Top 10 Cities to Visit In France

If you ever have the opportunity to spend a decent amount of time in France, run – don’t walk. Pack your bags immediately. You’re about to open a jeweled box containing charming medieval towns, 11th-century cathedrals, fields of lavender, and the rolling waves of the Mediterranean Sea. 

We can’t recommend an extended stay in any other country quite as boisterously. Below, we’ve hand-picked ten places, from coast to coast, that will give you a good sense of just how many marvels exist in this incomparable country. Ready to make all your dreams come true?

Paris

It goes without saying that the capital is the star of the show. Paris is for everyone, whether you’re a lover strolling hand in hand along the River Seine, a history buff enjoying the architecture and museums, or a bibliophile who loves to dip in and out of second-hand bookshops. You won’t have a bad meal or glass of wine wherever you go. And you’ll enjoy the way the sky actually shifts into shades of pink at night when the sun is setting over the City of Love. 

Versailles

Versailles is a quick trip via the train from Paris – and well worth the effort. Of course, you simply must take a tour of the palace to see the way Louis and Marie used to live. The grounds are also utterly remarkable, so give yourself plenty of time for them, as well. 

The town of Versailles has a certain charm to it, as well. Here, too, you’ll enjoy strolling in and out of the shops, boulangeries, and patisseries. There’s also a lovely market filled with fresh food and flowers to take back to your hotel for the evening. 

Colmar

Ah, Colmar – she’s pretty as a picture and can’t be compared to any other city in the world. Rumor has it that Colmar was the town that inspired Beauty & the Beast. You can just see it as you walk along the canal or circle the square. It’s a charming medieval town with half-timber houses that date back to the 12th century. 

You’ll want to start in Little Venice, with its shops, restaurants, and views of the canal. Then, you can spread out in any direction to enjoy the architecture and homegrown goods in all the shops. When you’re ready for a moment of quiet, step into Saint Martin’s Church, a beautiful Gothic-style creation that was founded in 1234. 

Reims

Speaking of stunning cathedrals, the Gothic wonder that stands tall and proud over the square in Reims is a feat by any standard. It was the site of 25 coronations of the kings of France – going all the way back to Louis VIII in 1429. Joan of Arc, herself, was once in attendance – for the coronation of Charles Vii in 1429. Of course, the town itself is also a delight, much like Versailles, where you can dip in and out of local shops and enjoy a savory meal before heading back to your hotel for the night.