France, officially the French Republic or the French State, is a sovereign state comprising territory in western Europe.  The citizens of France are called the French. France spans 643,801 square kilometres (248,573 sq mi) and has an estimated population of 66.1 million. It is a semi-presidential republic with the capital in Paris, the country’s largest city and main cultural and commercial centre. Other urban centers include Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Nice, Toulouse and Bordeaux.  the largest metropolitan area of 34.13 million people as of 2013 (nearly a third of the population). The whole of France is worth a visit, but these are the best places to visit in France. [Tie your most exciting place with your services and/or products]

France has a lot of beautiful places to visit. Some are popular tourist attractions while others remain hidden gems that are rarely discovered. In case you’re planning a trip, here is a list of the best places to visit in France.

France Best Places To Visit

France Tourism is booming. According to the latest report, tourism in France has increased by 51.4% from 2009 to 2012 and helped the country restore its balance of accounts which was negative before tourism began to grow. Travel is an exciting activity. People want to venture and learn about new places. France has a lot to offer to the tourists. It contains the best destinations that will make sure your trip is enjoyable and eventful.

Best Places to Visit in France

France is home to some of the most beautiful cities, towns and countrysides on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you’ll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year’s ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France. (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Check with the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

Read Best Vacations Methodology »

SUMMARY

More

• View 54 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoParis#1 in Best Places to Visit in FranceParis is one of the world’s best places to visit, so it’s no surprise it tops this list. France’s capital city attracts visitors year-round with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, incredible architecture and unparalleled dining and shopping scenes. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you’re looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• Belongs on List?YesNoLoire Valley#2 in Best Places to Visit in FranceFor a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley’s laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans, Tours and Saumur.
• View 30 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoMarseille#3 in Best Places to Visit in FranceSince shedding its seedy reputation, France’s oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. The former European Capital of Culture has a number sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Cathédrale de la Major. When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and secluded beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée (Mucem). Its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO

• View 39 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoNice#4 in Best Places to Visit in FranceGlamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city’s pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. You’ll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October, the area’s shoulder seasons. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 35 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoNormandy#5 in Best Places to Visit in FranceDespite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty. Renowned impressionist Claude Monet certainly thought so. The artist was inspired by Normandy’s landscapes, so much so that he created some of his most famous paintings here. Etretat’s white cliffs are a great place to take in the area’s natural scenery. Visitors can also admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen or see some of the remnants of Normandy’s heavy history at the D-Day Beaches and La Tapisserie de Bayeux. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 24 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoBurgundy#6 in Best Places to Visit in FranceAnother popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. And, of course, you can’t leave without trying the region’s vino, which mainly uses the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• Belongs on List?YesNoBordeaux#7 in Best Places to Visit in FranceThis wine-growing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With more than 100,000 vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint-Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public’s pathways and flora.