10 BEST places to visit in France in April

Planning a spring trip to France? April is a brilliant time to explore the country, with fewer tourists, lively streets, and plenty to see and do across both cities and the countryside.

Whether you love cosy villages, famous landmarks, quiet coastlines, or tasty local food, France has something special waiting for you.

From charming old towns to scenic wine regions, this month is perfect for getting out and discovering new places.

In this guide, you’ll find the 10 BEST places to visit in France in April, each full of beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

1) Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a city full of world-famous sights, beautiful streets, and exciting things to do.

You can spend hours exploring landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, each one telling a different story about the city’s long history. Paris is also perfect for just walking around—whether you're strolling along the River Seine, relaxing in a park, or enjoying a croissant at a pavement café.

The Champs-Élysées and Montmartre areas offer a mix of shops, art, and views, while smaller neighbourhoods like Le Marais are full of charm and hidden corners. The city is also known for its food, from bakeries and crepe stands to cosy bistros serving classic French dishes.

Whether you're seeing famous art, climbing to a rooftop for a view, or simply watching life go by from a café, Paris is the kind of place that always leaves you wanting to come back.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Paris

1. What are the must-see attractions in Paris?

Top spots include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur, and the Champs-Élysées. Don’t forget to enjoy the parks, bakeries, and local shops too.

2. What can you do in Paris besides sightseeing?

You can take a boat ride on the Seine, shop at street markets, explore unique neighbourhoods, or enjoy a meal at a traditional French bistro.

3. Is Paris easy to explore on foot?

Yes! Many of the best areas are walkable, and wandering the streets is one of the best ways to discover the city’s hidden gems.

2) Provence

Provence, in the south of France, is a peaceful region full of charming villages, olive groves, colourful markets, and lovely countryside views.

It's the kind of place where life moves slowly, and there’s always something beautiful to look at, from stone houses with blue shutters to quiet town squares filled with cafés and fountains.

Towns like Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Gordes are perfect for exploring, each with its own local traditions, art, and food. You can walk through small streets, visit old churches, and stop at family-run bakeries or shops selling lavender products, honey, and handmade soaps.

The region is also known for its strong food culture—things like fresh bread, goat cheese, and tapenade are easy to find at the local markets. With its mix of history, nature, and everyday charm, Provence is perfect for anyone who wants to experience a quieter, more relaxed side of France that’s full of colour, flavour, and simple joys.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Provence

1. What is Provence known for?

Provence is famous for its hilltop villages, local markets, and beautiful countryside, offering a calm and authentic French experience.

2. What can you do in Provence?

You can explore old towns, enjoy local food, visit traditional markets, and take scenic drives through vineyards and olive fields.

3. Is Provence a good place to slow down and relax?

Yes! It’s one of the best places in France to enjoy peaceful days, take in the scenery, and discover local life at a gentle pace.

3) Annecy

Annecy, in the French Alps, is a picture-perfect town known for its clear lake, mountain views, and charming canals that have earned it the nickname “the Venice of the Alps.”

The town centre is full of colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and little bridges, making it a lovely place to walk around and take photos. One of the best things to do is stroll along Lake Annecy, where the water is bright blue and the paths are perfect for biking or relaxing by the shore.

You can visit the old château on the hill, explore the markets, or stop at a café for a slice of local cheese tart. The mix of lakeside beauty and alpine charm makes Annecy feel both peaceful and full of life. It’s also a great spot for trying regional food like raclette and fondue, especially after a long walk or boat ride.

Whether you enjoy nature, history, or just want to relax in a stunning setting, Annecy is a perfect destination to explore.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Annecy

1. What is Annecy best known for?

Annecy is best known for its breathtaking lake, charming old town, and unique canal system, which gives it a romantic, peaceful feel. It's also recognised for its mix of Alpine and French culture, stunning mountain views, and outdoor lifestyle. People often visit to enjoy both relaxing lakefront moments and fun outdoor activities.

2. What can you do in Annecy?

In Annecy, you can cycle or walk around the lake, take a boat ride or paddleboard on the water, and explore the narrow streets and old buildings of the town centre. A visit to Château d’Annecy is a must for those who enjoy history and great views.

3. Is Annecy good for a short trip or a longer stay?

Annecy works well for both a weekend break and a longer holiday. A short trip gives you enough time to enjoy the lake, visit the town centre, and try the local food. If you stay longer, you can take day trips into the Alps, visit nearby villages, go hiking or skiing (in winter), and really soak up the relaxed pace of life the town is known for.

4) Lyon

Lyon, located in the heart of France, is a city full of history, charm, and amazing food. It’s known as the food capital of France, with lots of cosy restaurants called bouchons where you can try tasty local dishes like sausages, cheese, and rich stews.

The city is also packed with things to see, like the Old Town (Vieux Lyon), where you can wander through narrow streets, spot hidden passageways called traboules, and visit grand churches such as Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which sits on a hill with lovely views of the whole city.

Lyon has two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône, and the area between them is full of shops, museums, and cafés. You can also relax in Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the biggest parks in France, which has a lake, zoo, and gardens.

With its mix of culture, food, and local life, Lyon is a great place to visit if you want to experience the true heart of French living.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Lyon

1. What is Lyon famous for?

Lyon is most famous for its incredible food scene, especially its bouchons—small, traditional restaurants serving hearty local meals. It’s also known for its Roman history, Renaissance architecture, and being a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with beautiful buildings and hidden alleyways.

2. What can you do in Lyon?

There’s a lot to explore, including wandering through the Old Town, discovering the secret traboules, visiting the Basilica of Fourvière, and walking along the rivers. You can also enjoy local markets, try French pastries, and spend time in parks or museums like the Musée des Confluences.

3. Is Lyon a good place for families and first-time visitors?

Yes! Lyon is easy to get around, has a relaxed pace, and offers a great mix of activities for all ages. Whether you're interested in history, food, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Lyon is welcoming and full of things to enjoy.

5) Bordeaux

Bordeaux, in southwestern France, is a stylish city known for its elegant streets, riverside views, and strong connection to wine and culture.

The city centre is full of grand buildings, wide squares, and beautiful landmarks like the Place de la Bourse, which reflects perfectly in the nearby water mirror known as the Miroir d’Eau. You can walk or cycle along the Garonne River, explore lively markets, and visit the Cité du Vin, a modern museum all about wine and its history.

Bordeaux is also a great place for food lovers, with plenty of cosy restaurants and bakeries offering everything from fine meals to local treats like canelés, a small caramelised cake.

Just outside the city, you’ll find famous wine regions where you can take tours of vineyards and châteaux, learning how the area became one of the top wine producers in the world. With its blend of historic charm, modern life, and world-class wine, Bordeaux is a city that feels relaxed, refined, and full of character.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bordeaux

1. What is Bordeaux best known for?

Bordeaux is best known for its wine culture, elegant architecture, and beautiful riverfront. It’s one of the most famous wine regions in the world and also a city filled with museums, art, and historic sites.

2. What can you do in Bordeaux?

You can walk through the city’s historic centre, visit the Cité du Vin, explore the Place de la Bourse, and enjoy a tasting tour at nearby vineyards. There are also markets, gardens, and plenty of local cafés to enjoy.

3. Is Bordeaux good for a weekend break or longer stay?

Absolutely. Bordeaux works well for a short city break, but with its nearby wine routes, riverside villages, and relaxed pace, it’s also perfect for a longer stay if you want to slow down and explore.

6) Strasbourg

Strasbourg, in northeastern France, is a city that blends French and German influences in a way that feels both unique and charming. Its most famous feature is the Strasbourg Cathedral, a stunning gothic building with detailed carvings and one of the tallest church towers in Europe—you can even climb to the top for amazing views.

The city’s Old Town, especially the area called La Petite France, is full of half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and peaceful canals, making it a perfect place for a slow walk and great photos. Strasbourg is also the home of the European Parliament, so it has an important role in modern Europe too.

You’ll find lots of local restaurants serving tasty dishes like tarte flambée and pretzels, reflecting its mix of cultures. Boat tours on the river, small museums, and pretty parks add even more to the experience.

With its mix of history, beauty, and culture, Strasbourg is a city that’s full of surprises and well worth a visit.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Strasbourg

1. What is Strasbourg famous for?

Strasbourg is famous for its gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and role as a centre for European politics. It stands out for its mix of French and German culture, which you can see in the food, language, and buildings.

2. What are the best things to do in Strasbourg?

You can explore La Petite France, climb the cathedral tower, take a boat tour through the canals, and try local Alsatian food. There are also museums, markets, and beautiful bridges all around the city.

3. Is Strasbourg good for families and first-time visitors?

Yes! It’s a safe, walkable city with a relaxed vibe and lots of interesting sights. Whether you enjoy architecture, history, or just discovering pretty places, Strasbourg is easy to enjoy and very memorable.

7) Nice

Nice, on the French Riviera, is a bright and lively city known for its blue sea, sunny coastline, and colourful old town.

One of its most famous spots is the Promenade des Anglais, a long walkway by the beach where people ride bikes, skate, or just sit and enjoy the view. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) is a maze of narrow streets filled with local markets, little shops, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and Provençal dishes.

You can visit places like the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for amazing views over the city and sea, or relax in one of the many public squares with a cold drink or ice cream. Nice also has great art museums, including ones dedicated to Matisse and Chagall, both of whom lived nearby.

With its mix of city life, seaside charm, and relaxed Mediterranean vibe, Nice is a fun and beautiful place that’s perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy both culture and the coast.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Nice

1. What is Nice known for?

Nice is best known for its Mediterranean coastline, the Promenade des Anglais, and its lively old town. It’s a popular spot for beach lovers and also has a strong connection to art, food, and music.

2. What can you do in Nice?

You can walk along the seafront, explore the colourful streets of Vieux Nice, visit museums, and take short trips to nearby towns like Monaco or Cannes. There are also great spots for swimming, shopping, and trying local dishes.

3. Is Nice a good place for a holiday?

Yes! Nice offers a great mix of beach time, sightseeing, and relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers who want sunshine and culture in one destination.

8) Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, often called the "Garden of France," is a stunning region filled with fairy-tale castles, peaceful rivers, and pretty countryside villages.

It’s one of the best places in France to see beautiful old châteaux, like Château de Chambord with its fancy towers and Château de Chenonceau, which stretches across the River Cher like a bridge. Many of these castles have lovely gardens where you can walk around and feel like you’re in a storybook.

The towns in the Loire Valley, such as Amboise, Blois, and Tours, are full of charm, with cobbled streets, local markets, and small cafés perfect for relaxing. You can also enjoy bike rides along the Loire River, visit vineyards, and try delicious local food like goat cheese and fruit tarts.

With its mix of history, natural beauty, and peaceful pace, the Loire Valley is a dream destination for anyone who loves castles, culture, and the French countryside.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Loire Valley

1. Why is the Loire Valley famous?

The Loire Valley is famous for its many castles, charming villages, and scenic landscapes. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of France’s top regions for history and nature lovers.

2. What are the best things to do in the Loire Valley?

You can visit grand castles, walk through their gardens, cycle along the Loire River, explore historic towns, and enjoy local wine and food from nearby farms and vineyards.

3. Is the Loire Valley good for a family trip or a romantic holiday?

Yes! The Loire Valley is perfect for both. Families will love the castles and open spaces, while couples can enjoy peaceful walks, riverside picnics, and charming towns full of character and French charm.

9) Dijon

Dijon, in the Burgundy region of France, is a lovely city known for its rich history, colourful buildings, and delicious food.

Walking through the old town feels like stepping into the past, with its half-timbered houses, grand squares, and Gothic churches all carefully preserved. The city is famous for Dijon mustard, but there’s so much more to taste, from creamy cheeses to rich beef stews and local wines.

You can follow the Owl’s Trail, a fun walking path marked by little brass owl symbols that takes you to the city’s top sights, including the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the lively Les Halles market. Dijon is also a great place for learning about art and history, with free museums and hidden courtyards around every corner.

Whether you're sampling food at a market, exploring quiet streets, or sitting in a sunny café, Dijon is full of charm and perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy a relaxed and flavourful French city.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Dijon

1. What is Dijon known for besides mustard?

Dijon is known for its beautiful old town, rich Burgundy food and wine, and the Owl’s Trail, which guides visitors through the city’s historic spots in a fun and easy way.

2. What can you do in Dijon?

You can explore historic buildings, visit museums, shop at the covered market, and enjoy traditional meals at local restaurants. The city is also a great starting point for visiting nearby vineyards.

3. Is Dijon a good place to visit for a short city break?

Yes! Dijon is easy to explore on foot, full of culture and great food, and not as busy as some bigger cities, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing and tasty weekend away.

10) Colmar

Colmar, in the Alsace region of France, looks like it’s been taken straight from a fairy tale, with its colourful timber-framed houses, flower-filled windows, and peaceful canals.

The town’s most famous area, known as Little Venice, is a lovely place to walk along the water, take a boat ride, or simply admire the reflections of the buildings in the canal. Colmar’s old town is full of narrow streets, market squares, and buildings that date back hundreds of years, making it a joy to explore on foot.

You’ll find small museums, cosy cafés, and plenty of places to try local Alsatian dishes like flammekueche (a thin, crispy tart topped with cheese and onions). The town is also known for its links to art and history, with landmarks such as the Unterlinden Museum and beautiful churches.

With its bright buildings, quiet charm, and mix of French and German culture, Colmar is a magical place that feels like stepping into another world.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Colmar

1. What is Colmar famous for?

Colmar is known for its storybook streets, half-timbered houses, and canal area called Little Venice. It’s also famous for its blend of French and German influences in both architecture and food.

2. What can you do in Colmar?

You can explore the old town on foot, take a boat ride through the canals, visit local museums, and enjoy regional specialities at cafés or outdoor markets. The town is also a great base for visiting the Alsace Wine Route.

3. Is Colmar a good place for a relaxing holiday?

Yes! Colmar is peaceful, full of charm, and easy to explore, making it perfect for couples, families, or solo travellers looking for a slow-paced, beautiful place to visit.

There you have it! These are 10 of the best places located in France, perfect for your next adventure in April! Whether you plan to do a road trip around France in April or are visiting for a long weekend, you should definitely check out some of these places!

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!