13 Underrated Destinations In France For 2024

1. Cancale, Brittany

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Cancale is probably not a new name for those who enjoy seafood, yet it remains to be an underrated destination.

Cancale has been inhabited by humans since the Middle Palaeolithic era, and it has become famous for its seafood, especially its wild flat oysters. With its proximity to the water, the city now relies heavily on tourism.

Cancale is known for its excellent cuisine and its beautiful ancient harbor, Pointe du Groin (a spot of great natural beauty that is best-scene after sunset).

The city is also conveniently located for day trips to other popular destinations along the Northern French coast, such as Saint-Malo, Dinan, and even Mont Saint Michel.

2. Menton, Cote d’Azur

One of the most vibrant and colorful places to visit in France is Menton, which is located not far from the border with Italy. This little village of 30,000 people is one of the most under appreciated gems that France has to offer.

Menton may not be as well-known as Nice or Cannes, but it has nonetheless developed into one of the most popular tourist destinations along the Côte d’Azur.

This is an ideal destination for a multi-day vacation or a day trip given its proximity to the Nice Airport (which is only fifty minutes away by car).

3. Cévennes National Park

Lozère, in the south of France, Cévennes National Park is home to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that serves as living proof that there is more to France than just the French Riviera.

Aven Armand, a limestone cave and the Gorges Du Tarn are just two of the natural treasures that can be found in this national park.

You may also get your fill of French greenery on foot thanks to the park’s many walking pathways and routes, but you can also drive through the park if you like. Located in the shadow of the Gorge is the picturesque village of La Malène.

Another beautiful village is Castelbouc, carved into the rock of the Gorge, and Sainte-Enimie. Here, you can rent kayaks or canoes and paddle down the river, which is also well worth a visit.

4. Angers, Loire Valley

Located in the middle of the Loire Valley, the beautiful city of Angers is sometimes overlooked in favor of more well-known cities like Nantes and Tours.

However, you shouldn’t miss out on the many cultural and historical sights found here. Angers is known for its rich cultural scene, which includes various museums, galleries, and theaters to visit.

You must see the world-famous tapestries representing the account of the Apocalypse from John’s Book of Revelation.

This is inside the Château d’Angers, a stronghold built in the 9th century. This is also one of France’s most charming and often overlooked urban centers is Angers.

Nearby vineyards give some wonderful wines from France’s famed Loire Valley region, while the old town’s picturesque half-timbered homes line narrow cobblestone alleys full of busy markets.

5. Estérel Massif, Golden Island – Var

The Var department is home to the stunning Massif de l’Esterel, where nature’s beauty takes your breath away.

One of those underrated destinations in France, this volcanic mountain range is among France’s most remarkable wonders.

Experience some of the region’s most magnificent beaches, considered to be among the Côte d’Azu’s finest, during your visit.

All-year-round basking in glorious sunshine, the Var area is home to authentic and picturesque gems. Saint-Raphaël and Sainte-Maxime are two noteworthy destinations that guarantee immersive views.

To enjoy the breathtaking beauty offered by these landscapes, hitting the trails on a scenic hike is a must-do. While navigating the lush terrain, keep an eye out for the majestic deer, turtles, and wild boar that reside in these territories.

6. Eze, Cote d’Azur

The Bridge, Èze, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

The village of Eze is situated a short distance from the world-famous city of Nice. Eze is not only one of the most picturesque in France but also one of the underrated destinations in France.

Eze is a hamlet that dates back to the 13th century and is perched on a rocky summit overlooking the Mediterranean.

Here, you’ll see the natural splendor of the surroundings as well as the genuine charm of this quaint little village and its well-preserved medieval architecture.

7. Eguisheim, Alsace

Although Colmar is more well-known, you should not miss Eguisheim, another of Alsace’s German-influenced villages.

The medieval courtyards, cobblestone lanes, and colorful Swiss-German architecture of Eguisheim make it a fantastic destination, yet it remains underrated.

Visit the three castle towers atop Schlossberg Hill for a breathtaking view of the village below. There are numerous wine taverns, tasting rooms, and underground cellars in Eguisheim.

There are also many gorgeous vineyards and estates in the neighborhood that are open for tours and tastings.

8. Nancy, Grand Est

Nancy is the place to go if you want to experience the best of France without the crowds. This city is underrated yet it has a lot going on and provides visitors with a genuine taste of France. Nancy is known for its delicious cuisine and beautiful buildings.

While here, spend some time in the old town, which is home to several impressive structures including the Place Stanislas and the Palais du Gouvernement.

Nancy is a great place to go sightseeing because it has everything from charming, narrow streets to grand, imposing buildings. The beautiful city is also well-known for its abundance of Art Nouveau buildings.

9. Dune du Pilat, Arcachon, Occitania

The Pilat Dune, at 106 m tall and 600 m in length, is the largest in all of Europe. The most striking thing about it is not its size, but rather its location in the middle of a stunning pine grove.

The basin of Arcachon, renowned for its oysters, can be reached by descending to its foot. The French architect and designer Philippe Starck recently updated the restaurant “La Coorniche,” which is conveniently located near the dunes.

The five-star Hotel “La Coorniche” offers the finest rates, and you can book your accommodation with them as well.

10. Poitiers, Nouvelle Aquitaine

Poitiers is a World Heritage site located about two hours by train from Paris and is close to the Loire Valley. It has a prime spot on the ancient pilgrimage road to Saint-Jacques known as the Via Turonensis.

The Romanesque art of Poitiers has not been damaged by the lack of visitors. Saint Peter’s Cathedral and Baptistère Saint-Jean, both built in the 12th century, are worth seeing while you’re in town.

Visit the Parc de Blossac, with its broad boulevards, colorful flower beds, and pathway down to the river. Poitiers is also a great base from which to explore the lesser-known regions of France.

11. Rocamadour, Dordogne

If you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to add the Dordogne Valley to your itinerary! This picturesque region is a beloved destination for travelers from all over the world. With its charming villages, stunning landscapes, and rich history, the Dordogne Valley offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re interested in exploring medieval castles, sampling delicious local cuisine, or simply taking in Experience the enchanting beauty of Rocamadour, Carennac, Colonges-la-Rouge, and Meyronne – four charming villages that will steal your heart away.

Indulge in the finest French cuisine and savor exceptional wines during your stay. Not only is the Dordogne Valley a feast for the stomach, but it also offers a banquet for the soul.

12. La Rochelle, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Do you have any plans to visit La Rochelle anytime soon? You shouldn’t miss La Rochelle, a French city on the Atlantic coast. It is known for its scenic beaches, gorgeous buildings, and laid-back vibe.

The city’s antique buildings, bridges, and streets all add to its old-world appeal.

There are many historical structures and monuments to see in La Rochelle, from the 14th-century Tour de la Lanterne to the 17th-century Porte Royale. Numerous museums and art galleries present the city’s rich history to visitors.

La Rochelle is a great city for nature lovers, with miles of beautiful coastline pathways perfect for hiking and other water sports like sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.

More fascinating outdoor activities, including biking trips, bird watching, and horseback riding, may be found on the adjacent Ile de Ré.

13. Saumur, Pays-de-la-Loire

Saumur, a beautiful city in the northwest of France on the banks of the Loire River, has a lot going for it.

It is one of the undervalued places in France that’s ideal for a few days of 9 due to its ancient Old Town, an abundance of things to see and do, and proximity to vineyards.

The village of Saumur is dominated by the soaring, conical turrets of the legendary Chateau de Saumur. The castle was expanded from its original fortifications in the 13th century to become a major tourist attraction in the Loire Valley.

The Museum of Decorative Arts is located on the ground floor, showcasing Middle Ages and Renaissance-era tapestries, furniture, paintings, and ceramics.

Half-timbered buildings with crisscrossed motifs on the front facades date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and may be found in Saumur’s historic Old Town.

There are numerous plazas where you may rest and have a bite to eat, and you can spend hours wandering the narrow streets, which are lined with unique stores and curios. Don’t miss out on the fresh food in the daily markets every day but Tuesday and Wednesday.

Christine Rogador

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.