french speaking places to visit

I already told you in article 10 good reasons to learn French , but I'll tell you again: the French language is very useful and indispensable for travelling.

Along with English, French is the only language present on the 5 continents. So it's true that we don't always know where we speak French. It can sometimes be the official language or the second language of some countries and in others it will be spoken but in an unofficial way.

This is why I have concocted an article on the 25 most beautiful destinations where French is spoken.

#1 French Overseas Departments and Territories

(Photo of the Isle of Pines in New Caledonia by Sébastien Jermer)

The French Overseas Departments and Territories are French overseas departments and territories outside the European continent. They are, for the most part, paradise islands with an incredible ecosystem. They are splendid destinations if you like white sandy beaches, turquoise water and if you want to order your cocktails in French.  

#2 Aosta Valley

(Photo of Aosta Valley, Pixabay)

Between France and Italy, the Aosta Valley has two official languages: Italian and French. Despite its small size, this region has a very important cultural richness and beautiful landscapes. If you are passionate about winter sports or country walks, the Aosta Valley is for you.

#3 Quebec

(Photo of Jacques Cartier National Park, Quebec, Canada by Alice Triquet)

Why not visit our Quebec friends? Quebec is a region of Canada where French is spoken. So yes, they have a very pronounced accent and if you're not used to it, it's going to sound weird. But, you get used to it very quickly and there is always a way to understand each other.

(Architectural photo of Laos, Pixabay 

It's indeed still possible to find some inhabitants who speak French in Laos. Due to the colonial past of this country, it is still possible to find some remnants of the French language in the country of millions of elephants, including street names and a few elders who master the language of Molière.

#5 The Seychelles

(Photo of the Seychelles, Pixabay)

What a marvel! Doesn't it make you want to dive into this turquoise water? In the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago consists of 115 islands with numerous beaches and coral reefs. Enough to delight sunbathing fans and diving enthusiasts. With more than half of the population speaking French, contacts with the inhabitants and amenities are in French.

#6 Madagascar

(Photo of a Madagascar Lemur catta, Pixabay)

Member of the International Organization of the Francophonie (OIF), Madagascar has an incredible fauna and flora. Between majestic baobabs and more than fifty species of lemurs, this French-speaking island is full of surprises.

#7 Belgium

(Photo of Bruges, Belgium, by S. Hermann & F. Richter, Pixabay)

Otherwise known as the "flat country", Belgium has three official languages: German, Flemish and French. However, most Belgians speak French or have at least some knowledge of it. I live in Belgium, I don't speak a word of Flemish or German and I'm doing very well, because I always come across someone who speaks French. With its rich culture and green landscapes, Belgium is a breath of fresh air in the heart of Europe.

#8 The Maghreb

(Photo of a historical city in Morocco, by Walkersskr, Pixabay)

The Maghreb is composed of three African countries: Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The French language has no official or national title in the Maghreb, but it is spoken by a large part of the inhabitants. At the gates of the Sahara desert, these three countries will fill your eyes with its landscapes. In addition, the spice markets with their multiple scents will fill you with wonder.

#9 Monaco

(Photo of the exotic garden of Monaco, by Julien Lanoy)

Monaco is an independent entity and is not a French region, despite the fact that it is located in France. Even though there are a large number of foreign visitors, the French language is mainly used by Monegasques. If you like luxury, the "m'as-tu-vu" and bling-bling, you will love Monaco. Don't hesitate also to visit the fantastic oceanographic museum founded by Prince Albert 1ᵉʳ of Monaco.

(Photo of the Pyramids of Egypt, by Pete Linforth of Pixabay)

Egypt intrigues by its sumptuous pyramids and its thrilling history. You may be surprised to see Egypt in the list of countries where French is spoken. However, there is a part of the population of Egypt that still uses the French language. The country of the Nile Donation is even a member of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).

#11 Mauritius

(Photo of Cristal Rock in Mauritius, by DerBub de Pixabay )

French is not the official language of Mauritius, however a large part of the population speaks French. It is indeed, along with English, learned at school. French will therefore be very useful to you in this dream destination.

#12 Switzerland

(Photo of a Swiss landscape, by Ioannis Ioannidis of Pixabay)

I don't know about you, but when I see these landscapes, I immediately feel calmer. Between snow-capped mountains, turquoise blue lakes and wide green spaces, Switzerland is the nature and peace destination par excellence. The French language remains one of the three official languages in the land of chocolate. It is spoken by 23% of the Swiss population.

#13 French-speaking Africa: Senegal, Mali, Benin, Gabon, Togo, Niger, Djibouti, Rwanda, etc.

(Photo of boats in Senegal, by Marclou de Pixabay)

Also due to a strong colonial past, it can be said that France left its mark on some African countries during its passage. Many have kept the French language as one of their official languages. If you want to discover French-speaking Africa, French will be very useful! Between seaside resorts, safaris, national parks, typical villages, as they say, you have the king's choice.

#14 Cambodia

(Photo of a Cambodian temple, by Poswiecie de Pixabay)

Cambodia, a country of serenity and spirituality, where the French language is also spoken by a minority of the population. It is mainly used in the city of Phnom Penh.

(Photo of the island of Jersey, by Falco de Pixabay)

Situated between France and England, the Island of Jersey is an autonomous dependent territory of the United Kingdom. Strongly influenced by British and French culture, French is taught at school to the inhabitants as a second language. The island is visited and known for its cliffside walks, its landscapes mixing the blue of the sea and the green of the valleys, as well as for its historic castles.

#16 Lebanon

(Photo of Lebanese architecture, by pardjedj de Pixabay)

Between land and sea, Lebanon has many spoken languages, including French. Mainly rocky, the Lebanese landscapes are breathtaking. The Lebanese gastronomy is also very appreciated and is worth the detour.

#17 Vietnam

(Photo of rice fields in Vietnam, by Dung Le Tien of Pixabay)

Official language until the middle of the 20th century, the French language is present, once again, thanks / because of France's colonial past. Its presence remains, nevertheless less so nowadays. Vietnam is famous for its cliff-side beaches, rivers, Buddhist places of worship, rice fields and lively cities.

#18 Luxembourg

(Photo of Bourscheid castle in Luxembourg, by Yvonne Huijbens de Pixabay)

Formerly called Northern Gibraltar, Luxembourg is a tiny country in Europe. Endowed with lush green landscapes, Luxembourg has splendid forests, natural parks and a medieval past to be discovered without moderation. Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, German and French.

#19 Haiti

(Haitian beach photo by Caleb George)

Located in the Caribbean and sharing its territory with the Dominican Republic, Haiti uses French as a second language. It is a language used for all administrative, commercial and educational purposes.

#20 Vanuatu

(Photo of Vanuatu, by Monika MG)

Vanuatu is an archipelago of 80 islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is the country with the highest linguistic density in the world, i.e. it has a large number of languages for a small number of inhabitants. However, Vanuatu has three official languages: English, Bichelamar and French.

#21 Comoros

(Photo of Comoros Islands, by Patrizio Severini)

The Comoros Islands, composed of four large islands, have three official languages: Arabic, Comorian and French. Between beaches and volcanic rocks, the Comoros Islands offer heavenly landscapes.  The Comoros Islands are also known for their culture of vanilla, cloves and ylang-ylang. Enough to thrill your sense of smell.

#22 Guernesey

(Photo de Guernesey par Olly Browning)

Like Jersey, Guernsey is an autonomous dependent territory of the United Kingdom. The island has three official languages: English, Norman and French. Guernsey is famous for its few seaside resorts and its walks along the coast. An ideal destination where French is spoken.

#23 Andorra

(Landscape photo of Andorra, by geertwillemarck de Pixabay)

A member of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), this part of the country, located between France and Spain, is an independent principality. Offering magnificent green landscapes, Andorra is also renowned for its ski resorts.

#24 The Vatican

(Photo of the Vatican, by geertwillemarck of Pixabay)

Why not visit the smallest state in the world? With four official languages, including French, the Vatican has an incredible history and cultural richness. So a pious stay in French doesn't tempt you ?

(Photo of a lavender field, by Léonard Cotte)

And yes! We can't forget it! France is also a very beautiful destination and where French is spoken. There too, a wide range of landscapes is offered to you and there is something for everyone: countryside, mountains, sea, towns, meadows, lakes and rivers, etc

So, tell me which destination where French is spoken makes you dream the most ? ⬇️ ⬇️

See you soon for new adventures, in french of course  🇫🇷.

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Top french-speaking countries to visit that aren’t france.

Booking your next vacation with your French-language studies in mind? You’re a class act. Immersion is one of the best ways to learn a language, but you probably already knew that.

This article isn’t just about praising you for being proactive, however. It’s also about opening your mind to the huge number of French-speaking places in the world. Though it took an unfortunate legacy of colonialism to make it so, French is now the sixth most widely spoken language in the world, and it’s one of the fastest-growing.

Indeed, you don’t have to go to France to practice your French — and you’ll probably get to experience an alternative version of the language that way. It’s an official language in 29 countries , and that doesn’t even count all the places where it’s unofficially spoken. Half of all French speakers live in Africa, and the population growth there could push the total number of French speakers to as high as 700 million by 2050 (compared to about 300 million today).

The Best French-Speaking Countries To Visit That Aren’t France

A little under half the population of Belgium speaks French as a native language, though most of them are concentrated in the southern Wallonia region and in the capital, Brussels. Brussels is actually officially bilingual, with its street signs and advertising printed in both Flemish and French. You’re way more likely to hear French spoken on the streets of Brussels, however. Plus, we hear it’s a good spot to experience other “French” things , like fried potatoes.

If you’re going to visit Canada to practice your French, the obvious recommendation is Quebec. Out of the 10 million native French speakers living in Canada, 7 million live here. Montreal is actually the fourth-largest Francophone city in the world (Paris being the first, followed by Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Abidjan, Ivory Coast). Also: poutine.

French Polynesia

There are more than 100 islands in the South Pacific that make up French Polynesia, Tahiti being the largest. In terms of “island paradise,” you probably can’t get much better than this, and the language barrier is actually pretty robust — meaning you’ll get a rigorous French workout while you’re lounging among the hibiscus flowers.

French is widely spoken in Luxembourg, which easily ranks as one of Europe’s most multilingual countries . It’s also one of the world’s top nations in wine consumption, so that’s a pretty good indication of a fun time. For such a small country, it packs a lot of dense forests, dramatic cliffs and fairytale castles.

If you’re into nature and biodiversity, head to Africa’s largest island. Madagascar’s wildlife is especially unique thanks to its geographic isolation, and it’s the only place in the world where you can see lemurs in their natural habitat. There are more speakers of Malagasy than French in Madagascar, but these are both official languages here, and you’re likely to encounter many Francophone locals.

If the Caribbean is more your speed, consider visiting Martinique. It’s not only the rum capital of the world, but with its blend of French, African, Creole and West Indian influences, the country is also considered to have some of the best food in the Caribbean. Martinique is officially an overseas region of France, so French is its official language. Almost everyone there also speaks Antillean Creole, a French-based creole.

Rwanda is widely touted as one of Africa’s best travel destinations, especially for lovers of wildlife (it’s one of the best places for seeing gorillas in the wild). Its official languages include Kinyarwanda, French, English and Swahili. Though Rwanda officially switched its entire education system from French to English (likely in large part due to the French government’s role in the Rwandan genocide), many Rwandans are still Francophones.

Senegal is home to some of West Africa’s best nightlife and food, and it’s also got great beaches and wildlife to rival its urban backdrops. French is the official language here, though the indigenous language Wolof is the most widely spoken. Not everyone you meet in Senegal will understand French, so it might be a good idea to brush up on a few basic greetings and phrases in Wolof before you go.

This idyllic 115-island country has plenty in the way of beaches and natural parks. But despite the fact that it has the smallest population of any African state, its culture is also incredibly compelling. The Republic of Seychelles has no indigenous population, but rather, a multi-ethnic melting pot made up of people from virtually every corner of the globe. English, French, and Seychellois Creole (a French-based creole) are the most widely spoken languages.

Switzerland

About one in five Swiss nationals speak French as a native language (and an even greater number have a working knowledge of it), but the biggest reason to travel to Switzerland as a French student is to experience the differences between Swiss French and Standard French. Swiss French is the variety of French spoken in Romandy (the French-speaking region of Switzerland). Here’s a brief primer on the differences between French and Swiss French.

This Pacific 80-plus island archipelago has French as one of three official languages, and it’s your place to go if you’re into visiting deserted beaches, hiking volcanoes and diving. Though Bislama, an English-based creole, is the primary language spoken by locals, the French influence can be felt (especially in Port Vila).

8 French-Speaking Countries You Should Visit to Practice French and Have Fun

Traveling to these French-speaking countries can be an excellent chance to practice the French language and have fun. Check our list of the best Francophone places.

Switzerland

Other french-speaking countries worth visiting, visit the best french-speaking countries and enjoy.

The French language is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world , and it’s one that many people want to learn.

Some may think it's because they are planning on traveling to France or other countries where this language is used. However, there are plenty of other reasons why someone would want to learn French: for example, to get a job in a French-speaking country, to move or study there, or simply to communicate with their French friends.

Nevertheless, traveling to French-speaking countries can be a great aid in the language learning process.

Don't have a chance to travel at the moment? You still can practice French right here and right now:

Learn French with Langster

The following 8 destinations offer a uniquely immersive experience for anyone who wants to learn more about the culture, history, and traditions of French-speaking communities around the globe. These places also offer some amazing landscapes as well as plenty of opportunities for enjoying new experiences, meeting new people, and having fun.

For some of them, French is the only official language in the country, and for others - a co-official or just a widely spoken language. Of course, the French spoken outside France (for example, in South America) can differ a lot from the variety you're used to. Nevertheless, it can be a great opportunity to get familiar with the different accents and cultures at the same time.

France is one of the most visited countries in the world, and for a good reason. From its stunning landscapes and architecture to its rich cultural heritage , France has something to offer everyone , including the classic version of its beautiful language - Parisian French.

There are plenty of things to do in France, whether you're interested in history, art, or food. Some of the top tourist destinations in France include Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, Nice, and others. Depending on what you're looking for, you can find the perfect French-speaking city to enjoy.

Canada is a great place to go to if you're interested in learning more about the French language but go further than the traditional option. The French-speaking population is concentrated in the Quebec province, but there are also plenty of communities all over Canada where you can practice your French skills.

When going to Canada, make sure to prepare for the differences between the Parisian and Canadian French - they can be very significant sometimes . But even if you don’t speak French, the natives will still understand you, as most people speak English in Canada.

So, what to do in Canada ?

Canadian life is full of opportunities to learn, explore and grow in ways that are meaningful for you, whether you're looking to visit one of the many French-speaking communities in Quebec or practice your French skills in other cities where French is widely spoken.

You can adore vast landscapes like the Rocky Mountains , enjoy amazing urban centers like Vancouver , stroll through quaint towns like Kingston , or relish culinary delights at food festivals in Montreal .

Canada also has much to offer visitors when it comes to history and heritage ; historic sites such as Old Quebec ( Vieux-Quebec ) awaken the senses with their rich architecture which still exudes a sense of grandeur, even by today’s standards.

For those who enjoy skiing, there are many ski runs like the one at Mont Tremblant which offers something for all levels, and views of the Laurentian Mountains are said to be worth the trip alone.

Belgium is another interesting destination where French is a co-official language, and a widely spoken one. A little under half the population of Belgium speaks French as a native language, so if you want to meet many French speakers and make new friends, this is a perfect place to visit.

Belgium is a fascinating country with lots to offer visitors. From the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Brussels to the more laid-back charms of Bruges and Ghent , there's something for everyone. The country is also steeped in history, with stunning architecture from the middle ages and lovely medieval villages to explore.

And let's not forget Belgium's chocolate, beer, and waffles – all must-try experiences!

Do you want to go on a trip across Belgium's largest French-speaking cities? In that case, Brussels, Liège, and Charleroi are there to welcome you.

If you're looking for a place to visit as part of your travels, then Switzerland may be an option to consider. This country has been ranked as the #1 place to visit over and over again over the past several years because it offers all sorts of different things to see and do.

Switzerland has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and cultural experiences . It’s also considered to be one of the safest places in all of Europe . Another thing that makes this country so amazing is the fact that you don't need to speak any of the local languages if you visit, as English is widely used in this country.

There are also many mountains here, perfect both for winter sports and for passive relaxation - you can go skiing, snowboarding , or simply stay in your hotel room in the Alps and enjoy the cheese fondue .

You'll never run out of options for things to do here, and this is one of the main reasons why Switzerland is so popular among tourists. And apart from having fun, you also get a chance to get in touch with the locals and practice some French, which is an official language here along with German, Italian, and Romansh.

Do you want to experience the essence of Switzerland in one short trip? That is definitely not possible, but you can try - go to Geneva , the largest French-speaking city, and enjoy the watersports, the idyllic landscapes, the best shopping markets, and, of course, the wine tasting .

Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world, but it's also one of the most popular places to visit when they go on a trip and practice some French .

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, it’s perfect for almost every type of traveler: those who want to walk around the cities and explore the museums and architecture ; those who want to try their luck in the casinos and stay in luxurious hotels ; gourmands who like scenic places to have a meal in ; and those who simply enjoy the nature .

This country has just about everything that you would want to see and do here. Plenty of luxury accommodations, gambling facilities, as well as nightclubs and bars are located within the Monte Carlo area. If you’re not a party person, take a walk along the beach, relax listening to the sound of the sea, and reflect on your life.

Haiti is another country worth visiting where French is the official language. This place has experienced decades of political turmoil and natural disasters - but the people of Haiti have always been extremely resilient.

While it might not be the place to learn more about French culture, Haiti is definitely the perfect destination if you want to try your skills at surfing or enjoy some breathtaking landscapes , ranging from beautiful beaches to steep and stunning mountain regions - and practice your French at the same time.

The people of Haiti are warm and welcoming to all visitors, especially foreigners who come here for business or pleasure. If you're looking for an exotic location that offers plenty of historical significance , this destination should definitely appear on your list.

Andorra is a small country located in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. The official language here is Catalan, but many people also speak French and Spanish.

This country has some of the best ski resorts in all of Europe, which is why it is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to its winter sports offerings and beautiful mountain landscapes, Andorra also has a rich cultural heritage to explore .

This country has plenty of different kinds of trails for hikers and walkers alike . There are opportunities for campers who want to spend some time in one of the many lovely campsites located here as well. If you love nature, the outdoors, and want to experience the best of what Andorra has to offer, walking is definitely the way to go.

Luxembourg is a small country located in Western Europe, bordered by Belgium, France and Germany. It offers a mix of cultural experiences from all three of the bordering countries, as well as its own rich cultural heritage combined with beautiful landscapes , including rolling hills and picturesque villages.

Even though the majority of the population speaks Luxembourgish, French and German are also spoken here, so you may want to brush up your French knowledge. Regardless of the language you decide to use in Luxembourg, you'll be able to enjoy all that it has to offer including amazing food, wine and beer culture, pleasant landscapes, and many more.

Of course, there are many other French-speaking countries that are worth visiting. Apart from the ones above, we recommend visiting some of the following:

• Martinique – This island is known for its stunning natural beauty and its diverse culture.
• Seychelles – A group of islands in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles are a great place to go to if you’re looking for a way to relax and take it easy.
• Guadeloupe – Another beautiful Caribbean island, Guadeloupe is one of the best destinations if you want to experience some of the best beaches in the world.
• French Polynesia – If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, look no further than French Polynesia! This group of islands is home to some amazing scenery and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
• Réunion – A volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean, Réunion is a unique destination that has something for everyone: tasty traditional food and drinks, stunning nature, pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, and comfortable hiking trails.
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon – This group of islands is located just off the coast of Newfoundland and it’s well worth visiting if you get the chance.
• Mayotte – A French island territory located near Madagascar, Mayotte boasts stunning beaches as well as beautiful mountain ranges.
• New Caledonia – Closely linked to Australia, New Caledonia is a stunning destination with some amazing scenery.
• Democratic Republic of Congo - The most populous French-speaking country, gifted by amazing nature.
• Ivory Coast, or Côte d'Ivoire - Located in West Africa, this country offers some of the most beautiful beaches and bays in the whole world.

There are plenty of reasons to visit French-speaking countries from our list. Whether you're looking for amazing food and wine, stunning natural beauty, or an opportunity to practice your language skills, these places have something to offer everyone. In addition, each of these countries has its own unique culture and history that is worth discovering.

Moreover, when you visit a French-speaking country, you will have the opportunity to practice your language skills in a natural setting. This can help you improve your fluency and pronunciation, as well as learn more about the culture and customs of the French-speaking people.

Beata Hardzei

Beata Hardzei loves languages and shares this passion through her writing. Speaking English, Polish, Russian, and French, she explores the nuances of foreign languages, aiming to make learning feel more like a journey than a task. Beata's background as a teacher and translator enriches her insights, helping you see language learning as an accessible, enriching experience.

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39 Must-Visit French Speaking Countries/ Territories

It would be a very nice idea to visit all of the 38 French Speaking Countries and Territories (French Polynesia, Clipperton, Quebec, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Haiti, Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthelemy, Guadeloupe, Martinique, France, Guyana, Mayotte, Reunion, Crozet, Amsterdam, Saint-Paul, Kerguelen, New Caledonia, Wallis-et-Futuna, Belgique, Suisse, Mauritanie, Senegal, Mali, Guinee, Cote D’Ivoire, Burikina Faso, Niger, Tchad, Cameroun, Benin, Togo, Rep Centraficaine, Rep Dem Du Congo, Gabon, Congo, Seychelle, Maurice, Madagascar, Vanuatu).

It is actually part of the 35 Travel Goals After the COVID lockdown article I wrote during this time of the pandemic. As I still do not have a job and I have already written out my Americas tour plan first quarter of next year, I am now researching about places I can visit in these 38 French Speaking Countries and Territories. I am also preparing for it linguistically as I am now on a very competitive French learner level in Duolingo.

Here are our 38 Must-Visit French Speaking Countries/ Territories. (Note: we checked out some instagram photos and posted below for inspiration.) We will be replacing below instagram photos with our own once we visited any of those countries. We will also add the blog links. Hopefully, as soon as possible!

1.) Saint-Paul

I just found out that it is just a small volcanic outcrop in the Indian Ocean. No one really lives here except the French Weather Scientist who comes here from time to time.

2.) Martinique

Places to visit are Mount Pelee, Beaches such as Grande Anse des Salines Beach, Anse Dufour (Les Anses d’Arlet), Les Salines Beach (Saint-Anne), Anse Couleuvre (Le Precheur), Anse Noire (Les Anses d’Arlet), La Pointe Marin (Saint-Anne), Petit Anse (Les Anses d’Arlet), Anse Mabouya (Sainte-Luce), Baie d’Anse Mitan (Les Trois Ilets), Ilet Chevalier (Saint-Anne), L’Habitation Clément (Rum distillery), The Caravelle, Dubuc Castle, The Amazing Balata Garden, Fort-de-France and Cap 110 Memorial Park.

Places to visit are Libreville, Loango National Park, Pongara, Fernan Vaz Lagoon, Ivindo National Park, Makokou & Kongou Falls, Franceville, Port-Gentil, Point Denis, Réserve de la Lopé, Lastoursville, Lambaréné, Minkébé National Park, Mayumba National Park, and Akanda National Park.

4.) Vanuatu

Places to visit are Tanna Island, Espiritu Santo Island, Port Vila, Efate Island, Malekula Island.

5.) Belgium

Places to visit are Bruges, Ghent, Durbuy, Antwerp, Ypres, The Hoge Kempen National Park, Leuven, Brussels, Mons, Spa, Namur, Liege, The Ardennes, Ostend, Bastogne.

6.) Madagascar

Places to visit are Ranomafana National Park, Masoala National Park, Andasibe-Mantadia, Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, Ifaty, Avenue of the Baobabs, Nosy Be, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Isalo National Park, and Ile Sainte Marie.

7.) Democractic Republic of the Congo

Places to visit are Kinshasa, Lola Ya Bonobo, Kahuzi Biega National Park, Nyiragongo Volcano, Virunga National Park, Lake Kivu, Garamba National Park, Salonga National Park, Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Maiko, Falls of Zongo, Boyoma Falls, Idjwi, Kisangani.

Places to visit are Cotonou, Ouidah, Porto Novo, Abomey, Grand-Popo, Natitingou, Bohicon, Tanguieta, Parakou, Lake Nokoue, Tchaourou, Nikki, Pehunco, Boukoumbe, Malanville.

9.) Cameroon

Places to visit are Yaounde, Maroua, Limbe, Douala, Waza National Park, Bamenda, Foumban, Bafoussam, Kribi, Korup National Park, Dja Faunal Reserve, Mefou National Park, Dschang, Garoua, and Campo Ma’an National Park.

10.) Central African Republic

Places to visit are Bangui, Zinga, Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park, Dzanga-Ndoki National Park, Boali, Chinko Nature Reserve, Andre Felix National Park, Bouar, Kembe, Lobaye, Birao, Mbaiki, Bamingui, Bimbo, Berberati.

Places to visit are N’Djamena, Sarh, Faya-Largeau, Zakouma National Park, Am Timan, Bol, Ennedi, The Lakes of Ouianga, Tibesti Mountains, Moundou, Douguia, Abeche, Aouk National Park, and Goz Beida.

12.) Mauritania

Places to visit are Chinguetti, Nouakchott, Atar, Terjit, Banc d’Arguin, Ouadâne, Tichit, Oualâta, Nouadhibou, Kiffa, Néma, Kaédi, Sélibaby, Zouérat, Diawling National Park.

13.) Seychelles

Places to visit are Mahé Island, Praslin Island, La Digue Island, Cousine Island, Aride Island, Bird Island, Moyenne Island, Silhouette Island, Aldabra Island, Fregate Island, Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, Anse Source D’Argent, Beau Vallon Beach, Anse Intendance, Vallée de Mai National Park, Sainte Anne Marine National Park, Morne Seychellois National Park, Seychelles Natural History Museum, Domaine de Val des Prés, Rita’s Art Studio And Gallery, Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, The Little Ben Clock Tower,  Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Immaculate Conception, Mission Lodge Lookout.

Places to visit are Kpalime, Koutammakou, Lome, Togoville, Agbodrafo, Aneho, Fazao Malfakassa National Park, Keran National Park, Fosse aux Lions National Park, Sokode, Kara, Bassar, Mango, Atakpame, Tsevie.

15.) Senegal

Places to visit are Dakar, Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor, Popenguine, Touba, Joal-Fadiouth, Kafountine, Tambacounda, Kaolack, Kedougou, Mboro, Palmarin, Fatick, Thies, Richard Toll.

16.) New Caledonia

Places to visit are Mont Dore, Musée de la Seconde Guerre Mondiale (WWII Museum), La Parc de la Rivière Bleue, Fort Tereka, Ile aux Canard (Duck Island), Phare Amédée, Musée de la Nouvelle Calédonie.

17.) Wallis and Futuna

Places to visit are Basilica of St. Peter Channel in Poi, Lalolalo Lake, Lanu’tavake, Le Toagatoto, Loka Cave, Mata-Utu Cathedral , Talietumu (Kolo Noi), and Tepa Church.

18.) Guyana

Places to visit are Georgetown, Linden, Kanuku Mountains, Bartica, New Amsterdam, Port Mourant, Kaieteur National Park, Orinduik Falls, Parika, Shell Beach, Mount Roraima, Iwokrama Forest, Kamarang, Fair View, Anna Regina.

19.) Kerguelen Islands

Places to visit are Courbet Peninsula, Péninsule Rallier du Baty, Péninsule Gallieni, Péninsule Loranchet, Péninsule Jeanne d’Arc, Presqu’île Ronarc’h, Presqu’île de la Société de Géographie, Presqu’île Joffre, Presqu’île du Prince de Galles and Presqu’île du Gauss.

20.) France

Places to visit are Paris & Versailles, The Charming Countryside of Provence, The Côte d’Azur, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, The Châteaux of the Loire Valley, Reims & its Magnificent Gothic Cathedral, Fishing Villages, Historic Ports & Beaches in Brittany,  Biarritz & Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Joan of Arc Monuments in Chinon, Rouen & Orléans, The Alsace Region, Mont-Blanc & Annecy in the French Alps, Prehistoric Caves in the Dordogne & the Pyrenees, Rocamadour: A Medieval Pilgrimage Destination, Bordeaux & Saint-Émilion, The Burgundy Region: Quintessential France, Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrenees Mountains, Lourdes: France’s Biggest Catholic Pilgrimage Site, Gourmet Restaurants & Cultural Attractions in Lyon, Gascony Region & Toulouse in the South of France, The Camargue, Island of Corsica.

21.) Guadeloupe

Places to visit are Pointe des Chateaux, Guadeloupe National Park, La Soufriere Volcano, beaches and distilleries of Marie-Galante, Pointe-a-Pitre, Carbet Falls, Rum Museum, Plage La Grande-Anse, Zoological and Botanical Park of Guadeloupe, Plage Caravelle, La Desirade, the Iles des Saintes, Paradise Kafe, Deshaies Botanical Garden and La Touna.

Places to visit are Zinder, Niamey, Agadez, W National Park, Ayorou, Abaaba National Park, Nguigmi, Maradi, Tahoua, Timia, Kouré, Dosso, Balleyara, Arlit, Diffa.

23.) Burkina Faso

Places to visit are Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Banfora, Gorom Gorom, Tiebele, Arli National Park, The Ruins of Loropeni, W National Park, Nazinga Reserve, Sindou, Ouahigouya, Ziniare, Lake Tengrela, Bangr Weogo Park, Sabou.

24.) Switzerland

Places to visit are Chateau de Chillon, Lake Geneva, The Matterhorn, St Moritz, Rhine Falls, Abbey of Saint Gall, Kapellbrücke.

25.) Guinea- Bissau

Although Guinea-Bissau is a portuguese speaking country, French is a mandatorily learned in schools. Places to visit are Orango Island, Bubaque Island, Dulombi-Boe National Park, João Vieira Island, Bissau, Bafatá, Lagoas Cufada Natural Park, Cacheu, Bolama Island, Varela, Rubane Island, Gabú, Farim, Saltinho, Florestas de Castanhez National Park.

26.) Cote d’Ivoire

Places to visit are Grand-Bassam, Abidjan, Man, Taï National Park, Jacqueville, San-Pédro, Yamoussoukro, Korhogo, Bouaké, Comoe National Park, Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve, Assouinde, Sassandra, Marahoué National Park and Abengourou.

27.) Mauritius

Places to visit are Trou Aux Biches, Belle Mare Plage, Ile Aux Cerfs, Pereybere, La Cambuse, Le Morne , Ilot Gabriel Beach, Chamarel Coloured Earth, La Cuvette Beach, Flic En Flac Beach, Mont Choisy Beach, Poste Lafayette Beach, Black River Gorges National Park, Casela World of Adventures, Parc Francois Leguat, Trou Aux Cerfs, Tamarind Waterfalls, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, Rochester Falls, Mauritius National Botanical Garden, La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park, La Vanille Crocodile Park, Casela Nature Park Segway Tour, Chamarel Waterfalls, Blue Bay Marine Park, Le Pouce, Eureka House , Photo Museum, Sugar Museum, Blue Penny Museum, Light House of Albion, Mahebourg, Grand Bassin, Mauritius Photography Museum, Rodrigues, Aapravasi Ghat , Chateau De Labourdonnais, L’Aventure du Sucre, Champ de Mars Racecourse, Grand Baie Bazaar, Port Louis Market, Moka, Flic En Flac, Mahebourg Market, Le Craft Market, Quatre Bornes Market, Flacq Market , Bagatelle Mall .

Places to visit are Timbuktu, Gao, Bamako, Djenné, Mopti, Ségou, Hombori, Sikasso, Kayes, Boucle du Baoulé National Park, Ansongo, Kidal, Douentza, Bandiagara, Taoudenni.

29.) Saint Martin

Places to visit are Red Bay, Orient Bay, Maho Beach, Fort Louis, Loterie Farm, Seaside Nature Park, Friar’s Bay, Good Life Spa, Pinel Island.

30.) Mayotte

Places to visit are Mont Choungi, The islet of Saziley, The Coconi botanic gardens, N’Gouja beach, Lake Karihani, Dzaoudzi village, The fields of the Guerlain plantation, The 210 steps of Acoua, The small town of Mamoudzou, The Bouéni peninsula.

Places to visit are Bassin Bleu, Port Salut, Labadee, Kokoye Beach, Il’s-a-Rat Beach, Gelee Beach, Wahoo Beach, Saut Mathurine, Citadelle Laferriere, Jacmel Beach, Site des Ramiers, Cormier Plage, The Palace of Sans-Souci, Chouchou Bay Beach, Grann Do Beach, Port-Au-Prince and Around, Cap Haitien, Jeremie, Les Cayes, Furcy.

32.) Crozet

As per research it is inaccessible to the public. The place has been cited though in novels such as Moby Dick, Desolation Island, and Biggles Cuts Its Fine.

33.) Saint Barthelemy

Places to visit are Gustavia, Colombier, Saint-Jean beach, Gouverneur beach, The fishing village of Corossol, The coconut grove in Anse de Marigot, Grande Saline Beach, Anse des Flamands, Anse de Grand Cul-de-Sac, Fort Gustav.

34.) Reunion

Places to visit are Le Piton de la Fournaise, Cite du Volcan Musuem, The Natural History Museum, Saint Paul’s Market, La Saga du Rhum Museum, Musee de Villele.

35.) Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Places to visit are The colourful wooden houses of Saint-Pierre, The island of Grand Colombier, Cap Persé, The L’Anse à Henry archaeological site on Saint-Pierre, L’Arche Museum & Archives in Saint-Pierre, The Île aux Marins and its Archipelitude Museum in Saint-Pierre, The Grand Barachois lagoon on Miquelon, The Cap de Miquelon nature reserve, The La Cormorandière valley in Miquelon, The Cap au Diable on Saint-Pierre.

36.) French Polynesia

Places to visit are Bora Bora, Moorea, Nuva hiva, Tahiti, Caroline Island, Tubuai, Mataiva, Puka-Puka, Raivavae, Eiao.

37.) Clipperton Island

It is actually a coral atoll south of Mexico and west of Guatemala. It is an uninhabited island.

38.) Quebec, Canada

Quebec is one of the provinces of Canada. Places to visit are Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, La Citadelle de Québec, Quartier Petit Champlain, Plains of Abraham, Museum of Civilization, Parliament Building, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Aquarium of Quebec, Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, Place Royale, The Battlefields Park, Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site of Canada.

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Interesting … will have to learn French to visit these countries

Thank you.. hopefully, I can visit each country.

Bookmarking this.

Thank you so much

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5 French-Speaking Countries To Visit (Part 1 Of 6)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2019
• Post category: General wanderlust / Travel inspiration
• Post comments: 2 Comments

When North Americans think about French-speaking countries, our minds usually go straight to France. We dream about walks along the Seine river, climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower, and grabbing pastries at one of many classic cafés along the rue. But did you know there are many francophone countries in the world?

Many places recognize French as an official language. In this series of articles, you’ll find out about the endless experiences you can have from visiting new French-speaking countries in all corners of the world. Plus, with our cheap flight deals , you’ll find affordable flights to many of these destinations (and if not, we’ll share good tips).

The French language, if you don’t already know, is beautiful—like music to our ears. It’s also a language that can connect you to multiple people and cultures around the world. From Europe to the Caribbean to Africa and Oceania (not to mention both North and South America), many different people speak French and its various dialects.

French is arguably the second most global language, after English. The list of French-speaking destinations goes on and on. Some are actual countries, but we’ve also included territories and regions because they have their own identity.

So after looking at Portuguese-speaking countries to visit , let’s dive into exactly where you can immerse yourself in the lovely French language and its affiliated culture. Here’s part 1 of 6.

First on the list, of course, is France. This country is the heart of the French language, where it all began. It’s also the reason that you’ll hear French in so many other parts of the world. So, when you visit, dive into that rich and long history. 

Why visit France?

Please, please, please remember that there are so many more options than just visiting Paris (you can read the 5 best regions to visit in France that aren’t Paris or the French Riviera ).

Of course, Paris is charming, and I do suggest going someday (I loved it both times I went, despite the cost of living and the hords of tourists). However, keep in mind the rich culture and history that lies beyond the city’s limits.

Other cities worth visiting include Bordeaux, Toulouse (the pink city), Montpellier (pictured above), Lyon, and even Strasbourg. Personally, I spent over a week in Chamonix in the Alps during the summer, and it was amazing. Our few days in Nantes for a convention showed us a different side of the country, as did our brief time in Marseille.

Here are 3 places to check out:

• Normandy and Omaha Beach: This area overflows with World War II history, from the D-Day beaches and American Cemetery to immense museums that leave you in shock and awe.
• Saint-Malo: This lovely walled port city on the coast of the English Channel takes you back in time. It’s one of the last cities in France that still has its entire rampart intact. Have a stroll, get lost in the narrow streets, and eat some galettes while you sip on locally-made hard cider.
• Alsace: This is a region in the northeast part of France, near the German and Swiss borders. Rich with World War II history, too, here you’ll learn how the German and French cultures have melded over many centuries. Some cool spots include Strasbourg and Colmar—two quaint cities where you’ll get lost in their beautiful architecture.

How to get to France for cheap

There are often deals to Paris from most Canadian cities. It’s often one of the cheapest European cities to fly to. So be on the lookout for deals or search for Paris in our favorite flight search tool if you aren’t flexible at all on dates.

If that is the case, or if flights are expensive, make sure to check if flights to nearby countries are cheaper: it’s very easy and affordable to move around in Western Europe. We’ll share a detailed article on that soon, subscribe for free to get it.

The tiny country, surrounded by France on 3 sides and the Mediterranean Sea is on the other, has been its own country since 1297 and is a constitutional monarchy. Its primary language is French, even though the country’s inhabitants speak Italian, English, and the local language of Monégasque, as well.

Why visit Monaco?

Despite being the second smallest country in the world, Monaco is jam-packed with famous hotspots, restaurants, clubs, and resorts. If you’re a millionaire, you’ll especially enjoy visiting Monaco.

Despite what many believe because I’ve been on 12 international trips in 2019, I for one am not a millionaire, so I’ve avoided the country up to now (although on my quest to visit all of them, I’ll have to go eventually).

Seriously, you have to stop believing the myth that travel is expensive and start making decisions that enable you to travel more if that’s what you want, it’s far from being hard or expensive. I’ll share a cheat sheet with my Top 5 tips to travel more, the very best of the best. Coming in January.

So about Monaco, if you’re into fast cars, gambling, lounging by the pool with a drink in your hand, or taking out your yacht, this is the place for you. The city of Monte-Carlo is distinguished and expensive, but always a good time. You can enjoy an evening at the Monte-Carlo Casino playing poker or blackjack, or you can find another spot to enjoy the city.

Also, once a year, this country hosts the Monaco Grand Prix, an annual race along the Monaco circuit that spans the majority of the small country.

How to get to Monaco for cheap

Monaco obviously doesn’t have an airport: the country’s land area is smaller than the surface area most major airports cover. In fact, Denver International Airport in the US is 60 times larger than all of Monaco. In short, there’s no room for an airport there.

So you can take advantage of deals to Nice, the closest airport, which are relatively frequent. Or search for Nice (NCE) in our favorite flight search tool and follow the same tips as for France in #1 about the neighboring countries.

3. Switzerland

I never thought I’d write this sentence, but let’s move on to a cheaper destination: Switzerland. This is also one of the most expensive countries in the world, but it is one of the most geographically breathtaking countries in Europe thanks to the majestic Alps that dominate most of the landscape. 

Fun fact: From 1798 to 1815, Switzerland was under French control after Emperor Napoleon conquered it. Other than sharing a border, the Napoleon Era deeply impacted the cultural and linguistic aspects of Western Switzerland, the area where French is most spoken in the country.

In fact, by just looking at a map , it’s hard to understand why Geneva isn’t part of France, as it’s surrounded on 3 sides.

Why visit Switzerland?

Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, strolling romantic cities, and boating are but a few of the fun activities you can do in Switzerland. At least, if you want to pay the same price for a 2-week trip as I did for my 12 trips. Okay, that’s a slight exaggeration, but it’s not that far from the truth.

I visited Zurich and Lausanne briefly (I prefer to travel more and therefore visit cheaper places as you’ve probably figured out by now) and of course it’s beautiful. There are plenty of other places to visit, like Geneva, Lucerne, and the capital, Bern. Each has a unique style and language.

You see, Switzerland has 4 official languages. In the central part, most inhabitants speak a version of German (63% of the total population); in the west, it’s French (23%); in the south, it’s Italian (9%); and finally, in the east, there is Romansh (0.5%). The shared borders have allowed for a fascinating cultural and linguistic influence. 

How to get to Switzerland for cheap

Switzerland is a great example of how much money you can save with the multi-ticket technique. Just by buying your itinerary on separate tickets, you can save hundreds of dollars.

For example, Montreal-Geneva is almost always $1,000 roundtrip. Montreal-Paris is almost always under $700 roundtrip. Paris-Geneva is often $100 roundtrip. That’s an easy $200 in savings by just knowing the easy trick, and not prioritizing convenience over affordability, the most common mistake by those who believe in the myth that travel is expensive.

Let me remind you that $200 gives you more than a full week of travel, all expenses included… as well as a dozen other things in our list of stuff you can easily afford if you want to travel more .

You can also search for Geneva (GVA), Zurich (ZRH), or Basel (BSL) in our favorite flight search tool if you prefer convenience.

Belgium is located smack-dab in between the Netherlands and northern France. Its rich culture, which is a mix of French, German, and Dutch, leaves visitors overwhelmed (in a good way) with cuisine, language, and great-tasting beer.

Why visit Belgium?

This country’s location makes it great as a trip on its own or even a stopover on your way to somewhere else. There are many areas to explore from the capital Brussels to Bruges, a quaint village with cute canals and brick and wooden homes that seem like a fairytale.

Brussels was one of the first cities I explored in Western Europe, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. I’ll share more in the article about the Dutch-speaking countries, just to keep this one a bit shorter.

Here are a few things to do:

• Grand-Place de Bruxelles : Located in the heart of the city, the Grand-Place is a beautiful pedestrian square in front of City Hall. Adore its divine architecture and stop by one of the cafés for a drink and a quaint conversation (hopefully in French).
• Eat fries and chocolate: sure, their beers and mussels are also iconic, but I am not a consumer of either. But I can confirm that their Belgian fries and chocolates are delicious.
• Château des Comtes des Flandres:  An old Flemish castle in the town of Gand is a historical journey for anyone curious about ancient cultures and traditions. Located in northern Belgium, you’ll also see more Dutch ways of life and the different languages within. 

How to get to Belgium for cheap

Deals to Belgium are a lot less frequent than to France. That being said, it’s easy to get there by train or bus from either Paris or Amsterdam (or even London if the flights there are a lot cheaper).

Again, it pays to invest time in research: Barcelona is often cheap from Canada, and from Barcelona to Brussels’ secondary airport (CRL), flights are often under $100 roundtrip.

So search for Brussels (BRU) or Brussels-Charleroi (CRL) in our favorite flight search tool .

5. Luxembourg

Next, we have the microstate of Luxembourg nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany. Its French influence is self-explanatory. Being on the border of France and Germany, both have had much cultural impact over centuries and centuries. 

Why visit Luxembourg?

Luxembourg may be small, but it has a lot to offer. From castles to ancient Roman ruins, the country will keep you on your toes. I can’t wait to go as I love the less-visited destinations (and it’s one of the few left for me in Europe).

Here are some things to check out:

• Château de Vianden:  Explore a centuries-old castle that was built over an ancient Roman castle. 
• Luxembourg City and Pont Aldophe:  Marking Luxembourg’s independence, the bridge in the capital was built in the early 1900s by a Frenchman and a Luxembourgish and has now become one the city’s most famous tourist attractions.

How to get to Luxembourg for cheap

Like all smaller destinations, you should really avoid buying on only one ticket, since it’s really expensive. Luxembourg is accessible without flying from Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt or even Zurich. But if you really want to fly in, combine tickets.

Again, this is just one example found with literally 20 seconds of research, but Barcelona-Luxembourg is often $100 roundtrip. You’ll almost always save many hundreds of dollars by buying a flight from Canada to Barcelona instead of Canada to Luxembourg. More money saved… plus you’ll get to visit Barcelona as a bonus!!!

Search for Luxembourg (LUX) in our favorite flight search tool . 

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As you will soon see, the French language is still found in many different parts of the world—nearly every continent. If you’re a lover of the French language, then we at Flytrippers suggest that you choose one of these destinations as your next trip. Don’t miss the next part of the series soon.

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what about Québec !!

We’ve included Canada of course, it’s in the upcoming 5 other parts of the 6-part series! You can subscribe to our free newsletter to make sure you get it first: https://flytrippers.com/newsletter/

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A breakthrough guide to all 40 French speaking countries & territories

Marco Monroy

They say learning a language can take you places, but did you know just how many countries you can go to when you learn French?

Whether you’re just getting started with the ABCs in French or are already an intermediate speaker and want to put your language chops to the test, you may wonder: where do people actually speak French in the world?

Just as English is a global language, French is also spoken far and wide, including in many places that you may not have imagined. After English, French is used as the national language of more countries than any other language globally.

That means that if you speak English and French, you will be able to speak the two most international languages! Talk about becoming a world citizen, huh?

Besides France, French is spoken in dozens of countries in every single continent in the world. Thanks to French speaking countries, French Overseas Territories, and speakers of French as a foreign language, you can feel rest assured that speaking French is a skill that will come in handy all around the world.

Ready to learn just how massive the Francosphere is? Let’s get into it!

How many French speaking countries are there in the world?

Formally, 29 countries use French as the national or official language . Additionally, France has 11 Overseas Territories , which are administrative subdivisions of France outside of the mainland. These are similar to what Puerto Rico is to the United States.

These countries and regions are spread out all over the globe, with at least one in each of the following regions:

• The Caribbean
• North America
• South America

And, if you include countries where French is used as an administrative language (a step-down from the official language), you can add Laos and Cambodia, which get you francophone countries in every single continent!

French speaking countries

At this point, you might be dying to find out exactly which countries speak French. If you’re studying French online or at home, it may be hard to visualize just how many countries speak French.

To make the list more manageable, we’ll break down the countries that speak French by continent or region. We’ll also provide you with more information about each country, such as its population, flag, and capital.

That way, you’ll more easily understand the true extent of the French language worldwide. If you’re familiar with French slang, seeing the geographic reach of the language may help you put things into perspective. Geographic diversity usually translates into linguistic diversity when it comes to language, and how could this not be the case with so many different cultures using French to communicate?

The data in the following sections are taken from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie and Laval University in Québec.

Without further ado, let’s get started with our French speaking countries list!

French speaking countries of Africa

Africa is — by far — the continent with the most countries that speak French. It’s also the continent with the most French speakers. Oh, and the most populous country that uses French as its national language? That’s in Africa too.

In fact, French has become somewhat of a lingua franca in most of Eastern Africa. Whereas countries in Northern Africa tend to use Arabic as lingua franca , countries in Central Africa use Swahili, and countries in Southern Africa use English, most of the East uses French.

Here are the 21 African countries that use French as a national or official language.

French speaking countries of Europe

Of course, we all know French is spoken in France. But did you know that there are four other countries in Europe that speak French? Try to see if you can guess which ones before you look at our table below!

French speaking countries and cities of North America

If you live in the United States, you probably already know that Canada has a French speaking region. Québec, the largest territory of Canada, speaks almost exclusively French with over 93% of its population being able to speak the language. New Brunswick also has a significant French speaking population, with 42% of residents being able to speak it.

French speaking countries of the Caribbean

You might be surprised to learn that there is only one country in the Caribbean that uses French as its national language. But what about Martinique? What about Guadeloupe? St. Barts??? Well, those are all Overseas France, which means they are technically French territory!

French speaking countries of Oceania

Yep, French is spoken even all the way in Oceania! Australia and New Zealand are commonly referred to as “the Antipodes,” which means the point on Earth that is the diametrical opposite of where you are. In this case, Oceania in general is the antipode of Europe. So, yeah, French somehow made it all the way to the antipode of France!

French Overseas Territories where French is spoken

As mentioned earlier, France has significant overseas territories that are considered French soil for all intents and purposes. Most of these territories have their own senators, and up until recently had their own representation at the European Parliament . So, even though they aren’t sovereign nations, they should count as countries for our purposes.

Where else is French spoken where it’s not an official language?

Just because French isn’t an official language of a country doesn’t mean that it isn’t widely spoken. There are many countries around the world with a significant francophone population. At least 10% of the population of all of the countries in the table below speak French.

Honorable mentions of other countries where French is spoken

French is an extremely popular language worldwide. Even if a country doesn’t have any significant ties to France or the former French Empire, it’s still very common for people to choose to study French as a foreign language. The countries in the table below all have at least half a million French speakers.

How many people in the world speak French?

As of 2022, there are over 321 million French speakers all over the world. Perhaps surprisingly, fewer than 100 million of them speak French as their native language. This makes French one of the languages with the most non-native speakers in relation to native speakers!

There are two main reasons why this happens. First, there are many countries that use French as one of the official languages. This means there are multiple official languages within a country, and French becomes the lingua franca .

Second, French is one of the most popular languages to learn worldwide ! Perhaps it's due to the powerful influence of French culture around the world, including its cuisine, media, literature, and arts. Or perhaps there’s something intrinsically appealing in French. Either way, students all over the globe can’t get enough of French!

What are the countries with the most French speakers?

Unsurprisingly, France is the country with the most French speakers worldwide. But can you guess which countries follow? Maybe Canada, Belgium, or Switzerland? Nope! Check out our table below to find out which are the five countries with the most French speakers in the world (the last one might surprise you!).

How French became a global language

After getting through this article, you may be wondering just how French became such a global phenomenon.

Of course, English is the current global language in part thanks to the massive English-speaking economies of the US, the UK, Australia, Canada, and other countries with significant anglophiles like India, Nigeria, and the Philippines. So, how did France manage to make its language so global?

Well, there are quite a few reasons. Let’s get into some of the most important ones.

Influence within Europe

One of the first instances of French being used outside of France was in the 11th century, much before the French even began thinking about exploring the world outside of Europe. The English aristocracy adopted French for official and legal use within the English court system and upper society. In fact, French was used in English legislation until the Proceedings in Courts of Justice Act of 1730, which replaced French and Latin with English as the official language of the English courts.

Keep in mind that this was a time when Latin dominated Europe. Virtually all scientific, academic, and political discourse across Medieval Europe was carried out in Latin. That is, of course, until French replaced Latin as the European lingua franca for international treaties.

It all started with the Peace of Westphalia Treaty , which marked the end of the Eight Years’ War. This was the first international document of major significance that was written entirely in French. After this, French started to slowly supplant Latin as the most important lingua franca in Europe.

Fast-forward a few centuries (and a handful of Napoleonic Wars ), and French had become the most important language among the educated all across Europe by the 19th century. Even the Russian nobility spoke French, with Prince Dmitry Golitsyn famously speaking terrible Russian with a thick French accent.

French colonization

Outside of Europe, French became an important language because of French colonization. The French Empire was at one point the second-largest empire in the world and still remains one of the largest empires in the history of humanity.

As the French Empire grew, so did the reach of the French language all over the world. France ended up having over 60 colonies in every corner of the Earth. Most former colonies still have significant French speaking populations today, and some still use French as the national language.

As discussed earlier, some of the remnants of the French Empire were incorporated into France as Overseas Territories, so the impact and influence of France’s colonial ambitions can still be felt today.

Belgian colonization

Despite France having a much bigger empire, we cannot forget about the Belgian Empire and its influence on the Francosphere. Despite not being nearly as far-reaching, the Belgian Empire did establish colonies in Africa, Asia, and North America.

By far, the most significant linguistic consequence of the Belgian Empire is the francophonie in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As mentioned earlier in this article, the D.R. Congo is the most populous French speaking country. Not only that, but its population is expected to more than triple to 360 million people by the year 2099.

So, it turns out Belgium is actually responsible for the largest French speaking country today!

French diplomacy

France has historically made strides to institutionalize and internationalize French as a language. Starting with the Académie Française in 1635, France has done more than any other country to preserve and disseminate its language.

Today, the Alliance Française is the organization in charge of promoting French culture and language all over the world. With close to a thousand institutes in over 130 countries worldwide, Alliance Française centers are places where students can watch French movies, borrow or purchase French books, and learn more about the French language and French culture.

The success of Alliance Française is hard to be overstated, as it is the oldest and largest of all European language institutes, including the British Council, the Goethe Institute, and the Cervantes Institute.

Official language of international organizations

Finally, French is an official language of many important international organizations. This ensures that French stays relevant for international actors today.

Some of the most important organizations in which French is an official or working language are:

• The United Nations
• The World Trade Organization
• The European Union
• The International Court of Justice
• The International Red Cross
• The International Olympic Committee

And many, many more!

The future of the French language

With France’s deep history, it’s easy to think of French as a dying (or waning , at best) language. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Forbes called French the language of the future !

By 2065, French is expected to have over one billion speakers . That’s more than triple the current number of French speakers in a matter of fewer than 50 years! If these predictions are accurate, then French will displace Spanish and Arabic in terms of total number of speakers.

This growth is largely due to the developing francophone countries, which are expected to grow tremendously over the next few decades. In particular, Africa — where French is one of the three lingua franca along with English and Arabic — is expected to experience a population boom unlike anything ever seen before.

As of 2022, there are 1,406,722,629 people living in Africa. By 2065, it is expected that there will be 3,108,925,401 people . That’s more than twice the current population and a net gain of over one and half billion people!

This is where most of the growth in global francophones will come from. As francophone African countries like D.R. Congo, Cameroon, and Madagascar double or even triple their population over the next few decades, the use of French will continue to increase worldwide.

FAQs about countries that speak French

Is french still useful worldwide.

Of course! In addition to being an official language of 29 countries around the world, French is an extremely useful language to learn for business or otherwise . Bloomberg ranked French as the third most useful language for business, only after English and Mandarin.

French is also ranked as the third most powerful language by the Power Language Index . Again, French is third only after English and Mandarin. The index takes into account geography, economy, communication, media, and diplomacy.

Is French or Spanish more useful?

In general, French is more useful than Spanish as it’s considered to be a better language for business and a more powerful language according to the Power Language Index. However, Spanish could be more useful for you depending on where you live. If you live in the United States, then learning Spanish will almost undoubtedly be more helpful than French.

What country has the best French accent?

Metropolitan French — also known as Parisian French — is generally considered to be the best French accent. That is because it’s considered to be standard or “accentless” French. Of course, whether or not Metropolitan French is the best accent or not ultimately depends on who you ask!

If you’re trying to find the best French accent for learners, then the Southern French accent may be what you’re looking for. People in the South of France tend to speak much more slowly and clearly than Parisians, making them easier to understand for foreign language learners.

Is African French different from French from France?

African French is entirely based on standard French. However, with over 20 different countries in Africa using French as an official language, it is only natural for African French to vary somewhat from Metropolitan French.

And that’s part of what makes French such a fun language! With dozens of countries using French as a national language, you can imagine how much fun slang there is! Luckily, you don’t have to imagine it—just check out our blog with 275 French slang words and phrases!

Keep up with the Francosphere

Hopefully, this blog has helped inspire you to continue or begin learning French ! Now that you’re aware of all the places French can take you, what’s stopping you from jumping headfirst into your next French lesson?

And if you can’t get enough of French and want to learn more now, then check out our French blog for more awesome (and free!) content.

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Best places to visit in france.

France is home to some of the most lively cities, bucolic villages and renowned wine regions on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you're seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you'll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year's ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France.

Mont Saint-Michel

Montpellier, french alps, chamonix-mont-blanc, aix-en-provence, loire valley.

As the world's best place to visit , it's no surprise that the electrifying City of Light tops this list. France's capital city is a year-round tourist destination with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower and incredible architecture (think: the dazzling Basilique du Sacré-Coeur). Not to mention, Paris offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes and more museums than you could hope to visit in one trip. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you're looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring.

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German culture thanks to its location on the France-Germany border. While here, travelers should see Strasbourg's Gothic-style cathedral and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petite France quarter with its half-timbered houses and postcard-worthy waterways. Plus, those with an interest in politics can tour several important European institutions during their visit, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of charm, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the archangel Michael, the island's namesake, repeatedly appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches in dreams, telling him to build a church on top of the island in A.D. 708. Since its completion, it has become an important pilgrimage site for Christians and European intellectuals. Visitors can tour the picturesque abbey and admire its incredible medieval architecture or wander its surrounding streets, which are lined with tiny shops and quaint cafes.

Dubbed La Ville Rose due to the prominence of distinctive clay bricks in its architecture, Toulouse is a feast for the eyes. Throughout this city, which is located in the South of France, you'll find marvels like the neoclassical Le Capitole on the main square, the stately Basilica of Saint-Sernin (an 11th-century UNESCO site) and the Hôtel d’Assézat, which houses a noteworthy art gallery. What's more, several canals with shady footpaths pass through the city, including the idyllic Canal du Midi. For some of the best views of Toulouse, take a cruise on the River Garonne, or just sunbathe on its banks.

Sunny Montpellier glows with a combination of old world charm and a trendy university lifestyle. This city in the south of France evokes Parisian appeal with Haussmann architecture and stylish promenades. And like Paris, adornment is everywhere in Montpellier, from fashionable boutiques to street art to France's oldest botanical garden. Plus, since Montpellier is located 7 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is close at hand. Once the sun sets, take part in the city's youthful nightlife scene, which includes everything from music halls to dance clubs.

It's easy to see why Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace's wine region, is considered one of France's most beautiful cities. Colorful houses that look as if they belong in a fairy tale line the Little Venice district, where you can take a boat tour through Colmar's canals or reach boutiques and eateries on foot. The setting is picturesque regardless of when you vacation here, but for even more charm, visit Colmar at night when lights illuminate the city during annual events like the Colmar International Festival, Alsace's wine fair and Colmar's Christmas market.

To see some of France's most spectacular art and architecture, head to Avignon. This city in southeastern France is full of stunning structures, including the 14th-century Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, and the arched bridge, Pont d'Avignon. A number of can't-miss museums are spread throughout Avignon as well, such as the Musée Angladon, which houses works by highly regarded artists like Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh. Visit in July to attend the Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's largest performing arts festivals.

If your ideal French vacation involves a little more nature and a little less city, head to the French Alps . Here, you'll find some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as beautiful scenery that rivals any work of art or architecture. In summer, the typically snow-covered mountains thaw just enough to create perfect conditions for hiking and biking. Enchanting villages sit at the base of the range, offering several places to unwind when you've had enough fun on the slopes or trails.

Despite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty and culture. Étretat's white cliffs are a great place to take in the area's natural scenery. Then, visit the region's capital city, Rouen, to admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and stroll past the quaint half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample some of the city's culinary specialties to see why it is now a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Or, see some of the remnants of Normandy's heavy history at the D-Day Landing Beaches and The Bayeux Tapestry.

Glamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city's pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. Be sure to stroll along the coastline's Promenade des Anglais and pick up some fresh flowers and produce at the vibrant Cours Saleya market, located in old town. You'll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October, the area's shoulder seasons.

Often called "France's Isle of Beauty," Corsica features diverse landscapes and a unique culture that make it seem like a miniature continent. The Mediterranean island's clear blue water and white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and kayaking, while its mountainous terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities to hike trails like the highly regarded (albeit challenging) GR20. Those looking to take in some history can visit the Maison Bonaparte museum to see Napoleon's birthplace. What's more, Corsica offers a one-of-a-kind food scene that showcases various local delicacies, such as lonzu (dry-cured ham) and brocciu (cheese).

While it may not be as well known as big-name cities like Paris, Lyon competes with the best of them. Despite being the third-largest city in France, Lyon is much calmer and less touristy than other similarly sized destinations. The streets are filled with public art, including the city's famous trompe l'oeil murals, and there are museums that focus on everything from movies to history. Plus, it's surrounded by hundreds of wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to the longest off-piste run in the world (Vallée Blanche) and rugged, challenging slopes. But this destination, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, offers more than just top-notch skiing. Chamonix is also a great place to go hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. For some family-friendly fun, visit the town's adventure park to zip down its Alpine coaster and various slides.

Quaint, charming Aix-en-Provence is a university city known for its tree-lined boulevards, cute cafes and lively markets. Life moves at a more leisurely pace here than in other French cities, meaning it's the perfect place for travelers to get lost in the scenic streets. Make sure to add Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Le Grand Marché – two of the city's top attractions – to your itinerary. You can also see where artist Paul Cézanne (an Aix-en-Provence native) painted some of his masterpieces at Atelier de Cezanne, or venture outside of the city to see the Provencal scenes that inspired him.

Vincent Van Gogh fans may recognize the streetscapes of Arles: This small city in Provence inspired some of the artist's best-known works with its bright colors and rustic feel. Art aficionados can walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and explore his favorite haunts on a walking tour through this romantic city or visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles. Beyond this noteworthy connection, Arles is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a two-tiered amphitheater, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Constantine Baths. And as the gateway to the Camargue region, Arles is a great base for visitors looking to explore this marshy, flamingo-filled area.

Another popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. Dijon, the region's history-rich capital, makes a great home base for touring the area. And, of course, you can't leave without trying the region's wine, which mainly uses the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

Northwestern France's Brittany region stands out from the rest of the country in more ways than one. Locals are proud and protective of their Celtic heritage, including their unique language, traditions and festivals. As a result, visitors will find many well-preserved historical sites throughout the area, including prehistoric megaliths and medieval towns like Saint-Malo, a popular port town with a 12th-century citadel. Brittany also features breathtaking coastlines with fantastic beaches that are known for their phenomenal waves for surfing, dive spots and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

As the capital of France's Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and those who love bubbly. The city offers many Champagne cellars where visitors can learn about how the popular wine is produced before tasting it. Additionally, Reims features breathtaking Gothic architecture at attractions like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, where 25 French monarchs were crowned between 1223 and 1825, and the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former residence of France's archbishops. No visit would be complete without perusing the exhibits in one of Reims' museums, which cover a range of topics from war history to art and automobiles.

The gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is perfectly situated for touring the region's wineries. But with Tours' historical elements and prime location along the Loire River, you may just want to stay in town. Place Plumereau, a medieval marketplace that remains one of the city's oldest squares, exudes irresistible charm with half-timbered houses, while churches like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral stun with their stately façades. Visitors will also have their pick of green spaces, from parks like Prébendes d’Oé Garden to riverside guinguettes (open-air cafes) at Tours sur Loire. What's more, several of the region's famed châteaux (including the Château de Villandry) sit just outside the city.

For a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries renowned for their sauvignon blanc. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley's laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans and Saumur, and you can't miss the emblematic Château de Chambord.

This wine-producing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With nearly 300,000 acres of vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best (typically bold red) wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public's pathways and flora.

Located on the French Riviera just 8 miles from Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent daytrip. The best way to spend your time in this medieval town is meandering through its cobbled streets that look as though they've been pulled from a postcard. In doing so, you'll find picturesque views of the coast, as well as luxury hotels and shops from another era. Top sights include the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and Jardin Exotique d'Èze, as well as the walking path of Nietzsche, who was inspired to write here. Before leaving town, stop by the Fragonard Parfumeur factory for a fragrant tour.

Located 35 miles northeast of Montpellier, Nîmes delights history buffs with some of the world's best-preserved Roman treasures like its emblematic arena and La Maison Carrée, a temple dating back to 10 B.C. Museums throughout Nîmes also cover its past. But lest you get the wrong impression, Nîmes is anything but stuffy. The city embraces the joie de vivre of the South of France with countless festivals, from structured events like the concert lineups of the Festival de Nîmes to lively Ferias de Nîmes – multi-day celebrations that occur twice a year at Pentecost and in September, and center around bullfighting, dancing and music.

France's oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. Marseille has a number of sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Château d'If, the ominous prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo." When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and secluded beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Mucem, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization. Plus, its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city.

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) other times of the year. Cannes is another French Riviera hot spot that welcomes travelers looking for a little relaxation (think: sun-soaked beaches and meandering walks through the steep streets of Le Suquet, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods). Visitors can sightsee as they stroll along La Croisette, a 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in France — From Normandy to the French Riviera

The best places to visit in France range from iconic landmarks to charming villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Many things entice travelers to visit France — food, wine, fashion, architecture, and natural beauty among them. There’s something wonderful to eat, drink, see, and do in every corner of this Western European nation. It’s hard not to fall in love with Paris . The glamorous beaches along the Côte d'Azur are legendary. Provence also packs a punch with fragrant lavender fields, the hilltop villages of the Luberon , and vineyards. Vines and grand chateaux mix in the Loire Valley . Truth be told, the number of dazzling places within the country is actually quite dizzying, but we’re more than happy to help point you in some of the most photogenic directions. Scroll on for 20 of the best places to visit in France.

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Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Gordes draws heaps of tourists who descend upon this idyllic Luberon village in the hopes of capturing the perfect shot of its cobbled lanes, time-worn churches, and 12th-century Sénanque Abbey framed by lavender fields.

Palace of Versailles

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Whether you’re a film buff, love history, or simply want to tick one of France’s most famous landmarks off your sightseeing list, the grandeur of Versailles never fails to impress. The palace is home to the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and many other opulent rooms. Outside are the magnificent gardens, fountains, and sprawling park.

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Camargue doesn’t look or feel like anywhere else in southern France. This wild region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta brims with the untamed natural beauty of salt marshes, reed beds, free-roaming white horses, and hundreds of bird species — most notably, pink flamingos.

Eiffel Tower

Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower is an enduring symbol of Paris. It’s one thing to see the famous landmark in films, television shows, and photographs, but it’s quite another to get a close-up look at this incredible feat of ingenuity in real life. The twinkly lights at night only add to the romance of it all.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Located about half a mile offshore from tourist-laden Cannes, Île Sainte-Marguerite reflects a more low-key side of the French Riviera with lovely scenery at every turn. The largest of the Lérins Islands has beautiful rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, plus an underwater sculpture museum.

Châteaux of the Loire Valley

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Part of the historical and architectural fabric of the country, the châteaux of the Loire Valley are an enduring reminder of Renaissance resplendence. Impressive from both a design and landscaping perspective, these regal landmarks range from palaces with sprawling gardens (like Château de Chambord) to smaller castles.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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Tucked on the eastern side of a forested peninsula, the exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long captivated artists such as Henri Matisse, writers, and well-heeled holiday-goers with its spellbinding beauty. Expect exquisite villas hidden by lush vegetation, breathtaking beaches with clear waters for snorkeling, hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor.

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Situated just south of Colmar in the Alsace region of France, Eguisheim looks like a medieval village you’d see on the cover of a storybook with a concentric plan of narrow streets, half-timbered houses, bubbling fountains, centuries-old castles, and wine caves.

Louvre Museum

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No list of the best places to visit in France would be complete without mentioning the Louvre. The most patronized museum in the world is a historic landmark in its own right with an eye-catching exterior and rooms filled with priceless works of art including the "Mona Lisa" and the Venus de Milo.

Strasbourg Cathedral

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Strasbourg Cathedral is widely regarded as one the most outstanding examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture (though, for accuracy, the remaining parts of the original structure are Romanesque). It’s a beautiful landmark with heaps of history and visual appeal that’s well worth visiting while in the Alsace region.

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Straddling the French-Italian border and extending into Switzerland, Mont Blanc (which translates to “White Mountain”) rises 15,771 feet, making it the highest mountain in the Alps and the second most prominent peak in Europe. People come from near and far to go skiing, ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car, and even attempt to climb to the summit.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender fields have come to define Provence. This purple-hued visual is splashed across the front of virtually every postcard in the region. Many of those photos were taken on the Valensole Plateau, which erupts in a fragrant and vibrant bloom each summer.

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The charming hilltop district of Montmartre in Paris’s 18th arrondissement feels more like a small village than a big city. Cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, windmills, and performances from local musicians give it a quaint atmosphere. Its crown jewel, the iconic white-domed Sacré-Cœur commands attention.

Saint-Tropez

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Few places shine quite like Saint-Tropez. Celebrities, artists, and jet setters have been flocking to this cinematic holiday hotspot on the French Riveria since the 1960s. The glamorous beach clubs, mega yachts, and charming old fishing quarter keep the crowds thick every summer. 

Belle-Île-en-Mer

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The largest of the islands off the coast of Brittany in northwest France, the aptly named Belle-Île-en-Mer is a beautiful destination with uncrowded beaches, enchanting villages, and rugged cliffs. The jagged rock formation known as Les Aiguilles de Port Coton even inspired Monet to pick up his paintbrush.

Porquerolles

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While it’s impossible to pick a favorite spot along the French Riveria, there’s a lot to love about Porquerolles. The largest of the Îles d'Hyères offers peaceful beaches, calm waters, rolling vineyards, cycling paths through the countryside, old forts, and an off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Veuve Clicquot Champagne House

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For fans of bubbly, few things are as fabulous as a trip to the Champagne region of France. Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot tops the list of the most significant and celebrated producers. A visit to this world-famous house in Reims entails touring the historic cellars and, of course, sipping the finest sparkling wine.

Arc De Triomphe

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Everyone who visits France’s capital for the first time heads over to the Arc De Triomphe for that “I went to Paris" photo. It’s worth joining the masses in admiring this famous monument that stands tall at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

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Admittedly, an overnight stay at the luxurious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc at the tip of Cap d’Antibes isn’t in the budget for most travelers. But that shouldn’t preclude you from visiting. Reserve a terrace table at the restaurant to savor Mediterranean cuisine alongside stunning views of the sea and the rock-framed infinity pool.

D-Day Landing Beaches

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Normandy is closely associated with WWII — specifically, the fateful day the Allied troops made landfall at the D-Day beaches, an operation that ultimately led to the liberation of France (and eventually Western Europe) from Nazi occupation. Today, travelers can visit the many museums and memorials along the 50-mile stretch of coastline.

26 Best Places to Visit in France

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Jan 19, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander studied and lived in Paris, and has traveled extensively around the country.

The French affectionately call their homeland "l'Hexagone" because of its distinct six-sided shape. Each corner of France has its own unique character: the rugged and outdoorsy French Alps ; sun-drenched and slow-paced Provence ; the glamorous and gorgeous Côte d'Azur ; and idyllic Alsace , a pastoral region where storybook hamlets are tucked away in the vine-covered rolling hills.

Paris and Versailles are must-see destinations for a first trip to France. Other classic travel itineraries include stops at fashionable seaside resorts, fairy-tale castles, and glorious Gothic cathedrals.

More off-the-beaten-path experiences are found in the countryside, such as at farmhouses in Burgundy , fishing villages in Brittany , and thermal spas in the Pyrenees Mountains .

From cultured cities to pristine nature sites, France offers endless tourist attractions . Discover this fascinating and diverse country with our list of the best places to visit in France.

2. The Charming Countryside of Provence

3. côte d'azur, 4. versailles, 5. mont saint-michel in normandy, 6. the châteaux of the loire valley, 7. strasbourg's unesco-listed historic center, 8. seaside towns & resorts in brittany, 9. biarritz & saint-jean-de-luz, 10. chartres cathedral: a gem of medieval architecture, 11. joan of arc monuments in chinon, rouen & orléans, 12. quaint villages of the alsace region, 13. walled medieval city of carcassonne, 14. mont-blanc & annecy in the french alps, 15. unesco world heritage sites in reims, 16. prehistoric caves in the dordogne & the pyrenees, 17. rocamadour: a medieval pilgrimage destination, 18. bordeaux & saint-émilion, 19. the burgundy region: quintessential france, 20. cirque de gavarnie in the pyrenees mountains, 21. lourdes: france's biggest catholic pilgrimage site, 22. gourmet restaurants & cultural attractions in lyon, 23. belle époque spa towns, 24. gascony region & toulouse in the south of france, 25. the camargue, 26. island of corsica, map of best places to visit in france.

Appreciated for its elegance and joie de vivre, Paris is a grand European capital filled with architectural masterpieces like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre-Dame Cathedral .

Reflecting the city's rich heritage, the Louvre (one of the top museums in Paris ) contains an exceptional fine arts collection, while the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie display treasures of French Impressionist art.

Other charms of Paris are its atmospheric medieval quarters and graceful boulevards. Quintessential tourist experiences include shopping at bookshops in the Latin Quarter , strolling the Champs-Elysées , and people-watching from a sidewalk café terrace on the Boulevard Saint-Germain-de-Prés .

In contrast to the grey skies of Paris and northern France, the charming region of Provence basks in bright Mediterranean sunshine most of the year. This rural area feels untouched by the modern world and has a rugged, earthy appeal.

The rolling hills are covered with a patchwork of small farms, olive groves, sunflowers, and lavender fields. Fragrant rosemary, sage, and thyme and other wild herbs grow here in abundance and enliven the local cuisine.

In this dreamy landscape, Impressionist painters found inspiration to create vibrant works of art.

Visitors are enchanted by the villages perchés , which crown Provence's hilltops. Two favorite destinations are Saint-Paul-de-Vence , a picture-perfect walled medieval town (near many Côte d'Azur tourist spots , such as Eze) and Gordes , which is among the top places to see in the Luberon .

In the heart of Provence, traditional ambience is found on the tree-shaded streets and outdoor cafés of Aix-en-Provence , at the festivals of Arles , and by the old seaport of Marseilles .

Also not-to-be missed are the Palais de Papes in Avignon ; the legendary beach resort of Saint-Tropez ; and the Roman theater in Orange , one of the amazing sites of the Haut-Vaucluse .

Also known as the French Riviera, the Côte d'Azur is a glamorous stretch of Mediterranean coastline named for its deep azure-blue waters. The skies are often a mesmerizing cerulean hue as well, thanks to the sunny weather most of the year in this area of southern France.

Stretching roughly from Saint-Tropez (overlapping with the Provence region) to Menton , less than 30 kilometers from the border with Italy, the Côte d'Azur has been a fashionable seaside resort destination since the early 19th century.

Spring and autumn bring milder weather and a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere.

The Côte d'Azur has something for everyone . Nice is the place to enjoy the good life, visit art museums, and stroll along cobblestone streets and palm-fringed boulevards. Within a short drive from Nice are places to visit as day trips , such as splendid waterfront villas and top-notch art museums.

Among the most famous French Riviera tourist attractions are Cannes , which has a dazzling beachfront promenade and an alluring Old Town; and Monaco , a tiny royal principality that is synonymous with luxury and decadence. Both Cannes and Monaco feature five-star hotels, acclaimed restaurants, and yacht-filled marinas.

Sun worshippers flock to Saint-Tropez , a happening summer vacation spot with exclusive private beaches, as well as public beaches that appeal to regular tourists. Vacationers appreciate Antibes for its expansive sandy beaches, atmospheric medieval quarter, and fabulous Picasso Museum housed in a castle overlooking the sea.

A short train ride from Paris is the UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles . Built for Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), this opulent 17th-century palace is a testament to the glory and absolute power of the French monarch.

The château's splendid Baroque façade, dazzling Hall of Mirrors , and fountain-adorned formal gardens allow visitors to imagine a scene of France's bygone royal court.

Versailles immerses visitors into the extravagance of France's Ancien Régime , the glittering world where Marie-Antoinette hosted lavish balls and garden parties.

Tourists may wander around Le Hameau de la Reine , the make-believe country village created by the last Queen as a way to escape the formality of court life. The hamlet includes a lake, orchard, dovecote, and originally had a working dairy.

Mont Saint-Michel is a highlight of the Normandy region, a pastoral landscape of apple orchards, woodlands, and cow pastures. This unmissable tourist attraction ranks number one on the long list of Normandy travel destinations , which includes stellar sights such as historic castles and picture-perfect towns.

Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in France. The UNESCO-listed abbey is perched on the hilltop of an islet in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel and is considered a marvel of Gothic architecture.

The abbey church was an important medieval pilgrimage site on the "Way of Saint James" route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Modern-day pilgrims still make the journey here, crossing the Bay of Saint-Michel by foot at low tide.

Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is a spirit-lifting experience. Tourists may attend religious services, concerts, and cultural events at this sublime historic abbey.

Like the scene of a fairy tale, magnificent castles are scattered throughout the densely forested landscape of the Loire Valley. Stretching for 280 kilometers, from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalonnes-sur-Loire in Anjou, the Loire Valley is the largest UNESCO-listed site in France .

The region boasts an incredibly rich cultural heritage. During the 15th and 16th centuries, France's kings built sumptuous country retreats here purely for entertainment and enjoyment.

Extravagant châteaux, such as the grandiose Château de Chambord and the emblematic Château de Chenonceau , offer insight into the opulence of the Renaissance-era French court.

French nobles and elites also built stately manor houses, such as the majestic Château of Cheverny and the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau in an idyllic setting with a water-filled moat.

For families with kids, the M ini-Châteaux Park in Amboise is a marvelous destination. Set in two hectares of woodlands, the amusement park features 41 replicas of Loire châteaux built on a 1/25 scale. Children love exploring the kid-sized castles designed with authentic details.

Quaint and cultured, Strasbourg enchants visitors with its old-world charm . The entire historic center of Strasbourg, the Grande-Île , is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

When stepping foot into this mostly pedestrian area, one enters the world of centuries past. Medieval cobblestone lanes and narrow alleyways invite travelers to discover a delightful maze of pastel-painted half-timbered houses, ancient churches, and public squares filled with outdoor café tables.

At the heart of Strasbourg, the cathedral amazes all who admire its breathtakingly ornate façade.

The cathedral is within easy walking distance of many top tourist attractions, like the Maison des Tanneurs , a fine-dining restaurant in a classified Historic Monument; the 15th-century Maison Kammerzell , considered a gem of Alsatian Renaissance architecture; and the Eglise de Saint-Thomas , a 12th-century church that played an important role during the Protestant Reformation.

To soak up the quaint ambience of Strasbourg, be sure to wander around one of the most picturesque quarters of the Grande-Île, the Quartier des Tanneurs ("La Petite France"), with its meandering canals, tree-shaded walking paths, and traditional flower-bedecked Alsatian houses. The Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes is especially charming.

Also within the Grande-Île, the Quartier Krutenau is another wonderful neighborhood for a stroll. With the feel of a small village, this lively quarter brims with restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

A picturesque coastal region, Brittany has a rich maritime heritage seen in its historic port towns: Saint-Malo , surrounded by old ramparts; the medieval capital of Nantes; and the fortified 14th-century Concarneau .

The seaside also boasts stylish beach resorts like fashionable Dinard on the Côte d'Emeraude, the summertime vacation destination of La Baule on the estuary of the Loire River, and Tréboul near the lovely riverside town of Quimper.

The scenery is dramatic and unspoiled, with secluded sandy beaches and a rocky coastline where wild Atlantic waves crash against the shore. Centuries-old fishing villages are sheltered in quiet bays and on tiny windswept offshore islands.

Breton culture can be traced back to the Celts (the local dialect is related to Gaelic). Similar to Ireland, it is a land of mythology and legends. Today, Brittany is strongly Catholic. Locals celebrate ancient religious customs called "pardons," special festivals when townspeople wear old-fashioned regional costumes.

The local cuisine features delicious specialties such as fresh seafood and savory buckwheat crepes. Brittany also has a famous regional pastry, the " kouign-amann ," a buttery pastry made with croissant dough that is layered with sprinkles of sugar, has a moist cake-like center, and a crispy caramelized exterior.

A blend of Parisian-style elegance and the untamed natural beauty of the Atlantic coast, Biarritz is an upscale seaside resort with fabulous beaches. Biarritz was favored by Empress Eugénie, who loved this area of the Basque region. She chose a sandy hillside overlooking the Bay of Biscay as the location for her Imperial residence, the Villa Eugénie.

This Second Empire palace has been converted into luxury accommodations, the five-star Hôtel du Palais , which offers exquisitely decorated guest rooms and an oceanfront gastronomic restaurant. Next to the hotel property is the Grande Plage , a sandy beach that has attracted sunbathers since the Belle Époque.

Another of the top beaches in Biarritz is the Plage du Miramar . A picturesque scene of colorful, striped cabanas and parasols during summertime, this sheltered beach has the delightful ambience of an old-fashioned seaside resort.

Just a half-hour drive (15 kilometers) from Biarritz is the historic fishing port of Saint-Jean-de-Luz , a popular summertime destination with family-friendly beaches.

Traveling inland 25 kilometers from Biarritz is the traditional Basque village of Espelette. This small village boasts typical half-timbered, red-shuttered Basque houses decorated with rows of dried red peppers called Piment d'Espelette (prized for use in Basque cuisine).

In Spain's Basque country, 50 kilometers by bus, car, or train from Biarritz, the lively seaside city of San Sebastian delights visitors with its elegant architecture, sandy beaches, and gourmet tapas.

If you only have time to visit one cathedral in France, then head to Chartres. Crowning the historic town, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This magnificent Gothic monument dates to the 12th and 13th centuries and is remarkably well preserved.

Visitors are awed by the soaring spires, elaborately decorated façade, and marvelous array of stained-glass windows that give the sanctuary an ethereal quality. Most of the windows were created between 1210 and 1260, which is extremely rare.

During summertime, the cathedral hosts the Chartres International Organ Festival with performances of sacred music on Sunday afternoons.

France's national heroine, Joan of Arc led the country to victory during the Hundred Years' War when she was only seventeen years old. Her divinely ordained mission, instructed by heavenly voices, is still an inspiration to the faithful.

Joan of Arc's remarkable story began in Chinon , where on March 9, 1429, she went to meet the future Charles VII (the "Dauphin") at the Forteresse Royale (a medieval fortified castle). On this momentous occasion, the "Maid of Orléans" informed the Dauphin of his right to the crown and asked for help in forming an army, which was needed to break the Siege of Orléans (a pivotal event during the Hundred Years' War between France and England).

Because of its rich heritage, Chinon is listed as a Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (City of Art and History). At the tree-lined Place Jeanne d'Arc stands a monumental bronze equestrian statue of Joan of Arc depicted as a heroic military leader.

Among the top attractions of the Loire Valley , Orléans is another essential stop on the Joan of Arc trail. The city was saved by the "Maid of Orléans," during the Siege of 1429. After leading the French to defeat the English army, Joan of Arc came to the town's Cathédrale Sainte-Croix to pray. The cathedral's 19th-century stained-glass windows recount the history of Joan of Arc.

In a 15th-century half-timbered house, the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc in Orléans presents exhibits about Joan of Arc, who is now recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church. A bronze equestrian statue of Joan of Arc graces the Place du Martroi in Orléans.

Tourists can learn more about Joan of Arc's life story at several of the top sights in Rouen . At the 13th-century Tour Jeanne d'Arc (dungeon), a relic of the town's old château, Joan of Arc was imprisoned, threatened with torture, put on trial, and accused of heresy.

Since this infamous trial in 1431 and martyrdom, Joan of Arc has been elevated to a saint. Built on the site in Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, the Eglise Jeanne d'Arc pays tribute to the saint's legacy. This modern church features an upwards-swooping roof designed to resemble flames.

Rouen also has a museum devoted to Joan of Arc, the Historial Jeanne d'Arc , in the former Archbishop's Palace (a classified Historic Monument) on the Rue Saint-Romain. This museum delves into Joan of Arc's epic story and explains how she changed the course of French history. Evocative multimedia exhibits and videos bring the events to life in a thrilling way.

Bucolic scenery and old-world charm set Alsace apart from the rest of France. The architecture and ambience of the region has been influenced over the centuries by neighboring Germany, as seen in the brightly painted, half-timbered buildings and ornate Gothic churches.

Colmar is the quintessential Alsatian town, full of interesting historic monuments and traditional houses with flower-bedecked balconies. An unspoiled landscape of vine-covered foothills surrounds Colmar, and nestled in the nearby valleys and along the Rhine River are tiny storybook hamlets and picturesque villages.

The Alsace Villages route is a delightful way to explore the region. Many villages are listed as the Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), and some are designated as Villages Fleuris (Flowering Villages) because of the vibrant potted flowers that adorn the homes and streets.

Carcassonne has the look of a Disneyland castle, with massive fortifications that enclose the medieval citadel ( La Cité ). The concentric circles of defensive walls feature 52 turreted towers, many of which were renovated in the 19th century by Viollet-le-Duc (who also restored Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris).

The integrity of the ramparts gives Carcassonne a picture-perfect appearance and makes it one of the world's best-preserved medieval towns. Because of its cultural value, La Cité de Carcassonne is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Drawbridges once provided access into Carcassonne. Today, tourists can walk freely into this medieval citadel at any time. Stepping foot into La Cité provides visitors with a glimpse of life during the Middle Ages.

Wandering the labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets leads to discoveries of historic monuments (such as the Basilique Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse and the 12th-century Château Comtal ), small squares, and plenty of touristy restaurants and boutiques.

The French Alps boast some of the most awe-inspiring natural scenery in the world.

The majestic Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in Europe, an iconic snowcapped peak that soars to 4,810 meters. At this altitude, the air is fresh and the landscape is sublime, with crystal-clear lakes, dramatic rushing waterfalls, peaceful valleys, and refreshing pine forests.

During summertime, visitors flock to the Alps to go hiking, cycling, and mountain climbing. In the winter, the French Alps draw many tourists for Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. The area has many of France's best ski resorts . Other things to do during the snowy season include ice-skating, dog sledding rides, and old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Besides the spectacular mountain terrain, the region also has a rich cultural heritage linked to the ancestral territory of the Italian royal House of Savoy, as well as the historic Dauphiné region.

The lovely mountain village of Chamonix (about a 15-minute drive from the base of Mont Blanc) offers traditional Alpine ambience, while Annecy (just over a one-hour drive from Chamonix) has an ancient château, lakeside parks, and fairy-tale ambience.

Reims is justifiably placed among France's list of " Villes d'Art et d'Histoire " ("Cities of Art and History").

Of the town's three UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the most renowned is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims , where French kings were crowned. The most celebrated event was when Joan of Arc escorted Charles VII to the cathedral in July of 1429 for his coronation as king.

Built in the 13th century, the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims is a gem of High Gothic architecture. The dazzling exterior features a profusion of flying buttresses and sculpted angels, while the spacious interior has a solemn ambience of spirituality.

Among the city's top attractions , other UNESCO-listed landmarks include the Palais du Tau , a 17th-century Archbishops' Palace, and the 11th-century Basilique Saint-Rémi .

The Dordogne region is one of the best places to visit in France for viewing prehistoric cave paintings. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lascaux Cave in the Dordogne's Vallée de la Vézère contains masterpieces of Paleolithic art created by Cro-Magnon man.

Although the Lascaux Cave has been closed to the public to prevent damage, visitors may view copies of the cave's artwork at the nearby Lascaux II site (in Montignac).

Also in Montignac is the Centre International de l'Art Pariétal (International Center of Cave Art), which presents exhibits about prehistoric animal paintings and reveals the work of archaeologists. The center includes Lascaux IV , which is a complete replica of the prehistoric Lascaux Cave.

Also in the Vézère Valley, the Grotte de Rouffignac is adorned with paintings of horses, cows, bison, deer, goats, and mammoths.

One of the top attractions of the Pyrenees region is the Grotte du Mas d'Azil , an immense cave decorated with drawings from the Magdalenian and Azilian periods. This tourist attraction deep in the Pyrenees Mountains offers guided tours and admission to the nearby Musée de la Préhistoire .

About an hour drive from the Mas d'Azil Cave, the Grotte de Niaux also has remarkable Palaeolithic art dating from 14,000 to 10,000 BCE. The Grotte de Niaux is open to the public for guided tours (reservations required).

Near the town of Tarascon-sur-Ariège , the Grotte de Lombrives reveals fascinating ancient history, and the Grotte de Bédeilhac dazzles with its rare Magdalenian-era prehistoric art.

Clinging to a sheer cliff, Rocamadour seems to aspire towards heaven. This amazing site was the third most important Christian pilgrimage destination in the 11th century and a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrims' route.

The village has seven medieval-era sanctuaries, accessible by steep pedestrian staircases. The most famous is the Chapelle Notre-Dame (Chapelle Miraculeuse), which contains the precious 12th-century Black Virgin (Notre-Dame de Rocamadour) associated with miracles.

Rocamadour's largest church, the Basilique Saint-Sauveur is a UNESCO-listed historic monument. This 13th-century pilgrimage church displays the architectural transition from Romanesque to Gothic.

Outside the village is the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park . Within this unspoiled landscape on the Quercy plateaus, grazing goats produce milk that is used to make AOC-labeled Cabécou de Rocamadour cheese. In late May or early June, the Rocamadour village hosts the Fête des Fromages (Cheese Festival) devoted to farmhouse cheeses of the region.

Other top attractions within an hour-and-a-half drive of Rocamadour include: Limoges (145 kilometers away), classified as a Ville d'Art et d'Histoire and one of the top travel destinations in the Limousin region ; and Périgueux (115 kilometers away), a quaint town in the Dordogne region dating to the Roman era, which was also on the Camino de Santiago.

The Bordeaux region is a beautiful bucolic corner of France, where grandiose castles preside over rolling, vine-covered hills. Scenic tree-shaded paths traverse the countryside and follow alongside the Garonne River, as well as its placid canals. Many travelers enjoy exploring this area on a leisurely cycling itinerary.

The region has two exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Sites : the elegant city of Bordeaux , with more than 350 buildings classified as historical monuments, and the little country village of Saint-Émilion, 51 kilometers from Bordeaux, which is packed with notable churches and monasteries.

The Burgundy region is an idyllic landscape of lush woodlands and rolling hills dotted with impressive monuments. Romanesque chapels, ancient towns, and inspiring old abbeys attest to a rich cultural heritage.

Among the top sights of the Burgundy region are the historic city of Dijon , with its aristocratic palaces, ornate Gothic churches, and excellent museums; the charming medieval town of Beaune ; and the monumental Abbaye de Cluny , a Benedictine abbey founded in the 10th century. The abbey belonged to the most influential monastic order of the medieval era.

Besides its incredible history, Burgundy is renowned for gastronomy. The traditional cuisine includes a repertoire of famous specialities such as escargot, Boeuf Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy), and Coq au Vin .

The mountainous Pyrenees region is a soul-inspiring place that offers both natural splendor and spiritual wonders. The region has many sacred pilgrimage sites, as well as rejuvenating spa towns.

The UNESCO-listed Cirque de Gavarnie is nature's version of a cathedral. Forming a semicircle, these awesome 1,700-meter-high limestone rock walls are draped with dramatic waterfalls that tumble down into rushing rivers and peaceful streams.

The entire Hautes-Pyrénées region is part of a national park, the Parc National des Pyrénées , which borders Spain. Within the park are hiking trails through lush forests and verdant valleys.

During wintertime, the French Pyrenees is a popular destination for downhill skiing. Top resorts include Cauterets, Font-Romeu, and the Grand Tourmalet ski area.

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, Lourdes is France's most important Catholic pilgrimage site.

Millions of visitors come to Lourdes every year for spiritual inspiration. Some arrive to bathe in the waters in hopes of miracle cures. To the faithful, Lourdes is known for the 70 validated miracles that have occurred here.

The main pilgrimage sites, the Grotto (where Saint Bernadette received her divine visions), and the Basilique Notre-Dame du Rosaire are surrounded by a serene woodland alongside a tranquil babbling brook.

Marian Processions take place every evening at 9pm from April through October. The procession of hundreds of pilgrims holding candles is a breathtaking sight to behold.

An enticing destination for gourmands to visit, Lyon is at the heart of French gastronomy. Lyonnais cuisine is renowned for its delicious regional specialties such as quenelles (fish dumplings served in a creamy sauce), steak, Bresse chicken with morels, sausages, and salads.

Tourists can choose from an incredible selection of restaurants. For casual everyday dining, the "Bouchons Lyonnais" (traditional bistros) allow visitors to sample the authentic local cuisine while enjoying an inviting, cozy ambience.

A top destination for fine dining, the Auberge du Pont de Collonges was helmed by famous chef Paul Bocuse for decades. Today this legendary gastronomic establishment with two Michelin stars has changed its name to Restaurant Paul Bocuse . The restaurant carries on the legacy of Paul Bocuse by continuing to serve his signature dishes.

Besides its gourmet delights, Lyon is rich in cultural heritage . The city's four historic districts (representing 500 hectares) are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Among the many historic attractions are ancient Roman ruins, atmospheric medieval quarters, and elegant Renaissance houses.

Lyon's Musée des Beaux-Arts is second only to Paris' Louvre Museum in its wealth of artistic treasures. The museum contains an outstanding assortment of European paintings from the 14th to 20th centuries, including masterpieces by Véronèse, Rubens, Delacroix, Renoir, Monet, and Picasso.

For those seeking a rejuvenating getaway, the Belle Époque spa towns in the French Alps region, such as the lakeside resorts of Aix-les-Bains and Evian-les-Bains , deliver the ultimate relaxing vacation experience at pampering thermal spas and upscale hotels.

The Pyrenees region is prized for its pristine fresh-water streams and rejuvenating spa towns. During the 19th century, the area's thermal spa resorts such as Cauterets and Luz-Saint-Sauveur attracted a silk-stocking clientele, who came to soak in the healing mineral waters.

Set in a verdant valley, Bagnères-de-Bigorre is home to the top spa resort of the Hautes-Pyrénées region. The town's thermal spa was inaugurated in 1823 by Marie-Thérèse-Charlotte , the daughter of Marie-Antoinette.

In an elegant marble-faced 19th-century building, Les Grands Thermes offers thermal baths filled with certified mineral waters that are said to cure various health conditions. Five-day retreats with lodging are available.

The rural area of Gascony and the city of Toulouse exude the sultry charm of southern France.

Sunny and slow-paced, Gascony (Le Gers) has a traditional rural character that seems untouched by modernity. The rolling hills are blanketed with a patchwork of small farms and dotted with quiet country villages and ancient castles.

Steeped in history dating back to the 13th century, Toulouse is known as " The Pink City " because of its distinctive red-brick architecture. These buildings reflect the sunlight in a rosy-toned hue.

While ambling the pleasant town squares and basking on outdoor café terraces in Toulouse, visitors soak up the laid-back vibe of this beautiful and balmy city.

The UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi runs through Toulouse and flows all the way to the Mediterranean port of Sète near Marseille. The tree-shaded path along the canal is popular for leisurely strolls and cycling.

The Parc Régional de Camargue , just 16 kilometers from Arles in Provence , is a place where visitors can take a breath of fresh air and enjoy unspoiled natural scenery. Marshlands, meadows, salt flats, and pastures blanket the landscape.

In this pristine UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve (around 100,000 hectares of protected wetlands), wild white horses roam free, and pink flamingoes thrive.

The nature reserve is home to over 300 bird species, which makes it a paradise for bird-watching. Other famous fauna include the native Camargue Bulls, which are raised for use in bullfighting.

The island of Corsica has a rugged and raw beauty, seen in its dramatic coastal landscapes, pristine forests, and snowcapped mountains. The island is fringed with beautiful beaches, quiet bays, attractive fishing ports, and lively seaside cities, while the inland hillsides are crowned with ancient villages where time seems to stand still.

Sun-worshipping beach lovers and outdoorsy and sporty types (including hard-core hikers) are drawn to the island's incomparable nature sites. The 1,000-kilometer shoreline offers crystal-clear waters that make it a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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The 16 best places to visit in France

From buzzing cities to gorgeous countryside escapes, these are the essential places in France to visit at least once in your life

France   is one of the most visited places on the planet – and you better believe that it lives up to every bit of the hype. This famous country has been at the cultural heart of western Europe for millennia, and you can see signs of its complex and fascinating past all over the place. But it’s not all   grand old châteaux : France is also blessed with some exceptionally beautiful natural wonders   and   some of Europe’s coolest city-break destinations .

So, from heavenly beach destinations and   picturesque rural villages   to grand old cities like   Paris ,   Lyon   and   Marseille , these are the best places to visit in France – and some of the world’s most essential destinations.

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📍 The best   things to do in France 🌳 The prettiest   villages in France 🏖 The best   beaches in France 🏰 Spectacular  French châteaux you can rent 😋 The best   restaurants in France 🌊  The best places to stay on the French Riviera

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Best places to visit in France

Where do you start with a city like Paris? The French capital is one of the great global cities, as renowned for its world-class museums, magnificent grub and lavish shopping options as it is for its mere vibe . From the Louvre to the Jardin de Luxembourg, the place oozes history, beauty and, yes, romance. There is, quite plainly, nowhere quite like it.

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📍 The best things to do in Paris 🧑 ‍🍳 The best restaurants in Paris 🎨 The best museums in Paris 🥐 The best cafés in Paris

The port city of Marseille has been one great big melting pot of cultures ever since it was founded by the Greeks a whopping 2,600 years ago. Having thrown off its rep as a town of sailors and gangsters, these days Marseille is a dazzlingly multicultural city with galleries and rooftop bars galore – and all within easy reach of marvellous spectacles of nature in the form of calanques and coves. 

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📍 The best things to do in Marseille 😋 The best restaurants in Marseille 🥾 The essential guide to Marseille’s calanques 🚤 The best boat trips from Marseille

Nice by name, nice by... alright, that’s a bit too cheesy. But it’s true. With its lavish beachside promenade, throngs of established museums and hearty wine bars, Nice is a rather exceptionally lovely coastal city. It’s the former residence of Henri Matisse, with an entire museum dedicated to the legendary artist – and with skies this vibrant, it’s not hard to see where he found the inspiration for his bold blues.

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Lyonnais are known for being particularly proud of their city – and they’ve every right to be. This place is a gastronomic wonderland and (disputedly, we admit) France’s food capital, with each of its Michelin-starred abodes matched by dozens of under-the-radar culinary masters. And with its Unesco-protected city centre, Rhône and Saône river views and its history as a silk centre, Lyon has loads of non-foodie stuff to do, too.

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🍴 The best restaurants in Lyon

Not just the greatest winemaking hub in the world, Bordeaux is also a full-blown dream of a city: packed with characterful medieval architecture, a top-tier dining scene and sprawling green open spaces, and within touching distance of some of the mightiest (and warmest) beaches on France’s Atlantic coast. Even teetotallers will find a shedload to do here.

Nîmes, Arles and Orange

For history buffs, there are few regions of France more worth a week’s visit than the lower reaches of the River Rhône. Impressively preserved Roman amphitheatres, arches, temples and baths draw as many visitors to the cities of Nîmes, Arles and Orange as the laidback lifestyle, local wines and year-round sunshine. But the highlight is the spectacular Pont du Gard: the 2,100-year-old three-tiered aqueduct that straddles the Gardon river. It’s one of the most impressive Roman monuments surviving anywhere – Rome included.

French Riviera

Stretching for more than 100 miles along France’s southeastern coast, the Riviera is best appreciated as a whole: as a series of delightful places rather than any one in particular. From perfume capital Grasse and rocky Èze to legendarily-glitzy Saint-Tropez and film-tastic Cannes, the Côte d'Azur is everything it claims to be and more.

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😎 The best places to stay on the French Riviera

Inland from the bustle of the Riviera, the vast and ancient rural region of Provence is the place for a slower pace of life. If you don’t like the smell of lavender, best avoid the Valensole plateau, with its fields of purple stretching into the distance – 300 square miles’ worth of the fragrant stuff. We recommend renting a mountain bike and cycling the yellow dirt paths, with a charming stopover in a village such as Riez or Esparron-de-Verdon. Not far away, the gravity-defying limestone flanks and dazzling turquoise-green waters of the Gorges du Verdon draw hikers, swimmers and kayakers from far and wide.

Named after the river that runs through it, the Dordogne region is almost surreally picturesque. Vines as far as the eye can see, endless rolling hills, impossibly pretty hamlets… from the seventeenth-century Chateau de Marqueyssac and its hypnotic gardens to the oak forests of the Périgord noir, it’s so beautiful it can feel like the stuff of dreams.

On the Upper Rhine plain between France and Germany, Alsace has changed hands several times. Start in regional capital Strasbourg for a taste of Alsace’s culture, architecture and food – a distinctive blend of French and German – then  head to half-timbered Colmar for shades of Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (plus  one of Europe’s best Christmas markets ). And whatever you do, stop off at  the twelfth-century Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: an epic complex with views all the way to the Black Forest.

Lake Annecy

Bordered by snow-capped mountains in the Haute-Savoie region, Annecy is known as ‘Europe’s cleanest lake’ thanks to strict local environmental regulations. It’s also very beautiful. The third-largest lake within France’s borders, its ten square miles draw bathers, sailors, divers and sunbathers alike to its grassy ‘beaches’ in summer. Rich with flora and fauna, the area’s hills are ideal for hiking, and the town of Annecy itself brims with brilliant restaurants, delis and canals.

Canal du Midi

Connecting the Garonne river at Toulouse with the Étang de Thau basin on the Mediterranean, the 150-mile-long Midi makes for the dreamiest of waterside cycle adventures in summer. Built under the patronage of Louis XIV’s first minister Colbert in the seventeenth century, it is now connected to the Canal de Garonne, and together the two canals allow for barges to travel from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. For the full canal experience, you should rent one. A barge, that is, not a canal.

Loire Valley

Two things make a trip here essential: castles and wine. The Loire is France’s longest river, and the stretch between Orléans and Angers is home to more than 300 grand châteaux dating back to the age when France had kings, as well as 185,000 acres of vineyards. Follow the river past woods and fields and through the medieval towns of Blois, Amboise and Saumur – each crowned by an unmissable royal castle. And don’t miss a chance to sample the local specialities: white wine, rillettes, goat’s cheese and Chambord – the latter named after one of the province’s most spectacular châteaux.

French Basque Country

Although most of the historic Basque Country lies over the border in modern-day Spain, the French part is well worth a visit – especially if you’re partial to a gnarly surf trip. A classy bathing retreat since the nineteenth century, Biarritz became the home of European surfing in the ’50s, with the Atlantic regularly chucking ten-metre waves up its  Grande Plage.  Once you’ve dried off, refuel with a plate of the signature cured ham from Bayonne, just up the road. And further down the coast, the beach towns of St Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye have miles of golden sand and eye-popping summer sunsets over the ocean.

With its sweeping cliffs and capes and proud Celtic heritage, France’s rugged northwest region— aka ‘Little Britain’ — is rightly likened to Cornwall. The coastline gets top billing, from the romantic Pink Granite Coast via quaint fishing villages to walkers’ magnet the Crozon peninsula. History fans should make for Carnac, Brittany’s Stonehenge, while gourmands will love plundering the local larder: crêpes, savoury galettes, and seafood, with France’s oyster capital, Cancale, just east of the picture-perfect walled town of Saint-Malo.

Normandy’s stirring white-chalk cliffs – from picturesque port Honfleur to chic weekend getaway Étretat – gave birth to no less than the entire art movement of Impressionism. New bike route  La Seine à Vélo  reunites many of the area’s joys, especially at Monet’s home and lilypad-lined gardens at Giverny, before taking in Rouen (tied to Joan of Arc lore) and seaside Deauville. Keep on coasting for three more musts: the D-Day landing sites, Bayeux’s famously ornate tapestry, and ‘Wonder of the West’ the Mont-Saint-Michel, an island topped by a gravity-defying abbey.

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I conic cities, gorgeous towns and villages, incredible islands and all the rest

The best places to visit in Greece

From Athens to the islands, there’s so much to fall in love with here

The best places to visit in Spain

Sure, the beaches and big cities are incredible – but there’s much, much more to Spain

The best places to visit in France

It’s one of the most visited places on the planet, but France always lives up to the hype

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25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

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Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

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Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

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Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

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The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

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Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

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Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

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Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

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Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

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When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

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Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

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French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

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This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

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Best Places For French Speaking Countries

You don’t have to just visit France if you have a desire to hear the romantic tones of the French language. Although Spanish and English are two of the most common languages in the world, you’ll find French spoken in some of the countries too.

Having recently returned from Senegal – a French speaking country – I wanted to put together a list of the countries where you can speak French. Even if you only know a few basic phrases, don't let that stop you from visiting the following places:

Where better to enjoy the French language than in a tropical paradise? Travel to the Caribbean sea and you’ll find a handful of French speaking islands and solo trip ideas to choose from. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barts and Saint Martin all offer a French flavour amongst palm trees and crystal clear seas.

Saint Martin is my favourite and shares its land with St Maarten – the Dutch side of the island. St Martin is known for its cuisine and the French side of the island is where you’ll find the speciality restaurants and the more sophisticated nightlife.

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The Seychelles is a cosmopolitan island with a blend of French and British heritage evident in its architecture. The Seychelles is made up of over 100 islands, some atolls and other reef islands. It is situated off the east coast of Africa. With French indigenous culture still prevalent here we can see why many French choose to take their holidays in the Seychelles.

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Of course! France claims to be the number one tourist destination and can be visited all year round offering ski slopes, Christmas markets and plenty of outdoor adventure. But this country is more than its capital Paris with arts and culture and offers a historical path of port cities, medieval towns and chateaus.

Although the accent differs from region to region (just as any other language), France is a country that will leave you saying “oh la la.”

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French Guiana

Not really one for attracting tourists, French Guiana is a small country tucked away in South America. Although it’s on a different continent it remains part of France. Saint Laurent du Maroni is on the border of Suriname and has interesting architecture and an old prison to visit.

There aren't that many other places to see here so I suggest only visiting if you are on the South American continent. The best attraction here is the Guiana Space Centre complete with a space shuttle that you can visit (but it is all in French).

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French was recognised as the official language of Quebec back in 1974 and Quebec is the largest French-speaking area in Canada. Although it is a different French from which you’ll find in France, you’ll still find the fine French cuisine amongst the 100 or so restaurants in Old Quebec, recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage. There are plenty of shows and festivals to keep you entertained within the city too.

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Famous for the movie with the talking animals, Madagascar definitely does has its fair share of animals and is popular with wildlife lovers but what it also has is a French culture with many other influences from Arabs, British and Chinese.

Madagascar is the forth largest island in the world and lies off the eastern coast of South Africa. Although the inhabitants also speak Malagasy, French is the dominant language.

Sharing the same land mass as Dominican Republic, Haiti is actually one of the poorest countries in the Caribbean. Although overshadowed by the Dom Rep, Haiti has culture, adventure and plenty of history. If you do choose to go here as a solo opt for a tour guide as the country isn't known for its safety.

Tall green mountains and water falls are within its natural attractions and this country used to be a key tourism destination back in the 1970s but tourism is slowly returning to this Caribbean country. If you’re looking for a destination without many tourists, Haiti is a humble place to visit.

There are plenty of other French speaking countries such as Togo, and Benin in West Africa. Where is your favourite French speaking country?

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2 thoughts on “ Best Places For French Speaking Countries ”

Great list! I spent 8 months volunteering in Madagascar and loved it.

Definitely helps to speak French! I managed to learn a little and also a little of the local language Malagasy.

Seychelles are defiantly our list too! Hopefully soon.

Oh wow. I bet Madagascar was amazing! x

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13 of the best places to visit in France

Nov 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Have you been to France if you haven't got a shot in the lavender fields of Provence? © iStock / Getty Images

France  consistently tops the list as the world’s most visited destination – and it doesn’t take much imagination to see why.

Its winning formula of captivating cities, awe-inspiring landscapes – including the  Alps and the  Pyrenees – an enviable coastline and some of the world’s best food and wine is hard to resist. Affordable public transportation and a sprawling network of motorways mean you can cover a lot of ground if you want to visit more than one region. But it’s just as tempting to stick to one place and enjoy the country's seductive lifestyle.

Wondering where to go in France? Have a look at these top destinations for some inspiration.

1. Paris has great urban vibes

Much as you’d like to tick the main sights of  Paris off your list – world-class art at the  Louvre and  Musée d’Orsay , the  Eiffel Tower ,  Sacré-Coeur – make time for some of its lesser-known attractions. Wander the atmospheric streets of the  Marais – popping into the free  Musée Carnavalet as well as  Musée Picasso – before checking out the vintage shops of the 10th arrondissement . Make your way over to buzzing Belleville and take in fabulous views of Paris from Parc de Belleville. For full-on greenery in the city, follow the footpaths around the elegant 19th-century  Parc des Buttes-Chaumont .

Local tip : For authentic local dining experiences, avoid restaurants that tout a menu touristique, or display a sample meal of plastic food on the pavement outside.

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in France

2. the loire valley's castles are best explored by bike.

At some point, you’ll want to be on two wheels as you explore the gently rolling landscapes of the  Loire Valley – especially as cycling is made so much easier thanks to the extensive Vélo Verte network of bike routes. Combine visiting vineyards with glimpses into lavish Renaissance life in the 42 sumptuous chateaux, particularly the fantastically elaborate  Chateau de Chenonceau and the more intimate and romantic  Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau on its own island on the Indre tributary.

Local tip:  Don't leave your bicycle locked up outside on the street overnight if you want to see it (or at least most of its parts) again. Some hotels offer enclosed bicycle parking. 

3. Normandy’s coast is the place to learn about WWII history  

Normandy ’s long coastline is packed with historical landmarks, the D-Day beaches being the most striking. It’s impossible not to be moved by the many poignant memorials, including the  American cemetery at Omaha Beach and the  Juno Beach Centre at Courseulles-sur-Mer. Head further east, and you end up in a 19th-century time capsule in the alluring resorts of Cabourg, Deauville, Trouville and  Honfleur .

4. Strasbourg and Alsace’s wine routes are full of fairy-tale charm

Strasbourg is half-timbered heaven, with an outrageously picturesque old town set on its own island on the  River Ill . Wander round its imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame before relaxing on one of the cafe terraces in little Place du Marché Gayot just behind. The city is an excellent starting point for a tour of the  Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France. Beer drinkers aren’t left out: Alsace is the only region in France that makes wine and beer.

5. The Luberon in Provence has many lovely hilltop villages

Terracotta rooftops and honey-colored stone cottages tumble down pine-clad hills, while vineyards crisscross the valleys with olive groves and lavender fields. That’s when you know you’re in Provence, specifically the wonderfully mellow  Luberon . Wander from village to hilltop village and lose yourself in the medieval lanes of some of the most gorgeous places in France. Put Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon and Saignon on your list just for starters.

Local tip : Buy a baguette from the boulangerie (bakery) and fill it with Camembert, pâté or charcuterie (cold meats). Finish sweet with macarons, buttery kouign amann (Breton butter cake) or cherries in summer. 

6. Mont-St-Michel is a top destination for medieval history buffs

The 10th-century Benedictine abbey at  Mont-St-Michel casts its spell even before you arrive. The walk to this tidal island takes at least 20 minutes, during which you have this magnificent abbey, monastery and snail-like spiral of village houses in your sights. You certainly won’t tire of that view. Once you’ve explored the gothic interiors, take your pick from one of the panoramic restaurants circling the island.

7. Dune du Pilat is France's most scenic place to camp

Soaring more than 100m (328ft) above sea level, the otherworldly Dune du Pilat is Europe’s tallest sand dune. Sheltered by the Arguin sandbank, its waters are much gentler than further up the Atlantic coast on the western side of Cap Ferret. It’s ringed with campsites, giving you not only one of the loveliest views but also utterly mesmerizing sunsets. When you’re not running up the mountain of sand, you’ll be transfixed by the antics of the paragliders who rarely leave this place.

Local tip : There is a large car park about 400 meters (437 yards) from the dune, which charges a small fee for parking. However, you cannot park here overnight without being fined €50. 

8. Lyon is a top food destination

Even Parisians have to admit that  Lyon is gastronomic royalty in France. Bring a big appetite to do justice to eating in Lyon’s trademark bouchons , intimate little bistros that specialize in hearty meat-heavy lyonnaise cuisine. Start your bouchon tour in the UNESCO-listed Renaissance lanes of Vieux Lyon, where you can also spot the old secret passageways known as traboules .

9. Bordeaux is the best place to go for wine lovers

Mixing easy elegance with liveliness, France’s wine capital hums with the sounds of people enjoying themselves in  Bordeaux ’s cafe-filled 18th-century lanes of Saint-Pierre and Place du Parlement. Take the pleasant, pedestrianized path along the River Garonne to  La Cité du Vin , whose audacious design holds a thoroughly enjoyable museum celebrating wine from Bordeaux and beyond.

Local tip : Dress up when dining out, even at mid-range restaurants, clubs and bars. Leave the jeans and sneakers in your suitcase (unless you're at the local village bar where a more casual style is fine).

10. Annecy has the best Alpine beauty

On the doorstep of the French Alps,  Annecy is another one of those sigh-inducing gorgeous cities that France does so well. Its medieval heart squeezes into gaps between the Thiou River and Canal, with tall pastel-colored townhouses towering over the quayside cafes. You can’t miss the  Vieille Ville ’s most distinctive landmark,  Palais de l’Île , a medieval castle and former prison that’s now a museum. Your wanderings will inevitably take you to the glorious shores of Lake Annecy, one of France’s most beautiful.

11. Biarritz and Basque Country is packed with boho chic

Royalty has been flocking to  Biarritz for more than two centuries since Napoleon III’s mother, Queen Hortense, fell in love with this fishing village on the Atlantic coast. Then the surfers joined in from the 1950s onward, bringing some laid-back cool to go with Biarritz’s superb beaches. Once you’ve had a swim in the  Grande Plage and  Plage de la Côte des Basques , check out the  Basque Country coastal towns of  Bayonne and  St-Jean-de-Luz before heading into the Pyrenees.

12. Nice is a vibrant taste of life on the Mediterranean

The sun-drenched capital of the Côte d’Azur is everything you want in a Mediterranean city, and then some. Explore the labyrinthine lanes of  Vieux Nice , with an obligatory trawl through the morning food market at  Cours Saleya  before taking in the views from the top of  Colline du Chateau . Chill out on one of  Nice ’s many beaches before getting a culture fix at the  Chagall and  Matisse museums. Hop on one of the most scenic train lines in Europe and pop into the attractive coastal villages of  Villefranche-sur-Mer and  Èze .

Planning tip: If you're heading to the Côte d’Azur in May, book time to get over to star-studded Cannes for Europe's biggest cinema extravaganza. Every evening from 9:30pm, the Cinéma de la Plage provides free open-air screenings on the beachfront.

13. Auvergne has a captivating natural landscape

The lush volcanic landscape of the  Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne is one of the most dramatic in France. Among its four volcanic massifs, the green-covered lava domes, cinder cones and craters of the Chaîne des Puys – more than 80 volcanoes – are a dream to explore on foot, on two wheels or from an exhilarating paraglide flight.

Local tip : If you're traveling with children, head to the surprisingly educative Vulcania theme park and learn about Auvergne's long-extinct volcanoes. 

This article was first published June 2012 and updated November 2023

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25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

Sydney is a writer and language nerd from Seattle. She’s lived in Sydney, Montreal, and Luxembourg and is always on the lookout for her next adventure. When she isn’t downing another cup of coffee or conjugating verbs, you can find her in the mountains or near the water. She writes about travel, lifestyle, and language all over the internet. 

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Joie de vivre: 10 french speaking cities you have to visit (that aren’t in france).

February 26, 2019 by John

Looking for a French getaway without the France part?

France is a gorgeous place, enriched with so much culture and history.

That culture has spread throughout the planet in the last 400-or so years due to, you guessed it, colonialism; so there are lots of vacation destinations where you can practice your French without actually going to France.

In this article, we’re going to explore 10 of the most beautiful French speaking cities outside of France. After you’re done reading this, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and get on the next flight out of town.

Bon voyage, let’s get this show on the road.

1. Montreal

Montreal is one of the jewels of Canada. If you’ve ever been, you know that Montreal feels more like a European city than a North American one.

It’s laid back, full of incredible art and architecture, and pretty cheap to visit.

Check out one of Montreal’s dozens of art museums, visit the old town, and go to one of their award-winning restaurants to experience French-fusion cuisine at its finest.

Montreal is the next best thing to visiting the homeland .

And, if you don’t know how to Talk in French , no worries. Most of Montreal’s population is fluent in English as well.

2. Brussels

The Francization of Brussels began in the late 18th century.

Now, Brussels is one of the capitals of European culture, with its inhabitants speaking Dutch, Flemish, and French. When visiting this incredible city, you’ll be struck by the overwhelming beauty of the architecture

Brussels’ Grand Place was voted one of the most beautiful squares in the world and it doesn’t disappoint. The best way to see this ancient city is on foot.

Take a walk around the square, visit galleries, eat a waffle, and drink beer to get the most out of your trip to Brussels.

3. Antananarivo (Madagascar)

French occupation in Madagascar ended in the mid-1960s but its culture lives on to a certain degree. Antananarivo’s tourism industry isn’t what you would normally expect from a capital city, but the sheer beauty of this African island is sure to knock your socks off.

The best thing to do in this picturesque city is to head out on a wildlife excursion. Nothing really compares to the incredible Madagascaran landscape.

4. Kigali (Rwanda)

Rwanda is known by westerners as a place of genocide and civil war.

While the remembrance of those events is still principal to the experience of a Rwandan vacation, Kigali offers so much more in the way of tourism. In fact, it is known as one of the cleanest and safest African capitals.

Aside from the incredible markets, galleries, and restaurants, your visit will be an educational one.

A trip to the Kigali genocide memorial will teach you about what the hospitable Rwandans have gone through. Nothing is more affecting than a visit to the historic Nyamata Church, where the remains of 50,000 victims are buried.

5. New Orleans

No stranger to tragedy, New Orleans has carved out a place as one of America’s most fascinating and desirable locations to visit.

There’s no place in the US quite like New Orleans. Thousands of people gather every March for Mardi Gras, but the city offers a lot more to those who visit at other times of the year.

A summertime visit to the French Quarter will provide you a cultural experience like no other in America. French and Cajun culture permeates the food scene in the Big Easy and the incredible walking tours highlight the macabre elements of this incredible old town.

Switzerland is known as one of the most beautiful places in the world and Geneva is at the heart of that.

If being surrounded by the alps isn’t enough for you, Geneva is home to CERN, which is Europe’s home for nuclear research. Famously the site of the large hadron collider , CERN’s headquarters has two museums and various exhibits.

It’s a perfect destination for the budding scientist.

For the more conventional tourist, Geneva’s Vielle Ville provides a look into history. Twisting cobblestone streets and stairways wind around fountains, terraces, and lookouts.

At the top, you’ll find a beautiful medieval cathedral.

7. Dakar (Senegal)

Dakar is Senegal’s capital city and home to incredible beaches, art, music, and food. A visit to Goree Island will be enough to convince you that a move might be in order. 

There is no shortage of cliff walks, mosques, and museums to keep you busy during the day and incredible dance parties to keep you up all night. If dancing isn’t your thing, then visits to Senegal’s national parks and nature reserves are a nice alternative.

8. Port-au-Prince (Haiti)

Port-au-Prince was ravaged by the Haiti earthquake in 2010 and continues its rebuild today. That doesn’t stop the infectious locals from having a great time. This capital city is home to incredible museums, memorials, parks, and natural wonders.

To see the sheer damage of the earthquake, all you have to do is look at the National Palace or the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, both of which are shells of their former selves.

While depressing, the resilience of Haiti’s population will serve as an inspiring tale of perseverance.

9. Marrakesh (Morocco)

Morocco’s ties to France are long-standing. French isn’t one of the national languages of Morocco any longer, but the French vibe is still everpresent in Marrakesh.

The incredible centuries-old architecture will leave your Instagram feed buzzing. The best way to see Marrakesh is by eating, taking in the city by foot, and marveling at the art and architecture that the city is entrenched in. 

10. Quebec City

As one of Canada’s oldest settlements, Quebec City is a museum of the country’s French colonial heritage. If you’re a winter person , QC’s vibe is particularly suited for you.

Stay in the ice hotel that is built every winter out of 30,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice, or take the kids to Valcartier’s winter playground.

Strolling through old Quebec is as similar to a European vacation as you can get in Canada. It’s cobblestone roads are chock-full of sidewalk bistros and cafes, artisanal shops, and galleries.

Another great French city to visit on a budget.

The Best French Speaking Cities

The best French speaking cities aren’t all in France, as you can see.

No matter what type of vacation you want to have, each of these world-class cities has something for you. As someone interested in French customs and lifestyle, you’ll get to see how the influence of France has affected these far off lands.

Even if you don’t speak French, these are all wonderful cities to visit, with incredible locals to help you get over any language barriers that might arise. It’s time to pack your bags and bid adieu to America!

For more fun and informative travel articles, visit my page .

About Me – Cool Guy :)

Top 10 French-Speaking Places to Visit

When people think about traveling to a French-speaking area, Paris immediately comes to mind, and rightly so, the city of lights has a lot to offer and should be on everyone’s list. However, there are literally hundreds of fascinating French-speaking places you could visit. This list should tickle your travel inspiration. Keep in mind though that in order to practice your French, you will have to refuse to speak English, as most people will address tourists in English, especially in the popular tourist areas.

Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva is the second most populous city in Switzerland after Zurich. It is located in the French-speaking part of the country bordering France. Language is not the only thing influenced by its neighbor; the cuisine, architecture, and the majestic view of Mont Blanc makes the city absolutely charming. Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, sits at the foot of the surrounding mountains. The city’s popular ski resorts attract thousands of visitors throughout the winter. When summertime rolls around, nearby beaches begin to burst with activity. Regardless of the season, everyone can enjoy the city’s strong café culture, specialty shops, beautiful gardens, restaurants and gorgeous views.

Marseille, France

Marseille is the second largest and oldest city in France. It is also the country’s largest port for cruise ships, which is very convenient if you are interested in a cruise on the Mediterranean sea. In 2013, Marseille was crowned as the European Capital of Culture. The event featured more than 900 cultural events throughout the city and its surroundings. Marseille’s contemporary architecture stands side by side with seaside roads where pedestrians and cyclists can enjoy an almost cinematic experience of sunshine covered sandy beaches and narrow, steep-walled inlets.

Montreal, Canada

If you’re dying to get a taste of North American and European styles combined into one, then Montreal is the place to go. The city’s rich culture blends seamlessly into Montreal’s modern New World atmosphere. In warmer months, the city springs into a joyful tourist destination filled with relentless attractions from beautiful parks, museums, tree-lined streets, cathedrals, and of course dining and shopping. There is always a buffet of things to do. In the colder winter months, you can explore Montreal’s Underground City, which is the world’s largest underground network. It is filled with shopping centers, restaurants, movie theaters, and cafés to keep you busy.

Brussels, Belgium

Europe is full of places worth visiting and Brussels should be on everyone’s list. Located in the heart of Europe, it is easily accessible from neighboring countries by high speed rail. Brussels is a hub of languages, traditions, and cultures. The city offers a myriad of attractions, including numerous museums and impressive architectures, but nothing compares to the Grand Place, often considered Europe’s most beautiful medieval square. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nice, France

The beautiful city of Nice can be family-friendly, adventurous, and romantic at the same time. Sunshine beams down on Nice most days of the year and makes sunset an almost everyday event on its stunning pebble beach. The streets are often stages for artistic performances, and the night life is busy. It is a working combination between a modern city and an old world feel. The old town of Nice hasn’t changed much in the last three centuries. You can visit flower markets, food markets, flea markets, and an overwhelming number of bars and restaurants. Castle Hill offers the best view in the city, and is often considered the top tourist attraction in Nice.

Corsica, France

Corsica is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea about 300 kilometers from Nice and can be accessed with a ferry. At a whopping 180 kilometers long, Corsica’s GR 20 trail is considered by many to be the toughest long distance trail in Europe. Corsica has it all, and is lauded for its deep forests, valleys, beaches, coastal cities, hilltop villages, and a lot more. Corsica has been part of France for about 250 years, but still has a totally different atmosphere from the mainland.

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

While Port-au-Prince, Haiti is not the first city that comes to mind for a French-speaking travel destination, it has a lot to offer. The chaotic 2010 earthquake hit the city and shook its foundations to a great extent. Six years later, Haiti is now proclaiming itself ready to welcome tourists again. While Port-au-Prince is certainly not a luxury destination and a lot of safety precautions must be taken, adventurous travelers often agree that a visit to the place can be one of the most life-affirming experience one can have.

Lyon, France

Lyon is the third largest city in France. For the past 500 years or so, Lyon has been an economic powerhouse where business, industry, commercialization, and banking thrive. Lifestyle is busy with prominent universities and an irresistible shopping scene. Clubbing and drinking are major features of the city, and the cuisine will take you through wild culinary adventures. Old Lyon, the historical part of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the largest intact Renaissance area in Europe.

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec city is an old settlement in North America, and is regarded by many as the crown jewel of French Canada. Quebec City is a living museum, sprinkled with sceneries to remind you of old photographs from the 17th and 18th centuries. With a strong sense of Old Europe, classic bistros and sidewalk cafés linger on every cobblestone street and the compact size of the old city makes it ideal for walking. The Château Frontenac dominates the city’s skyline and is the most photographed hotel in the world. Quebec city is one of the snowiest cities in Canada and there are plenty of things to do in the winter. If you are feeling adventurous and are not too cold sensitive, you can stay in the city’s true Ice Hotel, built every winter out of 30 000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice. Quebec’s Winter Carnival also features numerous ice and snow sculptures.

Paris, France

Paris is instantly recognizable even for first-time visitors, the city’s numerous landmarks are a real treat to the eye. The local shops, cafés, and markets ooze with culture and class. The city of lights is considered by many to be the most romantic city in the world. It features some of the world’s best museums, including the Louvre and the Orsay. Paris is also a world-class culinary destination with 70 Michelin starred restaurants, 10 of them being 3-starred. Paris is one of the top tourist destination in the world, absorbing different cultures and traditions from every corner of the globe, but locals remain true Parisians nonetheless.

If you enjoyed our top ten list, please make sure to give us a thumbs up. If you have any suggestions or ideas about other French-speaking destinations, please make your suggestion in the comments section below. If you are interested in learning French, or brushing up your French before you leave on one of these great destinations, checkout our YouTube channel or website at Ouino.com . Thanks a lot! Until next time!

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Top 10 French-speaking Cities to visit

Dreaming of your next holidays? Practice your French in any of these French-speaking cities to visit once in a lifetime. I’ll never forget my first time in Paris. Paris is a feeling. I get chills thinking about it. You can’t NOT be romantic about Paris. I think it fits the bill for almost any kind of traveler. Whether you want to relax, explore, learn, feast… it’s all there, waiting for you.

Another amazing and exotic place to practice French is Tahiti, French Polynesia is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Jump on a plane and travel to Vaitape in Bora Bora where the blue is so blue that it hurts your eyes! There are so many beautiful places to practice French in Europe and all around the world. I gathered 10 of my favorite places.

Alors, quelle est votre prochaine destination?

10. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti: just the word conjures up centuries’ worth of images: Hibiscus flowers; bronzed dancers in grass skirts; a humid breeze over the turquoise sea. The islands of French Polynesia became legends the minute the first European explorers reached their home shores with tales of a heaven on earth where the soil was fertile, life was simple and lust was guilt-free. While the lingering hype is outdated, French Polynesia is still about as dreamy as reality gets.

9. Marseille, France.

Marseille is the second largest and oldest city in France. It is also the country’s largest port for cruise ships, which is very convenient if you are interested in a cruise on the Mediterranean sea. In 2013, Marseille was crowned as the European Capital of Culture. The event featured more than 900 cultural events throughout the city and its surroundings. Marseille’s contemporary architecture stands side by side with seaside roads where pedestrians and cyclists can enjoy an almost cinematic experience of sunshine covered sandy beaches and narrow, steep-walled inlets.

8. Montreal, Canada.

If you’re dying to get a taste of North American and European styles combined into one, then Montreal is the place to go. The city’s rich culture blends seamlessly into Montreal’s modern New World atmosphere. In warmer months, the city springs into a joyful tourist destination filled with relentless attractions from beautiful parks, museums, tree-lined streets, cathedrals, and of course dining and shopping. There is always a buffet of things to do. In the colder winter months, you can explore Montreal’s Underground City, which is the world’s largest underground network. It is filled with shopping centers, restaurants, movie theaters, and cafés to keep you busy.

7. Brussels, Belgium.

Europe is full of places worth visiting and Brussels should be on everyone’s list. Located in the heart of Europe, it is easily accessible from neighboring countries by high speed rail. Brussels is a hub of languages, traditions, and cultures. The city offers a myriad of attractions, including numerous museums and impressive architectures, but nothing compares to the Grand Place, often considered Europe’s most beautiful medieval square. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Nice, France.

The beautiful city of Nice can be family-friendly, adventurous, and romantic at the same time. Sunshine beams down on Nice most days of the year and makes sunset an almost everyday event on its stunning pebble beach. The streets are often stages for artistic performances, and the night life is busy. It is a working combination between a modern city and an old world feel. The old town of Nice hasn’t changed much in the last three centuries. You can visit flower markets, food markets, flea markets, and an overwhelming number of bars and restaurants. Castle Hill offers the best view in the city, and is often considered the top tourist attraction in Nice.

5. Corsica, France.

Corsica is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea about 300 kilometers from Nice and can be accessed with a ferry. At a whopping 180 kilometers long, Corsica’s GR 20 trail is considered by many to be the toughest long distance trail in Europe. Corsica has it all, and is lauded for its deep forests, valleys, beaches, coastal cities, hilltop villages, and a lot more. Corsica has been part of France for about 250 years, but still has a totally different atmosphere from the mainland.

4. Geneva, Switzerland.

Geneva is the second most populous city in Switzerland after Zurich. It is located in the French-speaking part of the country bordering France. Language is not the only thing influenced by its neighbor; the cuisine, architecture, and the majestic view of Mont Blanc makes the city absolutely charming. Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, sits at the foot of the surrounding mountains. The city’s popular ski resorts attract thousands of visitors throughout the winter. When summertime rolls around, nearby beaches begin to burst with activity. Regardless of the season, everyone can enjoy the city’s strong café culture, specialty shops, beautiful gardens, restaurants and gorgeous views.

3. Lyon, France.

Lyon is the third largest city in France. For the past 500 years or so, Lyon has been an economic powerhouse where business, industry, commercialization, and banking thrive. Lifestyle is busy with prominent universities and an irresistible shopping scene. Clubbing and drinking are major features of the city, and the cuisine will take you through wild culinary adventures. Old Lyon, the historical part of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the largest intact Renaissance area in Europe.

2. Quebec City, Canada.

Quebec city is an old settlement in North America, and is regarded by many as the crown jewel of French Canada. Quebec City is a living museum, sprinkled with sceneries to remind you of old photographs from the 17th and 18th centuries. With a strong sense of Old Europe, classic bistros and sidewalk cafés linger on every cobblestone street and the compact size of the old city makes it ideal for walking. The Château Frontenac dominates the city’s skyline and is the most photographed hotel in the world. Quebec city is one of the snowiest cities in Canada and there are plenty of things to do in the winter. If you are feeling adventurous and are not too cold sensitive, you can stay in the city’s true Ice Hotel, built every winter out of 30 000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice. Quebec’s Winter Carnival also features numerous ice and snow sculptures.

1. Paris, France.

Paris is instantly recognizable even for first-time visitors, the city’s numerous landmarks are a real treat to the eye. The local shops, cafés, and markets ooze with culture and class. The city of lights is considered by many to be the most romantic city in the world. It features some of the world’s best museums, including the Louvre and the Orsay. Paris is also a world-class culinary destination with 70 Michelin starred restaurants, 10 of them being 3-starred. Paris is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, absorbing different cultures and traditions from every corner of the globe, but locals remain true Parisians nonetheless.

Ready to start learning French before your trip?

Your French Transformation program is designed for students with none or little French knowledge who would like to reach an intermediate level of French.

This course has been designed by a passionate French teacher   Lea  who wishes to have had access to a similar course when she was learning other languages. The classes are taught by  Coralie who is a bilingual French Canadian teacher loved by her current students with over 80 five-star Google reviews.

Your “French Transformation” is a  mini Bootcamp  to learn French. It is a very practical course including real-life situations.

You can significantly improve your French in 3 months starting from scratch  if you follow all the steps and submit all homework through our  private group on Facebook (Members only) .

We are sharing with you extra resources including list of movies, books, youtube channels, podcasts to immerse yourself in the French language and culture.

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12 Famous French Monuments That You Must Visit!

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: August 2, 2020  - Last updated: October 20, 2023

France is a country filled with fascinating attractions , impressive architecture, great food , and beautiful monuments, making it one of the most visited countries in the world.

Its rich and intriguing history also means that it has so many monuments that define or honor important events and people.

From a much-criticized “monstrosity” to a natural landmark or even a grand palace, here are some of the finest and famous French monuments that you must visit.

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12 Famous French Monuments That You Must Visit

1. arc de triomphe, paris, 2. the eiffel tower, paris, 3. grande arche de la défense, puteaux, 4. the july column, place de la bastille, 5. the millau viaduct, 6. mont saint-michel, 7. canal du midi, toulouse, 8. notre dame de paris, 9. the panthéon, paris, 10. pont du gard, nimes, 11. château de versailles, travel tips and resources.

One of the most recognizable monuments in France and not just in Paris is the magnificent Arc de Triomphe . It was built in 1836 to honor the soldiers who perished while protecting France during both the French Revolution and Napoleonic wars.

Underneath the Arc, visitors will also find a memorial for World War I called The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Situated at the Place Charles de Gaulle in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe is regarded as a fine example of Roman architecture.

Buy your ticket online here.

Without a doubt one of the most iconic French monuments,  the Eiffel Tower is the ultimate Parisian symbol.

Designed by Gustave Eiffel , the tower was inaugurated during the 1889 Exposition Universelle. Many influential Parisians at that time called this an eyesore.

Today, it remains to be one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, an ultimate symbol of Paris and a beloved tourist destination.

A symbolic structure that’s also called La Grande Arche de la Fraternité or La Grande Arche, it is one of the must-see French monuments. Its name translates to the Great Arch of the Defense or the Great Arch of the Fraternity.

Designed by Johan Otto V. Spreckelsen, it was part of a competition in 1982. It was finished in 1989, as a monument built to honor the bicentennial of the French Revolution.

Located in Puteaux, an island in the Seine, Grande Arche is at the end of the Axe Historique, a “line” of monuments that stretches through Paris.

The July Column is a French monument that celebrates the Trois Glorieuses, or the “three glorious” days of 27–29 July 1830.

These dates saw the fall of King Charles X of France and the start of the “July Monarchy” of Louis-Philippe, King of the French.

Constructed between 1835 and 1840, it stands in the center of the former site of the Bastille prison, now called Place de la Bastille in Paris.

Also known as Colonne de Juillet, the structure is 47 meters high. It consists of 21 cast bronze drums on a white marble base and topped by a statue called La Génie de la Liberté (the Spirit of Freedom).

One of the newest monuments in France that easily became a must-see is the impressive Millau Viaduct.

This stunning multi-span bridge was opened in 2004, in Millau in Southern France.  At 343 meters high, it is taller than the Eiffel Tower and stretches to about 2,460 meters.

Made of concrete and steel, the Millau Viaduct holds the distinction of being the tallest bridge in the world.

The fact that Mont Saint-Michel was among the first places to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site makes it such an iconic French monument. It is an island, a fortress, and a church in one.

This Normandy attraction is the third most visited place in France. It is completely surrounded by water, and can only be accessed during low tide.

A remarkable feat of civil engineering, Canal du Midi is one of the must-visit monuments in France.

Located in the southern city of Toulouse ,  the Canal du Midi connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

From Toulouse to the Étang de Thau, the canal spans 240 kilometers. It was constructed at the end of the 17th century and was originally built to transport goods.

Regarded as one of the most important cathedrals in France, Notre Dame de Paris is also one of the most famous in the world.

Built in 1163, this medieval Catholic cathedral is said to be one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture.

It is located on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement of Paris . Notre Dame is known as the most visited monument in Europe, even after the April 2019 fire.

The affected areas are slowly being reconstructed based on an accurate reconstruction plan.

Another must-visit French monument located in Paris is The Panthéon. It was built around 1757 by the architect Jacques-Germain Soufflé as the Church of Sainte-Geneviève.

Later on, during the  French Revolution, the church was secularized. It is now the final resting place of many French luminaries.

The Panthéon’s illustrious crypt contains the remains of famous French personalities such as Marie Curie, Victor Hugo , and Voltaire.

Be sure to check out the replica of Foucault’s pendulum here and see how it gave evidence of the earth’s rotation.

Located in Nimes in the Occitanie region of southern France, Pont du Gard stands out among its other Roman structures.

The aqueduct bridge is said to be constructed in the 1st century A.D., making it one of the oldest French monuments.

Regarded as an architectural masterpiece, Pont du Gard was built on three levels, with various arches on each. It was initially built to bring water to the region and is now one of the most famous bridges in France.

The grand and opulent Château de Versailles , or Palace of Versailles, is one of the most historic monuments in France.

Built in 1631, this grandiose château was the home of French Kings for over a century.

After the 1789 French Revolution, the palace ceased to be a residence. It was reconstructed and restored, and now one of the most visited places in France.

It is known for its massive garden , the exquisite royal apartments, the Grand Gallery including the Galerie des Glaces, or Hall of Mirrors, a chapel, and two smaller palaces.

12. Palais des Papes, Avignon

Situated by the banks of the Rhône River in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region, the Palais des Papes is an important French monument. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also the largest medieval fortress and gothic palace in Europe. The palace was built in Avignon in 1252, from a design by two of France’s best architects, Pierre Peysson and Jean de Louvres.

The opulent ornamentation, meanwhile, was the work of Italians Simone Martini and Matteo Giovanetti.  The palace became the seat of the papacy for several decades before it returned to Rome.

Today, it is one of the most visited attractions outside of Paris. Some of the best things to see in Palais des Papes are the ceremonial halls, private apartments of the popes, and Matteo Giovannetti’s frescoes in the chapels.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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