French Escapes: Experience the Magic of These Charming Cities
France is a country that has so much to offer to tourists all year round! From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the stunning vineyards of Bordeaux. France has numerous small towns and cities that are as equally charming and captivating as their big-city counterparts. In this article, we will explore some of the most magical cities in France that are perfect for your next vacation.
1. Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a charming city in Northeastern France that is known for its picturesque architecture and rich history. It is home to the famous Petite France, a charming neighborhood that is lined with colorful half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and lovely canals. Strasbourg is also home to the famous Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which is said to have witnessed 800 years of France’s progress.
2. Annecy
If you are looking for a romantic getaway, then Annecy is the perfect destination for you. It is known as the Venice of the Alps, and its old town is full of winding canals and charming medieval buildings. The lake of Annecy is also a must-visit attraction, as it is considered one of the cleanest lakes in the world.
3. Colmar
Colmar is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region and is known for its beautiful half-timbered buildings and colorful flower-lined streets. It is also home to the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece, one of the most important artworks of the Middle Ages.
4. Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a fortified medieval city in the South of France, which is often referred to as the City of Knights. It is home to two UNESCO heritage sites, including just the city itself and the Canal du Midi. Carcassonne’s old town is surrounded by ancient walls, complete with 52 towers, and it is one of the most elegant and preserved fortified cities in Europe.
5. Riquewihr
Riquewihr is a small and quaint medieval town situated in the heart of the Alsace wine region. Its old town is lined with colorful half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets.
6. Chamonix
Chamonix is a ski resort located in the heart of the French Alps. It is famous for its stunning scenery, world-class ski slopes, and mountaineering. It is also home to the highest peak in Europe, Mont Blanc.
7. Sarlat-la-Canéda
Located in the Dordogne region of France, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a charming medieval town that is known for its fantastic food, street markets, and unique architecture. It is home to numerous excellent restaurants and is known for its duck confit and foie gras.
8. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a small town located in the Provence region. It is full of art galleries, craft shops, and restaurants. Its narrow streets are lined with charming stone buildings, and it has stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
9. Bayeux
Bayeux is a small town in the Normandy region that is known for its world-famous tapestry. The Bayeux tapestry is an incredible work of art that depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
10. Avignon
Avignon is located in the south of France and is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the famous Palace of the Popes, which was the seat of the Roman Catholic popes in the 14th century. The city is also home to the Pont d’Avignon or the Saint-Bénézet bridge, over the Rhône River.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit French Escapes?
The best time to visit French Escapes is from mid-April to mid-June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer.
2. Do I need a visa to visit French Escapes?
If you are a citizen of the USA, Canada, Australia, or the EU, you do not need a visa to enter France for a stay of up to 90 days.
3. What is the currency of France, and where can I exchange my money?
The currency of France is the Euro. You can exchange your money at banks or currency exchange offices.
4. What is the best way to get around French Escapes?
The best way to get around French Escapes is by train, bus or hire a car.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in French Escapes
1. Notre Dame Cathedral in Strasbourg.
2. The lake of Annecy in Annecy.
3. Unterlinden Museum in Colmar.
4. Old Town in Carcassonne.
5. Medieval town in Riquewihr.
6. Mont Blanc in Chamonix.
7. Sarlat-la-Canéda old city.
8. Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Bayeux.
9. The Popes Palace in Avignon.
10. The Saint-Bénézet bridge in Avignon.