Your city trip to France
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Explore the most beautiful cities in France
Paris with its world-class museums, Lyon as the capital of French gastronomy, and Bordeaux with its grand squares and wine heritage—in France, culture lovers have endless places to explore. Marseille blends Mediterranean energy with historic charm, while Strasbourg and Nice offer their own mix of architecture, flavors, and regional traditions. Whether you’re tasting Provençal cuisine, sampling wines in Burgundy, or discovering medieval streets in Alsace, France’s cities invite you to experience art, history, and food at every stop.
Lisa Robin
Travel expert for France
Updated on 11/28/2025
Where are the most beautiful cities in France?
1. Paris
From the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to Montmartre and the Seine, Paris is a city where art, history, and everyday life blend seamlessly. Explore world-class museums, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and enjoy long dinners in lively bistros. As the sun sets, landmarks glow in warm light, giving the city its unmistakable magic.
2. Lyon
Often called the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon delights with its traditional bouchons, Renaissance old town, and riverside promenades. Wander through the traboules, hidden passageways connecting courtyards, or take in sweeping views from the Fourvière Basilica. Food lovers will find endless inspiration in Lyon’s markets and kitchens.
3. Bordeaux
This elegant city is known for its grand 18th-century architecture, vibrant squares, and exceptional wine culture. Discover the mirrored beauty of Place de la Bourse, sample local specialties at Marché des Capucins, or explore La Cité du Vin. With its riverside walks and nearby vineyards, Bordeaux is perfect for slow, scenic days.
4. Marseille
Colorful markets, Mediterranean beaches, and centuries of maritime history give Marseille a character all its own. Visit the hilltop basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, wander through the artistic streets of Le Panier, or enjoy fresh seafood at the Vieux-Port. The nearby Calanques offer dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters for hikers and swimmers.
5. Nice
On the French Riviera, Nice charms visitors with its sunny Promenade des Anglais, colorful Old Town, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Explore vibrant markets like Cours Saleya, admire the view from Castle Hill, or enjoy a dip in the Mediterranean. The blend of Italian influence and French flair makes Nice unforgettable.
6. Strasbourg
Strasbourg combines half-timbered houses, canals, and Gothic architecture in a storybook setting. Its cathedral is a masterpiece, and the Petite France district invites leisurely walks past charming waterways. The city’s unique blend of French and German culture shows in its food, traditions, and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Toulouse
Known as “La Ville Rose” for its pink-hued brick buildings, Toulouse delights with its warm, lively ambiance. Stroll along the Garonne, discover Romanesque landmarks like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, or enjoy the city’s thriving café culture. Its mix of aerospace innovation and historic charm makes Toulouse truly distinctive.
8. Avignon
Avignon’s medieval heritage is visible at every turn, from the monumental Palais des Papes to the famous Pont d’Avignon. Wander through shaded squares, vibrant markets, and cozy restaurants in the old town. Surrounded by vineyards and Provençal landscapes, the city feels like a gateway into the region’s art, history, and sunshine.
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Our insider tips in France
Metz
Located near the German and Luxembourg borders, Metz combines Gothic landmarks with a flourishing contemporary arts scene. Its luminous cathedral, known for some of Europe’s most stunning stained-glass windows, towers over elegant squares and riverside promenades. The Centre Pompidou-Metz brings bold modern architecture and world-class exhibitions to the city. Wander through the historic imperial district, enjoy the lively covered market, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere along the Moselle River.
Colmar
Often overshadowed by Strasbourg, Colmar is a jewel of Alsace with colorful half-timbered houses, canals, and cobblestone lanes that feel straight out of a storybook. The Little Venice quarter is especially charming, with flower-lined bridges and traditional houses reflected in the water. Visit the Unterlinden Museum, sample local wines, or simply stroll through the old town to take in its mix of Germanic and French influences, a perfect insider stop for culture and culinary travelers.
Amiens
Set in the heart of northern France, Amiens is known for its floating gardens, medieval charm, and one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in the country. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Explore the peaceful Hortillonnages by boat, wander through the Saint-Leu district with its canals and cafés, or visit the home of Jules Verne for a surprising literary twist. Amiens is an unexpected delight for curious travelers.
France guide: Travel tips & info
In major cities and tourist areas, many people speak basic English. Learning a few simple French phrases is always appreciated and can make interactions smoother.
Paris is the classic choice, but Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille, Nice, Strasbourg, and Toulouse all offer rich culture, great food, and walkable historic centers. Each city has its own distinct character, regional cuisine, and local traditions.
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and long daylight hours, ideal for walking tours, museums, and outdoor cafés. Summer is vibrant and lively, while winter offers cozy markets, festive lights, and excellent museum experiences.
