Just a short trip from here in the UK and you can find yourself in one of Europe’s most captivating countries. Whether catching a flight, taking the Eurostar train, or even driving via the Channel Tunnel, France has a bit of everything. From stunning countryside and mountains to explore, to many cities ideal for a weekend break full of rich history and well-known sights.
If you’re seeking a quick escape across the English Channel, there are plenty of French cities to consider, and as it can be difficult to decide where, below are 3 ideal city breaks we recommend looking into. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic allure of Paris or the sun-kissed streets of Nice, you’re sure to have the perfect getaway without far to travel.
Paris
We couldn’t start without the most popular location, as the French capital is one of the most visited cities in the world. Even if you have been before, there are still lots of things to see and do that it’s an easy choice to go back.
Paris is often hailed as the home of romance and culture, and with countless famous landmarks from the Eiffel Tower to the newly renovated and reopened Notre Dame Cathedral, there is much to see and do that gives a glimpse into France’s rich history. For art lovers, the Louvre has endless corridors of artistic treasures including the Mona Lisa, while the Musée d’Orsay has the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art inside a converted railway station setting.
The cobbled streets of Montmartre are one of the most famous, a village within the city that was the inspiration for many artists. Also, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat at one of Paris’ endless cafés whilst watching the world go by. You may also want to take a Seine river cruise, especially as the sun goes down and the city lights begin to shine. A visit to Paris, no matter how brief, is always high on many people’s travel lists.
Lyon
Lyon is often regarded as the gastronomic capital of France due to its sheer number of restaurants. This city, nestled where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, has an array of historical and architectural wonders, most notably the ancient Roman theatre which is the oldest in France. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has plenty of Renaissance buildings and historical significance from Saint John’s Cathedral to Place Bellecour, France’s third largest square.
A visit to Lyon would be incomplete without exploring its famous ‘traboules’, hidden passageways that weave through buildings, connecting streets and courtyards. There are around 500 of these throughout the many streets of Lyon, perfect for exploring and taking you back in time – also perfect for photo opportunities.
Other must visit places are the Musée des Confluences, a futuristic museum with stunning architecture where natural history and science meet, and the Opera House with its grand dome where you can find a show or two to enjoy during your stay.
Nice
Nice, nestled along the French Riviera, is famed for its perfect blend of sun, sea, and glamour, making it an ideal city break destination for those seeking both relaxation and lots to do. It’s hard to explore the city without walking along the Promenade des Anglais, the famous boulevard that curves along the coastline. You can even choose to cycle or roller skate along the 4 km stretch if you’re feeling active, with rental options available as well as scooters, a fun way to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views.
If you enjoy art, Nice has the Musée Matisse which has an extensive permanent collection of works by Henri Matisse. Another must-visit is the Musée National Marc Chagall, dedicated to the dreamlike works of this well-known artist. You can purchase a Pass Musées, which is well worth it if you plan to visit more than one museum, and there is also the French Riviera Pass which can help save money on day trips if visiting Monaco or the nearby village of Èze. The pass also includes various activities and admission to museums and monuments.
Back in Nice, end your day with a walk through the flower market in the Cours Saleya, where the colours and scents of fresh flowers mix with local flavours from the various bars and restaurants – the perfect way to spend each evening.
Travel Tips for Visiting France
France is great to visit at any time of year, but it can be best to visit during the Spring and Autumn. This is when crowds are smaller compared to the Summer, as well as the weather being more pleasant and not too hot or cold.
English is widely spoken in major cities, but learning a few basic French phrases is always recommended and can improve interactions with locals. Take a phrasebook with you to help or a city guidebook that will have a few basic phrases.
Transportation is very good within the cities, so using France’s extensive train network can be ideal if you’re planning to visit more than one city. Staying centrally can save time and allow for easy exploration, so research hotels in advance to book early the most convenient spots.
Be sure to seek out free admission days and discount passes within the cities. As per advice from Lonely Planet, most cities offer a single pass with either bundled or discounted admission for museums and other attractions. Always carry some cash, as smaller shops may not accept cards as widely. It’s also a good idea to check opening times as some places such as shops and restaurants can be closed from Sunday to Tuesday.
It’s a good idea to check the France foreign travel advice pages on the Gov.UK website too. You’ll need to ensure your passport is valid with at least 3 months left on it before your return trip, and be less than 10 years since first issued, so check well in advance of booking just in case you need to renew.
Importance of Travel Insurance
It’s best not to take any chances whilst away, even if it’s just for a short break. As the unexpected can happen at any moment, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind when exploring France. It isn’t compulsory, but it will ensure you are not left out of pocket having to pay for unexpected medical expenses or even lost or damaged items. You’ll also be covered for travel delays and disruptions with a good travel insurance policy, as well as if you have to cut your holiday short for emergency reasons.
Not all policies are the same, mind you, so it’s best to compare policies and find one that is both affordable for you and comprehensive. If you have a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), keep in mind that this will not cover everything. It covers treatment at state-run hospitals and GPs at a reduced cost or free, but as travel insurer Staysure points out, the GHIC does not cover you for rescue or repatriation costs if you needed it.
As you immerse yourself in French culture and explore its many cities, being prepared for the unexpected will ensure that you enjoy your escape worry-free, focusing on the experiences rather than the what-ifs.
Explore the Best of France’s Many Cities
A visit to France is always rewarding, and in a country so vast with many things to see and experience, a city break on its own will not always do it justice. Ideally, if you can, extend your holiday for a few days longer and explore a bit more – you know you want to!
You’ll find something for everyone in France, whether you like a bit of adventure or a slower-paced escape. If you don’t manage to see everything you wanted to this time, it’s the perfect excuse to book again and explore another region – the four cities above are just the start of many future adventures.
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