If there’s anything better than visiting France, it’s exploring the country’s charming small towns. From the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to the quaint village of Chamonix, these picturesque villages are a must-see for anyone looking to experience the beauty of this country. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at 10 of the most charming small towns in France. From coastal escapes to mountain retreats, each destination has its own unique character and charm that make it worth visiting—so get ready to add them all to your bucket list!
Eze
1. Eze
Eze is a small town located in the French Riviera. It is known for its beautiful scenery, its medieval architecture, and its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors to Eze can explore the town's history at the Eze Castle, visit the local market, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
Riquewihr
Riquewihr is a small town in the Alsace region of France. The town is located in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains and is known for its picturesque streets and half-timbered houses. Riquewihr is also home to a number of wineries, making it the perfect place to sample some of the local wine.
Gordes
Gordes is a charming small town located in the Provence region of France. The town is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Gordes is home to a number of important historical buildings, including the 12th-century Abbey of Sénanque, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes. Visitors to Gordes can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
Lourmarin
Lourmarin is a small town located in the Provence region of southeastern France. The town is situated amongst vineyards and fields of lavender, and is known for its picturesque streets and buildings. Many of the houses in Lourmarin are built in the traditional Provencal style, with stucco walls and terracotta roofs. The town has a number of historical landmarks, including the Château de Lourmarin, a medieval castle that was once the home of the counts of Provence. Today, the castle serves as a museum and hosts occasional art exhibitions. Lourmarin is also home to the Jean Giono Center, which is dedicated to the French writer who lived in the town for many years. Every summer, the center hosts a literary festival featuring readings, discussions, and other events.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
The first stop on our list of charming small towns in France is the commune of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. This hilltop town is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France, about 20 kilometers northwest of Nice. Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the oldest communes in the country, having been founded way back in the year 990.
This small town has a population of just over 2,000 people, but it packs a big punch when it comes to charm. The winding streets and medieval architecture will make you feel like you've stepped back in time, while the expansive views of the Mediterranean Sea will take your breath away. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as a number of art galleries.
If you're looking for a charming small town to add to your travel itinerary, Saint-Paul-de-Vence should definitely be at the top of your list!
Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Saint-Remy-de-Provence is a small town located in the southeastern part of France. The town is known for its beautiful architecture and charming atmosphere. Saint-Remy is also home to many art galleries, museums, and shops. Visitors can enjoy the town's many restaurants and cafes, as well as its historic sites.
Forcalquier
Forcalquier is a small town located in the Provence region of southeastern France. The town is situated at the base of the Luberon mountain range, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) east of Avignon. Despite its small size, Forcalquier has a long history dating back to Roman times. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination for its Mediterranean climate, picturesque setting, and traditional Provençal culture.
Forcalquier's old town is centered around the Place du Château, a medieval castle that was once the seat of the Lords of Forcalquier. The castle now houses a museum with exhibits on the town's history and culture. Other notable sights in Forcalquier include the 12th-century Romanesque church of Notre-Dame de Romigieux and the 17th-century Baroque church of Saint-Michel.
The market square is a great place to sample some of Forcalquier's local specialties, such as lavender honey and olive oil. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy traditional Provençal cuisine. In addition to its food and history, Forcalquier is also known for its lively musical scene. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including a jazz festival in July and an opera festival in August.
Bonnieux
1. Bonnieux
A small town located in the Luberon region of southern France, Bonnieux is a charming place to visit. With its picturesque setting and stunning views, Bonnieux is a popular destination for tourists. The town is home to a number of historical monuments and buildings, as well as a number of shops and restaurants. Bonnieux is also a good base for exploring the surrounding area, with many hiking and cycling trails in the vicinity.
Menton
Menton is a commune in the Alpes-Maritimes department in southeastern France. The town is located on the French Riviera, just over the border from Italy. It is known for its beautiful gardens, sunny weather, and lemons.
The Old Town of Menton is filled with narrow streets and historic buildings. The baroque Saint-Michel basilica overlooks the town, and the promenade along the seafront is a great place to enjoy the Mediterranean views. Don't miss the marché aux fleurs (flower market), where you can browse stalls selling fresh flowers, plants, and herbs.
If you're looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun, head to Palais Carnoles. This elegant 18th-century palace houses a museum of local history, as well as a stunning garden with fountains, sculptures, and exotic plants. For something truly unique, visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, which features artwork by the famed artist and writer.
Carentan
Carentan is a small town in Normandy, France that is rich in history and charm. The town is located on the banks of the river Seine and is home to a number of historical landmarks. The most notable of these is the Château de Carentan, a 12th-century castle that was once the seat of the dukes of Normandy.
Today, Carentan is a popular tourist destination for its quaint atmosphere and its proximity to the D-Day beaches. The town is also home to a number of excellent restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the French countryside.