Look no further! This list covers the 10 most beautiful cities in France that will blow you away. France is the most visited country in the world, welcoming by far the most tourists every year who are all eager to see experience the magic that is France.
With so many different cities in France, it can be hard to choose which to visit and which to skip. However, not all cities are the same in France. Due to the countries huge size, it borders many other European countries, namely: Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. As a result, many cities near these borders have strong cross-country influence giving them a very unique and enticing look.
If you are on the hunt for the most beautiful cities in France use this list. Here you will find both big touristy cities and some amazing hidden gems. Bon, voyage!
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
In This Post
10 Most Beautiful Cities in France
Paris, France
Although Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world and super touristy it is still a stunning and magical place to visit. Paris is easily one of the most beautiful cities in France that has captured the hearts of millions. The best thing about Paris is that it is full of iconic and historic pieces of architecture that only add to its beauty. There is nothing quite as amazing as seeing the Eiffel Tower or Arc De Triomphe for the first time! Due to Paris’s huge size, it is best to spend a weekend or more in the city to really soak in its beauty.
Many people head to Paris with their partners to be in love in the city of love. There are so many romantic things to see and do in Paris only adding to its beauty and mysticism.
Colmar, France
Colmar is easily one of the most beautiful cities in France that offers something very unique and different from much of the country. This city is located right near the German border and the German influence is evident at first sight. The real beauty of Colmar comes from the unique half-timber medieval buildings, gothic churches, and cobblestone streets. It is easily one of the most magical, fairytale-like places in the world.
Nice, France
Nice is an underrated city in France that offers a more tropical beachy getaway than most other places on this list. It is located in the South of France in the French Rivera and has a very laidback and relaxed atmosphere. Nice is most famous for its amazing warm weather, stunning beaches, and stretching pebbly coastline. Heading to Nice will show you a different side to France that is less busy streets, huge churches, and old stone buildings, to something that is more about colourful artist architecture, beach-filled days, and stunning views.
Antibes, France
Antibes, France is easily one of the most beautiful cities in France that looks like something from a romance novel. It is located between Nice and Cannes and is fortified by 16th-century high stone walls and red-roofed buildings. Like most places in the South of France, there is an air of luxury in Antibes. The port is full of huge yachts and you will find a few exclusive boutiques as you explore. However, you don’t need to break the bank to eat and drink here!
While here it is best to explore the old town and soak in the stunning surroundings. It looks like not much has changed here since ancient times and the cobblestone streets and authentic architecture are beautiful. Antibes is a dream-like place perfect for a luxurious getaway with beaches, old towns and more!
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is a beautiful city in France that sits near the German border. Its location has given this city a very unique culture and architecture that showcases both German and French influences. Strasbourg is easily one of the most beautiful cities in France that is tranquil, surprising, and unique. Many people consider Strasbourg a hidden gem in Europe because of its beauty and all the amazing things to do and see.
Menton, France
Menton, France may look like a city from a fictional TV show but this city is in fact REAL! This beautiful and colourful city is located in the French Riviera in the South of France and is a feast for the eyes. Menton is known for its vibrant architecture, historic old town, beautiful beaches and romantic gardens. It is not quite as luxurious as Cannes and not as big as Nice, making it the perfect middle ground option if you are looking for a relaxing South of France getaway.
The old town in Menton is the real star of the show. This medieval gem is built into the hilly terrain and is something out of a movie. While in Menton you must also enjoy the specialty lemons of this region.
Villefranche-Sur-Mer, France
Villefranche-sur-Mer is another stunning city in the French Riviera located just a short distance from Monaco. It is a beyond picturesque place to visit that has a more local and non-touristy vibe than other cities in the South of France. Villefranche-sur-Mer has a picturesque old town, beautiful beaches, and stunning views. It is the perfect place to escape to for a France getaway that feels like your own hidden gem discovery!
While in Villefranche-sur-Mer you will find there is tons to do and see. It is one of the best places in France if you are a water lover with its many beaches and water activities available. Think snorkelling, paddleboarding and more! There are also a ton of waterfront restaurants, shops and boutiques to spend the day enjoying. Beyond this you can enjoy churches, historic monuments and more.
Annecy, France
Annecy, France is a medieval alpine town located near Switzerland. The stunning mountain views, colourful buildings and charming canals make this an easy addition as one of the most beautiful cities in France. In addition to the awe-inspiring scenery, there are a ton of amazing things to do in Annecy! From enjoying a meal along the canals to exploring the local market to hiking the mountains. There is no shortage of beauty to see and things to do.
Gorges du Verdon, France
Gorges du Verdon is one of France’s best-kept secrets and a real hidden gem in Europe. Although this is not exactly a “city” it truly is one of the most beautiful places to visit in France and something that must be added to this list. Verdon Gorge is an aqua blue-hued river canyon located in the South of France. In the summer the water is packed with boats and kayakers enjoying this stunning natural beauty. This is also a great place for swimming and enjoying the warm South of France sun!
Rocamadour, France
Rocamadour is a quaint clifftop village in France that is unlike anything else you will find in France – or even Europe. It is known for the complex of religious buildings and is a very popular pilgrimage route. The town receives around 1.5 million visitors each year with most people visiting for religious reasons and others to see the stunning beauty and design of the city. Rocamadour is one of the beautiful cities in France and the most unique!
France really is a country like no other. This list of the 10 most beautiful cities in France only scratches the surface. There are so many more stunning places to see and explore that should be added to your bucket list.
Like this post? Pin “10 Most Beautiful Cities in France” for later!
Love,
SSW
This has just reminded me how much I want to return to France and see more! Colmar, Annecy and Strasbourg are all high on my list. Beautiful photos 🙂
These cities are gorgeous. A few of them are new to me, like Villefranche-sur-Mer and Gorges du Verdon. They both look mesmerizing.