Big streets, flashing city lights, people everywhere, long queues and worldwide famous attractions – yes, there’s something exciting about all this that keeps engaging tourists into a squeezed schedule of frequent trips. But is this always causing pleasure for the visitors of a particular city? Does it mean that once you go to a particular country, it’s better to visit the capital or other big cities and leave all else behind? On the contrary, big cities might be exciting but if you’re eager to learn more about the culture and traditions of a particular country, try out the local dishes and experience the daily life of the people then it’s always better to approach the smaller towns.
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Charming little towns in France
France is a beautiful country and not seeing the big and famous cities like Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and Toulouse would be a shame for those that want to see the main attractions. However, if you’re willing to skip the crowd that is occupying these cities, then we have several recommendations for you. These small cities may not have the Eiffel Tower or famous museums such as Louvre, but they sure are pleasant for all senses, offering you a unique experience of grasping the French culture. The narrow streets and small houses are ready to enchant you while you taste the most delicious wines and stare at the incredible landscapes. Consider visiting the following delightful little towns in France and give into the magic of:
Amiens
Located in northern France, meet the capital of Somme department, a French division in Nord-Pas-de-Calais-Picardie. Amiens is a charismatic town that has one of the largest university hospitals located in France. It’s a magnificent destination, with stunning Gothic churches and yet urban, with excellent conditions for cycling. What’s characteristic about this city is the Canal de la Somme which brings an even more authentic touch to the look and feel of Amiens. The canal is assumed to exist from the 19th century, while the bridge crossing was built somewhere after the World War II. Other than the visual part, Amiens also tastes good, and the several famous types of pastry are a proof of that. Try the famous macarons or experiment with stuff like “tuiles amienoises” for the ultimate gastronomical experience.
Annecy
This alpine town located in southeastern France is like it has been built out of someone’s fantasies – it is that good! The cobbled streets and pastel-colored houses are just a part of the simple decorations which makes this city highly aesthetic. On the other hand, you have the canals and the Thiou River flowing through the old town, giving you the impression that you’re in Venice rather than someplace else. If you’re visiting this place, make sure to plan a lovely afternoon at Lake Annecy for a fantastic view of the surroundings.
Bayeux
Classy and mysterious, Bayeux takes you back in time and teaches you more about the history of France. It is actually a commune, located on the Aure River somewhere in northwestern France. Found in Normandy, this authentic destination will award you with a unique experience, all you have to do is find the best places to enjoy it. Therefore, we recommend you to visit Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux since this place is known to be the home of Bayeux Tapestry but also check out the British War Cemetery, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Museum of the Battle of Normandy and so on.
Colmar
A glorious combination of various colors and shapes, Colmar is definitely one of the prettiest small cities in France. It’s hard not to fall in love with such spectacular town where the houses are so cute and small that you feel like you’re in a sugar town, hoping to have a bite of every each of them. Located in the region Alsace somewhere in north-eastern France, Colmar is a place you should visit in any period of the year. During the warmer days, the flowers are blooming, and the people are spreading their overwhelming energy, whereas the snow during the colder days adds a different flavor and turns this city into a fairytale.
Gerberoy
Small and pure, just a short walk through Gerberoy will make you feel like you’re in a movie. Little colorful houses decorated with flowers and trees are spread through the whole town. The people living there seem happy and satisfied with the little things in life as if nothing from the cruel reality can touch them. Spend a day walking down the streets of Gerberoy and you will understand that simplicity is what helps you be happy in life. And on top of all, don’t reject a glass of wine from the warm, welcoming locals.
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Take a stroll down the streets of Beynac-et-Cazenac and you’ll be amazed by the medieval houses and classy attitude of the locals. This little town, which is rather a village, is located on the banks of Dordogne River, offering an excellent view of the surroundings and a spectacular experience of a destination located up a hill. It’s way different than the other towns on this list, which is why you should include it in your traveling schedule.
Eguisheim
A charming little town located in Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine, Eguisheim is yet another small town looking like from a fairytale. The narrow cobbled streets and colorful houses bring joy to the visitors, as they strive to find the best Alsace wine there is. So if you’re a passionate wine lover, make sure to visit this city as you will find some of the best wines in France made and served right in this region.
Are you ready for your “Tour de France”? We know that Paris is always a good idea, but there’s a distinct spirit in these small towns that cannot be easily found in a big city that never sleeps. Explore France by acting like a local, see the places tourists usually skip and enjoy the warmth of each city.
France, oohlala…my ancesters came from there, some from Rochelle…had I known, my daughter wd b Rochelle instead of Rachelle after her french great grandmother.
The towns are charming, I wd love to b there. It shows intelligence by not tearing down homes that are old or even medieval but beautiful. USA still has a lot to learn!