7 Underrated Places to Visit in France

Annecy is a romantic town along a pristine lake of the same name, with striking mountains acting as the backdrop. It's part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France, a quick 50-minute drive from Geneva, Switzerland. Visitors can spend their days exploring historic castles and cathedrals, shopping along the canals, and even paragliding over the picturesque landscape. Couples should be sure to cross the Pont des Amours (Lovers' Bridge), as legend says that those who kiss while on the bridge will be together forever.

Medieval buffs, particularly, will be drawn to Avignon, whose ancient town center is enclosed by a 14th-century fortress. The Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) housed several popes between 1309 and 1377 before they moved to Rome. It remained under papal control until 1789, when it was seized during the French Revolution.

For those who don't mind crowds, Avignon’s annual arts festival in July is a jubilant time for theater, dance, and film. The town is situated along the Rhone River, an hour's drive northwest of Marseille.

A 15-minute drive from Monaco and a 25-minute drive from Nice, Eze is a charming destination for a great day trip or as a base for exploring the breathtaking French Riviera region. With a population of around 2,155, the tiny town is far less touristy (but no less beautiful) than other Mediterranean coast cities like Cannes. Set high on a hill (1,407 feet above sea level), Eze has stunning sea views from several vantage points, including the lovely cacti-filled Exotic Garden of Eze.

An hour north of Normandy (and two hours from Paris), Honfleur is a harbor town of around 8,000 people. Sitting along the coast where the Seine meets the English Channel, the landscape here is stunning—it’s easy to see why it inspired Impressionist painter Claude Monet.

Visitors to Honfleur can see the largest wooden church in France, the Church of St. Catherine, admire the art in the Musée Eugène Boudin, and stroll along the boat-filled Le Vieux Bassin.

Bonifacio offers a perfect compromise for travelers who can't decide between Italy and France. Occupying the southern tip of the island of Corsica, this destination is nearly within arm's reach of the Italian island of Sardinia (ferries run back and forth multiple times a day). Idyllic beaches and cool caverns are large draws, but it's the long history that really stands out.

Founded around 830, the medieval town center today has narrow cobblestone streets, ancient sites, and many charming cafes. The island lures lots of vacationers (primarily from France) during the summer months, so travel in the off-season to avoid crowds.

The coastal town of Etreat is best known for its striking chalk cliffs, including three natural arches that pop against the turquoise-blue water. Outdoor activities center around these stunning landmarks, and boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and simply sitting on the beach are all popular pastimes.

Cobblestone streets lined by storybook houses in cheerful pink and yellow hues, with timber and flower planter accents, set the fairytale scene in Colmar. The most delightful area is where multiple canals meet, appropriately dubbed “La Petite Venise.” The walkable Old Town area has numerous charming churches, museums, and pâtisseries to explore.