Bonjour! So you are planning a trip to France and want to know where to spend your time. Well wonder no longer! Whether you are going to France for a weekend, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks or even a month in France, then get some French city inspiration of where to spend your time. From the capital city of Paris, to the Bordeaux wine region to the sunny Riviera, there is a French city just waiting to be discovered. Read on and get some inspiration from 16 of the best cities in France to visit for your next French holiday.

Where is France?

France is a country in Europe. It shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra and Spain. Plus has a coastline facing the Mediterranean Sea and the English Channel.

How to Get to France?

There are many ways to get to France. You can fly into an airport such as Charles de Gaulle in Paris or any of the smaller airports. France is linked to other European countries by an extensive railway and road system so it is easy to get to France by train or by vehicle such as bus or car. You also have the option to sail by ferry from the UK across the English Channel or across the Mediterranean Sea.

How to Travel around France

France has an extensive road and rail system in place. Depending on the length of your visit to a city can determine how you will travel there. Are you going on a weekend escape while on a France working holiday? Then hop on a train or bus or hire and car for your weekend away. If you are have a week or more on a road trip around France you can easily drive yourself or link the cities by train or bus. If you want to rent a car check out DiscoverCars for rates and availability. Like traveling by train – look into a France rail pass or check out FlixBus for bus tickets.

Where to Stay in France? French Accommodation Options

France has plenty of accommodation available ranging from a bed in a hostel, to hotel rooms to luxurious resorts. When you know what city or cities you will be visiting book your accommodation through accommodation booking sites such as Booking.com. 

17 Best Cities to Visit in France

My map of 16 best cities to visit in France

France is home to many cities and there is plenty to see and do in them. If you are visiting France for the first time you may be struggling to choose which French cities to visit. So if you want some inspiration as to why you should spend time in a particular city in France, here’s why. Whether you want to get away for a weekend, day trip or travel around France on a road trip linking cities, I hope the following list of favourite French cities will help you make your French holiday dreams come true. Let’s start with the capital city of France, Paris.

Paris – the French Capital

Best French City in France of Sharyn at Discover Australia Now

Everyone sees this view on a visit to Paris

Paris is the capital of France and is usually the first stop on anyone’s holiday in France. And in my opinion one of the best cities to visit in France. After all, it has the most iconic French places to see – the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Cour, Notre Dame and The Louvre. And everyone wants to tick these places off their France bucket list during a visit to Paris.

While visiting these icons it is also nice to immerse yourself in all things French. French foodie lovers should sit in one of the cafes and enjoy a French delicacy while watching the world go by. Or shop till you drop in one of the designer boutiques – well Paris is the fashion capital of the world! Perhaps be a tourist on a sail boat along the River Seine. Or walk around the city, getting to know it intimately – just watch out on the cobbled streets if you are wearing high heels!

Rouen

Favourite French City of Faith at XYU and Beyond

Place Marche, Rouen

My favourite city in France, Rouen is a 90 minute drive from Paris. Spending 2 days in Rouen will allow you to see the highlights of this stunning city on the Seine.

This is the city where Joan of Arc was captured and burnt at the stake in 1431 at the Place du Vieux Marché. Rouen’s other nickname is the “City of 100 bell towers” by the famous writer Victor Hugo.

Rouen’s cobblestone streets are full of architectural wonders. The medieval half timbered houses and the famous gothic Rouen Cathedral are where you can see the tombs of William the Conqueror and Richard the Lionheart.

Around every corner you will find incredibly historic sites. The 14th c. Gros Horloge (Great Clock) an astronomical clock that sits in the centre of the city being one.

Other historic sites include the Palais de Justice where a recent discovery found a 12 century Jewish monument under the courtyard. Visit the Ossuary of Saint-Maclou the burial place of 75% of Rouen’s population that died from the Plague.

Rouen has also been recognised by UNESCO, crowning Rouen a “creative city” in the gastronomy category in 2021. Rouen is where the famous Chef Julia Child was introduced to French cuisine at the 14th century La Couronne restaurant.

Biarritz

Favourite French City of Kristin at Global Travel Escapades

La Grande Plage and the main city area in Biarritz 

If you’re looking for a relaxing place to pass through during your France road trip, consider Biarritz! This beautiful coastal town is a bit off the beaten path, which allows visitors to delve deeper into French culture as well as avoid heavy crowds! Not to mention, there are lots of attractions to fill your time in Biarritz!

For example, one must-see spot is the Phare de Biarritz. This lighthouse offers some of the best views of the coastline and is surrounded by scenic walking paths and benches to take in the sights. Or if you prefer to admire the beach up close, spend time at La Grande Plage or Côte des Basques Beach. Both are white sand beaches with waters perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply jumping in the waves. 

And for affordable food options, head over to Les Halles Market. You’ll find vendors selling everything from fresh goods to meats and souvenirs. Or, stop by a local seafood restaurant since the region is known for its fresh seafood!

In terms of how many days to stay, you can easily cover most of the city in two full days. However, if you want to use the city as a base for day trips, you can do so and visit nearby cities like Hendaye and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Overall, if you’re keen on visiting a laid-back French city, consider Biarritz! 

Metz

Favourite city of Martina at PlacesofJuma

Metz – one of the best cities to visit in France

Metz is a charming city in the northeast of France and definitely a highlight on an unforgettable road trip. This stop promises travelers a variety of experiences and beautiful attractions. Of particular interest is the historic old town of Metz. The city’s rich history is reflected, among others, by the imposing Saint-Étienne Cathedral, an impressive masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and at the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a modern marvel showcasing contemporary art.

In addition, the city of Metz has several green spaces and parks. A real highlight is the location directly on the Moselle River, where you can enjoy a dreamlike ambience. You should also visit the enchanting Jardin Botanique and the Parc de la Seille, both of which invite you to relax and enjoy. Beyond the city limits, the rolling vineyards of Lorraine offer opportunities for wine tasting and discovering local varietals. The food in Metz is also really good, as this city is known for its culinary delights. You should definitely try the famous Quiche Lorraine.

For an ideal visit, you should plan two to three days in Metz to explore the main sights. And thanks to its central location, you can easily use Metz as a base for day trips to nearby destinations, such as Nancy, famous for its 18th-century architecture and Art Nouveau heritage, or Verdun, a city steeped in World War I history. Metz is an ideal starting point to discover the diverse wonders of northeastern France on your road trip.

Lyon

Best French City to visit By Nes @ Kevmrc

Lyon City Hall on Place des Terreaux

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is an absolute gem that definitely should be visited at least once in your lifetime. It boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage with its own special features. In fact, its entire old town is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! 

There’s so much to see and do, you’ll need to spend at least a weekend in Lyon to fully discover it. The Vieux Lyon itself is an attraction in its own right with its Traboules, those unique tiny pedestrian passageways that allow you to cross from one street to another without being seen. There are also a number of lively squares, including Europe’s largest pedestrian square (Place Bellecourt), and stunning trompe-l’œil frescoes.  

A visit to the breathtaking Basilique de Fourvière is a must; you can spot it from nearly every corner of Lyon as it crowns the city from its hilltop perch. Lastly, be sure to explore the Saône riverbanks and the Parc de la Tête d’Or, both perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.

When it comes to food, Lyon is renowned as the capital of gastronomy. It’s unthinkable to leave Lyon without sampling its specialties or eating in a traditional Bouchon, the city’s iconic bistros where you can indulge in dishes like quenelles and andouillette. 

Lyon’s position is also ideal for day trips. It’s just a 1.5-hour drive from Annecy and Geneva in Switzerland and a 2-hour train ride from Marseille. So if you’re in the area, make sure to add Lyon to your list – you won’t regret it!

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

One of the best cities to visit in France of Cosette from KarsTravels

Saint Jean de Luz as seen from the beach

The beautiful small city of Saint-Jean-de-Luz on the Basque Atlantic coast has everything to be a perfect road trip stop. The town offers the beach, history and macarons.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a popular seaside resort. The Promenade Jacques Thibaud has a perfect view of the beach and the ocean. The place has several beaches on offer, the most famous being Grande Plage.

Due to its location at the ocean, it’s an old fishing and pirate town. Throughout the city you’ll see remnants of this history. Another historical fact is that in 1660 Louis XIV got married here to Spanish princess Maria Teresa. Several buildings are associated with this commitment, namely the Maison Louis XIV, the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the Maison de L’Infante Joanoenia.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is known for the Basque macaron, which was invented by Maison Adam. It’s a variation on the regular macaron and is delicious. If you’re more of a fan of the regular macaron, then visit one of the Pariès stores. La Rue Gambetta and Place Louis XIV are perfect for shopping and people watching.

I recommend a visit of 1 to 3 days. 1 to 1.5 days to see all the sites, 3 days to add some swimming and to have a relaxed pace.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a perfect base to explore the region. Fun day trips are Biarritz, Bayonne and San Sebastian in Spain.

Avignon

Favourite French city of Lucy and Dan from Thoroughly Travel

City of Avignon

Located in South East France, Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a city rich in history and culture. Set on the banks of the Rhône River, Avignon is known as the Gateway to Provence and is one of the best cities in France to include on a road trip.

The city is surrounded by Medieval ramparts and home to one of the largest Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. The Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) was once the seat of the Catholic Popes and is now a well-preserved 14th century palace and popular tourist attraction. Tickets can be bought in combination with the 12th century Pont Saint-Bénézet (also known simply as Pont d’Avignon), which is said to be most famous bridge in the world.

It’s worth spending 2-3 days in Avignon and exploring the charming streets, which are home to boutique gift shops, and local cafés and restaurants. Day trips near Avignon also include exploring Roman ruins in Nîmes, wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, kayaking under Pont du Gard and flamingo-spotting in the Camargue. Avignon is accessible by car via the A26, a long motorway that connects Calais and Troyes.

Nimes

One of the best cities to visit in France of Kim at Explore Your Bucket List

Lots of historic Roman sites to discover in Nimes

Located in the South of France, Nimes is a wonderful city to visit while in this region. It is known for its important historical significance with incredibly preserved Roman sites. Around every corner, you can see structures that are over 2000 years old including a 23,000 seat Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman Temples in the world, a Roman spring and sanctuary, and a tower that was part of the city’s original fortifications. It is like stepping back in time when you visit these amazing sites within the modern-day city of Nimes.

Another major highlight is the Jardins de la Fontaine. A stunning garden with terraces, wide open paths for strolling, statuary, and fountains to admire and canals running throughout. It is a pleasant spot to wander at any time of the year.

This city also offers many fabulous museums, grand churches, and local shopping. The streets are lovely to walk down while browsing for local specialties and the large plazas provide an inviting spot for a glass of wine or a Provencal meal.

Nimes is a perfect central location that can be used as a base for visiting the entire southern region of France. It is well-connected by the train system as a major hub. But be sure to give yourself at least two days to explore Nimes before venturing to other locales. If you enjoy discovering Roman ruins and learning about history, you will be in awe of this special place.

Chamonix

Favourite French town of Marjut of the Smooth Escape

Chamonix town centre with Mont Blanc behind

The charming alpine town of Chamonix is situated in a picturesque valley in the French Alps and is known as the adventure capital of France. Sitting right at the base of Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s tallest mountain, the town is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful scenery.

During the winter months, Chamonix offers fantastic conditions for skiing and other snow sports. In the summer, however, the town turns into a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who come here to marvel at the region’s snow-capped peaks, glaciers and alpine lakes.

Besides hiking and skiing, there are also plenty of other things to do in Chamonix. Some of the top activities include taking a cable car to Aiguille du Midi peak to get an up-close view of the majestic Mont Blanc and going on a scenic train ride to Mer de Glace glacier. 

The Chamonix town itself is also worth exploring. Its historic streets are full of beautiful architecture, small boutiques, artisanal shops and restaurants. For a taste of the local Savoyard cuisine, try some cheese fondue or raclette.

2-3 days are typically enough to do a few hikes and tick off most of the top attractions in Chamonix. However, for those that want to fully experience what the town has to offer, one week would be sufficient.

Nice

Favourite French city of Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Beautiful beaches are one of the things that make Nice one of the best cities in France to visit!

Nice is definitely one of the best cities in France to visit. Its location makes it a great base for a road trip along the French Riviera.  You’ll want to spend at least three days in Nice to see all that the city has to offer.

Some of the most popular attractions in Nice are its stunning beaches and the famous waterfront boardwalk, the Promenade des Anglais. Nice has even been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its history as a winter resort town on the French Riviera. But there is so much more to explore in Nice beyond its beaches. See incredible art museums such as the Musée National Marc Chagall and the Matisse Museum. Marvel at the Byzantine architecture of the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice. Or stop in for a cocktail at the elegant bar at the iconic Le Negresco hotel. Check out the Cours Saleya Marché Aux Fleurs in Vieux Nice for fabulous fresh produce and flowers.  And be sure to try some socca, a chickpea pancake that is a popular snack in Nice.

It’s very easy to use Nice as a hub for exploring additional amazing cities along the French Riviera. Èze and the glamorous city of Monte Carlo are only a half-hour drive from Nice, and Cannes and Antibes are about a 45-minute drive.

Reims

Favourite French city of Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Enjoy a glass or two of Champagne in Reims

Reims is one of the two major centres in the Champagne Wine Region of north-east France. It is a great place to visit if you want to learn about how champagne is made (and maybe to taste a little too). And, as it’s only 46 minutes from Paris by high-speed train, making it an easy day trip to Reims from Paris.

While wine has been produced in the region since the middle ages, champagne production really took off in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of the major champagne houses have cellars in Reims, including Ruinart, Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot and Pommery. There are plenty of options for champagne tours, including visits to vineyards, cellar tours and tastings.

Don’t worry if you’re not that into wine. There are plenty of other attractions in Reims. Top of the list is the architectural centrepiece of Reims, its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. It is considered to be one of the Gothic masterpieces and the intricate designs and tall towers are really quite impressive. Other Reims landmarks include Place Drouet d’Erlon and the Subé Fountain, Reims Town Hall and Place Royale.

Reims isn’t a big city, so you can get a good feel for it in a day, while two to three days would let you explore it pretty thoroughly. From Reims, you could also explore more of the Champagne Wine Region, including the nearby town Épernay, famous for the Avenue de Champagne.

Strasbourg

Favourite French city of April from Dreaming in French Blog

Traditional half-timbered houses in La Petite France

Strasbourg is one of the best French cities to visit if you want to travel back in time and experience a distinct fusion of French and German cultures. Situated in the Alsace region, this 2,000-year-old city is one of the most unique places to visit in France.

The city center of Strasbourg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is here where you will find the majority of the city’s attractions. The grandest of these is the Cathedral of Notre Dame, a Gothic masterpiece that is one of the most iconic buildings in France. Other notable sights include La Petite France, a beautifully renovated historic district featuring winding streets, half-timbered homes, the Koehler House Museum, the Ponts Couverts, and the Palais des Rohan.

Strasbourg also has one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets, and visiting the city during this season is truly enchanting. It is one of the best things to do in Strasbourg in December. With this amazing fusion of German and French influences, you get the best of both worlds!

To see the majority of Strasbourg’s attractions, two days is sufficient. Nevertheless, Strasbourg makes a great starting point for day trips to other nearby locations.. Towns like Colmar, Staufen, Baden-Baden, and Kaysersberg make for quick day trips from Strasbourg.

You won’t go hungry here, either, with a plethora of Alsace specialties. Germany and France have greatly influenced the cuisine and wine of Strasbourg. Well-known dishes like Flammekueche, a variety of sausages, Choucroute Garnie, and incredible, internationally renowned Alsace wine Gewürztraminer, are among the favorites.

Bordeaux

Favourite French city of Goya Galeotta

UNESCO-listed architecture of Bordeaux

Nestled in the French southwest, Bordeaux is a city rich in history, culture, and of course, wine. Its UNESCO-listed architecture showcases a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary allure. The stunning 18th-century architectural landscape, led by the iconic Place de la Bourse and mirrored by the Water Mirror nearby, makes it an essential stop on any French road trip.

The true highlight? Bordeaux’s renowned vineyards, particularly in Saint-Émilion and Médoc, where history, culture, and exceptional wine converge, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts and novices alike. But it’s not just about the wine; the city’s gastronomy stands out too. Local specialities like entrecôte bordelaise and canelés providing a delicious introduction to the city’s culinary scene.

Beyond the city limits, Bordeaux serves as a strategic base for unforgettable day trips. Feeling like exploring the enchanting Dordogne Valley, basking in the medieval charm of Saint-Émilion, or relaxing along the scenic shores of Arcachon Bay? No problem! Bordeaux isn’t just a stop; it’s the heartbeat of your southwestern France road trip. It’s an indispensable chapter in your adventure and the perfect weekend destination, promising discovery and delight at every turn.

Cannes

Favourite French city of Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes 

Overlooking the city of Cannes

Cannes is a renowned French city with a reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. It’s best known for its star-studded film festival. However, there’s so much more to this beautiful seaside city. It’s a great stop on a road trip for any visitor traveling France.

Cannes is an excellent stop on a road trip especially because of its location. There are picturesque driving routes along the riviera. Road trippers can see fantastic cities like Monaco, Eze, Villefranche-Sur-Mer, Nice, Antibes, and Cannes all in one close swoop. Drivers can also base themselves in one central city like Cannes or Nice and take the train to move quickly between the cities without the hassle of parking.

Cannes’ allure lies in its blend of luxury and history. Visitors can enjoy the sights of palatial hotels, as well as charming cobblestone streets. In the heart of the city, the Old Town (called Le Suquet) features narrow alleys. Walking up to the hilltop is a must for stunning views overlooking the city and water. 

Art lovers can appreciate the city’s vibrant cultural scene, from contemporary art galleries to classical music concerts. Foodies will find delight in Cannes’ seafood, with fresh catches brought in daily. Bouillabaisse is the local dish – it’s a rich fish stew.

To truly experience Cannes, I recommend at least 3 days. This will give you time for a walking tour, beach, and seaside fun.

Marseille

Favourite French city of Christine Rogador of Journey To France

Marseille is a vibrant and historic port city located in southern France on the Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of the Bouches-du-Rhône department and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. Marseille is the second-largest city in France after Paris. Marseille is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful coastal landscapes.

You can see or do so many things in Marseille; you can explore the beautiful port of Marseille, also known as Vieux-Port, wander along the picturesque harbor, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes overlooking the waterfront.

Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and climb the hill to this iconic basilica, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.  Don’t leave Marseille without trying its signature dish, bouillabaisse, a flavorful fish stew. You’ll find it in many local restaurants.

Consider a day trip to nearby towns and attractions, such as Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, and Avignon, to explore more of the Provence region, or the charming towns of South France is one of the best day trips from Marseille.

You can visit Marseille for a short stay of 1-2 days, giving you a taste of the city’s highlights. And you can extend a day if you’d like to explore more of the city and its nearby towns. Marseille has a lot to offer visitors, making it a worthwhile destination and one of the best cities in France to visit.

Lille

Favourite French city of Alex and Leah of Alex and Leah on Tour

Stroll along the river

Without a doubt one of the best cities in France to visit is Lille. Situated in northern France and nicknamed the Capital of Flanders, the best thing about Lille is there is so much to do. If you enjoy endlessly walking around the city then make sure to visit the La Vieille Bourse and Palais des Beaux for a sample of the beautiful and historic architecture the city has to offer.

Similarly, you absolutely must visit the Grande Place (main square) in the city. It has loads of great places to eat, drink and people watch. If you’ve never been before, it’s highly recommended you sample one of France’s famous hot chocolates which are like no other. They’re made from pure chocolate which has been melted down to fit into your cup! If you’re in the area then also be sure to head to La Creperie Grand Place. This family owned restaurant serves the absolute best sweet and savory crepes and is a great spot for a late breakfast! There’s tons of options so you’re bound to find something that tickles your taste buds. Oh, and the coffee is incredible!

Another activity you must do is visit the Zoo de Lille. It’s located just a short walk away from the Grande Place but a great alternative, especially if you’re with children.

Overall, the fact that Lille has such a relaxed atmosphere, is incredibly walkable and has a huge train station in EuraLille makes the city hugely popular with tourists all around the world. If you’re ever struggling with the best time to visit, why not explore the city for three days over Christmas?!

Are You Ready to Visit 16 of the Best Cities in France?

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