Top 10 cities in France
A short break in France is extremely popular not least because this it has a deserved reputation as one of the world's most romantic countries and many of its cities make wonderful places to escape to with a loved one. Only the foolish draw the line at its capital, and although it is undisputedly one of the world's great cities, there is much more to this wonderful land than Paris alone. France is a country of vastly different regions and many of its larger cities not only reflect a distinct cultural heritage, but also their own unique climates, art, architecture and food. We've gathered together ten of France's most vibrant cities, from close to its northern border with Germany down through its vast interior and onto the glamorous Mediterranean coast. If you're planning a city visit, long weekend or short break break in France, consider an alternative to the City of Lights and try one of our suggestions. Ranging from cool and hip urban centres to ancient walled ports, there's a good reason for millions of people choosing a French holiday every year. Our list includes something for just about everyone! Why not view our selection of France vacation rentals today!
1. Avignon
Few people know that Avignon was once the residence of Popes and has, since the middle ages, been a city of major religious importance. Its Gothic splendour and famous historic centre make short breaks in Avignon a popular choice for culture lovers. A former ‘European City of Culture', Avignon makes a great destination if you enjoy exploring ancient old towns, and its car-free policy means a walking tour is the best way to enjoy its medieval ramparts, churches, bridge and Papal Palace. An apartment in Avignon, set deep in the heart of Provence, makes a wonderfully romantic destination for long weekends.
2. Grenoble
Grenoble's dramatic setting, in the middle of the French Alps, makes it a popular stop-off for anyone touring the Dauphiné region. During the winter the city is a haven for skiers and snowboarders, who flock to the nearby slopes, but guesthouses and apartments in Grenoble are popular all year. The city has a thriving centre, which is almost completely pedestrianised, making it a pleasure to stroll the narrow streets and enjoy its many stores, bars and cafes. Grenoble also has some fantastic restaurants, serving local specialities like fondue and many have terraces offering splendid views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Narbonne
Once a key trading post of the Roman Empire, Narbonne, is one of the Languedoc region's hidden gems. A charming city, with its own low-key beach, short breaks in Narbonne are ideal if you fancy a little sunbathing with your culture. The old city is loaded with historic attractions including the dramatic Cathedrale St-Just and the splendid Place de l'Hotel de Ville, its wonderfully Mediterranean square and cultural heart. Much of the accommodation in Narbonne is situated close to the beach and its worth trying to find a hotel with sea views and a balcony, if you are thinking of a long weekend.
4. Strasbourg
Home to the European Parliament, Strasbourg, in the heart of Alsace province, is frequently overlooked by visitors. Its ancient beauty, which includes the fantastic Notre-Dame Cathedral, Europe's highest medieval building, has inspired artists for centuries, including Goethe and Victor Hugo. Short breaks in Strasbourg are increasing in popularity, and the city now offers some great accommodation close to its historic Grand Ile, a World Heritage Site and home to many of its finest Romanesque buildings. With a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere, part French, part German, and its importance as an administrative centre for the EU, Strasbourg has plenty to back up its claim of being the capital city of Europe.
5. Paris
The French capital is one of the world's great cities attracting millions of visitors every year. With so much to see and do, a single short break to Paris is never enough, making it a perennial favourite of culture lovers and incurable romantics alike. Do visit major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, but don't forget the timeless joys of its Latin Quarter and Montmartre and be sure to set aside a day or two for exploring on foot. Paris is the original destination for Le Long Weekend and has some of the world's best restaurants. With hotels to suit every budget and taste, it offers the perfect city break to share with that special somebody. View our wide selection of Paris Holiday Apartments today!
6. Marseille
Seen by many as France's Mediterranean capital, Marseille is the country's oldest city with a history dating back almost 3000 years. Classically understated, Marseille has something of an urban sprawl, although most of its major cultural attractions are either within, or close to its historic old Panier district. Dominated by the imposing Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, with its panoramic views over the city, the old port is connected to the rest of Marseille by its widest boulevard, the splendid Canebière. Increasingly popular as a destination for short stays and city breaks, much of the centre and old port are pedestrianised and with lots of great bars and restaurants, Marseille is a city for the adventurous. View our selection of Marseille accommodation today!
7. Cannes
Seductive Cannes, known throughout the world for its annual Film Festival and fabulous coastal boulevard, has been attracting visitors since the days of the Grand Tour. Its reputation as a health resort made it a favourite with the English aristocracy almost two hundred years ago, and today Cannes has become a major draw for foreign visitors, not just during the summer months, but throughout the year. The city makes a great destination for short breaks, and if you are looking for a glamorous spot to indulge in a long weekend, of great food and world class people watching, book your table on La Croisette now. Book a Cannes apartment rental today!
8. Nice
At the heart of France's stunning Cote d'Azur lies buzzing Nice, the epitome of French style and good taste. Great for longer stays as well as short breaks, this typically Mediterranean city has plenty to offer culture lovers as well as sun worshippers. Vieux Nice is packed with grand baroque architecture and buildings from the Belle Époque, while the Promenade des Anglais and Place Rossetti are its essential social hotspots. With the exception of a few private sand stretches, the beaches of Nice are uncomfortably rocky, but the bars and cafes along its palm fringed shoreline make a great place to enjoy the city's uniquely sophisticated charms.
9. Lyon
Sitting at the convergence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is the provincial capital of France's Rhône region, in the centre of the country. Traditionally a popular stopping off point, for tourists heading to the beaches of the Cote d'Azur, a growing numbers of visitors are choosing short stays and city breaks in Lyon, with its unique blend of ancient heritage and modern cultural attractions. The city has notable Roman ruins including the Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls and the Odeon, while its medieval Saint-jean and Croix-Rouse districts, with their narrow streets and passageways are a designated World heritage Site. Food and wine are an important part of life in Lyons and foodies will love the convivial atmosphere and fantastic cooking of its traditional Bouchon restaurants.
10. Aix-en-Provence
Seen by many as the ultimate Provencal experience, Aix-en-Provence, just 30km from Marseille and the clamour of the Cote d'Azur, is a quiet, clean and wealthy city. Not a place for budget travellers, if you are in search of a few of life's finer pleasures, for your next city break, try renting an apartment in Aix-en-Provence. The artist Cezanne made Aix his home and a well-marked walking route takes in many of his favourite spots, while the city's numerous fountains and small squares are best explored on foot. The old city is the place to head, for both the best food and accommodation in Aix-en-Provence. The area between the Place de Cardeurs and the Rotonde probably has the pick of the best restaurants in town, but also some real tourist traps, so be warned.
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