When people dream of France, the mind typically jumps to Paris, Provence, or the French Riviera. But beyond the Eiffel Tower and luxury beaches lies a side of France few international travelers ever see—charming, postcard-perfect towns that are just as enchanting, but without the crowds. These lesser-known gems offer cobblestone streets, vineyard-draped hills, medieval architecture, and local markets untouched by mass tourism.
From hilltop villages in the south to storybook towns tucked away in Alsace, France is filled with quiet beauty waiting to be explored. These places are not designed for tourists—they’re designed for living. And that’s exactly why they’re worth discovering. You’ll find yourself wandering centuries-old lanes, dining at family-run bistros, and hearing only French spoken around you.
Whether you’re a traveler looking to slow down or a photographer chasing authentic charm, this list of 7 underrated French towns might just change how you see the country. Forget the clichés—this is the France locals love and travelers rarely find.
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Quick Easy Tips
Travel by train: Many of these towns are connected by regional rail or a short car ride from major cities.
Learn a few basic French phrases: In smaller towns, English is not guaranteed, but effort is warmly appreciated.
Visit during the shoulder season: Late spring and early fall offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Stay in a local guesthouse: You’ll get insider tips and a more immersive cultural experience.
Don’t over-schedule: These towns are made for slow, spontaneous exploration—let the day unfold.
France’s tourism industry heavily markets the same destinations—Paris, Nice, Bordeaux—creating a cycle of over-tourism that not only strains local infrastructure but distorts travelers’ perceptions of what France actually is. The lesser-known towns, full of history and tradition, get little attention because they don’t fit the glossy Instagram narrative.
Some locals in rural areas are wary of increased tourism, having seen how it transformed their neighbors’ towns into overpriced replicas of themselves. Yet they also recognize the economic benefits, especially when tourism is mindful, respectful, and sustainable. The challenge is finding a balance.
There’s also a quiet debate among French citizens themselves: Is France losing its cultural soul to accommodate global travelers? When visitors only see the Eiffel Tower or Mont-Saint-Michel, they miss the daily rhythm, the café culture, the regional identity that makes France more than a destination—it makes it an experience. Choosing to explore lesser-known towns is not just good travel; it’s a small act of cultural preservation.
Beautiful Towns in France
1. Eguisheim
Overview:
Location: Alsace, northeastern France
Highlights: Colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and surrounding vineyards.
Attractions:
Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets lined with vibrant, flower-adorned houses.
Château Saint-Léon: Visit the remains of a medieval castle in the heart of the town.
Wine Tasting: Eguisheim is known for its excellent Alsace wines, especially Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Activities:
Wine Route: Explore the Alsace Wine Route and visit local vineyards.
Cycling: Enjoy scenic bike rides through the surrounding vineyards and countryside.
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2. Rocamadour
Overview:
Location: Occitanie, southwestern France
Highlights: A dramatic cliffside village with medieval architecture and religious significance.
Attractions:
Sanctuary of Rocamadour: A complex of religious buildings, including the famous Black Madonna statue.
Château de Rocamadour: Walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the Alzou River valley.
Caves of Lacave: Explore the nearby caves featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Activities:
Pilgrimage: Rocamadour is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from around the world.
Hiking: Discover the beautiful trails in the surrounding Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy.
3. Yvoire
Overview:
Location: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, southeastern France, on the shores of Lake Geneva
Highlights: A medieval village with well-preserved architecture and beautiful gardens.
Attractions:
The Garden of Five Senses: A botanical garden designed to engage all five senses.
Château d’Yvoire: Although privately owned, the castle is a stunning feature of the town’s landscape.
Old Town: Stroll through the narrow streets lined with stone houses and flower-filled balconies.
Activities:
Boat Trips: Take a boat trip on Lake Geneva for breathtaking views of the Alps and the town.
Fishing: Enjoy the fresh catch from Lake Geneva, particularly perch and trout.
4. Collonges-la-Rouge
Overview:
Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, central France
Highlights: Known as the “red village” due to its distinctive red sandstone buildings.
Attractions:
Eglise Saint-Pierre: A Romanesque-Gothic church with an impressive bell tower.
Castles and Mansions: Explore the many medieval structures that dot the village.
Les Quatre Routes: A picturesque market square surrounded by historic buildings.
Activities:
Walking Tours: Guided tours are available to learn about the village’s history and architecture.
Local Markets: Visit the local markets to sample regional products like walnuts and foie gras.
5. Conques
Overview:
Location: Occitanie, southwestern France
Highlights: A beautifully preserved medieval village on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
Attractions:
Abbey Church of Sainte-Foy: Famous for its stunning Romanesque architecture and reliquary of Sainte-Foy.
Pont des Pèlerins: A historic bridge used by pilgrims.
Narrow Streets: Wander through the winding streets lined with half-timbered houses and artisan shops.
Activities:
Pilgrimage Route: Walk a section of the Camino de Santiago.
Museums: Visit the local museums to learn about the village’s history and religious significance.
6. Locronan
Overview:
Location: Brittany, northwestern France
Highlights: A picturesque town known for its granite architecture and historical charm.
Attractions:
Eglise Saint-Ronan: A Gothic-style church dedicated to Saint Ronan.
Place de l’Eglise: The town’s main square, surrounded by beautiful stone buildings.
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bonne-Nouvelle: A charming chapel with scenic views.
Activities:
Artisanal Shops: Explore the local shops selling Breton crafts and products.
Festivals: Attend traditional Breton festivals and events held throughout the year.
7. Pérouges
Overview:
Location: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, eastern France
Highlights: A walled medieval town with cobblestone streets and preserved architecture.
Attractions:
Place du Tilleul: The central square with a 200-year-old lime tree.
Eglise Sainte-Marie-Madeleine: A church that served both religious and defensive purposes.
Museum: Learn about the town’s history at the Maison du Prince.
Activities:
Dining: Try the local specialty, galette de Pérouges, a type of sugar pie.
Medieval Fair: Visit during the medieval fair to experience reenactments and traditional crafts.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to follow the crowds to experience the magic of France. In fact, steering off the well-trodden tourist trail often brings the most rewarding travel moments. These lesser-known towns invite you to explore France at a human pace—no lines, no rush, no pretense. Just beauty, culture, and quiet discovery.
The next time you’re planning a trip to France, dare to go where the influencers haven’t. Choosing a small town over a famous city could save you money, introduce you to deeper cultural traditions, and offer more genuine hospitality. France isn’t just Paris—and thank goodness for that.
By celebrating these overlooked places, you also help support local economies that rely on tourism done right. It’s a small choice that can make a big difference, both for your travel experience and the communities you visit.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.