France stretches from the English Channel and the North Sea in the north to the Mediterranean in the south, from the Rhine River in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The country has a population of 65 million and welcomes more than 82 million tourists every year. When we think of France, we think of Paris, but France is much more than that. The country has 427 cities, and 32 different places are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The second largest economy in Europe after Germany, France is a place that deserves to be explored and experienced with its rich history, magnificent architecture and cuisine. Before you start your trip to France, be sure to check out our list of “Places to Visit in France”.
- Marseille
Marseille, one of the oldest cities in Europe, is located in the southeast of France and has a splendid history. The city offers a magnificent view of the medieval and ancient Roman architecture that you will encounter frequently. Marseille, an old port city, is sunny for almost 300 days. If you go to Marseille, don’t forget to visit the Cathedrale de la Major. Also, it is worth reminding that the crime rate is a bit high in the city. We recommend you to be careful with your valuable belongings.
- Toulon
Toulon, located on the Mediterranean coast of France, is the third largest city in the region. The city has a significant role in wine-making and fishing. Toulon, a major base for the French navy, was also used by the Ottoman navy in the past. The city has a splendid harbor line and a mild climate.
- Nantes
Nantes, a French city that is known as the Western France Metropolis, has the title of the European Green Capital. Although it looks like a small town, it has a serious urbanization process. You can sit in the charming cafes that are scattered among the streets, or you can visit the botanical garden.
- Paris
Paris, which attracts 45 million visitors every year, is among the most popular cities in France. There are dozens of places to visit that are both visually appealing and enjoyable to explore, such as the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacre Coeur Basilica, the Champs-Elysees, the Pompidou Center, the Pantheon, the Sainte Chapelle, and the Orsay Museum. If you have been to France and have some time to spare, you can spend 3-4 days in Paris. In addition to these historical and beautiful places, we strongly recommend you to visit Disneyland.
- Lille
Lille is a city that lies on the edge of Belgium, renowned for its Flemish architectural features and belfries. The Lille Cathedral, the Hospice Comtesse Museum, and the Palais des Beaux – Arts de Lille are some of the attractions that you should not miss in Lille.
- Arles
Arles is a city that is situated in the south of France and that will transport you to the medieval times. Arles is well-known for its connection to Van Gogh, who spent some time there. If you have the chance to go to Arles, you must not miss the Saint Trophime Church, which is in the heart of the city.
- Bordeaux
Bordeaux has a history that goes back to the 300s BC. Celtic tribes chose this area as their settlement. That is why it is called ‘The City of the Celts’. One of the must-see places in Bordeaux is the Miroir d’eau. Besides that, the Place de la Bourse, the Grand Theatre of Bordeaux, and the Bordeaux Cathedral are also worth visiting. Moreover, you should try the Bordeaux cuisine, which has unique flavors and is famous for its Bordeaux wines.
- Strasbourgh
If you are going to Strasbourg, it has to be during Christmas time. Because the streets will enchant you with their splendid view. Besides that, Strasbourg is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and has a magnificent architecture. Among the dozens of places to see, we strongly recommend you to see the gothic cathedral and the astronomical clock.
- Lyon
Lyon is a city that is located in the Rhone-Alpes region, between Marseille and Paris. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and has a narrow-streeted area that offers a superb taste. That is why we advise you to experience the culinary culture of Lyon. In addition, Vieuz Lyon, Notre-Dame de Fourviere Basilica, Musee des Beaux Arts de Lyon are also among the places that you have to visit.
