If you’re looking for a French vacation that’s a little off the beaten path, consider one of these 15 destinations. From charming small towns to gorgeous natural areas, these places offer a refreshing change of pace from the country’s more popular tourist spots. And best of all, they’re relatively uncrowded, so you can enjoy all that France has to offer without having to deal with large crowds.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and authentic French experience, be sure to check out one of these lesser-known destinations. Bon, voyage!
1. Le Puy-en-Velay
Le Puy-en-Velay is a small city located in the Haute-Loire department of south-central France. It is perhaps best known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. But while the cathedral draws visitors from all over the world, Le Puy-en-Velay is far from being a tourist hotspot.
In fact, it is one of the least visited cities in France, with only about 200,000 visitors each year. That makes it all the more appealing for travelers who are looking to avoid crowds. The city is also home to a number of other points of interest, including a 12th-century castle and a lovely botanical garden.
With its combination of history and beauty, Le Puy-en-Velay is well worth a visit for any traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination in France.
Here’s the map for Le Puy-en-Velay, click here.
2. Menton
Menton is a charming French Riviera town just a short train ride from Monaco and Nice. Though not as famous as these two glitzy neighbors, Menton has plenty to offer visitors. The old town is a warren of narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses, while the waterfront promenade is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon.
For those looking to escape the crowds, there are several quiet beaches nearby, as well as the pretty Jardin Botanique de la Serre de la Madone. With its Mediterranean atmosphere and slower pace of life, Menton is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the French Riviera.
Here’s the map for Menton, click here.
3. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
While many tourists flock to destinations such as Paris and the French Riviera, there are plenty of other places to see in France that are far less crowded. One such destination is the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Nestled in the hills of Provence, this picturesque town is known for its medieval fortifications and winding streets lined with art galleries and cafes.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Provençal cuisine, explore the local market, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this charming village. With its abundance of hidden gems, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a great place to escape the crowds and experience all that France has to offer.
Here’s the map for Saint-Paul-de-Vence, click here.
4. Èze
If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds on your next trip to France, head to the town of Èze. Perched atop a rocky outcropping overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Èze is a nature lover’s paradise. The town is home to a variety of gardens, including the Jardin Exotique d’Èze, which features cacti and other rare plants from around the world.
There are also several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding hills, offering stunning views of the coast. And for history buffs, Èze is home to the ruins of a 12th-century castle. With its breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Èze is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the simple things in life.
Here’s the map for Èze, click here.
5. Cassis
Cassis a small fishing village located on the Mediterranean coast. Although it doesn’t have the same glamour as its larger counterparts, Cassis is a charming place with a laid-back atmosphere. The village is surrounded by picturesque cliffs, and there are several lovely beaches nearby.
There is also an excellent selection of restaurants, offering fresh seafood and other local specialties. If you’re looking for a less crowded destination in France, Cassis definitely worth considering.
Here’s the map for Cassis, click here.
6. Porquerolles Island
Though often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Porquerolles Island is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean Sea. This small island off the coast of France is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its quiet beaches, quaint shops, and picturesque harbor, Porquerolles offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise. While Porquerolles may not be as well-known as other destinations in France, its beauty and tranquility make it worth a visit.
Here’s the map for Porquerolles Island, click here.
7. Cap Ferret
Cap Ferret is a beautiful, lesser-known destination in France that is perfect for those looking to avoid tourist crowds. The peninsula is home to stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and quaint villages. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Cap Ferret is also a great place to enjoy fresh seafood. The area is known for its oysters, which can be enjoyed at one of the many seafood restaurants. With its incredible scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Cap Ferret is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist-filled destinations.
Here’s the map for Cap Ferret, click here.
8. Collioure
Collioure is often considered one of the hidden gems of France. While it may not be as well-known as some of the country’s other destinations, it offers visitors a chance to experience the true charm of the French Riviera. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Collioure is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and delicious seafood.
The town is also home to a number of art galleries and museums, making it the perfect place for culture lovers. With its idyllic setting and rich history, Collioure is a great option for those looking to escape the crowds of more popular French destinations.
Here’s the map for Collioure, click here.
9. Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is a commune located on the French Riviera in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France. It is a popular resort town with a Mediterranean climate and culture. The town’s port is the place where A-listers and jet-setters dock their yachts, but there’s more to Saint-Tropez than just celebrities and luxury.
The town has a fascinating history dating back to the Roman Empire, and its Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and hidden courtyards lined with cafes, bars, and boutiques. The beaches around Saint-Tropez are some of the best in France, and the town’s nightlife is legendary. However, Saint-Tropez is not immune to the tourist crowds that descend on the Riviera each summer.
If you’re looking to avoid the masses, head to one of the quieter beaches or take a stroll through the vineyards outside of town. With a little planning, you can enjoy all that Saint-Tropez has to offer without spending your vacation elbow-to-elbow with other tourists.
Here’s the map for Saint-Tropez, click here.
10. Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a charming seaside town located in the southwest of France, near the border with Spain. The town has a long history as a fishing port and later as a popular resort destination, and it remains an attractive place to visit today. Although Saint-Jean-de-Luz is not as well known as some other French towns, it is worth seeking out for its beautiful setting, laid-back atmosphere, and lack of tourist crowds.
The town is located on the Bay of Biscay, with sandy beaches and a promenade that is perfect for strolling or relaxing in the sun. There are also several good restaurants serving fresh seafood, as well as plenty of cafes and bars where you can enjoy a glass of wine or coffee while people watching. If you are looking for a destination in France that is off the beaten path, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is definitely worth a visit.
Here’s the map for Saint-Jean-de-Luz, click here.
11. Biarritz
Biarritz is a small town located in the Basque region of France. It is well-known for its surfing, spectacular coastline, and unique architecture. However, Biarritz is often overlooked by tourists in favor of other, more popular destinations in France. This is a shame, as Biarritz has much to offer visitors.
The town has a long history dating back to the days of the Roman Empire, and its culture is very different from the rest of France. In addition, Biarritz offers some of the best surfing in Europe and is home to many beautiful beaches. So if you are looking for a destination in France that is less crowded and more authentic, Biarritz is definitely worth considering.
Here’s the map for Biarritz, click here.
12. Hossegor
Hossegor is a beautiful town located in southwestern France. It is known for its surfing beaches, its opulent french villas, and its lively nightlife. Despite its many charms, Hossegor is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more popular destinations such as Paris and Nice.
This is a shame, as Hossegor has much to offer visitors. In addition to its beaches and nightlife, the town also boasts a number of excellent restaurants, lively cafes, and boutique shops. Moreover, Hossegor is located in close proximity to a number of other interesting towns and cities, such as Bayonne and Biarritz. So if you’re looking for a destination in France that is off the beaten path, Hossegor is definitely worth considering.
Here’s the map for Hossegor, click here.
13. Landes Forest
Landes forest is one of the lesser known tourist destinations in France, but it is no less beautiful or worth visiting. The forest is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, as well as several picturesque lakes. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or even on horseback.
In addition, there are a number of charming villages located nearby, where visitors can enjoy traditional French cuisine and wine. With its stunning scenery and relatively uncrowded beaches, Landes Forest is an ideal destination for those seeking a more relaxed holiday experience.
Here’s the map for Landes Forest, click here.
14. The Camargue
Situated in the Riviera, The Camargue is a lesser-known destination in France that offers visitors a chance to experience a different side of the country. With its sprawling marshes and lush Mediterranean vegetation, The Camargue is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Paris or the crowded beaches of the Riviera.
Instead, visitors can enjoy a slow pace of life as they explore the numerous hiking and biking trails, take part in traditional bullfights, or simply relax on one of the many secluded beaches. While The Camargue may not be as well-known as some of France’s other destinations, it provides visitors with an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Here’s the map for The Camargue, click here.
15. Corsica
Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea and one of the 18 regions of France. It is located southeast of the French mainland, west of Italy, and northeast of Sardinia. The island has an area of 8,718 square kilometers (3,368 square miles) and a population of 322,120 (as of January 1, 2016).
The capital and largest city are Ajaccio, with a population of 61,880. Corsica is famous for its rugged mountains, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches. It is also home to a number of important archaeological sites.
Despite its many attractions, Corsica remains relatively unknown to international tourists. This is perhaps due to its isolated location and lack of direct air links from major airports. However, those who do make the effort to travel to Corsica are rewarded with a truly unique experience.
Here’s the map for Corsica, click here.
In conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique and authentic French experience, be sure to check out one of these lesser-known destinations. From charming small towns to gorgeous natural areas, these places offer a refreshing change of pace from the country’s more popular tourist spots. And best of all, they’re relatively uncrowded, so you can enjoy all that France has to offer without having to deal with large crowds. Bon, voyage!
