My Top 5 Cities to Visit in France at Least Once
By: Sadie | See with Sadie
France is one of those countries where you could visit over and over again and still feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface. From the Mediterranean coastline to wine country, there is so much more to France than Paris.
If I were planning a trip to France, these are the 5 places I would put at the top of my list.
Nice
If you only have time for one destination in the South of France, Nice would be my pick. Nice has a perfect combination of everything I love about a European vacation: beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, incredible food, shopping, charming streets, and plenty of places to explore.
The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most recognizable spots in the city, and I could easily spend an entire afternoon just walking along the water. Nice is also a great home base if you want to explore more of the French Riviera.
How long I'd stay: 2–3 nights
Menton
Menton is the definition of a hidden gem. Located on the French Riviera near the Italian border, Menton has colorful buildings, beautiful gardens, incredible views, and a much more relaxed atmosphere than some of the busier destinations along the coast.
It's the kind of place I would recommend if you want the beauty of the French Riviera without feeling like you're constantly surrounded by tourists. I mean, the colorful buildings alone make me want to book a trip.
How long I'd stay: 1–2 nights
Bordeaux
If you're looking for a completely different side of France, Bordeaux needs to be on your list. Bordeaux is beautiful, elegant, and obviously famous for wine. But you don't have to be a wine expert to enjoy the city.
The historic center is beautiful to walk around, there are incredible restaurants and cafés, the city has a really nice balance of culture, food, architecture, and relaxation. And if you are a wine lover? Even better. You can use Bordeaux as a base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and taking day trips to places like Saint-Émilion.
How long I'd stay: 3 nights
Paris
Paris is iconic. Paris is beautiful. Paris is absolutely worth seeing at least once. But I think Paris is a little overrated. Of course, you have to see the Eiffel Tower, walk around the city, visit the Louvre, see the Arc de Triomphe, eat a croissant at a little café, and wander through the neighborhoods.
There is a reason Paris is one of the most famous cities in the world. But when I compare it to the South of France, I'd personally choose Nice or Menton.
That doesn't mean I wouldn't recommend Paris. I think everyone should experience it at least once. I just wouldn't necessarily make it my entire France vacation.
How long I'd stay: 3–4 nights
Provence
If you're looking for the slow-paced side of France, Provence needs to be on your list.
This is the France I picture when I think about slow mornings, little cafés, beautiful villages, local markets, vineyards, lavender fields, and long lunches. Provence feels completely different from Paris or the French Riviera, which is exactly why I love it. It's a place where you can slow down, wander through cute little towns, enjoy great food, and take in the scenery without feeling like you have to rush from attraction to attraction.
And if you visit during lavender season? An absolutely magical experience.
How long I'd stay: 3–4 nights
My Rankings
Nice
Menton
Provence
Bordeaux
Paris
If you're planning a trip to France, you don't have to choose just one.
My go to trip line-up: Nice → Menton → Provence
Or for a longer trip: Paris → Bordeaux → Nice → Menton → Provence
France is one of those destinations where the best trip isn't necessarily about checking every famous attraction off your list. It's about finding the places that fit your travel style.
For me? Give me the French Riviera, a cute hotel, a plate of pasta, a glass of wine, and a Mediterranean view. I'll take that over a crowded Paris street any day.
Need a place to stay? Check out my go to hotels in France HERE!
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