These Stunning Spots in France Offer the Perfect Weekend Getaway

Looking to spice up your weekends in France? This country offers a wide variety of weekend getaways that promise both relaxation and adventure.

From medieval hilltop villages and coastal gems to historical cities, each destination offers a unique experience. But which French destinations are great for a weekend getaway? This is what we show you in this article.

Our goal is to save you from the boredom of spending your weekend on the couch binge-watching or partying in the same city over and over. We want you to go out there and experience the other side of France. This is why we show you French destinations you can easily access and explore in just two days.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic getaway, a cultural exploration, or a scenic retreat, these 12 locations are perfect for a refreshing weekend. So, pack light and get ready to discover the best of France in just a couple of days.

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Weekend Getaways in France Strasbourg, Alsace

Strasbourg, Alsace 1/5

Weekend Getaways in France Avignon, Provence–Alpes–Côte d'Azur

Avignon, Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur 2/5

Weekend Getaways in France Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes 3/5

Weekend Getaways in France Saint-Malo, Brittany

Saint-Malo, Brittany 4/5

Weekend Getaways in France Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine 5/5

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Strasbourg, Alsace

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Avignon, Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur

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Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

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Saint-Malo, Brittany

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Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

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Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Annecy is a picturesque city known for Lake Annecy and the surrounding French Alps. The canals winding through its medieval old town make it even more beautiful. Annecy is an ideal weekend destination offering a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Besides, it is a pretty compact city that you can easily explore on foot. You will also like the fact that Annecy is well connected by train and road from other major cities like Geneva, Lyon or Paris.

You can walk around, swim or boat to Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest lakes in Europe. Then, explore Old Town for a dose of the city’s rich history. Don’t miss out on the 12th-century Annecy Castle. You could also head out to the Alps for hiking adventures. Whether you want to relax or get active, Annecy delivers.

Savor Local Cuisine: Try tartiflette, a regional specialty made with Reblochon cheese, potatoes, and bacon, at Le Freti, a highly rated restaurant in the Old Town.
Stroll Through Old Town: Wander the cobbled streets of Vieille Ville, stopping at local markets (typically open Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings) to pick up fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries. Don’t forget to admire the canals and colorful buildings, which give Annecy its nickname, “The Venice of the Alps.”

Strasbourg, Alsace

In less than two hours on a train from Paris, you will be in Strasbourg for a weekend full of beautiful scenery and rich history. This city, the capital of the Alsace region, is known for its unique blend of French and German influences, including architecture, culture, and cuisine. Lying on the French-German border is truly an amazing way to get a dose of both worlds.

Some unmissable points of interest include the medieval half-timbered houses, the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral, and the picturesque La Petite neighborhood in France. Strasbourg is also pretty compact, so you can easily explore on foot or bike for an active weekend.

Climb Strasbourg Cathedral: Visit the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Entry to the cathedral is free, but tickets to climb the tower for stunning panoramic city views cost 8 EUR (approximately 8.70 USD). It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Explore La Petite France: Wander through the fairytale-like neighborhood of La Petite France, filled with half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and cute canals.

Avignon, Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur

Avignon is a historical city in southeastern France famous for being the seat of the Catholic popes in the 14th century. The Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), where the popes resided, is one of Europe’s largest Gothic buildings and the main attraction in Avignon.

Beyond the Palace of the Popes, you will also like the city’s scenic setting along the Rhone. You can just walk along the river’s promenade, soaking in the peaceful vibes.

Other unmissable landmarks in this city include Pont d’Avignon, a half-standing bridge which floods have washed much of over the centuries; the 12th century Avignon Cathedral, which is adjacent to the Palace of the Popes; and Place de l’Horloge, the city’s main square, perfect for sampling cafes and local eateries.

Avignon has something to offer, whether you are a history buff or a lover of arts and culture.

Stroll Along the Rhône Promenade: Walk the peaceful promenade along the Rhône River and enjoy views of the city’s landmarks, including the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon. It’s the perfect break from sightseeing in this historic city.
Visit Pont d’Avignon: Walk on the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as Pont d’Avignon. Entry to the bridge costs 5 EUR (about 5.40 USD).

Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Wine lovers looking for a quick getaway in France would love Bordeaux. This city is known for its elegant 18th-century architecture and its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can visit Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux’s main square, known for its classical architecture; La Cité du Vin, a museum dedicated to the city’s wine heritage; and the 12th-century Saint-André Cathedral, a massive cathedral known for its unique Gothic design.

You can cruise on the Garonne River or head out to the vineyards and wineries for some adventures.

Visit La Cité du Vin: This iconic wine museum immerses visitors in Bordeaux’s wine culture with exhibits, tastings, and stunning panoramic views of the city. Tickets cost 22 EUR (approximately 23.70 USD) and include a wine tasting on the rooftop terrace. La Cité du Vin is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit their official website.
Explore Place de la Bourse: This elegant square reflects Bordeaux’s classical architecture and is best known for the Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool. It is free to visit and particularly stunning at night when the square is fully illuminated.

Saint-Malo, Brittany

Consider Saint-Malo for a weekend of seaside relaxation. This port city is known for its walled citadel, rich maritime heritage, and stunning location along the English Channel. It is also a great destination for beach and seafood lovers. Besides, Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most iconic landmarks, is not far from Saint-Malo. You could quickly drive or take a bus to this remarkable site.

Make time for the Walled City (Intra-Muros), Saint Vincent Cathedral, and Fort National in Saint-Malo. The city is also home to several lovely beaches. The most famous, Plage du Sillon, is a vast stretch of golden sand perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Eat at Le Chalut: For seafood enthusiasts, Le Chalut serves fresh catches with refined preparation. Their prix-fixe menu starts at 60 EUR (about 65 USD). Favorites include lobster and oysters, making it the perfect spot for a true local dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Relax on Plage du Sillon: Spend a peaceful afternoon on this expansive beach, famous for its golden sands and stunning coastline views. It’s free to access and ideal for relaxing or strolling along the shore.

Nimes, Occitanie

Dubbed “the French Rome,” Nimes is a historical city that boasts some of the best ancient Roman monuments outside Italy. Some of the most notable Roman architecture in the town include Nîmes Arena and the Maison Carrée.

With its compact size, you can easily explore its Roman monuments, stroll through charming streets, and enjoy the local cuisine within a couple of days. Also, from Nimes, you could quickly head out to explore Pont du Gard, one of the best-standing Roman aqueducts. You can visit the site, hike in the surrounding area, and even swim in the river below the aqueduct.

If you have the time and the opportunity, attend a concert in the arena, climb the Tour Magne for panoramic views of the city, or sample local specialties like brandade de morue (salt cod and olive oil spread) and gardiane de taureau (bull stew).

Explore the Maison Carrée: This completely intact Roman temple is a must-visit. Entry costs 6 EUR (about 6.50 USD), with a ticket that includes access to the nearby Tour Magne. Maison Carrée is open from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Explore Les Halles de Nîmes Market: Stroll through this vibrant indoor food market to pick up fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialties like tapenade and olive oils. It’s free to enter and open daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM

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Carcassonne, Occitanie

Visiting Carcassonne feels like stepping into a medieval storybook. This city is known for its medieval fortifications, which are some of the best preserved in Europe. The star attraction is the Cité de Carcassonne, a breathtaking medieval fortress with 52 towers and a double-walled rampart.

When visiting, explore the Château Comtal, Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and Portes Narbonnaises, all of which are parts of the Cité de Carcassonne. You could also stroll along River Aude and soak in its serenity or head out to the nearby Canal du Midi, one of the most picturesque waterways in France.

With its historical and fairytale experiences, Carasaconne draws millions of tourists every year. Luckily, Carcassonne is also very compact. In two days, you can explore the fortress, enjoy the stunning views, and immerse yourself in medieval history. The city also offers great food, charming accommodations, and nearby attractions such as vineyards and the Canal du Midi.

Lastly, make sure to stroll around the city at night. Seeing the ancient walls and towers beautifully illuminated makes for a memorable experience.

Explore at Night: Walk the Cité de Carcassonne during the evening hours when the stone walls and turrets are beautifully illuminated. The quiet serenity and soft lights provide a magical atmosphere for photography and peaceful reflection.
Try Cassoulet at Auberge des Lices: Sample a traditional cassoulet—a rich stew of white beans, sausage, and duck confit—at Auberge des Lices.

Reims, Grand Est

For a relaxing and culturally enriching weekend, head out to Reims. This city perfectly blends history, scenic beauty, and leisure. Known as the “City of Kings,” Reims has long been associated with the French monarchy, as it was the traditional coronation site for French kings. The city is also famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, notably the Notre Dame Cathedral of Reims, recognized as one of the country’s most magnificent cathedrals. This cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where 33 of the French Kings were crowned.

Beyond the cathedral, you can explore the Palace of Tau and Saint-Remi Basilica, other amazing places to soak in Reims’s rich history. Don’t miss out on the Gallo-Roman Cryptoporticus. This underground gallery dates back to the Roman era and was also part of the Roman forum that once stood in Reims.

Being part of the Champagne wine region means endless wine-tasting opportunities in Reims. If you are a wine lover, make some time for the cellars scattered throughout the city and the surrounding countryside. The best part is, you can drive or take a train to Reims in under 2 hours from Paris.

Dine at Racine, a Michelin-Starred Restaurant: For an unforgettable meal, enjoy contemporary French cuisine with Japanese influences at Racine. Prix-fixe lunch menus start at 75 EUR (approximately 80.50 USD), making it an exceptional culinary experience. Advanced reservations are required.
Sample Regional Dishes at Brasserie Excelsior: Located near the Reims train station, Brasserie Excelsior offers classic French brasserie fare in an Art Deco setting.

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Weekend Getaways in France Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — © Tichr / Adobe Stock

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is another perfect weekend getaway destination. Often referred to as the culinary capital of France, Lyon is home to some of the country’s finest restaurants, known for offering a taste of authentic French cuisine.

This city is also notable for its stunning architecture, with two of its districts, Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) and Presqu’île, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

When in Lyon, you can explore ancient Roman ruins, marvel at Renaissance architecture, and indulge in world-class cuisine. Some notable landmarks worth your time in this city include Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, Place des Terreaux, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, and Parc de la Tête d’Or.

It is important to note that Lyon is beautifully situated between the Rhône and the Saône. You can take a relaxing boat cruise along the rivers to see the city differently. The best part? You can access Geneva and Paris within 2 hours from Lyon.

It is a great destination for a weekend, but don’t be surprised if you decide to stay a little longer.

Shop at Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse: This gourmet market is a must for foodies. Sample local specialties like Saint-Marcellin cheese or andouillette sausage, or pick up treats to take home. Markets are open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
Dine at Daniel & Denise: This bouchon lyonnais, run by a Michelin-starred chef, serves classic Lyonnais dishes such as quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings) and praline tart.

Castellane, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Castellane, nestled along the banks of the Verdon River, is the perfect gateway to the Verdon Gorge. If you are a nature enthusiast, your trip to France is never complete without visiting Verdon Gorge.

Castellane is a charming medieval town with narrow streets, old stone buildings, and a stunning natural backdrop. The city is dominated by the dramatic Notre-Dame du Roc, a chapel perched on a rock offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The combination of Castellane’s historic charm and proximity to Verdon Gorge, the “Grand Canyon of Europe.”, makes this destination irresistible. You can head out to the gorge for hiking, kayaking, rafting, and rock climbing. You can also relax in the town and enjoy the beautiful and calm surroundings.

Shop in the Castellane Market: Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this local market offers fresh Provençal produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties like lavender honey.
Hike to Notre-Dame du Roc: This iconic chapel sits atop a 180-meter-high rock offering panoramic views of Castellane and the surrounding region. The hike takes about 30 minutes from the town center. Entry to the chapel is free, and it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Colmar, Alsace

Colmar holds a solid spot in any list of the most beautiful towns in France. It is known for its beautifully preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, charming half-timbered houses, and flower-lined canals. Come ready with your camera, as every turn you take in Colmar will be picture-perfect.

Start by exploring La Petite Venise (Little Venice), a network of canals lined with colorful half-timbered houses reminiscent of Venice. You can take a boat ride or walk along the narrow streets. Other noteworthy spots in the city include the Unterlinden Museum, Saint Martin’s Church, and Maison Pfister. You could also just walk around Old Town (Vieille Ville), marveling at the 16th-century buildings; it is an experience in itself.

Colmar is also known for producing Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. If you have more time, you can visit some wineries to sample the wines directly from the source.

Shop at the Covered Market: Explore Colmar’s indoor market in the heart of La Petite Venise, featuring local produce, cheeses, fresh-baked goods, and wines. Entry is free, and it’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Dine at Restaurant JY’S: Located in La Petite Venise, Restaurant JY’S is a Michelin-starred establishment offering inventive French cuisine.

Èze, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Weekend Getaways in France Èze, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur — © Aleh Varanishcha / Adobe Stock

Èze is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the irresistible charm of beautiful French villages. Luckily, it is located less than 30 minutes from Nice, so you can easily drive there or take a short train ride to visit Nice. This medieval village is located on a hilltop, nearly 1,410 feet (430 meters) above sea level, and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The village is famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. For your exploration, explore the Jardin Exotique d’Èze, Èze Old Town, Nietzsche’s Path (Chemin de Nietzsche) and Èze Church (Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption). Whether you are looking for stunning scenery, historic charm, or relaxation opportunities, Èze will not disappoint you.

Visit Èze Church (Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption): This 18th-century baroque church is located in the heart of the village. Entry is free, and the serene interior provides a moment of quiet reflection.
Shop at Parfumerie Fragonard: Located just outside the village, Parfumerie Fragonard offers a free guided tour of their perfume-making process, along with access to their boutique selling fragrances and soaps made in Èze.