When you think of France, your mind might go straight to Paris. But the real magic? It’s often found in the smaller towns, tucked into hillsides, curled around rivers, or nestled beside lakes. These places are quiet gems where life moves a little slower and beauty waits around every corner. We have compiled a list of the best 10 most beautiful towns in France, so you can choose which ones you’d like to visit. Are You Excited! Let’s get started!
1. Annecy
Region: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Main City: Lyon
Annecy is one of those towns that you fall in love with quickly. It’s set right on the edge of a turquoise lake, framed by snowy peaks in the distance. The canals that run through the old town give it a romantic feel, and the colorful buildings, flower boxes, and cobbled streets only add to the charm.
Best Things to See Around Annecy:
- Lake Annecy: You can walk or cycle around it, swim in the summer, or take a boat tour.
- Old Town (Vieille Ville): Full of markets, small cafés, and shops. It’s easy to spend hours just wandering here.
- Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge): A quiet spot with a lovely view over the water.
- Palais de l’Isle: A tiny castle in the middle of a canal—it looks like a miniature fortress.
- Semnoz Mountain: Great for a scenic drive or a hike with panoramic views of the Alps and the lake.
How to Get to Annecy:
From Lyon, the easiest way is by train. It takes around 2 hours and drops you close to the town center. Buses are also available but take a little longer. If you prefer a scenic route, rent a bike or car and enjoy the drive through the French countryside. Once in Annecy, the whole town is walkable.
2. Colmar
Region: Grand Est
Main City: Strasbourg
Colmar feels like walking through a fairy tale. With timber-framed houses, pastel facades, and canals, it’s often called one of the prettiest towns in France. Everything feels carefully painted and arranged—like a village from a storybook.
Top Things to Do in Colmar:
- La Petite Venise: The most photographed area in town, full of charm and small bridges.
- Unterlinden Museum: Set in a former convent, this museum has everything from medieval art to modern pieces.
- Saint Martin’s Church: Right in the town center with beautiful Gothic architecture.
- The Toy Museum: A fun little stop if you’re traveling with kids—or just feeling nostalgic.
- Alsace Wine Route: Colmar is right in the middle of wine country, and several vineyards are only a short drive away.
How to Reach Colmar:
From Strasbourg, you can hop on a direct train, which takes about 30 minutes. You can also catch a bus, but trains are faster and more comfortable. If you’re feeling adventurous, biking through the wine route is a scenic way to arrive—just keep in mind it’s a longer trip. Once there, the town is very pedestrian-friendly.
3. Gordes
Region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Main City: Avignon
Gordes is a hilltop village in the Luberon region that looks like it’s made entirely of soft-colored stone. The town spills down the hillside, with houses stacked one above the other and olive trees scattered below. It’s especially stunning in the golden light of late afternoon.
What to See Around Gordes:
- Abbaye de Sénanque: A peaceful stone abbey surrounded by lavender in the summer.
- Village des Bories: An open-air site with stone huts once used by farmers.
- Gordes Castle: Right in the town center, now used for art exhibitions.
- Luberon Regional Park: Full of scenic hiking trails and quiet spots to take in the views.
- Local Markets: Every Tuesday morning, the market brings local cheese, olives, and crafts to the village square.
How to Get to Gordes:
From Avignon, you can take a bus, though schedules can be limited. Renting a car is the best option if you want flexibility—it’s about a 45-minute drive. Biking from nearby towns like Cavaillon or L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is doable for experienced cyclists, but be ready for hills. Once in Gordes, it’s easy to get around on foot.
4. Dinan
Region: Brittany
Main City: Rennes
Dinan is full of character. It has stone ramparts, timber-framed houses, and a peaceful river running alongside. The medieval feel is strong here, and it’s the kind of place where you half expect to see someone riding a horse through the cobbled streets.
Don’t Miss These Places in Dinan:
- Rue du Jerzual: A steep, narrow street lined with artists’ studios and old homes.
- Basilique Saint-Sauveur: A peaceful church with a garden overlooking the river.
- Dinan Castle: Complete with towers and ramparts you can walk along.
- Port of Dinan: A lovely area to relax by the river, with boats and waterfront restaurants.
- Viaduct Viewpoint: Great spot for a photo of the whole town and the river below.
Getting to Dinan:
From Rennes, take a train to Dinan’s nearby station, which takes about an hour. Some journeys require a change in Dol-de-Bretagne. Buses also connect the towns, but trains are more frequent. If you’re up for it, biking along the river path from Léhon is a calm and scenic ride. Once in Dinan, everything is reachable by foot—though bring good shoes for the cobbles and hills.
5. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
Region: Occitanie
Main City: Toulouse
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie clings to the edge of a cliff high above the Lot River. The views are amazing, but the village itself is just as lovely, with stone houses, narrow alleys, and flower-filled windows. There’s no rush here—just quiet beauty and a slower way of life.
What to Explore in and Around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie:
- Lot River Lookout: A viewpoint that lets you see the whole valley below.
- Ruins of the Castle: Great for a short walk with rewarding views.
- Artisan Shops: Local artists have small galleries all through the village.
- Pech Merle Cave: A bit outside town, but worth it for prehistoric cave paintings.
- Canoeing on the Lot: The river is calm and perfect for a few hours on the water.
How to Get There:
From Toulouse, take a train to Cahors (about 1.5 hours), then a local bus or taxi to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Bus times can be limited, so check in advance. Driving is the easiest way to get there, especially if you want to explore the surrounding countryside. Walking trails also connect some nearby villages, but they’re better for those planning a full day’s hike.
6. Honfleur
Region: Normandy
Main City: Rouen
Honfleur is a peaceful harbor town on the coast of Normandy, known for its picturesque port and charming medieval architecture. The town’s vibrant colors are reflected in the water, creating a painter’s paradise. Honfleur has inspired countless artists, especially during the Impressionist movement, and it still retains that magical, artistic vibe.
Top Things to See in Honfleur:
- Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor): The heart of Honfleur, surrounded by colorful houses and bustling cafés. It’s a great spot for photos, enjoying local seafood, or taking in the lively atmosphere.
- Saint-Catherine’s Church: The largest wooden church in France, famous for its unique architecture and the peaceful interior.
- Eugène Boudin Museum: Honfleur’s main art museum, dedicated to the painter Eugène Boudin, who was born here and helped shape the Impressionist movement.
- Le Jardin des Personnalités: A lovely garden dedicated to famous figures linked to Honfleur, including writers, painters, and musicians.
- Norman Market: Every Saturday, you can explore the market for fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialties.
How to Get to Honfleur:
From Rouen, you can take a bus to Honfleur, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, driving gives you the flexibility to enjoy the coastal roads at your own pace. If you’re coming from Paris, there are direct trains to Le Havre, and from there, a bus or taxi can take you to Honfleur in 30 minutes. Honfleur is best explored on foot—its compact size and scenic streets are perfect for wandering.
7. Riquewihr
Region: Grand Est (Alsace)
Main City: Strasbourg
Riquewihr is one of the most beautiful villages along the Alsace Wine Route. It’s like stepping into a medieval fairy tale, with cobblestone streets, flower-covered windows, and colorful houses. Set among rolling vineyards, Riquewihr has a relaxed, timeless charm that draws visitors looking for both history and natural beauty.
Must-See Attractions in Riquewihr:
- Ramparts: Take a walk along the ancient city walls that offer stunning views of the vineyards below.
- Dolder Tower: A medieval tower that was once a watchtower, offering panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside.
- The Wine Museum: Learn about the region’s wine history and the art of winemaking. The museum also offers tastings of Alsace wines.
- Saint-Hilaire Church: A beautiful gothic church with intricate stained-glass windows and peaceful surroundings.
- Local Wine Tasting: Riquewihr is surrounded by some of the best vineyards in France, so a wine tasting at one of the local wineries is a must.
How to Get to Riquewihr:
From Strasbourg, the quickest way is by train to Colmar, and then a short bus ride to Riquewihr. The village is small and walkable, so once you arrive, everything is within easy reach. Alternatively, renting a car will give you the flexibility to explore the nearby wine villages and scenic routes.
8. Eze
Region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Main City: Nice
Eze is a medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean Sea, offering some of the most breathtaking views along the French Riviera. Its narrow streets wind through the village, leading you to hidden gardens, art galleries, and cafés that overlook the azure waters below.
Top Attractions Around Eze:
- Eze Village: A labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with stone houses, offering sweeping views over the coast.
- Fragonard Perfumery: Eze is famous for its perfume industry, and a visit to the Fragonard Perfume Factory lets you experience the art of perfume-making.
- Château de la Chèvre d’Or: A stunning hotel and restaurant offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding hills.
- Eze Botanique Garden: A garden filled with exotic plants, and an incredible spot to take in the surrounding vistas.
- Le Nietzsche Path: For those who love hiking, this steep trail takes you up from the seaside to the top of Eze and offers some of the most incredible views on the French Riviera.
How to Reach Eze:
From Nice, take bus number 82 from the bus station, which takes you up the hillside to Eze in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, the train station below Eze (Eze-sur-Mer) connects to Nice and Monaco, and then you can take a bus or walk up the hill to the village. Eze is a perfect spot to explore on foot, with plenty of picturesque viewpoints along the way.
9. Villefranche-sur-Mer
Region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Main City: Nice
Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most charming seaside towns on the French Riviera, just a short distance from Nice. It offers a perfect mix of Mediterranean beauty, colorful streets, and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
What to Do Around Villefranche-sur-Mer:
- Old Town: Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where colorful houses and lively cafés create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Plage des Marinières: A beautiful beach where you can relax by the crystal-clear water, with views of the nearby cliffs and bay.
- Saint-Pierre Chapel: A small but beautiful chapel with a famous mural painted by Jean Cocteau.
- Fort du Mont Alban: A historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coast.
- The Citadel: A historic site that houses the local museums and provides insight into the town’s history and architecture.
How to Get to Villefranche-sur-Mer:
From Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer is just a 10-minute train ride away, making it incredibly easy to reach. You can also take a bus from Nice, which takes around 30 minutes, or enjoy a beautiful coastal walk if you’re feeling energetic. The town itself is small and walkable, with plenty of charming alleys and cafes to explore on foot.
10. Concarneau
Region: Brittany
Main City: Quimper
Concarneau is a fortified seaside town in Brittany known for its impressive walled town, lovely beaches, and vibrant harbor. The town has a rich maritime history and is still home to a large fishing port, giving it a lively, authentic vibe.
Best Attractions in Concarneau:
- Ville Close (Old Town): The heart of Concarneau, with medieval ramparts, cobbled streets, and stunning views of the harbor.
- Musée de la Pêche: This museum is dedicated to Concarneau’s long history as a fishing port, showcasing the town’s maritime culture.
- The Beaches: Concarneau is known for its beautiful beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports.
- Château de Keriolet: A beautiful 19th-century castle located just outside Concarneau, offering tours and lovely gardens.
- Local Seafood: Concarneau is famous for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day.
How to Get to Concarneau:
From Quimper, you can take a bus or train to Concarneau, which takes about 30 minutes. If you’re traveling from Brest, the train journey is a bit longer but scenic, taking around 1.5 hours. Once in Concarneau, the town is best explored on foot, as everything is easily accessible within the town center and harbor area.
