France is one of the world’s top destination, receiving over 83 million tourists annually. People over the globe are drawn to France’s picturesque countryside, romantic chateaux, fine wines, exquisite cuisine, dazzling landmarks and sophisticated culture.
If you are not a Paris person, you are in the right place. From seaports to chateaux and villages with mesmerizing scenery, these travel destinations deserve a visit.
MARSEILLE
Marseille is France’s second largest city and one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is a major Mediterranean seaport with an idyllic climate, located off the south coast of the country. The city is rich in culture and history. And it is also known for the distinguished cultural venues, medieval architectural and beautiful Roman ruins.
LYON
Lyon is located in east-central France and it is the third largest city in the country with a boasting history. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, gastronomy and historic architecture. Did you know that Lyon is regarded as the gastronomy capital of the world?
The city is comprised of various districts. For instance, Brotteaux is the wealthy district know for the astonishing Tete d’Or park, Fourvière has Gothic churches and wonderful Roman ruins. Croix-Rousse is popular for its hidden passageways, while Presqu’île is the heart of the city with bars and restaurants.
STRASBOURG
Strasbourg is located right on the border of Germany and France and that’s why there are many German features. The city is the seat of the European Parliament and many other important European institutions like the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights. Grande Île or the historic center in Strasbourg makes the city one of the best places to visit in the whole country. Visitors can find many cafes, shops, museums as well as striking attractions like the Gotic cathedral which features a 300-year old working astrological clock.
LOIRE VALLEY
The Loire Valley is a popular tourist destination in the center of France and it is known for its historic villages, picturesque vineyards, splendid chateaux and spectacular scenery. It has a temperature climate with long summers and short, yet cold winters.
This region stretches 280km along the Loire River, twisting and turning through some of France’s most fascinating villages and breathtaking chateaux, including Chenonceau, Chinon, Rivau, Amboise, and Chambord. The valley is also home to 3 regional natural parks: Perche, la Brenne, and Loire-Anjou-Touraine. You can also find many wineries that offer tours and wine tastings as well.
FRENCH RIVIERA
The French Riviera is also called Cote d’ Azur and it is located on the French coast on the Mediterranean Sea. Despite being one of the more northerly coasts on the Mediterranean, the Riviera enjoys a wonderfully mild to warm climate all year round. It is the playground for the famous, rich and hordes of tourists from all over the world. The Cannes Film Festival, Monaco and St. Tropez are the most popular destinations to visit, but there are other less well-known places, such as the perfumeries of Grasse, and the perched villages of Eze and Saint-Paul de Vence.
Did you know that the Cannes festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals? And did you know that Monaco is the second smallest country in the world?