France offers extensive options as a holiday destination. From the glamour and the diversity of Paris to coastal and inland scenery, France has something for every traveller, and features some of the best boutique accommodation and culinary options in mainland Europe, if not the world. While it is difficult to get away from Paris as a primary destination, travellers should also consider exploring some of the other parts of France. The following list represents, in no particular order, some of the top five holiday destinations for France:

1 – Paris

The first choice for most travellers, Paris offers multiple must see appeals. While it’s always worth visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysee and the Louvre, visitors should also consider the more bohemian Left Bank and the Latin Quarter by the Seine, as well as areas like Montmatre. A trip into the catacombs is also recommended for more adventurous travellers, while the Musee D’Orsay represents an excellent alternative, or complementary option to the Louvre. Paris is also the best choice for travellers wanting to use the city as a hub for connecting to other parts of France.

2 – Mont St Michel

A Gothic hilltop village on a tidal island in Normandy, Mont St Michel is one of the most distinctive locations in France. A short trip from the city of Caen, Mont St Michel developed around an ancient Abbey, and still retains its medieval feel for visitors. Accessible by foot and home to a winding strip of small shops, hotels and restaurants, Mont St Michel is ideal for a day trip, or for those wanting to sample some of its boutique accommodation options.

3 – Giverny

A riverside resort in Normandy, the small village of Giverny is most well-known for its associations with the Impressionist painter Monet. The picturesque village features Monet’s own home, as well as museums dedicated to Impressionism. Other cultural sites include the Natural Mechanical Museum, while the village itself offers affordable accommodation and excellent dining and walks.

4 – Provence

One of the most beautiful regions in France, Provence is home to both the Alpes Maritimes and the Hautes-Alpes mountain ranges, as well as the attractive low-lying Bouches du Rhone region, and the walled medieval city of Avignon. Part of the French Riviera, Provence also includes the thriving cities of Nice and Cannes. Ideal for visitors wanting to experience the diversity of the city and the calm of the countryside and mountains, Provence is also recommended for its skiing, hiking, food and wine.

5 – Nice

One of the best cities to visit in France, the Riviera destination of Nice combines Mediterranean beaches with ancient castles and the Vieux Nice old town, as well as culture through the Museum of Asian Art and the Musee Matisse, to name just a few. Easily reached from the rest of the country, Nice is a good destination for travellers along the Riviera, and adjoins a number of small villages and the imposing Mont Boron, which offers excellent views over the city and the sea.