Curator’s statement
Embark on a journey beyond the streets of Paris and immerse yourself in the tapestry of France's lesser-known gems. While Paris dazzles with its romance and grandeur, the heart and soul of French culture truly reveal themselves in the hidden corners of its cities. From the gastronomic delights of Lyon to the maritime charm of Brest, each destination offers a unique blend of history, art, and tradition. Join us as we wander through the cobblestone streets of Nancy, savor the Mediterranean lifestyle in Narbonne, and embrace the cultural melting pot of Lille. These authentic French cities beckon travelers to explore, discover, and experience the essence of la belle France beyond its capital's borders.
The Fora Difference
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Where to stay in France
Cour Des Loges
A Radisson Collection Hotel: Step into Renaissance splendor in the heart of Lyon's Old Town, where this luxurious hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication, creating a timeless experience.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
La Pérouse
A Nice knockout for the show-stopping location carved into the cliffs overlooking the Baie des Anges.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
InterContinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hotel
Lush hotel with lavish interiors featuring Le Bordeaux restaurant, a bar, a rooftop and a gourmet restaurant inspired by Gordon Ramsay.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
La Cour des Consuls Hôtel & Spa Toulouse - MGallery
A luxurious boutique hotel in Toulouse offering refined accommodations and spa facilities in a historic setting.
Villa Lara Hotel
An elegant boutique hotel offering luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and views of the Bayeux Cathedral, perfect for exploring Normandy’s historic sites.
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Things to do in France
Lyon: Gastronomy and Tradition
Lyon, located in the Rhône-Alpes region, is renowned as the gastronomic capital of France. Its vibrant food markets, such as Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, showcase the best of French produce and cuisine, making it a paradise for food lovers. The city's rich history as a silk-weaving center also highlights France's tradition of craftsmanship. Wander through Lyon's Old Town, with its Renaissance buildings, and explore the Presqu'île with its classical architecture. Don't miss the annual Festival of Lights, which illuminates the city's deep cultural roots.
Brest: Maritime Heritage
Brest, situated in Brittany, embodies France’s deep connection to the sea. As a major naval port with a history that spans centuries, Brest represents the importance of maritime culture and trade in French life. Visit the National Maritime Museum and the Oceanopolis aquarium to dive into the city's maritime heritage. The annual maritime festivals are a vibrant celebration of this enduring connection.
Nancy: Art and Architecture
Nancy, in the Grand Est region, is a testament to France's dedication to art and architectural beauty. The city is famous for its stunning 18th-century squares, particularly the Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage site often regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Nancy is also a hub for the Art Nouveau movement, with many buildings and museums dedicated to this artistic style, reflecting the elegance and artistic heritage that are core to French culture.
Narbonne: Roman Heritage and Mediterranean Lifestyle
Narbonne, in the Occitanie region, offers a glimpse into the historical and leisurely aspects of French life. Once a major Roman port, Narbonne is rich with historical remnants like the Via Domitia and the Horreum. The city's Gothic cathedral and its sun-soaked Mediterranean ambiance embody the historical depth and the enjoyment of life that characterize French culture.
Lille: Cultural Melting Pot
Lille, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a vibrant city with a blend of French and Flemish influences, representing the diverse cultural fabric of France. The charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lille and its brick houses highlight the city’s unique architectural style. Lille is also a cultural hub, home to numerous museums like the Palais des Beaux Arts and lively markets and festivals that reflect the dynamic and inclusive spirit of French life.
Chinon: Historical Significance and Viticulture
Chinon, nestled in the Loire Valley, captures the essence of France’s historical and viticultural heritage. Its medieval fortress, the Château de Chinon, and the town's role in French history, particularly during the Hundred Years' War, highlight its historical significance. Renowned for its red wines made from the Cabernet Franc grape, Chinon also emphasizes the importance of viticulture in French culture.
Avignon: Historical Grandeur and Performing Arts
Avignon, located in Provence, is best known for the Palais des Papes, a fortress and palace that served as the papal residence in the 14th century. The city's well-preserved medieval bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, and its ramparts are major attractions. Avignon's annual Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's most important contemporary performing arts festivals, underscores France’s rich tradition in the performing arts and historical grandeur.
Strasbourg: European Identity and Architecture
Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, stands at the confluence of French and German culture, symbolizing the broader European identity. The city’s historic center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral and picturesque half-timbered houses. Strasbourg’s role as the seat of several European institutions, including the European Parliament, emphasizes France’s architectural heritage and its commitment to European unity.
Bordeaux: Wine and Elegance
Bordeaux, in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, is synonymous with French elegance and its world-renowned wine culture. The city's historic Port of the Moon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts beautiful neoclassical architecture such as the Place de la Bourse and the Grand Théâtre. Bordeaux's status as a major wine-producing region highlights the sophistication and importance of viticulture in French life.
Toulouse: Innovation and Heritage
Toulouse, known as "La Ville Rose" due to its pink terracotta buildings, blends historical heritage with modern innovation. The presence of the aerospace industry, including the headquarters of Airbus, makes it a significant tech hub. Historical sites like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe, illustrate the balance between tradition and progress that is a core aspect of French life.
Places to eat & drink in France
Lyon - Paul Bocuse: Indulge in culinary excellence at Paul Bocuse, a legendary restaurant in Lyon known for its innovative French cuisine and three Michelin stars.
Avignon - La Mirande: Experience the charm of Provencal cuisine at La Mirande, a historic restaurant in Avignon offering gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in a beautifully restored 14th-century mansion.
Bayeux - Le Pommier: Savor traditional Norman cuisine at Le Pommier, a cozy restaurant in Bayeux known for its hearty dishes, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service.
Bordeaux - Le Pressoir d'Argent: Dine in style at Le Pressoir d'Argent, located in the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux, where you can enjoy exquisite French cuisine crafted by Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay in an elegant setting overlooking the Place de la Comédie.
Toulouse - Les Jardins de l'Opéra: Treat yourself to the flavors of the southwest at Les Jardins de l'Opéra, a renowned restaurant in Toulouse offering a modern twist on traditional Occitan cuisine, all served in a charming garden setting near the opera house.
Need to know
"La Belle France" encapsulates the essence of French culture, evoking images of romance, elegance, and sophistication. Beyond its literal translation as "The Beautiful France," the phrase embodies the nation's rich history, artistic heritage, and appreciation for the finer things in life. From the picturesque landscapes of Provence to the bustling streets of Paris, France's beauty transcends mere aesthetics; it lies in its cultural diversity, culinary delights, and joie de vivre.
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Travel Advisor
Marc Scholnick
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to France. For more travel tips, check out my guide, Quirky Adventures On The French Riviera: Unusual Things To Do In Nice.