Introduction – Beyond Paris and Provence: France’s Hidden Charms
Everyone dreams of strolling down the Champs-Élysées or sipping wine in the lavender fields of Provence. But what if we told you that France’s most breathtaking experiences often lie in places you’ve never heard of? In villages where time slows, locals greet you by name, and cobblestone lanes echo centuries of stories. These aren’t just postcard-perfect places—they’re living, breathing windows into France’s soul.
This guide is for the curious traveler: families seeking a quiet escape from tourist crowds, cultural explorers looking to connect with the past, and anyone craving a journey that’s as enriching as it is beautiful. Forget the beaten path. These beautiful small towns in France are the gems you didn’t know you were missing.
So pack your curiosity (and maybe a baguette), because we’re about to uncover France’s most enchanting hidden corners.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
France is full of hidden gems beyond Paris and Provence. This guide takes you through 7 stunning small towns—like Eguisheim, Pérouges, and Moustiers—that offer timeless charm, walkable streets, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a family escape, romantic getaway, or scenic road trip, these off-the-radar villages promise a slower, more authentic slice of French life. Bonus mentions included for even more inspiration.
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Why Visit Small Towns in France?
If Paris is France’s glamorous front cover, then its small towns are the heartwarming chapters you won’t want to skip. Here’s why:
- Authenticity reigns: You’ll find age-old traditions, family-run boulangeries, and morning markets that haven’t changed in decades.
- They’re perfect for slow travel: With fewer crowds, no rushed itineraries, and walkable centers, these towns invite you to linger.
- Great for families: Safer streets, open-air squares, and nature at your doorstep—small towns offer a gentler pace for little ones and peace of mind for parents.
- A feast for the senses: Each town has its unique flavor, whether it’s Alsatian timber houses, Breton crêpes, or Provençal lavender fields.
And the best part? You don’t need to speak fluent French or navigate complex transit routes. Most of these towns are easily accessible from major hubs—with services like Omio making train or bus travel straightforward and convenient.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Highlights: Small Town Adventures the Whole Family Will Love
France’s small towns aren’t just scenic—they’re made for slow, memorable family travel. Whether you’re adventuring with toddlers or tweens, here are a few experiences to look forward to:
- 🐴 Carriage Rides in Locronan: A magical way to explore without tiring little legs.
- 🛶 Kayaking Below Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: Perfect for older kids who want adventure and parents who want views.
- 💜 Lavender Season in Gordes: Endless purple fields, photo ops, and even lavender ice cream (late June to early July).
- 🚶 Medieval Lanes in Pérouges: No cars in the center—just cobblestone fun and room to wander freely.
Most towns have stroller-friendly cores, shaded benches, and a pace that encourages downtime. These aren’t just charming spots—they’re practical, peaceful, and perfect for memory-making with kids.
How to Plan a Small Town Itinerary in France
Exploring France’s small towns isn’t just charming—it’s refreshingly simple once you know how to plan it. Whether you’re visiting for a week or longer, here’s how to make the most of your time without rushing:
- Structure your itinerary by region: France is best explored one pocket at a time. In 7–10 days, you can comfortably visit 2 regions and 3–4 small towns with time to relax and wander.
- Decide how you’ll get around: For maximum flexibility, renting a car lets you explore rural routes and hidden gems like Provence or the Dordogne. If you prefer trains or buses, check routes with Omio—many towns are easier to reach than you’d think.
- Check the seasons: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer ideal weather, fewer crowds, and local festivals. Summer is livelier but hotter and busier—especially in southern towns.
- Budget time for slow moments: Unlike city trips, rural France rewards spontaneous stops—picnic under chestnut trees, linger at a lavender shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a cobbled square.
For more tips on routes, train logistics, and scenic transport ideas, don’t miss our guide to train travel in France.
7 Most Beautiful Small Towns in France You’ve (Probably) Never Heard Of
Eguisheim (Alsace)
Step into a storybook in Eguisheim, a circular village wrapped in vineyards and crowned with candy-colored half-timbered houses. Often overshadowed by its nearby cousin Colmar, Eguisheim is a quieter, more intimate escape.
Why it’s special: Named one of France’s “Plus Beaux Villages,” its perfectly preserved architecture and spiraling lanes feel lifted from a fairy tale.
What to do:
- Follow the circular route on foot and count the stork nests atop chimney stacks.
- Sip a local Gewürztraminer at a family-owned winery—many offer free tastings.
- Visit the ruins of Château Saint-Léon above the village for panoramic vineyard views.
Tip: Stay in Colmar and take a short day trip by bus or car to Eguisheim. It’s a 15-minute journey that feels like stepping back 500 years.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Eguisheim
📍 Hôtel Le Colombier – Colmar
✨ Located in the heart of Colmar’s Old Town, just a 15-minute drive from Eguisheim. Elegant rooms with Alsatian charm, garden views, and a warm, family-welcoming vibe.
Book on Expedia
📍 Les Gîtes de la Maison Vigneronne – Eguisheim
✨ Stay right inside the village! This charming guesthouse offers cozy self-catering units perfect for cultural explorers who want to wake up in wine country.
Book on Booking.com
💡 Tip: Eguisheim and Colmar are popular in spring and fall—book early to secure the best views and locations, especially for family or group stays.
Pérouges (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
Perched above the Rhône valley, this medieval walled town is so untouched, it’s regularly used as a filming location for period dramas.
Why it’s special: Cobblestone streets, ivy-draped stone houses, and panoramic views make it feel like a movie set. But it’s very real—and very serene.
What to do:
- Taste the local specialty galette au sucre, a sugary flatbread you’ll crave forever.
- Join a medieval-themed tour to explore the town’s history as a 14th-century stronghold.
- Let kids roam freely—no cars are allowed inside the village.
Tip: Take a 30-minute train ride from Lyon to Meximieux-Pérouges station, then walk 15 minutes uphill to the town.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Pérouges
📍 Hôtel du Domaine des Cèdres – Villebois
✨ A peaceful countryside hotel just 25 minutes from Pérouges, perfect for families and couples alike. Offers spacious rooms, a playground, and plenty of greenery.
Book on Expedia
📍 Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges – Pérouges
✨ For a fully immersive experience, stay right inside the medieval village. This historic inn blends rustic charm with authentic atmosphere—ideal for cultural travelers.
Book on Booking.com
📍 Ibis Lyon Est Beynost – Beynost
✨ A budget-friendly family option with easy train access to Meximieux-Pérouges. Reliable comfort, parking, and nearby shops make it great for short stays.
Book on Expedia
💡 Tip: Pérouges has limited accommodations, so consider nearby towns or book early—especially in spring and fall when the weather is ideal for wandering those cobbled lanes.
Gordes (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
If Provence had a crown, Gordes would be its jewel. This hilltop village, with its white-stone buildings and jaw-dropping views, is both dramatic and deeply peaceful.
Why it’s special: It’s built right into the rock, offering sweeping views of the Luberon Valley. The sunsets here feel painted by Cézanne himself.
What to do:
- Visit Abbaye de Sénanque, especially during lavender season (late June–early July).
- Wander the open-air Tuesday market for Provençal fabrics, olives, and lavender soaps.
- Tour the Château de Gordes and its art exhibitions.
Tip: Rent a car for this one—Gordes is best accessed by scenic drives through the region. Just beware the winding roads and bring your camera.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Gordes
📍 Airelles Gordes, La Bastide – Gordes
✨ A luxury retreat perched above the Luberon Valley, offering sweeping views, family-friendly suites, and Provençal elegance. Great for special occasions and cultural explorers alike.
Book on Expedia
📍 Le Jas de Gordes – Gordes
✨ A charming countryside hotel just 5 minutes from the village center. Family-friendly pool, garden terraces, and peaceful rooms with authentic local design.
Book on Expedia
📍 Mas de la Beaume – Gordes
✨ Intimate and romantic, this beautifully restored stone farmhouse is ideal for couples seeking calm and heritage charm near lavender fields and vineyards.
Book on Booking.com
💡 Tip: Gordes is a popular base for exploring the Luberon region. Book early—especially in lavender season (late June–July)—as rooms with views tend to fill up fast.
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Collonges-la-Rouge (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
As the name suggests, this town is red. But not metaphorically—its buildings are made entirely from glowing red sandstone, giving it an otherworldly appearance.
Why it’s special: Collonges-la-Rouge is so unique in architecture and color that it inspired the creation of the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” association.
What to do:
- Picnic under chestnut trees after browsing the local deli shops.
- Visit the Chapelle des Pénitents Noirs, a tiny chapel with Gothic vibes.
- Walk along the ancient ramparts and soak up the crimson glow at sunset.
Tip: Best visited by car or as a stopover on a southwest France road trip.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Collonges-la-Rouge
📍 Château de Castel Novel – Varetz
✨ A romantic castle hotel about 30 minutes away, offering elegant rooms, forest views, and a true heritage ambiance—perfect for cultural explorers on a road trip.
Book on Expedia
📍 Hôtel La Truffe Noire – Brive-la-Gaillarde
✨ Located 25 minutes from Collonges-la-Rouge, this comfortable boutique stay offers local gourmet cuisine and easy access to both countryside and charming towns.
Book on Expedia
📍 Domaine de Granval Chambres d’Hôtes – Collonges-la-Rouge
✨ Just a few minutes from the village, this charming countryside B&B features warm hospitality, views of the red cliffs, and cozy rooms—ideal for quiet stays.
Book on Booking.com
💡 Tip: Since Collonges-la-Rouge is often explored as a road trip stop, accommodations in nearby towns like Brive-la-Gaillarde or Varetz offer more variety and availability—especially in high season.
Locronan (Brittany)
With its slate-roofed houses and timeless charm, Locronan is a Breton village where every corner feels like a painting.
Why it’s special: Once a hub for sail-making in the 17th century, it’s now a peaceful time capsule of stone buildings, tiny chapels, and mystical Celtic atmosphere.
What to do:
- Ride a horse-drawn carriage through town—especially fun for families.
- Try a hot buttered crêpe and locally brewed cider.
- Visit during Troménie, a local religious festival held every six years (next in 2025).
Tip: Bring rain gear—Brittany is known for sudden showers, but it only adds to the mystique.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Locronan
📍 Manoir de Moëllien – Locronan
✨ Just 3 minutes from the village center, this elegant manor offers classic Breton architecture, garden views, and a peaceful countryside vibe—perfect for cultural stays.
Book on Expedia
📍 Hôtel Le Clos de Vallombreuse – Douarnenez
✨ About 15 minutes from Locronan, this seafront hotel has an on-site restaurant, beautiful gardens, and heated pool—ideal for families who want beach access too.
Book on Expedia
💡 Tip: Locronan is tiny and walkable—staying nearby gives you flexibility while enjoying quieter evenings and better availability, especially during festivals like Troménie.
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Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Provence)
Nestled between towering cliffs and known for its stunning pottery, Moustiers is often called the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon (France’s Grand Canyon).
Why it’s special: The village is built into a rocky mountainside, with a golden star mysteriously suspended between two cliffs above the town.
What to do:
- Hike to the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel for sweeping canyon views.
- Kayak or paddleboard in the turquoise waters of the nearby Verdon Gorge.
- Shop for faïence pottery, a local craft dating back centuries.
Tip: A fantastic stop on a Provence road trip. Families will love combining nature and heritage in one destination.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
📍 La Bastide de Moustiers – Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
✨ A boutique countryside inn founded by chef Alain Ducasse. With Provençal charm, on-site dining, and views of the mountains, it’s perfect for couples or cultural travelers.
Book on Expedia
📍 Hôtel Les Restanques de Moustiers – Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
✨ Located within walking distance to the village, this peaceful hotel has family-friendly rooms, a lovely terrace, and private parking—great for road-tripping visitors.
Book on Booking.com
📍 Hôtel Le Colombier – Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
✨ Surrounded by olive trees and cliffs, this hotel offers a relaxing outdoor pool, hot tub, and direct access to Verdon Gorge adventures. Excellent for families and nature lovers.
Book on Expedia
💡 Tip: Moustiers gets popular during summer and weekends—book ahead to stay close to the village and make the most of your Gorges du Verdon explorations.
🎟️ Planning to explore these charming French villages?
From lavender-scented abbeys in Gordes to panoramic hikes in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and medieval tours in Pérouges, many local experiences can be reserved ahead of time. Trusted platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide offer guided day trips, skip-the-line entries, and nature excursions around these towns.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Try checking the attraction’s official website for local tour schedules or ticket info.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Occitanie)
This gravity-defying village clings to a cliffside above the Lot River and was once voted France’s favorite village.
Why it’s special: With no cars in the village center and panoramic views from every angle, Saint-Cirq is a peaceful dreamscape that feels like a living painting.
What to do:
- Meander through its medieval lanes, still home to potters and artisans.
- Visit the ruins of the castle for unbeatable river valley views.
- Rent a kayak and paddle below the village for a unique perspective.
Tip: Perfect for slow-travelers, writers, and romantic getaways. Avoid peak July crowds if you can.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
📍 Hôtel Spa La Truite Dorée – Vers
✨ Set in a charming riverside village just 20 minutes away, this relaxing spa hotel offers wellness amenities and a peaceful retreat—great for couples and nature lovers.
Book on Booking.com
📍 Hôtel-Spa Le Saint Cirq – Tour-de-Faure
✨ Located just across the river from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, this countryside hotel offers a spa, pool, and stunning views of the cliffside village—perfect for slow travel getaways.
Book on Expedia
📍 Domaine de Saint-Géry – Lendou-en-Quercy
✨ A serene rural escape about 35 minutes away offering organic farm-to-table cuisine, lush grounds, and an intimate atmosphere for travelers seeking authenticity and calm.
Book on Expedia
💡 Tip: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is car-free in its core, so staying just outside and walking or biking in makes the experience even more magical—especially at sunrise or sunset.
Test Your Travel Smarts with Our Quizzes!
Think you know your way around the world? From cultural traditions to hidden gems, our short and playful travel quizzes are the perfect way to challenge yourself, learn something new, and maybe even spark your next adventure. Great for anyone who loves a bit of travel trivia fun!
Memorable Mentions (Bonus Villages Worth Your Radar)
France has no shortage of stunning small towns. If you’re planning a longer trip or want to keep a few extras in your back pocket, here are more worthy contenders:
- Riquewihr (Alsace): Like Eguisheim but bigger, bolder, and Christmas market heaven.
- Sainte-Enimie (Gorges du Tarn): For a riverside stay with hiking and kayaking.
- Lagrasse (Occitanie): A haven for book-lovers and history buffs alike.
🗺️ Planning a Road Trip Through France’s Hidden Gems?
Designing the perfect journey through France’s lesser-known villages doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re craving charming markets, scenic walks, or family-friendly detours, our free AI-powered itinerary builder crafts a step-by-step travel plan tailored to your style and pace.
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Conclusion – Let the Journey Surprise You
Traveling through France’s small towns is like flipping through the country’s most heartfelt love letters—each one penned in cobblestone, filled with the scent of fresh bread, and sealed with a sunset over quiet rooftops.
Whether you’re meandering through the red-hued lanes of Collonges-la-Rouge or kayaking beneath the cliffs of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, these hidden gems offer more than just picturesque views. They invite connection—to the culture, the locals, and to the moment itself.
So, next time you plan your French adventure, skip the standard checklist. Instead, slow down, veer off course, and discover the villages where France truly comes alive. Your family will thank you, your curiosity will be rewarded, and your memories will last a lifetime.
👉 Which of these small towns would you most love to visit? Leave a comment below or share your favorite hidden gem in France—let’s inspire each other’s next great escape.
Your Ultimate Travel Companion
FAQ: Visiting France’s Hidden Small Towns
Q: Are these small towns in France suitable for families with young children?
A: Absolutely. Many of the towns featured—like Locronan, Eguisheim, and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie—offer car-free centers, open squares, and slower-paced sightseeing perfect for kids. You’ll also find plenty of outdoor space, markets, and family-run accommodations that are welcoming to travelers with children.
Q: What’s the best way to get around these villages if I don’t want to drive?
A: While some towns are easiest reached by car (like Gordes or Collonges-la-Rouge), others such as Pérouges or Eguisheim can be visited via public transport from major cities. For planning seamless train and bus routes, tools like Omio can be incredibly helpful.
Q: When is the best time to visit these lesser-known villages in France?
A: Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal for fewer crowds, mild weather, and scenic views. Some towns, like Gordes and Moustiers, are especially magical during lavender season in late June and early July.
Q: How many days should I spend exploring small towns in France?
A: A week allows for a relaxed itinerary covering 3–5 villages, especially if grouped by region (e.g., Provence or Alsace). These towns are perfect for slow travel, so give yourself time to linger and explore at your own pace.
Q: Are these destinations budget-friendly compared to big cities like Paris or Nice?
A: Generally, yes. Accommodations and dining in small towns tend to be more affordable. Local markets, bakeries, and guesthouses offer great value, especially if you plan ahead. Booking.com and Hotels.com often list charming B&Bs and small hotels with flexible pricing options.
Q: Can I use Wise for travel money in these villages?
A: Definitely. Wise is a reliable option for international travelers wanting to avoid high exchange fees. You can use your Wise card for contactless payments in shops, restaurants, and even markets where cards are accepted—especially helpful in less touristy areas.
Q: Do I need to speak French to enjoy these villages?
A: While knowing basic French phrases helps, it’s not essential. Many locals are welcoming and accustomed to travelers. A friendly attitude and a translation app go a long way, especially in smaller, less commercial towns.
Q: What are the top cultural experiences to look out for in these villages?
A: Look for traditional markets, historical walking tours, local food specialties (like galette au sucre or faïence pottery), and seasonal festivals like Troménie in Brittany. Each town has its own unique heritage that adds depth to your visit.
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