There’s nothing like French cuisine. Nothing compares to the aroma of fresh croissants when you walk into a patisserie for breakfast or the heartwarming sensation you receive when you’re presented with a warm, crusty baguette decorated with melted butter and some delectable onion soup. And where better to sample this renowned cuisine than in France?! Here are five places in France that you must visit, not only for their traditional food but also for the gorgeous character and delightful way of life that these lovely cities offer.
1. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is known as the world’s wine capital in southwestern France, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic break.
The city is serene and lovely, with an elegant, creative culture that includes magnificent buildings and delectable foods like fresh oysters and great steaks. Visit the Cité du Vin wine museum to learn more about the history of winemaking. Bordeaux’s spectacular architecture, such as the beautiful Place de la Bourse and the Porte Cailhu, which was formerly part of the medieval city’s wall, contrast sharply with the active, entertaining lifestyle of the city’s college students, who account for a sizable share of the population. The atmosphere is welcoming and energetic, with a hint of sophistication. There are also several museums, cultural festivals, and other activities. Of course, if you’re a wine enthusiast, Bordeaux may already be on your list of places to visit.
2. Montpellier, France
Montpellier is located in southern France and is the fastest-growing city in France, with a fascinating combination of old and new. Begin your exploration of Montpellier in the Musee Fabre, which holds one of France’s most magnificent collections of European art. Later, visit the Opera house at Place de la Comédie, the city’s major plaza. Explore the city’s small alleyways to find local markets, unusual stores, bakeries, and cafés. Montpellier is one of France’s few significant cities without a Roman past. The counts of Toulouse created it in the 10th century, and it became noted for its intellectual focus, particularly its Medical School. A result is several equally impressive sites rather than arenas.
3. Caen
Caen, a tiny Normandy city with incredible history and fantastic shopping, is well worth visiting. You can find many marketplaces with healthy produce and a large selection of wines, designer businesses, and a good art scene. Explore Chateau de Caen, a vast 11th-century fortress of “Caen stone,” a cream-colored limestone. The Caen Memorial Museum is a must-see. Many consider it one of the most excellent World War II museums in France. Visit the Museum of Normandy to learn more about the region’s history and culture. While most of Caen was destroyed during the war, the city’s most important—and oldest—historical structures were spared while rebuilt the city. Because of its rich history and closeness to the region’s beaches and Alp-like mountains, it is now regarded as the most outstanding representation of Normandy.
4. Tours (Loire Valley)
Tours is one of France’s most picturesque cities, located in the Loire Valley. Stroll through the alleys of the old town, shop on the famous Rue Colbert in the day, and sip wine in the evening at one of the charming restaurants in Place Plumereau Square. Tours are also recognized for their well-maintained parks and gardens. Close by, the commune of Vouvray is filled with medieval castles, wineries, and vineyards. Tours, a great city with a diverse range of hotels ranging from affordable to high-end, is well worth a visit. Due to its vast open areas, Tours is renowned as the “Garden of France.” It contains tropical greenhouses and a petting zoo in its 19th-century botanical garden. The Musee des Beaux-Arts houses work by well-known artists, including Monet, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Tours are, of course, surrounded by vineyards.
5. Marseille
Marseille, France’s oldest and second-largest city, has a long and illustrious nautical heritage. Explore the Romano-Byzantine church Notre Dame de la Garde and taste Marseille’s fish stew on the bustling waterfront of Vieux Port. Kayak out to the stunning Les Calanques, a series of jagged coastal cliffs punctuated by little beaches. Stay in one of the fine hotels in the Old Port with balconies overlooking the square and take in the spectacular view. You may also spend a pleasant afternoon in Provence’s lavender fields. Notre Dame de la Garde is the city’s landmark church and is well worth visiting if you enjoy architecture. Stroll around the Vieux Port (old port) for a coastal ambiance and Instagram-worthy photographs. Les Calanques is a rocky landscape along the Mediterranean coast located just outside the city. It’s a popular hangout for both travelers and residents.
Conclusion
When you hear the word France, what comes to mind? It’s either Paris or a vineyard or château in the gorgeous countryside for most folks. And, Neither of those pictures is inaccurate, yet there is so much in between that we ignore. Also, If the prospect of being surrounded by buildings makes you uncomfortable, consider this: In most French cities, there are several parks, gardens, and green places where you may relax.
