After Countless Trips, these 7 French Cities Easily Beat Paris
Does Paris have exclusive rights to the country’s most enjoyable destinations? Tourists topped 89 million in France during 2023, with Paris leading as the most visited city, while other towns show greater strength in culture and personality when examined closely.
France’s National Institute of Statistics reported in 2024 that regional cities outside Paris experienced an 18% increase in visitors since 2019 because they provide exceptional experiences. These seven cities offer travel experiences rivaling Paris, whether you seek delicious food, seaside sunsets, or stunning architecture. Start adding destinations to your bucket list that will leave you speechless.
Lyon Steals the (Gastronomic) Show
Lyon holds the title of France’s food capital while serving as a UNESCO World Heritage site that originated in Roman times and features a sophisticated culinary scene that would embarrass any Parisian. With over 4,000 restaurants, the culinary city of Lyon features 20 Michelin-starred restaurants as of 2024 to add serious excitement to your travel plans.
Vieux Lyon showcases Renaissance-era charm, while Parc de la Tête d’Or is France’s largest urban park. Over 2 million people attend vibrant festivals like Fête des Lumières in December. Gourmands consider the renowned Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market a must-visit, while those who appreciate architecture will enjoy the city’s painted murals and Roman amphitheaters.
Pro tip: Sample the “mâchon” breakfast to determine if you will become enthusiastic about Lyon.
Marseille’s Portside Pulse and Multicultural Flavor
France’s oldest city (founded in 600 BC!) The city with the most sunshine in France enjoys 300 sunny days annually, which makes Paris appear dismal in comparison. But it’s not just about blue skies. Marseille combines its dynamic port activity and culturally varied neighborhoods with its European and North African influences to create a unique atmosphere not found anywhere else in France.
Explore the hilltop Notre-Dame de la Garde, wander the winding streets of Le Panier, or savor bouillabaisse by the Vieux-Port. Combining Mediterranean beaches, MuCEM art exhibits, and the magnificent Calanques National Park as day trip destinations grants Marseille instant respect from experienced travelers.
Bordeaux Delivers on Wine, Culture, and Elegance
Move over, Paris. Bordeaux lives up to its nickname, “La Belle Endormie” (Sleeping Beauty), through its captivating 18th-century architecture and modern art spaces while offering globally renowned wines. The wine region produces nearly 700 million bottles annually, generating an economy worth over €14 billion as of 2024.
Stroll along the city’s UNESCO-listed riverfront and capture a photo at Miroir d’Eau before exploring Marché des Capucins’ energy and visiting the CAPC Contemporary Art Museum to see world-famous exhibitions. And for oenophiles? This region offers adventure-filled choices for wine enthusiasts because vineyard tours are accessible by a simple tram ride.
Nice Shines with Mediterranean Glam
Enjoy your French vacation while soaking up some sunshine. Pleasant experiences 300 sunny days annually and receives approximately 5 million tourists annually. At the center of the French Riviera, this city blends Italian and Provençal elements through its pebble beaches, turquoise waters, the Promenade des Anglais, and breathtaking sunsets.
Art enthusiasts will marvel at the Marc Chagall and Matisse museums, while food lovers can enjoy local snacks such as socca or pissaladière. As they explore the old town’s winding alleyways, gelato shops and open-air markets beckon visitors. Nice is an ideal base for visiting Monaco and Antibes and embarks tourists on romantic day trips along the Côte d’Azur.
Strasbourg is Where France and Germany Tango
Strasbourg is a storybook-like city in France because of its half-timbered houses, twisting canals, and renowned Christmas markets. The Alsace region’s capital and the European Parliament’s official seat is a two-hour train ride from Paris. The city’s central point is its UNESCO-listed Grande Île, which features the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Cathedral at its summit.
The architecture, tarte flambée, and the local dialect demonstrate how French and German cultures blend in this location. Two million people visit Strasbourg’s winter Christmas markets each year, making them a major attraction that competes with Parisian holiday events.
Toulouse Pops with Pink Bricks and Aerospace Ambition
Toulouse looks glowing at sunset because its blushing terracotta buildings earn it the nickname “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City). Europe’s aerospace hub status is rooted in Toulouse, where Airbus headquarters and the Cité de l’Espace space museum draw science enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Walk beside the Garonne River or visit lively squares, such as Place du Capitole, to experience the vibrant energy of France’s most renowned student body. Toulouse offers three UNESCO-listed sites and an authentic French cafe culture that remains accessible to all. Try cassoulet before you leave; it represents the region’s traditional comfort food.
Nantes Wows with Creativity and Green Thinking
The quirky French city of Nantes attracts visitors with its edgy creativity and endlessly walkable streets. The city gained recognition through its shipyards and as the birthplace of novelist Jules Verne. Still, today, it offers residents and visitors a combination of futuristic public art installations, riverfront gardens, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Among must-see attractions are Les Machines de l’Île, featuring a 40-foot mechanical elephant in a former shipyard, and the historic Château des Ducs de Bretagne, an anchor for the old city center.
Nantes maintains its position as one of France’s greenest cities through its extensive network of over 100 public parks and numerous bike trails. This city attracts artists, food lovers, and individuals who appreciate towns with a laid-back atmosphere.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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