10 Underrated Cities in France That Are Full of Charm and Culture (But Not Crowds)

France is known for its iconic cities and bucket-list destinations, from Paris to Bordeaux to Nice. But beyond these famous spots, the country is full of lesser-known cities that let you escape the heavy crowds and see a different side of France. Here are ten of my favorite French cities to add to your list.

Albi

Albi, in southern France’s Occitanie region, stands out for its striking red-brick architecture and fascinating medieval heritage. Sainte-Cécile Cathedral dominates the city, an enormous Gothic structure whose painted ceilings and ornate details are incredible to see up close. Just beside it, the Musée Toulouse-Lautrec displays works by the artist in the former archbishop’s palace, while the views from the Jardins du Palais and Pont Vieux highlight just how beautiful this riverside city is.

Lille

Lille, near the French-Belgian border, blends French and Flemish influences in everything from its food to its architecture. The Old Lille district is full of red and gold brick townhouses and ornate facades that give the city a distinct charm. Highlights include the lively Grand Place, the ornate Old Stock Exchange where vendors sell vintage books and posters, and the towering Hôtel de Ville belfry – part of a UNESCO-listed group of Flemish bell towers.

Rouen

Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is known for its more than 2,000 half-timbered houses, impressive Gothic churches, and deep ties to Joan of Arc. You can learn about her imprisonment and trial at the Jeanne d’Arc Historial, or visit the spot where she was burned at the stake at the Place du Vieux Marché. Landmarks like the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen and the nearby Gros Horloge are some of the city’s most recognizable and beautiful spots to visit.

Perpignan

Perpignan, the southernmost city in mainland France, sits just above the Spanish border and blends French and Catalan culture in a way that feels totally unique. The city’s colorful buildings and palm-lined boulevards give it a sun-soaked, Mediterranean character. Top spots include the 13th-century Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Castillet city gate, and the ornate Hôtel Pams mansion with its Art Nouveau details.

Lyon

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s full of charm and interesting things to do. Set at the meeting of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, the city is home to the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon, the hilltop Basilica of Fourvière with its sweeping views, and a long legacy of silk production. It’s also France’s gastronomic capital, known for its traditional bouchons and incredible food culture.

Amiens

Amiens, in northern France’s Picardie region, just might be the most overlooked city on this list. Its centerpiece is the towering Notre Dame d’Amiens, France’s largest Gothic cathedral, with intricate carvings and a stunning summer light show. Other highlights include the hortillonages, a sprawling area of lush floating gardens connected by canals, or the Maison Jules Verne, which gives a glimpse into the imaginative world of the “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” author.

Menton

Menton, at the far eastern edge of the French Riviera near the Italian border, is a picturesque seaside town often called the “Pearl of France.” Its pastel houses cascade down the hillside toward the sea, ending at the Plage des Sablettes beach, with the golden-toned Basilique Saint-Michel Archange crowning the Old Town. The city is also famous for its Lemon Festival each February and its numerous, lush gardens.

Annecy

Annecy, in the Haute-Savoie region near the Swiss border, is famous for its location on the turquoise Lake Annecy surrounded by the Alps. The Old Town’s narrow canals and flower-draped bridges make it one of France’s most picturesque cities. Don’t miss the Palais de l’Ile in the Thiou Canal or the lakeside promenade for postcard-worthy mountain views.

Honfleur

Honfleur, where the Seine meets the English Channel in Normandy, is a postcard-perfect harbor town known for its old port and maritime charm. The Vieux Bassin, lined with medieval buildings and sailboats, is the heart of the town, while the wooden Eglise Sainte-Catherine (built by shipwrights to resemble an overturned boat) is a unique landmark. Add in its art museums and bustling waterfront cafés, and Honfleur feels like the quintessential coastal escape.

Colmar

Colmar, in France’s Alsace region near the German border, is known for its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and flower-lined canals. The Petite Venise area is especially scenic, with pastel buildings reflecting in the shallow waterways once used by fishermen. Highlights include the Gothic Saint Martin Church, the ornate Maison des Têtes, and the Unterlinden Museum, home to the Isenheim Altarpiece.