8 Adorable Villages in France Straight Out of a Fairytale
Exploring France is always a delight no matter where you go, but there’s something extra special about its charming villages.
Adorable villages dot the landscape of France, and each has its unique story, character, and beauty.
From colorful houses by the sea to cobblestoned streets lined with flowers to Medieval villages surrounded by vineyards, these villages offer a glimpse into the heart of French history and culture.
They’re also places where you’re going to have your phone out snapping pictures through your entire visit, and every corner is almost ridiculously picturesque.
Ready to discover some hidden gems? Let’s take a stroll through eight of the most charming villages in France that are sure to capture your heart and imagination.
8 Adorable Towns in France That Will Surprise and Delight You
1. Colmar
Colmar, nestled in Alsace on France’s eastern border, feels like a real-life fairytale and is said to have inspired Belle’s village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
This colorful town, with its half-timbered houses and winding cobblestone streets, blends French and German influences, visible in its architecture and cuisine.
The most enchanting area is Petite Venise. Here, houses painted in pastel hues line the Lauch River, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a storybook. Strolling through these streets, you’ll discover charming cafés, local shops, and flower-adorned bridges.
History buffs will appreciate the Unterlinden Museum, which showcases medieval and Renaissance art, including the renowned Isenheim Altarpiece.
Another highlight is the vibrant Colmar Christmas Market, which transforms the town into a winter wonderland with festive lights, wooden stalls, and seasonal treats.
The colorful buildings, historical sites, and lively markets make the entire town a delight to explore.
2. Saint Emilion
Saint Emilion, a picturesque village in the Bordeaux region of southwest France, is a must-visit for wine lovers and those intrigued by the past.
This medieval town is surrounded by rolling vineyards and world-renowned wineries, creating a perfect blend of heritage and viticulture.
Walking through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Saint Emilion, you’ll be charmed by the beautifully preserved architecture and quaint squares.
The town’s roots date back to Roman times, evident in landmarks like the Monolithic Church, carved directly into the limestone rock.
One of the main attractions of Saint Emilion is its vineyards. Each vineyard is centered around its own chateau, producing some of the best wines in the world.
A visit to a local winery is a must, where you can tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, enjoy a tasting of the exceptional wines.
I really loved the combination of quaint Medieval village and lush vineyards that make up Saint Emilion. It’s especially striking as you walk in the countryside around the village, as you are surrounded by row after row of vineyards.
Whether you’re wandering through the medieval streets or sipping a glass of local wine, Saint Emilion offers a delightful escape into the heart of French wine country.
3. Dinan
Dinan is an adorable medieval town in northern Bretagne (Brittany), just south of Saint-Malo and not far from Mont St Michel. This walled village features half-timbered and charming stone buildings, winding streets, cobblestoned lanes, and beautiful views over the countryside.
The Rance River flows on one side of the village while rolling hills surround the other side.
Exploring the streets of Dinan is one of the best things to do while in town. The medieval city center is well-preserved and adorably quaint, with greenery and flowers accenting the streets.
Rue de Jerzual and Rue du Petit Four in particular are absolutely delightful, with some of the prettiest street views in France.
Dinan’s port has been important since the 11th century, when it was a hub along the trade route of the Rance River. Today, the river sees mostly pleasure boats (and visitors can join a cruise on the river).
The port is incredibly picturesque, lined with restaurants and cafés along a stone walkway, with views of the historic “Vieux Pont” or Old Bridge, just down the lane.
Dinan’s blend of medieval charm, scenic views, and vibrant port area make it a must-visit in Bretagne.
4. Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer, situated on the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco, is known for its pastel-colored houses that create a striking contrast against the Mediterranean Sea. This small town is full of vibrant beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
As you wander through the maze of alleys and staircases in Old Town, you’ll find charming cafés, hidden chapels, and unique boutiques. The Rue Obscure, an underground street from the 14th century, is a fascinating feature from the town’s military days.
The harbor is another focal point in town. Watching boats in the clear water while enjoying dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants along Quai de l’Admiral Courbet is a great way to end your day.
The Chapelle St Pierre, decorated by artist Jean Cocteau, is a must-see for its unique interior. The Citadel, a fortress from the 16th century, now houses museums and gardens, and is also an interesting historical spot to wander through.
A short walk from the city center takes you to a beautiful beach where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Villefranche-sur-Mer offers not just stunning colors but also laidback vibes and simple charm, making it one of my favorite spots on the Riviera.
5. Gerberoy
Gerberoy (pronounced gair-ber-wha), known as the Village of Roses, began as a crucial outpost in Normandy between 900-1000 AD. The town defended against Viking incursions along the Seine, and the villages’s fortifications originated from this period.
The village’s transformation into the “Village of Roses” began in 1905 when painter Henri le Sidaner, seeking picturesque landscapes for his art, bought a house and planted a garden.
He requested the villagers to plant flowers around town, resulting in a proliferation of roses and the village’s famous moniker.
Gerberoy’s charm is evident in its beautiful, narrow streets lined with half-timbered and brick houses adorned with flowers. Although there are plenty of roses, other flowers, such as geraniums, also fill the town.
Two notable attractions include the Jardin des Ifs and the Jardin Henri le Sidaner. The Jardin des Ifs, once the governor’s home, features a French garden with yew trees and boxwood shaped into unique topiaries.
The Jardin Henri le Sidaner, cultivated by the painter himself, is a fairytale garden with cobblestoned trails, trellises, archways, gazebos, ponds, and an abundance of roses and hydrangeas. It’s a small, charming space that feels like stepping into a storybook.
The village is small, but it’s one of those spots where you want to stop and take a picture every 5 steps – it’s truly an enchanting destination.
6. Eze
Eze, perched high on a hill above the French Riviera not far from Nice, has been a haven and inspiration for artists and writers for centuries. This medieval village offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a jewel of the Côte d’Azur.
With its narrow, winding streets, Eze transports you back in time with its well-preserved stone buildings, cobblestoned streets, and charming atmosphere. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you’ll find artisan shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés.
Each turn reveals a new picturesque corner or a hidden courtyard, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls and photography.
One of the main attractions in Eze is the Jardin Exotique, a stunning botanical garden filled with exotic plants and sculptures. The garden is located at the top of the village, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
The village is also home to the Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the perfume-making process and even purchase some of their delicious fragrances.
7. Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence, often referred to as the “City of a Thousand Fountains,” is known for its numerous fountains dating back to Roman times. The town also has picturesque streets lined with trees, lots of squares, and beautiful architecture.
The entire city of Aix-en-Provence is actually much larger than a village, but the Old Town preserves a very village-like feel, which is why it made this list.
As mentioned, the main highlight of Aix is its fountains. From the grand Fontaine de la Rotonde at the end of Cours Mirabeau to the smaller, charming fountains tucked away in side streets, the ~100 fountains found in the city today add a unique vibe to the city.
The Cours Mirabeau itself is a wide, pedestrian-friendly avenue perfect for strolling, window shopping, and enjoying the ambiance. Art lovers will appreciate the Atelier de Cezanne, the former studio of the famous painter Paul Cezanne.
Aix’s markets are another big draw for visitors and locals alike, with various stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. The food market at Place Richelme is a daily event, while the larger markets on Cours Mirabeau and surrounding squares are bustling with activity on market days.
Aix-en-Provence’s blend of ubiquitous fountains, vibrant markets, and charming streets makes it a delightful destination in the Provence region.
8. Etretat
Etretat, a quaint town on the coast of Normandy, is famous for its striking white limestone cliffs that flank the town on either side.
A favored holiday destination in northern France, Etretat has long attracted artists, including Impressionists like Monet, who came to paint its idyllic cliffside landscapes.
These sheer, white limestone formations extend in both directions along the coastline with arches and spires coming from the cliffs and offering spectacular views.
Walking paths along the cliff rims provide breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset when the cliffs glow in the evening light. Many visitors enjoy picnicking and relaxing on the grass, soaking in the views and the ocean breeze.
The Jardins d’Etretat is another unique attraction. This styled French garden, located on a hill, features winding paths, shaped hedges, topiaries, and evocative art pieces.
A charming, wooden seaside promenade sits right in front of the town and the beach and between the cliffs, and is perfect for a relaxing stroll, a seaside meal, or access down to the beach to play in the waves.
Etretat’s combination of dramatic cliffs, unique gardens, and seaside charm makes it one of my favorite places in Northern France.
The Wrap Up
While France is home to bustling and famous cities like Paris and Nice, its many smaller villages offer something unique – dramatic landscapes, charming homes, and relaxing vibes. I have loved my chances to explore these beautiful towns, and I know you will, too.
