When you read the word French, what pops up in your mind first, the Eiffel tower or the Louvre? Well, there is much more to France than Champagne and the usual night photos of the famous tower. Sure, Paris is the city of love and exceptionally beautiful at night and the scene of many movies. But there are many hidden gems in France, beautiful landscapes and villages with immense historical value.
Any country is best explored through the eyes of the locals, so that means taking the less travelled path. If you are considering visiting France this year, we review five of the lesser-known parts of the country you must include when planning a trip to France.
When you read the word French, what pops up in your mind first, the Eiffel tower or the Louvre? Well, there is much more to France than Champagne and the usual night photos of the famous tower. Sure, Paris is the city of love and exceptionally beautiful at night and the scene of many movies. But there are many hidden gems in France, beautiful landscapes and villages with immense historical value.
Any country is best explored through the eyes of the locals, so that means taking the less travelled path. If you are considering visiting France this year, we review five of the lesser-known parts of the country you must include when planning a trip to France.
Eze
View of Eze, a small medieval village in Provence, France. Eze is listed under the most beautiful villages of France
Photo by depositphotos.com
This beautiful 13th-century village is a 40-minute drive from the Nice Airport, built on a rocky peak facing the Mediterranean sea. This is truly one of France’s hidden gems. The authentic mediaeval town has small-town charm with modern-day facilities such as the Château de la Chèvre d’Or, a boutique hotel with private hot tubs. From the hotel’s terrace, you can have beautiful views of the sea, where cruise ships and yachts can be seen in the distance. The village of Eze features in the 1955 movie ‘To Catch a Thief’.
Dijon, Bourgogne
Tower of the Notre-Dame of Dijon church in the old town of Dijon, Burgundy, France
Photo by depositphotos.com
The home of Dijon mustard, this city is surrounded by vineyards with vines as old as 600 AD. There are over 3000 independent winemakers in the Burgundy area. This city is for art lovers and food connoisseurs. There are quaint restaurants and cultural sites like the Musee des Beaux-Arts( Fine Arts Museum) and the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.
Avignon, Provence
Avignon Bridge with Popes Palace and Rhone river at sunrise
Photo by depositphotos.com
Avignon was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the mediaeval architecture throughout the city centre. In the 1300s, seven popes ruled the Catholic Church from the papal palace, which still dominates the city centre. There are many museums and cafes scattered throughout the city, making it feel like a treasure hunt. You can set up a base in Avignon and go on to visit nearby Marseille and Nimes, which are nearby.
The Pyrenees
Winding road in Pyrenees Mountains – Lakes Road (Route des Lacs) in Neouvielle Massif.
Photo by depositphotos.com
The Pyrenees are shared by both France and Spain. They are less dramatic but more inviting than the Alps. There is the Parc National de Pyrenees for avid bird watchers or hikers. The trails are marked and well-managed. Snowfall starts around October, so you can visit around November to get in some skiing.
Menton
Colorful old town and beach in Menton on french Riviera in a beautiful summer day, France
Photo by depositphotos.com
If you are a serious foodie, then you already know about the jewel that is Menton. Situated on the French-Italian border, the town is home to the Mirazur restaurant. This restaurant is currently ranked 4th among the 50 best restaurants in the world. There is also Les Sablettes Beach which also boasts a Michelin-star chef. Or you can enjoy a picnic at the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden.
Lastly
France has beautiful quaint villages waiting for you to discover their hidden treasures, art museums, wineries, and restaurants. The pristine coastlines and breathtaking scenery make France a contender on any bucket list.