Top Cities to Visit in France Beyond Paris

France has been stereotyped as being all about romance, art, and beauty of Paris and only traveling there does not give you the whole picture of the diverse France. France boasts the locations of wine-country and medieval city as well as the sunny coastal cities and alpine retreats that mirror France, with all its rich history and colorful culture. The tourists who want to get an original experience tend to visit the locations of Paris less and less to get a good insight into the customs, life, and tastes of the country. Cities to Visit in France can make the ordinary vacation an unforgettable cultural experience with the local culture and charm.

Travelers who want to spend their holidays in France in an immersive way should have an excellent opportunity to Book a multi-city tour of France and explore unique places outside of the capital. Every city has its own specialty, it could be the food, the architecture, the landscapes, or historical value. The following guide draws your attention to the best cities in France outside Paris that can be included in your travel itinerary so that you can plan an enriching and fulfilling European travel experience.

Here are the Top Cities to Visit in France beyond Paris

1. Lyon – The Culinary Capital of France

Lyon is a celebrated city throughout the world due to their gastronomy and historical significance. The city is surrounded by the rivers Rhone and Saone and combines the renaissance architecture with the dynamic modern living. It has an old town with its narrow cobblestone streets, concealed ways called traboules and colorful buildings which show centuries of history. Lyon is a heaven of food and it covers traditional bouchons, fresh produce at the market, and even Michelin-starred restaurants.

Other than food, Lyon has beautiful museums, Roman ruins, and great vistas of Fourvieree hill. It is a must visit destination when the visitor wants to experience the culture and also taste the cuisine as he goes about touring various Cities to Visit in France.

2. Marseille – Mediterranean Energy and Ancient Roots

Being the oldest city in France, Marseille provides an impressive blend of ancient and modern city. The maritime legacy of the city is evident in its busy Old Port, vibrant markets and the seafront promenades. Cultural diversity in Marseille is evident in the forms of cuisine, architecture and the neighborhoods and thus the city is considered to be one of the most active cities in the country.

The local Calanques National Park also offers amazing cliffs, blue sea waters, and outdoor activities. The city of Marseille invites an experience of seaside in its ancient towers and modern art galleries, which are also offered by none of the other cities in France.

3. Bordeaux – Wine, Elegance, and Riverfront Beauty

Bordeaux is the place of a good wine, and there is much more to explore in the city than just walking through the vineyards. Its high architecture, broad avenues and boatside promenades make it a very beautiful place to be explored at leisure. Museums, historic squares, and cultural events are available all year round to the visitor.

The nearby rural setting is made of picturesque landscapes and attractive villages which can be visited during the day. Bordeau has a sophisticated but friendly nature that is why it is a popular destination of travellers who want to enjoy the sophistication of Paris but avoid the congested city.

4. Strasbourg – A Blend of French and German Heritage

Strasbourg, situated close to the German border, is a very intriguing place in terms of cultures. Half-timbered houses, canals and Gothic cathedral make the city look like a fairy-tale. The historical quarter is a small compact neighborhood that is easy to walk around and take picturesque shots.

Strasbourg cuisine is based on the dual nature of its heritage, as local cuisine is hearty and French cuisine is considered elite. The fact that the city is a European political hub provides a contemporary twist to it and it is one of the most culturally stratified Cities to Visit in France.

5. Nice – Riviera Glamour and Coastal Charm

Nice reflects the beauty of the French Riviera with its Mediterranean coast, colourful old town and easy going ambience. The Promenade des Anglais is a place where one can enjoy marvelous sea views, whereas the historic quarter will make one visit markets, cafes, and art museums.

Nice is also a key to the adjacent coastal communities and hill villages where the travelers can mix relaxation on the beach and the culture tours. It has a pleasant climate and beautiful scenery that makes it a perfect place to visit all the year round.

6. Nantes – History Meets Creative Innovation

Having been a large port city, Nantes has rediscovered itself as a creativity and cultural center. Old castles, beach walks and creative art exhibitions harmoniously co-exist. The high-energy of the city attracts tourists who are attracted by both modernity and the historical value of the city.

Nantes is also equipped with green area and sustainability programs providing a refreshing urban experience unlike the traditional vacation hubs.

7. Annecy – Alpine Beauty and Serene Canals

Annecy is often referred to as one of the most scenic towns in France and is encircled by mountains and lakes of crystal-clear waters. The canals, pink-colored buildings and flower-tiled streets make it a quiet and romantic place. Outdoor lovers have the opportunity to hike and ride a bicycle and history lovers can see medieval buildings.

Annecy is a great place to visit in the well-rounded French itinerary, as it is a serene contrast to a busy city.

Conclusion:

The beauty of France goes well beyond Paris, and the diversity of the country provides the tourist with the abundance of nature, culture and city life. Out of gastronomic masterpiece in Lyon to the Mediterranean sophistication in Nice and historic fusion in Strasbourg, each of these destinations adds a new chapter to the history of the country. The journey through various parts of the country enables the tourists to understand the variety and multicultural nature of the country, and in particular to choose the most fruitful Cities to Visit in France.

To people who love having a more meaningful and engaging travel experience, going beyond Paris opens memories of a lifetime and genuine experiences. France has an attraction to all kinds of traveler, be it a wine country holiday, a seaside vacation or an alpine resort. By effective planning and professional advice, the multi-city adventure should be the best solution to experience the eternal beauty of the country, its rich heritage, and regional diversity.