5 Amazing Towns To Visit in France Outside of Paris

France is a beautiful country but too often people don’t travel outside of Paris.

Avoid the tourist trips and follow this guide for an authentic experience of traveling like a local around France.

Here are 5 little towns you should visit.

Annecy, town of Haute-Savoie

Thanks to its idyllic location between lake and mountains, it is no surprise if Annecy is often called the 'Pearl of French Alps' or the ‘Venice of the Alps’ because of its canals.

Only 22 miles from the Geneva border in the Upper Savoy Region of eastern France, this is one of the most popular towns in France. 

It’s a perfect place for a romantic get away with a partner or yourself!

Eguisheim, town of Haut-Rhin

Very close to the town of Colmar and not far from the German border, you'll find the typical Alsatian village of Eguisheim, elected "Favorite French Village" a few years ago.

The village is one of the best wine producers of France and is on the Alsatian Wine Route; therefore you’ll find tons of stops to drink some vino. 

During Christmas time, Eguisheim becomes magical with its Christmas market. The whole town smells like gingerbread and there twinkling city lights everywhere.

Beynac-et-Cazenac, town of Dordogne

On the banks of the Dordogne River lies the beautiful medieval village of Beynac-et-Cazenac and its imposing castle on the top of the cliffs that was once besieged by Richard the Lion Heart. 

If the name of the village doesn't sound familiar to you, it actually featured some well-known movies such as Chocolat with Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.

Sit down at one of the many restaurants and bars of the village and enjoy the stunning views while having lunch and a good glass of wine.

Visiting Beynac-et-Cazenac is a good plan to explore the gardens along the winding streets and enjoy the beautiful views over the cliffs.

Lourmarin, town of Provence

Located in Provence and listed as "one of the most beautiful villages in France," Lourmarin is very animated during the summer with its cafe terraces, restaurants, boutiques and visitors exploring the 15th century castle. 

Ivy covered streets, small galleries, and aromas of lavender cover the town.

Albert Camus, winner of the Nobel Literature Prize, lived and wrote there and was also buried in the cemetery of Lourmarin. 

If you're looking for some inspiration, this is a perfect to find some. And magic...

Gevrey-Chambertin, town of Côte-d'Or

If you're driving in the beautiful and charming Burgundy region of eastern France, make a stop at this winemaking village off the Route des Grand Crus in the Côte de Nuits, about 15km south of the famous city Dijon. 

This is a perfect place to visit and enjoy some homemade wine with some cheese. We know that Under30Experiences makes a stop here for some wine tasting.

If you’re taking a road trip with friends, or a partner or maybe you’re a solo traveler looking to explore something different other than Paris. 

Check out our Under30Experiences France trip! You can’t get enough wine and cheese from Paris.