France is a country that’s rich in culture and history. It’s one of the most visited countries in Europe, but you’ll also find plenty of quiet corners just waiting to be explored. I’ve spent more time exploring France over the years, and here are my top five best solo travel destinations in France:
Paris, France
The city of light has it all. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, and from Montmartre to Notre-Dame de Paris, there’s no shortage of impressive architecture and landmarks in this city. But there’s a lot more to Paris than just its famous monuments. You’ll want to spend some time exploring museums or wandering through streets lined with shops selling everything from cheese and wine to clothing, art, music and more. Besides enjoying all that Paris offers as a solo traveller, it also makes an excellent base for visiting other parts of France, like Normandy or Provence, where you can experience French culture at its best!
Province of Provence, France
- Province of Provence, France
One of the best things about this region is that it’s home to both beach destinations and mountain resorts. This means that you can enjoy the sun, sand and sea during the day, then head off for an outdoor adventure when dusk falls. You could even do both on the same day! If you have time, check out all four main towns in this province: Cannes, St Tropez, Nice and Monaco. All are beautiful places to visit with individual charms to suit every traveller’s taste.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer
If you want a seaside town in which to spend your holiday days, then Villefranche-sur-Mer may be just what you are looking for! This historic city has lots of different attractions, including museums such as The Museum of Modern Art (MAMAC) which houses many exciting pieces from artists around the world, such as Picasso or Warhol; there is also Le Château de la Crèche, which offers guided tours and stunning views over Port Hercules; don’t miss Le Petit Train de la Rhune either, where passengers travel up through pine forests before arriving at an altitude above 4 000 ft high overlooking C Pyrenees Alps mountain range – the perfect spot from which take pictures!
Hautes-Pyrénées, France
Hautes-Pyrénées, France
Home of the Pyrenees mountain range and many of its highest peaks, Hautes-Pyrénées is a one-of-a-kind destination for anyone who enjoys hiking or skiing. We also known the regio for its cheese, wine and truffles. Some of the best hikes in this area include the Cirque de Troumouse from La Mongie village; Montaigu de Quercy from Castelnau d’Estretefonds; and Lac de Gaube from Saint Girons. Hautes Pyrénées has several beautiful lakes to visit, such as Lac du Larrouy. If you want to take advantage of all the ski slopes that are available during the winter months, then Les Angles Vanoise will be your best option since it has both downhill skiing facilities and cross-country trails available year round!
Aquitaine, France
Aquitaine is a region in the southwest of France that’s known for its beaches, rivers, and mountains. It’s an ideal location for solo travellers to explore because it offers plenty of activities with breathtaking views.
- Walk or bike along the coast: Aquitaine has some of the most beautiful coastlines in all of France, so you can walk along the water or bike through it on a paved trail.
- Explore medieval towns: You can visit medieval towns such as St-Emilion and Bordeaux by yourself or with friends—and their ancient fortifications provide stunning views!
Côte d’Azur, France
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur as we know it in France, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It has long been associated with glamour and luxury, with many celebrities choosing to holiday there over other locations such as Monaco and Paris.
The area has a lot to offer any keen explorer, including some fantastic beaches and resorts along its coastline, but also some great cultural heritage sites such as Nice Cathedral and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. The gorgeous mountains that surround the coast give plenty of opportunities for hikers and cyclists alike who can enjoy their time exploring the landscape from a different perspective than just looking out across the sea from their hotel room balcony!
Also, There are plenty of museums around Cannes too which feature exhibitions varying from art galleries showing works by Picasso & Matisse through to musical performances at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès…the list goes on!
There are many beautiful places in France that make perfect solo travel destinations
- Chateau de Chenonceau is a medieval castle on the River Cher, with a stunning view of the Loire Valley below. It’s only a half hour train ride from Tours, so you can easily stop here for lunch as you travel along your way.
- We know the Palace of Versailles as one of the most opulent palaces in all of Europe and it’s definitely worth stopping by to check out if you’re ever in Paris. It was built under Louis XIV over 300 years ago and features amazing gardens with fountains and sculptures galore!
Conclusion
France is a beautiful country with so much to see and do. With so many great places to visit, you can’t go wrong! If you are looking for an adventure, France will provide it for sure. Click here to learn about my experience of visiting Pris, or, here, to find tips for travelling solo.