Weekend getaways in France beyond Paris: 10 enchanting destinations to explore
France, the land of love and beastly cheeses, is a phenomenal choice for a weekend getaway. It's crammed full of incredible sights, something for everyone, and there's no need to limit yourself to the ultra-famous Paris - though it's lurrve-ly. Here are ten fantastic French cities to explore, each nipping at the heels of its rivals yet offering something unique.
ANNECY
Sweet mother of Marie Antoinette, Annecy is pure, unadulterated beauty from start to finish. Set beside the crystal-clear Lake D'Annecy, it's like stepping into a chocolate-box Alpine town, complete with medieval streets and a mountainous backdrop. Meander through its postcard-perfect canals, visit the ancient Château d'Annecy, and discover Le Palais de l'Île, a castle on an island. If you're visiting at Christmastide, strap yourself in for a festive fairytale, complete with winter markets and storybook projections. In summer, slip on a SUP and paddle aboard the lake or tackle some alpine hikes. Annecy is the bee's knees, no doubts.
DAY TRIP: If you fancy even more of that beautiful mountain life, head higher to ski or hike in the surrounding Alps. If you're a fine art nut, jump in the car for an 80-minute spin to Grenoble to check out the well-stocked Museè de Grenoble.
GETTING THERE: The nearest airport is Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc, with regional UK flights. Alternatively, grab the TGV from Paris - probably best to add an hour with a change in Lyon.
BORDEAUX
You'll often hear Bordeaux called "Little Paris," but don't let that put you off. This city packs in a bunch of terrific things to do - it'd be rude not to drop in. First off, it's a hallowed land for wine - gulp. Not only that, but it's ridiculously good-looking, featuring columned opera houses, castle-like fortress gates, and a beautiful cathedral that's UNESCO-approved. The art scene ranges from classic to contemporary, with a former submarine base now serving as an open-air gallery for immersive exhibitions.
DAY TRIP: Don't spend all your time in the city, novel though it may be. Stay an extra day to visit the celebrated wine regions (St Emilion, Medoc, Margaux, Sauternes) on a tour.
GETTING THERE: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport has regular connections to Europe, Turkey, North Africa, and beyond. The fastest TGV from Paris takes a smidge over two hours.
CARCASSONNE
Carcassonne is about as medieval as medieval towns come, wrapped up in a gorgeous fortress of towers. Thanks to a massive restoration program in the 19th century, it's as if you've stepped back in time. Wander through the charming old streets, stop for some good ol' cassoulet at a local restaurant, and ogle the beautiful architecture.
DAY TRIP: Catch the train to the nearest big cheese, Toulouse, in just 45 minutes for the finest French city vibes. Another option is exploring the stunning Canal du Midi.
GETTING THERE: Carcassonne Airport has many regional UK and Ireland flights and limited European connections. The Toulouse Airport is an alternative, with trains from the city taking around 45 minutes. The train from Paris takes about six hours.
COLMAR
Colmar's not your run-of-the-mill French city - it's decked out in the cutest, most charming jumble of half-timbered houses that flank vibrant canals (one area is dubbed Little Venice). These picturesque little streets will have your phone snapping pics like a kid at a candy store. You'll find barrels of Alsace's notable floral wines, hearty dishes like choucroute, and the usual suspects of fantastic French food.
DAY TRIP: Explore the photogenic town of Strasbourg, a quick train journey away. For a change of scenery, leap across the border to check out Germany (Freiburg) or Switzerland (Basel). The Alsace wine region is also a noteworthy wander.
GETTING THERE: Strasbourg and Basel's EuroAirport are around 45 minutes from Colmar by train. The TGV from Paris takes 2.5 hours, though slower connecting services are more common.
ANGERS
Angers is one of the jewels of the Loire Valley, positioned by the River Maine and providing a perfect base for exploring the vineyards, château, and charming villages that the Loire is famed for. And if you're not bothered about wandering off, Angers has plenty on tap. The hulking 17-tower fortress, Château d'Angers, containing the 100-meter long Apocalypse Tapestry, is one big sight. As well, there are a bunch of art museums, including the massive sculpture collection of David d'Angers displayed in a creepy, roofless cathedral.
DAY TRIP: Head out to famous chateaus like Chaîne de Chenonceau, a bone-chiller, as it's creepily built on a canal. For something different but cool, explore the Troglodyte caves, essentially underground villages from the 19th century. I slept in one for me birthday just recently.
GETTING THERE: Nantes Atlantique Airport is the closest (about 40 minutes by train), with regular UK and European connections. The TGV from Paris takes 90 minutes, while arriving flight-free from London with the Eurostar is possible.
MARSEILLE
For a weekend break in France with sizzle and sun, look no further than Marseille. Forget anything negative you've heard about this once-gritty port city - give it a chance 'cos it's impressive. It's been over a decade since Marseille hosted the title of a European Capital of Culture, and since then, new galleries, revamped public spaces, and an evolving culinary scene have given this southern coastal city a bit of class while keeping its grittiness.
You can easily pack a lot into your Marseille weekend, including cultural activities (like clambering up to the Basilica and Cathedral for a panoramic view, or taking a stroll through the Le Panier neighborhood), or just chill on the Med with a drink, enjoy some local eats, or hit the beach when the weather's warm.
DAY TRIP: You're spoiled for choice. You're just a short hop from beaches, or head inland to visit elegant Aix-en-Provence. If the weather's ace, head to the striking Verdon Gorge (around 2 hours by car).
GETTING THERE: Marseille Provence Airport has plentiful European, North African, and some Asian routes. The fastest TGV from Paris takes 3.5 hours, but arriving flight-free from London with the Eurostar is possible - but it's much longer.
LYON
Lyon is the bomb for foodies. It's one of Europe's finest cities for noshing, offering everything from traditional Lyonese cuisine in bouchons (complete with sausages) to futuristic fusion menus. When you're not shoveling deliciousness into your pie-hole, check out the many cultural activities jam-packed into this third-largest city, including strolling through the picturesque Old Town or climbing the Fourvière Hill to take in the stunning views of Roman amphitheatres and iconic architecture.
DAY TRIP: Take a wine tasting tour in the Rhône Valley, where this is some of the swooniest, most expensive wine lands in the land. I used to visit during my previous job as a restaurant manager - it was all kinds of fancy.
GETTING THERE: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is a major hub with regional UK connections and services across Europe and North Africa. The fastest TGV from Paris takes 2 hours, so arriving flight-free from London with the Eurostar is possible.
NANTES
Nantes is one of Europe's most underrated cities. It's got a delightful mix of old architecture and modern energy. Two of the creative brains behind this quirky French city are François Delaroziere and Pierre Oréfice, who created the Machines de l'Île, a collection of giant, mechanical, moving animal machines. There's plenty more art and innovation to be found as well, making year-round visits a real treat.
DAY TRIP: Take a train ride to Saint-Nazaire for beaches, or head inland to commune with the spirit of Jean-Paul Sartre (legendary French philosopher) in the intellectually rich university town of Rennes.
GETTING THERE: Nantes Atlantique Airport only has domestic connections but is close to Rennes Airport, less than an hour away by train. The fastest TGV from Paris takes 1.5 hours.
CAEN
Hear ye, hear ye, Brits! Caen is a top pick for short breaks in France as you've got the ferry adventure to boot. It's William the Conqueror's hometown and surrounded by attractions - beaches, castles, and charming countryside included. Spend your time exploring the city, which combines medieval architecture with the modern vibe of a university town, before venturing out to historical sights such as the famed Bayeux Tapestry (30 minutes' drive), pretty coastal towns like Honfleur and Deauville, or head to Mont Saint-Michel (90 minutes by bus).
DAY TRIP: During the summer, visit the funky Mento for the Fête du Citron, an annual festival where the locals celebrate lemons in all manner of ways.
GETTING THERE: Caen Airport has domestic flights, while the TGV from Paris takes 2 hours. You might want to take the ferry from Portsmouth and wake up refreshed in Caen in the morning.
NICE
Ahh, Nice. The original French Riviera darling has long been a favorite for weekend trips. What's not to love about a city that delivers a balmy Mediterranean ambiance, sun-drenched days, splashy restaurants, and colorful streets? Get ready to soak it all up with a stroll through the narrow alleyways of Vieux Nice, a wander along the sea-facing Promenade des Anglais, or a lazy time-out at one of the cafes. If you're in during winter, head inside to some of the fantastic art museums - there's plenty to keep you busy while you're hiding from the rain.
DAY TRIP: If you fancy living like a star, make the 40-minute journey to blingy Cannes (of film festival fame) or jet-set playground Monaco, one of Europe's smallest countries. If you're in town in February, the Menton Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) will have your eyes poppin' with citrus-y creations.
GETTING THERE: Nice is a major airport with regular flights from the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. The fastest TGV from Paris takes about 6 hours. There's also a slightly lengthier night train, which could be a good option for a flight-free, Eurostar-friendly jaunt.
LIFESTYLE
The laid-back yet culturally rich lifestyle of Annecy offers a SUP adventure on the crystal-clear Lake D'Annecy or Alpine hikes during the day, and a festive fairytale winter market experience at Christmastide.
TRAVEL
For travel enthusiasts, taking a day trip from Bordeaux to explore the famous wine regions (St Emilion, Medoc, Margaux, Sauternes) is an unmissable experience for wine aficionados.
