1. Nimes
Nestled in the glorious countryside of southern France, Nimes is an often-underrated Roman city that's perfect for a long weekend escape. Its rich history is palpable as you wander its beautiful streets. It offers a slower pace of life, ideal for focusing on work before stepping out to explore ancient wonders.
Roman Amphitheatre: A remarkably preserved arena that still hosts events today.
Maison Carrée: See one of the best-preserved Roman temples right in the city center.
Pont du Gard: A short trip from the city takes you to this breathtaking 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct. You can kayak on the river below or stroll along nearby trails.
Nomad Tip: Book tickets for the main attractions in advance, especially during peak season, to maximize your exploration time. A half-day tour including the nearby town of Uzes is a great way to see the highlights efficiently.
2. Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a historical gem that feels like stepping into a fairytale. This quintessential French city oozes charm, with its UNESCO-protected citadel being one of the most iconic sights in Europe. It's an inspiring place to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse yourself in medieval history.
Cité de Carcassonne: Explore the famous walled citadel, a true European icon.
Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse: A stunning example of Gothic-Romanesque architecture within the city walls.
Château de Quéribus: A worthwhile day trip to a ruined castle offering panoramic views of the region.
Nomad Tip: The castle queues can be long. Save precious time by booking queue-jump tickets online beforehand.
3. Bordeaux
Known for its world-class wine, Bordeaux is a delicious and lovely spot to base yourself while exploring western France. The city itself is a blend of grand architecture, bustling streets, and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. It's large enough to offer all the amenities a nomad needs while retaining its unique charm.
La Cité du Vin: An immersive museum dedicated to the region's wine culture, complete with a tasting.
Porte Cailhau: A fairytale-like historic city gate that offers great photo opportunities.
Calle Santa Catalina: Wander this vibrant street, popping into local cafes and shops.
Nomad Tip: Plan for around 5 days to truly appreciate Bordeaux and its surrounding wine country. Booking tickets for La Cité du Vin in advance is highly recommended.
4. Lille
Located in northern France, Lille is compact, walkable, and perfect for a 2-3 day visit. Its size means you can easily explore its key sights on foot without feeling overwhelmed, making it an excellent choice for a productive yet relaxing city break. Its Flemish influence gives it a distinct architectural style.
Place du Général de Gaulle: Hunt for unique finds at the vintage market stands in the city's main square.
Pâtisserie Méert: An absolute institution. Treat yourself to their famous cakes, waffles, and decadent hot chocolate.
Nomad Tip: A guided walking tour is a fantastic way to quickly get your bearings and see the most iconic places.
5. Montpellier
On the southern tip of France, Montpellier is a beautiful city that perfectly blends history, a cool modern vibe, and gorgeous scenery. Steeped in history, its energetic student population gives it a youthful buzz, with plenty of cool bars and events to enjoy after a day's work.
Montpellier Cathedral: An imposing and impressive Gothic cathedral.
Promenade du Peyrou: The perfect spot for a stroll on a sunny afternoon.
Marché du Lez: For a different vibe, check out this trendy market area with food trucks and events.
6. Aix-en-Provence
Not far from Marseille, Aix-en-Provence is a historically pretty city with a young and vibrant feel. It's famous for its fountains, elegant streets, and as the home of Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. It’s an art lover's paradise and a beautiful base for exploring Provence.
Cézanne’s Studio: Step into the world of the famous painter and explore his preserved studio.
Pavillon Vendôme: Even if you're not an art fanatic, the incredible grounds and stunning collections are worth a visit.
7. Paris
No list of French cities is complete without Paris. While it's a world-renowned tourist hub, it's also a city where a digital nomad can thrive. Look beyond the main attractions to find quiet cafes, inspiring museums, and endless opportunities for exploration. The key is to plan ahead to make the most of this incredible city.
Eiffel Tower: A classic for a reason. Book skip-the-line tickets to see it at sunset for a truly magical experience.
River Cruise: See the city's landmarks from a different perspective on a relaxing Seine river cruise.
Day Trips: Disneyland Paris is a quick 20-minute train ride away for a fun-filled break.
Nomad Tip: Paris is full of free things to do, from strolling through its best markets to visiting the hidden Statue of Liberty on the Île aux Cygnes.
8. Lyon
Known as Lugdunum in Roman times, Lyon is a city with a rich history that rivals Nimes. The Romans arrived over 2,000 years ago, laying the foundations for many of the landmarks you can see today. It's also celebrated as France's gastronomic capital, making it a dream for foodies.
Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): Get lost in the charming cobblestone streets of one of Europe's most extensive Renaissance neighborhoods.
Traboules Passageways: Discover the city's famous hidden passageways, used by silk merchants.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Hike or take the funicular up for stunning views over the city.
Nomad Tip: On a hot day, a guided river cruise is a relaxing way to see the sights and learn about the city's history.
9. Marseille
As France's oldest city, Marseille has a bustling, energetic vibe that sets it apart from quieter towns. Located on the southern coast, it can feel a little 'rough around the edges' but is packed with character, from its beautiful old port to its historic districts.
Old Port (Vieux-Port): The heart of the city, totally beautiful and bustling with life.
Le Panier: Explore the city's oldest and most colorful district.
Calanques National Park: Take a cruise along the stunning Mediterranean coastline to see these dramatic limestone cliffs and coves.
10. Nantes
An often-underrated city, Nantes was once the beating heart of France's biggest shipyards. Today, it's a creative and innovative city, famous for the fantastical mechanical creations of Les Machines de l'île.
Château of the Dukes of Brittany: An iconic and beautifully restored castle in the heart of the city.
Jules Verne Museum: A tribute to the famous author who was born in Nantes.
Natural History Museum of Nantes: A great rainy-day option with thousands of fascinating artifacts.
11. Avignon
Famous for its medieval bridge, Avignon boasts a rich history as the one-time capital of the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages. The colossal palace built by the popes in the 14th century dominates the city and is a must-see. The city has a lively arts scene, especially in the summer.
Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes): Explore one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
Pont d'Avignon: The famous bridge that now only stretches partway across the Rhône.
Nomad Tip: Visit in the summer to experience the city's vibrant energy, but be prepared for bustling crowds in July due to the famous Festival d'Avignon.
12. Nice
Combining the best of coastal living with urban exploration, Nice is a gem on the French Riviera. With its pretty beaches, historic old town, and stunning coastal walks, it's an ideal base for nomads who love the sun and sea. The city offers a perfect mix of relaxation and culture.
Vieille Ville (Old Town): Wander through the narrow, colorful streets, discovering cute cafes and local shops.
Promenade des Anglais: Stroll or cycle along this famous waterfront promenade.
Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice: An iconic and unique Russian Orthodox cathedral, a surprising and beautiful sight.
13. Toulouse
Known as 'La Ville Rose' (The Pink City) due to its distinctive terracotta brick architecture, Toulouse has a young, vibrant feel. Located in the southwestern fringes of France, it's a hub of culture and science with a laid-back atmosphere.
Basilique Saint-Sernin: A magnificent example of Romanesque architecture and a key stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.
Place du Capitole: The impressive main square, home to the city hall and theatre.
Japanese Garden: A peaceful oasis perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Nomad Tip: Toulouse is a great starting point for a day trip to the quaint and beautiful city of Carcassonne.
14. Rouen
As the capital of Normandy in northern France, Rouen is a city steeped in history, most famously as the place where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. It can seem quieter than big-hitters like Paris, offering a more chilled and relaxing atmosphere for exploration with fewer crowds.
Le Gros-Horloge: An iconic astronomical clock from the 14th century in the heart of the city.
Rouen Cathedral: Famously painted by Claude Monet in a series of works.
Botanical Garden of Rouen: Considered one of France's best, and entry is free.
