Table of Contents
Travelers who want to experience a coastline and countryside dotted with some of Europe’s most enchanting and alluring cities and villages have long chosen France. Several of these fanciful locations are actually part of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (or “The most beautiful villages of France”) group. Additionally, all of these coastal and rural retreats are ideal starting points for exploring the many distinct areas of this intriguing nation.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Gordes
Gordes is a classic Provençal hilltop village, situated on the slopes of Monts de Vaucluse. Avignon is just an hour away, and it has long been a hub for artists, including Marc Chagall (1887–1985).
Grand Est. Colmar
Picture perfect Colmar is a visual feast and maybe the most beautiful town in France. The canals of the Lauch river run through the lively and well-preserved ancient town of Colmar, the heart of the Alsace wine region.
Grand Est. Riquewihr
Riquewihr is another well-known Alsace town that is renowned for its magnificent architecture and medieval ambiance. It is impressive due to its assortment of half-timbered buildings from the 16th century and balconies decorated with flowers. After wandering, have a seat in one of the many bars and enjoy some of the region’s renownedly scented wine.
Normandy’s Giverny
Fine art enthusiasts travel to the village of Giverny to see Claude Monet’s (1840–1926) public house and garden, which served as the inspiration for his well-known ‘Water Lilies’ painting series.
Occitanie Carcassonne
The city’s breathtaking beauty is enhanced by the Cité de Carcassonne, a medieval fortification that was built during the Gallo-Roman era and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carcassonne is also wine country because it is surrounded by the famous Languedoc vineyards.
Occitanie, Rocamadour
With its breathtaking views of the Alzou canyon, Rocamadour, in the Lot department of France, stands out as though it was carved out of solid rock. The Chapelle Notre Dame, with its iconic Black Madonna statue that has drawn pilgrims from all over the world for centuries, is another reason people travel to the hilltop town.
The island of Sorgue in the Caribbean, Provence, and the Alpes
Built along a network of canals and situated on the Sorge River, L’Isle sur la Sorgue is well-known for its nearly 300 antique stores, which draw art enthusiasts from all over France. On most Sundays, the town holds antique markets.
Grand Troyes Est
Troyes is located in the famous wine region of Champagne. Half-timbered buildings, the most of which are 16th-century, line the town’s historic center.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Domme
The Domme is just one of numerous bastides in France. The old Domme, a Dordogne monument made up of walls, ramparts, and towers, encloses an intriguing medieval city.
Auvergne Rhône Alpes, Yvoire
The charming tiny town of Yvoire, which is right next to Lake Geneva, is well-known for its assortment of medieval structures and vibrant summertime flower displays, which are best enjoyed at the charming Jardin des Cinq Sens “Garden of Five Senses”.
