20 Beautiful Summer Destinations in France
Sun-drenched beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes—France is packed with incredible summer destinations. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous getaway on the French Riviera or a peaceful retreat in the countryside, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.
From coastal escapes to mountain adventures, these destinations offer a mix of relaxation, culture, and outdoor fun. If you’re planning a summer trip, here are some of the most beautiful places in France to explore when the sun is shining.
Nice
The capital of the French Riviera, Nice is a dream summer destination. With its promenade-lined beaches, colorful old town, and lively markets, the city blends elegance with Mediterranean charm. The Promenade des Anglais is perfect for a seaside stroll, while the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) offers stunning panoramic views.
For art lovers, the Marc Chagall National Museum and Matisse Museum showcase incredible collections. Don’t miss the chance to relax on Plage Beau Rivage, one of Nice’s best-known beaches, or indulge in a delicious plate of socca, a local chickpea pancake.
Saint-Tropez
Once a small fishing village, Saint-Tropez is now one of the most glamorous summer destinations in France. Known for its luxurious yachts, designer boutiques, and lively nightlife, this Riviera hotspot attracts celebrities and sun-seekers alike.
Head to Pampelonne Beach, where the famous Club 55 offers an exclusive beach experience. If you prefer something quieter, explore the old town (La Ponche), with its winding streets and charming cafés. Sunset at the Citadel of Saint-Tropez provides breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.
Cannes
Famous for its film festival, Cannes is a dazzling coastal city with golden beaches and a vibrant atmosphere. The Boulevard de la Croisette is the heart of the city, lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, and designer shops.
Take a ferry to the Lérins Islands, a peaceful escape from the city crowds. The Île Sainte-Marguerite is home to the mysterious Fort Royal, where the Man in the Iron Mask was once imprisoned. For a taste of local life, visit the Marché Forville, a bustling market filled with fresh produce and Provençal specialties.
Biarritz
A paradise for surfers and beach lovers, Biarritz offers a perfect mix of elegance and laid-back vibes. This Basque coastal gem is known for its golden sand beaches, Art Deco architecture, and world-class surf spots.
The Grand Plage is the city’s most iconic beach, while Côte des Basques is ideal for catching waves. Visit the Rocher de la Vierge, a dramatic rock formation connected by a footbridge, for stunning ocean views. Foodies should try the local Basque cake (gâteau basque), a delicious almond or cherry-filled pastry.
Annecy
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is a picture-perfect destination with turquoise lakes, charming canals, and medieval architecture. The Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest in Europe, is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or boat rides.
Stroll through the old town, where flower-covered bridges and pastel-colored houses create a fairytale setting. The Château d’Annecy, a former residence of the Counts of Geneva, offers spectacular views over the lake and mountains.
Provence (Lavender Fields)
A summer in France wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the breathtaking lavender fields of Provence. The best time to visit is from late June to early August, when the fields are in full bloom.
The Valensole Plateau is the most famous spot, with endless rows of fragrant purple flowers. Pair your visit with a stop in Gordes, one of France’s most beautiful villages, or visit the Abbaye de Sénanque, a stunning 12th-century monastery surrounded by lavender fields.
Bordeaux
For wine lovers, Bordeaux is an essential summer destination. This UNESCO-listed city boasts elegant architecture, world-class wineries, and a lively riverfront. Take a stroll along the Place de la Bourse and see the famous Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
A wine tour in the Médoc or Saint-Émilion regions is a must. Stop by the Cité du Vin, an interactive wine museum, to deepen your appreciation of France’s legendary wine culture.
Mont Saint-Michel
A true fairy-tale destination, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most iconic landmarks. This UNESCO-listed island abbey rises dramatically from the sea, creating an unforgettable sight.
Visit during low tide to walk across the sandy bay or experience the dramatic water rise during high tide. The winding streets leading up to the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel are filled with historic charm and small cafés serving omelette de la mère Poulard, a local specialty.
Gorges du Verdon
Often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Gorges du Verdon is a breathtaking natural wonder in southeastern France. The turquoise waters of the Verdon River carve through the limestone cliffs, creating stunning landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures.
Kayaking or paddleboarding through the gorge is an unforgettable experience. Hikers can explore trails like the Sentier Martel, offering panoramic views. The nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix is perfect for swimming and picnicking along the shore.
Corsica
Known as the “Island of Beauty,” Corsica is a paradise of crystal-clear waters, rugged mountains, and charming coastal towns. This Mediterranean gem offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails.
The Calanques de Piana, with its striking red cliffs, is a must-see. For beach lovers, Palombaggia and Santa Giulia boast some of the finest sands in Europe. If you love hiking, the GR20 trail is one of the most spectacular long-distance hikes in the world.
Étretat
Famous for its dramatic white cliffs and natural arches, Étretat is one of the most breathtaking coastal destinations in France. The Falaises d’Étretat offer stunning panoramic views over the English Channel, perfect for hikers and photographers.
For an unforgettable experience, walk to the Arch and Needle (L’Aiguille et l’Arche), a towering rock formation rising from the sea. The Jardins d’Étretat, a beautifully designed clifftop garden, provides a peaceful escape with artistic sculptures and stunning sea views.
Carcassonne
Step into a medieval fairy tale in Carcassonne, a stunning UNESCO-listed fortress city in southern France. Its well-preserved ramparts and cobbled streets transport visitors back in time to the age of knights and castles.
The Cité de Carcassonne is the main attraction, with its double walls, 52 towers, and the impressive Château Comtal. Visit in the evening when the city is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, cassoulet, a hearty dish made with white beans, duck, and sausage.
Colmar
With its half-timbered houses, flower-filled canals, and storybook charm, Colmar is one of the most picturesque towns in Alsace. The Little Venice (Petite Venise) district is a must-visit, where colorful houses line the canals, creating a dreamy atmosphere.
Wine lovers will enjoy exploring the Alsace Wine Route, which passes through charming villages and vineyards. The town’s Christmas markets are legendary, but in summer, Colmar is equally magical, with outdoor cafés and lively festivals.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
For adventure seekers, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is the ultimate summer destination in the French Alps. Sitting at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, this alpine town offers incredible hiking, climbing, and outdoor activities.
Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for jaw-dropping views of the glaciers and peaks. Hikers will love the Lac Blanc trail, which offers breathtaking reflections of Mont Blanc in its crystal-clear waters. The town itself is vibrant, with excellent restaurants and cozy mountain lodges.
Rocamadour
Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Rocamadour is a stunning medieval village and an important pilgrimage site in southwestern France. Its stone houses and chapels seem to cling to the rock face, creating an unforgettable sight.
Climb the Grand Staircase to reach the Sanctuary of Rocamadour, home to the famous Black Madonna statue. For a unique experience, visit the Gouffre de Padirac, a spectacular underground cave system with boat tours on a subterranean river.
Reims
The heart of France’s Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit for wine lovers and history buffs. This city is famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were crowned for centuries.
A trip to Reims wouldn’t be complete without a Champagne tasting tour. Visit legendary houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Ruinart, where you can explore underground cellars and enjoy world-class bubbly.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Tucked away in the Dordogne region, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a beautifully preserved medieval town with golden stone buildings and lively markets. Walking through its narrow alleys and picturesque squares feels like stepping into the past.
Food lovers will be in heaven here, with specialties like foie gras, truffles, and duck confit filling the market stalls. Explore the nearby Lascaux Caves, home to some of the world’s most famous prehistoric cave paintings.
Île de Ré
A favorite summer escape for Parisians, Île de Ré is a charming island off the Atlantic coast known for its whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, and scenic bike paths. The island is perfect for exploring on two wheels, with over 60 miles of cycling trails connecting picturesque harbors and salt marshes.
The Phare des Baleines lighthouse offers spectacular coastal views. Enjoy fresh seafood in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the island’s lively main town, and don’t miss trying the famous Île de Ré oysters.
Dinan
One of Brittany’s best-preserved medieval towns, Dinan is a hidden gem with ramparts, timber-framed houses, and a stunning riverfront. Walking through the Rue du Jerzual, a steep, cobbled street lined with artisan workshops, is like stepping back in time.
Visit the Château de Dinan, a historic fortress with panoramic views, or take a boat ride on the Rance River for a peaceful summer afternoon. The town’s crêperies serve some of the best Breton galettes and cider in the region.
Giverny
A dream for art lovers, Giverny is the home of Claude Monet, the legendary Impressionist painter. His beautiful gardens, filled with water lilies and colorful flowers, inspired some of his most famous masterpieces.
Stroll through Monet’s house and gardens, where you’ll see the iconic Japanese bridge and pond that appear in many of his paintings. The surrounding countryside is equally charming, making Giverny a perfect day trip from Paris.
