The Top 6 Unique Places To Visit in France Outside of Paris – Breathtaking Destinations Near Paris!

Bonjour! Wow, beautiful and charming France—a country full of unique and breathtaking places you absolutely need to include in your travel plans. While Paris is an iconic destination, the magic of France extends far beyond the City of Light. From medieval villages to coastal wonders, there’s so much more to explore. So, pack your bags, and let’s embark on a journey to discover six magnificent places to visit outside of Paris that will leave you in awe!

1. Marseille: A Mediterranean Marvel

Distance from Paris: 3 hours by train

Our first stop takes us to the vibrant and historic port city of Marseille, located on the Mediterranean coast. A quick 3-hour train ride from Paris, Marseille is known for its lively culture, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the sea.

Start your exploration at the Old Port (Vieux-Port), where locals gather to buy fresh fish and sip coffee while admiring the view of the harbor. You’ll also want to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched high above the city, offering panoramic views that will take your breath away.

A great way to make the most of your time here is by booking a guided tour. Whether you're exploring the historic streets or sailing the Mediterranean coastline, a knowledgeable guide will ensure you don’t miss out on any of the hidden gems this city has to offer.

These are some of the most popular guided tours people are booking when visiting Marseille:

• Marseille: City Introduction Guided Walking Tour

• Marseille City Sightseeing - Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

• Marseille: 24, 48, or 72-Hour CityPass with Public Transport

2. Lyon: The Culinary Capital of France

Distance from Paris: 2 hours by train

Next, we head to Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 2 hours by train from Paris. Known for its rich history, stunning Renaissance architecture, and world-famous gastronomy, Lyon is a must-visit for food lovers and culture seekers alike.

Wander through the cobbled streets of Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) and explore the charming traboules—hidden passageways that date back to the Middle Ages. Don’t forget to take a guided walking tour to learn about Lyon’s role in the silk trade and the French Revolution.

Of course, no trip to Lyon is complete without indulging in its legendary cuisine. From bouchons (traditional Lyonnaise restaurants) to gourmet dining, the city is a culinary heaven. Booking a food tour is a fantastic way to sample the best dishes and learn about the city’s food culture from a local expert.

These are some of the most popular guided tours people are booking when visiting Lyon:

• Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Saone River Cruise

• Lyon: Vieux Lyon Food Tasting Walking Tour

• Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket ( Museum)

  
  

Marsailles - coastal city is a vibrant tapestry of ancient history, multicultural influences, and Mediterranean charm, crowned by the Notre Dame de la Garde.

The Basilica of Fourvière, a towering landmark overlooking Lyon, stands as a testament to the city's deep-rooted Catholic faith. Its construction began in 1872, a time of great religious fervor following the Franco-Prussian War.

3. Colmar: A Fairytale Come to Life

Distance from Paris: 2.5 hours by train

Step into a fairy tale in Colmar, one of the most picturesque towns in France. Located in the Alsace region and just a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris, Colmar is renowned for its colorful half-timbered houses, charming canals, and cobblestone streets.

Beyond Colmar itself, the surrounding fairytale villages of Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Hunawihr are nestled along the Alsace Wine Route, where you can wander through vineyards and explore quaint shops. A guided tour of these villages or a wine-tasting excursion is highly recommended—you’ll be able to savor the region’s finest wines, including the famous Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

These enchanting towns are so beautiful, you might feel like you've stepped into another world!

These are some of the most popular guided tours people are booking when visiting Colmar:

• Colmar: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes

• Alsace: Half-Day Wine Tour from Colmar

• Colmar: 2-Hour Segway Tour

• Colmar: Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket

Colmar - Little Venice, a charming quarter dating back to the 13th century, is a testament to Colmar's rich history. Its picturesque canals and half-timbered houses offer a glimpse into medieval life.

4. The Loire Valley: France’s Castle Country

Distance from Paris: 1.5 hours by car

A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without visiting the stunning Loire Valley, known as the "Garden of France" for its lush landscapes and world-class vineyards. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Paris, the Loire Valley is home to some of the most spectacular castles in the world.

One of the highlights is Château de Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece surrounded by vast forests and gardens. You’ll also want to visit the beautifully manicured gardens of Château de Villandry and the impressive Château de Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher.

A guided tour of the Loire Valley’s châteaux will ensure you hear the fascinating history behind these architectural marvels, while also allowing you to skip the lines and maximize your time exploring these magnificent sites.

These are some of the most popular guided tours people are booking when visiting Colmar:

• From Paris: Loire Valley Castles Day Trip With Wine Tasting

• Chambord: Entry Ticket to the Castle

• From Paris: Full-Day Loire Valley Chateaux Tour

• Chenonceau Castle Admission ticket

Built on the Cher River, Chenonceau Castle has a rich history, having served as a home to powerful women like Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers. Its unique design, spanning the river, reflects the influence of these influential figures.

6. Mont Saint-Michel: A Marvel Rising from the Sea

Distance from Paris: 3.5 hours by car

Our final stop is the awe-inspiring Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island off the coast of Normandy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly a sight to behold as it appears to rise from the sea, especially during high tide when the island is surrounded by water.

Mont Saint-Michel is about a 3.5-hour drive from Paris, and a visit to this magical place is like stepping back in time. Climb the winding streets to reach the abbey at the top, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding bay.

Guided tours here are highly recommended to fully understand the abbey’s historical significance and the unique tidal patterns that surround the island. A tour will also provide fascinating insights into the religious and cultural importance of this iconic landmark.

These are some of the most popular guided tours people are booking when visiting Mont Saint-Michel:

• Mont Saint-Michel: Entry Ticket to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

• Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris

• From Paris: Mont Saint Michel Day Trip with a Guide

• Mont Saint Michel: Walking Tour & Optional Abbey Ticket

The abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of medieval builders. Its towering spire and intricate details are a sight to behold.

Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a medieval marvel perched atop a tidal island. Its strategic location and religious importance have shaped its history for centuries.

Final Thoughts:

France is full of surprises, and these six unique destinations outside of Paris showcase the country’s diverse beauty and rich heritage. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Marseille, sipping wine in the Alsace region, or wandering the halls of Versailles, each location offers something special for every traveler.

Booking guided tours and tickets for these must-see places is a fantastic way to enhance your experience. Not only will you have access to expert insights, but you’ll also be able to relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the details.

One of the best websites to book travel experiences is GetYourGuide.com. Here, you can find everything from guided tours of must-see places and unique landmarks to cruise and hop-on hop-off bus tickets. They even offer museum tickets and river cruises, along with many other options. Check it out for yourself! You'll be amazed by the variety of experiences you can book and explore. It's one of the most popular and well-known sites that people all over the world use to book their excursions and guided tours.

Thanks for reading our article! We hope you enjoyed this journey through France’s most breathtaking destinations. Be sure to check out the YouTube video below to see these beautiful places in action.

Vive la France! Au revoir!