Paris may be France’s most famous destination, but the country’s true magic often lies beyond the capital.
While we love wandering through Parisian museums and cafés, some of our favorite memories in France come from lavender-scented roads in Provence, colorful villages perched on hilltops, Mediterranean sunsets along the Riviera, and places that inspired artists like Van Gogh and Cézanne.
From charming medieval towns to dramatic mountain landscapes and coastal escapes, these are some of the most beautiful places to visit in France beyond Paris.
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Beautiful places to visit in France
1. Gordes, Provence
Perched high above the Luberon Valley, Gordes is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Stone houses cascade down the hillside, narrow lanes wind through the village center, and every viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the Provençal countryside.
Visit in the morning before the crowds arrive and stay long enough to enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the valley.
Don’t Miss: Abbaye de Sénanque during lavender season.
Best Place to stay in Gordes:
Luxury: Airelles Gordes, La Bastide
One of the most iconic hotels in Provence with sweeping views over the Luberon Valley.
Boutique: Le Jas de Gordes
A charming Provençal retreat surrounded by gardens and olive trees.
2. Roussillon, Provence
Unlike many villages in Provence, Roussillon glows in shades of red, orange, and gold.
The village sits atop one of the world’s largest ochre deposits, giving its buildings and surrounding cliffs an almost surreal appearance.
Walking through its colorful streets feels like stepping into an artist’s palette.
Perfect For: Photography lovers and artists.
Best Place to stay in Roussillon:
Boutique: Coquillade Provence
A luxurious wine estate located near the ochre villages of the Luberon.
Charming Stay: Omma
A stylish boutique property within walking distance of the village.
3. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
For art lovers, Saint-Rémy is one of France’s most meaningful destinations.
This charming Provençal town is where Vincent van Gogh spent a year creating some of his most famous works.
The landscapes surrounding the town… olive groves, cypress trees, and rolling hills… remain instantly recognizable from his paintings.
Don’t Miss: The Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole where Van Gogh stayed.
Best Place to stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence:
Luxury: Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa
Close to Van Gogh’s asylum and surrounded by beautiful Provençal scenery.
Historic Stay: Hôtel de Tourrel
An elegant boutique hotel housed in a restored 17th-century mansion.
4. Aix-en-Provence
Elegant boulevards, bustling markets, fountains, and café-lined squares make Aix one of the most enjoyable cities in southern France.
It was also home to Paul Cézanne, whose influence can still be felt throughout the city.
Spend time wandering the historic center before venturing into the surrounding countryside.
Best For: Art, food, and Provençal charm.
Best Place to stay in Aix-en-Provence:
Luxury: Villa Gallici
A romantic, art-filled retreat that perfectly reflects the spirit of Provence.
Central Stay: Aquabella Hôtel & Spa
Convenient location near the historic center
5. Mont Sainte-Victoire
Just outside Aix-en-Provence rises one of France’s most iconic landscapes.
Mont Sainte-Victoire inspired Paul Cézanne to paint the mountain dozens of times, fascinated by the changing light and colors throughout the day.
Even today, it remains one of Provence’s most breathtaking sights.
Best Experience: Hiking one of the scenic trails for panoramic views.
6. Antibes
Nestled between Nice and Cannes, Antibes perfectly balances Riviera glamour with old-world charm.
Its historic old town, Mediterranean views, vibrant markets, and artistic heritage make it one of our favorite spots along the French Riviera.
Picasso once lived and worked here, and the town continues to attract artists from around the world.
Don’t Miss: Sunset walks along the old city walls.
Best Place to stay in Antibes:
Luxury: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc
One of the most legendary hotels on the French Riviera.
Boutique: La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa
An excellent base for exploring the Old Town and coastline.
7. Saint-Tropez
Despite its reputation for luxury and celebrity yachts, Saint-Tropez remains remarkably picturesque.
Beyond the marina, you’ll find colorful streets, lively markets, charming squares, and beautiful beaches.
Arrive early or stay overnight to experience its quieter side.
Best For: Riviera charm and coastal beauty.
Best Place to stay in Saint Tropez:
Luxury: Château de la Messardière
A palace-style retreat overlooking the Mediterranean.
Cheval Blanc St. Tropez is another great option! On my wishlist 🙂
Boutique: Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez
Stylish and centrally located.
8. Èze
Perched dramatically above the Mediterranean, Èze offers some of the most spectacular views on the French Riviera.
Its cobblestone lanes, stone buildings, and hilltop gardens feel almost untouched by time.
Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy view of the Côte d’Azur.
Don’t Miss: The Exotic Garden at the summit.
Best Place to stay:
Luxury: Château de la Chèvre d’Or
Possibly one of the most spectacular hotel settings in France.
Romantic Stay: Château Eza
A boutique castle hotel perched above the Mediterranean.
9. Nice
Nice combines the energy of a vibrant city with the relaxed atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast.
Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the colorful Old Town, and enjoy some of the best food in southern France.
We loved the view from our hotel which was located right on the promenade.
Nice also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Riviera.
Best For: Culture, beaches, and day trips.
Best Place to stay: We loved the views from our Nice Hotel Westminster
Luxury: Hotel Negresco
An iconic Riviera landmark filled with art and history.
Boutique: Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel
Perfect for exploring Old Nice.
10. Annecy
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy charms visitors with its canals, flower-lined streets, and crystal-clear lake.
The surrounding mountain scenery only adds to its appeal.
Whether you’re exploring the old town or cycling around the lake, Annecy is unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall.
Best Place to stay in Annecy:
Luxury: Impérial Palace
Lakeside luxury with beautiful mountain views.
Boutique: Les Trésoms Lake and Spa Resort
A peaceful escape overlooking Lake Annecy.
11. Colmar
With its half-timbered houses, flower-filled canals, and storybook atmosphere, Colmar feels like it belongs in a fairy tale.
Located in the Alsace region near the German border, it offers a unique blend of French and German influences.
While we were on our Germany road trip, we were so close to Colmar and Strasbourg but unfortunately didn’t make it there. So both places are still on my France Travel wishlist 🙂
Don’t Miss: The charming Little Venice district.
Best Place to stay in Colmar:
Luxury: La Maison des Têtes
A beautifully restored historic property in the heart of Colmar.
Boutique: Le Colombier
Located in the picturesque Little Venice district.
12. Strasbourg
Home to one of Europe’s most beautiful historic centers, Strasbourg combines medieval architecture with vibrant modern culture.
Its magnificent cathedral dominates the skyline, while picturesque canals weave through the old quarter.
Best For: History, architecture, and Christmas markets.
Best Place to stay in Strasbourg:
Luxury: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa
A refined stay steps from the cathedral.
Boutique: Hôtel Cour du Corbeau
One of the most charming historic hotels in France.
13. Chamonix
At the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix offers some of Europe’s most dramatic alpine scenery.
Whether you visit in summer or winter, the mountain views are spectacular.
Adventure seekers will find endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and outdoor exploration.
Don’t Miss: The Aiguille du Midi cable car.
Best Place to stay:
Luxury: Hôtel Mont-Blanc Chamonix
A classic luxury property in the heart of town.
Luxury Alpine Retreat: Hameau Albert 1er
A Relais & Châteaux property with exceptional Mont Blanc views.
14. Bordeaux (Still haven’t made it here)
Wine lovers will find plenty to adore in Bordeaux.
Beyond its famous vineyards, the city boasts elegant architecture, riverside promenades, and an exceptional food scene.
It is one of France’s most underrated city breaks.
Best For: Wine, gastronomy, and architecture.
Best Place to stay:
Luxury: InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel
An iconic hotel overlooking the Grand Théâtre.
Wine Country Stay: Les Sources de Caudalie
One of France’s premier vineyard hotels.
15. The Lavender Fields of Provence
Technically not a town, but no list of beautiful places in France would be complete without them.
Each summer, vast fields of lavender transform Provence into a sea of purple stretching toward the horizon.
The fragrance, colors, and peaceful atmosphere create one of the most memorable travel experiences in France.
See our 10 Day Provence and French Riviera Itinerary
Best Time to Visit: Late June through mid-July.
Where to Stay in France for the best memories
Best Luxury Stay in Provence
- Airelles Gordes, La Bastide
Best Hotel for Art Lovers
- Villa Gallici, Aix-en-Provence
Best French Riviera Hotel
- Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes
Best Romantic Escape
- Château de la Chèvre d’Or, Èze
Best Lakeside Retreat
- Impérial Palace, Annecy
Best Alpine Hotel
- Hameau Albert 1er, Chamonix
Why We Keep Returning to France
The beauty of France extends far beyond Paris.
It’s found in the golden stone villages of Provence, the Mediterranean light that inspired generations of artists, the vineyards of Bordeaux, the fairy-tale streets of Alsace, and the mountain peaks of the Alps.
Some places impress you with famous landmarks.
France wins you over through moments.
A lavender field glowing at sunset.
A quiet café tucked into a village square.
A mountain that inspired a masterpiece.
A coastal path overlooking the Mediterranean.
These are the places that stay with you long after the trip ends… and the reason we continue returning to France whenever we can.
More France Travel Inspiration
Visiting Van Gogh’s Asylum in Saint-Rémy
Exploring Gordes and Roussillon
Three Days in Paris (and why we love Hotel Splendid Etoile)
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