The 15 best cities to visit in France

France is a country steeped in history, culture, and beauty. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the stunning beaches of the French Riviera, there is something for everyone in this diverse and fascinating country. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, France has many beautiful cities that promise to captivate you.

There are many reasons why you should visit multiple French cities during your trip. French cities offer a rich cultural heritage with a wealth of historical landmarks, monuments, and museums. From the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris to the Renaissance architecture of Lyon, there is a fascinating story behind every corner.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the 15 best cities to visit in France, highlighting their unique features, attractions, and cultural significance. So, if you're planning a trip to France, read about which cities should be on your itinerary.

1. Paris

You can't visit France and skip its main attraction: The capital city of Paris. One of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, Paris is known for its iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum.

In addition to its famous landmarks, Paris is also a city of fashion, food, and culture. The city is renowned for its haute fashion houses, such as Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent, and its gourmet cuisine, including escargot, foie gras, and croissants. Paris is also home to numerous world-class museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a hub for art lovers.

The city is known for its beautiful architecture, romantic atmosphere, and vibrant café culture. Stroll down the Champs-Elysées, relax in one of the city's many parks, or take a cruise down the Seine River to fully experience the magic of Paris. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Paris has something for everyone.

Remember to visit the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO world heritage site located about 20 kilometers southwest of Paris. It is a magnificent palace built in the 17th century as a residence for the French monarchy and is now one of France's most famous tourist attractions.

2. Marseille

Then you need to visit the oldest city in France: Marseille, founded in 600 BC by the Greeks. Marseille has a rich history and culture that has shaped the city over the centuries, and it is also the second-largest city in France.

It is a major port city on the Mediterranean coast and is known for its diverse culture, history, and architecture, including the famous Notre Dame de la Garde church.

3. Nice

Nice is a coastal city in the southeast of France, known for its scenic beauty and mild climate. It is a popular tourist destination with its sandy beaches, picturesque Old Town, and vibrant culture.

4. Lyon

Lyon, the third largest city in France, is located in the east-central part of France. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and gastronomic scene. The city is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic district of Vieux Lyon.

The city also houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon. It is one of the largest fine arts museums in France and is home to a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from a wide range of periods and styles, including classical, modern, and contemporary art.

5. Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on its own. Located in southwestern France, the city is known for its wine-making heritage and stunning architecture. It is a popular tourist destination with its historic center, charming wine châteaux, and beautiful landscapes.

While exploring the city, make sure you indulge in a wine-tasting tour and walk along the scenic riverfront promenade, which is lined with beautiful trees and benches and offers stunning views of the city and the Gironde Estuary.

6. Toulouse

The historic city of Toulouse is located in southern France and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and academic significance. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in France.

Toulouse is often referred to as the "Pink City" because of the warm, pinkish hue of the local brick used in many of its buildings, particularly in the city's historic center.

7. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, near the border with Germany. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage, including the famous Notre Dame Cathedral and the European Parliament.

The historic quarter of the city, La Petite France, is a must-visit. It is known for its picturesque half-timbered houses and charming canals that run through the neighborhood, making it one of the city's most scenic and photogenic areas. The name "La Petite France" refers to the neighborhood's former function as the home of the city's tanners, dyers, and fishers, who lived and worked along the banks of the Ill River.

La Petite France is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Strasbourg, as it provides a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage and is considered one of the city's most beautiful and authentic areas.

8. Nantes

Nantes is a city in western France known for its maritime history and cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination with its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and vibrant arts scene.

9. Montpellier

Montpellier is located in southern France, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and academic significance. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, a large public square in the city's center.

10. Lille

Lille is a city in northern France known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful architecture, charming Old Town, and thriving arts scene.

11. Rennes

Rennes is a city in northwestern France known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and academic significance. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Parlement de Bretagne, a historic building that houses the regional parliament of Brittany.

12. Grenoble

Grenoble is located in southeastern France, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful mountain scenery, charming Old Town, and vibrant arts scene.

13. Rouen

Rouen is located in northwestern France, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and religious significance. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Gros-Horloge, a large astronomical clock located in the city's center.

14. Dijon

Dijon is a city in eastern France known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and gastronomic scene. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy, a historic building that serves as a museum and cultural center. Dijon is also known for its famous mustard, produced using traditional methods and a staple ingredient in many local dishes.

15. Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city in eastern France known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural significance. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Cité du Design, a museum dedicated to design and innovation. Saint-Etienne is also known for its vibrant arts scene, including numerous galleries and theaters.

Do you need a visa to travel to France?

The requirement to travel to France depends on several factors, including your country of origin, the purpose of your trip, and the length of your stay. Visitors from certain countries may be eligible for visa-free travel, while others need to obtain a Schengen visa.

Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not need a visa to travel to France, as they are part of the Schengen Area.

Nationals of countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within 180 days.

However, citizens of other countries, such as India, China, and South Africa, among others, will need to obtain a Schengen visa to enter France.

Read our guide to the France Schengen Visa for the most up-to-date information and requirements for obtaining a visa to travel to France and our ultimate guide to France for more information about the country and what to expect during your stay.