Nine reasons there is more to France than Paris

Explore the magnificence of France beyond its famous Parisian landmarks. Discover the essence of French culture, history, and natural beauty in all the other fantastic regions that are often overlooked.

Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes and hidden gems of France, where every region has its own unique charm waiting to be explored.

Historical landmarks
Paris has the Eiffel Tower. But the rest of France has the Palace of Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel, Notre Dame Cathedral, Sacre-Coeur, Old Port of Marseille, and the ancient Roman amphitheater in Arles.

So many exquisite historical landmarks to visit, so little time!

Normandy is especially rich in history, so add this region to your France itinerary. A Band of Brothers Tour will take you to the D-Day landing beaches where you’ll be able to put yourself in the shoes of the brave soldiers who fought in WWII.

Rich cultural heritage
France is a country that dutifully honors their cultural history with reverence. The French people look after their past with vigor.

You’ll find a wealth of history, architecture, and local traditions in places such as Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg. Visit cathedrals, châteaux’s, castles, etc. such as Loire châteaux or Mont Saint-Michel.

Experience France’s rich cultural heritage by spending a night in one of its picturesque castles! Enjoy Château de Chantilly, the Palace of Versailles, or the Chateau de Chenonceau.

Stunning natural landscapes
France boasts incredibly diverse and fascinating natural landscapes.

The three different coastlines, the Channel, Western, and the Mediterranean each hold their special qualities. Between these expansive coastlines, you’ve got other majestic natural water sources such as rivers, lakes, and great estuaries.

Provence provides healing lavender fields. The countryside brings you peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The various mountain ranges, such as the Alps, the Pyrenees, Jura, Massif Central, and the extinct volcanoes in the Auvergne, are certainly worth exploring and admiring.

World-class wine regions
You’re likely aware of France’s renowned wine production. Your bottles of Bordeaux and Champagne at home are named after the French regions from which they originate.

Each French region has its specialty wine. Within the country of France, there are over 450 types of homemade wine for you to taste.

Travel through the regions of Burgundy, Claret, and the Loire Valley to enjoy some of the finest wines in the world!

Gastronomic delights
French cuisine extends far beyond the city of Paris. In fact, at the World Culinary Awards 2023. France received the award for Europe’s Best Culinary Destination.

Travel to Brittany for exceptional oysters, cider, and crepes. Stop over in Marseille for their bouillabaisse. Don’t miss out on the cassoulet in Toulouse, and the coq au vin in Burgundy. Other regions serve delectable croissants, baguettes, seafood, and a whopping 400 varieties of cheese!

Travel anywhere in France for unique, rich food, valuable recipes, and specialized cooking techniques

Charming villages
Experience a glimpse of traditional French life and architecture in Annecy. This postcard village is lined with charming half-timbered houses and a spectacular view of the Bauges and Aravis mountains surrounding the town.

The old fishing village of Trentemoult is accessible via ferry. Traipse along the village’s intertwined streets and colorful houses, leading to the flowing river.

Wander through the secret-covered passageways of Lyon to the Saône River for red wine and charcuterie in a traditional restaurant.

Artistic legacy
Paris has the Louvre Museum with the Mona Lisa. But there is so much more to France’s rich artistic heritage.

Visit the sandy beaches and salt ponds in Camargue National Park in Arles with which Van Gogh fell in love. Or drop in on the cities of Nice and Aix-en-Provence that inspired Matisse and Cézanne.

These cities, including Marseille, invite you to visit their local museums, galleries, theaters, and concert halls. Soak in the rich French artistic legacy.

Outdoor activities
Enjoy hiking? Go an adventure to the mountains of the Pyrenees National Park in Lourdes. Or climb up to the dramatic needle-like mountaintop of Col de Bavella.

Water sports more your flavor? Swim, snorkel, and lounge on the beaches of Cannes, Nice, and Cote de Azure. Surf in Biarritz. Sail along the French Riviera. The options are endless!

La Grave mountain range in France is a key slope to check out for pro skiers. But there are an extensive collection of French ski resorts to choose from if you are fond of skiing!

Festivals and events
Cannes and Nice are not only the homes of water sports, but they also host the Cannes Film Festival and the Nice Carnival, respectively.

There’s always something exciting and vibrant happening in France outside of Paris! The Avignon Theater Festival is one of the biggest performing arts festivals in the world. Once a year Avignon is transformed into a “city-theater” with performing arts surprises around every corner.

Then in summer, Arles hosts the world’s most famous photography festival. Rencontres d’Arles is the perfect place to discover your new favorite photographer.