Day 2828 (Thursday) 6th March 2025

This is Eze Village

This is the Japanese garden in Monaco.

It was a bit windy today and it’s quite cold, the sky is still blue but it’s not sitting outdoors weather. Huw went for a walk to Nice this morning and took these nice photos.

Here are the rest of the places to visit in France…

10. Brush Up on Your History in Normandy

Anyone looking to visit the top cities in France cannot ignore Normandy. Nestled in the northwest corner of the country, Normandy is notorious for its role during dramatic moments in history.

Some of these pivotal moments include William the Conqueror launching attacks on Britain, Joan of Arc burning at the stake, and the famed D-Day during World War II. While it is important to understand Normandy’s role during multiple battles throughout the years, this French city caters to more than just history buffs.

Start by exploring the world-renown D-Day beaches, boasting a journey back to the past and scenic shoreline explored diligently by European cruises. Afterward, head over to Mont Saint-Michel Abbey—one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site’s surrounded by the sea. This remarkable attraction can be explored through a tour of the abbey and the surrounding village year-round.

Art lovers will love Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen which features paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other art from the world’s famed artists. For more art discovery, check out Claude Monet’s House and Garden. As the previous home of the world’s most famous impressionist, you will fall in love with this spectacular home and garden truly brought to life by Monet’s remaining art.

With sweeping coastlines, countless historical sites, and rolling green hills, Normandy is a must-see city in France.

Contribution by: Ellie of Ellie’s Travel Tips.

11. Realise Your Champagne Dreams in Reims, One of The Best Cities in France.

Reims, France is an idyllic little city in Normandy that is an incredible addition to any French itinerary. Reims is one of the two main destinations in the champagne region of France, along with Epernay. The city also played a pivotal role in WWII, and is home to a few different UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The main draw of Reims is undoubtedly its renowned champagne houses. Popular champagne maisons to visit in Reims include Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, Champagne Pommery, Ruinart, and Mumm. In Epernay and the other smaller towns in the champagne region, you can explore other champagne houses on a day trip as well. There are plenty of other things to do in Reims besides touring champagne houses, however. 

Reims was an important historical site during WWII, as it is the city where German forces signed surrender to the Allies. Musee de la Reddition, the actual building where it took place, is a place that should not be missed. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Palais du Tau, St. Remi’s Basilica, and Notre Dame de Reims, only add to Reims’ charm. 

The city is easy to navigate on foot and very pedestrian friendly. If you’re arriving in Paris, Reims is very easy to access, and can take less than an hour with the high speed trains.

Contribution by: Jade for France Bucket List.

12. Visit France (and Germany) in Strasbourg

Besides Paris, there are plenty of beautiful cities and towns in France, and Strasbourg is one of the best. Strasbourg is located in eastern France, not far from the border with Germany. It’s a perfect day trip from Heidelberg or Paris (only two hours). And, as the capital of Alsace and the Grand Est region, it’s filled with amazing museums, a large range of restaurants and hotels, and of course, beautiful architecture.

A visit to Strasbourg wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the gothic cathedral of Notre Dame de Strasbourg, the picturesque neighbourhood of La Petite France, the European neighbourhood, and the History Museum of Strasbourg. And, when visiting Notre Dame, do not miss climbing to the top of the tower. When the sky is clear, you can see all the way to the Black Forest in Germany.

If visiting France in winter, the Christmas Markets are a must. And Strasbourg has been named the capital of Christmas for good reason. To avoid the crowds, try visiting the markets early on a weekday.

Contribution by: Fiona of Travelling Thirties.

13. See “La Ville Rose” of Toulouse, One of The Best Cities in France

Located in Southwest France, Toulouse is one of  the most beautiful and lively cities in France. It’s nicknamed “La Ville Rose” (the pink city) because most buildings are made with pink stones. You can easily get there by plane or train. 

The first place you should head is the Capitole. It’s the central square in Toulouse city centre. From there, you can reach all the main attractions. The city centre is fairly small, which makes it very easy to explore on foot. Alternatively, you can take the metro.

For beautiful views, walk up to La Daurade and along the banks of the river Garonne. You will discover wonderful views of the river and the bridges. It’s a great place to go in the evening and watch the sunset. For shopping, St. Georges and Carmes will be your paradise. These two historic neighbourhoods are home to fantastic local shops. 

Toulouse is also known for its museums. The best ones are Les Augustins and Les Abattoirs. You will have to pay an entry fee, but if you are visiting at the beginning of the month, make sure to go there on the first Sunday when it will be free.

Finally, Toulouse is a city for foodies. Southwest France boasts some of the most authentic food in the country. The local speciality is the cassoulet. You will find it in most local restaurants. For more food options, head to Rue du Taur. It’s full of restaurants and you will find a bit of everything.

Contribution by: Pauline of BeeLoved City.

14. Go Beyond The Palace Walls in Versailles

Versailles is a beautiful French city, well worth a visit for the day or on a weekend getaway. Everybody associates Versailles with Versailles’ Palace, but there are many other interesting things to see and do in Versailles. Which makes it, in my book, one of the best cities in France to visit.

Versailles is located 40 kilometres west of Paris, and is very easy to reach by train from Paris Saint Lazare train station or by RER trains from Paris’ left bank.

There’s beautiful baroque architecture in Versailles, private mansions from the XVII–XVII centuries built for the king’s court and closer staff. The Royal Opera and Notre Dame de Versailles Church, also in Baroque style, are also worth a visit. You may want to spend some time exploring the Versailles Estate, with the Château, the Trianons, and the gardens of Versailles. The Versailles park is always free to visit, and is a wonderful place for a picnic on the grass or a bike ride.

While in Versailles, be sure to try the Paris-Versailles cake by Ore-Ducasse, made of choux pastry, a mix of dry nuts and praline grains. 

Contribution by: Elisa of World In Paris.