As I’ve lived in Paris for the past several years now, I’ve been able to explore the rest of France and its many regions at ease – many places of which are underrated and people don’t often visit at all when they travel to France.

yellow buildings in aix en provence france — Street view of Aix-en-Provence in France; September 2025

I’ve seen quite a bit of France since moving across the Atlantic, from several trips to the Côte d’Azur, exploring Normandy, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, and more – I’ve explored places I had heard of both before moving to France as well as parts of France I had never even heard of before relocating to the land of wine, cheese, and baguettes.

After half a decade of living and traveling in France, I’m going to share my bulletproof list of what I firmly feel are France’s most underrated places to visit.

Top 10 Most Underrated Places to Visit in France

1. Arles

Home to where Van Gogh was inspired by many of his paintings, including Starry Night, Arles is a small city in the Provence region of France – located in between Montpellier and Marseille.

Le Café La Nuit in Arles, France; August 2023

What makes Arles so special is that throughout the city, there are numbered paintings for tourists to understand how each exact spot inspired one of Van Gogh’s specific paintings. In other There is no better way to immersive yourself inside the world of an artist than to visit Arles.

🎨 Best Things to Do in Arles

💛 The Famous Yellow Café

Sit and eat at the famous yellow café — it’s one of the most iconic “Arles moments,” and the perfect place to slow down, people-watch, and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.

🏛️ Arles Amphitheater

Visit the Arles amphitheater — an ancient Roman arena right in the heart of town. Even a quick walk-through is worth it for the history alone.

🎨 Follow the Painting Signs

Follow the town’s signs for each painting and viewpoint — Arles turns its streets into an open-air museum inspired by its artistic past.

🌙 Starry Night Locations

Track down the spots inspired by Starry Night and other works — it’s one of the most fun and interactive ways to explore Arles on foot.

Travel Time from Paris: Approximately 3 hours by train with a transfer in Avignon

Best for Travelers Like This: If you love spending hours in art museums such as the National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C., MoMa in NYC, or Musée d’lOrangerie with Monet’s water Lilly paintings in Paris – you’re going to be obsessed with Arles.

Pro Tip: If you aren’t able to eat at Le Café La Nuit (where Van Gogh famously painted a yellow café) due to seasonal contraints or long lines – I strongly suggest having lunch at the little garden square near Hôtel-Dieu where Van Gogh painted Le Jardin de la maison de santé à Arles.

2. Strasbourg

Perhaps not severely unknown as many international tourists frolic to Strasbourg, especially during Christmas – it would still be criminal to leave Strasbourg off this list as it truly is one of my favorite places I have ever been in France.

Strasbourg is a rare city that makes you feel like you’ve straight into a Disney fairy tale princess movie. Combining the best of German architecture, colorful houses, and sweet smells of fresh French bakeries – Strasbourg is an enchanting town

🎄✨ Best Things to Do in Strasbourg

🎄 Christmas Markets

Strasbourg is famous for its annual Christmas markets, but they are extremely popular — welcoming over 3.3 million visitors during the 2023 Christmas season alone . Plan accordingly, arrive early, and expect crowds during peak dates.

⛪ Strasbourg Cathedral

Visit Strasbourg Cathedral — one of the most commanding and impressive cathedrals in all of Europe. Its sheer size and intricate details are far more striking in person than in photos.

🌸 Picnic in La Petite France

Picnic or wander through La Petite France, a truly heavenly corner of Strasbourg. With its canals, waterside cafés, and pale pink half-timbered buildings, it’s one of the most beautiful areas in the city.

Travel Time from Paris: Approximately 2 hours by train non-stop from Paris

Best for Travelers Like This: If you adore charming villages, cities with canals like Bruges, German-style houses, and wandering around cities with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets – Strasbourg is the perfect place in France for you to visit.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a coffee or a small bite in the square where the cathedral is, as this will allow you to really take in how overwhelmingly massive it is in person. Also, while everyone always tries to visit Strasbourg during Christmas for the famous holiday markets – I really think the best time to visit is late spring or early summer. This is because Strasbourg offers beautiful water canal tours that are better enjoyed with warm weather and sunshine.

3. Avignon

Also located in France’s Provence region, Avignon is an old medieval style city that resides next to the Rhône River.

Walking the streets of Avignon in the rain; September 2025

What I like about Avignon is that it has a very distinct look that sets it apart from other cities in France or even in the rest of Europe.

With its lighter and even near-white colored buildings, wandering Avignon feels like a refreshing change of pace from other cities in France that sometimes can all start to look the same. Plus, its refreshing scenery next to the Rhône in combination with its history make it one of the more unique places to visit in France.

🏰🌿 Best Things to Do in Avignon

🏯 Old Walls of Avignon

Walk alongside the historic stone walls that once protected the city. The old walls of Avignon are incredibly well preserved and give you a true sense of the city’s medieval importance.

🚂 Train Tour of the City

Hop on the small tourist train to learn more about Avignon’s history without having to walk everywhere. It’s an easy, informative way to get oriented and understand the city’s past.

🛍️ Wander the Streets

Spend time wandering Avignon’s charming streets, filled with local shops, cafés, and Provençal boutiques. This is one of the best ways to soak up the atmosphere at a relaxed pace.

Best things to do in Avignon overview cards: old wall of Avignon, train tour to learn more about the history, wander the streets for shopping

Travel Time from Paris: Under 3 hours by train non-stop from Paris

Best for Travelers Like This: If you enjoy cities like Edinburgh, or any city on the smaller side without sacrificing deep history – then Avignon is the place to visit in France for you.

Pro Tip: If you want a nice view of the Avignon surrounding area, try to go up the Ferris Wheel – it’s best in the summer under the sunshine and the long daylight hours!

4. Annecy

This is one of those places in France I had never even heard of until I moved here, and several of my French friends or French colleagues recommended I visit.

Annecy is a small town nestled on a lake, perfect for people who enjoy low-key vacations with both photogenic scenery and the opportunity for biking, swimming, and other water sports.

palace on an little island in Annecy, France — Palais de I'Île in Annecy, France; August 2025

While I personally wouldn’t be entertained in Annecy for days on end, I do think it is a place in France that has been left off the travel radar for international tourists planning a trip to France.

Annecy shows a completely different side of France that you won’t find in popular tourist places like Paris, Bordeaux, or Marseilles – making it well worth a visit, especially if you plan to visit Switzerland during your trip to France as Annecy is a mere one hour away from Geneva.

🏞️🛶 Best Things to Do in Annecy

🛶 Swim or Paddle on Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy is one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, making it the perfect place to go for a swim or rent a paddle boat. On warm days, this is easily one of the best ways to experience the city.

🧺 Picnic by the Lake

If water sports aren’t your thing, simply picnicking by Lake Annecy is a must. The scenery is unbelievably beautiful, with turquoise water, mountains in the distance, and peaceful green spaces lining the shore.

🏘️ Wander the Old Town

Annecy’s Old Town is truly something special — with canals, pastel buildings, and charming streets throughout. I genuinely think this might be one of the best old towns that France has to offer.

Travel Time from Paris: Just under 4 hours by train non-stop from Paris (not high speed or “TGV” – there are stops in between)

Best for Travelers Like This: If you like places submersed in nature, especially mountains and lake such as those found in Switzerland, Scotland, or New Zealand – Annecy is a very fitting place for you to visit in France.

Pro Tip: If you can, stay as close to the Old Town as you can, as it’s the best way to the most of your stay in Annecy – given the best things Annecy has to offer are its panoramic park and narrow, canal-side cobblestone streets.

5. Dijon

Situated in one of the more underrated regions of France, Burgundy, Dijon is one of France’s best kept secrets – as it’s known for its wine vineyards, mustard, and distinctive architecture.

Want to see some of these underrated places in France in action? Check out my France travel vlog below!

🍷🧀 Best Things to Do in Dijon

🍂 Autumn Gastronomy Festival

Dijon truly shines in the fall, especially during its annual gastronomic events. Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in Burgundy’s food culture — from mustard and cheese to regional specialties and wine tastings.

🍇 Visit Wine Vineyards

Dijon sits at the gateway to Burgundy’s famous wine region, making it an ideal base for visiting nearby vineyards. Whether you book a guided tour or explore independently, wine tasting here is a must.

🏛️ Museum of Fine Arts

Located inside the Palais des Ducs, Dijon’s Museum of Fine Arts is one of the oldest and most impressive museums in France — and best of all, it’s free. A perfect cultural stop while exploring the city.

Travel Time from Paris: 1 hour and 40 minutes non-stop from Paris

Best for Travelers Like This: If you’re a person who loves to travel by tasting your way through cities, then Dijon is going to be the perfect place in France for you to visit.

Pro Tip: Try to plan your trip to Dijon around the autumn, as this will allow you to be there for the famous annual autumn gastronomic fair.

6. Beaune

A mere 20 minutes by train away from Dijon is Beaune, which was actually one of the first places I visited in France when I came when I was 18.

Discovering the old streets in Beaune, France; May 2017

Similar to Strasbourg and Colmar as in it brings about a fairytale like charm – Beaune encapsulates all the best things about France: bakeries, cobblestone streets, and old world charm – but without the crowds.

🍞🍷 Best Things to Do in Beaune

🥐 Wander Local Bakeries

Wander into local bakeries throughout Beaune — the pastries here are simply divine and shockingly affordable. This is one of the best places in France to indulge without breaking the bank.

🏰 Hospices de Beaune

One of the most iconic landmarks in Burgundy, the Hospices de Beaune is known for its colorful tiled roof and rich history. It’s a must-see while exploring the town.

🌿 Parc de la Bouzaise

A peaceful park just outside Beaune’s historic center, Parc de la Bouzaise is perfect for a picnic, a slow walk, or relaxing after a morning of sightseeing and wine tasting.

Travel Time from Paris: Between 2 to 3 hours by train with stops or switching trains

Best for Travelers Like This: People who enjoy small villages and communes, authenticity, and tourist-free places will fall in love with the grounded charm found in Beaune.

Pro Tip: Beaune is best explored without a phone and simply wandering around, as it has uncanny “old school” Beauty and the Beast vibes.

7. Bédoin

Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, Bédoin is another quiet village – but with an amazing local market and bike culture that make it stand out from the rest.

hilly streets in Bédoin in France — Exploring the streets of Bédoin in France; September 2025

What makes Bédoin special is its unique location higher in the mountains, which gives it a peaceful and secluded vibe – but doesn’t skimp on a wide variety of food and other goods at its massive market.

🚴‍♂️🌿 Best Things to Do in Bédoin

⛰️ Mont Ventoux

Bédoin is best known as the gateway to Mont Ventoux, one of the most iconic mountains in France. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or cycling, the views and dramatic landscape make this a must-see.

🚴 Bike Festivals & Cycling Culture

Bédoin is a legendary destination for cyclists, especially during bike festivals and racing seasons. The town buzzes with energy as riders from around the world attempt the famous climb up Mont Ventoux.

🧺 Local Market & Restaurants

Visit the local market to experience Provençal life at its best, then settle into one of Bédoin’s amazing local restaurants — perfect for long lunches, regional wines, and relaxed village evenings.

Travel Time from Paris: Around 5 and a half hours by train with several stops and switching trains

Best for Travelers Like This: People who are drawn towards quieter travel destinations and love scenic mountains views will love everything that Bédoin has to offer.

Pro Tip: I personally found it absolutely stunning in the summer, and if your sensitive to the cold – be sure to bring layers if you plan on visiting in the morning, as édoin is higher up in the mountains than you think.

8. L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is another smaller, provincial style town also located outside of Avignon – resting alongside the Sorgue river.

Exploring the streets of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue in France; August 2023

Known for its infamous water wheels, antique shopping, and various museum and art centers – L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue somehow perfectly combines quiet with exciting elements of travel and discovering French culture.

🌿💧 Best Things to Do in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

🧺 Famous Market

Visit the iconic market held on Thursdays and Sundays, when L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue comes alive with local produce, antiques, clothing, and Provençal specialties.

📸 Canal Photo Spots

Wander along the canals to find countless photo spots — with flowing water, stone bridges, and pastel buildings. The town feels a little reminiscent of Annecy, but with a distinctly Provençal twist.

🪑 Antique Shopping

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is considered one of the best places in France for antique shopping, with dozens of shops and galleries scattered throughout the town.

Travel Time from Paris: A little over by train with a stop in Avignon

Best for Travelers Like This: If you love to explore massive markets, and enjoy cities with wheels and windmills (think Montmartre in Paris or Amsterdam), you’ll fall head over heels for L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

Pro Tip: I think coming here on a sunny summer day to see the market in the morning and then break for lunch in the evening is best. The market can get crowded on Sundays, so plan accordingly!

9. Menton

In the French Riveria, a lot of the attention goes to Nice, Cannes, and Monte Carlo – but everyone is forgetting to visit Menton!

Waterfront restaurants in Menton, France; September 2025

A less crowded but nevertheless stunning city on the Côte d’Azur, Menton combines the scenic beach landscape found in Cannes and houses-sitting-on-mountains likes Monte Carlo.

Plus, you’re a mere 20 minute drive from the border of Italy – with the closest village being Ventimiglia. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy special jams and Italian cuisine in Menton – which can’t be said for many other places in France.

🍋🌊 Best Things to Do in Menton

🌊 Walk Along Baie du Soleil

Walk alongside the beach at Baie du Soleil, where you’ll find an endless stretch of seaside restaurants, cafés, and views over the Mediterranean.

🍯 Maison Herbin

Stop into Maison Herbin, an artisanal jam shop known for incredibly unique and creative jam flavors — one of the most memorable food stops in Menton.

💧 Annecy-Like Vibes

Parts of Menton feel a little reminiscent of Annecy, with colorful buildings, water views, and a relaxed pace that makes wandering especially enjoyable.

🪑 Antique Shopping

Browse antique shops and small boutiques throughout the town — Menton has plenty of hidden gems if you enjoy slow shopping and vintage finds.

Travel Time from Paris: A solid 6 hours with a transfer in Nice

Best for Travelers Like This: If you love beach towns, long curved beaches, low-key vibes, and exploring small villages – Menton will be the perfect place in France for you.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to pay 25€ for a burger, or aren’t interested on eating alongside the water – going in closer to the town will allow for cheaper restaurants and affordable bakeries. Plus, be sure to leave room in your suitcase – I am sure you won’t want to leave Menton without a couple of jars of artisanal jam!

10. Aix-en-Provence

I had to save the best for last, as Aix-en-Provence is truly a gem of a city that I had never heard of until moving to France.

Exploring the golden streets of Aix-en-Provence, France; September 2025

A lively student town with endless cafés, shopping, and a million other forms of entertainment – Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful and “hopping” city that is absolutely worth a visit, especially if you’re someone who can appreciate both cute and vivacious places.

🎨🌿 Best Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence

🎨 Outdoor Art Exhibits

Keep an eye out for outdoor art expos scattered throughout Aix-en-Provence — the city often feels like an open-air gallery, especially during warmer months.

📸 Wander the Streets

One of the best things to do in Aix-en-Provence is simply wandering the streets with your camera. From fountains to pastel buildings and cafés, the city is endlessly photogenic.

🧺 Aix-en-Provence Market

Visit the main market in Aix-en-Provence to browse local produce, flowers, cheeses, and Provençal specialties — it’s one of the liveliest parts of the city.

Travel Time from Paris: A little over 3 hours by train with a stop in Avignon

Best for Travelers Like This: If you’re like me, and have a soft spot for both powerhouse cities like London, New York, or Tokyo but also love cute, charming cities like Charleston, Christchurch, or Reykjavik – you’re going to be obsessed with Aix-en-Provence!

Pro Tip: If you prefer to explore the city at leisure without crowds, try visiting on a weekday – as students will be in class and the streets will be emptier. However, if you love a lively crowd and being surrounded by people – then exploring Aix on the weekend will probably be more to your liking.

🥖🍷🇫🇷 Visiting France FAQ 🇫🇷🥐🍷

🥐 Are French people rude?

I hate to say it, but yes — especially in bigger cities like Paris and Nice, French people can sometimes brush off tourists.

That said, if you make even a small effort to speak French — starting with a simple “bonjour” — you’ll often notice people soften immediately and become much friendlier.

💸 Is France expensive to visit?

The price point really depends on where in France you visit.

Paris is comparable to cities like New York or London — though still noticeably cheaper — while more rural or lesser-known areas of France are very affordable, especially if you stay outside major cities.

France isn’t outrageously expensive like some Scandinavian countries, but it’s also not as cheap as Italy, Spain, or Greece. Plan accordingly.

🗺️ Where else should I visit in France besides Paris?

After Paris, I highly recommend visiting Mont-Saint-Michel, Strasbourg, the Provence region, and then spending a few days along the French Riviera — better known in France as the Côte d’Azur.

⏳ How long should I visit France for?

For a first-time trip, 1 to 2 weeks is ideal.

I would focus on Paris, Normandy, Provence, and the Côte d’Azur. These regions alone give you an incredible overview of France’s food, landscapes, and cultural differences across the country.

🌸 What is the best time of year to visit France?

As someone who lives in France, I truly believe the best time to visit is May through June.

The weather is beautiful, the sun sets late, and it’s right before peak summer crowds flood places like Paris and Nice from July through August.

Want to see more of these underrated places in France in action? Check out my travel vlog below!

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Last updated: February 28, 2026