Breathtaking Historic Towns and Villages in France

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The landscape of France is dotted with hundreds of charming old villages spread out throughout the country at regular intervals. We have selected 10 tiny towns and villages that piqued our interest and those we think you should visit this year as our top travel recommendation.

1. Saint-Malo, in the Brittany region

Saint-Malo, in the Brittany
Indeed, nothing is more attractive than a fortified port city on the English Channel. The summertime tourist season sees a significant spike in the already meager population of the region. During the Middle Ages, the city controlled the passage from the ocean to the Rance River, contributing to its status as an important port. In later years, it also served as a haven for pirates and other people who traveled by water.

2. Espelette

Espelette, France
The town is well-known for its traditional homes, which are notable because they are fairly unique. In addition, the town has a castle. The town’s most recognizable feature, the red hot pepper, is produced at this location. They are strung up by the thousands outside the dwellings to dry, and once they are ready, a fine powder is created from them.

3. Port Grimaud, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

Port Grimaud, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Unbelievably, a coastal town was only founded in the 1960s by the French architect Francois Spoerry. As a result of the architect’s adoption of the Venetian channel system, the town is sometimes referred to as the “French Venice.” On the other hand, its shore is home to the fishermen’s cottages iconically associated with Saint Tropez. The local stores and markets in the town provide one with everything necessary to have a pleasant stay in this peaceful haven.

4. Yvoire, in the Rhône-Alpes region

Yvoire, in the Rhône-Alpes region
Yvoire, which spans along the beaches of Lake Geneva, is often regarded as being among France’s most beautiful settlements. During the summer, the cobblestone alleys of the medieval town, founded in the 14th century, are adorned with flowers. Because of this, strolling through the confined streets is an experience that is both more interesting and more pleasurable.

5. Conquer

Conquer, France

As in Mesopotamia, the medieval settlement may be found in the valley formed by the confluence of two rivers: the Dourdou and the Ouche. Because bigger cars cannot navigate the winding, historical alleys, the mood is marked by constant slowness.

Why would you go there?

The medieval structures have been kept in astonishingly good condition. It appears like a settlement that has been transported here directly from another time since it is encircled by dense vegetation and steep hills.

6. Colmar, Alsace

Colmar, Alsace
The city is one of the most visited places in France due to its charming old town that has been carefully conserved and the wide variety of architectural styles that can be seen there. Colmar’s old town may be explored on foot by wandering the city’s streets and boat on the Lauch River; the canals that run through the city have earned the nickname “little Venice.” Wine is produced in the area, and a renowned Wine Route is 170 kilometers long and passes through Colmar.

7. Mount Blanc and Chamonix

Mount Blanc and Chamonix
The ski resort is located on the slopes of the magnificent Mont Blanc range, and it has various pistes that are suitable for skiers of all skill levels. The Grands Montets has a slope that is 3,300 meters long. In addition to that, they provide a panoramic slide, the ability to glide through a forest, and high-quality services at the resorts.

8. Carcassonne

Carcassonne, France
The majestic fortress from the Middle Ages was rebuilt sometime during the 19th century and serves as the old town’s focal point. During the 13th century, the Catholic Inquisition operated out of one of the towers. Over three million visitors visit the fortified city each year, located in southwest France.

9. Gordes, Provence

Gordes, Provence

For generations, a spectacular historic town nestled on the hills of the renowned southern area has functioned as a walled city, shielding its inhabitants from the encroachment of outsiders. These days, in addition to being aesthetically pleasing, the town often plays home to a wide range of exhibits, festivals, and marketplaces.

Why would you go there?

Explore the magnificent ancient town, find the restaurants that provide a variety of cuisines, and don’t forget to check out the wine and almond festival.

10. Avignon

Avignon

One of the country’s most famous historic towns is located in the southeast of France: Avignon. In the sixth century B.C., people were already familiar with the city! As a site considered global heritage significance, UNESCO now safeguards it. The Pope’s Palace is the most recognizable landmark in the city and can be seen from a long distance.

Why would you go there?

Every year, the city of Avignon welcomes four million visitors. They like going on boat rides along rivers and seeing the historic buildings.

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