4 of Our Favorite French Destinations

From 19th-century aristocrats embarking on the Grand Tour of Europe to modern-day jetsetters in search of high fashion, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking beauty, France has long enticed travelers as a sought-after vacation destination. Below, we’ve highlighted a few of our favorite French cities, whether you’re in the mood for wine-tasting, croissants, fine art—or a little bit of everything.

Provence


A predominately mountainous landscape dotted with lavender fields and sun-drenched wineries, Provence is a quaint and picturesque region that deserves a priority spot on your bucket list. For centuries, Provence has captivated the imaginations of writers, thinkers, and artists like Van Gogh and Picasso—the latter of whom created some of the world’s most famous paintings inspired by the beauty of the region. Enjoy a sky-high perspective from a hot air balloon as you float over fields of fragrant lavender and brilliant sunflowers. Step back in time while browsing local produce at an open-air market in the hilltop villages of Gordes and Bonnieux. Or, do as the locals do and simply unwind with a café crème and a croissant at an outdoor cafe.

Mougins


Mougins
is a charming seaside village in the heart of the French Riviera, rife with Michelin-starred restaurants, leafy parks, and historic sites within the medieval walled city known as the Old Village. A warm day calls for snorkeling through crystal-clear waters at nearby Plage du Ponteil, followed by a delicious date night at one of the city’s famed eateries. If you’re intrigued by the glamour of the French Riviera, plan a visit during the Cannes Film Festival (typically held in May) to spot celebrities and see the coastal towns at their finest.

Bordeaux


A playground for the wine connoisseur, Bordeaux is one the world’s premier wine regions, carpeted with vineyards known for their merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc varietals. As you swirl, sniff, and sip your way through town, be sure to chat up French citizens—who vacation in Bordeaux themselves—and leave plenty of time to taste the region’s signature southwestern French cuisine. Biking is a popular way to explore the city and sample its wine, hassle free. Nearby, Saint-Émilion entices history buffs with its medieval church and underground catacombs, as well as historic chateaux.

Paris


It’s an internationally beloved city for a reason. Paris’s top-notch global reputation is rightfully earned, thanks to its surplus of art galleries and acclaimed museums as well as first-rate restaurants and incredible stores—one reason for its enduring reign as the fashion capital of the world. Stroll through the Louvre in search of da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” picnic in the quiet corners of the Luxembourg Gardens, and enjoy a sweet La Maison de la Truffe treat as you watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle after sunset.