10 Incredible French Monuments Away from Paris (Not Châteaux)
Want to see more of France than just Paris? These 10 monuments are must-visits and they’re not châteaux. Each one tells a unique story and shows off the country’s incredible history and design. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, these are the spots you can’t miss.
1. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
You’ve surely read about (or seen) Mont Saint-Michel, one of the most striking sights in France. The village is perched on a rocky island surrounded by vast sandbanks that flood with the tides. The abbey at the top seems to rise straight out of the sea. What’s fascinating is how the island transforms with the tides, turning from a coastal hilltop to a fully isolated island, a natural spectacle that has captivated visitors for centuries.
2. Pont du Gard, Occitanie
The Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct that towers over the Gardon River. Its massive stone arches, perfectly preserved, show the incredible engineering skills of the Romans. What makes it truly stunning is its sheer size and the way it blends into the natural landscape, spanning the river with amazing precision. Visitors can walk across the lower level and admire the aqueduct from various angles.
3. Carcassonne, Occitanie
Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic walled cities in Europe. Its double ramparts and 52 towers give it a fairytale appearance, transporting you back to the Middle Ages. Walking through its cobbled streets, you can explore centuries of history, from the Romans to medieval knights. At night, the illuminated walls turn the city into a magical scene.
4. Palais des Papes, Avignon
This is one of Europe’s largest Gothic structures and a key historical landmark. It served as the residence of popes in the 14th century. This fortress-like palace dominates Avignon’s skyline with its impressive scale and towering walls. The views from its rooftop terraces and its grand halls create a memorable experience for visitors.
5. Saint-Malo Ramparts, Brittany
The Saint-Malo Ramparts are impressive stone walls that surround the old town with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Walking along these ancient fortifications, you can see the beautiful coastline, nearby islands, and the lively port. These walls have withstood multiple sieges and attacks over centuries, protecting the city from pirates and invaders.
6. Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Lyon
The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière sits on top of a hill and dominates Lyon’s skyline, a striking mix of Gothic and Byzantine architecture. It was built in the late 19th century as a symbol of gratitude after Lyon was spared from Prussian invasion during the Franco-Prussian War. From its terraces, you get a panoramic view of the entire city. Inside, the basilica has remarkable mosaics and stained glass.
7. Arles Amphitheatre, Provence
The Arles Amphitheatre is a remarkable Roman structure built in the 1st century AD. Its impressive design features two tiers of 60 arches. Similar to the Nimes arena, it originally hosted gladiator battles. Today, it continues to host events such as bullfights and performances, keeping its Roman heritage alive.
8. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, Centre-Val de Loire
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It’s famous for its stunning stained glass windows. Built in the 12th century, its towering spires are impressive. Inside, its iconic blue glass creates a beautiful light inside the cathedral. Its role as a major pilgrimage site has made it a central part of French religious history.
9. Pont Saint-Bénézet (Avignon Bridge), Provence
The Pont Saint-Bénézet is also known as the Avignon Bridge, a half-ruined medieval bridge that once spanned the Rhône River. Only four of the original 22 arches remain. Built in the 12th century, it became famous through the French song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon.”
10. Basilica of Saint-Sernin, Toulouse
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe, famous for its towering octagonal bell tower that dominates the skyline. Built in the 11th century, it’s an important religious site as it houses relics of Saint Saturnin, the first bishop of Toulouse. Its stone carvings and massive size make it a marvel of medieval architecture.