Paris is undeniably one of my favorite cities in the world, but I can assure you that beyond the city of love, there are countless other enchanting places to explore in France. From cities nestled within the Alps to charming towns along the borders of Switzerland and Germany, each offering its own unique culture and charm. Let’s not forget the South of France, with its stunning beach towns, is a whole world of its own.

Similar: Perfect 5 Day Itinerary in Paris

France is a land of diverse landscapes, rich traditions, and exceptional cuisine, and there’s so much more to discover beyond Paris. Let me take you through some other cities that are definitely worth adding to your itinerary on your next trip to France.

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Annecy, France: 

Annecy, in my opinion, is one of France’s hidden gems. This charming town makes for the perfect home base if you’re planning to explore the French Alps and have hiking on your itinerary. However, if hiking isn’t your thing, Annecy is also ideal for enjoying a laid-back atmosphere in the old town. Spend your days lounging along the lake at “beach clubs,” then end your day savoring delicious French cuisine.

Learn more about hiking the French Alps

While Annecy itself is a smaller city, it’s ideally located near some of the most famous French Alpine destinations, such as Chamonix and Alpe d’Huez, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences of being on top of the world.

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Nice, France:

Nice, located in the South of France, is a vibrant destination known for its lively atmosphere, luxury yet affordable beach clubs, exquisite cuisine, and being a perfect base for exploring the nearby coastal villages and countries!

We stayed in Old Nice, which I highly recommend exploring during your visit. This area is home to fresh food markets, vintage shops, bars, and restaurants, offering everything you need. It’s a charming and lively part of the city, rich in history and local flavor.

Learn more about the South of France

Old Nice is also conveniently located near the beach, where you can walk along the promenade, taking in views of the beach clubs that line the rocky shoreline (while there are no sandy beaches here, the crystal-clear waters are absolutely worth it).

Did I mention the food? Between the food markets, local restaurants, and window-side service, you’ll find mouth-watering savory and sweet crepes, fresh seafood, and creamy gelato. 

During our time in Nice, we spent our days lounging at the public beach, hiking up to Colline du Château for breathtaking views of the city and nearby port with luxury yachts, admiring the Nice Cathedral, exploring Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, strolling through Place Masséna, and taking memorable day trips to Monaco and Ventimiglia.

During our recent visit to Nice, we took on the Cap de Nice coastal hike, a scenic trail that winds along the French Riviera from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer. This easy, laid-back hike treats you to nonstop coastal views and leads to two hidden swimming spots that are perfect for a refreshing dip. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city with breathtaking seaside scenery, this trail is a must. Click HERE for more details about the hike.

Nice tops my recommendation list for a visit, especially as an affordable alternative to the rest of the South of France.

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Colmar, France: 

I cannot say enough good things about Colmar. I visited this enchanting city both in the winter and summer, and each time, I was mesmerized by its charm. Located in the Alsace region, Colmar features a distinctive architectural style that blends Swiss chalets, German woodwork, and a unique touch of stone, giving the town its own magical character.

As you wander through the streets, you’ll likely spot storks and stork-inspired designs, as the stork is the region’s mascot. It’s a charming touch that adds to the town’s fairytale atmosphere. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to remember Alsace, I highly recommend finding something featuring this lovely bird!

The city exudes a fairytale atmosphere as you stroll through its quaint streets lined with colorful houses. A river runs through Colmar, and in the summertime, it’s lined with fresh, blooming flowers, further enhancing the already vibrant town.

One of Colmar’s most famous spots is La Petite Venise, a picturesque street where colorful houses line the river. Not far from here, you’ll find the Fishmonger District, another dreamy area that feels just as magical.

Be sure to visit the Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar, an old and beautiful Catholic church that is worth stepping inside to admire its architectural beauty.

Colmar is full of authentic Alsace restaurants, unique gift shops, and stunning sights that make it an unforgettable destination.

Bonus: If you’re traveling by car, take a short trip to Riquewihr, a less touristy town that’s very similar to Colmar, but just as picturesque!

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Mulhouse, France:

Mulhouse is a city that beautifully sits near the borders of Switzerland and Germany, offering a fascinating blend of cultures from all three countries. The architecture here is reminiscent of Colmar, with Swiss chalet-style houses adding a unique touch to the city’s design, giving it a charming and distinct vibe.

The cuisine in Mulhouse is a treat for the senses. At Pâtissier Chocolatier Dany Husser, you’ll not only find delectable chocolates but also mouth watering pastries that will leave you craving more.

Though my time in Mulhouse was brief—just passing through while Alberto took his exam—we made the most of it by enjoying delicious baked goods and visiting some lovely spots. Mulhouse, being larger than Colmar, offers a wider range of shops, but you can still enjoy the authentic Alsace charm and delicious food that the region is known for.

One must-try dish in Mulhouse is Flammkuchen, a traditional Alsace treat. Imagine a thin-crust pizza, but elevated with better flavors. It’s truly a local delicacy!

If you’re seeking a specific attraction, be sure to stop by Temple Saint-Étienne. The church’s gothic exterior is striking, and stepping inside, you’ll be able to take in its massive, awe-inspiring atmosphere. It’s a beautiful place to admire both from the outside and within.

Mulhouse also offers several museums, though we didn’t have time to visit them, here are a few that are worth checking out:

• Musée de l’Impression sur étoffes (Museum of Textile Printing)
• Musée National de l’Automobile (National Automobile Museum)
• Cité du Train (Train Museum)

Mulhouse offers a great blend of culture, food, and attractions, making it a great stop when exploring the Alsace region.

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Strasbourg, France:

I was pleasantly surprised by Strasbourg, a charming city I didn’t know much about before visiting. Located along the German border, north of Colmar and Mulhouse, this quaint town was once part of Alsace but is now considered part of the Grand Est region.

The city features the classic Alsace architecture, with its distinctive half-timbered houses and winding streets, reminding me a lot of Colmar. The river that cuts through the city adds to its picturesque beauty, with the charming houses lining the water.

I visited Strasbourg in the winter, and even under the gloomy skies, the vibrant colors of the houses lit up the streets, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the most enchanting surprises was stumbling upon the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg. It’s an absolute must-see. The cathedral’s exterior is impressive, but stepping inside takes your breath away. The vastness and beauty of the space is something I will never forget. There’s something special about sitting in these historic cathedrals and absorbing the centuries of history that fill the air. It’s an experience I continue to cherish each time I visit a new city.

The city center, where the cathedral is located, is an island surrounded by the river. Wandering the streets here is a delight, whether it’s walking along the river, crossing bridges, or window shopping in boulangeries and local shops.

The pastries in Strasbourg were also unforgettable. We enjoyed a relaxing coffee by the river, accompanied by a fluffy pastry filled with chocolate and dusted with powdered sugar.

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Overall:

Whether you’re craving mountain air, colorful towns, or sun-soaked beaches, France offers so much more than sjust Paris. Each of these cities left a lasting impression on me, and I hope they find a spot on your travel list too. Wherever you end up, I know you’ll find something magical, just like I did.