Is
Paris the most romantic city in the world? Some would say it is. From its fine food to its scenic corners, there's no denying that love is in the air in the French capital. But it isn't the only romantic French city out there too. On the contrary, many would argue that other cities in France are more romantic. Nice and its idyllic coast puts up a good fight. As foes Strasbourg and its storybook-like aesthetic. The grand city of Bordeaux, known as the wine capital of the world, also reeks of romance with every sparkling bottle of champagne it produces. While Colmar's Medieval look adds a bit of whimsy to the French Alps.
Bordeaux
As the “wine capital” of the world, there's no way Bordeaux won't be on this list! Located along the scenic Garonne River in southwestern France, the city is as grand as you'd think! Bordeaux is beloved as an opulent metropolis where centuries-old gilded palaces and imposing mansions add a much-needed grandeur to what is technically the countryside. And amidst all that, there are the idyllic
wineries in France where you and your special someone can sip the finest whites and reds ever made.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cannes
Is it any surprise that
Cannes is among the most beautiful French cities beyond Paris? It's practically the second-most famous metropolis in the country after the capital city. Though it's mostly known for its annual film festival, the place itself exudes cinematic romance. From its stunning shorelines and scenic hillsides to the lovely cobbled streets and age-old fortresses, it's as if the city is built for a romantic getaway. You might just visit here for your honeymoon and such, but it won't take long for you to want to
relocate to Cannes yourself!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Chamonix
Chamonix is famous as one of the
most beautiful towns in the French Alps. This charming commune is at the base of Mont Blanc and you can see its iconic peak from here. That is if you're not too distracted by the idyllic charms of this town. Its grand manors, cobbled streets, and lively square town harken back to simpler times, providing the perfect mood for a French provincial romance. And even before getting to the slopes, you'll see the surrounding sweeping landscapes in all their natural glory.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Colmar
Timbered houses, serene canals, and flower-laden bridges and streets. These are what to expect in the picturesque town of Colmar in the Grand Est region. Though it's all the way in the
French countryside, it's lively enough that you and your partner won't get bored here. You'll spend most of your time taking pictures, seeing the sights, and absorbing the rural charms of the city. You couldn't have asked for a better place to have your honeymoon or a simple romantic getaway in France.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Giverny
This next one is actually near Paris: Giverny. It's only a small village in the northern French region of Normandy but it's close enough to the French capital that you can take a
day trip from Paris and be back by nightfall. Any fan of art knows that Giverny is a must-see! Legendary Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked here and even made the entire village his own muse. The town's enchanting florals usually made it onto his iconic paintings and the real ones are just as beguiling as the artworks!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nice
Now, let's go back to the
French Riviera and get to know Nice, another of the most romantic French cities beyond Paris. This coastal oasis is the quintessential “Southern France” with its laid-back vibe and Mediterranean warmth. On some days, you and your significant other can spend the day at the beach, and on other days, you can explore the city. Add the grand manors, Medieval churches, and preserved castles and you've got a great romantic destination you won't ever forget!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ribeauvillé
Ribeauvillé is a Medieval town with expansive vineyards, timbered houses, and lots of fascinating flora. If that doesn't sound like a perfect romantic destination, then what does? All the way in the Alsace region, Ribeauvillé is an idyllic countryside town full of nostalgic charms. You can almost expect the characters from your favorite
Disney films to pop out of nowhere! With such storybook appeal on full display, you can live out your own fairytale fantasy in Ribeauvillé!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Saint-Émilion
If you think Bordeaux is too big or crowded of a city to inspire any romance while you're in France's wine region, perhaps Saint-Émilion will suit you more! In contrast to the grandeur of Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is a medieval town filled with narrow alleys, cobbled streets, and leaf-covered houses. Of course, you can't forget about the scenic vineyards too! You're still in wine country, after all, so there's a lot of sparkling bubbly to go around. They're perfect to pair with the city's local haute cuisine!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Strasbourg
Many of the other French cities on this list are so romantic, they're perfect for Valentine's Day. But what about the holiday season? Tis' the season for love too, you know! And if you plan to travel to France around this time of the year, what city (apart from Paris, of course!) would be the perfect destination? Strasbourg in the Grand Est region. Beloved for its heartwarming holiday markets, it's widely regarded as the Christmas capital of France. It helps that this is also where you'll find one of the
most iconic Christmas trees in the world.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Toulouse
Finally, there's Toulouse, the capital of the southern Occitanie region of France. By its location alone, you already know that it's a warm and sunny place, even in winter. If you plan to go here on Valentine's Day, which is often around the peak of winter in Europe, Toulouse can still offer a cozy and toasty holiday. Though it's technically in the countryside, it's one of the bigger French cities out there. The beauty of the place is also out of this world—a charming combination of the Riviera and Medieval France.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
France is the ultimate romantic destination and it's not just because of Paris! There are many romantic French cities out there, perfect for any couple looking to have a memorable honeymoon or the ultimate getaway.
