If you had to take a tour of France for your next holidays, where would you go? We suggest you discover the 12 most beautiful cities in France.
Why would you always want to go away when you have the chance to visit France. This tiny country in the center of Europe is the most visited country in the world. For more than a century, France has been one of the favourite destinations of travellers. And if you had to focus on your own country before traveling to the end of the world, what places would you visit? In charge of history and a unique cultural heritage in the world, each French region has treasures. We invite you for a tour of the French heritage, to discover the 12 most beautiful cities in France.
1. Paris
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It is impossible not to start this ranking by the French capital. While Paris is the most visited city in the world, its visit is essential. There are so many things to discover in the capital that it would be impossible to establish an exhaustive list.
Have you ever come to Paris? Start by visiting unmissable places such as Eiffel Tower , the Museum Louvre , the avenue des Fields, mythical neighborhoods like Montmartre , Sacred Heart , the docks Seine . Enjoy French cuisine in one of the many Parisian bistros. Their cuisine and refinement are no secret to anyone. Discover the many art galleries, exhibitions of famous or unknown artists, shows of theatre . Walk through the gardens and parks of the City of Light. Make this first meeting an unforgettable moment.
2. Lyon
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The geographical location of the city of Lyon makes it one of the most appreciated French cities in the country. Located between the Central Massif and the Alpine Massif, the city is in the south. Often considered a small Paris, it is classified in UNESCO World Heritage .
Are you an amateur of French gastronomy? It is impossible not to visit Lyon, renowned for its tasty and exceptional quality dishes. Start by looking at Place Bellecour, which is Europe’s largest square. Then go through old Lyon with its famous traboules. These are passages arranged between two streets through building courses often dating from the fourth century. Make a historic jump by visiting the Roman remains of Fourvière that are more than 2000 years old.
Lyon is also a party town. Don’t hesitate to discover the surrounding nights of the city through the famous Saint-Jean district. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in France.
3. Annecy
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Named the pearl of the Haute-Savoie Annecy is transporting. It is certainly the quietest city of this list. The beauty of the city is characterized by its famous Lake and his Venetian allure. Between mountains and canals in the heart of the city, there is no doubt, Annecy has a sense of paradise between two worlds.
Annecy’s old town is a delight. Take a look at the small streets connected to each other by channels. It is thanks to the latter that it is nicknamed “ Venice des Alpes". Discover the Palace of the Isle which sits on a triangular island on the canal of the Thiou. Go through Annecy Castle for a visit to the historic city. On top of that, go round the lake renowned as one of the purest in Europe. Depending on the season of your visit, various activities are implemented. There are also many religious sites and buildings in Annecy. Do not hesitate to rent a bike on site to enjoy this green setting and to make the fresh air.
4. Nice
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The famous city of Côte d’Azur is a real Eden on earth. Its landscapes are grandiose, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps. The city of Nice attracts many tourists throughout the year. Its key temperatures and its festive atmosphere make it a place of choice.
Start your visit by the famous English ride along the sea. Discover the Matisse Museum or the Baie des Anges. Take the paved streets of old Nice. Let yourself be tempted by an aperitif on the terrace. So enjoy the famous Niçois dishes, such as socca, pealadière or even the little stuffed.
5. Biarritz
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This seaside resort is known as the French capital of surfing. It is a jewel of the Atlantic coast. Blottie between vestiges of the past and a rich cultural heritage, the charism of this city will charm you from your first visit.
Like all the most beautiful cities in France, there is no shortage of things to do in Biarritz. Discover the Basque culture and specialties through the Halles of the city. Afterwards, discover the lighthouse at the tip of Saint-Martin. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Plateau de l’Atalaye. Enjoy subjugating discoveries with the sea museum. Finally finish the day with an unforgettable sunset on the rock of the Virgin.
6. Montpellier
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How not to talk about the joyful city of the Occitania . The city of Montpellier calls for astonishment and wonder. Indeed, it is a strong place for French culture and arts. Its architecture is world-renowned. Its success is global thanks to the trams designed by Christian Lacroix elected the "sexiest of the world".
First, discover the historic centre, nicknamed the Ecusson, entirely pedestrian. Go through the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre or the Anatomy Museum or Fabre . Enjoy the pleasures of contemplating the beautiful gardens of plants of the city. Finally, finish your day in one of the many establishments in the city, renowned for their nightlife.
7. La Rochelle
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Known as the white town, this town of Charente-Maritime deserves to be discovered. Whether you're a cultural, urban or nature trip, there's one for all tastes in La Rochelle. Go to the discovery of the old town symbolized by the door of the big clock. Thus, discover the streets with arcades, atypical charms. Continue by the old port to admire the towers of La Rochelle.
Finish your stay by the Charruyer Park which makes more than forty hectares on two kilometers long. The city is known to host successful festivals, such as Les Francofolies de La Rochelle. To this end, don’t hesitate to visit La Rochelle, one of the most beautiful cities in France during a cultural event. Enjoy the moment to discover the places.
8. Saint-Malo
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This Breton city has the full attention of European travellers. Its calm and beautiful seaside town make it a great place to relax. Thus, come and admire Brittany as you have never seen. The Corsary City offers attractive places such as the ramparts and the Cathedral of Saint Vincent of Zaragoza. After that, go inside the ramparts, intra-muros. Here you can see the Chateaubriand square or the floors of the Asfeld hotel.
Then discover a remarkable phenomenon, which is lived daily in Saint-Malo. Great tides are exceptional. The city houses the largest tides in Europe. The show of waves coming to ground on the dike at the time of the full sea is striking. Conversely, the low tide leaves room for large sand and rock banks, completely changing the scenery. Not far is an exceptional place, the famous Mont Saint-Michel.
9. Bordeaux
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It is the world capital of wine but its architecture is equally captivating. Bordeaux is one of the most beautiful cities in France. Its 18th century architecture and its lively neighbourhoods make it a popular city.
Between majestic palaces, green public gardens, or renowned museums, there is a large French cultural heritage to discover in the city. With its famous monuments such as the Pey Berland Tower, the Cathedral of Saint-André, or its historical districts such as Saint-Pierre, there is no way to get bored here.
10. Marseille
Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde and the old port of Marseille, France » width= »1000′ height= »667′′ class= »size-full wp-image-100906′ / Similar Credit: Shutterstock – S-F
Located in the south of France, Marseille is a Provencal city that has remained faithful to its traditions, rich in an incredible historical heritage and fabulous landscapes. In addition to its typical Provencal charm, its Old Port, its renewed neighborhoods of the Basket and the Docks, its calanques Wild, cathedral or seaside park of Prado.
You will also have the chance to discover its gastronomy or the folklore of its inhabitants. In short, you won't be bored in Marseille!
11. Toulouse
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Known for its place of the Capitole and its terracotta bricks, there is much more to see in the Rose City . Indeed, its perfectly preserved heritage has been fuelled by different centuries and movements. Toulouse Languedocienne, Toulouse Renaissance or Toulouse spatial, the city has multiple facets, making the South-West metropolis unique.
Between pastel, violet, cassoulet and singing accent, the Toulouses have something to seduce visitors. With a rich historical heritage and sumptuous monuments, the famous “Red City” is one of the most beautiful cities in the country.
12. Strasbourg
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The capital of Alsace and the Grand East region, Strasbourg has also been the parliamentary capital of Europe since 1949. Ancient and historical city, it obviously houses an incredible historical heritage, like its center of the Grande World Heritage Island the Unesco . But there is not only its heritage that makes its success!
Strasbourg is also famous for its famous Christmas market and for its typical Alsatian cuisine. You can also visit her Cathedral , its Palais Rohan or its charming Petite France neighborhood.
Among the most beautiful cities in France, what is your favourite destination?
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