A country rich in gastronomy, variety of landscapes and cultures, as well as a strong historical past, France boasts thousands of possible and incredible destinations. For you, Bordeaux Secret has selected 50 destinations that have everything you need for a great vacation. These destinations are divided into five categories:
- Historical treasures brings together the wonders of our heritage;
- A Taste of Elsewhere offers destinations that evoke a change of scenery and exoticism;
- For the whole family brings together the best activities for young and old alike;
- Les amoureux de la ville will delight budding city dwellers, while on the other hand,
- En pleine nature focuses on France’s most beautiful natural sites.
Discover the list below, followed by details of each destination! Enjoy your trip!
-
Historical treasures
1. Mont-Saint-Michel, one of a kind in the world
Let’s start with one of our favorite destinations: Mont-Saint-Michel! This rocky islet in Normandy is a must-see in the French landscape, as much for its beauty as for the poetry it exudes… No wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
➕ Did you know that it had just 30 inhabitants in 2017?
2. Rocamadour, more than a cheese
In the Dordogne valley nestles one of the most beautiful villages we’ve ever seen: the medieval town of Rocamadour. Set on a sheer cliff, this “citadel of faith”, as some call it, is packed with historical treasures and welcomes 1.5 million visitors a year!
➕ It’s France’s most visited tourist site after Mont-Saint-Michel, Carcassonne, the Eiffel Tower and the Château de Versailles.
3. Château de Versailles, the life of a king
This home of the great kings has lost none of its magnificence, even centuries later. Its gardens, palace, Hall of Mirrors… all the splendor of times gone by is preserved in this jewel box just a stone’s throw from the capital.
➕ Currently closed due to the epidemic, we’ll keep you informed when it reopens.
4. La Rochelle & Rochefort, the sea air
In the west of the country are two towns with a strong historic character: La Rochelle and Rochefort. The former, famous for its old port, is just as enchanting as its neighbor Rochefortaise (yes, that’s what it’s called!), where you’ll find the famous Hermione frigate!
➕ Walk in the footsteps of Les Demoiselles de Rochefort (Jacques Demy) in the eponymous town!
5. Châteaux de la Loire, architectural wonders
This group of châteaux in the Loire Valley is the perfect excursion for a week (or two!). Chambord, Chenonceau, Angers, Langeais, Loches, Saumur, Tours… a host of unforgettable châteaux await you along the way!
➕ Remember to check the accessibility of the castles according to the progress of deconfinement!
6. Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, exceptional remains
We had to tell you about this former medieval citadel, commonly referred to as the “Mont-Saint-Michel of the Pyrenees”. Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, with its Cathedral and exceptional Gallo-Roman remains, is an unmissable stopover if you’re travelling through the south of France.
➕ Less than 1h30 away, discover the splendid pink city of Toulouse!
7. Aigues-Mortes, a journey through time
There are some incredible spaces, between sky and sea, that seem to emerge from the earth… This is the case of Aigues-Mortes, whose towers and ramparts give exceptional stature to this beautiful coastal town nestled on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
➕ Its proximity to Montpellier and the Camargue (two other places in this top) ensures an unforgettable weekend.
8. Carcassonne, the medieval city
Oyez oyez, brave knights: Carcassonne and its UNESCO-listed medieval city are the must-see trip you’ve been waiting for! Its watchtowers, Gallo-Roman ramparts and Château Comtal give it an unrivalled, timeless charm.
➕ The local specialty is Cassoulet: make sure you’ve got a strong stomach!
9. Pont du Gard, a gift from the Romans
A must-see for anyone with a passion for Roman history: the famous Pont du Gard! Spanning the Gardon river, this aqueduct just outside Nîmes (and just as worth a look) rises to a height of 49m!
➕ Remember to check the bridge’s accessibility due to the epidemic.
10. Grotte de Lascaux, works of art from yesteryear
Like the Pont du Gard, the Grotte de Lascaux offers you a change of scenery from the past: this time, back to the Palaeolithic! Located in the Dordogne, this excursion, unique in the world for the quality of its ancestral drawings, can also be a cool break in the middle of summer…
➕ Its discovery in 1940 completely changed our perception of prehistoric art.
-
A taste of elsewhere
11. Dune du Pilat, warm sand beneath your feet
This stretch of sand, blending into the horizon, could almost make you think you’re in the desert… No, we’re not in the Sahara, but in France, on the imposing Dune du Pilat! Its grandeur and the sea as far as the eye can see could well make you dizzy…
➕ At 106.6m high, it’s the highest dune in Europe!
12. Colmar & Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, Germany just around the corner
Are we in Germany, or rather in the heart of a fairytale village? Colmar, one of whose districts is nicknamed Little Venice, seems to take us out of time, back to the Middle Ages. Its many half-timbered houses give it an atypical beauty.
➕ Don’t miss the sublime Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, just a few kilometers away.
13. Colorado Provençal de Rustrel, a jump into Arizona
That’s what we call these splendid ochre quarries nestled in the heart of Provence, at Rustrel. This explosion of colors (yellow, red, orange, brown) is a marvel for the eyes and a direct return trip to the American Far West…
➕ Maybe you’ll run into a cowboy!
14. Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt, a magical place
Surprising reliefs have been created at Ille-sur-Têt: these fairy chimneys of fragile beauty seem to come straight from an Oriental landscape. And yet, we are in the south of France, in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales.
➕ These sedimentary rocks are four million years old.
15. Basque country, endless beaches
Take a trip to Spain while staying in France? It’s possible if you choose the Basque Country as your summer vacation destination! Start your journey in Biarritz, with its magnificent views over the Bay of Biscay, then continue on to Saint-Jean-de-Luz!
➕ In Saint-Jean-de-Luz, some bilingual schools teach Castilian.
16. Corsica, between sea and mountains
The calanques of Piana, the Scandola reserve, Ratino Island… Corsica is a land of wonders. No wonder it’s nicknamed the “Isle of Beauty”! Its varied landscapes, particularly suited to hiking, offer a splendid natural change of scenery.
➕O n May 19, 2020, Corsica announced the reopening of almost all its beaches.
17. Little Canada, trees of a thousand colors
Break out the maple syrup: this excursion to Canada – did we mean the heart of the Jura? – You’ll think you’re on the other side of the Atlantic! Lac Genin and its site, known as “Little Canada”, are teeming with grandiose landscapes and opportunities for hiking.
➕ Just 1h10 away by car, visit the magnificent capital of the Gauls: Lyon! (towards the end of this top)
18. Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval, architecture with a change of scenery
A Cambodian temple? No, it’s the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval, built by the letter carrier of the same name in the Drôme region between 1879 and 1912. Its mythological and religious inspirations give it a unique blend!
➕ A film released in 2018 (starring Laetitia Casta) tells the story of this ambitious builder.
19. Channel Islands, an air of England
Did you know that an archipelago of 14 Franco-British islands lies in the English Channel in northern France? Jersey and Guernsey are a guaranteed change of scenery for lovers of the land of Big Ben. Would you like to try some delicious scones?
➕ Mid-April 2020, ferry links were suspended between France and the Channel Islands. We’ll keep you posted on their progress.
-
For all the family
20. Disneyland Paris, your childhood dreams come to life
Haven’t you had your fill of “Libérée, Délivrée” yet? Disneyland Paris is the place to be for an exceptional vacation with the whole family. Thanks to its many attractions and theme parks, you’re sure to be filled with stars!
➕ Deconfinement: stay tuned for the park’s reopening date very soon!
21. Puy du Fou, a leap into history
Voted best park in the world, the Puy du Fou, located in Vendée, offers a multitude of dazzling activities and shows for the whole family. Would you prefer to embark on a Viking ship, or go back in time to the days of the knights?
➕ Le Puy du Fou will reopen its doors to the public from June 11, 2020.
22. Brittany (Rennes, Brest…), breathtaking landscapes
There are regions of France where the cultural offer and variety of landscapes are so rich that they become the preferred destination for young and old alike. Such is the case of Brittany, whose splendid towns (Rennes, Brest, Quimper, Belle-Île-en-Mer), beaches and storied past enchant us on every trip…
➕ Discover the charming town of Saint-Malo, further down in this top!
23. Normandy (Honfleur, Rouen…), places steeped in history
If you’re passing through Brittany, you can’t miss Normandy: with its thousand facets and towns full of history, this region is sure to amaze you with its exceptional landscapes. Beaches, gentle villages of half-timbered houses, grandiose religious buildings… Normandy is a destination that will leave you with magnificent memories.
➕ Don’t miss Mont-Saint-Michel and the cliffs of Étretat (which feature in this top).
24. Île d’Oléron & Île de Ré, a peaceful moment at your fingertips
Close to La Rochelle, the islands of Oléron and Ré are natural wonders within easy driving distance. On the Île de Ré, introduce your youngest visitors to a page of history at the magnificent Fort La Prée (reopening June 3). On Île d’Oléron, climb up to the Chassiron lighthouse for an unforgettable panorama.
➕ Will you be able to see Fort Boyard, home of the TV game of the same name?
25. Futuroscope, a step into the future
Just outside Poitiers (and not far from Puy du Fou) lies the exceptional Futuroscope park. With 40 science- and technology-themed attractions, explore the futuristic and alternative worlds of this park, the only one of its kind in France!
➕ A new attraction (Objectif Mars) is due to open when the park reopens (as yet unconfirmed).
26. Parc Astérix, a shot of magic potion
By Toutatis! Do we still need to introduce the unique park of this comic book hero famous for his moustache, his companion Obelix and his dog Dogmatix? Just 40 minutes from Paris, Parc Astérix offers a wide range of attractions for all ages.
➕ As of May 21, 2020, the park has yet to confirm its reopening date.
-
City lovers
27. Lille, the beauty of the North
The Place Charles-de-Gaulle, the Vieille Bourse, the Palais des Beaux-Arts… Lille is like a postcard around every corner: a clever blend of modernity and old-world architecture that gives this northern city its authentic charm.
➕ Its central district, Vieux-Lille, is simply unmissable.
28. Bordeaux, the country’s finest wines
The wine capital doesn’t just have this trump card up its sleeve: the magnificent Place des Quinconces (Europe’s largest square!), the shopping street Sainte-Catherine, the famous Cité du Vin and its new Bassins de Lumières make it a city full of appeal.
➕ To find out more about Bordeaux, stay tuned to Bordeaux Secret!
29. Marseille, good cheer around every corner
Get out the pastis and the cochonnet, it’s petanque time! A delightful blend of tradition (the Panier, the Old Port) and innovation (the Mucem), Marseille was voted European Capital of Culture in 2013. Don’t miss the Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde!
➕ Interested in Marseille? Visit Marseille Secrète!
30. Paris, the city of light that awakens your creativity
How could we not include the magnificent City of Light in this top list? Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, is a sure bet for any adventurer looking to connect with quintessential gastronomy, architecture and culture. An absolute must.
➕ The Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Coeur, museums… prepare your trip with Paris Secret!
31. Lyon, from gastronomy to culture
The capital of gastronomy, Lyon is a multi-faceted city: witness its labyrinthine traboules! Its Terreaux and Bellecoursquares, its many frescoes and its museums (notably the Confluences) make it a city not to be missed.
➕ In Lyon, try out several cuisines in one space with Food Traboule and Lyon Secret!
32. Toulouse, the pink city
We love Toulouse so much: its gentle way of life, its gastronomy, its Place du Capitole, its Saint-Sernin basilica, its gardens and its innovative Cité de l’Espace… Here, we enjoy the sunshine while eating a cassoulet on a terrace! The metro even speaks Occitan!
➕ The pink city is full of secrets: discover them on Toulouse Secret.
33. Côte d’Azur (Nice, Cannes, the Calanques…), Mediterranean beauty
Nice, Cannes, Marseille, Saint-Tropez, Toulon, Île de Porquerolles… wonders grow like palm trees along the French Riviera! Whether you want to star on the Croisette or daydream in the calanques of Cassis, above all: enjoy the sun!
➕ The expression “Côte d’Azur” is due to the writer Stéphen Liégeard, who came from… the Côte-d’Or!
34. Strasbourg, an air of the Netherlands
Despite the fact that its famous Christmas market doesn’t take place in summer (which is logical), Strasbourg retains an exceptional charm all year round: its picturesque district, nicknamed “Petite France”, with its half-timbered houses, is an Instagrammer’s dream!
➕ Its unmissable Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most beautiful in France.
35. Nantes & Trentemoult, a stroll for kings
While the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is probably the must-see monument in Nantes, don’t hesitate to venture out of the Reine des Magnolias (yes, that’s one of its nicknames) to discover the magnificent village of colorful houses in Trentemoult!
➕ Île de Versailles (in Nantes) boasts a pretty Japanese garden.
36. Annecy, between the picturesque and the grandiose
It’s not just Colmar that’s known as France’s Little Venice: Annecy also has this nickname! So which town would suit it best? Annecy, at the gateway to the Alps, is well known for its magnificent lake, winding canals and charming pastel-colored houses.
➕ Take advantage of being in Haute-Savoie to discover Savoyard fondue!
37. Montpellier, between city and nature
Situated at the gateway to the sea, the city of Montpellier may prove a charming option if you’re looking for a short, economical destination with the beach as your goal! Don’t forget to visit the pretty Place de la Comédie and the Musée Fabre!
➕ A few kilometers to the west, the town of Sète is well worth a stop during your trip!
38. Perpignan, a breath of Spain
Located very close to Spain, Perpignan and its strong Catalan influence still bear witness to its past as the former capital of the Kingdom of Majorca. The Palais des Rois de Majorque is well worth a visit, not least for its grandeur.
➕ Collioure (and its Château Royal) is surely one of the most beautiful towns to see in the area.
39. Saint-Malo, an air of Brittany
If we had to choose one of the most typical towns in Brittany (higher up in this top), we’d probably pick Saint-Malo. This port city on the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel boasts a unique historical heritage, including an island fort dating back to 1689!
➕ As of May 22, 2020, the wearing of masks is made compulsory in Saint-Malo, just as it is at Mont-Saint-Michel.
-
In the heart of nature
40. Étretat cliffs, the breathtaking countryside
This is probably the first image that comes to mind when we think of Normandy (higher up in this top): the cliffs of Étretat. Comprising three cliffs (Aval, Amont and Manneporte), these majestic flint arches are a must-see.
➕ The Aval cliff, the highest of the three, rises to a height of 80m!
41. The Alps, the majesty of mountains
The Alps aren’t just one part of France, they’re a multitude of destinations. Whether you’re an adventurer (Mont-Blanc), a skier (Chamonix, Val-d’Isère, Huez) or a nature lover (Lac du Bourget, Lac d’Allos), the Alps are the breath of fresh air we all need…
➕ In the Mercantour, Lac d’Allos, perched at an altitude of 2230m, is the highest lake in Europe!
42. Provence, seeing life in purple
We love Provence: its gentle way of life, the song of the cicadas, lavender fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Provence is an ideal destination for those wishing to combine history (Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence...), nature and the sea (plateau de Valensole, Martigues, La Ciotat…).
➕ Provence is a land of art: don’t miss Saint-Paul-de-Vence, village of artists!
43. Auvergne volcanoes, a natural wonder
Did you know that the Auvergne region is home to volcanoes (most of them extinct, don’t worry) that are 100,000 years old? Stretching from the UNESCO-listed Chaîne des Puys in the north to the Aubrac plateau in the south, this exceptional natural spectacle is a great hiking destination.
➕ Puy de Sancy, Puy de Dôme and Puy de Vichatel are among the best known.
44. Marais Poitevin, a green paradise
If you want to see the Puy du Fou shows (see above) this summer, extend your trip with an excursion to the Marais Poitevin! This listed site, sometimes nicknamed “Green Venice”, abounds in charming natural vistas and exudes an atypical poetry.
➕ The Marais Poitevin can be visited by boat! Check out the available piers!
45. Gorges du Verdon, turquoise water between cliffs
At the heart of the Verdon National Park, the Gorges du Verdon offer a natural spectacle of outstanding beauty. While most of the viewpoints are accessible by footpath, it’s on the water that the magic happens: visit this typical canyon by canoe!
➕ There are medieval villages in the Verdon, including Rougon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
46. Camargue, the temple of pink flamingos
On the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the Camargue region is a fascinating natural site. The Giraud salt marsh and its rosy hues, Aigues-Mortes and its past (see above), the Pont de Gau ornithological park with its pink flamingos… the spectacle is beautiful and surprising.
➕ The only region in France to host pink flamingos naturally, the Camargue is a paradise for horses and migratory birds.
47. Bassin d’Arcachon, a change of scenery right next door
The Bassin d’Arcachon, which borders the Dune du Pilat (at the start of this ranking), boasts lagoons of exceptional beauty. Located in the Gascony moors, the Bassin d’Arcachon is the ideal destination for those in need of a breath of fresh air away from the city.
➕ Visit the cabanes tchanquées on Île aux Oiseaux aboard a boat!
48. Canal du Midi, pure calm
Would you like to cruise peacefully along one of France’s most beautiful canals, with your feet in the air and on board a boat? The Canal du Midi, which stretches from Toulouse (in this ranking) to the Mediterranean Sea, will take you on a journey along its banks and historic villages.
➕ Have fun watching the locks go by: there are 63 on the whole canal!
49. Gorges du Tarn & Millau Viaduct, an architectural marvel
Fancy a vacation in Aveyron? Start at the pretty village of Sévérac-le-Château, cross the sublime Gorges du Tarn (including the prestigious Détroits du Tarn site), and end at the charming town of Millau and its impressive viaduct.
➕ The Millau viaduct (which has a museum) is almost 2.5km long and 270m high!
50. Aix-les-Bains, between city and mountain
Aix-les-Bains often features in rankings of towns with the best quality of life in France. So it’s no surprise that we’ve chosen this magnificent spa resort on the shores of Lac du Bourget in Savoie to round off our top ten !
➕ Don’t miss the Roman remains of the Temple of Diana!
Any other destinations in France you’d like to share with us? Do so on our Facebook page or Instagram using the hashtag #bordeauxsecret!
Photo montage: Lyon Secret.