Yes, we know- officially, Paris is the city of light and love, but outside of this bustling hub, when you’re planning a trip to France, you simply can’t miss the charming and picturesque small towns in France that make you feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale. Join us as we explore this side of romantic France. These towns, chosen by Routeperfect travelers, are sure to have you gazing at the sunset, sipping champagne, and singing La Vie en Rose!
Popular itinerary in France:
Riquewihr
Located in the Alsace region, the charming little medieval town of Riquewihr boasts lovely Renaissance wooden framed houses and narrow cobbled streets. Stroll along the magical, colorful houses and the open plazas with vibrant flowers, and you will feel like you’re walking through a postcard of a traditional French village!
Our tip: Explore the Alsace Wine Route, visit the different vineyards along the countryside, and sample some delicious local wine.
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Colmar
Picture-perfect Colmar, one of the well-known small towns in France, is the self-proclaimed capital of the Alsace Wine Region and should be high on your bucket list. This small town is magical and colorful, complete with beautiful canals and lush blossoms. You can explore this storybook town in a small boat and stop for lunch at the tiny cafes, while admiring the narrow streets and picturesque small churches.
Our tip: Little Venice is a lovely canal surrounded by waterfront houses, cozy little restaurants, and flowers that bloom in bright purple and fuchsia.
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Annecy
With a backdrop of the snowy Alps, this majestic old town with quaint pastel houses and a pure turquoise lake is romantic France at its best. It has everything you need for an enchanted getaway!
Our tip: Visit Chateau d’Annecy. This medieval castle-turned-museum overlooks the Annecy Old Town that was once home to the Counts of Geneva.
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Troyes
Located on the Seine River in the Champagne region, Troyes has an old world feeling with its half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and medieval churches.
Our tip: If you’re looking for authentic local cuisine, make sure you try some andouillette, a renowned delicacy of coarse-grained sausage.
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St. Malo
As a walled port town, St. Malo combines the beauty of the past with the vibrant energy of the sea. This little town in France will make you feel wild and adventurous as its history echoes from the small houses and cobbled alleyways.
Our tip: Fall in love with the food in St. Malo! You’ll find fresh seafood, oysters, and scallops- all fresh and delicious. Bon Appetite!
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Sarlat la Caneda
This lively market town boasts some beautiful mansions and lovely streets and is often used as a setting for period movies. Have some foie gras and delicious cheese at the local food market.
Our tip: Check out the truffle market near Sainte Marie Church every Saturday.
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Carcassonne
This is an impressive fortified town that you won’t want to miss. Among the best known of the small towns in France, Carcassonne sits on top of a wooded hill and will make you feel like you’re royalty living in a medieval Gothic castle.
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Gordes
This charming village is one of the most beautiful small towns in France! The breathtaking scenery of Gordes inspired many artists and actors to call this place home. The tall, white houses that slope down the mountainside and the narrow cobbled streets are just some of the beautiful features that characterizes this town.
Our tip: You simply must visit the lavender field in front of Senanque Abbey. The amazing field of vibrant purple and sweet-scented flowers in bloom will create a memorable experience (and a great photo op!)
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Eze
If you’re looking for romantic France, don’t miss Eze in the spring. Sitting impressively high above sea level overlooking the glistening Mediterranean, this village is as historic as it is charming. Eze is located on the French Riviera, not far from Nice, but it maintains a more authentic, quaint atmosphere. You can spend the day strolling in the maze of little streets, admiring the pink Bougainvillea and the view of the clear, blue ocean.
Our tip: Visit Le Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a breathtaking exotic garden sitting atop the hill in Eze. The views are spectacular, and the exotic plants and works of art in the gardens are well worth the visit.
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Bonaficio
This spectacular Mediterranean port town sits firmly on dramatic cliffs that offer stunning views of the natural port. Located on the island of Corsica, Bonaficio is one of the towns in France where the perfect beaches and charming cafes combine French beauty with the Italian vibe.
Our tip: Walk through the old town and visit the beautiful sandy bays in the area.
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Do you have any other small towns in France to recommend? Others that stand out when you think of romantic France?
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