7 Charming French Villages Beyond Paris

France is a breathtaking country; however, many people visit only Paris. When you leave the bustle of the city behind, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful appeal of the beautiful French countryside.

The scenery provides a window into traditional French living with it is picturesque villages, lush vineyards, and rolling hills. Every location in France, from the sun-kissed meadows of Provence through the rough splendour surrounding the French Alps, has its special charm.

When you travel with Air France, you can have a fantastic time. Long-haul flights have access to the in-flight entertainment system, which provides audio, TV series, children’s movies, and movies. On every flight, complimentary snacks, meals, and drinks are available.

1. Haute-Savoie Town of Annecy

It is not surprising that Annecy is frequently referred to as the “Pearl of the French Alps” or the “Venice of the Alps” due to its canals, given its picturesque setting between a lake and mountains.

One of the most well-known cities in France is located in the High Savoy region, located in eastern France, just 22 miles across the Geneva boundary.

It’s the ideal location for an intimate getaway by yourself or with a significant other!

2. The Haut-Rhin Town of Eguisheim

Not far from the German border and very near the town of Colmar is the classic Alsatian village of Eguisheim, which was named “Favourite French Village” just several years ago.

Many places are there to stop and sip wine in this village because it is one of France’s top wine producers located along the Alsatian Wine Route.

Eguisheim’s Christmas market turns the town into a wonderful place throughout the holiday season. The smell of gingerbread surrounds the entire town, and sparkling city lights can be seen everywhere.

3. The Town of Beynac-et-Cazenac in the Dordogne

Beynac-et-Cazenac is a picturesque mediaeval village situated on the eastern side of the Dordogne River. Richard the Lion Heart famously besieged the fortress perched atop the cliffs. If the village’s name sounds unfamiliar, it was the setting for several well-known films, including Johnny Depp’s Chocolat and Juliette Binoche.

Enjoy lunch and a nice glass of wine while sitting down at one of the village’s many eateries or pubs and taking in the breathtaking views.

A wonderful way to discover the lush landscaping along the meandering lanes and take in the stunning views above the cliffs is to visit Beynac-et-Cazenac.

4. The Provence Town of Lourmarin

Known as the most gorgeous town in France, Lourmarin is a lively summertime destination with its cafe patios, restaurants, boutiques, and tourists touring the castle dating back to the fifteenth century. It is located in Provence.

Provence epitomises rustic beauty with its purple fields, olive orchards, and charming hilltop villages. Wander through vibrant markets filled with the aroma of fresh herbs, explore the ancient streets of villages like Gordes and Roussillon, and savour the famous gastronomy of the area, which includes delicacies like tarte Tatin, bouillabaisse, and ratatouille.

The village is filled with little galleries, and the streets are covered in ivy and lavender scents.

The Nobel Literature Prize laureate Albert Camus was buried in the Lourmarin cemetery and lived and wrote there.

This is a great place to gather inspiration if you’re seeking some.

5. Gevrey-Chambertin, Côte-d’Or Town

This wine town is located approximately 15 km south of the well-known city of Dijon, on the Côte de Nuits, along the Route des Grand Crus, if you’re driving through the stunning and quaint area of Burgundy in eastern France.

This would be the perfect spot to share some cheese and homemade wine.

6. The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a historical and oenophile haven, renowned for its majestic châteaux and verdant vineyards. Explore fanciful mansions like Château de Chambord and Chenonceau, ride bicycles along picturesque riverbank paths, and savour the region’s award-winning wines, which include refined Cabernet Francs and crisp Sauvignon Blancs.

7. Brittany

Brittany gives a sense of rough coastal beauty with its windswept cliffs, fishing villages, and jagged shoreline. Discover the charming Pink Granite Coast, take a stroll through the historic walled city of Saint-Malo, and indulge in delectable fresh seafood dishes such as oysters, mussels, and crêpes stuffed with salted caramel.