There is no doubt that France is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world. With its stunning landscapes, delicious food, and rich history, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to France every year.
While there are endless places to visit in this fantastic country, we’ve put together a list of 20 of the best attractions in Occitanie, one of the most picturesque regions in France. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
1. The Roman Bridge of Millau
The Roman Bridge of Millau is located in the southwest of France, in the town of Millau. The bridge is considered one of the most impressive feats of engineering in the world, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in France.
The bridge spans the River Tarn, and it is 2.46 miles long. It was built between 2001 and 2004, and it is the tallest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,122 feet. The Roman Bridge of Millau is a great place to visit if you are interested in engineering or architecture.
The views from the bridge are stunning, and it is an incredible feat of human achievement. If you are visiting France, make sure to add the Roman Bridge of Millau to your itinerary.
2. The Gorges du Tarn
The Gorges du Tarn is one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in France. Carved out by the Tarn River over millions of years, it is a stunning natural gorge with cliffs and turquoise waters.
Located in the Lozère region of southeastern France, it is well worth a visit if you are ever in the area. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails along the gorge, as well as boat tours that allow you to explore it from the water.
Whether you come for the day or stay for a week, the Gorges du Tarn is sure to leave a lasting impression.
3. The Aveyron Gorges
The Aveyron Gorges is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. The gorge is located in the southern part of the country, and it is known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine river.
Visitors can hike or bike through the gorge, and there are also several campsites and hotels in the area. The Aveyron Gorges is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, and it is also home to several interesting historical sites.
For example, the Château de Peyrelade is a medieval castle that overlooks the gorge, and the village of Saint-Georges-de-Luzençon is known for its traditional houses.
Whether you are looking for breathtaking scenery or want to learn about the history of France, the Aveyron Gorges are sure to disappoint you.
4. The Baronnies Provençales
The Baronnies Provençales is a breathtaking region located in the Occitanie area of southern France. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy its stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and Mediterranean climate.
The Baronnies Provençales is home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, vultures, and wild boars. The region is also famous for its production of lavender and olive oil. In addition to its natural beauty, the Baronnies Provençales is also rich in history.
The region was once part of the Roman Empire, and many of its towns and villages date back to medieval times. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that the Baronnies Provençales is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
5. The Larzac Plateau
The Larzac Plateau is a remarkable geological formation in the south of France. The plateau is a series of stepped cliffs, formed over millions of years by the erosion of soft limestone by wind and rain.
The resulting landscape is one of rugged beauty, with sweeping views across the countryside. Visitors to the Larzac Plateau can explore the many hiking trails that criss-cross the area, or take a stroll through the picturesque villages.
In addition, the plateau is home to some interesting historical sites, including the ruins of a medieval castle and some prehistoric caves. Whether you are looking for an adventurous hike or a peaceful stroll, the Larzac Plateau is an ideal destination.
6. Roquefort-sur-Soulzon Cheese
Roquefort-sur-Soulzon is a commune in the south of France that is home to the famous Roquefort cheese. The cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is known for its strong, pungent flavor.
It is one of the most popular types of cheese in France and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Visitors to Roquefort-sur-Soulzon can tour the caves where the cheese is aged and enjoy samples of the local product.
In addition to its delicious cheese, Roquefort-sur-Soulzon is also home to stunning scenery and rich history. The town is situated in the Occitanie region of France, known for its beautiful landscapes.
It is also home to some well-preserved Roman ruins. As a result, Roquefort-sur-Soulzon makes for an enjoyable and educational visit.
7. Saint-Jean-de-Fos Pottery
Saint-Jean-de-Fos is a small town located in the Occitania region of France. The town is best known for its pottery, which has been produced there for centuries. The pottery of Saint-Jean-de-Fos is characterized by its simple, yet elegant designs.
Visitors to the town can watch the potters at work in their studios, and then purchase their piece of Saint-Jean-de-Fos pottery. In addition to its pottery, Saint-Jean-de-Fos is also home to some charming cafes and restaurants.
The town’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer vacation. Whether you’re interested in pottery or simply looking for a place to relax, Saint-Jean-de-Fos is worth a visit.
8. Notre Dame du Port in Cahors
Notre Dame du Port is a Romanesque church located in the town of Cahors in the Occitanie region of France. The church is notable for its facade, which is decorated with a large rose window and two smaller windows.
The interior of the church is also adorned with several important works of art, including a statue of the Virgin Mary and a painting by the French artist Georges de La Tour.
Notre Dame du Port is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cahors and Occitanie and receives tens of thousands of visitors each year. The church is open to the public every day from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission is free.
9. The Fortified V
illage of Conques
The fortified village of Conques is located in the Occitanie region of France. The village is situated on a hilltop, surrounded by cliffs. It is these cliffs that gave the village its name, as they provided natural protection from invaders.
Today, the village is an important historical site, as it was once a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Visitors to Conques can explore the well-preserved buildings and medieval streets, and visit the 11th-century Abbey of Saint-Foy.
The Abbey houses a reliquary statue of Saint Foy, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Romanesque art in Europe. Conques is well worth a visit for anyone interested in history or French culture.
10. The Dourbie Valley
The Dourbie Valley is located in the Occitanie region of France. It is known for its dramatic landscape, which features cliffs, gorges, and rivers.
The valley is also home to some small villages, each with its unique character. Visitors to the Dourbie Valley can enjoy hiking, climbing, and kayaking in the summer months, and in the winter, the area is popular for skiing and snowboarding.
With its stunning scenery and range of activities on offer, the Dourbie Valley is an ideal destination for a holiday in France.
11. The Vallée du Lot
The Vallée du Lot is a picturesque river valley located in Occitanie, France. The region is renowned for its beautiful scenery, with winding rivers, rolling hills, and ancient castles dotting the landscape.
The Vallée du Lot is also home to some of France’s finest wine country, with vineyards producing award-winning wines. Visitors to the Vallée du Lot can enjoy hiking and biking trails, canoeing and kayaking on the river, and horseback riding through the vineyards.
The region also offers an array of dining and shopping options, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the French countryside.
12. Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a small village located in the Occitanie region of France. The village is built into the side of a cliff and is home to several historical monuments and scenic views.
Rocamadour is also a popular destination for pilgrims, as it is home to the shrine of Saint Amadour. The village is easily accessible by car, and there are some parking options available.
Visitors can also take advantage of the village’s many restaurants and cafes. Rocamadour is an ideal destination for those looking to explore French culture and history.
13. The Gouffre de Padirac
The Gouffre de Padirac is a huge natural cavern located in Occitanie, France. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and for good reason – it’s simply stunning! The cavern is over 300 meters deep, with a large pool of water at the bottom.
Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the cavern, which is full of stalactites and stalagmites. The journey is fascinating and worth taking if you’re visiting Occitanie. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!
14. Périgueux, capital of the Dordogne
Périgueux is the capital of the Dordogne department in southwestern France. It is a beautiful medieval city with a rich history dating back to Roman times.
Visitors to Périgueux can explore the ancient ruins of the Roman forum, stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, and visit the Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Front. The city is also home to some museums and art galleries.
Périgueux is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with numerous hiking and biking trails passing through forests, vineyards, and charming villages.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Périgueux has something to offer everyone.
15. Bergerac, wine capital of the Dordogne
Bergerac is a small town located in the southwestern region of France known as Occitanie. The town is situated on the banks of the Dordogne River and is the capital of the Dordogne department.
Bergerac is most famous for its wine production, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards. The town also has several notable historical attractions, including the 12th-century Abbey of Saint-Pierre and the Château de Commarque, a medieval castle.
Visitors to Bergerac can explore the town’s winding streets and enjoy its many shops, restaurants, and cafes. With its beautiful setting and rich history, Bergerac is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday in France.
16. Sarlat-la-Canéda, medieval city in the Périgord Noir
Bergerac is a small town located in the southwestern region of France known as Occitanie. The town is situated on the banks of the Dordogne River and is the capital of the Dordogne department.
Bergerac is most famous for its wine production, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards. The town also has some notable historical attractions, including the 12th-century Abbey of Saint-Pierre and the Château de Commarque, a medieval castle.
Visitors to Bergerac can explore the town’s winding streets and enjoy its many shops, restaurants, and cafes. With its beautiful setting and rich history, Bergerac is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday in France.
17. Lascaux IV, the most famous prehistoric cave in the world
Lascaux IV is the most famous prehistoric cave in the world. It is located in Occitanie, France. The cave contains over 600 prehistoric paintings that date back to the Paleolithic era. The paintings depict animals, including bison, horses, and deer.
The cave also contains numerous human figures, including handprints and stick figures. Lascaux IV was discovered in 1940 by four teenage boys who were exploring the area. The cave quickly became a major tourist attraction and was closed to the public in 1963 to preserve the paintings.
In 2016, a replica of the cave was opened to the public. The replica allows visitors to experience the cave without damaging the fragile paintings.
18. La Roque-Gageac, one of the most beautiful villages in France
La Roque-Gageac is a picturesque village located in the Occitanie region of France. Nestled into a bend in the Dordogne River, the village is surrounded by towering cliffs and beautiful countryside.
La Roque-Gageac is also home to some of the best preserved medieval houses in France. The village’s proximity to the river and its location in a naturally sheltered valley have helped to keep the houses in good condition over the centuries.
Visitors to La Roque-Gageac can explore the winding streets of the village, visit the ancient houses, and enjoy the stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside. In addition, there are several restaurants and cafes in La Roque-Gageac where visitors can relax and enjoy traditional French cuisine.
With its beautiful setting and well-preserved houses, La Roque-Gageac is one of the most charming and picturesque villages in France.
19. Saint-Émilion, the wine capital of the Gironde
Saint-Émilion is a small town located in the Gironde department of southwestern France. It is best known for its wine production and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is situated on a hillside and surrounded by vineyards.
Its narrow streets and medieval buildings give it a unique charm. Saint-Émilion is also home to several important historical landmarks. Including the 12th-century Church of St. Émilion and the ruins of a 2nd-century Roman villa.
Visitors can explore the town’s many wineries and taste the local wines. They can also enjoy the town’s restaurants, cafes, and shops. Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the French countryside.
20. Bordeaux, the world capital of wine
Bordeaux, the world capital of wine, is located in Occitanie, France. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. Visitors to Bordeaux can explore the city’s many wineries and taste the exquisite wines that the region is famous for.
They can also visit the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Saint-Andre and the Palace of the Popes. In addition, Bordeaux is home to some excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops.
With its idyllic setting and abundance of activities, Bordeaux is an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation or an exciting adventure.
In conclusion
Occitanie is a beautiful region in southwestern France that is home to some of the best attractions in the country. From the charming villages and stunning countryside to the world-famous wine regions, there is something for everyone in Occitanie.
In this article, we’ve highlighted just a few of the many amazing places that you can visit in Occitanie. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to France for an unforgettable vacation!
