The best municipalities in France

Eguisheim is a charming village in Alsace, known for its circular streets and well-preserved half-timbered houses. The village is surrounded by vineyards and is part of the Route des Vins d'Alsace. Eguisheim was voted the most beautiful village in France in 2013 and offers a picturesque setting with flower-adorned houses and narrow streets. Attractions include the Château Saint-Léon, the Chapel of Saint-Léon IX, and numerous wine cellars where visitors can taste the excellent Alsatian wines. Eguisheim is a popular destination for wine lovers and offers an idyllic atmosphere.

Riquewihr, a picturesque village in Alsace, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the charm of its half-timbered houses. Nestled in the rolling vineyards of the region, Riquewihr offers visitors a unique atmosphere shaped by French Savoir-vivre and a rich history. Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and cozy wine taverns invite exploration of the village and the tasting of famous Alsatian wines. During a holiday in Riquewihr, one can also discover historic buildings such as the Dolder Tower and the Torturm Museum, which tell the story of the region's past. The surrounding area has much to offer as well, with numerous hiking trails winding through the vineyards and picturesque neighboring villages like Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr, which have also preserved their traditional charm.

Colmar, often referred to as Little Venice, is located in Alsace and is known for its picturesque canals and well-preserved half-timbered houses. The old town of Colmar offers a charming mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with highlights such as the Pfister House, the Koïfhus, and St. Martin's Church. The Unterlinden Museum houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is also a significant center for Alsace wines and offers numerous wine tasting opportunities. The city is particularly enchanting during the Christmas season, when the streets and squares are festively decorated and Christmas markets take place.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-renowned commune in the French Alps, at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. The region is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a variety of activities year-round. In winter, Chamonix is a top-notch ski resort with slopes for all difficulty levels, cross-country ski trails, and ice climbing routes. In summer, the region transforms into a paradise for hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers. The Aiguille du Midi cable car provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Chamonix itself has a charming old town with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafés. The region is also known for its rich history in mountaineering and is home to the Alpine Museum, which documents the development of mountain sports.

Annecy, often referred to as the Venice of the Alps, is located in eastern France by Lake Annecy and is known for its picturesque canals, well-preserved old town, and stunning mountain landscapes. The city offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating on the lake, cycling along the lakeshore, and hiking in the surrounding mountains. Attractions include the Château d'Annecy, the Palais de l'Isle, and the Gothic church of Saint-Maurice. Annecy is also renowned for its vibrant markets and delicious regional cuisine. The city has a charming atmosphere and is a popular destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Dinan is a picturesque town in Brittany, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming old town. The town is situated on a hill overlooking the River Rance and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Highlights include the city walls, built in the 13th century, and the Castle of Dinan. The old town is characterized by cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and cozy cafés. The port of Dinan along the banks of the Rance is a popular starting point for boat trips and hikes along the river. Dinan is also known for its lively markets and traditional Breton festivals. The rich history and beautiful surroundings make Dinan a fascinating destination in Brittany.

Honfleur is a picturesque harbor town in Normandy, known for its historic harbor lined with colorful houses and lively cafés. The Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) is a popular motif for artists and photographers. Honfleur offers numerous attractions, including the wooden church of Sainte-Catherine, the Eugène Boudin Museum, and the Lieutenance, a former city gate. The town is also famous for its culinary specialties, including fresh seafood and local ciders. Honfleur exudes a charming atmosphere with its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and boutiques.

Rocamadour is an impressive village in the Occitanie region, dramatically perched on a steep cliff overlooking the Alzou River. The village is an important pilgrimage site and is known for its holy site, which has attracted pilgrims since the Middle Ages. Key attractions include the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur and the Chapel of Notre-Dame with the Black Madonna. Visitors can climb the Way of the Cross, which leads from the city gates to the holy site, enjoying the spectacular view of the valley along the way. Rocamadour also offers charming streets, local markets, and restaurants serving regional specialties.

Les Baux-de-Provence is a picturesque village perched high on a rock in the Alpilles mountains. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape of Provence. The village is known for its well-preserved ruins of the medieval fortress Château des Baux and its narrow, cobblestone streets. Les Baux-de-Provence attracts artists and photographers inspired by the scenic beauty and unique light of the region. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, art galleries, and museums, including the Carrières de Lumières, a former quarry that today offers impressive audiovisual art shows. The village also features excellent restaurants and boutiques offering local products and handcrafted goods.

Gordes is located in the heart of Provence on a hill and is known for its spectacular views of the Luberon Valley. The village is characterized by cobbled streets, ancient stone houses, and impressive historical buildings, including the 11th-century Château de Gordes. Gordes is a popular destination for artists and photographers inspired by the beauty and light of Provence. Every Tuesday, a lively market takes place, offering local products such as olive oil, cheese, and lavender. The nearby Sénanque Abbey, surrounded by lavender fields, is another highlight of the region.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque medieval village in Provence, known for its art galleries, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The village is situated on a hill and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Saint-Paul-de-Vence was a popular meeting place for artists like Marc Chagall, who lived and is buried here. Major attractions include the city wall, the Collegiate Church, and the Fondation Maeght, a museum of modern art. The village offers numerous restaurants, boutiques, and artisan shops. Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a popular destination for art lovers and culture enthusiasts.