In a couple of days, three days at the time of the post, France will be hosting the Summer Olympics. This year’s summer Olympics will ensure that the popular travel destination gets an influx of visitors waiting to cheer on their nation’s best athletes. Although France is hosting the Olympics, its capital, Paris, will be the epicenter of where the games are going to take place. The City of Love is ready to display its glory. However, suppose you do not want to be in the mix of all the Olympic madness, as reports show people avoiding Paris because of price spikes, overcrowdedness, and congestion. In that case, France has numerous travel destinations where you will enjoy unique adventures and embrace the diversity that makes France the most visited country in the world. This post will highlight 13 French cities worth visiting besides Paris, but before diving into these magical destinations, let’s discuss the cultural wars Paris has with its French counterparts.
Paris vs. Other French Cities
It is no secret that Paris is a must-see destination. As one of the most recognized cities in the world, Paris offers many things to see, experience, and indulge in. The City of Love offers historic sites, adventures, and access to renowned places that will make your visit feel like you are in a movie. Visiting the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay opens the door to unique arts. From paintings to sculptures, you will marvel at human creation. A walk in Montmartre offers an enchanting, idyllic experience where you walk the steps of the famous Sacre Coeur while enjoying a crepe or a croissant. The city itself is a walking museum. You will discover something extraordinary that will pique your interest at every turn. With its 2,185 monuments, Paris is sure to have your attention. However, Paris is not the only French city that makes France the number 1 travel destination.
It may not be evident when you visit Paris to realize that there is a cultural war between Paris and other French cities. When I live in Rennes, France, and ask different French locals to recommend what I should do or where I should go, people in each region will dissuade me from visiting Paris. Les Rennais, for example, wondered why I wanted to go to Paris. I would get the same reactions when traveling to other parts of France. Locals would tout why their regions are better than Paris. I met a girl from Compiegne, an hour away from Paris, who asked me for directions while we waited for the train. I thought she was a foreigner, but to my surprise, she was a local French girl, born and raised in Compiegne, who had never been to Paris because to her it is useless. Experiencing these great divides between other French cities and Paris piqued my curiosity. I wanted to know why other French towns did not like Paris and would turn a visitor like me away from visiting the City of Lights. The answer came from the history behind the rebranding of Paris post-WWII.
As mentioned in a previous article, France depended on England and the United States after WWII, which bothered General Charles de Gaulle. As they were great enemies, each fighting to be recognized as a great superpower, de Gaulle was annoyed that his country depended on its archenemy, Great Britain. His disdain manifested itself when he declared France’s liberation without acknowledging the help of the Allied nations who helped him. When de Gaulle returned to France, he wanted to make Paris the most fantastic city on Earth. He wanted a city better than Washington, D.C., and, most importantly, better than London. Hence came the Paris rebrand. Charles de Gaulle received $2 billion from the United States to reconstruct France, which mainly involved rebuilding Paris. He used the funds to rebuild roads and housing projects and help create jobs.
The fashion industry helped Paris gain its status as the world’s fashion capital with fashion exhibitions such as Le Theatre de la Mode, which took place in 1944, and fashion designers like Christian Dior, who revolutionized the fashion industry in 1947. All of these innovations and rebranding made Paris the focus, which meant that if you wanted to find a job, you needed to live in Paris. The effects of this reconstruction are still alive today. Hence, you will hear the cliche, “Nobody living outside of Paris comes to live in Paris willingly.” Other French people come to Paris for work or studies but do not appreciate the city because they do not provide the comfort they have in their regions. Hence, they will dissuade a tourist from visiting Paris because when tourists only concentrate on going to Paris, their regions lose out on the economy even though they also have so much to offer. Therefore, as many people are about to flood France for the Olympics, we offer 13 places you should visit outside of Paris to help increase international visitors to other French cities and boost their economies. Let’s dive in!
13 Non-Parisian Cities to Visit
- Saint-Malo
The first city to visit outside of Paris is Saint-Malo. I chose Saint-Malo as the first destination on this list because it is my favorite French destination. Although I accidentally stumbled upon it, Saint-Malo is a popular tourist destination in the Bretagne/Britanny region. It is famous for its beaches, ramparts, and fortresses. The granite city proudly looks out to the sea, which fascinates anyone who comes to bathe in its glory. Its old town, Intra Mutros, has sheltered behind the stone wall since the 12th century, allowing you to discover charming narrow cobblestone streets. A walk through Porte Saint-Vincent offers breathtaking views, unique architecture, and cute shops. To treat yourself to delicious food, stop by Place Chateaubriand.
As a port city, Saint-Malo invites you to bask in the excitement of maritime life. As it boasts adventure and freedom, you will embody the spirit to conquer each corner of this city. Whether you visit during the summer, fall, winter, or spring, Saint-Malo has activities to keep you occupied all year. You can enjoy water sports like surfing, sea-kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. Saint-Malo is a great wellness and spa destination for travelers seeking a detente. Because of its location and access to seafood, it draws many creative chefs looking to serve the most delicious cuisines all year. In September, this Breton city hosts festivals such as the Vent en Poule, a visual art festival, and Baisert voles, a musical festival. Sites you must notice in Saint-Malo include castles such as Chateau de Saint-Malo, Quic-en-Groigne Tower, and Dames and Moulins towers. You should also visit Saint-Vincent Cathedral, a place that embodies the faith and history of the city. Another must-visit destination in Saint-Malo is the Grand Aquarium, one of the largest in France, and the Jacques Cartier Museum. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a week-long trip, Saint-Malo will keep you busy and entertaining.
- Bordeaux
The second must-visit destination outside of Paris is the wine city of Bordeaux. Bordeaux gives you a break from the bustling, fast pace of city life as you settle in vineyards and enjoy the quiet life of this wine country. However, Bordeaux offers many things for visitors aside from its tasty wines. Bordeaux has 350 historical buildings and monuments. From art galleries to vibrant food cultures, Bordeaux offers you unique experiences. One of the first attractions to visit is the Cite du Vin, a museum dedicated to wine. At the City du Vin, you will embark on an interactive and sensory experience where you will tour the world’s vineyards through a film showing the twenty regions in 17 countries where wine is produced. By activating each stage, you will also learn how wine is made on an animated wall, and you will also learn about the six different wine families, giving you some knowledge next time you are ordering your next glass of wine. The best event of all(for someone like me) is the Buffet of the Five Senses, where you will experience the magic of wine through all your five senses. This activity will awaken your memory, emotion, and imagination. However, the museum is one of many places to experience the magic of winemaking. You can visit vineyards and enjoy some personalized experience at any of these Chateaux tours.
However, Bordeaux offers more than just wine experiences. A trip to Bordeaux means a world of new experiences. One of the first unique things you will see in Bordeaux is the world’s largest reflective pool, le Miroir d’Eau. The 3,450m2 artwork invites you to splash it and cool off during hot weather. The square is famous for activities such as concerts and salsa classes. It is a great place to hang out, meet new people, and marvel at the three-century-old monument surrounding it. The reflective pool is one of the best free attractions in the city and is family-friendly. Another attraction you must experience while in Bordeaux is the Dune du Pilat. Although it is about two hours away, and you must take the train and bus to arrive because parking near the dune is prohibited, a trip to the Dune is necessary. As the largest dune in Europe, visiting the Dune teaches you about its 400 years of history and offers many attractions that will make your trip worthwhile. It offers family events, events for travelers with kids, and walking tours, ensuring every kind of traveler enjoys themselves. Lastly, when in Bordeaux, you have to enjoy its culinary scenes. Nothing goes better with wine than delicious food; hence, the wine region offers exceptional cuisines. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influences its delicious servings of seafood, making a trip to Bordeaux a world of all-around experiences.
- Strasbourg
Strasbourg is often synonymous with Christmas. It is the French Christmas capital, receiving an influx of travelers to marvel at its Christmas markets. However, Strasbourg is a travel destination for any time of the year. As one of the four capitals of Europe alongside Brussels, Luxembourg, and Frankfurt, Strasbourg has so much to offer those who seek to bask in its beauty. One of Strasbourg’s unique features is its infusion of French and German cultures, which acts as a cultural bridge between France and Germany. Regardless of what you seek when you travel, Strasbourg will accommodate you.
Travelers to Strasbourg will be amazed by the medieval architecture, Alsatian cuisine, and Gluhwein, a traditional drink famous in Germany and Austria during Christmastime—one of the highlights to visit while in Strasbourg is Place Kleber. The bustling square at the heart of the city center is the home of the famous Christmas tree Strasbourg display every year. It is filled with boutique and artisan shops. It hosts the most significant markets on Saturdays, ensuring you find whatever you seek. Another discovery to embark on while in Strasbourg is its famous neighborhood, La Petite France. The picturesque district hosts the most beautiful and colorful houses on century-old cobblestone streets, offering a fairytale adventure. For Instagramable spots, locals recommend Pont du Faison, Quai de la Petite France, and Place Benjamin Zix in front of Maison des Tanneurs. Another attraction you must visit is the Notre Dame Catedral de Strasbourg. Fascinate at the gothic-style cathedral, for which construction began in 1015 and was completed in 1439. The church has extraordinary ornamental features, including hundreds of sculptures, 12th and 14th-century stain-glass windows, and the Renaissance astronomical clock. Visitors can climb up its platform for a panoramic view. Those who seek a savory taste can enjoy chocolate at the Chocolate Museum by Schaal, where you will have a whole new chocolate experience.
- Nice
The fourth city worth visiting outside of Paris is Nice. Nice, the capital of the Alpes-Maritimes department on the French Riviera, invites you to relax at its blue beaches, marvel at its old city, and enjoy the arts. Walk in the town where Van Gogh, Picasso, and Chagall once walked. You can visit the Marc Chagall National Museum to access Chagall’s collection and paintings and mosaics by other artists. You can also tour the Old Town in Nice, where you will walk on cobblestone streets, eat at outdoor cafes, and go shopping. One highlight of the old town is Cours Saleya, where you will find fruit, flower, and vegetable markets.
A trip to Nice gives you access to royalty. First, you can visit Musee Massena, an iconic sight built as Prince Victor d’Esslin’s vacation home. Its neoclassical architecture gives you a taste of France’s Belle Epoque era. Another royal influence you will encounter in Nice is the Saint Nicholas Cathedral. Unlike other European churches, Saint Nicholas’s architecture has a unique look. At first glance, you will automatically think you are in Russia and won’t be wrong. This cathedral was built to honor Tsarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich, the heir apparent to the Russian Empire, and to accommodate the growing Russian population in Nice. The Russian style of architecture gives this cathedral its unique identity, inviting you to experience Russian culture while in the French Riviera. Another royal influence is Nice’s proximity to Monaco. You can take a 30-minute train to Monaco for an exceptional and unforgettable day trip.
Another reason to visit Nice is its blue beaches. Enjoy your beach day at Plage de l’Escalet or Plage de la Petite Afrique. It is hard not to want to swim in Nice’s turquoise water. Another popular attraction is the Promenade des Anglais. This famous attraction stretches 7km, offers an unlimited view of the azure sea, and is surrounded by palm trees. It is perfect for a stroll or a bike ride. Le Promenade des Anglais is also the venue for festivals in Nice. You can access parks, museums, beaches, and luxurious hotels from the Promenade. Nice’s location makes it perfect for exploring other French Riviera cities such as Cannes, Grasse, a small village famous for its perfumes, and Saint-Tropez. A trip to Nice will surely give you the detente you need to enjoy your summer vacation away from the overcrowded Paris.
- Rennes
Rennes has a special place in my heart because it was my French hometown when I studied abroad in France. The capital of Bretagne is a city filled with history, festivals, and cultural scenes and is the perfect place for students studying abroad. Although it is the capital of Bretagne, it has a slight town feel, making it feel very homey regardless of whether you are visiting for a day or studying abroad there. As a university town, Rennes is very international. You will meet people from all walks of life while learning its impressive history. My favorite thing about my French hometown was the fact that it is pedestrian-friendly. When I moved to Rennes, I dedicated my first week to exploring by foot, and I had no issues getting lost in its beauty and architectural wonders and getting used to walking on cobblestone streets.
What makes Bretagne’s capital unique is its contrasting nature. It embodies its past while embracing modernity, making it an eclectic city. Rennes proudly showcases its colorful history. You will find its half-timbered houses, which date back to the Middle Ages. A visit to Places du Parlement and Place de la Mairie introduces its 18th-century grandeur. Compared to other French cities, Rennes is unafraid to move with the times. The Maillol’s Towers are bringing Rennes to the 21st century. Rennes is one of France’s greenest cities. You will find beautiful parks and gardens. My favorite and a must-see in Rennes is Parc du Thabor. I was lucky to live three blocks away from this natural beauty. I was always impressed regardless of how often I passed through the park. Its mixed characteristics of French and English gardens impress anyone who decides to take a stroll. It has a waterfall, orangery, and aviary and offers an excellent meeting point for family picnics, kids attractions, and romantic dates.
In Rennes, you should visit the Museum of Bretagne, which houses extensive archeological collections from prehistoric to modern times. Another must-visit corner is Champ Libre, where you will find museums, cafes, and other impressive architecture. If you are in Rennes during the weekend, check out the Saturday market, Marche des Lices. As the second largest market in France and a staple in Rennes for 400 years, one must visit why this Saturday market is exceptional. You will find vendors of all backgrounds offering food from around the world. It is a great way to learn about Rennes’ food culture and make new friends. Whether you like seafood and pastries or want to try something new like rabbits(which I did), you will find it at Marches des Lices. Rennes is also famous for its lively bars and waterfront cafes. People are always out for drinks and food. Grab food and drink at Rue St.Michel, also known as “rue de la soif,” —the street of thirst.
- Nantes
If you know Bretagne’s history, you’ll see that you cannot talk about Rennes without talking about Nantes. Nantes, the once capital of Bretagne and sworn enemy of Rennes offers plenty to do and see to ensure you do not visit Rennes. Nantes has a rich history which dates back to Roman times. It was once the Breton city where French royalty resided. A visit to Nante ensures unique adventures, basking in royalty and relaxing at one or all of its famous gardens. Art lovers will love visiting its Musee d’Arts, where you will find works from the 13th to 19th centuries and contemporary art collections. Another attraction to see while in Nantes is le Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a place where the Dukes of Bretagne once lived. This castle is filled with centuries of the region’s history. It is not only a castle but also a museum where you will have access to 1,150 collections.
Another Unique attraction in Nantes is the Machines de l’Ile. The Machines de l’île is a unique attraction in Nantes. You will see gigantic animal machines like the Grand Éléphant, a Manta Ray, and a Sea Snake. The mechanic animals of Nantes are a must-see. You can ride the Grand Elephant, and with a Nantes Pass, you have free entry to the Carrousels des Mondes Marins and the Galeries des Machines. Aside from marveling at these gigantic creations, you can go to the bookshop for souvenirs or eat at the branch cafes. It is a great place to visit, whether alone, with family, or with friends. Other attractions in Nantes are the Jardins des Plantes, a botanical garden where you can relax, picnic, and enjoy the work that began three centuries ago. You will also find various artworks around the park, so take a moment to appreciate the artists’ visions. Nantes, like its rival, has active food and music scenes. You will find a vibrant live music scene. Try its local food and enjoy its Muscadet Wine. Whether traveling for a day or a weekend, Nantes will ensure you have an eventful but restful time.
- Champagne
A trip to Champagne will make you wonder whether “art imitates life” or “life imitates art.” Champagne is not a city but rather a region. A journey to Champagne opens the door to France’s winemaking and Champagne-making history. Although the area is dedicated to wine and Champagne, before embarking on a tasting treat, you must first discover its rich history, which dates back to 1 AD when Romans first established vineyards in the region. Champagne is the heart of French history. It has ties to Kings and the Remi tribe, who loved wine and were influential in the region’s production of wine. Because of its importance and exceptional value, various aspects of Champagne have been classified as UNESCO heritage sites. The vines, the cellars, and the Champagne Houses are all part of the protected heritage sites. A Champagne trip will have you explore historical French vineyards such as Hautvillers, Aÿ, or Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
Hautvillers is located in Montagne de Reims and is the birthplace of Champagne wine. A visit to Hautvillers gives you firsthand experience and knowledge of the wine history. The heirs of Don Perignon, the 17th-century monk who laid the foundation for the elaboration of Champagne, give tours of their cellars and farms and teach you how to saber a champagne bottle. You can also visit different Champagne Houses to learn about different house productions, tour cellars, and taste the finest wine from the winemakers. Champagne is more than just a place for vineyards. A visit to Reims also offers unique experiences away from the greenery. Reims is known as the city of coronations, as it hosted several coronations of French kings. In Epernay, discover the world’s wealthiest avenue, Avenue de Champagne, which preserves 200 million bottles of Champagne. Other activities in Champagne include mountain biking through forests, cycling, and tasting Champagne.
- Montpellier
To relax in another southern French city, visit Montpellier, 10 kilometers inland from the Mediterranean Sea. Montpellier boasts many influences that make this city a historical wonder. A visit to Montpellier will take you on a 1000-year journey with narrow streets at the historical center. Enjoy the open-air museum of Montpellier. For travelers who love to learn about culture and heritage, Montpellier offers many historical sights to discover. Visit Montpellier Cathedral—St Peter’s Cathedral, a symbol of Gothic architecture in the South. It is the only medieval church that survived the War of Religions. Inside the church, you will find Sebastien Bourdon’s “The Fall of Simon the Magician.” After taking 200 steps up the towers, you will have a breathtaking view of the medieval church’s architecture. Other sites to visit are Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Comedie, famous squares that boasted the city’s prosperity in the 18th and 19th centuries. You should also visit the Faculty of Medicine, the oldest medical school in the West that is still operating, and the Fabre Museum, which holds the story of Europe’s creation dating back to the Renaissance era.
Moreover, Montpellier does not only boast its cultural and heritage influences. As a city near the Mediterranean Sea, it has a relaxing atmosphere. You can hang out at its sandy beaches, enjoy a shopping spree, and delight in its French ingredient-only cuisine. Seafood lovers will enjoy the dining experience in Montpellier. Because of its mild weather, you will have no problem going out in the evening. Since Montpellier has a young population, it has a vibrant nightlife. Place Jean Jaures hosts a lot of activities to keep you entertained. Another highlight of visiting Montpellier is that despite its wonders, it is not a crowded city, making it a perfect escape from Paris during the Olympic season.
- Annecy
Another Southern city to explore is Annecy. This picturesque alpine getaway is famous for its natural beauty and many outdoor attractions. Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy should be on your French travel list. The enchanting town is famous for its stunning cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and the glittering blue waters of Lake Annecy, creating an Instagramble setting. Visitors can stroll along the scenic canals and explore the quaint old town with its winding alleyways and medieval architecture. Make sure to enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains that surround the area. Annecy has a romantic ambiance and natural beauty, making it a perfect retreat for couples and a delightful destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway. Couples should check le Pont des Amours, where legends say if two lovers meet in the middle of the bridge and share a kiss, they will be together forever. However, singles should enjoy this bridge as it provides an exceptional view of the city, the mountains, and the lakes.
During your stay in Annecy, there are several must-see attractions and activities. Start your day by visiting the iconic Palais de l’Ile, a historic castle on a small island in the Thiou River that offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s medieval past. The oldest part of the castle dates back to the 12th century. It used to be a prison, courthouse, and administrative center. Since Annecy has sparkling lakes, sandy beaches, rivers, and waterfalls, it provides many water activities for you to embark on. You can take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Annecy to marvel at the stunning landscapes from a different perspective. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in various water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, or take a refreshing swim in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
Additionally, like different French regions, Annecy offers its unique culinary flavor. Have a sample of the local Savoyard cuisine in one of the charming lakeside restaurants, where you can savor delicious dishes like raclette and fondue while taking in the mesmerizing views of the lake and the Alps. Annecy is the ultimate destination for relaxing and enjoying nature.
- Lille
One noteworthy French city to visit is the northern city of Lille. The capital of Hauts de France is another travel destination that will mesmerize you. Filled with rich history, architecture, and cultural scenes, Lille has everything to keep you entertained. Its proximity to Belgium recounts its influence as the merchant center for French Flanders. A tour of the Vieux-Lille will bring you to 17th-century brick townhouses, Baroque-style buildings, cobblestone streets, and Grand Place, the large central square. The city of Lille beautifully blends French and Dutch heritage, as the city once belonged to Flanders. In Vieux-Lille, you can visit Hospice Comtesse, where Flemish Countess Joan of Constantinople lived in the 13th century. Vieux-Lille is also the birthplace and hometown of Charles de Gaulle. You will also find the old stock exchange building and the famous Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral in View-Lille.
For other cultural sightings, you should visit museums such as the Lille Museum of Natural History, where you will see zoological specimens dating back to 1822. You will find fine art from established and less-known artists at the Palais des Beaux-Arts. As one of the first museums built in France, it houses collections from the 15th century to the modern age. You will find the work of Goya and masters of the Italian Renaissance. Another cultural sight includes Lille’s Porte de Paris, which celebrates Louis XIV’s conquest of the city. Also, visit Lille’s Citadel, built in the 17th century to defend the city from invaders. One of the best places to visit with kids is Lille’s Zoo, where you will find both endemic and exotic fauna. This free attraction ensures visitors of all ages have fun and mingle with nature.
Lille also boasts an excellent gastronomy culture. A combination of French culinary tradition and Belgian cuisine distinguishes Lille’s cuisine. You can try Belgian-influenced moules frites, a dish of mussels served with fries and different dressings. You should also try carbonade flamande, a beef-based dish cooked with beer accompanied by gingerbread, brown sugar, and mustard. Lille is also famous for its cheeses. Make sure you try the Boule de Lille, a red cheese delight. Enjoy pastries from Belgian influence such as waffles, cramique, a small raisin brioche coated with pearl sugar, and merveilleux, a small cake from Belgium made with meringues filled with a thick layer of whipped cream, coated with chocolate shavings and topped with a cherry.
- Lyon
Another city to consider as you flee Paris’s madness is Lyon. Lyon offers a gentle way of life where you can relax, enjoy its food culture, and cruise along its rivers. The capital city of the Auberge-Rhone-Alpes region gives you a history ride dating back to 43 BC. When in Lyon, begin your tour in Place Bellecour, where you will see one of the famous statues of Louis XIV riding without a saddle. Then head to Fourviere Hill, where you will find the statue of the Virgin Marie that has watched over the city since 1852—Marvel at the iconic Basilica of Fourviere, which overlooks the entire city of Lyon. You will find decorations with mosaics, stained-glass windows, and marble inside the church. With a Lyon City Card, you can access the basilica rooftop, giving you the best panoramic views of the cities. Another must-visit destination in Lyon is the Lugdunum Roman Theatres. This free attraction is open all year round. The Grand Theater, the oldest in France, holds concerts, festivals, and guided tours. It hosts the Les Nuits de Fourviere festival every summer, where you can catch comedy shows and concerts.
You cannot go to Lyon without visiting its Vieux-Lyon. The Old City of Lyon allows you to admire the medieval and Renaissance influences that make it unique. While at Vieux-Lyon, you should visit Saint-Jean Cathedral, which combines all the elements from Romanesque to the Gothic period. Explore the hidden gems in this district. When you take hidden passages that oblivious tourists may not know about, such as traboules, you will discover hidden courtyards with Italian-style galleries, wells, and spiral staircase towers. Lyon has so much for you to see and do that a day visit will not suffice. Before leaving Lyon, you must see le Palais de la Justice, Place de Celestin, and the Opera House. Travelers who love shopping can go to Carre d’Or. In the evening, Lyon offers you many activities to make your evening lively. You have plenty of opportunities for an eventful evening from concerts, festivals, evening aperitifs, and nightclubs.
Moreover, like its French counterparts, Lyon boasts an impressive gastronomy culture. Did you know that you can find vineyards in Lyon? Yes, Lyon has vineyards in its northern and southern regions of Beaujolais and Cotes du Rhone, where you will enjoy a relaxing day in its green scenery and wine. Travelers like me who love taking cooking classes can learn Lyon’s fine cuisine from its chefs. Learn to make your praline tart and a praline brioche like a Lyonnais. If you need more ideas on cooking recipes from Lyon, check out this culinary guide. A trip to Lyon will offer unforgettable experiences where you will marvel at its history, enjoy its cuisines, and unwind with its wine.
- Normandy
Many people know or remember the name “Normandy” every year when we celebrate D’Day. However, Normandy’s role in France’s victory during WWII is not the only reason this city is essential and a must-visit travel destination. One of the best reasons to visit Normandy is its famous sights, such as the D-Day landing beaches, Claude Monet’s house, Rouen, and Haras du Pin. However, I fell in love with Normandy when I first visited because of Mont Saint Michel and its bay. One thing that makes Normandy different from Paris is the slow tourism. You do not need to rush or fight with others to explore the city’s beauty. Normandy invites you to relax, discover, and indulge at your own pace. In Normandy, you will appreciate quality over quantity, whereas, in a city like Paris, visitors want to cram up their activities but not have an intimate experience. Visitors learn to enjoy the experiences and bask in Normandy’s creative spirit.
Another reason Normandy is a must-visit is its gastronomy. There are Camembert, Livarot, Neufchâtel, and Pont-L’Evêque for cheese lovers. For someone like me who loves seafood, you will have many options in Normandy. One of the best lambs I ever had was at this restaurant in Mont Saint Michel. You can also visit Mont Vine Cidery to craft your apple cider and learn about Normandy’s cider-making secrets. After eating and enjoying its apple-based drinks, such as calvados, embark on a history-learning adventure. Normandy’s history does not start at D-Day. Learn about Normandy’s medieval history, including figures such as William the Conqueror, Richard the Lionheart, and Joan of Arc. A visit to historical sights like Chateau-Gaillard, the medieval town of Domfront, and the ruins of Jumieges Abbeys will take you on 500 years of exploration of Normany’s medieval history. For a comprehensive history of the legendary Joan of Arc, Normandy has a museum, the Joan of Arc Historical Museum in Rouen, dedicated to her. But above all, you should visit Normandy for a relaxing day at its beaches. Another highlight of visiting Normandy is the access to other small towns.
- Toulouse
Lastly, the Pink City of Toulouse is a French city outside Paris. La Ville Rose, as it is known, takes you on an adventure out of this world, literally as it is the center of Europe’s aerospace industry. A trip to Toulouse takes you on a historical adventure dating back to the Iron Age. It is a city of heritage and beautiful adventures. Whether you like concerts, museums, exhibitions, or festivals, the Pink City has many adventures to splurge on. One of the unique factors of Toulouse is its architecture. Its pinkish brick architecture, which earned the nickname “La Ville Rose,” offers much to do and see to ensure visitors have rosey adventures. You will find a mix of medieval architecture, such as the Gothic-style Saint-Etienne cathedral, the Romanesque Basilica of Saint-Sernin, and the Gothic Eglise de Jacobins. You will also find a lot of Renaissance architecture in Toulouse, including hôtels de Bernuy and the Hôtel d’Assézat, which promoted literary talents. Another must-see in Toulouse is the Capitole. This building has been a staple in Toulouse’s history since the 12th century.
Another must-do activity in Toulouse is the Canal du Midi, which links the city to the Mediterranean Sea. You can walk along the canal, ride a bike, or go by boat. For another relaxing adventure, you can head to the banks of the River Garonne. You can go to Pont Neuf, Dome de la Grave, and the River Garonne for a serene city view. Whether alone or with friends and family, these points are great for promenades, sunbathing during the summer, or having a picnic. Summertime in Toulouse calls for numerous nautical activities. You can hire an electric boat and sail the Garonne River, canoe, or kayak through the city center, giving you a different way to discover the city. Those who love green nature can hang out at Le Jardin des Plantes, where you will find free-range chicken, centuries-old trees, and fun activities for children. Another place for peace and relaxation is the Chateaux de Reynerie and Park, where you can stroll and admire the 18th-century chateaux. Travelers with kids will enjoy time at the Toulouse Museum and the Aeroscopia Aeronautica Museum, ensuring a great family-friendly atmosphere.
To conclude, Paris is a wonderful travel destination. As it hosts the Summer Olympics this year, visitors will be in for a treat as the already famous city with so much to see and do is ready to ensure this Olympic season offers memorable experiences. However, with so much buzz and events, some tourists may want to escape, relax, and enjoy their vacations without overcrowdedness. Luckily for these travelers, French cities outside Paris have much to do. The 13 French cities listed offer their visitors great escapes. A visit to any of these destinations will ensure you learn French history, indulge in the diversity in France, and taste different French cuisines. From Rennes to Montpellier, Nice to Saint-Malo, and Toulouse to Lille, visitors have access to unique adventures that demonstrate how they contribute to France being the most traveled country in the world.
As always, thank you for reading. Please leave a friendly comment, suggestion, or question in the comment box below. Until next time, Bon Voyage!
Xoxo,
Cy
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