Vacations trips to France generally mean a romantic outing in glamorous Paris, sunny holidays in Cannes, and other popular places. But, many other places are there to be discovered and explored, adding more meaning to French culture than the Riviera and Eiffel tower.
Here we have listed the top five most overlooked places, which will take you to the most off-the-beaten path with their beauty, culture, significance, and uniqueness.
Lyon
Being France’s second-largest city, visitors have overlooked Lyon for many years. This oldest city in France is popular for its unique food scenes worldwide. It boasts the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage establishments and the many Renaissance buildings. Also, Lyon houses several museums; some display the ancient history of Lyon, and others contribute to art. Also, due to world-class gourmet features, people come to this site to visit restaurants, from posh ones to family-run small foods tall. Everywhere you can enjoy the pleasant environment with mouth-watering dishes.
The best spot to explore in Lyon is the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. This place settles on the highest hill, and the view of Basilica is visible from every corner of Lyon. It even has another name given by locals, i.e., “upside-down elephant”, dating back to the 19th century. Additionally, this building was built in the name of the Virgin Mary, and the rulers used this establishment to protect the city’s wealth.
Avignon
Avignon resides on the bank of the Watergate of Rhone River. Pop lived here for a couple of decades in the early 14th century. So for this reason, this city is historically famous, and its canonical buildings boast exuberant architecture. Also, this Avignon is famous for a huge assortment of historical instances in local museums, enriched culture, theatres, and movie halls.
Here, one building that is the oldest and very famous worldwide is the Palace of the Popes. It has a unique architectural design that exhibits a palace and fortress together. Also, it is one of the most extensive Gothic buildings in Europe. Locals say that this palace was the home of several popes. This UNESCO World Heritage site currently entertains travellers with the city’s yearly art events, Festival d’Avignon, and other festivals on its ground.
Toulouse
In Southern France, River Garonne addresses another unrated city, i.e., Toulouse. It is exactly located midway between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This city has its crowning name, La Ville Rose. It means Pink City, those portraits of the pink bricks embracing most of the buildings of Toulouse. Also, the city’s liveliness, two UNESCO World Heritage sites, numbers of Romanesque architecture, Gothic buildings, and Renaissance instances are the best attractions to visitors.
While travelling to Toulouse, visit the most significant building Capitole, dating back to the 18th century. Its spectacular neoclassical architecture will amaze you. Aside from this, this Capitole houses two majestic buildings; Théâtre du Capitole and Town Hall. Inside this building, the staterooms exhibit a giant gallery with artworks which illustrate the history of Toulouse.
Vienne
There was a time when Vienne was the major centre of the Roman Realm. It lies on the bank of the Rhone River in the southeastern part of France. This city witnesses many historic establishments, such as; Théâtre Antique and Temple d’Auguste et de Livie. These buildings date back to the 1st century and showcase the enriched historical environment of Vienne. Also, the heritage sites tell the story of medieval culture, colonial buildings, monarchical setups, churches, and tapered lanes.
This city houses many world-famous annual festivals. One of these is Vienne Jazz Festival held in the roman Theatre. Others are historical events and festivals of ironic comics. Besides this, the city boasts the second largest market with the best local products in France, which takes place in the city’s centre every Saturday.
Menton
French Riviera is the home to Menton, lying on the Côte d’Azur. The climate of Menton is soothing and warm due to its closeness to the Italian border. So travellers enjoy Mediterranean sky air all year long. The town gives a vibrant touch with graceful pastel-shaded buildings and a picturesque old harbour. Here, you will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Riviera on its tugged sandy beaches. Also, if you want to relax in peaceful surroundings, the beauties of these beaches will give you that ideal place.
Menton is lying on the French coastline so you can enjoy various sea foods. The taste is impeccable. Also, you can experience the mouth-watering essence of French Cuisine. Even you will see beautiful garnished plates with citrus fruit, which greatly influences almost all French Cuisine’s main dishes. Besides this, you will explore the ancient erected and cobbles steps, parochial streets, and winding avenues. Lastly, the most beautiful cemetery on the hill will give you an amazing sweeping view of the city.
France’s top five unrated cities will take you to a dreamy planet with their picturesque landscape of nature with lush gardens and sweeping city views. These will be a pleasant treat for your mind. Besides this, the historical heritage of these cities is the favourite of many visitors due to its numerous artisanal cafes, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. So, this is the best time to pack your bag and go on this new adventure.
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