France is a beautiful country with many amazing cities that are worth visiting. While Paris is undoubtedly the most popular destination, there are several other cities in France that are equally charming and exciting. Here are four major cities in France besides Paris that you should consider adding to your travel itinerary.
Lyon
Lyon is often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France. It is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Lyonnaise dishes such as coq au vin and quenelles. This city is also home to many historic sites, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location.
If you’re a fan of museums, Lyon has plenty to offer as well. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon has an impressive collection of European art spanning several centuries. The Musée Gadagne explores the history and culture of Lyon itself.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is famous for its wine production and is home to some of the world’s most renowned vineyards. However, there’s much more to this city than just wine! Bordeaux’s historic center was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its stunning architecture, which dates back centuries.
One must-see attraction in Bordeaux is the Place de la Bourse, an elegant square that features a magnificent water mirror reflecting the surrounding buildings. The city also boasts several world-class museums, including the Musée d’Aquitaine and the CAPC musée d’art contemporain.
Marseille
Marseille is one of France’s oldest cities and has a rich history dating back over 2,600 years. It’s also one of France’s largest ports and has long been an important center for trade and commerce.
One highlight of Marseille is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), which is still a bustling hub of activity today. The city is also home to the stunning Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city.
Finally, Marseille is a great destination for those looking to relax and soak up some sun. The city has several beautiful beaches, including Plage des Catalans and Prado Beach.
Nice
Located on the French Riviera, Nice is known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. However, there’s much more to this city than just sun and sand!
Nice’s Old Town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets and colorful buildings. One must-see attraction in the Old Town is the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, which dates back to the 17th century.
Nice also has several excellent museums, including the Musée Matisse, which showcases works by this famous French artist. And of course, no visit to Nice would be complete without a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Conclusion
While Paris may be France’s most well-known city, there are plenty of other destinations in this beautiful country that are worth exploring. From Lyon’s delicious cuisine to Bordeaux’s world-class wine to Marseille’s rich history and Nice’s stunning beaches, there truly is something for everyone in France. So why not plan your next trip to one of these four major cities besides Paris?