Planning a trip to France? You’re probably wondering which are the best French cities to visit.
It’s tough to choose!
France is definitely my favorite travel destination, and I’ve visited this amazing country over half a dozen times. I’ve traveled from Paris to the beaches of Normandy to the sunny French Riviera – and many places in between!
I’m here to give you the scoop on all of my favorite cities and towns in France to help you pick which city in France to visit on your next trip.
I’ve personally visited all of these places – several of them, more than once.
Ready to find a new favorite destination in France?
Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
The Best French Cities to Visit in 2024
Paris
Paris is the vibrant capital of France and a treasure trove of culture, art, and history. Paris certainly earns its place at the top of the list of the best cities in France.
Paris is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, iconic museums, and culinary delights. There are so many iconic attractions in Paris that you can spend several days checking things off your bucket list.
I’ve visited many times and always discover something new on each trip!
The Eiffel Tower is the iconic emblem of Paris. Admire it from the ground or ascend for a panoramic view of Paris. For the best pictures of the Eiffel Tower, head across the river to the Trocadéro. Watch the sparkling lights show while taking a Seine River dinner cruise – it’s one of the best night tours in Paris!
Stroll down the tree-lined Champs-Élysées to view the famous Arc de Triomphe. Along the way, shoppers will delight in browsing the wares in the myriad luxury boutiques. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with tempting macarons from the famed Ladurée bakery.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll adore visiting the world-class museums in Paris. Visit the Louvre; its collections contain thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Other top-notch museums include the Musée d’Orsay for Impressionist art (my personal favorite) and the Centre Pompidou for modern creations.
Paris retains a sense of intimacy through its charming cafes, hidden alleys, and serene parks and gardens. Some of the most romantic things to do in Paris are strolling along the banks of the Seine and enjoying a picnic for two in the Luxembourg Gardens.
Lyon
Lyon is the third-largest city in France and has earned a reputation as the capital of French gastronomy. This is one of the top reasons Lyon is worth visiting (and makes it a must-visit destination for foodies!).
Whether you choose fine dining at one of Lyon’s many Michelin-starred restaurants or prefer a hearty meal at a traditional Lyonnais bouchon, your taste buds are in for a treat. Shop for tasty treats at the gourmet food market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse.
Lyon is filled with incredible historic attractions designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Stroll through historic Vieux Lyon, with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and hidden traboules. It’s the ideal place to take that perfect Lyon photo!
One of the top things to do in Lyon is to take the funicular to the top of Fourvière Hill. This is where you’ll find Lyon’s stunning basilica, Notre-Dame de Fourvière, decorated with gilded mosaics. And the panoramic views of Lyon from this hilltop vantage point are unparalleled!
Lyon is filled with stunning architecture. The best way to see the array of architectural styles is on a relaxing sightseeing boat tour on the Saône. Admire the Renaissance architecture of Old Lyon and ultra-modern buildings like the Musée des Confluences.
One of Lyon’s unique attractions is its fabulous public art scene. Look for the grand trompe-l’oeil murals of the Mur des Canuts and the Fresque des Lyonnais, featuring famous Lyon residents from history and the modern day.
If you visit Lyon in the summer, enjoy music performances throughout June and July at Les Nuits de Fourvière. If you visit in December, you’re in for a treat with the Fête des Lumières. Lyon’s buildings are illuminated with creative lighting installations in this spectacular Festival of Lights.
Strasbourg
Located at the crossroads of Europe, Strasbourg is known for its remarkable historical center, the Grande Île. It was the first city center classified entirely by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
This picturesque city offers a unique blend of French and German culture, reflected in its architecture and gastronomy.
You’ll definitely want to take some time to visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. This cathedral boasts an impressive Gothic façade and an astronomical clock. You won’t want to miss the clock’s automaton show – but you will need a ticket to see the performance. You can also climb the cathedral’s tower to enjoy fabulous panoramic views of Strasbourg.
La Petite France is the most charming area in Strasbourg. It’s famous for its well-preserved half-timbered houses and canals. Enjoy the beautiful sights of Petite France and the 17th-century Vauban Dam by taking a river cruise. The river cruise will also pass by the modern European Parliament building.
You’ll want to enjoy some of the specialties of Alsatian cuisine during your visit to Strasbourg. My favorite is tarte flambée (also called flammekueche), a thin-crust pizza topped with fromage blanc, onions, and lardons. For a heartier meal, try choucroute garnie, a tasty dish of sauerkraut with sausages.
Strasbourg is home to one of Europe’s oldest and most vibrant Christmas markets, Christkindelsmärik. The market starts at the end of November and ends on Christmas Eve. It’s a memorable experience to participate in the festive holidays in France!
Whether you stroll through the streets admiring architecture or savor the local food and wine, you’ll be captivated by Strasbourg’s one-of-a-kind charms.
Nice
If you want to spend time on the sunny French Riviera, Nice is your perfect destination in France. Nice boasts several kilometers of beaches along the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean.
Climb up Colline du Château (Castle Hill) for picturesque views of the city and the azure waters of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels).
Nice boasts a Mediterranean climate, meaning you can enjoy mild temperatures most of the year. This is why it became famous as a winter resort town in France (for which it has received the UNESCO designation.) Nice is ideal if you’re seeking sunshine and sea breezes, especially if you visit France in winter.
One of the best things to do in Nice is to stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. This iconic seafront boulevard follows the curve of the beach, with the city’s vibrant hotels and restaurants lining its northern side.
Spend time exploring picturesque Vieux Nice, with its historic lanes. Visit the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, a fantastic market filled with fresh flowers and produce.
Nice has a unique cuisine that is more Mediterranean than what you’ll find in other parts of France. Enjoy local favorites such as salade Niçoise and socca (a crispy chickpea pancake that’s perfect for snacking!).
Looking to experience some of the best festivals in France? February brings the Carnival de Nice. It’s one of the world’s largest Carnival celebrations and is a must-see! Jazz fans will want to visit in July to attend the Nice Jazz Festival, an incomparable musical extravaganza.
Whether for the food, the history, or the scenic views, you’ll find that Nice is one of the best French cities to visit.
Avignon
When you visit Avignon, you’re stepping into a city rich with history and culture.
Avignon is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Palais des Papes. Once the fortress and palace of the popes during the 14th century, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It’s one of Europe’s largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings.
Another top attraction in Avignon is the Pont Saint-Bénézet. Also known as the Pont d’Avignon, this iconic bridge is immortalized in the French children’s song “Sur le pont d’Avignon.”
Enjoy views of Avignon from the hilltop Jardin des Doms, or cross the river for great views of the bridge. (Tip: Take the free ferry across the river.)
As you explore the city, you’ll notice that Avignon’s historic center is enclosed by 14th-century ramparts. Explore the Place de l’Horloge, a vibrant square with cafes and a carousel. And don’t miss Les Halles d’Avignon, a food market with a living botanical wall!
For theater fans, Avignon is a must-visit in July. Although you can enjoy live theater year-round in Avignon, July brings the Festival d’Avignon. It’s a performing arts extravaganza!
Your experience in Avignon will be enriched by its vibrant art scene, historical landmarks, and Provençal charm.
Nîmes
When you visit Nîmes, you travel to a city best known for its rich Roman heritage. It may be small, but it’s packed with historical treasures!
The Arena of Nîmes –one of the best-preserved Roman Amphitheaters in the world – is the heart of this legacy. Tour the arena with the help of an audio guide that transports you back to the era of gladiatorial contests.
Adjacent to the Arena is the Musée de la Romanité. This museum is housed in a modern building and contains a vast collection of Roman artifacts. My favorite part of the collection is the set of miniature Roman monuments, from the Arena of Nîmes to the Pantheon and the Colosseum of Rome.
The Maison Carrée is a beautifully preserved Roman temple, recently granted UNESCO World Heritage Status. Ironically, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just across the street from this ancient monument.
Continue studying the Roman history of Nîmes with a stroll through the Jardins de la Fontaine: These gardens are a tranquil haven where you can find the Temple of Diana and the Tour Magne standing tall above the French countryside.
When visiting Nîmes, take a day trip to see the marvelous Pont du Gard. It takes about a half-hour drive to see this incredible Roman viaduct bridge spanning the River Gardon.
Dijon
Dijon is in the heart of the Burgundy region, famed for its exquisite wines and rich gastronomy. Enjoy local specialties such as Dijon mustard and pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread).
This city is a feast for the palate and offers a glimpse into French history with its architecture. Admire the picturesque half-timbered houses in Dijon. Be sure to look at the rooftops to notice the colorful glazed tiles set in geometric patterns. This is one of the notable features of Burgundian architecture.
One of the best things to do in Dijon is to explore the Palais des Ducs. Once the seat of the Dukes of Burgundy, this palace is now home to the city’s excellent Fine Arts Museum. The museum has an extensive collection of paintings and statues and the elaborate tombs of some of the Dukes of Burgundy.
Follow the Owl’s Trail (Parcours de la Chouette) to see the 22 main attractions in Dijon. The trail is marked by brass plaques in the streets. The owl is a good-luck icon in Dijon, so keep your eyes open to spot the owl carved into the façade of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
A great way to spend a sunny afternoon in Dijon is to visit one of the parks, such as Jardin Darcy. Spend more time with nature by visiting the 19th-century Arquebuse Botanical Garden.
Amboise
Amboise is a picturesque town in the heart of the Loire Valley. It’s the perfect town to choose as a home base for exploring the gorgeous châteaux of the Loire Valley.
Amboise is renowned for the Château d’Amboise, a royal residence favored by kings and queens of France, including King François I. Walk through its opulent halls and stroll in its landscaped gardens, offering splendid views of the Loire River.
The Château du Clos Lucé is famed for being Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence. My favorite part of visiting this Château was exploring the extensive gardens, which feature replicas of his inventions. This brilliant artist and inventor is buried in Amboise at the Chapel of Saint Hubert.
One of my most treasured memories of our first trip to France was the hot-air balloon ride from Amboise. We drifted past the beautifully green French countryside and floated over the stunning Château de Chenonceau. This château has incredible architecture, including a gallery extending over the River Cher.
The Loire Valley is one of France’s most important wine regions and the largest producer of white wines. Enjoy a wine tasting, and you may discover a new favorite!
Cassis
Cassis is a charming coastal town in the South of France, nestled at the foot of the dramatic Cap Canaille cliff. Famous for its cliffs and the sheltered inlets called calanques, the town offers breathtaking scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.
When you visit Cassis, one of your first stops should be the picturesque harbor.
Take in the vibrant array of traditional pastel-colored houses. The waterfront is lined with cafes and restaurants, allowing you to savor fresh local seafood dishes alongside a view of the bobbing fishing boats.
One of the most popular activities in Cassis is to explore the natural beauty of the Calanques National Park on foot or by boat. (You can even go diving in the Calanques!) Take a scenic drive to the top of Cap Canaille, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for breathtaking panoramic views of the coast.
If you like relaxing on the beach, head to the Plage de la Grande Mer. Note that this is a pebbly beach rather than a sandy one, so bring your water shoes!
Final Thoughts:
Whether you prefer the iconic attractions and famous museums of Paris, the renowned gastronomy of Lyon or Dijon, or the small-town charms of Cassis, France has the perfect city for you.
No matter which French cities you choose, you’re sure to have a fabulous trip.
Why not spend a few extra days in France and visit more than one of these fantastic cities? You’ll be glad you did!
Bon voyage!
Author’s bio: Lisa Garrett is an engineer by profession, a traveler by obsession, and the founder of the Waves and Cobblestones and Travel to Lyon travel blogs. Whether you are planning a two-week trip to France or have just one day in Cabo San Lucas on a cruise, her destination guides and travel tips will help you have an amazing trip. Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
