best northern france cities to visit

18 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Northern France

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: September 7, 2024

Northern France is a stunning region often overlooked as a destination in its own right. Travellers head for Central Paris, the Eastern Alsace wine route or the postcard-pretty Southern areas of the Dordogne, Provence and the French Riviera without realising that the North of France has many hidden depths to discover.

Rennes restaurants offer a cornucopia of regional and national dishes for food lovers. Bayeux is a great base to explore the region’s rich war history, and Le Touquet, with its promenade and never-ending sandy beach, rivals any in the South of France .

Add to that the string of picturesque towns and villages, from Honfleur’s colourful harbour to Metz’s medieval charms, and you won’t be able to stop yourself from falling in love with this beautiful northern region of France.

In this travel guide I have put together to the most beautiful towns and villages to inspire you to visit Northern France in the future.

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Table of Contents

When to go to Northern France

Spring or Autumn are good times to visit Northern France; there are fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures.

The roads in summer can be busy as tourists tend to use the region to travel through to other locations in France.

Winter can be cold and gloomy, and the weather can be unpredictable, so pack sweaters and rain macs.

How to get to France

From the united kingdom.

Eurostar  runs seven trains a day from London St Pancras to Lille. Routes also run from London St Pancras, Ashford International and Folkestone to Calais. Taking the car? Eurotunnel LeShuttle runs between Folkestone and Dieppe.

P&O Ferries runs daily services between Dover and Dunkirk, Calais and Bologne. DFDS Ferries runs from Newhaven to Dieppe, and Brittany Ferries runs a Portsmouth to Le Havre route and a Poole to Cherbourg route.

Within France

French national rail network (SNCF) connects Lille, Boulogne, Dunkirk and Calais with Paris Central. 

A car or motorhome is best for making the most of the northern region.

Visiting from Further Afield

Fly into Paris, pick up a rental car and be in Northern France in 2-3 hours.

The Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Normandy

According to the Plus Beaux Villages de France Association, Barfleur, Lyons-La-Foret, and Veules Les Roses are three of the six prettiest villages in Normandy. The prestigious title is awarded to highly picturesque villages in rural locations with a population under 20,000 and a rich culture.

The other three villages in Normandy that share this title are Beuvron-en-Auge, Le Bec-Hellouin and Saint-Céneri- le-Gérei.

Lyons-La-Foret

We’re always a little sceptical about beautiful towns or villages, but Lyons-la-Forêt, situated in the heart of Normandy’s largest forest, does live up to the hype. This charming village near Rouen is worth the effort to reach.

A former residence of the Dukes of Normandy, nowadays it’s more a tourist destination than anything else. Timber-clad buildings surround the square, and there are cafes, antique shops and fountains all over the place, with plenty of beautifully kept flowers, making it look like a set from a fairytale. 

We visited Lyons-La-Foret purely because people said it was pretty, but there are a couple of things to see in the village. The composer Maurice Ravel lived there, and his house (which is beautiful) is worth seeing. The picturesque Church of St Denis and convents, beside the Lieure river, is also worth visiting. 

Royal Connections

The village was built on a 12th-century castle site, so plenty of history connects it to the historical courts of Paris. The poet from Louis XIV’s court used to live here. 

We ate lunch at the Cafe de la Halle, right on the square and an excellent place for people-watching. If you’re  motorhoming in France , like we were, there’s a great campsite within easy walking distance, on the village’s outskirts.

Alternatively, there is a lovely looking hotel in the centre called La Licorne , which looks to have a pool or spa – well deserved on a hot day!

Veules Les Roses

The pretty town of Veules-Les-Roses in Northern France is undoubtedly worthy of a place in the “Plus Beaux” list of the most beautiful French villages.

From its timbered and thatched roof cottages to its rustic lodges, you will feel like you have stepped into a fairytale setting as you wander around the tiny lanes leading to the village centre.

We loved walking beside the River Veules, the smallest river in France, and seeing the watercress beds growing there.

In spring, the neighbourhood is awash with pretty flowers, and in summer, roses adorn the footpaths beside the river, highlighting where the village’s name originated.

After exploring the village, enjoy lunch at the Hotel Douce France – the pretty courtyard befits this fairytale village or perhaps stay the night.

Veules-Les-Roses can be visited on a road trip through Northern France and is a 2-hour drive if arriving from Paris.

Want to Find Out Where To Go in Eastern France? Please Read

The Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Eastern France

Bayeux is a charming town in the Normandy region of France. The town miraculously escaped bombing during WWII and is one of the few towns in Normandy that has remained the same throughout the years.

We found it the perfect place to base our stay on, where we could see the D-Day beaches and other WWII sites.

Bayeux is a prosperous and pretty small town with buildings in calming shades of faded greys and weathered mustards. A river runs sedately through the town, and the cobblestoned streets are quiet and serene.

Recommended Bayeux Tours

View the bayeux tapestry.

The town is most well-known for its impressive cathedral, the Cathedral Notre Dame de Bayeux, which dominates its centre. It is even more famous for its renowned Bayeux tapestry , which is a must-see while visiting Bayeux. Created to be displayed in the cathedral, the tapestry is now enshrined in its climate-controlled museum.

There are also some excellent restaurants in town! La Rapier is one of the top-rated restaurants in Bayeux. Our bed and breakfast hosts recommended that we make reservations here, and we were so glad we did. This ended up being one of our favourite meals in France.

We loved everything about our stay in Bayeux, from the friendly and kind local people to exploring the farmer’s market, wandering the well-lit streets in the evening, and sipping a cider on a restaurant patio at lunch. Bayeux is a perfect place to visit in Normandy. There are plenty of great places to stay, catering to all budgets. A particular favourite among guests is Hotel Reine Mathilde .

Etretat  is a beautiful town on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy.

It has beautiful architecture built in Anglo-Norman style, a pebble beach, a sea promenade, and a couple of interesting sites to keep you busy for a day or two.

Most of all, Etretat is world-known for its impressive chalky cliffs. This unique landscape was captured by many Impressionists’ paintings ‘en plein air’.

One such artist is Claude Monet, and it is possible to see the Etretat cliffs in 80 of Monet’s masterworks spread worldwide. 

For this reason, Etretat is a touristy place that sees crowds even in wintertime; however, the landscape is so unique that it is well worth visiting.

At One with Nature in Etretat

The list of interesting things to do in Etretat includes a stroll along the sea promenade to admire the cliffs, a lazy beach day, or a climb up to the little chapel Notre Dame de la Garde to admire the cliffs from another point of view.

However, my favourite place in Etretat is the Etretat Gardens , a mesmerising, neo-futuristic green space combining plants and plant sculptures with contemporary sculptures. 

In Etretat, don’t miss the opportunity to eat fresh fish or shellfish washed down with white wine or cider. It is an excellent place to eat Moules-Frites or Norman crêpes on an Etretat walking food tour.

The best way to travel to Etretat is by train to Le Havre and then by local bus. A direct local bus makes travel from Paris to Etretat possible in the summer. Dormy House is a good choice if you want somewhere to stay in Etretat.

Looking for More Beautiful Places to Visit in France? Please Read

16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the South of France

Giverny is a beautiful village, home to the sensational house and gardens of Claude Monet.

A trip to Normandy must include visiting the iconic artist’s famous Japanese water-lily gardens, the subject of some of his most well-known paintings.

Monet’s house is a riot of colour, from its pastel pink and green facade to the canary yellow dining room and sky-blue kitchen. But it is his two gardens that draw the crowds, and rightly so.

Monet’s first garden is Clos Normand, densely planted with flowers and plants from Europe and abroad.

This garden has no formality, and roses, honeysuckle and clematis climb the buildings and garden arches, ensuring a visit is quite magical.

The second garden is the Japanese water-lily garden – the inspiration for Monet’s classic paintings. Water lilies, a bamboo forest, weeping willows, and even a green bridge across the lake all contribute to Monet’s Japanese theme.

Visit both Monet’s house and gardens on a guided tour.

This destination is a great place to visit on a day trip from Paris to Giverny or as part of a road trip around the beautiful towns and villages of Northern France.

Contributed by Veronika from Jigsaw Puzzle Queen

Honfleur is a picturesque medieval port town in the North of Normandy, in the department of Calvados. It’s where the River Seine flows into the English Channel.

I only spent a day in Honfleur, as we visited it on a road trip through Brittany and Normandy. I would highly recommend anyone stop in this picturesque town, and should you want to stay overnight, a good choice would be Hotel Le Dauphin Les Loges .

Honfleur’s prominent landmarks are tall, narrow houses with slate-tiled roofs that line the harbour. They originate from the 17th-18th centuries – the time of the most significant development of the city.

It’s lovely to stroll along the quay, admire the buildings’ architecture, and see their reflection in the water or stop at one of the many delicious seafront restaurants.

I also found the unique wooden church from the end of the 15th century fascinating. It’s called Église Ste-Catherine, and you can walk inside to admire the structure.

Recommended Honfleur Tours

French impressionism in honfleur.

Honfleur became popular among 19th-century French artists, including the famous poet Charles Baudelaire, and it is believed that Honfleur is where French Impressionism began.

You can see some fantastic artwork by French impressionists at the local museum Musée Eugène Boudin. Book a tour of Honfleur with a local tour guide to explore its charms.

While in the north of France, you must try the local crêpe – the savoury version is made with buckwheat flour. One of the best crêpe bistros in Honfleur is Bistrot à crêpes , but you can pop into any Crêperie.

Since you’re right by the sea, you must have some oysters, too!

We found a cute oyster bar on top of a boat with only a few seats and the owner running around barefoot. Look for a boat with the sign “Bar à Huîtres”; the oysters are fresh daily and taste delicious.

Contributed by Catherine from Her Bags Were Packed

After a traumatic couple of months, I was planning a work trip to France and grieving my father’s death. I knew I’d need to centre myself and recover from jet lag before being “professional,” so I didn’t want a list of attractions to distract and exhaust me. Craving rest, I googled “small towns in France” and stumbled upon Vernon in Normandy.

Arriving in Vernon by train, my Airbnb host, Evelyn, greeted me. The French often get a bad rap for being rude and unfriendly, but Evelyn undid those stereotypes. My visit would not have been what it was without her incredible hospitality.

Vernon was the perfect destination for my “do-nothing” week because I could effortlessly take in the sights.

Two of the town’s most well-known landmarks, La Vieux-Moulin, a 16th-century mill, and Chateau des Tourelles, built in 1196 and one of the many fairytale castles in France , were a five-minute walk from Evelyn’s home.

I picked up my lunch at a delicious bakery, Boulangerie Bosquetup, across the street from both landmarks and then read my book steps away from both, soaking in the sun and watching the swans float along the river.

Cycling Around Vernon

Visitors arriving by train need not worry about renting a car – I didn’t. The town centre is small and walkable. To explore the 13-square-mile town and its surroundings further, rent a bike from Givernon Rental Station , across from the train station or join a bike tour from Vernon .

I rode to Monet’s Gardens along the River Seine, checked out Fleur de Seine Creperie, and explored Vernon’s picturesque architecture.

Whether you’re looking for an active few days or some serious R&R, Vernon is a beautiful and charming town in Northern France that you need to visit.

Want To Find Out About France’s Best Seaside Resorts?

Read my post: 9 most beautiful coastal destinations in france, mont st michel.

No trip to France would be complete without visiting the iconic French landmark, Mont St Michel, on the Normandy/Brittany borders.

The fairytale medieval abbey sits on a tidal island and is immortalised in paintings and photographs. It is home to approximately 40 inhabitants, mainly nuns and monks, and was one of Europe’s major pilgrimage sites for centuries. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Recommended Mont-Saint-Michel Tours

If the tide is out, reaching the abbey across the seabed is possible. Make sure that you check daily tides before setting off, as you might find you can get there but are cut off for your return visit! It looks almost identical to St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall , so British visitors may feel they have seen it before!

We travelled to Mont Saint-Michel from Paris by train from Paris in 1 hour 30 minutes. The train stops in Rennes , and you can take a direct shuttle coach bus to Mont Saint Michel. If you are holidaying on the Brittany coast, it will take one hour by road from Saint-Malo.

I chose to visit  Barfleur  because it shares its name with the ferry I arrived on in France. Living next to the harbour in the UK, the Barfleur ferry is part of the local life. So, when I boarded it to visit Cherbourg, I decided to pop to Barfleur, a beautiful small village an hour away. 

Taking a direct bus to Barfleur from Cherbourg is easy. However, it doesn’t run very often, so pay attention to the schedule.

Barfleur is known locally for the mussels harvested here, called “Blonde de Barfleur”. There are a few restaurants in the village, and all have mussels on their seasonal menus.

If you want to eat in Barfleur, I recommend Café de France overlooking the harbour; this is where I had a delicious breakfast. Also, for yummy cakes, go to Fontaine Sylvain Patisserie, which is very close to the bus station. 

Walk to Gatteville Lighthouse

Barfleur is a lovely, quiet village with charming stone houses decorated with lavender pots at the windows.

I loved discovering the path starting behind the church and leading to the Gatteville lighthouse – the third tallest lighthouse in the world. Along the way, I stumbled upon stunning secluded beaches and a cute windmill transformed into a home. 

As Barfleur is not a touristic destination, you can still see the local fishermen working on their boats. I arrived early in the village and observed them preparing their boats after returning from the sea with their daily catch. 

A large medallion fixed to a rock in the harbour marks William the Conqueror’s departure from Barfleur to England in 1066 for the Battle of Hastings.

Why Not Also Check Out 11 Most Beautiful Towns in Eastern France

The most beautiful towns and villages in brittany.

I was dubious when my husband first suggested Carnac in Brittany as our main summer holiday destination. Brittany? But isn’t it cold and miserable there? I’m pleased to say I couldn’t be more wrong. Staying at the beginning of September, we arrived at our campsite in blistering heat and bright sunshine. 

But it wasn’t just the weather that surprised us in this idyllic place. The campsite we stayed at, Camping Des Menhirs , was within easy walking distance of the fantastic sandy beach and the bustling town centre.

Like most seaside towns, Carnac is full of seafood restaurants, ice cream parlours, and striped T-shirt shops. Yet something about it seemed way more upmarket than the many other French seaside towns we’ve visited. Perhaps it was the clean streets or the well-cared-for shopfronts?

We tried around seven restaurants in the town during our ten-day holiday, and whilst they were all good, our favourite was Le Cavok . The food was delicious; they even gave us little blankets to put over ourselves when it got chilly in the evening.

Carnac’s Famous Stones

In addition to the stunning beach and charming town, Carnac is steeped in history. Perhaps the most famous thing about Carnac is its Neolithic standing stones, also known as Menhirs. The stones, erected between around 4500 BC and 2000 BC, bring tourists from around the globe.

Of course, we had to go and see them. We decided the best way to view them would be via the little Carnac tourist train. You can also see Menhirs on a guided segway tour.

I love tourist trains because they take you to where you want to go and give you a running commentary, too, so it’s a fantastic way to learn Carnac’s history. 

Overall, our stay in Carnac was incredible, and I believe it is one of the most charming towns in northern France. We loved it so much that we’ve decided to make it an annual holiday destination.

Locronan is one of the most beautiful towns in Northern France and appears frozen in time. You can find it in Brittany, in the département of Finistère, Châteaulin arrondissement.

No visible new construction has occurred at the centre of Locronan’s development since the 16th to 18th centuries. The Locronan authorities have tried to preserve that status, even hiding underground city cables! It’s no wonder that Locronan has become a popular site for filmmakers.

Locronan is also titled “the flower town” because flowers are everywhere – on window sills and in pots scattered all around.

Historical Sights in Locronan

The majestic structure of the Church of Saint Ronan, built in the 15th century, dominates Locronan’s main square. Its distinct decorative elements are a prime example of the so-called Flamboyant Gothic style.

As is the case with most significant churches in the region, a notable calvary depicting Christ’s crucifixion is present on the church grounds and a cemetery.

Locronan is popular among both foreign travellers and locals. It’s noticeable by the number of shops selling traditional Breton biscuits and souvenirs. Many a tourist’s sweet tooth can be satisfied in one of the numerous chocolate shops or crêperies. 

After hiking on Brittany’s coast , we visited Locronan on a road trip through Brittany and Normandy.

It was lovely to grab a cup of coffee in a typical local bar called “Ostaliri Ti Jos” and watch the buzz of the day. 

Latitude Ouest Hotel and Restaurant is a good choice if you are looking for overnight accommodation.

Rennes was a must-see town for me to visit. Known as a city of heritage and art, its historic centre has preserved its classical and medieval heritage with over 90 protected buildings. I wanted to wander the ancient streets and see all those glorious coloured half-timbered houses for myself.

Rennes’ medieval centre around the Place Ste-Anne has around 286 incredible coloured half-timbered buildings. In 1720, a fire burnt down most of the city, but this area of cobbled streets and crooked houses was virtually untouched. 

You can visit the incredible Couvent des Jacobins (a former Dominican friary) or hang out in the square and people-watch.

A must-do is a visit to the Place des Lices, where knights used to joust and which is now the location of one of France’s largest markets. Nearby, you will find the remains of the Porte Mordelaise, the 15th-century gate into the central city.

Recommended Rennes Tours

A creative and culinary hotspot.

Rennes is famous for being one of  France’s most lively cities . Every month, there is a festival celebrating something. Due to its large student population, Rennes has music and art events ranging from electronic music and Jazz to contemporary art and design. 

Rennes is where you come to if you are a food lover. With its international reputation for a fantastic food scene, some must-eats include the Breton Galette, a savoury buckwheat pancake often stuffed with tartiflette, a type of scalloped potato, crêpes, the sweet version of the galette and, of course, washed down with the famous Breton Cidre.

Many restaurants around Place Ste-Anne Square specialise in Breton dishes, and at the Creperie Sainte Anne , I enjoyed a galette stuffed with tartiflette – heaven on a plate.

Saint-Pabu is a beautiful little coastal town located about 30 minutes from Brest. With only 2000 inhabitants, it is not busy and is the perfect spot to escape the tourist crowds.

Most people come to Saint-Pabu for kite surfing or a camping vacation. La Clé des Champs is an insider tip for those looking for high-quality accommodation at affordable prices.

What makes Saint-Pabu so unique is its incredible beach. The water here looks more like that in the Maldives or a Caribbean island , and if you’re not yet convinced if Northern France should be your next destination for a beach vacation, then this seascape will persuade you to go.

You’ll love the white-sand beach and the shallow waters, perfect for families or couples. Saint Pabu is not the place for nightlife, so you’ll love it here if you appreciate quiet and an experience close to nature.

Beach Activities in Saint-Pabu

Explore the dunes, go kayaking or paddleboarding and enjoy the incredible French coastline. Saint-Pabu is small and hasn’t been overrun by tourists yet, so life here is still very similar to what it was fifty years ago.

The town used to be a fishing village and has transformed into a beautiful place to relax and unwind.

For a truly authentic French experience, stop by the Ruzven restaurant and pub. Located right by the main beach with fantastic views, this little rustic restaurant is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some of the  best snacks and foods from Brittany .

Don’t forget that if you are a UK resident and holidaying in France, you can now shop Tax-Free !

The most beautiful towns and villages in hautes de france.

Chantilly is a good option if you want to visit a picturesque town in northern France. It is located 45 km north of Paris, in the Hauts de France region.

Because of its excellent train connections with the French capital and its various tourist attractions, Chantilly is considered one of the easiest and  best day trips from Paris .

Chantilly is home to the Château de Chantilly , a fairytale castle with magnificent rooms and halls to explore. I especially like the château’s artwork collection (the second most important in France, only after the Louvre Museum) and the beautiful library and lecture room.

The château is surrounded by magnificent French-style gardens designed by André Le Notre. When I visit Chantilly, I always like to picnic in the gardens. However, the restaurant inside the castle always has good ratings for a more relaxed lunch. 

Chantilly Horse Riding

The Great Stables are also fascinating to visit. Louis-Henri de Bourbon commissioned this spectacular building for his 200 horses and 500 hounds, and it is as magnificent and impressive as the château.

Today, the Great Stables hosts one of the world’s most prestigious horse training centres and the Chantilly Horse Museum, with a daily horse performance (in the morning) under the building’s central dome. 

Chantilly is world-known for its Chantilly Racecourse, founded in 1834, which hosts two of the most prestigious France Galop races today: the Prix du Jockey-Club and the Prix de Diane Longines.

I have never seen any of these races during my visits to Chantilly, but the racecourse is spectacular even when empty.

Hardelot is an idyllic northern French town – full of charm and with the most beautiful beach.

Situated just 8 miles south of Boulogne, it is a peaceful getaway with everything you need for a great stay here. We visited with kids, and it is the perfect destination for  family holidays in northern France . 

We decided on Hardelot as our base for exploring the Opal Coast, with its vast sandy beach and quaint little town.

Staying at the Hotel du Parc , packed with leisure facilities, was a great retreat after long sightseeing days.

The town has some great history – an Englishman, John Robinson Whitley, bought a castle and some land here and wanted to develop the area as a leisure resort. King George V even visited. Extensively bombed during the Second World War after the Nazis took over the town, today it has been rebuilt and has a natural seaside feel.

We loved the ice-cream-coloured beach huts that line the promenade, and it felt much less crowded than many usual French seaside resorts. It is the spot to try out outdoor pursuits; windsurfing is particularly prominent here, along with golf and tennis.

There are plenty of patisseries and little restaurants in the town. The real reason to come here is the outstanding beach, which feels like a breath of fresh air. We loved our time here and can’t wait to return.

Le Touquet is a seaside resort in northern France that I have visited with friends and family on many occasions.

It is just south of Boulogne and referred to as “Jardin de la Manche”, the Garden of the English Channel .  The white sandy beach is enormous and continues further than the eye can see, meaning you always have plenty of space to yourself.

Grassy dunes with walking routes line the beach should you fancy stretching your legs to explore the shoreline.

But Le Touquet is so much more than just a French beach destination . Its town has restaurants and bars galore, serving regional and international dishes. Cute bars serve cold beers and are a great spot to people-watch.

Rue Saint-Jean is the central place to find shops, including fashion boutiques, trendy artisan stores, tempting bakeries, and mouth-watering chocolatiers, not forgetting Kokoa – Le Touquet’s best artisan ice-cream store. Be aware that parking in town is terrible, so you may need to find a space on the outskirts and walk into town.

While much of Le Touquet was rebuilt in the ’60s, several unique preserved villas from the 1920s show that it was the place to be seen by the Paris jet set.

Outdoor Activities in Le Touquet

Le Touquet’s golf course and its luxurious Le Manoir Hotel will impress golfers, while wind-surfers and kite-surfers will enjoy taking to the waters.

Horse riders will find several riding schools in the area, and children and adults alike will love Le Petit Train, which takes you around town. Further out of town, Le Touquet has a beautiful pine forest with an expanse of walking and cycling lanes.

A nice place to stay in Le Touquet is Hotel Gaspard , a 2-star hotel with 4-star reviews opposite the beach.

Saint Valery-sur-Somme

Saint Valery-sur-Somme is an utterly charming medieval town in  northern France . It is on the coast, near the mouth of the River Somme, and is just 75 minutes by car from Calais.

The town has a pretty outlook over the Baie de la Somme , with colourful fishing and sailing boats moored in the harbour. We spent a day exploring the town’s medieval alleyways, ramparts, riverside walks and colourful boutiques and restaurants.  

William the Conqueror assembled his fleet at Saint Valery-sur-Somme before sailing to England’s south coast and defeating King Harold at the historic battle in 1066. Saint Valery-sur-Somme is twinned with Battle in East Sussex, the site of the Battle of Hastings. As we live nearby, we were keen to see the twinned town. 

Saint Valery-sur-Somme has a rich history. Joan of Arc was imprisoned here the night before being taken to Rouen and burned at the stake. The ruins of her cell, the ancient town walls, ramparts, and towers can still be seen.

Explore the Old Sailor’s Quarter

My favourite thing was to wander through the old sailors’ quarter, the ‘Courtgain’ (which means small salary). The cobbled alleyways lined with fishermen’s cottages adorned with colourful flowers and half-timbered buildings are incredibly quaint.  

I’d also recommend a stroll along the harbourside, lined with brasseries, cafes and bars. Check out the impressive villas – Victor Hugo, Jules Verne and Dégas once lived in the town.  

The food market is on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where you’ll pick up some excellent local produce. Try a local favourite like Ficelle Picarde, a delicious crêpe dish made with ham, mushrooms and cream. Seafood is abundant with mussels grown on wooden poles in the sea.

You’ll find freshly caught fish on the menu at family-run restaurant Le Mathurin, where the day’s catch dictates the dish du jour.  

The Most Beautiful Town in Lorraine

Metz is tucked away in northeastern France’s Lorraine region. It is a delightful town sometimes known as “the Bride of France.” We visited Metz as part of a road trip from Paris through the Loire Valley to Strasbourg , and Metz was a definite highlight of the trip.

Perhaps best known for its Gothic cathedral, Metz is full of historical places to explore. From the Gare de Metz-Ville, built for transporting Kaiser Wilhelm II’s soldiers during World War I, to the historic Place Saint-Louis, which features architecture dating back to the 14th century.

The Porte des Allemands towers date back to medieval times and is open to the public, and the Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains , the oldest church in France (dating back to 390 CE!)

Beautiful Views from Temple Neuf

You can’t miss strolling along the river, admiring the charming architecture along its banks, and visiting the Esplanade Park. Don’t miss the view of the picturesque Temple Neuf on the small Île du Petit-Saulcy in the middle of the river.

Metz is an eminently walkable city with green spaces, walking paths, and narrow cobblestone streets galore. If you prefer to bike, Metz has reinvented itself recently as a major biking hub , which we enjoyed while there.

If you want to spend more than one day in Metz, La Citadelle Metz MGallery is an up-market hotel in the heart of the city.

Be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Covered Market between Tuesday and Saturday. You will find a splendid variety of stalls selling bread, cheese, charcuterie, and other local delicacies. Check out the small cafes and eateries serving Lorraine’s regional specialities and international options like pizza or sandwiches. Metz is also a great place to try Quiche Lorraine, the region’s best-known dish. 

Want to continue this road trip from Metz? Check Out the 11 Most Beautiful Towns in Eastern France to Visit on a Road Trip

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

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Angela Price is an accomplished travel writer bringing extensive expertise and passion to the world of travel. With over 35 years of globetrotting adventures under her belt and with a keen eye for unique experiences, she has established herself as an authoritative voice in travel, offering invaluable insights for fellow adventurers seeking to uncover the delights of worldwide destinations. Her motto is “live life wandering not wondering”

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Faith Coates

Tuesday 23rd of February 2021

Love this and since I am currently in N. France under curfew (sigh) I am hanging onto this post so I can visit all these lovely places. I had no idea there were so many, but I should have known as every time I do manage to get out the beauty of N. France is just jaw dropping. I think I'm going to have a very busy spring and summer.

WhereAngieWanders

I am glad you found the post useful. There are certainly a few more places I need to check out in the future. The beach at St Pabu for one!

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12 Best Places To Visit In Northern France

January 8, 2023 //  by  followmeaway2 //   2 Comments

Looking for places to visit in northern France? I’ve got you. I adore France and have visited many times, so let me share with you some of my favorite hidden gems in north France.   

If this is your first visit then I would recommend Chantilly, Honfleur, and Mont St. Micheal. If you have already been to the area then perhaps the lesser-known places like Etretat, Quimper, and Belle Island will be great for you. 

Northern France is a stunning vacation spot with so many picturesque towns and locations. In this article I will share what I feel are the must-see places in northern France to make the planning a little easier for you. 

So grab a coffee and let me walk you through some of the most beautiful parts of France. From castles to manors, royal coronations to spectacular gardens I’m telling you this part of the country may surprise you. 

Chantilly is only 50km or about 31 miles from Paris, it’s practically in the city’s backyard! It also tops our list of the Best Day Trips From Paris . 

There are many reasons to visit Chantilly, from the lightly tanned historic houses to the countryside which is perfect for walking but I like others am drawn here because of its famous Chateau. 

Now you all know I love a good castle and Château de Chantilly is breathtaking. The grounds, lake, and stables make this place even more special. 

What I love most about this place though is the art. 

Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, fifth son of the last King of France, Louis-Philippe inherited the property at 8 years old. During his lifetime he grew one of the biggest art collections in the world, considered second only to the Louvre, Chntilly is the showcase for this art. 

And if you are feeling energetic there are some amazing walks in this area around the stunning countryside. 

If you are wondering where to visit in northern France I would start here as there is so much to see and It’s only a short distance from the city. 

If you are going to Paris here is the best time to visit.

Honfleur was one of those places that surprised me. I visited with a group when we took a River Cruise in France and this place blew me away. 

First off the town is just so colorful and vibrant with some incredible architecture. It is also one of those places where you feel incredibly welcome and comfortable, a feeling I don’t get often.

When you visit you will see why the French impressionist painters including Monet were so inspired by this place. Everywhere you go there is a vista worth painting. 

While you are here I highly recommend a visit to St. Catherine’s Church.  Built-in the 15th century by sailors, this church is the largest wooden church in all of France.

Honfleur is one of the most visited northern France attractions and in my opinion, should be top of your list. It is one of the most picturesque cities to visit in the north of France.

If you are looking for somewhere to visit on France’s north coast then may I suggest Etretat? You know how I love a dramatic view and this place has them in bucket loads. 

Where Etretat joins the sea is a rather stunning affair with phenomenal white cliffs dropping dramatically to the beach below. Make sure to add it to your France itinerary.

The two rock formations that I think you must see, are the Porte d’Aval arch and L’Aiguille (the Needle).  The Needle seems to come out of nowhere in the sea in an otherworldly fashion.  

The town surrounding these cliffs is also very charming and make sure you visit the Les Jardins D’Etretat. This experimental garden is more like an open-air museum of contemporary art and is so different from any other garden you have seen. 

The  Chapelle Notre Dame de la Garde is also somewhere I would recommend. It’s a beautiful church built in 1603 and set in a breathtaking area. The opening times here are brief so check before you go. 

A visit here is one of the best things to do in northern France. 

Mont St. Micheal

There are very few places like Mont St Micheal it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. 

You will have probably heard of this place or seen pictures of it and you would be forgiven for thinking it seems to belong more in an episode of Game of Thrones than off the northern coast of France.

Mont St. Micheal is an island about 1 km off the coast of northern France containing a fortress and a small town. It has about 50 inhabitants and 3 million visitors a year. 

This place has held fortifications since the 8th century and once served as a prison. Now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The island is only accessible during certain times of the day so make sure you know this before you go. When the tide rises the bridge goes under water and the island can only be reached by boat. 

Oh and wear appropriate footwear there are lots of steps. 

Nord-Pas de Calais

I find this region interesting. Once the center for coal production, it is now a cultural and historic hub with so much to see. 

If you love the great outdoors then this is one of the must-see places in northern France for you. There are over 2175 miles of paths, trails, and hiking opportunities so bring your hiking boots and go exploring. 

Places to see in this region include the dramatic cliffs of Artois and Flanders, Grande Site des Deux Caps a protected isolated natural habitat, and the historic town of Nord. 

This area is also known for its pristine beaches and seaside resorts. Many believe it’s one of the friendliest places in France which I have to say I concur with. 

If you can I also recommend exploring some of the regional parks here  Avesnois Natural Park or Scarpe-Escaut Natural Regional Park are my absolute favourites. 

This is one of the best regions on the northern coast of France.

This small town in northern France is amazing because despite being involved in many, many wars, it has remained mostly unscathed. It’s a sleepy, small, and quiet city perfect for those who like to take it a little easier.

Places to visit here are the Notre Dame de Grace, which was originally built in 1064 and then remodeled in 1703. It’s absolutely beautiful. 

If you can come in August as this town comes to life then. A huge communal festival celebrates local culture, life, the history. Also, two music festivals happen during the summer months, Juventus which is a classical music festival, and BetiZFest which is an alternative music festival.

This is one of the north of France cities you won’t want to miss.

 The town is most famous for being the town where the first large-scale use of tanks in warfare was used. It’s now a testament to history and the fortitude of the community.

I adore Quimper it has all those fairytale vibes but is lesser known and therefore less busy. It’s cute, idyllic even, and just so very French. 

The 17th-century townhouses are just adorable and here I’m just going to tell you to explore and wander the streets. There is something to see around every corner, a perfect picture awaits you wherever you look. 

The Corentin Cathedral a medical church is a must-see here and if you have time do a walk around the local craft stalls I always find something interesting here. 

If the weather is on your side I would recommend getting a picnic and heading to the river, the views and sunsets are stunning. 

This is one of the best towns in northern France. 

La Roche-Guyon

I do love an interesting town and La Roche-Guyon is just that. The town seems to be carved into the mountain side and the castle aloft the town is a feat of human engineering. 

Things to see here include the Castle of La Roche-Guyon which is a medieval castle and an 18th-century manor house that the town seems to grow around. Here you can see medieval, renaissance, and classical styles all mixed. There are even underground tunnels to explore. 

The old village streets that line the area around the castle are also very picture-worthy. And I advise a walk along the Seine while you are here it’s so peaceful. 

You might want to also take a trip to Giverny which is where Monet’s house is located. It is only a few minutes away and well worth a visit to walk among the area which is now so gamut in his paintings. 

This is one of the best cities in northern France.

This incredible waterfront city in northern France probably has the best shopping you will find in the region. If you love shopping then this is the place in northern France for you.  

Here you can find shops and markets all around the city, with some amazing handcrafted items or clothes you cannot find anywhere else. On Saturdays, they even have a floating market garden which you access by boat and is a real experience. 

I’m not a shopper but I loved the Saint-Ley District. It’s full of shops and cafes and has a vibrant atmosphere. I also found the riverside terraces perfect for people and sunset watching. 

But the one place you absolutely must visit here is the Cathedrale Notre Dame d’Amiens. This staggering Gothic cathedral is known for its opulent decorations and carvings the like of which you are likely to see anywhere else. I can’t describe how beautiful and fascinating this place is. 

Lyons-la-Forêt

And we are back to another just stepped out of a fertile village because I honestly can’t resist them. It’s all timber-framed houses and flowers and has that classic French countryside vibe. 

Abbaye de Mortimer is the main attraction here. Built in 1134 is said to be the most haunted Abbey in northern France, of not all of France. 

A former Cistercian Monastery and consists of some intact parts and some ruins. I found it incredibly interesting and atmospheric. 

Also noteworthy is the outdoor markets on Thursday. The town takes on a different feel when the market day comes around and I loved immersing myself in French culture. 

Apart from being a small and fashionable resort in northern France Carnac has something that if you know me or follow me on socials will know I can’t resist. That is stones. 

Now I don’t just mean any old stones I’m talking about stones placed in positions by ancient people, and they don’t get much more ancient than these. At 6000 years old they predate Stonehenge in the UK by about 1000 years. 

The site is one of the most impressive standing stone sights in the world. We are not just talking about a few there are over 3000 on the site.  I was honestly spoilt for choice when I came here. 

The town is also well worth a visit and the beaches around here are some of the best in France. So if you can drag yourself away from the stones ( I couldn’t) there is lots more to see. 

Belle Island

I always love an island and an Island with the name Belle just feels like a no-brainer to me. Most say this is an island with two sides, one peaceful beach and countryside and the other jagged cliffs and a raging sea. I of course preferred the latter.

You will need to get a ferry to the island but it’s so worth it. Ferries leave from Quiberon, Port Navalo, or Vannes and take anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours depending on where you leave from. 

Once you are there there is so much to do from the beaches, 58 in total, pretty towns, and a rugged coastline. The port of Sauzon, Port Coton. the Vauban Citadel and Cote Sauvageare are my tips. 

Hiking is very popular here and it will take you four days to hike around the island if that’s your preferred option. Car and bike hire are available as are buses. 

This island certainly lives up to its name and if you are looking for something a  little different then I highly recommend a visit here.

As you can see when it comes to northern France there is so much to see and do. From beautiful nature to cute villages, this area has so much to offer.

I hope this article has helped you narrow down your options and I look forward to hearing all about your travels. 

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Reader Interactions

February 21, 2019 at 4:49 am

One word. WOW! I love your photos. They make me want to book a ticket, say goodbye to everybody and visit each of the places on your list. Thanks for this! I’m putting all of them on my bucket list.

August 22, 2019 at 5:42 pm

Glad to see lovely Amiens get a mention, I think it is one of the most underrated cities in Northern France. You alluded to “Science Fiction” but your review didn’t follow up on that by talking about the Jules Verne historic house museum. Also the Musee de Picardie, which is the largest regional museum in France.

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The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Northern France Itinerary

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Over 5 days to a week in northern France, you can see many beautiful seaside towns, wander around historic villages and indulge in some excellent French food and drink.

Our itinerary for northern France will take you from Saint-Malo on the border of Brittany and Normandy, up the coast to the Belgian border city of Lille. Whatever your interests, there’s something for everyone on the north coast of France.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern France?

The North of France encompasses everything from Brittany to Alsace, including Normandy and of course, Paris – each of which has its own distinct culture and traditions. So, to see all of these amazing places in one northern France road trip, you’d need to spare at least a month.

That’s why we’ve focused primarily on the northern coast of Normandy, as you can happily spend at least 4 to 5 days in Brittany alone, and a further 4 to 5 days discovering the magical city of Paris . Or, if you want to experience beautiful castles and world-class wine, consider heading to the Loire Valley for a few days .

But if you want to spend just 5 days in the region, sunbathing on the beaches, exploring the seaside towns and eating wonderful seafood, it’s best to stick to the Normandy coast and travel around at your leisure by car.

Normandy also has wonderful cycling routes, without too many inclines for a more easy-going journey, so you can have a fantastic 7 days in northern France on your bike, without spending too much time on the road. This way you also get to discover the quaint villages and rural locations that won’t come up on a standard itinerary.

Getting To & Around Northern France

There aren’t many major airports in northern France, especially near the towns on our north France itinerary, however, if you’re planning to reach France by aeroplane, you can fly into Rennes Airport, Paris-Orly or Paris Charles de Gaulle Airports and rent a car, or take a train to the first stop on our itinerary.

But, this will take the best part of a day to fly into Paris and make the journey out to Saint-Malo, so bear this in mind when planning your trip.

The best way to reach the starting point of your road trip in northern France, if you’re following our road trip itinerary and beginning in Saint-Malo, is by ferry from Portsmouth or Poole on the south coast of England, which takes about 7 hours; that way, you can also bring your own car to make your journey easier and cheaper.

If you’re following the itinerary in reverse, you can take your car on the ferry or Eurotunnel from Dover to Calais , or take the passenger train the Eurostar from central London to Lille.

If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across major companies.

Each stop on the itinerary is reachable by public transport so you can take the train or bus to arrive at each destination as well as book your tickets as a foot passenger on the ferries, or utilise the fast and eco-friendly Eurostar trains. You can view schedules here.

However, if you choose to use public transport, you will have to arrange your holiday according to transport times, rather than having the freedom of moving as you please with your own car.

5 to 7-Day Northern France Itinerary

Beaches, castles, cathedrals and history abound on this route, so don’t forget to pack your beach towels, sunglasses and guidebooks so you’re ready for everything that awaits you.

Day 1 – Saint-Malo

Ferry is the best way to arrive in Saint-Malo, not just for comfort and ease, but also to see the wonderful seaside town from a different perspective, arriving majestically on the French shore to explore your first destination.

Saint-Malo is predominantly famous for its large and scenic port area where you can find some delicious seafood as well as wander around the small side streets and coastal promenade. But Saint-Malo is also full of ancient history, with the 15th-century Saint-Malo castle and the National Fort standing proudly on the coastline, surrounded by the town’s ramparts.

You can spend a day walking along the 2 km-long city walls, enjoying views over the town, as well as the incredible coastline, filled with small islets.

You can walk to some of the islets at low tide to spend some time on the beautiful beaches, reach the National Fort and look back over the town.

There are several hotels in Saint-Malo, most of which are moderately priced, but you can also travel further inland to find holiday lets and gîtes if you’re travelling with several family members.

Where to Stay in Saint-Malo

Hôtel Bristol Union Intra Muros – This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay in Saint-Malo. They have a number of chic rooms to choose from and a superb breakfast to enjoy each morning.

La Maison des Armateurs – This grand hotel is an excellent choice for visitors looking for a bit of luxury on their northern French adventure. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer, they’re pet-friendly and also offer wine and champagne to guests.

Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde – This 4-star beachfront hotel is another wonderful place to stay while in Saint-Malo. They have a great location and beautiful rooms along with amenities like a spa, indoor swimming pool and a great breakfast in the mornings.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Saint-Malo hotels!

Day 2 – Mont-Saint-Michel

When most people think of north France, the first image that comes to mind is the small rocky island, with mediaeval houses and winding streets below a magnificent abbey with pointed turrets reaching up into the sky.

This quintessential French town is the island of Mont-Saint-Michel, about 1 km from the French coast – although thanks to the massive number of visitors the town receives every year, you can now reach the island by road.

Having become a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the first French site to be listed, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most popular spots in North France and is a must-see destination on any northern France road trip.

You can wander around the winding cobbled streets either independently on or on a walking tour , enjoying the remnants of the mediaeval architecture, as well as walk around the 13th-century ramparts to enjoy views over the French coastline and reach the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Michael that defines the island. You can buy your tickets in advance

The Saint Michael’s Abbey is a wonder of mediaeval and flamboyant Gothic architecture, built after Saint Michael appeared three times before Bishop Saint Aubert in 708, and welcomes visitors to discover its refectory, beautiful cloister, ornate chapels and crypts over several levels across the place of worship.

You can learn about the abbey’s transformation into a prison for almost 100 years, as well as the artistic history of the breathtaking island from its four museums in the town’s lower streets.

It’s definitely worth spending a full day in Mont-Saint-Michel as the changing light throughout the day will make you crave a photograph from every angle. At night, the island is lit up, looking even more picturesque as the shadows dance on the layered roofs, especially during the light shows in summer.

Stay on the island in one of the many bed and breakfasts and fancy hotels, or head back to the mainland to enjoy views of Mont-Saint-Michel in all its glory, with many hotels in the small village of La Caserne to accommodate the 2.5 million yearly visitors.

However, the longest journey on this itinerary takes place between Mont-Saint-Michel and Honfleur, so if you want to save yourself the 2-hour drive in the morning, get on the road in the evening and stay closer to the city of Caen for a shorter drive on day 3.

Day 3 – Honfleur

Further north along the French coast, before reaching the industrial port of Le Havre, is the beautiful port city of Honfleur. Located on the Seine estuary into the English Channel, this lovely city is a great place for a peaceful afternoon wandering around the old harbour and enjoying fantastic fresh seafood.

The city’s beauty is undeniable, having been a popular destination for many artists, including Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin, who adored the seafront as much as the 16th-century houses with their uneven and characterful roofs. You can  organise a walking tour  if you prefer to learn more from a guide.

The best part of Honfleur is the seafront, although, of course, you can enjoy a bit of shopping in the old and new town located just outside the harbour. So, if you have a full day to spend in the area and don’t mind driving a little further, it’s worth heading slightly further north to the picturesque gardens of Ertretat.

The Jardins d’Etretat is a wonderfully diverse ornamental garden, divided into separate areas, with one garden designed to replicate the area’s famous oyster farms, with unusual sculptures by Samuel Salcedo hidden amongst the topiary.

You can happily spend a few hours here, so it might be best to head here in the morning of day 3 of your 7 days in the north of France, before heading back down to Honfleur for an afternoon walk and evening meal.

There are lots of lovely hotels in Honfleur, with some budget hotels and several 4-star hotels if you’re looking for a bit more luxury, so finding somewhere to stay in the area is not a problem. However, if you don’t want to move accommodation many nights in a row, consider making the city of Rouen a base for the next few nights.

Where to Stay in Rouen

Hotel Cardinal – Located in the very centre of Rouen on the banks of the Seine River, this hotel is an excellent option for mid-range travellers. They have a number of great rooms to choose from along with a lovely terrace for guests to enjoy.

Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde – This 5-star hotel is the perfect choice for those who want to spare no luxury while visiting the north of France. There are countless incredible amenities available to guests, the hotel is excellently located and there are plenty of great rooms to choose from.

La Villa – If you’d like to have your own apartment while visiting Rouen, then these fully furnished flats are a great choice. There are a range of different flats to choose from along with plenty of great amenities and a fantastic location in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Rouen hotels!

Day 4 – Rouen

Moving away from the coastal towns and further inland towards Paris along the Seine, we reach the wonderful capital city of Normandy, Rouen.

Rouen is a fantastic city to walk around and admire the remaining architecture of the Romans and the Mediaeval period, with numerous Gothic churches to be found scattered around the city. You  take a walking tour  of the area.

The most famous is the huge Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen which gives the Parisian cathedral of the same name a run for its money with its incredibly ornate stone carvings decorating the building from floor to spire.

Rouen’s Cathédrale Notre-Dame was another favourite of impressionist painter Claude Monet, so you can find many replicas and other paintings in a similar style in art shops all around the centre.

The city is perhaps most famous, however, for being the location of the death of French legend Joan of Arc. The 19-year-old was burned at the stake for heresy in May 1431 and quickly became a symbol of French freedom and heroism thanks to her efforts in leading the French army to defeat the British in Orléans in the Hundred Years War.

You can see the location of the young heroine’s death, now marked with a monument, as well as a statue in her honour beside the church dedicated to her.

Besides the beautiful half-timbered houses, historic monuments and churches, you can also find a number of lovely restaurants, the gorgeous 14th-century astronomical clock, the Gros Horloge, a brilliant Fine Arts Museum and the oldest auberge in France, La Couronne, dating back to 1345. Rouen has a bit of everything.

So, if you have more than 5 days to dedicate to your itinerary, it’s worth having a couple of days to spare for Rouen.

Day 5 – Dieppe

If you choose to continue on for another day rather than spending two nights in Rouen at the end of your 5 days in northern France, you’ll have a relaxing beach day in the town of Dieppe.

To get back home at the end of your day, you can head South to Paris to fly out of the country or take the Eurostar to London , Brussels or Amsterdam . Or, head up to Calais to take the Eurotunnel back across the English Channel in your car.

Dieppe is a small fishing community located on the Normandy coast, so it’s a perfect location to get your fresh fish, oysters and langoustines as well as enjoy the sunshine and a dip in the sea on a warm day.

You can visit the Château de Dieppe which houses a museum dedicated to the town’s history as a significant location in France’s ivory trade, with many skilled ivory carvers having lived there, as well as it being a place of influence in the impressionist artistic period.

For those with a historical interest, you can also learn about Operation Jubilee in the town’s permanent exhibition the Memorial of 19 August 1942; this military endeavour saw many soldiers from Dieppe killed during the Second World War.

The town itself is also lovely to wander around, with such gems as the Gothic Church of Saint-Jacques, the huge white cliffs looming over the beach and the harbour for you to discover.

Day 6 – Le Touquet

Making the most of the coast before heading inland again on day 7, we come to the delightful small town of Le Touquet.

Also known as Paris-Plage, le Touquet is one of the main destinations that saw thousands of Parisians descend on it during summer from the early 1900s onwards to enjoy the wonderful beaches.

Many large villas were built as summer homes for the wealthy Parisians, as well as tennis courts, golf courses and a casino, so there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the warm weather.

A lot of the town of Le Touquet was destroyed in both Allied and Nazi German bombings during the Second World War, and some buildings remain partially destroyed as memorials to the destruction.

However, several wonderful large houses also remain, showing off the fanciful designs of the Roaring Twenties. The town has also kept up its famous nightlife, so it’s a great place to spend your evening with a few cocktails and dance the night away.

Just along the coast from Le Touquet, you can find another lovely seaside town, Berck-sur-Mer. Film and literature enthusiasts will know the town as the setting of the internationally renowned book and film, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly ; the true story of a man who overcomes incredible adversity by writing a novel despite having Locked-In Syndrome. Definitely give it a watch before you go or read the book while you lounge on the beach.

This part of the coastline is also famous for having seal colonies living on the beach all year round, especially on the Plage des Phoques.

You shouldn’t approach the animals, but admiring them from the clifftops (you may need a pair of binoculars at low tide) is a wonderful way to spend your afternoon. For families with young children, there’s also a small amusement park, Bagatelle, just outside of the town.

End your day of exploration in the city of Lille, where there are plenty of great places to stay.

Where to Stay in Lille

Moxy Lille City – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Lille is an excellent choice for mid-range travellers. They have an array of great rooms to choose from, breakfast on offer each morning and a perfect location for exploring the city.

Grand Hotel Bellvue – Those after a luxury option in Lille will love this opulent hotel located on the Grand Place. There are a myriad of gorgeous rooms to choose from and endless great amenities available to guests.

Aparthotel Adagio – This aparthotel is a fantastic choice for travellers looking for their own furnished flat while visiting the north of France. They have a great location in Lille along with a range of flats to choose from.

The People – Lille – Budget and solo visitors to this historic French city will love this centrally-located hostel. Not only do they have a range of private rooms and dorms available, but there is also an on-site bar and restaurant to enjoy here.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lille hotels!

Day 7 – Lille

There’s no better place to spend the last day of your road trip, than the beautiful city of Lille . With its wonderful central square, Place du Général de Gaulle, lined on all sides by exquisite architecture, especially the city’s old stock exchange, La Vieille Bourse, this is a great place to enjoy your final night and say your farewells to France.

Take a quick ride on the big wheel for views over the city, visit the stunning modern Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral and walk down to the Citadelle de Lille for a pleasant stroll and marvel at famed architect Vauban’s work.

While in Lille you can also visit the Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle, where the former French president and leader of the Free French during WWII grew up, expertly restored to accurately resemble his original childhood home, with the addition of information about the Frenchman and his contribution to defeating the Nazis in France.

To learn more about the city you can take a walking tour with a guide. If you plan to visit many attractions then the Lille City Pass could be worth it as well.

You’ve probably eaten enough fish so far on the Normandy coastline, so it’s time for some cheese-covered treats like Le Welsh, similar to Welsh Rarebit and the Portuguese Francesinha, or the Flemish-style Chicory Gratin.

You can, of course, get fantastic Moules Frites in the city, but whatever you order, make sure you get some classic French Fries on the side.

To end your trip, you can then easily take the Eurostar back to London or on to Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam .

Have More Time?

If you’re lucky enough to have more than a week in northern France, there are many more activities you can enjoy and small coastal communities to visit, especially for those with a keen interest in history.

Between Mont-Saint-Michel and Honfleur, if you want to break up your journey slightly, you can stop by the small town of Bayeux, famous for its enormous tapestry of the same name.

Created in the 11th century and depicting the battles of William the Conqueror, the Bayeux Tapestry is an impressive 70 metres long and almost half a metre tall, and has survived the last thousand years in remarkable condition.

Along the coast north of Bayeux and on to Honfleur, are the famous D-Day beaches of Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, which saw the Americans, British and Canadians land in June 1944 before pushing through northern France and freeing the French from Nazism. You can take historic guided tours of the beaches to learn of the significance of D-Day and the Allied efforts in the war.

You can also spend a day in the lovely historic city of Caen. With brilliant Romanesque architectural remnants all over the city and a castle constructed by William the Conqueror, there’s plenty in the city of history fans – not to mention the museums dedicated to WWII and the Cold War.

Another great option is to visit the lovely city of Giverny, which is en route to Paris coming from Rouen and another popular place to visit within Normandy . It has a beautiful, historic old town and a great vibe to explore.

Northern France has plenty to excite any traveller, from families to solo adventurers. Enjoy the wonderful beaches, delight in the incredible seafood and immerse yourself in a thousand years of history as you drive or ride along.

Are you planning a trip to northern France? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect Calais Day Trip From Dover & Beyond

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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10+ Gorgeous Places You Must Visit in Northern France

Last Updated on 10th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Picture France. What do you think of? Baguettes, bicycles, and the Eiffel Tower? Now, think of French life away from Paris. I’m guessing you’re probably conjuring up images of the picture perfect azure blue French Riviera, and the endless stretches of Provence beaches in your mind’s eye. Well, there’s also a whole load of France worth visiting in the north of l’Hexagone as well! And so here are 11 gorgeous and breathtaking places to visit in Northern France .

Saint-Malo, Ille-et-Vilaine

Bayeux, calvados, rouen, seine-maritime, le havre, seine-maritime, mont saint michel, manche, amiens, hauts-de-france, carnac, morbihan, honfleur, calvados, etretat, seine-maritime, lille, hauts-de-france, dinan, côtes-d’armor, enjoyed reading about the most beautiful places to visit in northern france pin it now, read it again later:, best places to visit in northern france.

The walled city of Saint-Malo  has seen plenty of events and history over the years; including pirates during the middle ages and inhabitation by the Gauls in the 1st-century.

So iconic is the settlement in Brittany that it has been featured in countless books, art works, and movies over the years. The fortified city was even the birthplace of Jacques Cartier, the man who claimed modern Quebec for what is now France.

All that is left of what was New France is the archipelago of Saint Pierre and Miquelon . With this being said, head to northern France and you can visit the Breton city of Saint-Malo for yourself; wander the ramparts, explore ancient buildings, and soak up the historic atmosphere.

Bayeux may well be one of the best places to visit in Northern France, but it is often overshadowed by its more famous wall hanging of the same name, that of the Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England. The tapestry is a staggering 70 metres long and 50 centimetres tall.

Situated 30km northwest of Caen, Bayeux itself was first founded during the Gallo-Roman period and is now filled with plenty of museums, making this city the perfect French destination for history enthusiasts.

Some of the best museums to visit in Bayeux include the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum (a tribute to those who took part in the D-Day landings) and, of course, the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, where you can see the Bayeux tapestry for yourself.

With its timber-framed houses and links to Joan of Arc (who was allegedly burned at the stake in the centre of the city) , you can’t go wrong by dedicating at least a day or two to exploring the city of Rouen on any Northern French adventure.

Capital of the Normandy region, the old part of the city is dominated by one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in France, if not all of Europe, as well as plenty of cobbled lanes to meander along. At Christmastime, Rouen also boasts its own cozy Christmas market in the shadow of the cathedral.

The fishing city of Le Havre is situated at the very mouth of the River Seine (yep, the same waterway which flows its way through Paris) and Le Havre’s name literally means ‘the Harbour’ or ‘the Port’.

Though not the most aesthetically pleasing city in France, the architecture of the city has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site on account of its unique post war architecture.

Founded in 1517 by Francois I, the city was constructed to cope with the ever-increasing maritime needs of the tiny towns of Harfleur and Honfleur.

Today, Le Havre is filled with plenty of things to do; including traditional French eateries and various museums. Elsewhere in the city, Le Havre boardwalk offers plenty of restaurants serving up fresh sea-inspired menus.

Of course, no Northern France bucket list would be complete without a mention of the ever-iconic and ever-famous conically shaped tidal island that is Mont Saint Michel , which is separated from mainland France twice a day by the tide.

Once there, you’ll find an impossibly peched Gothic-style abbey (thanks to renovations by Viollet-le-Duc- a man who also had a go at altering Notre Dame and Carcassone, with varying degrees of success).

An ecclesiastical building has been situated on the mount for well over a thousand years and is just as impressive today as it must have been centuries ago. Today, a small village has sprung up around the abbey and the fortified church can be visited throughout the year.

This medieval city was once home to author Jules Verne, writer of Around the World in Eighty Days , and today his house can be visited in the centre of Amiens. Elsewhere, the city is filled with medieval architecture, as well as plenty of museums, and one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe.

In December each year, one of the largest Christmas markets in France can be found in the centre of the city, a real treat for those of us who love a cozy ambiance, vin chaud, and piping hot snacks!

Known in the language of Breton as ‘Karnag’, Carnac is home to one of the largest Neolithic sites in the world and is filled with menhirs, stone circles and dolmens aplenty. In total, there are 10,000 slabs of granite; all aligned in various ways and each of varying size and form.

No one knows why they were erected and so the mystery surrounding these UNESCO world heritage protected stones remains. Nearby there’s the town of Carnac , and in a forest closer still, is said to be the birthplace of Merlin from Arthurian Legend.

Pretty and picturesque, Honfleur is situated by the sea and filled with fairytale-like houses; exactly the kind of scene you’d expect to find on a vintage French postcard, or perhaps in an old movie.

While much of the attraction of Honfleur lies in its old world charm and picture-perfect views, there are also a few museums in town, as well as some excellent coastal walks nearby.

Much like other popular spots in Normandy, Honfleur gets particularly busy in high summer and so the best time to visit is either in the late spring or early autumn. Honfleur also boasts a surprising number of hidden gems .

While England has the White Cliffs of Dover, France has Etretat . This stunning stretch of coastline comprises of the village of Etretat, a set of chalky sea pillars, and an outstanding area of natural beauty encompassing ancient churches and winding coastal paths.

Just remember though, Étretat is where all the Parisians come to holiday, and so if you’re expecting some of the cheaper prices that can be found in the rest of Northern France, you’ll be in for a shock- the accommodation and restaurants in Etretat and its surrounds are all Parisian prices.

A pretty city with plenty of history, Lille is located right on the border with Belgium, and the resulting blend of French and Belgian cultures means that the city is full of Flemish influences, including beautiful Flemish architecture and cuisine that is typical of the region.

One of the top spots in the city where you can enjoy Flemish Renaissance architecture is the Vieille Bourse de Lille , which today functions as a second-hand book market. Be sure to bring cash and be prepared to look through piles of books- you’re sure to find treasure!

A trip to Lille can easily be combined with a visit to Brussels or Ghent, although you’ll likely want to spend at least a day or two dedicated entirely to exploring this fascinating city, especially its stunning old town and the streets surrounding Grand Place. For even more inspiration, be sure to check out our one day in Lille suggested itinerary .

While more West of France than East, the medieval town of Dinan is still Northern French enough to make the list! And just as well, because this is the French fairytale town you’ve never heard of, but should most definitely visit.

Filled with pretty houses, a steep medieval high street, and plenty of local bakeries, no trip to Brittany, or indeed Northern France, would be complete without a visit to the walled city of Dinan!

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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Great choices, but I am very surprised that Boulogne-sur-Mer, with its well-preserved, medieval city walls, lovely “vieille ville”, beautiful beach, and the largest aquarium in Europe, was not mentioned. In fact, nothing on the Côte d’Opale was mentioned at all! Ça m’étonne. It is a major part of the North.

Normandy Beach and cemetery.

Best Places to Visit in Northern France

Article written by Elisa This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit North of France

In general, Northern France is still rather unknown among international tourists, as its offer differs somewhat from the ‘classic’ holidays in France. However, once you visit North of France, it’s difficult not to fall in love with this part of the country, with a rich and diverse historical heritage and a range of natural environments unrivaled by any other regions in France .

Whether you plan to spend your holiday sightseeing, road tripping, or simply relaxing by the sea, north France is an ideal destination.

Ile-de-France is France’s cultural and political heart. It offers a unique backdrop for any trip to Paris, with countless historical monuments, magnificent châteaux, picturesque villages, and beautiful countryside.

Normandy offers visitors a stunning coastline, picturesque harbors, and elegant seaside resorts.  It is also the land of Impressionism, a movement inspired by Monet’s ‘impression’ of the sunrise at Le Havre.

Hauts-de-France is a region of awesome cathedrals, belfries, castles, and WW sites, but it is also a land of wide-open spaces, wild coasts, and beautiful countryside.

For this article, we asked some fellow travel bloggers and friends about the best places to visit Northern France. From cities and top sights to hidden gems, here’s the list of the best places in Northern France and the top things to do in Northern France.

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Best Things to Do in Northern France

If you’re wondering where to go, and what to do in Northern France, this list of best things to do in Northern France may give you some holiday inspiration.

Eiffel Tower (Paris, Ile-de-France)

The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic site of Paris and France and a must of any first trip to Paris. Built between 1887 – 1889 for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower had such a success that the City decided to keep it. Today, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited sights in Paris, with more than 7 million visitors annually.

Is it worth going up the Eiffel Tower? We say YES! Apart from the great views of Paris from above,  the permanent exhibition about its construction and the most curious facts is fascinating, plus there’s always something cool going on on the second floor.

If you want to visit the Eiffel Tower during your next trip to Paris be sure to book your tickets well in advance.

>> Click here to book your Eiffel Tower tickets

Versailles Palace & Gardens (Yvelines, Ile-de-France)

Another of the best places to see in Northern France is the Palace of Versailles and its surrounding gardens.

Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, and for a reason. The Palace, home to three French Kings, is a jewel of French Baroque architecture and the center of the royal power from 1682 to 1789.

When visiting Versailles , keep some time to explore the beautiful gardens, with their fountains, grooves, and the Grand Canal. Versailles Gardens are a masterwork of André Le Notre and one of France’s finest examples of French-style gardens.

>> Book your tickets to Château de Versailles

Dunkerque (Nord, Hauts-de-France)

Dunkirk (Dunkerque), the northernmost city of France just 10km west of the border with Belgium boasts a number of attractions that make this itself a destination rather than just a ferry port.

Widely known as the scene of an incredible evacuation of over 330,000 British and French soldiers during World War II the town of course has military and maritime connections. The fabulous and recently refurbished Operation Dynamo Museum is one particular highlight but do also head to the town’s harbor area.

Dunkirk also boasts the magnificent 4km long Malo Les Bains beach and adjacent Digue de Mer promenade . Linking Dunkirk to the neighboring village of Leffrinckoucke these are perfect for family days out, followed by a hearty meal in one of the many splendid restaurants and a leisurely stroll. For the more active these are also ideal for cycle rides or even sailing and kitesurfing.

Other cultural highlights include the LAAC Modern Art Museum and FRAC collection of over 1,500 contemporary artworks.

Suggested by Paul | thetwothatdo.com

>> Click here to book your hotel in Dunkerque

Giverny (Eure, Normandie)

Just over an hour northwest of Paris is Giverny in Normandy, the home, gardens, and water lily pond of French impressionist painter Claude Monet. 

A  day trip to Giverny  makes a great excursion from Paris, and you can see so much in a little amount of time. At Giverny, you’ll be able to tour Monet’s house and painting studio , visit his overwhelmingly beautiful flower gardens and walk around his famous water lily pond. It was here at his home in Giverny where Monet painted his famous  Water Lilies  series, and you can see that exact pond for yourself. 

During this quick and easy day trip, you’ll be able to learn all about Monet’s life and his quest for artistic perfection, as well as get to appreciate his love of gardening. There are over 100 varieties of trees, plants, and flowers on Monet’s property, and different times of year yield different blooming experiences. However, the most popular times to visit are in May to see the Japanese Bridge covered in purple wisteria, and July to see the water lilies in full bloom.

Suggested by Ashley |My Wanderlusty Life

>> Click here to book a half-day tour to Giverny from Paris

Amiens (Somme, Hauts-de-France)

Amiens is one of the most beautiful cities in Northern France, set only 120 km from Paris. This lovely place is known for its flower canals or floating gardens and the largest cathedral in France.

Flower canals or hortillonnages are intertwined around the river Somme and can easily be visited by foot or by boat. The path is filled with artistic bridges, educational trail, and some art installations through the islands that happen at the Festival of gardens. It’s 7 km long starting near the Saint-Leu district and the cathedral where the boat can be arranged also. At this spot, the water market takes place every Saturday.

Amiens cathedral is characterized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the stained glass makes a colorful impression. Not only Amiens deserves a visit but also Samara, an archeological park in the surroundings which takes you in prehistoric times.

Amiens can easily be reached by train or by bus specially Flixbus which takes 3 hours.

Suggested by Gabi |Underflowerysky.com

>> Click here to book your hotel in Amiens

Lille (Nord, Hauts-de-France)

Lille , the so-called capital of French Flanders, is one of the best places to visit in Northern France.

One of the criminally underrated cities in France , it owes much to its location near the Belgian border, feeling more Flemish than French, from its architecture to its food. Picture large cobblestoned squares lined with extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings you will have the measure of the place.

Take a  self-guided walking tour of Lille  to discover the best that the city has to offer.  Browse the bookstalls in the porticoed courtyard of La Veille Bourse , formerly the city’s stock exchange. Pay your respects at the  Notre Dame de la Treille , an intoxicating mix of Gothic and contemporary architecture and Lille’s spiritual beating heart.  In stark contrast,  L’Église Saint Etienne , one of France’s largest Jesuit churches, is the epitome of elegant simplicity.

Art aficionados won’t be disappointed: Lille is home to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, a fine art gallery, second only to Paris’s Louvre in size and stature.

Finally, no visit to Lille is complete without sampling merveilleux, little cakes of melt-in-the-mouth meringue liberally covered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

Suggested by Bridget | The Flashpacker

>> Click here to book your hotel in Lille

Etretat (Seine-Maritime, Normandie)

One of the most beautiful natural sights North of France is Etretat, located in Normandy. The small town is niched in a valley ending on a beach, where, on both sides, magnificent white cliffs are sculpted by the sea. There are arches, sea stacks, and tunnels cut into the 50 to 80m high walls of chalk.

It is easy to understand why it has inspired many artists through the centuries, such as Claude Monet.

Wear walking shoes to go explore some of the most beautiful sights:

• The top of the cliffs and their impressive views to see the rock formations: l’Aiguille Creuse (the Hollow Needle) and the arches such as Manneporte…
• The pebble beaches at the bottom of the cliffs, reaching the hidden ones via tunnels (at low tide only)
• The old town with brick houses typical of the region
• The fun gardens mixing art and nature

Etretat is 2h30min away from Paris by car and not easily accessed by public transportation. It deserves at least 2 days for you to discover its beauty.

Suggested by Claire | Zigzag On Earth

>> Click here to book your hotel in Etretat

Bayeux (Calvados, Normandie)

No trip to North France is complete without a visit to Bayeux . This pretty town may not be large, but it boasts plenty of worthwhile sights.

The town’s attractive center is dominated by the imposing Cathedral de Notre Dame , which dates back to the 11th century. The Gothic-style cathedral features two massive spires and its interior houses a crypt with restored frescoes from the 15th century.

A bigger drawcard, though, is the Bayeux Tapestry, a 70 meter-long embroidery that depicts the Battle of Hastings, when William the Conqueror invaded England in 1066.

Housed in a special glass cabinet in a purpose-built museum, the Tapestry consists of 50 scenes stitched on linen panels. It served as a pictorial book to explain the events of the battle to a largely illiterate population.  The Tapestry was commissioned in 1077 and remarkably, has survived for over 1000 years. It has been classified by UNESCO as a ‘memory of the world’.

You can visit the Bayeux Tapestry in the Centre Guillaume-le-Conquerant-Tapisserie de Bayeux , close to the center of Bayeux and just a 10-minute walk from the train station. Entry costs less than €10 per adult, and audio guides with commentary are available.

Suggested by Carolyn | Holidays to Europe

>> Click here to book your hotel in Bayeux

Mont Saint-Michel (Manche, Normandie)

Perched on top of a rocky island just off the coast of Normandy, this Benedictine abbey the most spectacular location of any abbey in France.

It seems like a more appropriate spot for a fortress than for a place of worship, and over the centuries Mont Saint-Michel has served as both. Attacked by English soldiers on multiple occasions in the Hundred Years’ War, it was never conquered.

A small medieval town grew up around the abbey, and it became one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Europe, second only to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, it has long been recognized as one of the most important landmarks in France.

The waters around Mont Saint-Michel have silted so much that it’s only really an island at high tide. Nevertheless, you are strongly recommended not to attempt to reach Mont Saint-Michel by crossing the mudflats, as the deep mud and quicksand can be very dangerous. Use the designated footbridge instead.

Mont Saint-Michel is one of the top places to visit in North France. The nearest train station is at Pontorson, and from there you can continue by bus to Mont Saint-Michel.

Suggested by Wendy | The Nomadic Vegan

>> Click here to book a day trip to Mont Saint-Michel from Paris

Vaux-le-Vicomte (Seine-et-Marne, Ile-de-France)

The castle of Vaux-le-Vicomte , near Paris, has a troubled history in France. Its past is scattered with conflicts, rumors, and jealousy.

The castle’s construction finished in 1661. Fouché, its owner, was then Louis XIV’s Finance Secretary. During a party, guest Louis XIV discovered that Vaux-le-Vicomte was more beautiful and expensive than his own castle of Versailles and retaliated: Fouché was sent to prison two months later. 

Visiting Vaux-le-Vicomte is one of the top things to do in Northern France and a great experience. Everything is in perfect condition in the castle. You wander from room to room, jumping back centuries. You get the same luxury and details as in Versailles but without the crowd. The gardens are wonderful in the summer. 

Vaux-le-Vicomte is easy to access: you can drive or take the P train from Paris, get off at Verneuil-l-Etang about an hour later and hop on a shuttle aligned on the train schedule.

You can find more information about the castle with this guide to visiting Vaux-le-Vicomte .

Suggested by Kenza | Cups of English Tea

Compiegne (Oise, Hauts-de-France)

Just 45 min train outside of Paris, the imperial city of Compiègne is well known for its palace, its spectacular forest, and for the role it played in both World Wars. 

In the center of the town is the Château De Compiegne , the summer residence of former French royalties. Adjacent to the palace, the 700 hectares parc is crossed by the Beaux-Monts alley, a 5km promenade leading to a hill with a spectacular view of the forest and the palace.

In the Compiegne forest also took place two major events of the 20th century.  In 1918, the Armistice was signed in a train wagon on the Clairiere de l’Armistice, ending the 1st World War. And in 1940, Hitler chose that same location to impose his terms on defeated France. The train carriage is now a memorial.

In the city center, don’t miss the imposing Hôtel de Ville , and the Unesco World Heritage Saint Jacques Church . In between the two, stop by Les Picantins , a pastry store selling the delicious local specialty of the same name: three hazelnuts covered in caramel and chocolate. 

Suggested by Emma | Bonjour Sunset

Honfleur (Calvados, Normandy)

One of the most picturesque cities in Northern France, Honfleur is known for cobbled streets and half-timbered houses typical of the Normandy region.

Honfleur’s beauty inspired artists over the centuries and in particular the masters of Impressionism including Monet. They painted the colorful town centered around its safe harbor – Le Vieux Bassin – on the Seine estuary where reflections shimmer in the water. Later they would retire to the cafes and bars and no doubt enjoyed some of the famed local seafood dishes and cider. 

When you visit Honfleur, make time to visit the  Sainte-Catherine church . This is the largest wooden church in France and has stood in place for over 400 years. The separate bell tower keeps watching over the town and its regular produce markets where you can pick up delicacies of the region, especially the famed Normandy Camembert.

On the last Sunday of each month, Honfleur hosts a wonderful brocante market where, if you’re lucky, you can find wonderful antique bargains. 

Suggested by Kathy | Untold Morsels

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10 Best Places In The North Of France To Visit

From thousands of years of history to beautiful castles and enough delicious food to fill your tummy every waking minute, Northern France is stunning. Honestly, you’re going to be spoilt for choice when it comes to all the best places in the north of France, especially if you’re travelling around the region.

One thing that I love most about the north of France is that it’s easily accessible from England, especially if you want a day trip (on foot, believe it or not) or a long weekend break in your car.

Both options are perfectly doable if you take a ferry from Portsmouth , Poole or Plymouth (all in England) across the English Channel to some of the best places in the north of France. where you’ve got the options for about five starting points to begin your adventure in the north of France.

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best places in the north of France. You’re going to have an amazing trip.

Take a look at some of the very best places in the north of France to visit, below. 

 1.) Le Havre

Le Havre is much more than just a port town, with lots of things to see and do when you arrive. Make sure to visit the museum of Modern Art, the stunning Le Havre Cathedral and the beautiful, Les Jardins Suspendus.

Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and trail the Côte d’Albâtre coastline that’s close by. It’s one of the prettiest coastlines and one of the best places in the north of France.

Now, it might get a little windy at times, from the sea breeze, but don’t be fooled, the sun is strong here! Make sure to pack some sunblock as you’ll easily leave red-faced if you don’t.

Afterwards, take a few minutes’ car ride over to Honfleur, too. The harbour area is totally beautiful and well worth visiting. 

Read more: Best places in France to visit

 2.) Caen

Caen is one of Normandy’s prettiest cities that is perfect for exploring some of that gorgeous French history that fills the region.

Make sure to stop at Château de Caen which was actually built by William the Conqueror almost 1,000 years ago.

For a great bite to eat, make sure to gorge yourself silly at A Contre Sens – a well-deserving Michelin Star restaurant that creates some yummy and creative meals.

It’s easily up there as one of the best restaurants in the north of France; that’s for sure. You’ll leave stuffed. 

3.) Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic communes in the north of France.

Perched on its own island it’s not too far from the mainland itself, which makes it easy to access. At low tide, at least.

Make sure to spend an afternoon exploring this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site that has a history dating back to the 6 th Century. Honestly, it’s so iconic and easily one of the best places in the north of France to see.

Just be aware, it does get very busy on the weekends and during public holidays. If you can, try and avoid these times and visit earlier in the morning or midweek.

You won’t fully get rid of the crowds, but they will be much less. 

Read more: How to visit Mont Saint-Michel

 4.)  Brest

Brest is a relatively large city situated on the westerly fringes of the north of France.

Make sure to visit Tour Tanguy, indulge in some local seafood from Le Crabe-Marteau, all after a long day of exploring the cobbled streets and independent stores.

Afterwards, if you want to take a break from the city, pop over to the Nature Park of d’Armorique. It’s totally stunning and the whole area around here is gorgeous.

Read more: Best hikes in France

Carnac is a relatively small commune on the north-west coast of France. One of the most famous places to visit here has to be the Carnac Stones which are thought to be over 6,000 years old!

If you decide to take a dip in the sea, head over to one of the commune’s five local beaches which are perfect on a summer’s day.

 6.)  Paimpont

Away from the breezy sea air, Paimpont is a gorgeous place to discover a little more history of this gorgeous region.

Make sure to visit the Abbey and discover the ancient forest of Paimpont which once was part of the vast forest that covered Brittany . It’s idyllic and one best places in the north of France to experience the region’s history.

Head into the forest and walk the nature trails, which are especially great in both winter and summer.

Just make sure to pack some good hiking shoes, though. Sometimes, the ground can be waterlogged from moisture here and it’s not fun to hike with wet feet.

Read more: Best places in Brittany to visit

7.) Combourg Castle

Château de Combourg is one of the region’s prettiest castles! Perched right next to Lake Tranquil, this medieval castle is the perfect place to see the beautiful castles of the region.

It’s a stunning area to visit and one of those castles that are amazing to explore on a sunny day.

If you’re interested in French castles and Château’s, make sure to check out our full post on which to visit, right here .

Vannes, is a relatively large town that is steeped in over 2,000 years of history.

Visit this walled town to discover some of its impressive timber-framed houses in the old town and the beautiful city walls.

Make sure to grab a bite to eat at La Tete En L’air. Not only is the food delicious but it’s totally beautiful and one of the best places in the north of France to gorge. 

You’ll love it. 

 9.)  Belle Island

Around 10 miles or so from the mainland of France, Belle Island is so close but it can feel like a million miles away. It’s easily one of the best places in the north of France to visit if you want to get away from the mainland itself. 

Make sure to visit some of its pretty towns, explore its rugged coastline, especially Côte Sauvage and discover some of the fresh fish restaurants that line the harbour fronts.

Read more: Best places to visit in France

10.) Rest of France

Okay, so, in lots of ways the north of France can be a gateway to exploring so much more of the country. Make sure to plan your route and stop off at places like Nimes , the stunning Dordogne Valley and Bordeaux , to name a few. 

It is a stunning country. 

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20 Most Beautiful Towns In Off the Beaten Path Brittany

Planning a trip to Brittany France?

Here’s my guide to the most beautiful towns in Brittany, a dramatic and wild region of northwest France. Brittany is deliciously varied. There’s spectacular scenery — heathland, marshes, a jagged coastline, stunning sand beaches, and azure waves.

Brittany is also just filled with secret medieval towns and villages where you can disappear down a cobbled lane into history.

If you’ve been in Paris or just want to get off the beaten path and explore secret areas of France , Brittany makes the perfect escape.

In Brittany, the Breton language is still proudly spoken. It’s actually closer to Welsh than to French. The further west you go, the wilder Brittany gets. If you want sun, be sure to visit between March and October.

And don’t forget to sample the crepes. Crepes are to Bretons what pasta is to Italians.

20 Beautiful Towns in Brittany France

Brittany is divided into four departments: Finistere in the west, Cotes-d’Armor in the north, Ille-et-Vilaine int northeast, and Morbihan in the south. Let’s take a tour of the most beautiful villages in all four areas.

Daoulas is a beautiful town in Brittany that’s Shakespeare famous. Shakespeare’s father lived in Daoulas. He was a cloth merchant who exported precious fabrics to London. Daolus is even mentioned in Henry IV, Part I.

If, like me you’re a ruin luster, Daoulas is famed for the early Gothic ruins of an ancient Augustinian abbey.

The abbey was founded in 500 AD on the banks of the river. The cloister is a unique example of a 12th century Romanesque cloister. Today, it’s a cultural center.

2. Locronan

Locronan is one of Brittany’s plus beaux villages and also designated as a “little City of Character.” It was a rich merchant village in the middle ages.

So picturesque are its streets that Locronan has been the filming location for several historical films, including Roman Polanski’s Tess .

The centerpiece is the Grand Place of Locronan. It’s graced with gorgeous buildings, dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries — granite homes, slate roofs, and fetching shutters.

Don’t miss the 15th century Church of Saint-Ronan. The chief feature is its belfry, which lost its spire in a lightening storm. Another lovely building is the Notre Dame Chapel of Bone-Nousbelle.

3. Rochefort-en-Terre

Rochefort-en-Terre is one of France’s les plus beaux villages and a must see village in Brittany. It was voted “France’s favorite village” in 2016.

It’s difficult to imagine a more beautiful and well-manicured French hamlet. Rochefort-en-Terre is fairytale-perfect and almost mind blowing, a sensation I had upon glimpsing the beautiful Rothenburg ob der Tauber on Germany’s Romantic Road .

Rochefort-en-Terre is an architectural dream, beautifully sited on a hilltop overlooking the Valley of Arz. It’s a town where rich merchants built lavishly decorated chateaus. Most date from the 17th century.

The mansions run from the Rue de Porche to the Place du Puits. They’re made of granite and half timbers and adorned with corbelled turrets, sculptures, and wood carvings.

As you stroll, inspect the Notre Dame de la Tronchaye church, which dates from the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s famed for a statue of the Virgin Mary, which was discovered by a shepherdess in a tree trunk.

The most swoonful place in Rochefort-en-Terre is the Place du Puits. It’s the perfect intimate village setting with stone buildings, hanging iron signs, a fountain, and flower boxes on every facade.

Pop into L’Art Gourmand for delicious chocolatey things. If hunger calls, try Le Café Breton, boasting original medieval decor. There are plenty of crepes and waffles to be had as well.

4. Josselin

The town of Josselin sits on the Nantes-Brest canal. Its fortress, Chateau Josselin, was ravaged over the years, including by Cardinal Richelieu. But three round towers with conical roofs still remain. The fortress was restored in the 1860s.

Josselin is a seductive medieval ensemble. It’s home to medieval half timbered houses, the flamboyant gothic Basilica Notre-Dame du Roncier, and a lively Saturday market.

Climb to the top of the bell tower of the basilica for panoramic views over the town and surrounding area.

The basilica is Josselin’s finest building after the fortress. There’s a cardinal’s coat of arms carved on the doorway. The pulpit is an 18th century wrought iron masterpiece.

5. Locmariaquer

Lochmariaquer means a “place consecrated to Mary.” It’s a resort town, offering promontory views of the Morbihan coast. Beautiful homes line the seductive Rue Lafayette.

Aside from being a pretty village, Lochmariquer is a Stone Age paradise for history buffs and ruin lusters. It’s the site of the most renowned Breton menhirs or standing stones, dating from between 3500 and 1800 B.C.

The stones (or burial chambers) were aligned, in part, to reflect the movement of the sun and moon. One dolmen, Mane Rethual, can be entered along a cover tunnel. The Gran-Menhir is a single piece of granite, 280 tons.

6. Paimpont

Paimpont is a village of lakes and chateaus. It’s reputedly the birthplace of the Lady of the Lake, from the Arthurian legends, who resurrected Lancelot. The Paimpont Chateau houses a museum devoted to Arthurian lore.

Surrounded by an ancient forest, Paimpont is the perfect stepping off point to explore the legendary forest of Brocéliande, which was supposedly home to King Arthur and the wizard Merlin.

Many trails lead from the town into the forest.

For those more interested in historical sites, the town’s ancient abbey dates from 1199. It was built on the sacred site of a 17th century monastery and has a stunning lakeside location.

7. Ploumanac’h

Ploumanac’h is one of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. It’s located on spectacular “pink granite coast,” halfway along the northern coast.

It’s essentially a glittering secret seaside. Ploumanac’h’s ruddy pink granite rock formations create an utterly surreal coastline. The town’s active edge of the world lighthouse stands guard.

Befitting a coastal town, Ploumanac’h contains both a beach area (Ploumanac’h-Plage), and an inland village (Ploumanac’h-Bourg). “Plou” means parish and “manac’h” means monk.

The most popular footpath in Ploumanac’h starts from the main beach area and undulates along the Sentier des Douaniers for three miles. Enjoy the soft dreamy granite and unusual vistas.

8. Fougeres

Tiny little Fougere is a delightful medieval village, only 40 minutes from Brittany’s chief city, Rennes. Fougeres is a must see for its fairytale-like chateau, the Chateau de Fougeres. The cutest spot in Fougeres is the Place du Marchix with its half timbered mansions and gardens.

For a delightful stroll through town, start at the parking lot near the chateau. Walk through Porte Sainte, the only remaining gate to the walled city. The chateau is on your left.

The chateau is more than 1000 years old. It has 13 towers connected by ramparts.

After circling the ramparts, head to the medieval quarter to visit Saint-Leonard church. There’s also a hilltop garden, the Jardin Public, next door. From the Church of Saint-Leonard you have the best view of the chateau.

The medieval town of Vannes is one of the best places to visit in the Morbihan (southern) region of Brittany. Vannes is an ancient town famous for its iconic cobbled lanes, narrow streets, and walled fortifications.

As you stroll, enjoy the phenomenal art and architecture. Visit the magnificent Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Hotel de Ville de Vannes, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vannes, and Henry IV Square.

Vannes is also known locally for its great foodie scene — especially crepes, local cider, and seafood. If you need a meal in Vannes, you’re in luck. Vannes is home to several Michelen starred restaurants, including Le Pressoir.

10. Roscoff

Roscoff is a charming seaside town located in the Finistère region on the northern coast. It’s officially designated a “ town of character.” You can explore the harbor, beaches, and the attractive architecture.

Roscoff is filled with 16th and 17th century buildings. The main sites are its 16th century church and botanical gardens.

Other highlights of this pretty Breton town include the historic botanical garden of Georges Delaselle Garden and the heritage museum of Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon de Roscoff.

Carnac is a small, charming town on Brittany’s southern coastline. Carnac’s claim to fame is its Neolithic stones, the Carnac Stones. They are the world’s largest and densest collection of Neolithic monuments, with almost 3000 stones.

If you are a ruin luster, Carnac is a mandatory stop in Brittany. Erected by the pre-Celtic people, the stones may date to as early as 4500 BC. They consist of single standing stones called menhirs and multi-cluster stones called dolmens.

Their actual purpose remains mysterious. Various theories claim they were used for ceremonies, burial sites, and even astrological purposes.

The town of Carnac itself is divided into Carnac-Ville and Carnac-Plages (beaches). At the town center is the 17th century church, St. Cornely, and the Museum of Prehistory. Carnac-Plages is an seaside resort on Quiberon Bay, with fine sandy beaches and plenty of shops and restaurants.

12. Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a charming walled town, thrust out into the sea and straight out of the history books. Founded in the 1st century, Saint Malo became a prominent Roman fortified site.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was a famous port used by trade ships and pirates alike. Saint Malo starred in the wonderful and evocative book All the Light We Cannot See , winner of the 2015 Pulitzer Prize.

The best things to do in Saint Malo are to wander along the town’s 12th century ramparts (a rewarding 1 mile romp), which encircle the town, and explore the ancient churches. Though seriously damaged in WWII, Saint Malo was restored to perfection. To see it all, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Saint Malo Cathedral also dates from the 12th century. It has some beautiful stained glass windows.

But strolling the cobbled streets is the main attraction. Discover Maison Hussaye, the oldest house in the city with a cute turret. After a stroll, head to the beach and relax.

13. Quimper

The postcard perfect town of Quimper is one of Brittany’s most beautiful and oldest towns, located along the Odet River. Originally settled during Roman times, Quimper is the Celtic capital of the region. It’s all Gothic architecture, footbridges, and ancient cobbled lanes.

Quimper’s most famous landmark is the Cathedral of St. Corentin, built between the 12th and 18th centuries.

If you’re an art lover, you can wile away a couple hours in the Musee des Beaux-Arts or Quimper’s Pottery Museum. Quimper had an economic boom in the 17th century thanks to its pottery trade.

If you’re a fan of the BBC’s Poldark series, you may remember that Quimper is where Ross Poldark makes a daring rescue of Dwight Enes from prison. The episode (Season 3, Episode 5) was filmed onsite at the former convent turned prison in real life in 1790.

Auray has all the components of a quaint, easy on the eyes town.

Located in the port of Saint-Goustan, Auray is fill with historic half-timbered and stone houses. It’s is a lovely place with chic restaurants, tony cafes, and arty boutiques.

Auray dates back to the 1600s and 1700s, when the port was a major trading hub and source of international sales. The town even welcomed Benjamin Franklin in 1776 when he sought French assistance in the Revolutionary War.

15. Saint-Suliac

Saint-Suliac is another of Brittany’s plus beaux villages. It’s a charming tiny fishing village, located between Saint-Malo and Dinan.

Its pretty granite houses, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, are adorned with flowers, painted shutters, and fishing nets.

There’s not much to do besides enjoy the swoonful scenery. There’s an attractive 13th century church, one of Brittany’s oldest. You’ll want to photograph every nook and cranny.

If you promenade down the Rue des Besnieres, you’ll come to a statue of the Virgin of Grainfollet, which was thought to protect the villagers from the likes of cholera.

16. Moncontour

Beautiful Moncontour is another of France’s “les plus beaux” villages. It’s a medieval walled town perched on a hill at the confluence of two rivers.

Based on its location, Moncontour was a strategically important medieval village. Richelieu battered the town in the French Revolution. But its doughty fortress still remains.

The old town of Moncontour is incredibly charming. Its half timbered houses date from the 17th century, when Montocour was a wealthy trader in hemp and linen. The most delightful ones are on the Rue des Dames, Rue du Docteur Sagory, and the Place du Martray.

Moncontour also has a 16th century parish church with a belfry, Saint-Mathurin. It boasts superb stained glass windows, which ornament the choir and the nave.

Hanging on the side of a cliff, Dinan is one of the most famous and magical villages in Brittany. In all of France really.

If you only have time for one stop in Brittany, make it Dinan. It’s an impeccably preserved ancient city that escaped the bombing of WWII.

Dinan is a walled village with hefty ramparts, cobbled lanes, and half timbers everywhere. Dinan has barely changed since the middle ages. What could be more romantic?

The best thing to do in Dinan is to simply savor its old world charm. Wander the port, walk the ancient medieval walls (1.8 miles), admire the 14th century Chateau de Dinan, and visit St. Sauveur Basilica.

The basilica dates from the 12th century. It’s a charming blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It has striking modern stained glass in a well lit nave.

But Dinan’s absolute must see site isn’t really a site at all. It’s a street, the Rue du Jerzual.

It’s the pedestrianized main street that winds through the town down to the port. Along the way, you’ll pass half timbers with wisteria covered facades, art galleries, and shops.

Vitre is a beguiling medieval town with a fairytale castle. It boasts Brittany’s characteristic half-timbered houses, stones cottages, and quaint cobbled streets.

The spiky castle is called the Chateau de Vitre. You can take a self guided tour. One tower is 6 levels high, affording great views. The fortified castle is small, but authentically foreboding.

The infamous Madame de Sévigné is Vitre’s most famous former resident. She was a novelist who fell in love with the chateau-castle and visited frequently.

Her private letters to her daughter — sparkling with wit, intelligence, and gossip — are considered one of the great works of 17th century literature.

19. Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most visited landmarks, dedicated to the Archangel St. Michael. It’s a breathtaking Gothic fortress-style island commune rising dramatically from the bay.

Both the rock top abbey and the cobbled alleys will leave you in a medieval state of mind.

The star attraction is the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel and its lovely cloister. It was settled in 996 by Bendictine monks. For 1,200 years, it’s been a Christian pilgrimage site. The abbey is a mix of architectural styles, with religious and military overtones.

After the French Revolution, when France was de-Christianized, the abbey became a prison. It was closed in 1863. In 1979, Mont St. Michel was declared a UNESCO site.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Mont Saint-Michel . Click here to pre-book a skip the line ticket.

You can visit on a  full day guided tour from Paris . Alternatively, you can book a  guided tour from Bayeux .

20. Cancale

Cancale is a coastal fishing village. It’s also the oyster capitol of Brittany, gaining fame when it was featured in Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations .

If you’re crazy for oysters, you can even take a tour of the oyster beds with the Saint Malo tourist office.

While known for its oysters, Cancale is beloved for its natural beauty. You may even have a glimpse of Mont St. Michel. Stroll around the port, cruise on a traditional fishing board, and wander in the historic center.

You can even walk to Cancale from Saint Malo.

You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources for France:

• 3 day itinerary for Paris
• 5 day itinerary for Paris
• Hidden gems in Paris
• Secret hidden gems in France
• Famous landmarks in France
• 10 day itinerary for southern France
• Charming hidden gems in Provence
• Guide to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
• 30+ beautiful towns in northern France
• Beautiful villages in Normandy

If you’d like to visit the most beautiful villages in Brittany, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Towns In Off the Beaten Path Brittany”

Hi, Thank you for your suggestions, now i have an idea where to go. I am planning to go to Brittany in July. Where is a good base for 4 days to see all these towns and villages? Much appreciated.

Dinan and Vannes make good bases, I think. If you want to explore the north, try Ploumanac’h.

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Last Updated on March 5, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

A Blog About Life & Travel in France

The Perfect 5-Day Northern France Itinerary (2024)

• By Jen Ciesielski
• 23 March 2024

Northern France is a charming, picturesque part of an already diverse country. It’s often overshadowed by destinations in the south, but, let me assure you, there’s a lot to see here.

I moved to France over six years ago, but my first visit was in 2012. Since then, I’ve traveled all around the country, including the north of France.

From the World War II memorial in Dunkirk to the Grand Place in Lille, there isn’t a place I haven’t been to.

In this post, I’ve put together the ultimate five-day northern France itinerary. It covers the best places to visit, as well as tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Northern France Itinerary Overview

Northern France is made up of several regions, including Normandy, Brittany, and Hauts-de-France.

Of these three, Hauts-de-France is considered the true north and it’s what this itinerary will focus on.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:

• Day 1: Paris
• Day 2: Amiens
• Day 3: Lille
• Day 4: Dunkirk
• Day 5: Paris

Helpful Tip : This itinerary can be done by car or train. I’ve detailed how to do both below.

North France Itinerary – Day 1

Discover paris.

The first day of your trip starts in the historic district of the City of Light. I lived in Paris for three years and spent hours exploring this area.

There’s a ton to see and do, but I’ve listed my top recommendations below.

✓ Explore Île de la Cité

It’s home to well-known landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. But my favorite thing to do here was tour the Conciergerie.

This former palace and prison once served as a Revolutionary court and famously held Marie-Antoinette as a prisoner. Today, it’s a museum full of interesting exhibits.

✓ Tour Île Saint-Louis

Here, you’ll find quaint cafés, boutique shops, and, of course, the Église Saint-Louis-en-l’Île.

I’ve visited this island and church several times and it was always less crowded than Île de la Cité.

✓ Visit the Louvre

There’s no denying the Louvre is a popular museum. But you can’t come to Paris and not stop by.

When I’ve gone, I’ve always picked out a few must-see pieces, and then spent the rest of my time wandering around.

✓ Relax in Jardin du Luxembourg

These gardens were created for Queen Marie de’ Medici in the early 17th century.

Today, you can stroll through the manicured lawns and flower beds, enjoy a picnic, or visit the infamous Medici Fountain.

I, personally, loved visiting in summer when the gardens were in full bloom.

North France Itinerary – Day 2

Travel from paris to amiens.

On the morning of day two, you’ll travel from Paris to Amiens.

By Train : Trains run regularly from Paris’ Gare du Nord station to Amiens and take about 80 minutes.

By Car: Driving time is about two hours, depending on traffic. The most direct route follows the A16. (Distance: 163 kilometers or 101 miles)

Explore Amiens

The second day of your trip will be spent exploring one of my favorite cities in the Haut-de-France region, Amiens.

I’ve spent a lot of time in this little town and it’s truly a hidden gem. There’s a lot to do here so I’ve narrowed down the absolute must-visit activities below.

✓ Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens

This Gothic cathedral is the largest in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s easily one of the most spectacular churches I’ve seen. I’d say it rivals Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral.

✓ Discover Les Hortillonnages

Outside the center, you’ll find Les Hortillonnages – a series of floating gardens.

Take a boat tour to explore this unique area and learn about its fascinating history.

I booked the earliest departure and I saw tons of wildlife.

Helpful Tip : Boat tours are only available from April to October, otherwise you can follow one of the two walking paths that circle the gardens.

✓ Explore Saint-Leu

This charming district is full of cobbled streets, colorful houses, and quayside restaurants.

I found the houses along Rue des Granges to be the prettiest while Quai Bélu gave the most unique view of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens.

✓ Tour the Musée de Picardie

This museum houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts that date to ancient civilizations.

Not only that but I found the building itself to be beautiful, particularly the Rotonde Sol LeWitt.

✓ Discover Jules Verne’s House

If you’re like me and are a fan of Jules Verne’s literary works , then visiting his house is a must.

This museum offers an insight into the life and work of this famous writer and features replica rooms from his home.

North France Itinerary – Day 3

Travel from amiens to lille.

On the morning of day three, you’ll travel from Amiens to Lille.

By Train: Trains run regularly from Gare d’Amiens to Lille-Flandres or Lille-Europe and take about 75 minutes.

By Car : Driving time is about 90 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route follows the A1. (Distance: 140 kilometers or 86 miles)

Discover Lille

Lille is one of the most underrated places I’ve been to in France . It’s a charming city with a unique blend of Flemish and French architecture. It’s also known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere.

Usually, I recommend spending two days in Lille , but you can still see a lot in a day.

Below are some activities worth checking out.

✓ Explore Vieux-Lille

This historic district is where you’ll find the most beautiful architecture in town.

One of my favorite buildings in this part of Lille is La Vieille Bourse.

It was built in the 17th century and hosts a second-hand book market every afternoon.

✓ Discover the Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse

This former hospital was founded in 1236 by the Countess of Flanders.

It’s now a museum showcasing a vast collection of artworks, furniture, and tapestries.

I learned so much about the history of Lille here and saw what life was like before the French Revolution.

✓ Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts

This museum is the second-largest fine arts museum in France, with an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.

It’s also home to works by famous artists like Monet. But my favorite was Donatello’s Feast of Herod.

✓ Climb the Beffroi de Lille

One of the coolest things I did in Lille was climb to the top of the Beffroi de Lille .

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an incredible panorama of the city and its surroundings.

After the first 100 steps, there was an option to take an elevator to the top, which I did because my vertigo was kicking in.

✓ Try Local Cuisine

Lille is famous for its food. And there are lots of things to try. My favorite restaurant was Estaminet Au Vieux De La Vieille .

I ordered the Assiette Régionale so I could try the most famous local dishes like potjevleesch and carbonnade flamande.

✓ Tour La Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle

This is the birthplace of Charles de Gaulle, one of France’s most influential political figures.

Now a museum, the house offers a unique insight into de Gaulle’s life and legacy.

I loved how the rooms were kept in their original state and seeing his personal belongings helped me connect with the history.

✓ Check Out Jardin des Géants

This is one of the most unique gardens I’ve been to in France.

It’s home to tons of giant statues that are carved from plants.

There’s also a small café where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle.

North France Itinerary – Day 4

Travel from lille to dunkirk.

On the morning of day four, you’ll travel from Lille to Dunkirk.

By Train : Trains run regularly from Lille-Europe and Lille-Flandres to Dunkirk’s main train station. Times range from 30 to 75 minutes.

By Car : Driving time is about 60 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route follows the A25. (Distance: 75 kilometers or 46 miles)

Visit Dunkirk

While I knew about Dunkirk’s role in World War II, I hadn’t realized how much more there was to see in this coastal city. I loved it so much that I extended my stay during my first visit.

There’s a lot to do here, but, for this itinerary, you’ll want to focus on the attractions below.

✓ Tour the Musée Maritime et Portuaire

This museum showcases the city’s complete history, including its important role as a port.

There are model ships, paintings, and interactive exhibits.

I especially loved touring the Duchesse Anne and the Risban Lighthouse.

✓ Climb the Beffroi de Saint-Éloi

Of the belfries I visited in northern France, the views from the Beffroi de Saint-Éloi were the most spectacular.

From the top, I had a 360-degree panorama and an incredible bird’s eye view of the Saint-Éloi Church.

✓ Relax on the Beach

The beaches in Dunkirk are some of the most pristine I’ve seen in France.

They stretch for kilometers (miles), and I’ve always found a spot with very few people.

It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Plus, there’s also plenty of restaurants to grab a bite to eat.

✓ Visit the Musée Dunkerque 1940 – Opération Dynamo

This museum is dedicated to the events of Operation Dynamo when thousands of Allied soldiers were rescued from Dunkirk’s beaches during World War II.

I loved the life-like displays and introductory video that gave an overview of the rescue operation.

It was a moving tribute to the bravery and resilience of those involved.

✓ Discover Le FRAC Grand Large

This contemporary art museum is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and stunning modern architecture.

While the permanent collection was impressive, I loved the temporary exhibits.

They change every few months and always showcase thought-provoking artwork. When I went, Chaleur Humaine was on display.

✓ Rent a Bike

While there are a lot of things to see in Dunkirk , there are a few sites nearby that are also worth visiting.

I rented a bike from Location Vélo Dunkerque and cycled to Bray-Dunes, Fort des Dunes, and Batterie de Leffrinckoucke.

It took me a few hours, so I recommend doing this activity either on the morning of day four or moving it to day five.

North France Itinerary – Day 5

Travel from dunkirk to paris.

On the morning of day five, you’ll travel from Dunkirk to Paris.

By Train : Trains run regularly from Dunkirk’s main train station to Paris’ Gare du Nord and take about two hours.

By Car : Driving time is about 3 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route follows the A25 and A1. (Distance: 314 kilometers or 195 miles)

Visit Paris

Depending on your schedule and how you’re traveling (either by train or car), you can finish the list of activities above or the attractions I recommend below.

✓ Ascend the Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower .

Whether you climb the stairs or take the elevator, the views from the top are breathtaking.

The times I’ve gone I’ve booked the earliest or latest ticket. It’s the best way to avoid the crowds.

✓ Explore Montmartre

This charming area is known for its bohemian atmosphere and stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

I loved strolling down the cobblestone streets and admiring the architecture.

I’ve been hundreds of times and it’s always busy, but well worth it.

✓ Discover the Champs-Élysées

Over the years, I’ve spent hours on the here, people-watching and window-shopping.

It’s also the best place to marvel at the Arc de Triomphe.

My favorite spot is at the corner of Avenue d’Iéna and Place Charles de Gaulle.

Get In and Around

This itinerary for northern France starts and ends in Paris.

The capital of France has two well-served international airports, Orly and Charles de Gaulle.

From there, the two best ways to travel are by train and car.

Traveling by train is the easiest and most popular way to get around France. You’ll find plenty of departure times for each journey listed above.

Helpful Tip : I recommend buying your train tickets as early as possible.

If you prefer more freedom and flexibility, renting a car is another option. All major car rental companies have offices at both airports.

When to Visit Northern France

While northern France is a year-round destination, you’ll find some months of the year are better than others for crowds, prices, and weather.

Summer (June to August) – These months are peak tourist season, which means crowds and higher prices. But you’ll also get the best weather, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxing on the beach.

Fall (September to November) – As summer ends and temperatures cool, you’ll find fewer tourists and cheaper prices in Dunkirk. The only downside is the number of rainy days per month increases in October and November.

Winter (December to February) – While it may be cold, winter is the best time to visit for bargain hunters. Prices are at their lowest, and the Christmas markets are a magical experience. Make sure to pack lots of layers.

Spring (March to May) – This is the shoulder season, which means you’ll still get decent weather without the high prices and crowds of summer.

Conclusion: North of France Itinerary

There is so much to explore and discover in the north of France. From historic sites to beautiful landscapes to bustling cities, this region has it all.

Some of my favorite sites are the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens, Vieux-Lille, and the Musée Dunkerque 1940 – Opération Dynamo.

They each offer a unique perspective on the history and culture of northern France.

Now that you have your itinerary planned why not consider adding another city to your trip? I recommend Lyon. It’s an easy day trip from Paris .

Read More Articles About France

I hope you enjoyed my post and found it helpful. Here are some other articles that I think you might interesting.

• Is Lille Safe? The Ultimate Safety Guide for 2024
• The Perfect Paris to Amiens Day Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect Paris to Lille Day Trip (Local’s Guide)

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

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Curious Claire

12 Best Places To Visit In Northern France

May 28, 2022 by Claire Filed Under: France , Europe Leave a Comment

With over 89 million visitors each year, France tops the list of the most visited countries in the world. Yet, most parts of the Northern France region have remained off the maps as far as tourism goes making it one of the best parts of the country to visit especially if you’re yearning for unspoiled beauty.

From captivating castles, and resplendent vineyards to unrivalled natural beauty, and captivating hamlets full of culture and history, Northern France is undoubtedly the best-kept secret in this country. It’s also the birthplace of some of the most renowned historical figures in France such as Claude Monet and Joan of Arc.

If you’re curious to know where you should visit in this beautiful region, here is a list of the best places to visit in Northern France

• 1.2 Provins
• 1.5 Honfleur
• 1.7 Mont Saint Michel
• 1.9 Le Havre
• 1.11 Saint-Malo
• 1.12 Bayeux
• 2 Plan Your France Itinerary

You really couldn’t have a list of the best places to visit in northern France without including the country’s capital. While to many Paris is an obvious choice of destination, sometimes that means it can be underestimated. Paris is one of those great destinations that can be returned to many times, with each visit offering something new.

Paris reflects the city’s rich and cultural history. With plenty of museums and historical buildings, there’s plenty to see. And lets not forget, plenty of incredible places to eat too.

With easy connections to many countries around the world, Paris is easy to get to and makes a fantastic base for visiting the other beautiful places mentioned on this list.

READ ALSO: 35 Books Set In France

Located in the north-central of France, this fortified UNESCO town makes a great day trip from Paris . While this medieval town is known for hosting the best medieval fair in France, it is worth visiting all year round.

The main attraction Provins offers is the well-preserved, original fortification from the 12th Century. Visitors can climb up Tour Cesar which offers spectacular 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside.

Not all the sites are above ground though. While the original purpose of the underground tunnels remains a mystery, guided tours are available in the summer months.

READ ALSO: Things To Do in Provins

Located on the north-eastern edge of France, Lille is a significant commercial and cultural hub. But most importantly, it’s the capital of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. It’s just a few miles east of the Belgian border which makes it pretty easy to visit if you’re coming from Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, or England.

Although this city has a lot of attractions, it’s particularly a captivating locale to visit if you’re yearning for a historical and cultural adventure. The beautiful historical edifices and baroque buildings plus cobblestone streets in the Old Lille give you a taste of the Flemish heritage of the city. However, it’s probably the hearty cuisine and the jolly character of the locals that will make the memories of your visit here indelible.

The city boasts an amazing public transport system including a well-connected railway which makes it a delight to transverse through the city.

Charming medieval streets, a beautiful harbour, incredible gastronomic scene, and buildings that are steeped deep in history are the top traits that define Vannes. Pervaded by quaint timber houses dating back to the 13th century, Vannes is one of the largest towns in Morbihan, a department found within the region of Brittany.

With medieval and modern structures standing side by side, the difference in the architectural styles creates a stunning contrast between the past and the present. Built on the foundations of an embattled Roman city, Vannes is nestled within a majestic well-preserved wall that was extended in the 15th century to encircle new parts of this town.

Although there are a lot of things to see and do in the city, walking along the ramparts is by far one of the most incredible attractions in Vannes. There is a huge public garden in most parts of the ramparts where you can enjoy the sight of groomed flowers, pathways, and picturesque views of the fortified wall.

Honfleur, one of the most beautiful coastal towns in France is located south of Le Havre right on the estuary of the Seine River. The town’s main attraction is probably its old harbour , Vieux Bassin, which dates back to the 17th century and is surrounded by colourful narrow buildings. Once jammed with commercial vessels and fishing boats, this port played a huge role as a commercial center, but today, the waters around the dock are filled with beautiful yachts.

Other notable attractions in Honfleur include its wooden main church and the beguiling views of the Seine estuary. The city is also pretty famous due to its association with renowned French artists and painters such as Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and Eugène Boudin.

Home to the standing stones, one of the most significant prehistoric sites in Europe, Carnac is a resort town on the south coast of Brittany and an amazing place to visit for a dose of historic architecture, a laid back town centre, and amazing cuisine.

While visiting the town you should also look forward to the expansive sandy beaches that Carnac has to offer especially if you’re a sun and sand fanatic.

Mont Saint Michel

Set on a rocky islet and rising from the sea, Mont Saint Michel is one of the most beautiful sights in France and the third most visited attraction in the country.

Located slap-bang at the border between Normandy and Brittany, this captivating commune initially started out as a sanctuary around the year 708. Many centuries later, Mont Saint Michel, a magnificent structure that was allegedly built after a divine direction, is home to a stunning church , an ancient town and it boasts incredible views of the sea.

With its 1.7 mile-long ramparts, a beautiful port, a 13th-century castle, and a huge collection of half-timbered houses, Dinan looks like a town straight from a fairytale. This glorious Breton town is located in Northern Brittany and it’s one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in the region.

In addition to the town walls, other popular attractions in this town include the Donjon de la Duchesse Anne, the alluring cobbled streets of the old town, and the laidback harbour, among other architectural wonders. You can see why it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in northern France.

Le Havre is a stunning port city perched at the mouth of the Seine River. While it’s not one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, it’s a UNESCO-listed city. Unlike most Normandy cities that were reconstructed to reflect their old self after destruction during wars, this city took a different direction. Most parts of Le Havre were totally destroyed during World War II.

When Auguste Perret was given the lead role in the reconstruction of the city, he introduced a new design and popularised the use of concrete in the country. This design shaped the city as it is today, and helped Le Havre earn a listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aside from the unique architecture, Le Havre is home to some beautiful museums, pebbled beaches, and it has the busiest port in the Normandy region.

Conveniently located between Le Havre and Paris on the banks of the River Seine, Rouen is a city that oozes history, culture, and architectural charm. Its location played a major role in trade during the medieval times making it a favourite spot among merchants.

Between the 14th and the 15th century, a lot of traders settled around the area building astounding timber-framed homes and this brought exponential growth to the city. Today, most of these buildings are still intact and they’re part of the long-standing history of a vibrant art scene that Rouen has offered its visitors for centuries.

While the city boasts a lot of beautiful monuments and picturesque chill spots, it’s famous for a more sombre reason. It’s the city where a national heroine, Joan of Arc was executed.

This ancient coastal city is situated in Ille-et-Vilaine and remains to be one of the best-kept secrets in the Brittany region. It was designed as a citadel, with its gigantic walls and fortifications dating back to the 12th century.

However, save for the town walls, the Château de Saint-Malo, and Cathédrale Saint-Vincent de Saint-Malo, large parts of this town were destroyed during World War II. So much of what you’ll see here was reconstructed between 1948 and 1960.

Once a haven for the privateers (state-sponsored pirates), Saint-Malo gets some of the largest tides in Europe and this results in an ever changing landscape around the coastline.

The cradle land of the historical Bayeux Tapestry, this town is situated just a 2.5-hour train ride from the city of love. If you’re a history enthusiast then Bayeux will seem like an open museum with its medieval charm and countless artefacts in every corner.

To start with, Bayeux was the very first town to be liberated from the Nazis during the Normandy Invasion on 6th June 1944 which makes it a great base from where you can explore the D Day Landing Beaches . Despite the fact that its museums, as well as the memorials, have a gloomy tale to tell especially when it comes to the invasion of England and World War II, the streets of this town are the quintessential architectural heritage and a lively place to visit.

There you have it, 12 beautiful places to visit in northern France. Which will you visit first?

Plan Your France Itinerary

Looking for more amazing places to see in France? Why not check out some of these

• Provins: An Easy Day Trip From Paris
• 11 Beautiful Towns and Villages in Dordogne
• The Best Castles in Southern France
• 35 Books Set in France
• Wine Tasting in Corsica
• Famous Bridges in Europe
• The Ultimate European Bucket List

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12 Beautiful Places to Visit in Northern France

By Helene Sula

When most of us think of France, we think of Paris. Or perhaps the gleaming southern cities on the French Riviera like Nice. But I urge you to look north to find some of the best places in all of Europe: culture, cuisine, and history galore. I've got 12 beautiful places to visit in Northern France that will win you over.

Going to Northern France was an incredible experience. Despite being on a different continent, seeing the war history made me proud to be an American. We planned a trip centered around Normandy and some areas in Brittany, ending in Verdun. There are so many wonderful cities in Northern France to visit but we picked 12 that really stood out.

I thought the trip would be introspective and educational. But I was floored to find beautiful, Beauty-and-the-Beast-type stone cities that quickly won my heart. Add in the divine food, and you've got a recipe for a truly captivating trip.

France is a large country and places like Paris and Nice are drastically different from places like Bordeaux or Saint Malo. Because there's so much to see and do, it can be hard to choose where to start. I've created a Northern France itinerary that is easy to follow. Along the route I've picked some of the most picturesque towns, historic cities, and hidden gems that will steal your heart.

Know Before You Go Northern France

One of the best parts about this area of France is that it's very accessible. We drove our car over from Heidelberg, Germany. You can also take the ferry from England to quickly and easily reach Northern France. You can also make the short trip from Paris to this region as well.

Immediately, you'll notice this area is all about their “C's”. You won't be drinking wine, Normandy and Brittany are known for their delicious ciders. You'll also find a plethora of cheese, but Camembert is king. The other c's center on: crepes, caramel, creme, and, for a different path, cemeteries. Since D-Day took place on these beaches, there are many memorials, museums, and some of the largest cemeteries dedicated to those that fought in World War II.

Getting around this area is very easy, but I suggest that you take a car to make sure you see it all. Parking is very easy to find and often cheap or free. We drove our car, and recommend renting with Sixt if you need to rent.

Northern France Route

Because we were coming from Germany, we first stopped off at a more eastern city, then made our way west. You can easily make this itinerary your own. I just want to illustrate some of the best cities to see in Northern France.

We spent seven days in the region and really covered a lot of ground:

• We started the trip spending one night in Rouen and explored the town.
• Day two we stayed in the small town of Pontorson and visited the cities of Arromanches and the next day in Mont Saint Michel.
• We then headed to Saint Malo and Dinan.
• Days four and five were spent focusing on the D-Day beaches and the towns nearby. We stayed in Caen for three nights while touring this area and toured Bayeux.
• Our last few days we headed back west, towards Germany, and visited Honfleur and spent the night in Reims. O
• ur last day was spent in the Champagne region in Epernay and Hautevillers.
• On our way back to Germany we also headed to Verdun for some WWI history.

We did all of this easily in seven days. I thought this was the perfect mix of beautiful castles, powerful history, and some of the best food I've ever had.

Things to Know About Normandy

Normandy is well known as the beginning of the end of World War II. The beaches stand out because so many Americans, British, and Canadians flock here to pay their homage in remembrance. But there is more history here than just a war-torn past.

The Impressionist movement was born in Normandy in the second half of the 19th century when people like Monet, Sisley, and Renoir painted the Seine river. These painters and more got out of the studio and painted outside. There's even a festival held each year to celebrate art n Normandy.

Best Places to Visit in Northern France

There are so many things to do in Northern France that taking a few days to a week is best to ensure you see it all. We focused our efforts in Normandy since this area is famous for William the Conqueror and his caste in Caen, the incredible 1,000-year-old tapestry in Bayeux, and the events that happened on the D-Day beaches that shaped our future.

Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in this post:

I might be biased, but Rouen immediately put this trip on the right path. It could have been the perfect weather, the Summer Solstice festival, or the delicious meal, but it left a wonderful impression on me. This is the capital of Normandy and is set on the River Seine. You'll find an incredibly gorgeous Gothic church that stands imposingly over the city square.

Rouen is the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. So you'll find a church in her honor as well as an extremely good museum. Historical Jeanne d'Arc museum is where you can visually see her trial that led to her death as well as her path to leading the French army in battle.

We headed to the tourist office and purchased a walking tour which comes with an audio guide and map- such a great option! I try to always do a walking tour in a new city because it helps me understand the history and see more of the beauty of a town. We started off at the incredible Notre-Dame Cathedral which is directly in front of the tourist's office. This is the epitome of Gothic art with a huge structure and very yellow “buttresses” and is the only cathedral in France that has an adjoining archiepiscopal palace still occupied by an archbishop today.

It's a treat to walk around Rouen- especially when you have an ice cream macaroon. If you do anything, buy one of these and be charmed as you stroll the streets. The Gros-Horloge is a stunning 14th-century astronomical clock and arch. Make sure you take a look under the arch as you pass.

Stop for dinner at funky Le Kitsch . I had one of the best meals of pulled duck baked in a dish with potatoes. Divine!

We stayed at Saint Sever Hotel which was convenient and a quick walk to the city center.

We drove further west to head to the town of Pontorson. This is a tiny town not far from the main attraction in the area, Mont Saint-Michel. Truthfully, there isn't much to see and do in the town, but it's a good place to sleep and be in close proximity to other beautiful places like Dinan and Saint Malo. Of course, you can stay within Mont Saint Michel, but the prices are pretty expensive. We crashed here for the night to explore more of Northern France.

There was also a great little restaurant called La Casa De Quentin where we had excellent cider- which is the drink of choice in this region, and delicious crepes. A very traditional meal.

Here are some great hotels in Pontoroson . If you're wanting to see how I book great hotel deals in Europe, check out this post .

Mont Saint-Michel

One of the most unforgettable sights is the steep monastery village, the sanctuary of Mont Saint-Michel. It rises out of the sand, sometimes surrounded by water, to shine like a beacon into the sea. Twice dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts an interesting history.

It's called the “Impregnable Fortress” since, during the Hundred Years War, the monks defended the abbey against English invaders. About seven or eight times a year, the tide rises, sometimes so high you can't drive a car. Now there's a bridge that solves this problem but back then this would be very hard for intruders to combat.

The Monastery was built early in the 8th century after Aubert, bishop of the nearby hilltop town of Avranches, dreamed that the Archangel Michael pressured him into having a church built atop the island just out to sea. Mont Saint-Michel has also been used as a prison from 1793 o 1863. Now tourists flock here to see it's beauty. There's also a pilgrimage route where visitors can walk the Camino de Santiago which was a route since the 9th century.

This is one the most visited sites in France so it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance. Getting there is very easy, with shuttles running almost constantly. You can't drive directly into the Mont, but easily accessible parking costs €11.70 for 24 hours and a free shuttle or walk on a footbridge brings you directly to the site. There's even a dog kennel here since dogs are not allowed in the city.

I recommend getting there early and taking a guided tour of the abbey. The tour is about an hour long and shares the history of Mont-Saint Michel and details of the cloister.

Walk around the town and through the Bavole Gate on the tiny streets stuffed with shops and restaurants.

The omelets are famous on the island since they are made in a unique way and are very fluffy. However they were around €30 a person, so we passed. Instead, we drove over to Saint Malo for some delicious and fresh seafood.

Pro tip: for a great view of Mont Saint-Michel take the farmer's roads on either side to get away from the crowds and snap some pictures.

This beautiful walled in port city has gorgeous views of the coast and beaches. There is ample underground parking and it's very easy to see this city in a half day. The tall, granite walls surround the town and are thick and sturdy enough that you can walk around the ramparts.

I was utterly floored by the beauty of the beaches here. The crystal clear blue water with the ramparts in the background made for an impressive sight.

Check out the Saint-Malo Cathedral in the center of town, you can tour Fort National , a 17th-century granite fortress, and check out the local seafood.

We had a delicious lunch here, but an even more delicious dessert. We stopped for decadent chocolate cake at Timothy . If you'd like to save a few bucks make sure you order it to-go .

I wish we had more time in this charming little stone town. Unfortunately, I fell and turned my foot on a cobblestone, so I only got a peek at its beauty. I suggest walking around the town, stopping for lunch, and touring the castle.

Dinan is in the Brittany region of France and it's known for the medieval ramparts, cobblestone streets, and charming half-timbered houses. The Chateau de Dinan is an interesting look back at the 14th century in France.

D Day Beaches

One of the most moving places I've ever been to before was walking the D-Day beaches in Normandy, the same beaches my grandfather fought on and where so many lives were lost. It's hard for me to put into words just how important it is to remember our past, and I believe the D-Day beaches in Normandy are a necessary part of learning and understanding our history.

We visited Utah beach , Omaha beach and memorial, and Pointe Du Hoc . We went to the museums which were incredibly well done and interesting. We also had a guided tour (it's free) at the Normandy American Cemetery . You can walk through German bunkers and even see some debris still left in the water at Gold Beach .

I wrote about how much theses beaches impacted me right here and this post showcases just how much these places meant to me.

I recommend about 2-3 days here in order to really experience the museums, take a guided tour of the cemetery, and walk around the beaches.

This small, pretty port city is a great place to stay in order to go to the beaches and also go to other lovely towns nearby. This is a bit of a bigger city, so you also have ample opportunities for good restaurants.

This was the first big city freed by the Allies in WWII, so there's lots of history surrounding this place. There are the US armed forces memorial and museum , a medieval chateau ( Chateau de Caen ) and two abbeys ( Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbey aux Dames ).

We ate at a delightful restaurant called Villa Eugene . Well-priced, trendy but traditional cuisine with a great atmosphere. Highly recommend.

I found the hotels here extremely convenient and well priced. Check out where to book a room right here .

The town of Bayeux has an exceptional heritage. What stands out the most is the incredible cathedral and the famous “ Bayeux Tapestry .”

The 900-year-old tapestry was in Bayeux Cathedral , it's now housed in a museum, tells the story of William the Conqueror and battle of Hastings. William was promised the throne, but Harald took it, and William battled him at Hastings and took the throne.

Don't forget to check out the cathedral, pictured above. The town is charming and a short drive from Caen.

Driving into Honfleur I noticed the tree-lined boulevards speckled with roses. This artistic and historic town has picturesque streets reminiscent of Copenhagen ‘s Nyhavn. There are colorful buildings lining the port which make for a beautiful backdrop for photos.

I recommend heading to the tourist information center to pick up a town map and taking the shot route that guides you through the city. After visiting Vieux Bassin , head over to St. Catherine Church .

For thousands of years sailors came here and they built a church that looks similar to a boat. Along the way you'll find narrow cobblestone streets and traditional craft shops. St. Catherine Church is the largest wooden Church in France and richly decorated. Also, go to St. Léonard Church which dates back to the 16th century.

There's also lots of art in this city since they say this is the birthplace of impressionism. You'll find lots of art shops. But my focus was on the delicious crepes and refreshing cider.

We picked up some sinfully yummy liquid caramel sauce that we pour on pancakes or ice cream for special occasions. Our favorite thing for souvenirs is always local food!

This city sparkles with beautiful architecture and champagne. The impressive Reims Cathedral towers over the city and makes a grand statement. It's in Gothic style and also was the coronation site for 25 king and queens.

The 900-year-old history here includes some very major events. Joan of Arc came here with Charles to crusade for his right as king. The cathedral was badly bombed in WWII and went under extensively reconstruction. Also, Chagall designed a stained glass window here in 1964. But originally, Reims cathedral was a Roman bath. It first became a church in 407 and it's also where Saint Demi baptized Clovis. This cathedral has some of the most beautiful stained glass I've ever seen.

After checking out the cathedral, we did a walking tour of our own around the town. There are so many interesting spots along the way.

Make sure you check out the beauty of Palace of Tau , which is where the treasury of the town is kept. Not far away is the Saint Remi Cathedral which is equally as impressive.

Here we did a champagne tour of champagne house Taittinger . We learned all about how champagne is made, toured the cellars, and had a tasting. This was so much fun and made me really appreciate champagne! Walking through the UNESCO chalky cellars transport you back in time.

That night we ate pizza at L'Antica which was scrumptious and a nice change from our fancy French dinners.

Hautevillers

This tiny town is where Dom Perignon discovered champagne and we couldn't resist stopping here. His remains are still in the cathedral and it's worth it to walk around for a stroll.

As a monk, Dom Perignon proclaimed, “Come quickly, I’m drinking stars!” after double fermenting his grapes.

You can also pop into designated houses for a free (or very inexpensive) champagne tasting.

You'll find the town on top of a hill surrounded by vineyards and a picturesque outlook.

After our fill our fill of champagne, we popped into the town of Epernay for a couple hours. There is, surprise, another stunning cathedral , an entire avenue dedicated to champagne , or see Perrier's Chateau .

If you'd like to stay and learn more about champagne, and, let's get real, keep drinking, you could extend your stay here. You can even stay in a former mansion of Monsieur Auban-Moët in Hôtel de Ville.

Our last stop on our way back to Germany was Verdun. Since we came to learn so much about WWII history, we wanted to see some WWI history as well.

The Battle of Verdun was the largest and longest battle of World War One. The museum here, called the Verdun Memorial , was an interesting look into understanding more about war. We also went to the Douaumont Ossuary which is a monument to those that died in WWI along with the cemetery. It contains the remains of 130,000 unidentified soldiers from WWI.

Best Places to Stay in Northern France

I found hotels to be priced very reasonably and since you have a car, you don't necessarily need to be in the heart of the city. I booked all of my hotels (albeit very last minute) right here and didn't spend more than 70 euros a night. I was pleasantly surprised by how nice, clean, and convenient all places were- not to mention, pet friendly!

I went to Northern France without many expectations but I left with a renewed love of this region. This area of France left a deep impression on me, and I know I'll come back again and again to eat, learn, and remember our past. To me, this is one of the most important places an American can travel to.

Explore more:

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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The best Northern France itinerary

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 02.09.2024

Forget the glitz of Paris—northern France is where you'll find the true essence of French life. Whether you're into history, a foodie, or just love stunning landscapes, this journey through northern France has something special for you. So, pack your bags, brush up on your French, and get ready for our northern France itinerary, designed by our Rough Guides local travel experts.

Travel ideas for France, created by local experts

An active walking tour out of the way in France

Your trip starts with an in-depth introduction to France in Paris: several unique day excursions connect you with local Parisians to show you their city and way of life. Afterwards continue south to start a few days walking journey through Southern France before ending around Avignon.

Southern France – Walks in the Alpilles and Lavender fields

Start your tour in the coastal city of Marseille, exploring Cassis on the way. Around the Alpilles in Provence, you will be provided with detailed walking materials to explore the area on foot, from both Les Baux and St Remy. End your tour in famous Avignon.

Tasting Eastern France

A delicious yet active journey through Eastern France. Start your trip in Lyon with some unique food tours before setting off on a 4-day walk across the Beaujolais region. Almost every day ends with a wine tasting in your guesthouse, soothing for body and soul.

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

Start your journey in Belgium and explore Brussels, Ghent and Bruges. A high-speed train will then take you to Strasbourg, from where you'll discover the Alsace. Proceed to Basel as your base, from where you'll see plenty of Switzerland: Zermatt, Matterhorn, Mount Pilatus and much more.

Plan the best northern France itinerary with our tips

If you’re ready to ditch the endless scrolling through TripAdvisor and wrestling with SNCF timetables, this is for you. Our tailor-made trips take care of the planning and booking and let you dive straight into the good stuff. 

These trips are designed by travel experts local to the area, and are completely customizable to what you want to do and see during your trip. Plus, you’ll have support 24/7 during your trip. See some of our France itineraries for inspiration. 

When to go to France?

Generally speaking, late spring ( April to mid- June ) and early fall ( September to October ) are the prime times to go to northern France. You'll dodge the worst of the crowds and sky-high prices, plus you'll get to see France at its blooming best in spring or decked out in autumn colours. The Lille Braderie, Europe's largest flea market, takes place in early September - a must-see if you're around!

Summer (mid-June to August ) is the peak tourist season. This is a great time to go because of the long days and warm weather, but brace yourself for more tourists and steeper prices.

How do you get around in France?

For a trip that covers multiple regions, a combination of train travel and car rental is your best bet. Take trains for the longer journeys between cities, and rent a car to explore more rural areas like the Dordogne or Provence at your own pace. Be sure to book high-speed trains in advance to get the best deals.

• Train : Northern France's rail network is top-notch, courtesy of SNCF. The high-speed TGV will whisk you from Paris to Lille in just an hour. For shorter hops, regional trains (TER) are your go-to.
• Car : Nothing beats the freedom of the open road in Northern France. Rental cars are perfect for exploring the D-Day beaches of Normandy or the picturesque villages of the Somme Valley. The autoroutes (highways) are smooth sailing, but keep some euros handy for tolls.
• Buses : Long-distance buses like Flixbus and Blablabus offer wallet-friendly connections between major northern cities. They're slower than trains but can be a lifesaver for reaching spots with limited rail connections
• Bikes : Northern France is surprisingly bike-friendly. Cities like Lille and Rouen have great bike-sharing schemes, and there are some stellar long-distance cycle routes too.
• Ferries : Exploring the coast? Hop on local ferries to cross river estuaries or visit offshore islands. The ferry between Le Havre and Trouville-sur-Mer offers a scenic shortcut across the Seine estuary.

How many days do you need in Northern France? 

Ten days is the sweet spot for northern France. It’s enough time to explore the highlights while still being able to take spontaneous detours or see more off-the-beaten trek hidden gems.

With a 10-day Northern France itinerary, you'll get to soak up the vibe in cities like Lille and Rouen, explore coastal gems like Étretat and Honfleur, and delve into the heavy history of Normandy's landing beaches. Plus, you'll have time to actually enjoy those long French meals and maybe even squeeze in an impromptu day trip or two.

Want to explore the south instead? You might like our 7-day itinerary in Southern France .

How do you get to Northern France? 

Getting to Northern France is pretty straightforward . If you're travelling from outside Europe, flying into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is usually the easiest option. From there, you can quickly connect to many places in Northern France, like hopping on a direct TGV train to Lille, which takes about an hour.

If you're already in Europe, the extensive rail network makes getting there pretty easy. Major cities like Brussels, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt have direct train connections to various destinations in Northern France. And if you prefer flying straight into the region, airports like Lille Airport (LIL) or Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA) offer flights from several European cities.

Citadel of Lille  © Shutterstock

Our 10-day northern France itinerary

This well-paced trip allows you to experience everything that makes France so special.  We've designed this northern France itinerary to provide a balanced mix of exploring cities and towns, hitting the beach,eating great food, and visiting historical sights. 

Day 1: Arrival in Lille

This northern France itinerary begins with an arrival in Lille, the capital of the Hauts-de-France. This city is a unique blend of French charm and Flemish influence, thanks to its location at the crossroads of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. You’ll notice this mix in everything from the architecture to the food.

Start your visit with a stroll through the city center to get a feel for the place. Head to the Grand Place, Lille's main square, to take in the main sights, including the Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange).

Next, wander over to Vieux Lille (Old Lille), a picturesque district known for its narrow cobblestone streets and beautiful 17th-century Flemish architecture. With its warm brick facades and cozy little squares, it's the perfect spot for your first dinner in France.

Consider trying local specialties such as carbonnade flamande (a beef and beer stew) or waterzooï (a creamy fish or chicken dish) at one of the many traditional restaurants. 

Day 2: Spend a day exploring Lille

Start your second day in Lille with a morning visit to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine arts museums in France outside of Paris. You’ll find an impressive collection here, with works by European masters like Rubens, Van Dyck, and Delacroix.

Afterward, take a short stroll over to Wazemmes Market, open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings. This vibrant spot is filled with fresh local produce, cheeses, and delicious street food, and is perfect for grabbing a quick lunch 

In the afternoon head to the Citadelle de Lille, a star-shaped fortress designed by Vauban in the 17th century. 

As the day winds down, make your way to Rue de Gand, a lively street known for its great selection of restaurants. This is the perfect place to experience Lille's reputation as a gastronomic hub. Finish your evening with a drink at one of Lille's cozy bars, like La Part des Anges, a charming wine bar with a wide selection of French wines.

City of Lille (north of France) - Main square with belfry © MisterStock/Shuttertock

Day 3: Lille to Rouen

On your third day of this Northern France itinerary, you’ll bid farewell to Lille and embark on your journey to Rouen , the historic capital of Normandy, with some scenic views of the French countryside along the way.

Travel times

• By train: Lille to Rouen takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes
• By car: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Once you arrive, check into your hotel and get ready to explore this charming city, renowned for its medieval architecture and its ties to Joan of Arc. Start your adventure at the stunning Rouen Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece famously painted by Claude Monet in a series of works.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the old town's picturesque streets, where you’ll come across the Great Clock (Gros Horloge), a fascinating 14th-century astronomical clock. As you wander, keep an eye out for the half-timbered houses that add to Rouen’s unique character. Eventually, you'll find yourself at Place du Vieux-Marché, the site where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431. Today, this lively marketplace offers a glimpse into the city's rich and complex history.

For dinner, treat yourself to some Norman specialties like duck with apples or sole à la normande.

"Gros-horloge", Great Clock in Rouen © Shutterstock

Day 4: Exploring Rouen

On Day 4, you’ll be diving deep into the charm of Rouen. Kick off your morning with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can check out an impressive array of paintings spanning from the 15th to the 21st centuries, including masterpieces by Monet, Sisley, and Delacroix.

After, take a stroll through the Jardin des Plantes — a beautiful botanical garden perfect for a peaceful break. When lunchtime rolls around, head over to Rue Eau de Robec. This picturesque street is lined with antique shops and cozy cafes. 

In the afternoon, make your way to the Church of Saint-Maclou. This stunning example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture is a must-see. Just around the corner, you’ll find the Aître Saint-Maclou, a fascinating and slightly eerie medieval plague cemetery with intricately decorated half-timbered galleries.

As evening sets in, head to the lively Quartier Saint-Marc. Known for its vibrant nightlife, this area is packed with great restaurants and bars. Wrap up your night with a drink at Le Saxo, a popular jazz bar known for its live music. 

Day 5: Rouen to Étretat

On your fifth day, you'll leave the historic streets of Rouen behind and head toward the stunning coastline of Étretat. 

• Car: The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you the freedom to stop at interesting spots along the way.
• Public transit: You can also take a combination of buses and trains, which takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the sight of Étretat's famous white chalk cliffs and natural arches rising from the sea. After checking into your accommodation, start exploring this picturesque coastal town.

Take a walk along the pebble beach and soak in the incredible views of the cliffs. For the best vantage points, hike up to the Chapel Notre-Dame de la Garde on the east cliff or the gardens of Étretat on the west cliff. From these spots, you'll get breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and the iconic needle-like rock formation known as L'Aiguille (The Needle).

After your cliff-top adventure, stroll through the charming town center, where you'll find beautiful Belle Époque villas and quaint streets. Be sure to visit the old covered market, now filled with various artisan shops.

Étretat chalk cliffs, including three natural arches and a pointed formation called L'Aiguille or the Needles © Shutterstock

Day 6: Étretat to Honfleur

On your sixth day, it's time to say goodbye to the stunning cliffs of Étretat and head towards the charming port town of Honfleur.

•  Car: The drive takes about an hour, with lovely coastal views along the way. 
• Public transit: Taking buses will take around 2 hours.

When you arrive in Honfleur , you'll instantly notice its postcard-perfect beauty— with its colorful harbor, slate-covered house facades, and cobblestone streets. Start your visit at the Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor), the heart of the town, where you're surrounded by tall, narrow houses that have inspired artists for centuries.

Next, make your way to the wooden Church of Saint Catherine, the largest wooden church in France, complete with a separate bell tower. For lunch, check out La Cidrerie, a spot known for its tasty galettes (savory crepes) and local cider. 

In the afternoon, stroll through the charming Enclos district, filled with art galleries and craft shops. To wrap up your day, take a walk along the Jetée de l'Est for beautiful views of the town and the Pont de Normandie.

Cap Grisnez Cliffs, North France © Shutterstock

Day 7: Honfleur to Landing Beaches

On day seven, you'll leave Honfleur and set out on a scenic coastal drive toward the D-Day landing beaches. If renting a car isn’t an option, don't worry—there are plenty of tour buses that follow this route.

You'll take the picturesque Route du Littoral, which offers stunning views of the English Channel and takes you through charming Norman villages . Your first stop could be Deauville, a glamorous seaside resort famous for its wide sandy beaches, grand hotels, and well-known film festival. While you’re there, take a stroll along the iconic boardwalk, Les Planches, lined with colorful beach cabins bearing the names of famous actors.

Next, continue to Arromanches-les-Bains, where you can explore the site of Gold Beach and see the remains of the Mulberry artificial harbor. The D-Day Museum here is a must-visit to get a deeper understanding of the massive logistics behind the Allied landings.

As you head further west, make a stop at the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer, one of the best-preserved sites of the Atlantic Wall.

For lunch, treat yourself to some fresh seafood at La Cale in Port-en-Bessin, a quaint fishing village. In the afternoon, visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, which overlooks Omaha Beach. The beautifully maintained grounds and endless rows of white crosses serve as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.

Utah Beach, beach of the invasion landing, Normandy, France © Shutterstock

Day 8: Explore the landing beaches

On the eighth day of this Northern France itinerary, you’ll dive deep into the history of the D-Day landings by exploring Utah Beach and Omaha Beach.

Start your day early at Utah Beach, which is the westernmost of the Allied landing sites. Here, you can visit the Utah Beach Landing Museum, located in what used to be a German bunker. The museum gives you a detailed look at the events of June 6, 1944, featuring exhibits like an original B26 bomber and personal artifacts from the soldiers who fought there. Don't forget to walk along the beach itself—it's a powerful experience to imagine what it must have been like on that historic day.

Next, make your way to Sainte-Mère-Église, where you can check out the Airborne Museum. This museum is dedicated to the American paratroopers who landed in the area and offers some fascinating insights.

For lunch, consider stopping by Le Roosevelt in Sainte-Mère-Église to sample some local cuisine. In the afternoon, head to Omaha Beach, known for the intense and bloody fighting that took place there on D-Day. Start with a visit to the Overlord Museum, which has an impressive collection of vehicles, uniforms, and personal items from the battle. Afterward, spend some time on Omaha Beach itself.

Utah Beach, Normandy Landing Memorial © Shutterstock

Day 9: Landing beaches to Saint-Malo

On Day 9, you'll leave the solemn beaches of Normandy behind and head toward the walled city of Saint-Malo in Brittany,  giving you a chance to watch the landscape shift as you move from Normandy into Brittany.

• Car: The drive is about three hours
• Public transit: A series of buses and trains will take around 6 and half hours

If you have time, consider stopping at Mont Saint-Michel on the way. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its abbey perched on a rocky island, is one of France's most famous landmarks. You can spend a few hours exploring its winding streets, the old ramparts, and the abbey itself.

After your visit, continue on to Saint-Malo. As you get closer, you're sure to notice the city walls rising from the sea. Once you've checked into your hotel, you can start with a walk along the ramparts that surround the old town, which will give you great views of the sea and the city. 

Then, wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, known as Intra-Muros (meaning "within the walls"). Make sure to visit the Saint-Vincent Cathedral, which beautifully combines Romanesque and Gothic architecture. As the evening sets in, find a spot on the walls to watch the sunset over the sea. For dinner, try the seafood at Le Chalut, a Michelin-starred restaurant right in the heart of the old town.

Saint Malo in Brittany, France © Shutterstock

Day 10: Explore Sanit-Malo

Begin your morning with a visit to the Château de Saint-Malo, which houses the town museum. Afterward, catch a boat to the Île du Grand Bé during low tide. This little island is where the Romantic writer Chateaubriand, a native of Saint-Malo, is buried. The walk gives you some stunning views of the city walls and the surrounding sea. Then you can head back to the old town for lunch at Le Bistro de Jean, a great spot known for its delicious seafood and traditional Breton dishes.

If you have some extra time, consider a quick 30-minute drive to the medieval town of Dinan. This charming Breton town is famous for its half-timbered houses, a picturesque port, and impressive ramparts. Take a stroll along the Rue du Jerzual, a steep cobbled street lined with artisan workshops, and check out the Basilica of St. Salvator. Then, make your way back to Saint-Malo for your final evening.

Wrap up the day by watching the sunset from Bon Secours beach, where you can also spot the unique seawater swimming pool that fills up at high tide. For a memorable farewell dinner , dine at L'Absinthe, a cozy restaurant offering creative French cuisine in a charming 16th-century building.

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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A Guide to the Northern Jewels of France: 5 French Coastal Towns

Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history and charming coastal towns, France’s northern coastline has been shaped by its maritime heritage and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. From bustling fishing ports to quaint seaside villages, there are numerous port towns in Northern France that are worth exploring.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a relaxing coastal getaway, these port towns have something to offer for everyone, and they’re only a ferry trip away ! This September there are some great low fare options with Brittany Ferries .

Caen – Shutterstock

Caen is a historic city famous for its beautiful castle, the Château de Caen, which was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and became the favourite residence of the Dukes of Normandy and the Kings of England. The castle is now home to two museums, the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which showcase the history and art of this beautiful northern region. Visitors can also explore the Abbaye aux Hommes, a stunning Romanesque abbey that was also founded by William the Conqueror. The abbey is now home to his tomb, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

Foodies will love the local specialty, tripe à la mode de Caen , a hearty dish made with beef tripe and vegetables that is then slow-cooked in cider. Talking of cider, another local specialty is the Calvados brandy – visitors can take a tour of a local distillery to learn about the production process and sample some for themselves. While you’re in the area, make sure to explore the vibrant food markets, such as the Halles de Caen, where you can find fresh produce, cheese, and other local delicacies.

Caen is also a great base for exploring the local region, meaning you can take a day trip to the charming coastal town of Honfleur , known for its picturesque harbour and colourful buildings. Or explore the charming seaside resorts of Deauville and Trouville, known for their sandy beaches and elegant architecture. A 30 minute drive west of Caen, you’ll find Bayeux with its famous tapestry, which depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England, the town also has a beautiful cathedral.

Benefit from the three daily sailings from Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries to discover Caen

St Malo – Shutterstock

St Malo is a walled port town on the English Channel, ready to welcome you with its beautiful beaches, historic architecture and delicious coastal cuisine. Visitors can take a stroll along the ramparts of the old town, which offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The Cathedral is also worth a visit, with its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive organ.

Seafood lovers will be in heaven in St Malo, with its abundance of fresh seafood. The town is particularly famous for its oysters, which are harvested from the nearby oyster beds. Visitors can sample them at one of the many seafood restaurants in the town. Another local specialty is the galette , a savoury crepe made with buckwheat flour and filled with cheese, ham, or other ingredients.

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Dinard, known for its stunning beaches and Belle Époque architecture, or visit Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most famous landmarks. If you’re still craving le fruits de mer make sure to check out the charming town of Cancale, known for its oysters and seafood restaurants.

Sail overnight from Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries to St Malo

Port Racine on the Cotentin peninsula is well worth a visit – Shutterstock

At the northern tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, Cherbourg is known for its beautiful harbour, which is home to many historic ships, including the Titanic’s sister ship, the RMS Olympic. Visitors should explore the Cité de la Mer, a museum housed in an old transatlantic liner terminal, that tells the story of the town’s maritime history. Plus it features an aquarium with over 10,000 marine animals which is sure to entertain the whole family. The Musée de la Libération is also worth a visit, telling the story of the town’s role in the D-Day landings.

Don’t miss the Place Napoléon, home to the town hall and the Sainte-Trinité church, then on the next street over stop in one of its brasseries, bistros and cafés. As with France’s other northern towns, seafood and galettes often feature on the menus, but one local specialty is the brioche de Cherbourg, a sweet bread traditionally eaten for breakfast. 

Those inspired by a visit to the local museums might want to visit the D-Day beaches to pay their respects to the brave soldiers, and reflect on the stunning cliffs of Cap de la Hague which offer breathtaking views of the sea.

Choose from a daily Brittany Ferries sailing from Poole to Cherbourg, regular crossings from Portsmouth, or in summer take the three-hour high speed sailing from Portsmouth

Le Havre – Pixabay

Despite being destroyed during World War II, Le Havre is a bustling port town that is now famous for its modernist architecture designed by Auguste Perret. Art and history lovers can explore the Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux, which houses an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings . Enjoy a stroll along the beach promenade or through the narrow streets and admire the beautiful buildings while you’re there. Don’t miss the Saint Joseph Church, a unique and modernist church that is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

A regional specialty, the marmite dieppoise , is a seafood stew made with fish, shellfish and vegetables marinated in cream, butter and cider or dry white wine. Bénédictine is a herbal liqueur that is produced in Fécamp, and is made from a secret blend of 27 herbs and spices, resulting in a unique and aromatic drink. Another specialty is the Neufchâtel cheese, a soft, slightly crumbly, white, mould-ripened cheese that is made in the region. 

Less than 30km north is Étretat , a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. It has been a source of inspiration for artists and offers incredible views from its iconic sea arches.

Five times a week a Brittany Ferries crossing from Portsmouth offers you the opportunity to explore Le Havre and its surroundings

Roscoff – Shutterstock

Roscoff has a rich history, and there are several museums and historic sites to explore. The Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon de Roscoff is a museum dedicated to the town’s famous pink onions, while the Musée Maritime de Roscoff explores the area’s maritime history. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the views, or stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat.

Those interested in French gastronomy will love the onions of Roscoff, known for their sweet flavour. Another local specialty is the kouign-amann , a buttery pastry that is similar to a croissant. Or those looking for seafood will enjoy the langoustines and scallops. Be sure to try them at one of the town’s many restaurants, or visit the local market to pick up some fresh seafood to cook at home.

While you’re in Roscoff make sure to take a day trip to nearby towns like Morlaix or Saint-Pol-de-Léon, or hop on a boat to the nearby Île de Batz .

Daily sailings from Plymouth by Brittany Ferries mean that Roscoff is accessible and ideal for a trip of any length

A short trip across the English Channel, and you’re in vibrant towns with sunny skies and fabulous cuisine. When visiting these port towns, be sure to take in the local attractions, sample the local specialties and soak up the unique atmosphere. In travelling by ferry you’ve also got the added benefit of using your own vehicle to explore the surrounding coast and countryside, whether in the family car, a motorbike or camper van. Bon voyage!

Lead photo credit : Take the ferry to Le Havre for a visit to stunning Étretat - Shutterstock

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Hello dear travellers, My name is Neta Gimpel. I've been in the tourism business for 13 years. Currently, I manage relationships with travel suppliers and service providers, including car rentals, insurances, aviation, attractions, hotels, local tour guides, and more. I am also an active travel blogger and tourism specialist. If you're planning a trip and want to ensure a seamless and memorable experience, I invite you to take advantage of my expertise. Whether you're looking for personalized recommendations, exclusive deals, or simply need assistance with your travel arrangements, I'm here to help. Let’s make your travel dreams come true with ease and confidence! Feel free to reach out to me for tailored travel solutions and support. Looking forward to assisting you on your next adventure!

Northern France

Northern France , with its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes, is a destination worth exploring. From the lively city of Lille to the historic charm of Reims, this region offers a diverse array of experiences for travelers. This expert guide provides an in-depth look at the best cities to visit, must-see attractions, weather, the best time to visit, recommended hotels, a detailed 7-day itinerary, and essential travel tips.

Table of Contents

Cities Worth Visiting

Lille is a vibrant, walkable city known for its lively atmosphere, historical landmarks, and bustling nightlife. The old town, Vieux Lille, is a highlight, with its narrow cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and stunning architecture.

Reims, the unofficial capital of France’s Champagne region, is famed for its historic cathedrals, Champagne houses, and culinary delights. This city offers a blend of cultural richness and gastronomic excellence, making it a must-visit destination.

Best Places to Visit

• Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle) : The heart of Lille, this bustling square is surrounded by beautiful Flemish buildings and is a perfect spot for people-watching.
• Vieux Lille : Explore the old town’s charming streets, historic buildings, and unique shops.
• Nightlife Areas : Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino are the city’s nightlife hubs, offering a vibrant scene of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims : A stunning Gothic cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a must-see for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
• Champagne Houses : Tour and taste at renowned Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery.
• Place Drouet d’Erlon : A pedestrian-friendly area known for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.

What Not to Miss

• La Piscine Museum : An art and industry museum located in a former Art Deco swimming pool.
• Lille Zoo : A family-friendly attraction with a variety of animals and educational exhibits.
• Vieille Bourse : The Old Stock Exchange, a beautiful Flemish Renaissance building, often hosts book markets and chess games.
• Palais du Tau : Adjacent to the cathedral, this former archbishop’s palace is now a museum.
• Basilique Saint-Rémi : Another impressive church, known for its Romanesque architecture.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts : A fine arts museum with a rich collection of artworks spanning several centuries.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The north of France experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities.

Where to Stay: Hotels

• Hotel L’Arbre Voyageur – BW Premier Collection : Located at 45 Boulevard Carnot, this hotel offers modern amenities, a stylish design, and excellent service. It’s rated 9.0 and priced from $87.
• Best Western Plus Up Hotel & Bar : Situated at 17 Place Des Reignaux, this hotel combines comfort with convenience. It has a rating of 8.8 and rates start at $78.
• Hôtel de la Paix : Centrally located with modern facilities, this hotel is ideal for exploring Reims. It features comfortable rooms, a bar, and a restaurant.
• Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix : Known for its excellent location and service, this hotel offers stylish accommodations, an indoor pool, and a gourmet restaurant.

7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lille

• Morning : Arrive in Lille and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon : Explore Vieux Lille and visit the Grand Place.
• Evening : Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience Lille’s nightlife.

Day 2: Lille Sightseeing

• Morning : Visit La Piscine Museum.
• Afternoon : Explore the Vieille Bourse and take a stroll in the Lille Zoo.
• Evening : Head to Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino for nightlife.

Day 3: Day Trip to Ypres and Flanders Fields

• Morning : Take a guided tour of the Flanders Fields and Passchendaele.
• Afternoon : Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres.
• Evening : Return to Lille for dinner.

Day 4: Travel to Reims

• Morning : Travel by train from Lille to Reims.
• Afternoon : Check into your hotel and visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims.
• Evening : Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 5: Champagne House Tours

• Morning : Tour the Veuve Clicquot Champagne House.
• Afternoon : Visit Pommery and Taittinger Champagne Houses.
• Evening : Enjoy a relaxing evening with Champagne tasting.

Day 6: Explore Reims

• Morning : Visit the Palais du Tau and Basilique Saint-Rémi.
• Afternoon : Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts and Place Drouet d’Erlon.
• Evening : Experience the local nightlife.

Day 7: Countryside and Vineyards

• Morning : Take a hot air balloon ride over the Champagne vineyards.
• Afternoon : Enjoy a gourmet walk with Champagne tasting near Epernay.
• Evening : Return to Reims for a farewell dinner.

Tips for Tourists

• Language : French is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
• Currency : The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are commonly accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable.
• Public Transport : Both Lille and Reims have efficient public transport systems. Consider purchasing travel passes for convenience.
• Booking in Advance : For popular attractions and Champagne house tours, booking in advance is recommended.
• Dress Code : Dress smart-casual for dining out and Champagne tours. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking tours.

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8 Best Places To Visit In Northern France Near Calais

Kayla D. Martinez

Senior Travel Writer

Kayla D. Martinez is a senior travel writer and a passionate travel enthusiast, whose journey through the world of exploration and storytelling has left an indelible mark on the travel industry. Throughout her career, Kayla has penned countless articles for prestigious travel publications, capturing the essence of cultures, the beauty of landscapes, and the allure of hidden gems. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for uncovering hidden treasures, Kayla has a knack for immersing herself in the local culture of the places she visits, forging connections with locals, and uncovering the untold stories that lie beneath the surface. Her commitment to responsible and sustainable travel practices sets a positive example for her readers and fellow travelers.

Kayla D. Martinez is a senior travel writer and a passionate travel enthusiast, whose journey through the world of exploration and storytelling has left an indelible mark on the travel...

Hello World

If you’re thinking of visiting Calais and exploring Northern France’s rich history and charm, start with Calais as the base location.

First off, visit the Calais Lighthouse and Rodin’s sculpture. Then, discover Dunkirk’s WWII history, Saint-Omer’s Gothic cathedral, and Boulogne-sur-Mer’s aquarium. Relax at Le Touquet-Paris-Plage and explore Montreuil-sur-Mer’s Citadel.

Enjoy Audinghen’s coastal views and Ardres’ tranquil lake. There’s so much more.

In a word, the trip will be full of surprises, charisma, and unforgettable moments.

Cannot wait to begin?

Let’s get started:

Overview of the Must-Visit Places Near Calais, France

Whether you are looking for medieval towns, seaside resorts, Chateaux, or Cathedrals, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in northern France. 

So, let’s have a first look at the best places near Calais:

Northern France is a region of delicious food and diverse influences, with flavors from the sea, the countryside, and neighboring nations. 

So, if you’re in Paris and looking to explore northern France, hop on a weekend trip by train for a graceful experience or drive around France ’s most scenic sides.

Now, let’s get down to the details of these places near Calais:

1. Historic Sites and Port Town of Calais

Famous Spots: Calais Lighthouse | The Burghers of Calais | City of Lace and Fashion

Calais is a vibrant port town brimming with history and charm. Begin your visit with a climb up the Calais Lighthouse for sweeping views of the coastline. 

Discover the poignant history captured by Rodin’s sculpture, The Burghers of Calais, in the town square. Then, enjoy the lace-making history and art in the City of Lace and Fashion Museum on Quai du Commerce Street.

Relax at Calais Beach, where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or even windsurfing. Don’t miss the local seafood, especially fresh mussels, and fish dishes, at the numerous seaside restaurants. For a bit of shopping, you can head to the local markets or the Cité Europe shopping center.

2. The Tranquil & Historic Town of Ardres

Famous Spots: Lake Ardres | Château d’Ardres | Ardres Market & Town Center

Ardres offers a peaceful escape with its amazing beauty and historic charm. At Lake Ardres, you can enjoy boating or a peaceful picnic by the water. 

The Château d’Ardres, a 12th-century medieval castle with beautiful gardens, will amaze you with its architectural beauty.

The Ardres Market is a lively spot to find fresh local produce and unique crafts. You can savor regional specialties like artisanal cheeses and charcuterie in local cafes.

3. The Dramatic Cliffs of Audinghen

Famous Spots: Cap Gris Nez & Cap Blanc Nez | Museum of the Atlantic Wall | St. Peter’s Church

Audinghen is a coastal village known for its dramatic white cliffs in Cap Gris Nez & Cap Blanc Nez with breathtaking views of the English Channel and beautiful coastal paths. The WWII museum is housed in a former German gun battery, offering a unique historical experience. 

Wissant Beach is perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. So, make sure to enjoy local seafood dishes in the village’s cozy eateries, and take in the serene rural landscape that surrounds Audinghen.

4. The Maritime Charm of Boulogne-sur-Mer

Famous Spots: Nausicaá National Sea Centre | Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer | Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne.

Boulogne-sur-Mer blends maritime charm with historical allure. Nausicaä Centre National De La Mer, Europe’s largest aquarium, offers fascinating marine ecosystems.

The stunning medieval Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer, now a museum, was built by the Count of Boulogne in the 13th century.

The architectural beauty of Notre-Dame Basilica, with its impressive dome and serene atmosphere, will take your breath away. Hence, stroll through the old town’s narrow streets, sampling local pastries and seafood dishes in quaint cafes.

The bustling fish market and the scenic seafront promenade offer delightful experiences for visitors.

This is a culinary dreamland for seafood lovers, offering fresh fish, local specialties like moules marinières, creamy mussel soup, and over 300 types of cheese, all complemented by local craft beers and meads.

5. Tranquil Strolls in the Saint-Omer Region

Famous Spots: Saint-Omer Cathedral | Marshlands of Saint-Omer | La Coupole

Saint-Omer, just a 40-minute drive from Calais, is a hidden gem in northern France. The town has a rich history, from its yellow-brick buildings and Gothic cathedral to the Musée de L’Hôtel Sandelin’s art collection. Also, the famous Marshlands are perfect for a boat ride and nature walks.

The UNESCO-listed Marais Audomarois wetlands are another historic wonder, once a French Resistance hideaway. La Maison du Marais offers fascinating insights for outdoor enthusiasts with its boat and bicycle options.

If you want to enjoy a featured 3D planetarium, then you must not miss La Coupole in Wizernes. This is a modern museum, covering the German occupation and space exploration. These were some of the nice places to visit in northern France adjacent to Saint-Omer.

6. The Historical Richness of Dunkirk

Famous Spots: Dunkirk Beach | Dunkirk War Museum | The Belfry of Dunkirk

Dunkirk is one of the best places to visit in northern France near Calais, especially for those who have an interest in history. So, if you’re traveling from Paris, first get to Normandy by train , then take a long drive to Dunkirk.

This is France’s 3rd largest port town and is famous for its 1940 evacuation of Allied troops. During Operation Dynamo, more than 3,38,000 British and French soldiers were rescued from this place.

You can learn about the amazing maritime history in the port museum. However, if you are not interested in history, then you can just relax and admire the cool views from the seaside. Or else enjoy delicious food from nice sea-facing restaurants.

In the Saint-Éloi Belfry of Dunkirk, located in the old town of Dunkirk, you can see the UNESCO World Heritage monuments. The town is always alive with activity, such as the 3-month long Dunkirk Carnival held each year from mid-January to mid-April. It’s a riotous 17th-century fishermen’s celebration, complete with outrageous costumes, colorful parades, and even herring-throwing.

7. The Elegant Atmosphere in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

Famous Spots: Le Touquet Beach | Le Touquet Lighthouse | Aqualud Water Park

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a seaside resort known for its bustling and elegant vibe and chic resorts. The beautiful Le Touquet Beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, or windsurfing as you please. You can also climb the Le Touquet Lighthouse for stunning views of the coastline and town. 

For family fun, visit Aqualud Water Park, featuring exciting water rides and pools. The gourmet dining at the town’s upscale restaurants serves fresh seafood and fine French cuisine that will linger on your tongue.

8. The Historic Ramparts of Montreuil-sur-Mer

Famous Spots: Citadel of Montreuil | Ramparts of Montreuil | St. Saulve Abbey Church

Montreuil-sur-Mer is a lovely town with a rich historical heritage. The Citadel of Montreuil, with its well-preserved fortress walls, offers a journey back in time. Walk along the town’s ancient ramparts for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 

The St. Saulve Abbey Church, with its beautiful architecture, is a must-see. Apart from that, savor traditional French dishes, such as escargot and duck confit, in the town’s charming restaurants. The quaint streets, historic buildings, and friendly atmosphere make Montreuil-sur-Mer a delightful destination.

Tips for Your Northern France Adventure

• Try to avoid the peak seasons and plan your trip during the shoulder seasons [May/June and September/October] for the best deals . During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, but also less busy and cheaper.
• To get good deals on tickets and hotels, try to make all the necessary bookings and reservations in advance – preferably 3 months before departure. 
• Learn some basic French words and phrases. Greet people with bonjour (hello), merci (thank you), s’il vous plaît (please), and dress appropriately for the occasion.
• Be aware of the dining culture and etiquette of the French. Like, make a reservation in advance, wait for the waiter to seat you, and don’t expect to get the bill until you ask for it.
• Lastly, always carry your necessary documents and things with you. Such as a map of northern France, emergency medicines, umbrellas, etc.

For transportation:

• You can use the Train/Metro for an efficient transport network, as it connects Calais with nearby towns.
• Next, there is the rental cars to drive around France’s northern scenic routes at your own pace with flexibility. 
• Bicycles are great for coastal and countryside exploration. There are bike rental shops and marked cycling paths available.
• Lastly, you can also use the bus services for budget-friendly options. It’s also good for reaching smaller towns and rural areas.

Closing Notes

I hope by now you know about these wonderful places to visit in northern France near Calais.

Traveling across France’s stunning landscapes is like entering a storybook full of amazing villages, historic wonders, and the smells of freshly cooked cuisines. For no big reason, northern France is often overlooked.

So, what are you still waiting for? Pack your bags, set forth on a journey of discovery, and let Northern France weave its magic around you.

Happy Travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the prettiest village in northern France?

The prettiest village in Northern France is Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. Visitors can also enjoy wandering through its cobbled streets, exploring medieval ramparts, and admiring the Gothic church.

Where to stop near Calais?

Lille, Arras, Boulogne-sur-Mer, Saint-Omer, etc are some of the places that you can stop near Calais.

Is Northern France worth visiting?

Of course. In fact, it’s like a dreamland for the visitors.

How long is the journey from Calais to the Dover ferry?

It will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the Dover ferry from Calais.

Where to go 3 hours from Calais?

There are a lot of places to go within 3 hours from Calais. For instance, Normandy, Compiègne, and Metz.

Which are the best places to stay near Calais?

Well, it greatly depends on some factors like which facilities you prefer and how much you are willing to pay. To find a suitable one, you can get help from The Hotel Guru.

Why is Calais famous?

Apart from being known as a transport hub, Calais is famous for its important fishing port and a fish marketing center. Also, Calais has a wide reputation for its lace industry, employing around 3,000 people in this traditional craft.

Best Way to Get from Paris to Bordeaux

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An epic Northern France road trip Normandy, Brittany, Hauts de France itinerary

Northern France tends to be rather unknown by North American tourists, most will come to France to see Paris or the WWII memorials on the Normandy beaches or perhaps the lavender fields of Provence.

The British and Europeans know many of the secrets of north France but for many non-Europeans, it is not a traditional vacation but once you visit the towns of Northern France you will find it hard not to fall in love with the area. The northern region of France has much to offer from its incredibly rich natural forests and parks to its outstanding historical heritage.

If you are a first-time visitor to France remember to plan your visit carefully you can get carried away trying to visit all the places you have read about. From ancient medieval villages like Dinan and great historic works of art like the Bayeux Tapestry, northern France has a lot to see and do.

Northern France encompasses the regions of Hauts de France, Normandy, and Brittany. Where I’m based these days housesitting is right on the border of Normandy and Brittany in the Mayenne so I get to scope out all the best things to see in this region. With a little help from my travel writer friends, we have picked out some of the best places to visit in Northern France.

Let the road trip of north France begin and here are our picks of the best places in Northern France and my personal northern France highlights.

Planning your road trip to Northern France map

Your ultimate road trip itinerary for northern france, getting to the hauts de france, cap gris nez and cap blanc nez, château de pierrefonds, battle of the somme, getting to normandy, mont st. michel, normandy beaches, getting to brittany,  st. malo, fougères , vitré, côte de granit rose  .

Hauts de France

The Hauts-de-France region is located in the most northern region of France to the north of Paris. This area is also the closest to England and much of it is along the border of Belgium.

There is much to see in the northern area of France from Amiens along the white sand beaches and chalk cliffs similar to Dover all along what is called the Opal Coast of France. The Bay of Somme is a birdwatcher’s paradise, this area (if you remember your history) was the side of some brutal WWI battles and is home to several major monuments and military cemeteries.

This region was of paramount importance during the first world war. Most Canadians learned of Vimy Ridge in their history classes. Its capture was essential to the advances by the British Third Army to the south and of exceptional importance to checking the German attacks in the area in 1918.

Hauts-de-France has six Gothic cathedrals and 23 belfries that are on the UNESCO World Heritage list throughout the region. Don’t forget to make a stop in Lille, Amiens, Beauvais and Dunkirk, Check out the castles at Chantilly, Compiegne and Pierrefonds and the incredible medieval towns and villages along your route.

The Hauts de France region is about a 2-hour drive from Paris but you can get there by train easily from Paris from the Gare du Nord station. Driving is easy either from Paris or if you get to France by Ferry you may arrive in Calais via boat from Dover. There are also ferries from Dover to Dunkirk.

The best places to visit in the Hauts de France

The garden of Monet in Giverny is amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Northern France! Claude Monet, the famous French impressionist painter, lived with his family in a beautiful house in the little town of Giverny in Normandy from 1883. Over the years he created a garden around it that will become a real piece of art and an important source of inspiration for his work.

Having seen the beauty of Monet’s paintings, Giverny has always been on my bucket list! I visited it during the summer of 2020 and it didn’t disappoint! I totally understand why it’s the second most popular tourist site in Normandy (after Mont-Saint-Michel). The garden is enchanting and full of flowers: it was even more beautiful than in my imagination!

Monet’s garden is divided into two parts. The first one, in front of the house, is the “Clos Normand”. The Clos Normand is a flower garden of around 1 hectare. The main alley leading to the house is especially picturesque with its metallic arches covered and lined with flowers. The second part is the “Japanese garden”, a water garden located on the other side of the road. Some water lilies are blooming on the pond in summer: a feast for the eyes! This is what inspired the iconic “Nymphéas”.

You can also visit the house of Claude Monet. I was pleasantly surprised by the colours of the place! The house is furnished and full of objects from the time Monet was living here. Once you have visited the house, you can walk around the charming village of Giverny and visit the pretty neighbouring town of Vernon. Le Bistrot des Fleurs is a great traditional French bistro in Vernon. Address: 73 Rue Sadi Carnot. Recommended by Ophelie of Limitlesssecrets.

One of the most beautiful cities in northern France is the picturesque Metz. This lovely city is located in the northeast of the country, close to the border with Germany and Luxembourg. It is well worth a visit, as you will have the opportunity to explore many magnificent sights and places. The charming old town of Metz, the wonderful gardens, the beautiful location on the Moselle and of course the excellent French restaurants and patisseries are just some of the top attractions you will experience on a city trip

The city is beautifully situated directly on the Moselle River, where a bridge connects to the island of Saulcy. Here you will discover beautiful 18th-century buildings and enjoy an authentic French ambience. Especially in the summer months, tourists and locals alike stroll along the riverbank, have a picnic or take a romantic boat trip on the beautiful river.

One of the best things to do in Metz is a visit to the cathedral. It is the main attraction and one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic churches in France. Exploring the cathedral of Metz – Saint-Étienne is also worthwhile from the inside, where you can discover many art treasures. 

For a leisurely break, you should visit Place Saint-Jacques, which is known by locals and tourists for its many nice cafés and restaurants. Here you can enjoy delicious coffee with a grand view of the hustle and bustle. 

All in all, the city of Metz is really something special. It has a lot of historical charm, a long history and is definitely one of the most beautiful cities to visit in France! Recommended by PlacesofJuma

Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez are two magnificent places where you can really enjoy the vastness of the landscape in Northern France. These two viewpoints located close to Calais and Boulogne-sur-Mer are one of the only places where you can actually see Great Britain in the distance, only when there’s a clear sky of course.

What I believe makes these locations so unique is not only the view but also the enormous limestone cliffs! At Cap Blanc-Nez there’s even a beach where you can enjoy the sunny weather as well. Although the weather here might be less warm than in the South of France, the region is definitely as beautiful! I’m sure you’ll be blown away by the beauty of these landscapes!

At both Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez you’ll have plenty of parking spots to park your car. The region is also perfect to discover by motorbike as the landscape and little roads are wonderful. Hiking is another beloved activity and the small villages you’ll encounter on your way will for sure charm you. Both viewpoints are carefully maintained and attract many tourists, in particular in summer. If you want to have these places all to yourself, I recommend going off-season, when there’s less of a crowd.

If you have plenty of time, it is also worthwhile to visit the nearby Boulogne-sur-Mer for its wonderful aquarium Nausicaa. After seeing the vastness of the sea from the two viewpoints, it’s a great experience to discover what lives under the sea as well! Contributed by Emma of Emma’s Road Map .

The Château de Pierrefonds is a stunning castle in the Pierrefonds commune of France and carries the historical remnants of a Middle-Age defensive architectural structure. The village itself is nestled on the edge of the Forest of Compiegne, and home to a beautiful lake where you can hire a pedalo boat, a charming town square, and a heartfelt memorial at the Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville to remember the nurses who died during WWI.

There is also the impressive Church of Saint-Sulpice, a beautiful 11th-century church that was reconstructed in the 13th century to showcase some gothic elements. Meanwhile, the upper belltower carries traces of Renaissance architecture. Exploring the different parts of the church, I could almost imagine myself exploring through these different time periods.

Of course, the beating heart of Pierrefonds is none other than the Château de Pierrefonds. I truly feel that it’s among the most impressive castles in all of Picardy. With imposing spires and towers, its history is a fascinating one spanning from the 12th century to Napoléon III’s time in the late 1800s.

I really enjoyed exploring the huge salons, donjon, and chapel, as well as walking around the gorgeous parapet, where a view of the lake and village awaits. More interestingly, the castle has been used as a film set for many popular movies and series, including the recent Merlin show.

Pierrefonds is also very close to Paris and an excellent destination to add to your trip to the capital. Hop on the hourly train from Gare du Nord, then catch the bus from Compiègne to Pierrefonds. Or you can simply drive there in less than an hour! Recommended by Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

I’m sure you have heard of Chantilly lace a song by the Big Bopper in the 1950s, well Chantilly lace is a real thing and has decorated many a wedding gown. You can tour the Musée de la Dentelle (Museum of Lace) where you can see demonstrations of this famous lace being created and a history of who wore it when.

Chantilly is also the birthplace of Chantilly Cream which the myth says was created by the chef Vatel for a party for the Duc de Condé, and his cousin Louis XIV at the Chateau de Chantilly.  However, the truth is that the recipe for whipped frothy cream goes back much further, but it became known as Chantilly for being served to the King.

Château de Chantilly is one of the most beautiful castles near Paris built in the 16th century for the House of Montmorency and later owned by the princes of Condé, cousins of the King of France. The château has a beautiful library and an important collection of French artwork. The surrounding gardens were designed by Le Notre, who also created the gardens at Versailles.

The Prince of Condé was horse mad and in the 17th century, he had Les Grandes Ecuries (the Grand Stables) built. Since that time Chantilly has become renowned for being home to the largest horse racing and training facility in France. Les Grandes Écuries hosts the Horse Museum and also a prestigious centre of dressage.

The Castle of Pierrefonds is situated on the southeast edge of the Forest of Compiègne. It was built in the 14th century, by Louis d’Orléans, the brother of Charles VI, but in the 17th century is was destroyed and forgotten until Napoléon I bought it and it was Napoléon III who appointed the Architect Viollet-le-Duc for its restoration.

Sadly, Hauts-de-France also hosts a large number of battlefields, war cemeteries and memorials of WWI and WWI. During the First World War, the Battle of the Somme lasted four and a half months during which more than one million men and women lost their lives.

The Armistice which marked the end of the First World War was signed in the Forest of Compiègne, and you can visit the railway carriage where the armistice was signed. There is a Remembrance Trail, which is a walking route linking Albert and Péronne which takes you through the footsteps of the men of WWI through the battlefields and cemeteries and the memorials that mark their sacrifices on the Western Front.

When I lived in England (yes many years ago) shopping in Calais was the perfect day out and we would come home loaded with French wine, cheese, bread and other items we couldn’t find in London and the journey only took around 2 hours.

Calais has a fabulous beach that many French holidays at as an escape from Paris. Make sure you check out the gorgeous architecture of the Town Hall and its belfry it is a mix of Neo-Renaissance and Flemish styles and was constructed in 1911. The Halls bell tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This is where Charles De Gaulle was married in the building’s wedding hall back in 1921 in a civil ceremony. You will also spot a Rodin statue in front of the Town Hall

The statue commemorates Les Bourgeois de Calais (the Burghers of Calais, six brave men of the city who in 1347 offered themselves as hostages to the English, who were besieging the city, to spare the townspeople from a massacre. In the event, their lives were spared by the English king Edward III after the intervention of his wife Philippa of Hainault.  

Things to do in Northern France – Normandy

Normandy is a charming region just north of Paris. It’s both a rural and seaside area famous for producing excellent cheeses, apple and pear cider, and seafood, such as scallops, mussels, and oysters. The quality of the cuisine of Normandy makes it a must-visit area if you’re a foodie.

Normandy is of course where many tourists come to see the WWII battlefields, the Beaches of Normandy and the memorials. You will also travel through several smaller Northern France towns with many a memorial to Liberation Day in 1945. The North of France bears many scars from WWII and many villages will have central village squares which commemorate the liberation. The small village I am near has named the central square the Place du Mai which commemorates the liberation of Lassay les Chateaux on that date in 1945.

You can get to Normandy via ferry from several ports in the UK or Ireland and there are domestic flight airports. If you are coming from the USA, Canada or further away you are probably going to come to Paris. From Paris, you can take a train, bus or rent a car to see Normandy.

Places you should visit in Normandy

Bayeaux is a must-visit for those captivated by history. A chance to see the great Bayeaux Tapestry which hangs in the Bayeaux Museum is a bucket list stop for me. This incredible 70-metre long work of art tells the story of William the Conqueror , Duke of Normandy and the Battle of 1066 when he became King of England

While it is possible that the Tapestry was designed by men the work would all have been carried out by the superb women embroiders at the time. Only women did this kind of work and the Tapestry was made in England and paints a point of view from the French or rather the winning side in that eponymous battle

Cathédrale Notre Dame is a spectacular Gothic cathedral dating from the 13th century although the crypt there dates back to the 11th century. It has some stunning stained-glass windows that commemorate the sacrifice of the allied forces during the World Wars. You can also visit many of the WWII landing sites, memorials and cemeteries that can be found around Bayeaux.

The Port of Honfleur couldn’t be any prettier. The brightly coloured half-timbered buildings along the quays are full of restaurants, cafes, art galleries and speciality shops Honefleur literally sparkles.

Honfleur is also the port from which Champlain sailed on his voyage to discover Canada and found Quebec. Champlain set up a very lucrative trade for the shipping barons of Honfleur which included cod fishing off the coast of Newfoundland.  

Honfleur is extremely proud of its Impressionist roots – Claude Monet’s mentor Eugène Boudin was born in the town, and Monet and his fellow painters would often set up their easels at the Ferme Saint-Siméon on the hill above Honfleur, to capture the beautiful light of the Seine estuary. 

A visit to Northern France is not complete without seeing Rouen , the largest city in the Normandy region and located on the banks of the Seine river. The city is historic and the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake also has cultural treasures to visit like the historic city centre. You can easily walk around the historic district and find lots of wonderful architectural sites in the city centre.

This includes ornate buildings like the main cathedral, public square and treasures like the Musee de Beaux-Arts, Eglise Saint Maciou, Abbey Saint-Ouen, the Renaissance clock, Palais de Justice, the many pedestrian streets and even the gorgeous gardens around Rouen. If shopping and dining is your thing then it is easy to wander around the historic district with fabulous shopping and dining venues in the city to explore and enjoy the many promenades in town.

You can actually do an easy day trip to Rouen by train from Paris or an overnight stay. If you want to explore more of the city and region and away from the crowds and noise of Paris, then a longer visit to explore the wonderful streets, architecture and other historic treasures and museums make this a worthwhile visit in the Normandy region of France. You can reach Rouen by car in about two hours and slightly longer by train so either a day trip or longer stay to visit other towns and landscapes in Normandy makes it an easy getaway from the Paris bustle and tourist crowds. Contributed by Noel of Oahu Travel Now .

Mont St Michel is one of those iconic places that tourists to Northern France put on their bucket lists. Mont Saint-Michel is not a castle but it certainly arises out of the sea as if it was.

Mont Saint Michel is located on a small island just off the coast of Normandy and is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Mont St Michel is not a castle it is a medieval Abbey and village constructed over 1300 years on a tiny island surrounded by the sea.

Located on the coast of Lower Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel is in the Manche département, Normandy region. Approximately 41 miles (66 km) north of Rennes and 32 miles (52 km) east of Saint-Malo and around 4 hours from Paris. When you first catch sight of the Mont you will spot ramparts that circle the island and a 3 tiered assembly of buildings from the 13th century known as La Merveille (The Wonder) that rise up to the abbey’s pointed spire.

Only 350 or so steps to reach the Abbey and when you get there the entry ticket will cost €10 euros.

Before the world closed down Normandy was one of the most visited places in France during the month of June. Naturally, most tourists divided their time between a visit to Paris and other locations such as Provence but many American tourists specifically come to France to pay their respects to family members who fought and those who died on the Normandy Beaches during WWII.

D-Day and the Battle of Normandy were predominantly fought in the areas of Calvados, Manche and Orne, and it is here that you will find the many memorials, cemeteries and museums that commemorate what happened.

The D-Day Landing Beaches extend over 70km from Sainte-Marie-du-Mont to Ouistreham, via Colleville-sur-Mer and Arromanches-les-Bains. 

A wonderful location that’s a must-see in Normandy is Etretat. This picturesque location is a place I visited with my boyfriend during a Spring road trip and it was the highlight of the whole trip! 

Etretat is famously known for the pretty white cliffs that make up the 130km long Alabaster Coast from Dieppe to Le Harve. These white cliffs can be explored from above along the walking routes, else head down to the pebbled beach to see them from below. If exploring from below, climb through the cave if you dare, allowing you to reach the other side and explore with fewer people.

We did this in time for sunset which we loved being below the cliffs during sunset, which made the location very romantic! Just keep in mind and check the tides of the sea, as it’s possible you can get stuck here during high tide!

The town of Etretat is also lovely, with some delicious restaurants selling local fish dishes as well as popular typical places selling pizzas, chicken and pasta dishes. There are many local boutiques to shop from when not eating, whether you want a souvenir or something cute for yourself. I didn’t buy anything myself, but sure did eat lots of delicious food here! 

Our recommendation for a place to stay is Hotel Dormy House. It’s perfect for those visiting by car and only a 10minute walk from the town centre of Etretat. They have panoramic views with the cliffs and the little Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde church at the top. Contributed by Zoe of Together in Transit.

While it is quite famous amongst the french, Deauville is still relatively off the beaten path for the average tourist in France (but it shouldn’t be). Located on the coast of Normandy, Deauville is a very popular beach town/resort for the rich and famous. If you are looking to spot French celebrities then this is the place to go. Not only is it the place to be seen during a weekend getaway from Paris, but Deauville is also one of the nicest beaches you will find in Northern France. I like to call it Paris’ Riviera.

I somewhat accidentally discovered this beautiful place when I was invited by a friend of a friend to come along and I am so glad I did! Deauville is all about relaxing in style. The main things to do here are to get dressed up and head to a casino, be trackside at a horse race, go shopping at the designer boutiques lining the streets, eat some amazing food and of course, make sure to enjoy the beach itself. If you are feeling a little more active I recommend renting a bike and exploring the whole harbour on two wheels. It’s perfect for a warm summer afternoon!

While you are experiencing the glamorous life of the upper-class Parisians, you have to try some Mussels! A lot of restaurants sell them but you can’t get more authentic than trying some at the Hippodrome Deauville La Touques or simply along the beach. We also ate at Cocotte Cafe which had some delicious options to satisfy my appetite after a long day of relaxing. Recommended by Yulia from Miss Tourist.

Things to do in Northern France – Brittany

La Bretagne (which is Brittany in English) is one of the most visited Northern France regions complete with deep secretive forests, historical cities, rich culture, fabulous food and imbued with Celtic legends. Located in North-Western France Brittany is an immensely popular destination for both British visitors and where many ex-pats move to live in France.

Brittany’s landscape is dotted with picturesque medieval villages , and Disneyesque fairy tale chateaus all set in verdant green landscapes. The views range from stunning craggy coastlines to sweet white sandy beaches and pristine forests.

A land of Celtic myths and legends the area has a fascinating history entwined with Celtic groups from Cornwall , Wales and of course the Breton culture of Canada.

The Brittany region offers endless sightseeing opportunities and authentic local experiences. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and best places to visit in Brittany.

You can get to Brittany by plane and the two major airports are Brest and Rennes. Flights come into these airports from London, Manchester, Dublin, Southampton, Manchester, or Exeter.

From London, visitors from the UK can get to the Gare du Nord in 2 hours 20 minutes by Eurostar. Then, to continue their journey, Brittany has an excellent rail high-speed rail service from Parison the TGV Atlantique train.

Brittany is well connected with the UK and Ireland through the ports of Roscoff and St-Malo. The ferry companies serving these destinations are Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries.

Rennes in Northern France was a must-visit for me as I wanted to wander the ancient streets with all those glorious coloured half-timbered houses. Known as a city of heritage and art its historic centre has preserved its classical and medieval heritage with over 90 protected buildings. 

Place Ste. Anne is the very heart of the old town of Rennes and a favourite spot for photographers and Instagram influencers the medieval centre around the Place Ste-Anne holds around 286 incredible coloured half-timbered buildings. In 1720 there was a fire that burnt down most of the city but this area of cobbled streets and crooked houses was re-built.

Off the Place Sainte-Anne, you will see the rue Saint-Michel which is nicknamed the Road of Thirst because there are dozens of bars all along the street which are frequented by the many students who make their home in Rennes. On the Rue Saint-Michel, you will note there is a bar every 7 metres which is a French record. A small cobbled street that has existed since the Middle ages it is home to 13 bars and the place to hang out in the evening in Rennes. 

In Rennes, you will find everything from fabulous museums, opera and theatre along with gorgeous parks, amazing architecture and medieval history. Oh, and the food of Brittany is served to perfection here in Rennes.

St. Malo dates back to the 1 st  century B.C. under Roman control, taking its name from a 6 th- century abbey, and the inhabitants even considered themselves “Malouines” rather than Bretons. Long sandy beaches sweep east from the old town to the district of Rothéneuf. Here you’ll find the former house of one of St Malo’s most famous sons, Jacques Cartier, who discovered Canada and the 15th-century Manoir de Limoëlou house a fascinating museum dedicated to the explorer.

The city’s pirates wreaked havoc on shipping in the 18th and 19th centuries. The town was made an Asylum town in the 12th century, making it the perfect safe haven for pirates and privateers. They lived like gentlemen in the town but ranged the seas and oceans robbing and raiding.

In 1944 the Allies all but bombed the walled city into rubble. The result was that Saint-Malo has been rebuilt in bits and pieces, with some reconstructed timbered structures alongside faux-Neoclassic and modern architecture. You can walk around the walls of the city and definitely visit the 12th-century Cathedral of St. Vincent (whose 15th-century steeple was destroyed in 1944 by Allied bombing and took three decades to restore).

Fougères owes its origin to its imposing castle, installed over a thousand years ago on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the waters of the Nançon river which served as a natural moat.

The town falls into two distinct halves, with the Chateau de Fougeres and the Medieval Quarter being in the lower town and quite high above is the upper town which has been largely rebuilt following a fire in the 18th century.

The medieval old town sprung up to the south of the castle around the River Nançon whose waters were used by the cloth-makers, dyers and tanners; tanning was a by-product of cattle breeding, which was a major industry in the surrounding area. The prettiest and most atmospheric part of the old town is Place du Marchix, which is lined with half-timbered houses.

These days the main part of Fougères is the upper town, which overlooks the castle. On the main shopping street, Rue Nationale, you’ll see a 14th-century belfry, which is the oldest one in Brittany. The Belfry  of Fougères is the first to be built in Brittany, in 1397.

At the far end of this street is St Léonard’s church whose bell tower is open to the public in summer and offers fabulous views over the castle and surrounding area; at other times of the year, the views from the adjacent gardens are almost as good. You can also see the stunning Theatre Victor Hugo whose Belle Epoque architecture looks like a wedding cake.

Vitré has it all 15th and 16th-century half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, medieval gates, stone cottages built into the slopes and a fairytale castle.  Dating from the 13 th century the castle has pointed turrets and these days houses a museum where you can learn about the history of the area and admire a collection of 19th-century curiosities.

Vitré’s most famous resident was Mme de Sévigné, known for her letter-writing, who spent a lot of time at the Château des Rochers-Sévigné on the outskirts of town when not in Paris. The manor now houses a museum, which displays objects from her life, and don’t forget to explore the superb garden designed by Le Nôtre, the man who created the gardens at Versailles.

One of the most beautiful places in Brittany in the North of France is the Côte de Granit Rose or the Pink Granite Coast. It is a remarkable area filled with pink sand and rock formations. 

The Côte de Granit Rose extends for more than 20 kilometers from Plestin-les-Grèves to Louannec. The best way to appreciate these unique pink rock formations is to hike by the coast. 

There are several trails along the coast, but the best place to hike the Côte de Granit Rose and where we opted to hike is in the Côtes-d’Armor in the Perros-Guirec Municipality. 

This is an easy 5km hike passing through beautiful landscapes sculpted by erosion. Along the trail, there are several charming beaches like Plage de la Bastille and La Plage Saint Guirec. Plus a cute lighthouse, Phare de Men Ruz, which was our favourite part of the trail. Along the way, there are several spots to grab a bite or have a picnic.

The area of the Côte de Granit Rose also has great beaches to sunbathe with unique pink sand. We recommend two famous beaches Plage Trestraou and Plage Trestrignel. By Cláudia & Jorge From Travel drafts

Mention Cancale to any foodie and they will immediately think oysters. Famed for its breathtaking views over the Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel Cancale produces over 15,000 tons of oysters a year. At La Ferme Marine which is a family-run business, you can visit an exhibition of shellfish and see the oyster farmers at work.

Surrounding Cancale’s port La Houle you can try the king of shellfish literally pulled just from the sea and eat watching the waves. Book a cooking lesson at the Culinary School of Olivier Roellinger a retired 3 Michelin starred Chef.

You will also find some great walks along Brittany’s coast and some fabulous beaches.

Dinan is an incredibly well preserved medieval town set on the River Dance and it managed to escape much of the damage caused by WWII. Many of its buildings date back over 700 years.

A wonderful town for a stroll you can take a long walk around the ramparts and enjoy the narrow streets filled with the wonky half-timbered buildings on the Place des Merciers.

Plenty of outdoor cafes with terraces can be enjoyed for food and drink. The Old Quarter Clock tower provides amazing views if you can take the 158 stairs up. There is a Rail Museum for those who love model trains. If you are in town on a Thursday go and enjoy the outdoor market which has been here for hundreds of years at Place Duguesclin.

Dinard is a seaside resort on the Emerald Coast and is famous for its Belle Époque architecture and over 407 listed villas. A favourite beachside holiday for the British in the 19 th century and today Dinard is famous for its mild climate and beautiful beaches.

There are beautiful walks along the bottom of the cliffs or you can stroll like the Victorians taking the sea air along the Promenade au Clair-de-lune to admire those incredible villas.

Saint Pabu is a small town located in the north of France close to the city of Best. You can reach St Pabu in around 30 minutes from Brest so it’s a great day-trip destination. You can definitely spend a few weeks here if you have time because there’s a lot to see and do in the area.

St Pabu is small and only has around 2000 permanent inhabitants. However, because it’s so quiet you won’t have to worry about tourist crowds. St Pabu is authentic and the perfect place to get to know the real Brittany. Try some authentic dishes from the area such as the Gateau Breton or the delicious cider that is produced in the area. 

St Pabu sits right by the ocean and is known for having one of the best beaches in the area. If you haven’t visited northern France you’ll be surprised how incredible the beaches here look. They almost seem like they should be located in the Maldives so to say that this is an underrated tourist destination is an understatement. However, the water is quite cold so make sure to visit during the summer if you plan to go for a swim. You can also enjoy water sports such as kite or windsurfing and paddleboarding. 

St Pabu hosts a weekly market where you can shop for fresh produce and local products. During the summer, sometimes little town festivals with live music and lots of delicious food to try. Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel.

These 23 beautiful places to visit in Northern France is a mere handful of sites you may want to see. The North of France is incredibly beautiful and you could spend years exploring the entire area of Normandy, Brittany and the Hauts de France areas.

What part of northern France have you been to and where would you love to visit again?

Want to read more about France?

French Cheese – 23 amazing types of French cheese

Exploring the beautiful Mayenne – Pays de la Loire, France

French Food Culture: The Ultimate Guide

Best food markets in Europe

Beautiful villages in Normandy

14 Fabulous French Castles to visit

Amboise France

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Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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France isn’t a country that has incredible cities and towns in short supply. In fact, it’s almost unheard of for anyone to come back from France, especially North Western France, without being well and truly blown away!

But there’s a lot to be gained from straying a little further than the usual tourist trail. Paris is fantastic and Bordeaux is incredibly beautiful (this is a great travel guide to Bordeaux ), but it’s not until you discover a hidden gem that you understand just how quaint and picturesque the north of France can really be.

Being such a short distance from the UK, and with regular cross channel ferry services from Brittany Ferries, it’s easy to see the attraction of Northern France. So whether you’re considering a short break or an extended holiday, consider one of the following towns; you may not have realized this side of France even existed!

Pro tip:  Stay connected throughout France with a TEP Wireless device;  portable wifi in France  is the best way to enjoy unlimited internet (on up to 5 devices at a time)  without having to rely on local SIMs or unsecure public hotspots. 

10 Picturesque Towns In North Western France to Explore (Brittany Region)

Slowly but surely, the reputation of Ars-en-Ré is beginning to spread and it really isn’t going to be much of a secret for a great deal longer.

An absolutely gorgeous little town where bicycles are the order of the day, it’s a picture-perfect French seaside town that looks and feels absolutely nothing like anywhere else you’ve ever been.

It used to be an important trading spot for sailors many centuries ago, but today represents a dreamy weekend and summer holiday destination for those well and truly in the know.

Boasting a variety of buildings and cobbled streets which in many cases haven’t been touched in over eight centuries, Dinan presents visitors with an unspoiled snapshot of the region’s past.

There is absolutely no more satisfying way of spending a day here than aimlessly wandering the streets, finding a charming café terrace at which to take a seat and simply watching the world go by!

Photo credit:  Peter  via Flickr .

The blink-and-you’ll-miss-it village of Domfront represents the perfect base for a trip of deep exploration around the surrounding countryside.

Lose yourself (not literally!) in Andaines Forest, stroll around the Charles Leander Museum   and leave as much time as necessary to lap up the local delicacies back in town. There are also some amazing horse riding opportunities nearby, if you’re into the equestrian way of life!

A picture postcard shot of Brittany at its finest, Locronan is considered by locals and travellers alike to be a front runner for the most stunning village in the country. It’s another prime example of a place that has been beautifully preserved and spared the trappings of the modern age.

Though generally something of a day-trip location, book yourself into one of the charming local guest houses for an extended stay and chances are you’ll see why local pride really is on another level.

Getting there: Brittany Ferries run regular ferries from Plymouth to Roscoff – only 60 miles from Locronan.

Photos (from top) by  Peter Stenzel  &  verrier.claude

Flanked by a stunning ancient forest and with a truly enchanting waterfront setting, Paimpont represents a truly delightful daytrip for the whole family.

Legend has it that the forest of Brocéliande was once the home of Merlin the Wizard and King Arthur ; a true land of fantasy and mystery.

Each of the seasons brings something uniquely stunning to the landscape of Paimpont, though for obvious reasons it is best enjoyed in the warmer months of the spring and summer.

Rochefort-en-Terre

No longer a matter of personal opinion, Rochefort-en-Terre has won the official accolade of being declared one of the most stunning villages in the whole of France.

The town’s tradition of prominently and lavishly displaying flowers at all times dates back to the turn of the 20th century and is still vigorously followed to this day. The combination of medieval architecture and stunning floral displays paints a picture that is simply breathtaking.

More information: The official tourist website of Rochefort-en-Terre has more information on where to sleep, eat, and things to do. In the top right hand corner is a button to read in English. 

Photos by  Peter Stenzel

Famed the world over for its prehistoric aligned megaliths which are thought to date back to the same kind of era as Stonehenge, you really don’t have to be a history buff to get a real kick out of Carnac.

The whole place has an unmistaken air of mystery and history in equal measures, while the Quiberon Bay seaside resort promises more family fun than you’ll ever need while in town.

Roscoff is a simply stunning little French seaside town that occupies a prime plot on the Morlaix Bay peninsular, and another town on this list which is easily accessed via the ferry. Brittany Ferries run ferries direct from Plymouth into Roscoff .

Known across the country as one of the most distinct and character-filled villages in France, it is an absolute hit with locals and knowledgeable international visitors alike.

There’s a lovely harbour, fabulous beaches and a perfectly preserved old town centre with many buildings that haven’t changed in over 400 years. Taking the relaxing boat ride to the nearby Île de Batz is also highly recommended.

Photo credits from top:  Kevin Grandjean ,  Jeanne Menjoulet  &  Guillaume .

Charming, charming and charming once again…that’s really the only realistic way of describing Auray!

It’s the quintessential picture postcard snapshot of a wonderfully traditional way of living, with cobbled streets and the historic port bringing to life generations of local history.

Auray also has a reputation for being home to some of the most decadent dining in the region and there’s even an annual oyster festival, which is definitely worth stopping by for!

A place that has been inspiring artists for generations (and it’s not exactly difficult to see why), Pont-Aven is a fantastically pretty and vibrant town in which to spend a day or two.

Things really burst into life in August in particular, where the famed flower festival sees these already stunning streets transformed into a scene fresh from the pages of a fairy tale!

Pont-Aven is tiny enough to be explored in an afternoon, though is more than worth considering spending a night or two soaking up.

OUR FAVORITE FRANCE GUIDES. CLICK PHOTO TO LOOK INSIDE ↓

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind  Waking Up Wild ; a website dedicated to opening your eyes to the wild & natural world.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

If you enjoy getting social, you can follow their journey on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  YouTube ,  Pinterest  and  Instagram .

29 Comments

Every place looks gorgeous Meg. I house sat for a guy who then did a house sit in farm country, France style. He raved about the place. As for bicycles being a hit in one town; I am in. I could easily bike around without driving a bit and it gets ya here to there faster compared to using my own 2 feet. Lovely list.

So glad you enjoyed the post Ryan – I would LOVE to do a house-sit in this region! Yes, bicycles are actually a hit in the North in general, it’s a really great way to get around, and totally adds to the atmosphere of the experience!

Amazing pictures! Amazing places to visit! Thank you for this glimpse into this wonderful journey an thanks for the tips!

Thanks Fernanda! I hope you have the chance to visit the North of France at some stage soon!

This is an article on Brittany or La Bretagne. Title Northern France is misleading. When one mentions Northern France it is Lille Roubaix Tourcoing, Thieriarche, etc. Not towns in Brittany. I am not being fastidious I live here.

Thanks for sharing your feedback :) We still consider Brittany to be part of Northern France, even though it may not be as North as towns like Lille (which is a fabulous town also, I really loved my time there :)

Have a great weekend!

I agree, and found this disappointing and unhelpful. I will arrive in Calais and was hoping for tips about places in Northern France that I might not know. Normandy is full of pretty places and we wondered whether we had missed others on our way there.

I was reading about As en Rae then discovered it’ s near Bordeux, nowhere near Northern France, this I agree for a professional blogger is tres annoying

I have adjusted the title to clarify that the towns mentioned are north western, and provide further geographical clarity beyond simply saying the north. Thanks for the feedback :)

Those pictures are gorgeous! And each place looks like it would make for a great day’s walk around or a charming week’s stay.

GLad you enjoyed the post Jeanine! Absolutely – it’s like stepping into a fairytale when wandering through these towns!

The pictures are gorgeous. They remind me so much of the Cotswolds in the UK! I looked at the map and took a long time to find these towns. Actually, I only found Roscoff and Dinan and they are in Bretagne, just as TK said. But they are definitely not part of southern France which is what we have visited. We will go to these areas next! France is so beautiful.

It does look a little like to Cotswolds doesn’t it! I’m glad we could introduce you to a couple of towns you hadn’t heard of before – these are definitely underrated gems, which is what we were going for :)

I am sure there are just too much historical and magical town and sites in France it would take a long time to complete! I would love to visit Paimpont, the forest of King Arthur, and Wizard? It’s totally up my alley! @ knycx.journeying

Very true – France is full of incredible little charming towns, you could probably spend a lifetime exploring here! If you’re a fan of the King Arthur stories / legend, a visit to Paimpont would definitely be for you!

We know that the countryside of France is brimming with picturesque villages and towns. Most of them pristine and untouched by tourism and commercial trappings. The fact that very few of the places you have listed are know is vindicative of this fact. We hope to go beyond Paris and explore these beautiful gems of France. This list is definitely a good place to start as each of these places seem as if they have emerged from the pages of a fairytale.

Absolutely – they’re very authentic and well off the usual tourist trail. It’s fabulous that a very old world version of France still exists, obviously with modern communities, but a very charming timelessness about the towns themselves.

I hope you have the opportunity to spend time visiting this region soon!

These all look so cute! I’d skip Paris any day and explore these towns. I loved the south while exploring the canals!

Right! So much more character and authentic charm than the bigger cities which have become increasingly commericalized :)

I grew up in Paris and yet haven’t ever been in any of these places. And you are so right the North if France is really easy to reach from the UK. And all these villages seem very character and charming. Maybe it’s time for a Road trip?

Glad we could give you a couple of ideas for a road trip Katharina; can highly recommend each and every one of these!

Oh wow! I think that I only knew about Dinan before reading this post! This reminds me of my long “French Small Towns” Bucket list, I should explore less Paris and more around!

Glad we could introduce you to some new French towns for your bucketlist :)

THIS is the France I knew as a kid – exactly the kinds of places I want to rediscover one day on some random drives. Merci! Ca, c’est bon.

Sounds like an incredible childhood! Glad the post could take you on a trip down memory lane :)

I am searching for a small French town, Nemo. Have you heard of it? Would love to come and walk or bike these wonderfully beautiful places.

Hi Harlene, I have not heard of Nemo in France. I’ll let you know if I manage to find any information about it though :)

These all look so cute! I’d skip Paris any day and explore these towns. I loved the south while exploring the canals!

Glad we could introduce you to each of them Jasy! Absolutely, each of these win out over Paris in my book any day :D

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Top 5 Places to Visit in Northern France

Northern France is often overlooked when planning a French getaway ,  while Southern France never fails to be a popular choice for family holidays and romantic retreats. However, here at Oliver’s Travels we know the wonders of Northern France and everything it has to offer! From exquisite beaches and beautiful vineyards to towns dripping in culture and the birthplace of Camembert, there’s something for everyone. We’ve chosen our favourite places to visit in Northern France, including some luxury chateaux , and shared the best things to do in each destination so you can soak up the splendour of this lovely region.

Best for culture: Lille

No longer just a Eurostar stop between London and Brussels, Lille has emerged as a destination in its own right. Head southeast from Calais to Lille, where you’ll discover the jewel in Nord-Pas-de-Calais’s crown has a surprising cultural scene, fine restaurants and a quaint old town.

Top 3 things to do in Lille:

• Gawp at the elaborately ornate Vieille Bourse, housed in the Grand Place, formerly the 17th-century stock exchange.
• Wander the winding streets of Vieux Lille, lined with red-brick Flemish buildings, a neo-gothic cathedral and lovely little eateries.
• Take a day trip to Arras, with its glorious mix of Art Deco, Baroque and Flemish architecture and network of underground war tunnels.

Best for history: Dunkirk

Dunkirk became famous for the epic 1940 evacuation of Allied troops, when 338,226 soldiers were improbably rescued, and today has a number of museums and war memorials.

Top 3 things to do in Dunkirk:

• Stand on the Eastern Jetty, which still juts out over the sea as it did in May 1940, and the beaches of Dunkirk, where queues of thousands of young men snaked down to the shore. It may be near-impossible to summon up the desperation felt by the troops, but it doesn’t make the effort any less important.
• Spend an afternoon at Musée Dunkerque 1940 to gain a proper understanding of the evacuation.
• Visit the British memorial on the Route de Furnes, which commemorates the 4,528 men who didn’t make it and have no known graves, and the attendant cemetery, home to 793 marked graves from the episode.

Best for foodies: Calais

Top 3 things to do in Calais:

• Swim in the gently sloping Blériot Plage, or explore the necklace of beaches strung along the Côte d’Opale, from the cliff-edged Cap Blanc-Nez to Cap Gris-Nez, with a lighthouse on its craggy headland.
• While the town itself is peppered with creative restaurants (Le Grand Bleu, Restaurant Aquar’Aile , Histoire Ancienne ), the surroundings farms of Nord-Pas-de-Calais channel the field-to-fork movement. Sign up for a local gastronomy tour of Sept Vallées to loop around local food producers cradled among valleys, such as La Halte d’Autrefois and La Chocolaterie de Beussent .
• Ascend the 78m-high, Unesco-listed belfry of Calais’ Hôtel de Ville for sweeping views over the city.

Best for scenic strolls: Boulogne-sur-Mer

Boulogne-sur-Mer has a pretty cobblestoned quarter – the ville haute, or upper town – with medieval walls wrapping around a grand, domed basilica and web of narrow streets.

Top 3 things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer:

• Within the walled upper town is the twelfth-century belfry – Boulogne-sur-Mer’s oldest monument; visit only by guided tour of the Hôtel de Ville.
• Wander around the domed Basilique Notre-Dame, built in the nineteenth century by the daring Father Haffreingue, who didn’t have any architectural knowledge or seek any advice – yet somehow it works.
• One of the best things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer is to ramble the ramparts, a 45-minute route dotted with rose beds and wooden benches, overlooking the city below.

Best for romantics: Picardy

Top 3 things to do in Picardy:

• Head to Amiens to see its 138.8ft-high cathedral – the tallest in France, with gothic flourishes and stained glass. Afterwards, call by one of the local pâtisseries to try the delicious macarons d’Amiens.
• Visit the fields and villages of the Somme, where the main battle lines of the First World War were drawn. Vimy Ridge, north of Arras, is ridged with lines of preserved trenches, while the Circuit de Souvenir follows poignant sites in the countryside around Albert.
• Château de Chantilly opens up on the shores of a glassy lake like a pop-up book; inside, Musée Condé holds a collection of sublime paintings. Stroll the manicured parkland or venture into the Forêt de Chantilly.

Now that you’ve seen our favourite places to visit in Northern France, why not check out our villas in Northern France and plan your next trip? Need a hand? Contact our lovely concierge team for more information or help with your booking! For any more ideas of things to do on your Northern France holiday, check out Bookmundi’s tours and trips. 

Looking for a full list of villas to rent this year? Check out our villa holidays page here.

Northern France Travel Guide Top 11 villas in Northern France Top 10 villas in Normandy Best foodie experiences in Brittany

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