7 French Cities I Would Choose Over Paris & 2 Bonus Picks Will Happily Return To
Paris may steal the spotlight, but it’s far from the only place in France worth your time. Step outside the capital, and you’ll find cities that serve up just as much charm, culture, and incredible food—often with fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe.
After years of exploring every corner of the country, I’ve found destinations that feel more personal, more affordable, and in many ways, more rewarding. These are the places I keep coming back to—and a few I’d pick over Paris without hesitation.
1. Strasbourg
Fairy-tale charm oozes from every corner of this border city where cultures blend seamlessly. Strasbourg’s historic center feels like stepping into a storybook with its canals winding through neighborhoods of colorful half-timbered houses.
The magnificent cathedral towers over everything, while the European Parliament adds modern significance. German pretzels and French wine coexist perfectly here, reflecting the unique cultural fusion.
2. Bordeaux
Golden buildings glow in the sunset along the Garonne River in this sophisticated yet approachable city. Bordeaux underwent a remarkable transformation from sleepy wine town to vibrant cultural hub over the past decade.
World-class vineyards surround the elegant city center, where neoclassical architecture creates a harmonious urban landscape. The mirroir d’eau (water mirror) reflects the Place de la Bourse in a magical display that captures everyone’s imagination.
3. Aix-En-Provence
Sun-drenched squares filled with café tables invite you to linger over espresso while watching the world go by. Aix-en-Provence captures the essence of southern French living with its golden light that attracted painters like Cézanne.
Plane trees line grand boulevards where fountains bubble on nearly every corner. The markets burst with lavender, olives, and fragrant herbs, creating a sensory experience that epitomizes Provençal charm.
4. Annecy
Crystal-clear waters reflect snow-capped Alps in this breathtaking alpine jewel. Annecy’s medieval core sits on a network of canals that have earned it the nickname “Venice of the Alps.”
Swans glide past flower-adorned bridges connecting cobblestone streets. The pristine lake offers swimming in summer and spectacular hiking trails around its perimeter, making this mountain paradise perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
5. Toulouse
Rosy-hued buildings give this vibrant southern city its nickname “La Ville Rose.” Toulouse buzzes with energy from its large student population and aerospace industry, creating an exciting blend of historic charm and innovation.
Bustling plazas fill with locals enjoying cassoulet and wine late into the evening. The Garonne River provides a beautiful backdrop for strolling, while the space museum celebrates the city’s role in aviation history.
6. Lille
Flemish influences create a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in France. Lille surprises visitors with its welcoming locals and distinctive architectural style featuring ornate gables and decorative facades.
Just 90 minutes from Paris by train, this northern gem offers incredible art museums housing works by Rubens and Goya. The massive annual flea market (Braderie de Lille) transforms the city each September into Europe’s biggest treasure hunt.
7. Nantes
Mechanical elephants spray water on delighted onlookers in this playfully creative city. Nantes reinvented itself through imagination, transforming former shipyards into artistic playgrounds featuring giant steampunk creatures that actually move.
The medieval castle contrasts with cutting-edge art installations scattered throughout green spaces. Eco-friendly trams glide through streets lined with hip cafés and boutiques, making this Loire Valley city a model for sustainable urban renewal.
8. Colmar
Straight from the pages of a fairy tale, this enchanting town captivates with its impossibly picturesque streets. Colmar’s well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings are painted in pastels that reflect in the gentle canals of “Little Venice.”
Flower boxes overflow from window sills along narrow lanes that seem designed for Instagram. The surrounding Alsatian wine route offers opportunities to sample world-class Rieslings and Gewürztraminers in villages equally charming.