
• Sample local cuisine

8. Avignon

Located in southeastern France, Avignon is known for its rich history and culture. The city is home to many museums and art galleries and is famous for its annual theatre festival. The Palais des Papes is one of the most famous attractions in Avignon, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Things To Do

• Visit the Palais des Papes.
• Explore the Pont Saint-Bnzet.
• See Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral.

9. Annecy

Annecy is a small city located in the eastern part of France and is known for its stunning views and picturesque canals. The city is home to many museums and art galleries and is famous for its lake. Lake Annecy is one of the most beautiful lakes in France and is a great place to enjoy water activities.

Things To Do

• Enjoy Lake Annecy and the mountains.
• Stroll through the Old Town.
• Visit the Chteau d'Annecy.

10. Nantes

Nantes is a city located in western France, and Nantes is a city located in western France and is known for its vibrant culture and history. The city has a well-preserved old town, home to many museums and art galleries. The Chteau des Ducs de Bretagne is one of the most famous attractions in Nantes, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Things To Do

• See the mechanical elephant at Les Machines de l'le
• Visit the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany
• Explore the arts scene

11. Montpellier

Montpellier is a city in south France known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful architecture. The city is home to many museums and art galleries and is famous for its annual music festival. The Place de la Comdie is one of the most famous attractions in Montpellier, and it is a great place to enjoy a coffee and people-watch.

Things To Do

• Walk through the Antigone neighborhood.
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts.
• Relax on the beach.

12. Rouen

Rouen is a city in northern France known for its rich history and culture. The city has a well-preserved old town, home to many museums and art galleries. The Rouen Cathedral is one of the most famous attractions in Rouen, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Things To Do

• Visit Rouen Cathedral.
• Explore the Old Town.
• See the Gros Horloge clock.

13. Cannes

Cannes is a coastal city in southern France known for its glamour and luxury. The city is famous for its annual film festival, home to many luxurious hotels and boutiques. The Promenade de la Croisette is one of the most famous attractions in Cannes, and it is a great place to enjoy a walk and admire the stunning views.

Things To Do

• Visit the glamorous Cannes Film Festival and see the famous Palais des Festivals.
• Walk along the Croisette and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Visit the Museum of the Sea for an exciting look at Cannes' maritime history.
• Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of le Saint-Honorat and le Sainte-Marguerite.
• Indulge in the local cuisine, including bouillabaisse and ratatouille

14. Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is another coastal city in southern France known for its luxurious lifestyle and stunning beaches. The city is famous for its yacht-filled harbor and is a popular destination for celebrities and the wealthy. The Place des Lices is one of the most famous attractions in Saint-Tropez, and it is a great place to enjoy a drink and people-watch.

Things To Do

• Relax on the stunning beaches, including Plage de Pampelonne.
• Visit the stunning Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
• Explore the charming streets and alleys of the old town.
• Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of le des Porquerolles and le de Port-Cros.
• Taste the local cuisine, including bouillabaisse and tarte tropzienne.

15. Dijon

Dijon is a city in eastern France known for its rich history and culture. The city is famous for its mustard, and you can still see the influence of this industry in the city's architecture. The Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy is one of the most famous attractions in Dijon, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Things To Do

• Sample local mustard and wine.
• Visit the Ducal Palace.
• Explore the Old Town.

Conclusion

In conclusion, France's cities offer travelers many experiences and sights. The rich history, architecture, and culture of each city make them unique and worth exploring. Whether you're wandering through the streets of Paris, enjoying the beaches of Nice, or indulging in the cuisine of Lyon, there's always something new and exciting to discover. With so many cities to choose from, planning your France itinerary may be overwhelming, but it's worth exploring multiple cities to get a taste of the diverse offerings of France. So, start packing your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of France's best cities.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit France?

The best time to visit France is from April to June or September to November when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

What is the most famous attraction in France?

The most famous attraction in France is the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

What is the best way to get around France?

The best way to get around France is by guided tours if you visit for the first time. Otherwise, you can explore various bike tours in France that offer breathtaking views and a thrilling ride.

Do I need a visa to visit France?

It depends on your nationality. Check with the French Embassy in your country for visa requirements.

What is the currency used in France?

The currency used in France is the Euro.

What is the prettiest city in France?

France has many beautiful cities, but it is difficult to choose just one as the prettiest. Some of the most beautiful cities in France include Paris, Lyon, Nice, Strasbourg, and Bordeaux.

What are the top three cities in France?

According to many travelers, France's top three cities are Paris, Marseille, and Lyon. Paris is known for its iconic landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Marseille is a vibrant port city with a rich history and culture, and Lyon is a gastronomic paradise with stunning architecture and scenic views.

Which city in France is best for foreigners?

Paris is one of the best cities in France for foreigners, as it is an international city with a diverse population and many English-speaking residents. Other popular cities with foreigners include Nice, Cannes, and Bordeaux, which all have large expat communities and a welcoming atmosphere.