Ready to discover France beyond the Eiffel Tower? From medieval wonders to seaside gems, these destinations blend history, art, and natural beauty.
Pack your bags for an unforgettable journey through the most beautiful cities in France.
The 12 Most Beautiful Cities in France to Visit
Discover why these prettiest cities in France deserve a place on your travel itinerary with their unique charm and distinctive character.
1. Annecy
Annecy sits between a crystal-clear alpine lake and mountains, earning its nickname “Venice of the Alps.”
The old town features colorful houses along canals with flower-adorned bridges and a 12th-century château overlooking the scene.
The medieval center ranks among the best cities in France for photography, with visitors enjoying the lakeside promenade, and strolling down picturesque alleys.
2. Colmar
Colmar preserves a well-preserved medieval center in the heart of Alsace wine country near the German border.
The historic district showcases colorful half-timbered houses lining cobblestone streets and peaceful canals in the area known as “Little Venice.”
This architectural gem attracts visitors with its distinctive Alsatian character, offering wine tastings, and explorations of its Unterlinden Museum.
3. Strasbourg
Strasbourg stands at the crossroads of French and German cultures as the capital of the Alsace region.
The historic Grande Île district features a magnificent Gothic cathedral alongside half-timbered houses along picturesque canals.
La Petite France quarter offers panoramic views from the cathedral tower, and scenic boat tours through canals.
4. Rouen
Rouen stands on the banks of the Seine River and is known for its impressive collection of Gothic churches and spires.
The medieval center features half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Visitors can explore the site of Joan of Arc’s execution, admire the ornate astronomical clock, and discover one of the best cities in Normandy, France.
5. Avignon
Avignon rises behind medieval walls crowned by the massive Palace of the Popes, testament to the city’s role as the center of Western Christianity.
The historic center contains well-preserved streets opening onto sunny squares with outdoor cafés and boutiques.
The UNESCO World Heritage site attracts visitors for its impressive papal palace tours, and walks atop the remaining city ramparts.
6. Bordeaux
Bordeaux stretches along the Garonne River with a collection of 18th-century limestone buildings earning UNESCO World Heritage status.
The city center features elegant boulevards, the stunning Place de la Bourse, and the world’s largest urban area of protected architecture.
Wine enthusiasts loves this city with its riverfront promenades, wine museum visits, and day trips to surrounding vineyards.
7. Lyon
Lyon sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers with a history spanning over 2,000 years from Roman times to today.
The Renaissance-era old town contains streets and courtyards beneath Fourvière hill with its basilica and ancient Roman theaters.
France’s gastronomic capital draws food lovers to its bouchon restaurants, and history buffs to its museums.
8. Troyes
Troyes displays one of France’s largest collections of colorful half-timbered houses in its historic center shaped like a champagne cork.
The medieval streets include the famous Ruelle des Chats (Cat Alley), where buildings lean so close their roofs nearly touch across the passageway.
Visitors explore its Gothic churches with stunning stained glass windows, and wander the vibrant covered market.
9. Bayonne
Bayonne stands at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers near the Spanish border in France’s Basque Country.
The old town displays distinctive half-timbered buildings with facades painted in red and green alongside fortifications designed by Vauban.
Visitors can sample its famous chocolate tradition dating to the 17th century, and explore the impressive Gothic cathedral.
10. Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo guards Brittany’s Emerald Coast behind massive granite ramparts that withstood centuries of attacks from the sea.
The old town contains well-preserved stone buildings housing restaurants, shops, and hotels that were meticulously reconstructed after World War II.
The coastal fortress provides visitors with rampart walks offering dramatic views, excursions to nearby islands, and explorations of the maritime history.
11. Nice
Nice stretches along the Mediterranean coastline with a stunning seven-kilometer promenade lined with palm trees and Belle Époque buildings.
The old town presents a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful markets, boutiques, and Italian-influenced architecture.
The city offers visitors hilltop viewpoints of the azure coast, opportunities to relax on pebble beaches, and chances to explore world-class art museums.
12. Amiens
Amiens sits in the Somme valley, featuring France’s largest Gothic cathedral – a UNESCO World Heritage site with a soaring 139-foot nave.
The city center combines a network of canals with colorful houses and medieval floating gardens called “hortillonnages.”
Visitors explore the cathedral, wander the Saint-Leu quarter with waterside restaurants, and experience the spectacular light show.
Final Thoughts on The Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in France
From Mediterranean shores to Alpine lakes, France offers urban beauty in diverse settings that appeal to every traveler’s taste.
Explore more of France’s incredible destinations with these guides:
- 20 Most Beautiful Villages in France
- 12 Most Beautiful Towns in France
- 15 Best Hidden Gems in France
Visit our blog for more France travel articles to inspire your next European adventure.
