10 Places to Explore Beyond Paris on a Two-Week First Trip to France
If you’re spending two weeks in France and want to venture outside Paris, here are real traveler-backed destinations that combine history, culture, and beauty—even in the heart of winter.
These aren’t random pins on a map, they’re places people keep returning to or still think about long after the trip ended.
Here’s where they go, and why.
1. Mont-Saint-Michel (Overnight)
One of the most striking places you can visit from Paris. Stay overnight on the Mont if you can. When the crowds leave and the tide rolls in, you can walk the ramparts in silence.
Some travelers say it’s the single best thing they’ve done in France.
2. The Châteaux of the Loire Valley
Chenonceau, Chambord, Cheverny – yes, they’re popular, but they live up to it. Unlike Versailles, these castles don’t pack in overwhelming crowds during the off-season.
Many travelers base themselves in Tours and spend a weekend exploring the valley. Train connections exist, but a car gives more freedom.
Smart tips for visiting the Loire Valley
3. Strasbourg and Colmar in Alsace
Strasbourg isn’t just about its cathedral, the entire old town feels intact. Even outside the Christmas season, people love the food, museums, and how compact the city is.
Colmar and nearby villages like Kaysersberg and Riquewihr are easy to reach by train or shuttle bus.
Visiting Strasbourg and/or Colmar
4. Lyon: An Underrated Gem
Lyon comes up again and again. It has strong train links, incredible food, and a relaxed city layout that feels easier than Paris.
Travelers often stay for a few days and leave wanting more. The old town is large, and the Presqu’île area between the rivers makes for great walking.
Lyon, France’s most underrated city
5. Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion
Bordeaux is surprisingly accessible by train and has a walkable center packed with neoclassical architecture. It’s quieter than Paris and feels sunnier in winter.
Wine lovers often take a short trip to Saint-Émilion where you can explore underground cellars and hillside views even in January.
Things to see and do in Bordeaux
6. Dijon and Its Free Museums
Some travelers are caught off guard by how much they enjoy Dijon. It’s small, historical, and many of its public museums are free.
In the winter, the town feels calm but not dead. It’s also a starting point for exploring Burgundy if you want to add Beaune or nearby vineyards.
Top things to see and do in Burgundy
7. Étretat and the Normandy Coast
If you’re craving a day outdoors, Étretat is a great choice, whether in summer or winter. The cliffs are impressive in any weather.
Honfleur and local cider farms are nearby and worth adding if the weather cooperates.
7 intriguing places in Normandy
8. Avignon and Southern Rhône
Avignon works as a base to explore the southern Rhône towns. The papal palace dominates the skyline, but the real charm is wandering the quieter corners of the historic center.
If you’re willing to stretch the route, Arles adds Roman ruins and a connection to Van Gogh.
30 best places to stay in the South of France
9. Aix-en-Provence
Aix has a warm and friendly tone. It’s compact, elegant, and full of local markets and fountains. People use it as a launching pad to see other parts of Provence, but even a short stay in town feels worthwhile.
5 base towns for exploring Provence
10. Reims & Épernay
Close to Paris, both cities let you visit Champagne houses without needing a car. Tastings are easy to arrange, and the atmosphere is festive without being overdone.
Some travelers say Reims is underwhelming outside of the cathedral, but many enjoy staying in Épernay for a smaller-town feel and champagne culture.
Bonus: Amiens for a Quick Hit of Gothic Grandeur
Amiens doesn’t come up often, but when it does, it’s for its cathedral and old town. It’s small enough for a day trip and makes a low-key contrast to the busier destinations. Some travelers find it a peaceful surprise.
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Cover photo: Arnaud 25 (CC BY-SA 3.0)