Best Places to Visit in France Besides Paris
There are more things to do in France than just Paris.
July 16, 2026
5 minute read
Quick Answer
Places to go in France besides Paris include:
The French Riviera for time on the coast.
Normandy if you love history.
Strasbourg and Alsace for regional culture.
Why Plan Your Trip to France Beyond Paris?
Whilst you could easily spend a week, a month, maybe a year or two exploring all the things to do in Paris, it’s still only one side of France’s many personalities. Outside the city streets there are countrysides to wander through, different regional traditions to explore, and historic sites where you can meet the people keeping history alive.
In this guide, we’ll share the best places to visit in France besides Paris based on Collette’s France tours designed by Sandra C.
France for Coast and Sun: The French Riviera and the Côte d’Azur
The French Riviera is a coastal region in southern France made up of walkable cities, resort towns, and smaller hilltop villages.
Sandra describes the French Riviera as breathtaking with vibrant streets to explore and a famous flower market. Using Nice as a “home base,” you can head to Monaco or Cannes for a touch of glamour or take a ferry to relax on Saint Honorat Island with a glass of the wine made there.
Things to do in the French Riviera (Nice, Monaco, Cannes):
Explore Nice’s vibrant streets, take a food tour, wander through the flower market, or visit Castle Hill.
Take a day trip to Monaco and pretend you’re royalty on a visit inside the Prince’s Palace or take in views that include Monte Carlo on a train ride through the city.
See where the Cannes Film Festival takes place.
Sip wine produced by monks on Saint‑Honorat Island.
Check out villas, medieval towns, and art galleries in places like Saint‑Jean‑Cap‑Ferrat and Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence.
Bonus things to do for Collette travellers: Travellers on our Spotlight on the French Riviera tour have opportunities for more hands-on activities in the region like a tasting in the middle of the vineyard and a chance to make your own perfume whilst learning about the industry.
Tours that include the French Riviera:
History in France: Normandy and the D‑Day Beaches
Normandy is a historic region in northern France. The region is especially moving for travellers that have some kind of historical or personal connection with World War II.
“I loved the World War II experience in Normandy. It really touched me.” — Sally H., Traveller on Collette’s France Magnifique Tour.
Collette’s World War II experience includes Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Our tours also go to Mont‑Saint‑Michel, an abbey that further encourages quiet reflection and introspection.
Things to do in Normandy:
Walk Omaha Beach and reflect on the events of D‑Day.
Visit the Normandy American Cemetery, often one of the most meaningful moments for travellers on Collette’s tour.
Climb the steps to Mont‑Saint‑Michel, an abbey that rise out of the landscape like an island.
Tours that include Normandy:
Spotlight on Paris (optional Normandy excursion)
Visit the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg and Alsace
Strasbourg, in the Alsace region, is a smaller city full of tradition and known as the “Capital of Christmas.” Its Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe, tracing its history back to the Middle Ages.
The market in Strasbourg runs for four weeks, starting in late November. You’ll be greeted by twinkling lights and can enjoy various events including concerts and sing-alongs in local churches.
Many nearby villages also hold Christmas markets to showcase local know-how and different customs. Travellers with Collette get the added excitement of visiting markets in Germany and Switzerland as well.
It’s not just the Christmas markets and architectural charm that bring people here. Be sure to try some of the excellent Alsatian food and wine.
Things to do in Strasbourg and Alsace:
Experience the famous Christmas markets that draw locals together.
Check out the architecture in nearby towns like Colmar.
Stroll through neighborhoods and savour local food — the wine is really stellar here!
Strasbourg and Alsace:
Enchanting Christmas Markets of Germany, Switzerland and France
Christmas Markets and Castles of Europe with Germany and France
FAQs About the Best Places to Go in France Besides Paris
Where should you go in France besides Paris?
Places to visit in France beyond Paris include the French Riviera, Normandy, Southern France, and Strasbourg and the Alsace region. Each offers a different way to experience the country, from coastal cities and historic sites to hands‑on food traditions and walkable regional towns.
What are the best places to visit in France for history?
Normandy is one of the best places in France for travellers interested in history, especially World War II. Visiting the D‑Day beaches and the Normandy American Cemetery is a more personal and reflective experience than museums alone.
What are the best coastal places to visit in France?
The French Riviera offers the beach vibes of the coast with access to cities like Nice and Cannes where you can find markets, museums, cafés, and neighborhoods to explore.
Can you combine these places with time in Paris?
Yes. Many travellers pair time in Paris with one or more regions such as the French Riviera or Normandy. Paris often works well as a starting or ending point to a multi-region tour.
Exploring France Beyond Paris
Every region in France has its own culture, history, and different things to do. Going beyond Paris lets you connect with more of the country and experience France’s coasts, countrysides, and smaller cities and villages.
Visit our France Tours page for more inspiration and ideas on where your next journey might take you.
