7 French Cities I’d Visit Again In A Heartbeat—And 3 I’d Recommend Skipping

France isn’t just one story—it’s a thousand little ones told in cobblestone alleys, bustling cafés, and sun-soaked squares. As I roamed from coastal villages to grand metropolises, I found cities that felt like a warm embrace… and others that didn’t quite live up to their postcard promise.

Some spots I could wander endlessly with a baguette in hand and a smile on my face. Others? Well, let’s just say once was enough.

Curious which French cities truly deserve a spot on your itinerary—and which ones are more “meh” than magnifique? Let’s explore the hits and misses from my French escape.

1. Lyon: The Gastronomic Paradise That Stole My Heart

Vieux Lyon’s winding alleys led me straight to foodie heaven — cozy bouchons serving comforting Lyonnaise classics that I’m still dreaming about.

The city sits majestically at the confluence of two rivers, creating stunning views from Fourvière Hill. What impressed me most was how Lyon balances its rich history with modern innovation.

If you’re a foodie, this is your heaven. Between the outdoor markets, cooking classes, and restaurants ranging from Michelin-starred establishments to family-run bistros, Lyon offers unforgettable culinary adventures without the Parisian price tag.

2. Annecy: The Alpine Gem With Fairy Tale Canals

Nestled against the French Alps, Annecy feels like stepping into a storybook. Crystal-clear canals wind through the old town, earning it the nickname ‘Venice of the Alps’ – though I found it even more charming than its Italian counterpart.

The turquoise Lake Annecy provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. During summer, I rented a paddleboat and spent hours exploring the cleanest lake in Europe, surrounded by mountain views that took my breath away.

Medieval buildings painted in pastel colors line the canals, creating perfect photo opportunities at every turn. This magical combination of alpine scenery, pristine waters, and preserved architecture makes Annecy a place I dream about revisiting.

3. Bordeaux: Wine Paradise With Urban Elegance

Bordeaux surprised me with its perfect blend of sophistication and approachability. The city’s uniform limestone architecture gives it a cohesive beauty that’s rare in urban centers, with the stunning Water Mirror reflecting the Place de la Bourse in a magical display.

Wine lovers rejoice! I spent delightful days exploring vineyards just outside the city. The newly opened Cité du Vin museum offered an interactive deep-dive into wine culture that even non-drinkers would enjoy.

Beyond wine, Bordeaux charmed me with its walkable streets, thriving food scene, and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike Paris’s hustle, people here seemed to savor life at a gentler pace – exactly the vibe I seek when traveling.

4. Strasbourg: Where France and Germany Create Magic

With its rich Franco-German roots, Strasbourg offers a cultural harmony that feels both seamless and special, especially in the whimsical beauty of La Petite France.

Christmas transforms this already magical city into something truly spectacular. When I visited during December, the markets filled the air with spiced wine aromas and twinkling lights created an atmosphere I’ll never forget.

The imposing Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline with its single spire reaching toward heaven. Inside, the astronomical clock puts on a delightful show at noon. Between the distinctive cuisine, architectural wonders, and bicycling along the Rhine, Strasbourg offers experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere in France.

5. Nice: The Sun-Drenched Jewel of the French Riviera

I came to Nice expecting sand, but found something better — smooth sun-warmed stones and impossibly clear turquoise waters that took my breath away.

Climbing Castle Hill rewarded me with panoramic views that explained why artists like Matisse and Chagall found endless inspiration here. The colors of Nice – from the blue sea to the terracotta rooftops – create a visual feast unlike anywhere else.

Wandering through the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, I discovered vibrant markets, socca (chickpea pancake) vendors, and gelato that rivals Italy’s best. The relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle combined with French sophistication makes Nice worth multiple visits.

6. Aix-en-Provence: Sunshine-Soaked Streets With Artistic Soul

Walking through Aix-en-Provence feels like stepping into a painting, with sunlight casting a soft glow over every plane tree-lined boulevard.

Fountain-hopping became my favorite activity – Aix boasts over 40 beautiful fountains scattered throughout its winding streets. Market days transformed the city into a sensory overload of colors, scents, and tastes, with lavender, olives, and fragrant herbs taking center stage.

The laid-back café culture encouraged me to slow down and savor life. Sipping pastis at an outdoor table on Cours Mirabeau while watching the world pass by remains one of my most cherished travel memories.

7. Toulouse: The Pink City That Radiates Warmth

Toulouse charms instantly with its blush-colored architecture, especially at golden hour — a southern French city with a hint of Spanish soul.

Students bring youthful energy to the historic streets, creating a vibrant atmosphere I found infectious. The city’s aerospace heritage adds a fascinating dimension – touring Airbus facilities gave me a newfound appreciation for aviation innovation.

Canal du Midi offered peaceful walks away from urban bustle. What truly won me over was Toulouse’s food scene – cassoulet, sausages, and violet-flavored treats satisfied my culinary curiosity. The friendly locals, reasonable prices, and lack of tourist crowds make this underrated city a place I’d happily revisit.

8. Marseille: Beautiful But Rough Around the Edges

I wanted to love Marseille — the calanques and seaside vistas were stunning, and the Old Port pulsed with life, yet something about the experience felt unfinished.

However, I found significant parts of the city felt neglected and unwelcoming. Walking just a few blocks from tourist areas sometimes led to uncomfortable situations and visible social problems that dampened my experience.

The famous bouillabaisse didn’t quite live up to its reputation or price tag. While I appreciate Marseille’s multicultural character and authentic grit, the combination of safety concerns, cleanliness issues, and tourist-trap pricing means I’d recommend day trips to the calanques instead of basing your stay in France’s second-largest city.

9. Dijon: Mustard Fame That Overshadows a Bland Experience

Dijon disappointed me despite its famous mustard and rich history. The well-preserved medieval center certainly has architectural merit, but something about the city’s atmosphere felt strangely sterile compared to other French destinations.

Following the owl trail (a tourist path marked by small owl symbols) quickly became tedious rather than engaging. Many attractions closed unexpectedly or kept limited hours, leading to frustration when planning my visit.

The dining scene underwhelmed me considering Burgundy’s culinary reputation. While I wouldn’t call Dijon terrible, it simply didn’t offer the magic I found elsewhere in France. Your travel time is precious – I’d recommend exploring the Burgundy countryside and its vineyards instead of lingering in Dijon itself.

10. Calais: Ferry Port That Fails to Inspire

My short stop in Calais confirmed what many say — it’s a place to pass through, not linger, with little to hold your attention once the ferry departs.

The town center feels neglected, with empty storefronts and limited dining options beyond fast food. Even Rodin’s famous sculpture ‘The Burghers of Calais’ couldn’t elevate my experience of this industrial port town.

If you’re taking the ferry or Eurotunnel, you’ll likely pass through Calais – but I wouldn’t recommend allocating precious vacation time here. Instead, consider nearby coastal towns like Boulogne-sur-Mer or venture inland to Lille for a more rewarding northern French experience that combines history, culture, and gastronomy.