When travelers think of France, the cities that often come up as travel destinations are Paris, Marseille, Nice, and Lyon. However, the land of good food and wine has so much more to offer slow travelers seeking hidden gems.

This is where tailor-made tours in France come to the fore, as you can celebrate local cuisine, traditions, and natural beauty without the usual crowds. Whether you’re craving the serene landscapes of Provence or want to see the birthplace of world-renowned painters, these cities are sure to offer you an enriching journey.

Embrace the art of slow travel and discover a different side of France.

10 Cities of France’s Beaten Path Worth Exploring

France is often voted as the most popular tourist destination, and it’s not just for the iconic landmarks in Paris. The country is filled with cities that are culturally and historically rich, yet often overlooked by tourists. Here are the top cities to visit for slow travelers.

1. Lille

Lille, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region, is in the north of France, close to the Belgian border. The charming city is renowned for its warm hospitality and beautiful cobbled streets, as well as red-brick architecture.

Art-lovers will enjoy visiting one of France’s richest museums, the Palais des Beaux-Arts, which houses the country’s second-largest collection of artworks. The beautiful medieval trading hub is filled with art and mesmerizing architecture.

It is most well-known for its picturesque architecture with French, Flemish, Gothic, and Art Deco styles that adorn the streets. Walk through the city and snap these in Old Town, City Hall belfry, and Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse.

2. Amiens

Amiens, also in the north, is most well-known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amiens Cathedral. The three-tier Gothic cathedral was built in the 13th century and is almost twice the volume of Notre Dame. It is filled with breathtaking sculptures and facades, perfect for you to admire for a couple of hours.

But that’s not the only reason travelers flock here. The city also boasts a beautiful collection of quaint canals, floating gardens, and other attractions, making it perfect for leisurely travellers who want to slow down. Enjoy the serene sounds of birds chirping and the gentle lapping of water in the naturally marshy terrain of Les Hortillonnages.

3. Albi

Albi is the capital city of the Tarn département in the Occitanie région. You’ll find it along the Tarn River, marked by striking red-brick architecture.

It’s best known as the birthplace of painter Toulouse-Lautrec. You can see his artworks at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, which houses this artist’s most extensive collection. But that’s not all this city offers.

Discover the beautiful heritage of this UNESCO city through the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, its timber-framed houses, and vibrant local markets. These captivating locations offer a unique glimpse into the warm, southern French culture.

4. Aix-en-Provence

Done with the crowds of Paris? Visit Aix-en-Provence, dubbed “Paris of the South”. This charming city, which was once the capital of Provence, captivates its visitors with its lively squares, tree-lined boulevards, and outdoor cafés.

It’s well-known for its lively outdoor markets, which sell fresh produce, quirky antiques, lovely flowers, and handcrafted souvenirs. During Christmas time, the markets really shine with festive spirit and events.

The city is the birthplace of the painter Paul Cézanne. Slow travellers can savour this charming town’s natural and cultural beauty by visiting the various art galleries and museums dotted along the streets, celebrating the local artists.

5. Besançon

Besançon is tucked away near the Swiss border, surrounded by dramatic landscapes that make it the perfect destination for travelers who love nature. The city is incredibly green, surrounded by seven hills, the Doubs River, and the Chailluz Forest. If you are a nature lover, you’ll enjoy the city’s many hiking trails, cycling routes, and canoeing opportunities.

Besançon was named a UNESCO City of Art and History. This means you’ll also have hours to enjoy walks in the charming old streets surrounded by baroque architecture and the Doubs River.
 

6. Bayonne

Bayonne in southwestern France is at the crossroads of French and Basque cultures. This heavily influenced the architectural styles, offering an authentic, colorful experience far from the typical tourist trails.

The city is also renowned for its chocolate, playing a significant role in cocoa confectionery throughout Europe and earning the nickname "The Chocolate Capital of France." Get a front-row introduction and tasting of its magic at L'Atelier du Chocolat to discover exquisite, handcrafted chocolates, unique flavour combinations, and the rich history behind each bite.

7. Clermont-Ferrand

Of the mentioned cities, Clermont-Ferrand has the lowest cost of living in France, making it an ideal stop for slow travelers.

Spend your days in this city exploring the volcanic landscapes and rolling hills in the Chaîne des Puys mountain range. This region gives you a unique opportunity to hike among 80 dormant volcanoes.

The heart of the city, Place de Jaude, is where you’ll find the most things to do and often where the locals gather. You can expect vibrant shops, cafes, and bars that sell local treats and drinks, offering a genuine taste of Clermont-Ferrand's hospitality. 

8. Colmar

Colmar is a picturesque city in the Alsace region, often overlooked by tourists. Its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, canals, and flower-lined streets are the ideal stop for travelers looking to take things slow.

Take your time exploring “Little Venice,” by floating along the canals past the colorful half-timbered houses and strolling through the many museums. Or spend your afternoons wandering the Alsace Wine Route, sipping local wines, and touring the stunning vineyards.

Come Christmas time, the city comes alive with vibrant markets and a fairy-tale atmosphere, drawing international and local tourists alike. While there, be sure to tuck into Colmar’s own take on Sauerkraut ‘Choucoroute’, Bretzels, and of course Alsace wine.

9. Nancy

Many travellers are unaware of Nancy's beauty. This stunning city is for anyone interested in exquisite architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and historic Art Nouveau heritage.

Architecture aficionados will love the town’s three squares: Place Stanislas, Place de la Carrière, and Place d'Alliance. Each is a UNESCO World Heritage site, displaying the city’s cultural richness through gilded gates, fountains, and gardens.

10. Annecy

Annecy’s close location to the Swiss border gifts it a gorgeous Alpine landscape. As a result, you’ll find lush mountains, a crystal clear lake, and a landscape ideal for hiking, boating, and swimming. This, along with the city’s winding canals cutting through pastel-colored houses, has garnered it the charming nickname of the "Venice of the Alps."

Annecy isn’t just for outdoor enthusiasts; it is also a haven for foodies seeking something unique. Annecy’s foodie charm lies in its exquisite Savoyard cuisine, like the cheese-based dish Tartiflette or smoked char.