France, renowned for its iconic landmarks and picturesque landscapes, harbors a treasure trove of unique places waiting to be discovered.
Beyond the well-trodden paths of Paris and the French Riviera lie extraordinary destinations that offer unique experiences for the intrepid traveler.
These unique destinations showcase France’s diverse beauty and rich cultural heritage, from ancient villages perched atop cliffs to surreal natural wonders.
Below, discover the 15 most unique places in France that are genuinely worth seeing.
15 Most Unique Places to Visit in France That Worth Seeing
Ready to explore the road less traveled in France? Discover 15 of the most unique places that are truly worth seeing below.
I’d be happy to provide engaging paragraphs about these unique places to visit in France. Here’s a description for each location:
1. Lac Blanc
– A Crystal-Clear Lake with Reflections of Mont Blanc
Lac Blanc in the French Alps is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in France.
This crystal-clear high-altitude lake, situated at 2,352 meters, offers some of the most spectacular views of the snow-capped Mont Blanc, creating a mirror-like effect that’s truly breathtaking.
Hikers can reach the lake via several trails, each offering unique perspectives of the Alpine landscape.
2. Dune of Pilat
– The Tallest Sand Dune in Europe
The Dune of Pilat is one of the most unusual places to visit in France. Located on the Atlantic coast near Bordeaux, it’s the tallest sand dune in Europe, reaching 110 meters in height.
Climbing this massive sand mountain is a must-do bucket list activity in France. Visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the lush Landes forest on the other.
3. Aigues-Mortes
– A Completely Walled Medieval Town in the Camargue Salt Marshes
Aigues-Mortes is a fascinating medieval walled city that stands as one of the unusual destinations in France.
Located in the Camargue region, this perfectly preserved fortress town appears to rise from the surrounding salt marshes like a mirage.
Visitors can walk the complete circuit of the city walls, offering stunning views of the pink salt flats and distant mountains.
The town’s grid-like street layout, unchanged since the 13th century, is home to charming cafes, boutiques, and historical sites like the Tour de Constance.
4. Rocamadour
– A Medieval Town Built Vertically on a Cliff Face
Perched on a cliff face in the Dordogne region, Rocamadour is undoubtedly one of the coolest places to visit in France.
This vertical medieval French town seems to defy gravity, with its buildings and sanctuaries clinging to the rocky face.
Visitors can climb the 216 steps of the Grand Staircase to reach the château at the top, or take the scenic lift for panoramic views of the Alzou Canyon.
Don’t miss the chance to sample the famous Rocamadour cheese or explore the nearby Padirac Cave, one of the most impressive underground networks in Europe.
5. Peillon
– A Perched Hilltop Medieval Village Near the French Riviera
Hidden in the hills above Nice, Peillon is a medieval village, often called a “perched village,” that seems to grow out of the rocky mountainside.
Its narrow, winding streets and centuries-old stone houses create a labyrinthine layout that’s a joy to explore.
Visit the Church of St. Mary and St. Lambert to see its beautiful frescoes, or hike the surrounding trails for breathtaking vistas.
6. Mont Saint-Michel
– A Tidal Island Village Crowned by a Medieval Abbey
For one of the most iconic and unique things to do in France, we highly recommend you visit Mont Saint-Michel.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a medieval abbey perched on a rocky tidal island off the coast of Normandy (you can easily visit it on a day trip from Paris).
Visitors can explore the abbey’s Gothic architecture, wander the village’s narrow streets below, and witness the dramatic change in landscape as the tides ebb and flow around the island.
7. Abbaye de Sénanque
– A Cistercian Abbey Surrounded by Lavender Fields
The Abbaye de Sénanque is a serene and picturesque destination that offers one of the most unique experiences in France.
This 12th-century Cistercian abbey, nestled in a quiet valley near the village of Gordes in Provence, is surrounded by fragrant lavender fields.
The sight of the abbey’s stark stone architecture contrasting with the vibrant purple lavender is truly breathtaking, especially during the blooming season in June and July.
8. Saorge
– A Village of Stacked Houses Clinging to a Mountainside
Clinging to a mountainside in the Alpes-Maritimes, Saorge is one of the unusual sights in France. This medieval village offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its narrow, steep streets and houses built into the rock face.
Visitors can explore the 16th-century Franciscan monastery, now a cultural center, or hike the surrounding trails for panoramic views of the valley.
9. Carcassonne
– A Medieval Citadel with 53 Towers and Double Walls
Carcassonne, with its fairy-tale-like appearance, is one of the best medieval cities to visit in France. This citadel boasts an impressive double-walled fortification and 53 towers.
Walking along the ramparts offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Pyrenees mountains in the distance.
Explore the winding cobblestone streets, visit the 12th-century Château Comtal, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
10. Les Baux-de-Provence
– A Fortified Hilltop Village with Ruins Overlooking the Alpilles
One of the most interesting places to visit in France is Les Baux-de-Provence. It is a remarkable medieval village, perched atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains.
The ruined castle that crowns the village tells tales of its turbulent history and provides a fascinating exploration site.
What truly sets Les Baux apart is the nearby Carrières de Lumières, a former quarry transformed into an immersive art space.
Here, visitors can experience stunning audio-visual shows projected onto the massive limestone walls, creating a unique and unforgettable sensory experience.
11. Pont-en-Royans
– A Village with Colorful Houses Suspended over the Bourne River
Pont-en-Royans, a hidden gem in France, is located in the Vercors Regional Natural Park and is famous for its colorful houses suspended over the Bourne River.
These multi-story houses, dating back to the 16th century, were originally built to accommodate local tradesmen and their families. For a thrilling experience, try canyoning in the nearby Gorges de la Bourne.
12. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
– A Village Nestled Between Limestone Cliffs
Nestled between two rocky cliffs, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a picturesque village famous for its fine porcelain and unique setting in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region.
Visitors can explore the village’s ceramic workshops, hike to the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel for panoramic views, or visit the nearby Lavender Museum.
13. Mer de Glace
– France’s Largest Glacier, Accessible By a Scenic Mountain Train
The Mer de Glace, or “Sea of Ice,” in the Mont Blanc massif near Chamonix, is the largest glacier in France.
Visitors can take a scenic train ride on the Montenvers Railway to reach the glacier, where they can explore ice caves carved into the glacier itself.
These caves, illuminated with colorful lights, provide an otherworldly experience and a close-up view of the glacier’s interior.
14. Fontaine de Vaucluse
– A village built around a mysterious spring that emerges from a 230-meter cliff
Fontaine de Vaucluse is a small village that is home to the largest spring in France. The emerald-green waters of the spring emerge from a mysterious underground cavern at the foot of a towering limestone cliff.
Visitors can follow a scenic path along the Sorgue River to the spring’s source, where they’ll witness the sight of water gushing from the rocky depths.
The village itself is charming, with its old water wheels and the former home of the famous poet Petrarch.
15. Pont d’Arc
– A Massive Natural Limestone Arch Spanning the Ardèche River
Pont d’Arc, is a magnificent natural stone arch carved by the Ardèche River. This impressive 54-meter wide and 60-meter high formation serves as a stunning gateway to the Ardèche Gorges.
Visitors can admire the arch from viewpoints, kayak beneath it, or explore nearby hiking trails and prehistoric caves.
Final Thoughts On The Most Interesting Places To Visit In France
From the medieval charm of Carcassonne to the natural wonder of Pont d’Arc, each unique destination listed above promises unforgettable memories for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, these unusual places showcase a side of France that many travelers miss.
Our blog has more fascinating articles on France travel to uncover even more unique destinations in this beautiful country.
