Hidden Gems of France: 10 Breathtaking Places You Need to Visit

When people think of France, they usually picture the Eiffel Tower, the lavender fields of Provence, or the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera. But there’s so much more to discover beyond the famous landmarks. Scattered across the country are hidden gems: charming villages, breathtaking natural landscapes, and historic spots that most travelers never get to see.

If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a deep dive into local culture, or just a new place to fall in love with, these underrated destinations offer something truly special. In this article, I am taking you off the beaten path to explore ten of France’s most beautiful and overlooked places, each with its own unique story to tell.

1. Eguisheim, Alsace: A Fairytale Village

Tucked away in the Alsace wine region, Eguisheim looks like it belongs in a storybook. Its pastel-colored, half-timbered houses and winding cobblestone streets were actually the inspiration for Belle’s hometown in Beauty and the Beast.

• Why you’ll love it: It’s one of France’s most charming wine villages, with picture-perfect streets and cozy wine-tasting spots.
  

• Must-do: Walk the circular village streets, sip local Riesling, and visit Château Saint-Léon.
  

• Best time to visit: Spring and summer for vineyards in bloom or December for a magical Christmas market.

2. Salers, Auvergne: A Medieval Mountain Escape

High up in the volcanic Cantal region, Salers is a dream for history buffs and nature lovers. Its dramatic grey stone buildings and panoramic mountain views make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

• Why you’ll love it: This medieval village is authentic, breathtaking, and blissfully tourist-free.
  

• Must-do: Explore Gothic architecture, taste the famous Salers cheese, and hike in the surrounding countryside.
  

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best hiking weather.

3. Locronan, Brittany: A Step Back in Time

Walking through Locronan feels like being in a historical film, and for good reason. This perfectly preserved 17th-century village, with its cobbled streets and grand granite houses, has been a set for many period dramas.

• Why you’ll love it: It’s a stunning time capsule with a strong Celtic heritage.
  

• Must-do: Visit the Saint-Ronan Church, browse artisan shops, and hike the scenic trails nearby.
  

• Best time to visit: Summer for lively festivals or winter for a cozy, misty ambiance.

4. Gorges du Verdon, Provence: France’s Grand Canyon

Everyone flocks to Provence for the lavender fields, but few make it to the Gorges du Verdon, a turquoise river canyon that’s heaven for adventure seekers.

• Why you’ll love it: It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful natural wonders, perfect for kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing.
  

• Must-do: Paddle along the Verdon River, visit the cliffside village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and drive the jaw-dropping Corniche Sublime.
  

• Best time to visit: May to September for water activities.

5. Albi, Occitanie: A Red-Brick Masterpiece

Sitting on the Tarn River, Albi is an architectural wonder with its striking red-brick buildings and medieval charm. It’s also the birthplace of famed artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

• Why you’ll love it: A mix of stunning history, art, and culture in a laid-back setting.
  

• Must-do: Marvel at the immense Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, explore the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, and wander the old town.
  

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

6. Île de Porquerolles, French Riviera: A Secluded Island Paradise

Just a short boat ride from the Côte d’Azur, this car-free island is a hidden paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

• Why you’ll love it: It feels like a secret escape far from the Riviera’s crowds.
  

• Must-do: Cycle around the island, relax on Plage Notre-Dame (one of France’s most beautiful beaches), and snorkel in Port-Cros National Park.
  

• Best time to visit: May to September for the best beach weather.

7. Rocamadour, Occitanie: A Village in the Sky

Clinging to the side of a limestone cliff, Rocamadour is a breathtaking medieval pilgrimage site that looks like it’s floating in the air.

• Why you’ll love it: Its gravity-defying architecture and spiritual history are unforgettable.
  

• Must-do: Explore the Sanctuary of Rocamadour, visit Château de Rocamadour, and take a boat ride through the Gouffre de Padirac caves.
  

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for a peaceful, mystical experience.

8. Camargue, Provence: France’s Wild West

A rugged, otherworldly region in southern France, the Camargue is famous for its wild white horses, pink flamingos, and sprawling salt flats.

• Why you’ll love it: It’s unlike anywhere else in France, with a raw, untouched beauty.
  

• Must-do: Visit the town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, go flamingo-spotting, and ride horses through the marshes.
  

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for active wildlife and comfortable weather.

9. Collonges-la-Rouge, Nouvelle-Aquitaine: The Red Village

With its deep red sandstone buildings, Collonges-la-Rouge looks like something straight out of a medieval fantasy novel.

• Why you’ll love it: It’s one of France’s most unique and colorful villages.
  

• Must-do: Admire the 11th-century Saint-Pierre church, browse charming artisan shops, and try the delicious local walnut pastries.
  

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.

10. Le Havre, Normandy: A Modernist Coastal Surprise

Often overshadowed by its picturesque neighbor Honfleur, Le Havre is a fascinating UNESCO-listed city that blends post-war modernist architecture with beautiful seaside views.

• Why you’ll love it: A mix of history, art, and coastal charm with way fewer tourists.
  

• Must-do: Visit the MuMa Museum for Impressionist art, admire the striking Saint-Joseph Church, and relax on the beach promenade.
  

• Best time to visit: Summer for seaside fun or autumn for an artsy city vibe.

Ready to Explore France’s Hidden Side?

France is packed with incredible places beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Whether you’re craving a medieval village, a coastal paradise, or a wild adventure, these underrated destinations have something magical to offer.

Which one would you love to visit first? Let me know in the comments!