Best Cities in France: The Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in B&B

Set off on a vacation full of charm, character, and authenticity.

For your travels in France, each city has its own unique character: Paris is elegant, Nantes is creative, Bordeaux is refined, Strasbourg is authentic, and Marseille is vibrant. Discover these charming destinations by staying in the best B&Bs in the best cities in France for an unforgettable experience, rich in culture and charm.

Unmissable Tour of French Cities

Outdoor cafe in Montpellier with colorful chairs around a tree-covered fountain, surrounded by historic stone buildings and greenery.

☀️ Escape to Montpellier

In the historic Écusson district of Montpellier, you'll experience a unique, intimate, and lively atmosphere. Stroll through shaded squares surrounded by stone houses and medieval buildings. In Place de la Comédie, the city's vibrant heart, admire the Fountain of the Three Graces and climb the Arch of Triumph. Then, relax in the Jardin des Plantes for a moment of tranquility.

Scenic view of marin in La Rochelle a with sailboats, historic towers, and a church spire in the background under a clear sky.

🏰 Discovering La Rochelle

La Rochelle, a city overlooking the Ocean and closely connected to Fort Boyard and the island of Ré, is perfect for a short stay. With its rich heritage, it offers the opportunity to shop in pedestrian streets and admire the Renaissance-style Hôtel de Ville. Take a walk along the old harbor, passing under the Great Clock Gate.

Clifftop Bonifacio with buildings overlooking a turquoise sea, set against a blue sky with scattered clouds.

⛵ Weekend in Bonifacio

Bonifacio, located on towering white limestone cliffs in Southern Corsica, offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the Lavezzi Islands. The harbor, nestled in a natural fjord, is the perfect place to enjoy Corsican specialties outdoors while watching the fishing boats. Don’t miss the climb up the Escaliers du Roy d'Aragon to reach the picturesque medieval citadel.

Dome of La Grave hospital and Pont Saint-Pierre bridge reflected in the Garonne River under a clear blue sky in Toulouse, France.

🚀 Discover Toulouse

With its welcoming atmosphere, mild climate, the melodic accent of its residents, and a rich cultural heritage, Toulouse is a destination waiting to be explored. Start your journey at the unmissable Place du Capitole, in the historic center, where you can admire elegant arcades and the majestic town hall. Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, then enjoy a stroll along the Garonne River or the Canal du Midi. And if you're passionate about aviation, don’t miss the Aeroscopia Museum, a true paradise for aviation enthusiasts!

Aerial view of nantes with a river dividing urban areas, bridges connecting the land, and greenery along the riverbanks under a clear blue sky.

🐘 Unique Nantes Atmospheres

Nantes is a city of a thousand shades: on one hand, it captivates with its rich history, and on the other, it enchants with its contemporary creativity. Discover the majestic Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a symbol of the medieval period, and the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Then head to Île de Nantes: on this island with an industrial past, you'll encounter extraordinary machines inspired by the fantastical world of Jules Verne, a unique experience blending art, imagination, and ingenuity.

The Great French Cities and Their Unique Character

Paris, the City of Romance

Take a sunset stroll along the banks of the Seine. Begin your romantic journey at Notre-Dame and wander through the alleys of Île Saint-Louis. Continue to the Pont des Arts, where lovers once attached locks as a symbol of their affection. Get lost in the hidden paths of the Luxembourg Gardens, a timeless moment in one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris. Admire the little sailboats and the famous Medici Fountain, then sit on one of the benches along the tree-lined avenues and let yourself dream. Visit Montmartre and feel like an artist. Walk to the "I Love You" Wall, climb the alleys to the Montmartre vineyards, admire the artists at Place du Tertre, and end with a breathtaking view from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur…

Marseille, the Hospitable Harbor

The warm hospitality of the Marseillais. You won’t spend much time in Marseille without striking up a conversation with a local, sharing a smile, or enjoying a funny remark. The people of Marseille are cheerful and sunny, and the year-round sunny weather makes the atmosphere even lighter. The lively vibe of the typical neighborhoods. Walking through Noailles, you’ll be captivated by the voices of street vendors, the aromas of spices and fish, and the colorful market stalls. In Le Panier, the facades decorated with street art and the narrow alleys offer a unique atmosphere. Endoume, the authentic seaside district. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, Vallon des Auffes is a peaceful little harbor, a perfect spot to start discovering the charming coves and maybe take a dip in the Mediterranean.

Bordeaux, the Elegant Gem

The elegance of Place de la Bourse. This prestigious 18th-century site is a must-see. The facades of the buildings reflect in the Miroir d'Eau, creating a vibrant and poetic image. The wine culture, the Bordeaux identity. Bordeaux is the city of taste and fine wine. Visit La Cité du Vin, a modern building on the banks of the Garonne that immerses you in the history and culture of wine through interactive experiences. Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With over 350 historic buildings, the city boasts a rich legacy. Explore the Saint-Pierre district, the Cailhau Gate, the Chartrons neighborhood, once home to wine merchants, and the Saint-Michel district with its basilica.

Lyon, the Gourmet City

Lyon, the capital of gastronomy. Food lovers, during your stay in Lyon, you'll feel like "a king in the pot"! In the Part-Dieu district, you'll find the Halles Paul Bocuse, a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Strolling through the stalls of cheeses, cold cuts, pastry shops, and chocolatiers is a true pleasure. The famous bouchons lyonnais. You can’t visit Lyon without stopping at an authentic bouchon lyonnais for a delicious meal. In a convivial atmosphere, savor typical dishes like andouillette, cervelle de canut, tarte aux pralines, or the exquisite quenelles de brochet. The traboules of Old Lyon. Walk through Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Besides the cobbled streets, you'll discover the magic of the secret traboules and the beauty of the colorful Renaissance facades.

Best Cities in France to Discover

Outdoor café with wicker chairs under an umbrella on a cobblestone plaza, surrounded by colorful historic buildings and large potted trees.

Lille, the Pearl of Northern France

Nothing is more welcoming and warm than the people of the North: there’s a lively atmosphere in the streets of Lille, also known as the "beauty of Flanders." In addition to enjoying a pleasant stay, where you’ll encounter humor and conviviality, you’ll be captivated by the distinctive Flemish style of the architecture. Don’t miss the Grand'Place, beloved by the locals, where you’ll find the majestic Vieille Bourse, dating back to 1652. Climb the 415 steps of the Hôtel de Ville’s bell tower and enjoy the panoramic view of the capital of Hauts-de-France.

Woman with a hat stands on a terrace in Biarritz overlooking a stone bridge leading to a lush island surrounded by ocean waves under a blue sky.

Biarritz, a Mild Climate Year-Round

This city in the Basque Country, situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees, is the ideal destination for ocean lovers. In addition to its spectacular bridge leading to the island, Biarritz is home to iconic beaches like the Grande Plage, where the Hôtel du Palais and the casino are located. La Côte des Basques, one of the most beautiful beaches in France, is a haven for surfers from around the world. Lastly, the wilder Miramar Beach, frequented by both boaters and surfers, offers a romantic landscape with its famous Roche Percée.

A scenic view of Quimper with historic buildings, a river, a small bridge, and trees with autumn foliage under a cloudy sky.

Quimper, the Capital of Cornwall

This charming Breton city, crossed by the Odet River, perfectly embodies Celtic culture and traditions. Take a step back in time as you stroll through the cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses and visit the majestic Saint-Corentin Cathedral. In the summer, the Cornish Festival, held in the heart of the city, offers a unique experience. Celtic culture artists perform to the rhythm of binious and bagpipes, and traditional costume parades can be admired.

Half-timbered houses reflected in a tranquil canal in Strasbourg , surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers under a bright blue sky.

Strasbourg, European Heart and Charm

Strasbourg is a charming city that combines exceptional heritage with a constant commitment to environmental sustainability, while also playing a central role in the European Union. You’ll be enchanted by the Petite France district, with its small squares, bridges, and colorful timber-framed facades. After admiring the stunning Gothic cathedral and its spire, head towards the European district, where iconic architecture houses, among other institutions, the European Parliament and the Council of Europe.

A scenic view of Nice with a curving beach, turquoise and deep blue sea, palm-lined promenade, and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Nice, the Jewel of the French Riviera

A luxury and glamorous destination on the French Riviera, Nice is also known for its museums, architecture, and especially for its historic center with an Italian flair. Stroll along the famous 7 km-long Promenade des Anglais and admire the facades of villas and buildings. The rocky coastline extending to the Italian border plunges into an extraordinarily beautiful blue sea, while the villages nestled in the hinterland hold numerous treasures: churches, stunning views, and more.

Aerial view of Carcassonne medieval fortress with towers and walls, surrounded by lush green landscape and fields.

A Dive into the Middle Ages in Carcassonne

Carcassonne is strategically located between the Pyrenees and the Massif Central, nestled between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Its medieval fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a true treasure trove of architectural wonders. Stroll through its cobbled streets, rich in history, and climb the imposing fortified walls for a spectacular view. Don’t miss the chance to cross the Aude River and discover the daily life of the Carcassonne people in the historic center of Bastide Saint-Louis.