Top 5: French Destinations That Aren’t Paris

Are you a Francophile who’s been to Paris a few times, and ready to see the rest of the country? Or maybe you want to start your journey in Paris, but then see a few top spots beyond the City of Lights? If so, these top French destinations may just be right for you.

Nice

Obviously you can’t miss Nice. The beautiful Mediterranean destination offers its own brand of glamour, alongside tradition and history. Plus, the beaches and delicious seaside dining make this city the perfect mix of beach and European vacations.

Bordeaux

Wine aficionados will adore Bordeaux and all the tasting and tours it has to offer. However, even if you’re not in it for the drinks, you’ll still find lots of history and culture to keep you occupied, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to the city squares.

Lyon

A foodie capital, Lyon is growing by leaps and bounds, and beloved by those searching for cuisine and culture of all kinds. Be sure to check out the lineup of events going on in the city, and see if you can catch a festival or two.

Chamonix

If neither wine nor seaside vistas catch your fancy, what about breathtaking mountains and a plethora of outdoor activities, particularly snow sports? Chamonix offers just this, with a beautifully mountainous landscape, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over the continent.

Arles

Prefer a destination your friends maybe haven’t heard of, but that will leave them all envious? Try Arles, once home to Vincent Van Gogh and a true inspiration for any traveler. The French town is all charm and authenticity, with a little bit of Roman history thrown in for good measure.