If you’re seeking the most beautiful villages in France, look to these 13 incredible hidden gems.
Each of these idyllic villages offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and captivating history.
Read more below to explore these charming and lesser-known destinations you won’t want to miss when you visit France.
CONTENTS – In this article, you will explore some of the most beautiful villages in France, including:
- Prepare to Visit France’s Picturesque Villages
- 13 Most Beautiful Villages in France
- 1. Gordes, Provence
- 2. Roussillon, Provence
- 3. Eguisheim, Alsace
- 4. Conques, Aveyron
- 5. Colmar, Alsace
- 6. Rocamadour, Midi-Pyrénées
- 7. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
- 8. Yvoire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
- 9. Lourmarin, Provence
- 10. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
- 11. Vézelay, Burgundy
- 12. Saint-Émilion, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
- 13. Turenne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
- Final Thoughts on the Most Beautiful Villages in France
- Next Steps
Discovering France’s Most Picturesque Villages
Are you ready to embark on a journey through some of the most beautiful villages in France?
These hidden gems, with their cobblestone streets and vine-clad houses, are the very epitome of charm and romance.
You’ll want to plan your itinerary, including lodging options and transportation, to these picturesque destinations.
And if you’re traveling to France from overseas, be sure to check the entry requirements for your nationality. For example, Australians will require an ETIAS visa waiver soon, as well as many other countries.
Then, book your flights, pack your bags, and enjoy this incredible opportunity to see France’s most beautiful villages for yourself.
13 Most Beautiful Villages in France
But first, let’s take a look at the best villages you should visit in France. Grab a cup of coffee and let’s stroll through these idyllic French villages. That way, you can sort out your itinerary.
1. Gordes, Provence
Gordes stands as a sentinel over the Luberon Valley, a witness to centuries of history, art, and Provencal tradition. It’s our first one among the most beautiful villages in France.
The village invites wanderers to explore its winding streets adorned with stone houses that house hidden courtyards blooming with vibrant flowers.
Visit the Village des Bories, an open-air museum displaying the historical dry stone dwellings that give a glimpse into bygone eras.
The Pol Mara museum and the weekly market are the beating heart of the community. They offer a mosaic of modern art and regional produce that is both tantalizing and inspiring!
2. Roussillon, Provence
Roussillon stands proudly amidst the ochre cliffs, an artist’s palette that comes to life with warm hues ranging from golden yellows to rich reds.
Here, you can embark on the Ochre Path, a trail winding through the whimsical ochre formations that playfully change colors with the sun.
The heart of the village is a vibrant canvas, with houses bathed in warm tones that echoe the natural pigment of the ochre quarries.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll find inspiration at every corner. Plus, numerous galleries showcase local art that embodies the spirit and colors of Roussillon.
3. Eguisheim, Alsace
A labyrinth of cobblestone streets arranged in circles invites you to lose yourself in the enchantment of Eguisheim.
At its heart stands the Saint-Leon IX chapel, a sanctuary of peace and spiritual beauty.
Flower-bedecked houses narrate tales from centuries past, each bearing historical signs that offer insights into their storied history. The village is a rich tapestry of culture, with wine-growing traditions dating back to Roman times.
Engage in a tantalizing journey through the Alsace Wine Route, where each vineyard shares a story through its distinct flavors and aromatic wines.
4. Conques, Aveyron
In the rugged landscapes of Aveyron lies Conques, you’ll find a medieval gem that seems untouched by time.
The Abbey-Church of Sainte-Foy stands as a testimony to the region’s rich spiritual heritage, drawing pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
Wander through the narrow alleys, as each will offer surprises in the form of quaint shops, artisan workshops, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the lush valley.
The treasury of the abbey houses a collection of remarkable golden artifacts that tell tales of devotion and artistry from the Middle Ages.
5. Colmar, Alsace
Journey deeper into Alsace to discover Colmar, a village where time seems to stand still.
The well-preserved buildings of Gothic and early Renaissance architecture narrate tales of centuries past.
St. Martin’s Church stands as a grandiose testimony to the architectural splendor of bygone eras.
Explore the Little Venice quarter, where canals meander through cobblestone streets, offering romantic boat rides that grant you a unique perspective of the vibrant, flower-adorned houses.
Colmar is also a haven for art enthusiasts, home to the Unterlinden Museum. It houses the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of German Renaissance art.
6. Rocamadour, Midi-Pyrénées
Rocamadour is a vertiginous (steeply inclined) village clinging to a cliffside in the scenic Midi-Pyrénées region.
At its heart is the venerated Chapel of the Black Madonna. This haven of tranquility that houses the revered statue of the Virgin Mary. When you visit, you might find yourself wrapped in an almost ethereal calm, a testament to its longstanding role as a Christian pilgrimage site.
Beyond its spiritual allure, you’ll discover majestic views of the Alzou Canyon in Rocamadour.
This beautiful village is truly a harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility!
7. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
As you journey further, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in Occitanie awaits, adorned with medieval ruins and blooming flower-bedecked balconies.
It’s not just the historical allure that captivates; the natural setting is equally entrancing.
Perched high above the banks of the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie provides you with stunning vistas of the winding river, which cuts a swathe through the rugged landscapes.
If you’re romantically inclined, take a stroll during the golden hour when the sun casts a warm glow on the ancient stone buildings. This creating an ambiance that is nothing short of magical.
8. Yvoire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Yvoire is a medieval village that transports you back to the 14th century with its well-preserved architecture and blooming gardens.
The village is renowned for its artistic flair, with numerous galleries and workshops lining its cobblestone streets.
Don’t miss the Garden of Five Senses while you’re there. It’s inspired by medieval models and promises a sensory delight through a magnificent display of plants and flowers.
9. Lourmarin, Provence
Nestled in the lush landscape of the Luberon National Park, Lourmarin will enchant you with its Renaissance château and charming cafés.
This picturesque village offers a rich cultural scene. You can explore numerous galleries and see artists finding their muse amidst its scenic alleys.
Walk through its vibrant market on Fridays to further immerse yourself in a vibrant array of Provencal colors and flavors.
10. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Perched like a nest between cliffs, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is known for its rich history and its fine faience ceramics.
You’ll come to easily recognize this beautiful, tin-glazed earthenware produced in France between the 16th and 18th century.
Next, wander the streets to witness artisans at work, creating pieces that echo centuries of tradition.
This village offers not only a rich heritage but also jaw-dropping views of the Verdon Gorges, a grand canyon that promises adventure and unparalleled beauty.
11. Vézelay, Burgundy
Vézelay, a hilltop village in Burgundy, invites you to experience its spiritual and historical depths.
The centerpiece is the Vézelay Abbey, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is here that you can find the relics of Mary Magdalene.
The village is also a starting point for pilgrimages. It offers you a tranquil atmosphere infused with deep spirituality.
In addition, you’ll enjoy touring superb vineyards that provide a taste of the region’s celebrated wines.
12. Saint-Émilion, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Saint-Émilion is not just a treat for the eyes–but also for the palate!
Nestled in the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions, it offers an unbeatable combination of wine tours and historical exploration.
A visit to the monolithic church carved from a limestone cliff is a must-see, as are the vineyards that offer tours. There, you’ll gain insight into the rich wine-making tradition of the region.
13. Turenne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
As one of the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” Turenne beckons with its towering castle that tells tales of its feudal past.
Walk through history as you explore its narrow streets lined with old stone houses. Most homes are adorned with rose bushes, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys as you walk along. This makes Turenne a serene escape into a timeless, picturesque realm.
When you visit Turenne, don’t miss the panoramic views over the lush valleys. You’ll discover every glance is a painting comes to life!
Final Thoughts on the Most Beautiful Villages in France
When you visit the most beautiful villages in France, you’ll discover a treasure trove of delightful experiences, filled with beauty, culture, and history.
From the picturesque streets of Gordesto to the dramatic cliffs of Turenne, these villages showcase the diverse and enchanting tapestry of France.
So, plan your journey to these hidden gems and you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime!
About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF
I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years. With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality. Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! Follow my social channels for more inspiration.
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