If you're not vacationing outside Paris, you might miss some of France's most beautiful destinations.
One of the most famous cities in the world, Paris has a lot to offer its visitors - but France has much more to offer than its famous capital. Spice up your French holiday by visiting one of France's most beautiful port cities, French-Italian islands, or its former capitals. Here are the top five destinations in France, excluding Paris.
1.) Marseille
Marseille, the oldest city in France, is so different from Paris that you can almost feel it without leaving France. If you're looking for a city with a unique atmosphere and culture, look no further than the bustling port city of Marseille.
Originally founded by the ancient Greeks, Marseille is the second-largest city in France with multicultural characteristics. Known for its unique cuisine and sunny weather, it is the perfect gateway to the rest of the Mediterranean.
2.) Corsica
During your visit to the Mediterranean, remember to check out the island of Corsica. Famous as the birthplace of Napoleon, this French-Italian island has a rich and fascinating history to soak up.
Truly diverse and rich in culture, Corsica is a fusion of French and Italian cultures to create something unique. It's also one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, with unspoiled scenery and a warm, sunny climate perfect for relaxing on the beach.
3.) Biarritz
Biarritz is a luxurious seaside resort in southwestern France - and historically, it was even a favorite of the royal family. With its beautiful beaches, surf schools, and plenty of sunshine, Biarritz is the perfect place to get away from it all and relax.
But if you'd rather soak up the culture than the sun, there's something for you in Biarritz, too. As a museum hub, Biarritz has a thriving contemporary art scene and some of the unique galleries in the country.
4.) Lyon
Paris may be the current capital of France, but long ago, that honor belonged to the ancient city of Lyon. This vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you're looking for culture, food, or sightseeing.
Visit Vieux Lyon with its beautiful Renaissance architecture, or try some of the city's famous dishes - it's renowned for its Lyonnaise salad and Quenelles de Brochet. Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. So why not find out why?
5.) Carcassonne
If you're looking for a romantic getaway, look no further than this beautiful mountain town with its quaint streets. Carcassonne has a fascinating medieval history; walking through this walled city feels like stepping back in time. There is no better place in France for a relaxing holiday with your partner or family.
Carcassonne has a fairy-tale landscape and a lot to discover. With its magnificent castle, majestic ramparts, and several monumental churches, Carcassonne is full of impressive sights. This quaint town seems untouched by time and has to be seen to be believed.
Diploma
France is a beautiful country with a rich culture, delicious food, and beautiful places to explore, mostly outside Paris. On your next holiday, why not get out of the capital and explore some of France's lesser-known but equally exciting destinations?
