Out of all the places to visit in France before you die, it’s without a doubt Paris the first city to come to mind. It’s no doubt that Paris is the top tourist city in France, actually, in the world, but France is much more than a famous painting in the Louvre or a tall iron structure set in beautiful park. This is not meant to give the city of Paris any grief, but you won’t find Paris on this list due to it’s obvious spot on the list. Everyone knows about Paris, so what else does France offer?
Well if all things bubbly and grape make you happy, see the birthplace of champagne and take down enough sparkly until you feel like some incredible wine fusions in your glass instead. There’s also chic shopping centers, ancient sites to roam about, historically important buildings, and seeing what inspired a highly revered artist and painter.
prochasson frederic/Shutterstock.com
If scenery is more your thing, it will be impossible to look away. With the Alps gracing its presence in the east, you will be hard pressed to not be amazed and dazzled at the scenery. If the sun, sand, and sea are more your cup of tea, hop over to the French Riviera or other coastal gems featured on the Mediterranean.
A number of places to visit in France that are safe and beautiful will surely motivate you to make your list a bit longer when you visit. There’s a good reason why this is one of the top travel destination for US citizens, as well as for tons of others mystified with France.
9. Giverny
On the borderline of Normandy is an idyllic rural community living on the banks of a river. The country gardens are flourishing with their array of green and brightly color flowers. This is where the famous painter, Monet, got his inspiration and you won’t wonder why when you see this place.
8. The Palace of Versailles
Here is the former house of the kings of France, including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The impeccable building and gardens are an epic reminder of the 18th century French and their way of living before the French Revolution.
7. Champagne-Ardenne
Like the name suggest, low and behold the birthplace of the famous cheersing drink, champagne. Beside sipping on the sparkling goodness offered here, the incredible wine trails found throughout the region are a must explore. Along the way you may encounter a medieval chateaux, and other countryside panoramas.
David Hughes/Shutterstock.com
6.Strasbourg
If you’re good with your European languages, you might guess that this city is on the border with Germany. A blend of these two cultures are eminent and pull visitors in with its charm. Gothic cathedrals, timber houses, and its proximity to the River Rhine and Black Forest make it picturesque and desired.
5. French Riviera
The French coastlines along the Mediterranean are a sight to see, there are no questions there. Tons of tourists clamour their way to Monaco, St. Tropez, and the famous Cannes Film Festival, but there is certainly more to this area than that. Grasse and Eze are a bit more undiscovered and offer a small village feel rather than overrun coastal city.French Riviera is definitely a place to visit in France before you die!
4. Bordeaux
A major port city with a dash of everything is what’s waiting for you here. A bit of history, some exceptional and interesting architecture, and a happening art and cultural scene make this city a must on any list. If this isn’t convincing enough, perhaps after a few glasses of wine and a ride about the vineyard and villages on the skirts might change your mind.
3. Arles
Here is where you can get a dose of some Roman architecture and historical sites, including a massive Roman Amphitheater that still houses events such as festivals and bullfights. It’s a tranquil city that Vincent Van Gogh once called home.
2. Annecy, The Alps
Although the thought of seeing mountains first comes to mind when thinking of this place in the Alps, Annecy is more than just some mountains with fresh powder to play in. Here is the “Venice of Savoie” because of the snaking canals that slice through the 14th century Chateau and the surrounding residence. This is considered one of the most photogenic towns in the entire country.
And, the best place to visit in France before you die is: Corsica
Here is a beach getaway as your last destination. Take in the beauty, the sun rays, and if you so choose to, the adventures that wait in the mountains. Trekkers, shoppers, and beach bummers alike will love the shores of Corsica. The GR20 trail just so happens to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous hiking/driving trails in the world.
So who else is excited about these places to visit in France before you die?
