Where to Stay in France – 12 Coolest Places in the Country!

Ready to explore le pays d’amour? Then let’s start this guide on where to stay in France!

I’ve visited this country a lot of times! With each trip I fell more in love with it and also learned so many tips about traveling to France. I’ve included them all in this post along with a list of the best 12 places to stay and hotels for all budgets in each of those towns or regions. 

In short, Paris is the best area to stay for first-timers as the capital has incredible attractions, but if you’re planning to visit more areas, definitely check the other 11 that I’ve included. 

I’d recommend booking your hotels in advance, no matter which part of the country you’re visiting (especially if you’re traveling during the summer months), as France is always packed with tourists. 

NOTE: The destination you’ll pick will depend heavily on the type of holiday that you’re looking to have, so definitely keep that in mind when going through the post!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Eager to book the best hotel for your trip to France right now? Then check out the list below it has the top accommodations in Paris: 

Before we get started, check out the map below! It will help you visualize all the areas where to stay in France that I’ll talk about in this post:

1. Paris – where to stay in France for the first time

author of the posts in a blue dress sits on a stone ledge, overlooking the Eiffel Tower in Paris on a cloudy day. The scene includes greenery, paths, and a fountain in the foreground.

One never forgets their first time in Paris! I certainly did not, and as I went back I fell even more in love with this city, and I’m sure you will too!

Paris is like a love poem, so romantic and so incredibly sweet (it’s probably from all their delicious desserts)! 

The city is packed with incredible attractions that you shouldn’t miss out on like the Eiffel Tower (here’s a post on how you can buy your ticket), the Louvre Museum, Musee D’Orsay, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

These are just some of the capital’s attractions though, there are many others to discover! And if you’re looking for something a bit more different, check out our post with unusual things to do in Paris.

Paris is split into 20 different neighborhoods called “arrondissements” where you’ll find countless hotels. Definitely read our post with the best areas to stay in Paris so that you’ll find something convenient for your needs.

As the country’s capital, Paris is always busy and humming with energy and I’m sure that while you’re here you’ll want to indulge in all the delicious food. Here’s a post with some of the best restaurants in Paris that you can try out on your trip. 

For those wondering how to get around the city, Paris has a metro system that you can use to get pretty much anywhere. You could also use buses, trams or rent a bike. I wouldn’t encourage you to rent a car in this city, as the roads are pretty busy. 

Depending on how much time you have on your hands, I’d definitely suggest visiting some iconic sites near the city, like Disneyland Paris (check out this post on how to get tickets), which is set around 40 min away by public transport, from central Paris. And there’s also the famous Versailles Palace, which is also a 40 min journey away by public transport. 

Luxury hotel

Fancy staying in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte while admiring the breathtaking Eiffel Tower views? This hotel is decorated with vintage, custom-made pieces and each room has a marble bathroom where you can relax! After a day out indulge in a fab dinner at the Michelin-star restaurants and chill in the pool.

Other accommodation options in Paris

Mid-range

This stylish hotel has comfortable rooms with large windows, a restaurant, and a terrace

budget

An affordable place to stay in Paris that offers uniquely-decorated rooms and free Wi-Fi 

airbnb

With a great location near the Louvre, this place has a small kitchen with a fridge 

Things to do in Paris

  • Admire the panoramic views from the Eiffel Tower
  • Visit the unique Louvre Museum
  • Explore the beautiful Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
  • Take the kids to Disneyland Paris
  • Check out the art at Musée d’Orsay
  • Walk around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
  • Go shopping on Champs-Élysées (map) in Paris

2. Lyon – best place to stay in France for foodies

A row of colorful buildings stands at the base of a hill, atop which sits a prominent white basilica and a tall metal tower surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.

Welcome to Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the second largest city in the country!

Known as a gastronomy hub, this town is packed with fabulous restaurants where you can eat delicious French food and enjoy lots of cultural attractions!

Lyon is also the birthplace of Paul Bocuse, one of the country’s most famous chefs, It was also the home to the famous author of the Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. 

I visited Lyon a while ago and found it to be such an exciting city! You’ll also find an international airport here, so you could fly directly here. 

There are around 4000 restaurants in this city! Yep, you read that well, and you should definitely check out the Bouchons Lyonnais, which are the specific bistros of Lyon! Auberge des canuts (map) is a really great one where the food is super yummy. 

If you’re planning to spend a few days here, definitely check our post on where to stay in Lyon, you’ll find the top areas there and a wider range of hotels, besides the short list I included below.

Known as a “mini-Paris”, Lyon is filled with different attractions, but it’s not as crowded as Paris is! Life has a much slower pace here, and it’s an excellent place for people who want a tranquil trip. 

But there are plenty to see, trust me! Some places that you shouldn’t miss out here are the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière, the Parc de la Tête d’Or (map) which dates back to the 19th century and is home also to a Zoo, and the Musée Cinéma et Miniature.

The town has gorgeous architecture which you can admire in areas like Vieux Lyon (the Old Town) and Presqu’Ile (which literally translates to Peninsula).

Luxury hotel

With a minimalistic yet super clean and elegant design, this Lyon hotel sits just a short walk away from the attractions and restaurants. You’re going to love the rooms here as some of them come with river views and all the facilities you need. After a day of exploring, head to the spa where you can relax. 

Other accommodation options in Lyon

MID-RANGE

Set in a historical house, this hotel offers vintage-style rooms and a buffet breakfast

budget

Enjoy your stay in France in this modern hotel that has spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a sun terrace

airbnb

This cute studio is perfect for 2 guests as it offers privacy, a kitchen, and a shared backyard 

Things to do in Lyon

  • Admire the La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • Learn about anthropology at Musée des Confluences
  • Visit the old Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (map)
  • Enjoy the views in Place Bellecour (map)
  • Explore the lush Parc de la Tête d’Or
  • Eat delicious food on a food tour 
  • Visit the Musée Cinéma et Miniature

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3. Loire Valley – where to stay in France for history lovers

A historic castle with a round tower, and floral gardens adorned with pink and purple flowers under a clear blue sky.

We’ve reached the crown jewel of the country (and one of my favorite places ever), the beautiful Loire Valley!

Also known as the “Garden of France” this region is only a 2h drive away from Paris, which makes it the perfect day trip location if you’re based in the capital! 

Loire Valley is home to beautiful vineyards, and breathtaking landscapes!

There are many unique towns in Loire Valley (here’s a post on some of the best places to stay there), and all of them truly are a paradise for history lovers! 

Most of the towns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and filled with castles, gourmet bistros, and renaissance architecture.

author of the posts stands on a stone balcony overlooking a vast landscape of greenery and a long waterway under a cloudy sky.

Once you step foot in this place, you’ll feel like you’re in a whole other world, one where knights and damsels in distress still exist!

NOTE: In smaller towns like the ones you’ll find in Loire Valley and in some rural areas of the country lots of shops are closed on Sundays, Mondays and sometimes even Tuesdays. 

Some of the main touristy towns are Tours, where you can visit the Château de Tours, Amboise where you can check out Leonardo Da’Vinci’s final home Château du Clos Lucé and Saumur which is also just as charming as the other 2. 

Although you can rent a car, if you want to easily get from one town to the other, you can also explore the Valley by bike or public transport, as there are buses around.

P.S. You can actually sleep in one of the famous castles in Loire Valley! Here’s a post with some of the best château hotels (you’ll find options for all budgets here)!

Luxury hotel

You’ll never want to leave this château hotel! Located in Carquefou, the accommodation will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! Everything from the stylish and unique decors, to the restaurant and sun terrace will make you fall in love with it. During the day you can enjoy the sun by the outdoor pool and explore the grounds. 

Other accommodation options in Loire Valley 

MID-RANGE

Set near Chambord Castle, this hotel offers chic rooms with castle views, a games room, and a spa

budget

This affordable place has all the facilities you’ll need, including a kitchenette and a private bathroom

airbnb

How cool is this place made entirely out of stone with a patio and a garden

Things to do in Loire Valley 

  • Visit the stunning Saint-Gatien Cathedral (map)
  • Check out the wine cellar at Caves Louis de Grenelle (map)
  • Explore the grounds of Château de Tours
  • See Leonardo Da Vinci’s last home, the Château of Clos Lucé
  • Go on a bike tour and visit the wineries in Saumur

4. Nice – best place to stay in France for culture

Aerial view of a crowded beachfront city with numerous buildings, a busy promenade, and many people sunbathing and swimming in the sea.

Ahh, Nice… amazing weather, fabulous art, vivid colors and a point where different cultures merge together, in a never-ending dance!

It’s hard not to love this city! Located in the famous French Riviera, Nice offers access to world-known museums, gorgeous beaches and lots of restaurants where you can indulge in all the yummy food! 

I visited Nice a while ago, and like everybody else, I was left in awe of its beauty! 

The city is so culturally diverse. You’ll probably notice the Italian, English, and even pre-Roman influences here!

Nice is actually the 5th largest town in the country and it has countless museums that you should check out! Some of my favorites were the Marc Chagall National Museum, Villa Masséna Musée and the Matisse Museum. 

But let’s not forget the incredible seaside! 

You’ll want to run to the beach and cool off in the blue waters during those hot summer days. There are a couple of beaches where you can enjoy the sun and sea, like Plage Beau Rivage (map) and Plage Publique de Castel (map).

Most of them are near the Old Town, which is also a great spot to start your adventures as there are lots of sites to see there, plus you can admire all the colorful buildings and unique architecture. That’s also where you’ll find the Cathedral (map), which is so beautiful so definitely check it out!

Nice is close to lots of other amazing places like Monaco, which is only a 30 min train ride away. If you’re heading there, check out our post on things to do in Monaco!

Luxury hotel

Feel like a prince or princess at this fabulous hotel by the sea that has rooms with breathtaking ocean views! Each suite is decorated with vintage French furniture and has a designated place where you can enjoy your delicious breakfast. During the day, you can chill at the private beach area or on the hotel’s sun terrace. 

Other accommodation options in Nice

MID-RANGE

This hotel has a sun terrace and rooms with modern furnishings and a flat-screen Tv

Budget

An affordable place to stay in Nice near the beach that has family rooms with air-conditioning 

airbnb

Perfect for 2 guests, this studio comes with a small kitchen, a garden view and an elevator

Things to do in Nice

  • Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
  • Explore the Marc Chagall National Museum
  • Check out the art at Musée Matisse
  • Enjoy a sightseeing and tasting tour in Nice
  • Admire the panoramic views at Castle of Nice (map)
  • Go for a swim at Plage Beau Rivage

5. Corsica – where to stay in France in the summer

Aerial view of a coastal town with a marina filled with boats, surrounded by greenery and mountains in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Looking for the perfect summer destination in France?

Then I think you’ll definitely want to see this French island that is actually the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte!

Famous for its beaches, blue water, and mountain views, Corsica (also known as Corse or Island of Beauty), offers the perfect fusion of history, nature, and delicious food! 

There are countless towns where you can set base during your holiday and you’ll find lots of information on this in our post on where to stay in Corsica. Luckily the island isn’t so big, so if you rent a car you’ll get to drive from one end of the island to the other in a day (and that includes the stops along the way). 

If you don’t want to rent a car, you could also use the buses (however there are not that many so you’ll have to check the schedules and plan in advance) or you could use the train as well. 

Another way that you could explore Corsica would be to just stay in one town and then take tours from there, as there are lots that go around the island.

Some of the most popular towns on the island are Porto-Vecchio, Calvi, Cort and Bastia. All with an equal number of fab attractions like the Citadelle de Porto-Vecchio (map), the beaches in Calvi, the hiking trails in Cort and the clubs in Bastia. 

Luxury hotel

Spend a magical time in this 5-star hotel that offers breathtaking ocean views and an infinity pool. But that’s not all, with 5 different pools, a tennis court, and a spa center, it’ll be hard to ever leave this place! 

Other accommodation options in Corsica

MID-RANGE

Set just a short walk from the beach, this hotel has spacious rooms with a balcony

budget

Offering an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a great location near the beach, this budget hotel can’t be missed

airbnb

A stunning apartment perfect for 6 guests that has an infinity pool overlooking the sea and a kitchen 

Things to do in Corsica

  • Visit the Maison Bonaparte
  • Have fun on a boat tour
  • Go for a swim at Palombaggia beach (map)
  • Explore Place Saint Nicolas (map) in Bastia
  • Admire the views of the Calanques de Piana cliffs (map)
  • Enjoy a day of hiking in the Gorges de la Restonica (map)
  • Sunbathe on the soft sand at Plage du petit Sperone (map)

6. Marseille – best place to stay in France for budget travelers

Bird's-eye view of a marina filled with boats beside a historic fortress on a sunny day, with a cityscape and mountains in the background.

Welcome to the oldest city in France!

Yep, you head that right, Marseille is an ancient place with a rich history, a gorgeous port, art, yummy food and many other incredible things! 

This is one of the best cities on the Côte d’Azur, which undoubtedly you’ll fall in love with!

PRO TIP: Although the South of France is known for its very high prices on accommodation and food, you can totally visit this region on a budget by going there during the low season. So either from September to November or from April to late May. 

You can start your adventures in the morning around the Old Port area (map) where you’ll find lots of locals selling their catch of the day. If you’re into seafood, you’ll probably have a blast here! 

What’s great about Marseille is that it offers a bit of everything! Cultural attractions, nightlife, street art, boutique shops, you name it, you’ll probably find it here.

Some amazing sites that you shouldn’t miss out on while here are Abbaye Saint-Victor (map), Palais du Pharo, Marseille History Museum and the Church of Notre-Dame-du-Mont (map).

These are just some of them though! You’ll also find markets, more museums and of course some amazing beaches which you’ll mostly find in the La Corniche and ​​Roucas-Blanc areas.

Talking about areas, if you’re not sure which neighborhood would be the best for you, check this post with the top areas to stay in Marseille, where you’ll find a breakdown of the main places in town for tourists.

Luxury hotel

Leave it to the French to come up with such a fine mix of old and new decor! This hotel is set in a transformed 19th-century private mansion that has marble and parquet floors, columns, bas-relief sculptures, and rooms with designer furnishings. Another perk is the hotel’s location right near the beach!

Other accommodation options in Marseille 

budget

This modern apartment has lots of space, a seating area, and all the necessary facilities including a kitchen 

airbnb

You can’t get enough of the views of this chic apartment that offers beach access and a kitchen

Things to do in Marseille 

  • Visit the Mucem Museum
  • Learn some history at Fort Saint-Jean (map)
  • Enjoy the stunning views on a cruise
  • Cool off by the fountains in Parc Borély (map)
  • Snap a pic of the Palais Longchamp monument (map)
  • Go for a swim at Plage des Catalans (map)
  • Try some great seafood in the Vieux Port area 

7. Bordeaux – where to stay in France for wine lovers 

author of the posts sits on the pavement with a bicycle in front of historical buildings under a blue sky.

Red, white, sparkling, you name it! When it comes to French wine, I’d always go with the oldest ones!

Bordeaux is one of the country’s major viticulture spots! So there’s no better place to go if you are looking to enjoy your holiday with a glass in hand. 

Depending on what you want to see or do while you’re visiting the town you could stay in the city center where all the attractions are, or somewhere a little outside the city near all the wineries. You can find more about the areas in this post with the best places to stay in Bordeaux.

You can easily get around the city by tram, bus and even bicycle. If you want to visit some of the wineries outside the city, you could also use trams as some are connected to those areas. Or, of course you can rent a car, if you want to do a proper tour of those places. 

However, if you don’t have a lot of time in Bordeaux, don’t worry, there are lots of wine bars in the city as well, so you can try the delicious Bordeaux wines. Le Bar à Vin (map) and Aux Quatre Coins du Vin (map) are some great ones. 

Like other cities in France, this fun place is filled with cultural attractions, museums, and beautiful architecture. 

Some unique sites that you shouldn’t miss out while here are the Water Mirror in Place de la Bourse (map), Jardin Publique de Bordeaux (map), Musée d’Aquitaine and the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts.However there are many other fun attractions here, and you can learn all about them from this post on things to do in Bordeaux.

Luxury hotel

Sitt by the outdoor pool of this beautiful city hotel located just a short walk away from all the attractions! This modern accommodation has a garden with a terrace and there’s also a spa with a hot tub where you can relax and enjoy some pampering after exploring around for hours!

Other accommodation options in Bordeaux

budget

Featuring modern rooms with a private bathroom, this hotel also has a terrace and an on-site bar

airbnb

Enjoy your stay in France in this studio that’s well-equipped and has an indoor fireplace 

Things to do in Bordeaux

8. Cannes – best place to stay for movie enthusiasts

A coastal city with a marina filled with boats, surrounded by buildings and greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Welcome to one of the most famous towns in the world!

Set in the dreamy French Riviera, Cannes has a rich history and as you probably know, it’s the home of the famous Cannes Film Festival, which takes place each year at the end of May. 

As with most locations in the French Riviera, this resort town is filled with exclusive hotels, restaurants, and high-end shops. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t visit this town, even if you’re on a budget.

Although the resort town has become more popular since the Festival began, its history goes way back! And you can notice that while exploring the Old Town (Le Suquet), where you’ll find a lot of attractions like the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance (map) and Musée des Explorations du Monde (map).

Let’s not forget that we’ve got a beach here! 

Oh yes, Croisette beach (map) is the perfect place to enjoy the luxuriant way of living on the French Riviera. Cocktails at noon, wine in the evening, and great seafood in between, can it get any better?

Well, if you’re traveling at the end of May when the film festival takes place, I’m sure it can!By the way, if you’re planning to explore more places in this region, make sure you check out this South of France itinerary post, where you’ll find more incredible towns and tips on how to get around!

Luxury hotel

Make your holiday in the French Riviera unforgettable while staying at one of the best hotels in Cannes! The 5-star accommodation offers spacious suites with sea views, a private beach, and 3 restaurants! 

Other accommodation options in Cannes

MID-RANGE

Set near the beach, this hotel offers comfortable suites with a balcony, breakfast, and a terrace 

budget

This affordable b&b offers cozy rooms with a flat-screen Tv, a private bathroom, plus a shared kitchenette

airbnb

A great place in Cannes that comes with lots of space, a kitchen and air conditioning 

Things to do in Cannes

  • Visit the Notre Dame d’Esperance church
  • Shop until you drop in the Marché Forville market (map)
  • Check out the famous Palais des Festivals (map)
  • Spend a fun night at Casino De La Pointe (map)
  • Take an evening walk along the Promenade de la Croisette (map)

9. Lille – best place to stay in France for families

People walking and sitting at a café in a large open square with historic buildings and a tall clock tower in the background.

Planning a trip to France with the little ones? 

While the first stop may be at Disneyland in Paris, if you’re looking for a town that isn’t super crowded and offers kid-friendly activities, then I’d recommend Lille! 

Lille is located in Northern France, not too far from the border with Belgium. The town has unique museums, a zoo, and stunning architecture that will have you taking pictures every 5 minutes! Plus all the excellent food (I’m sure that’s important for all family members)! 

Start your days here by exploring the Lille Zoo (map) with the kids, which is set around the Citadel of Lille (map), which dates back to the 17th century (plenty to see there too).

In the central part of the city, you’ll find some amazing museums like the Natural History Museum where you can try some of their workshops and the Palais of Beaux Arts, where you can admire some beautiful art. 

If you’re looking for some fab restaurants where you can indulge in French cuisine, then head to Restaurant Sébastopol (map) and Beef Art (map).

Luxury hotel

Simple yet super chic and colorful! This hotel is set near the main train station and has spacious family suites with a flat-screen Tv. Start your morning with some room service, and then head out to explore the city with your fam!

Other accommodation options in Lile 

MID-RANGE

This hotel has a minimalistic design with modern furnishings, family rooms and a fitness center

budget

A cheap hotel that comes with rooms which overlook the city, a restaurant and a bar

airbnb

Such a lovely studio, perfect for 2 guests that has a kitchen and courtyard views 

Things to do in Lille

  • Admire the art at Palais des Beaux-Arts
  • Visit Notre Dame de la Treille (map)
  • Buy souvenirs from Place du Général de Gaulle (map)
  • Take the kids to the Zoo de Lille

10. French Alps – where to stay in France in winter

Snow-covered mountain village illuminated at dusk, with lights glowing from houses and streets, nestled among mountainous terrain under a twilight sky with a warm horizon glow.

Welcome to the French Alps, home to the highest mountains in Western Europe and truly a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts!

Although you can visit the French Alps during the summer for some incredible hiking and climbing, I think their beauty is highlighted best when the snow sticks to the ground.

It’s not only all the activities that bring people here, the landscapes are simply breathtaking. Their crystal clear lakes, pristine forests, and majestic mountains will make you fall in love with the place and want to move here.

Another thing that brings tourists from all over the world to visit the French Alps is the tranquil atmosphere. 

The fresh air, spa centers, and peaceful sites are just some of the perks that you’ll encounter here! 

Some of the main touristic towns in the French Alps are Aix-les-Bains known for its healing thermal baths that in the past attracted some big names like Queen Victoria of England and Edith Piaf. Then there’s also Saint-Véran, Beaufort-sur-Doron, Chambéry and Chamonix. 

Luxury hotel

Enjoy some pampering time at the spa center of this 5-star hotel, which boasts incredible mountain views! Sunbathe by the 2 swimming pools, eat delicious food at their restaurants and enjoy some fun activities like bike tours and hiking! 

Other accommodation options in the French Alpes

MID-RANGE

A rustic place to stay in France that offers an indoor pool, a Turkish bath, and a spa center

Budget

Chill by the pool of this hotel set near the ski lifts that has a pool and a spa center

airbnb

Chill in the jacuzzi of this rustic yet modern apartment that comes with a kitchen and free parking 

Things to do in the French Alps 

  • Hit the slopes in Chamonix 
  • Explore the beautiful old town in Annecy 
  • Go hiking in the Vercors Regional Natural Park (map)
  • Admire the art at Musée de l’Ancien Évêché in Grenoble
  • Relax in the famous resort town Aix-les-Bains

11. St. Tropez – where to stay in France for luxury

A wooden deck with a table and chairs under a large umbrella, surrounded by potted plants and overlooking snow-capped mountains.

Welcome to one of the most exclusive locations in the world!

St.Tropez is set in the French Riviera, and although a long time ago it was nothing more than a small fishing village, the tables have turned, and now the resort town has become the favorite holiday spot for celebrities like Bono and Leonardo DiCaprio!

There are quite a few areas where you can set base, but probably one of the best ones is the City Center, as you’ll be close to all the fab restaurants and historical buildings. And if you want to learn more about the touristy neighborhoods, check out this post with the best places to stay in Saint Tropez.

NOTE: Most of the hotels in St. Tropez are closed from October to May, so if you’re traveling during that time you should look to book an apartment.

Although most people know Saint Tropez for its yacht parties and celebrity sightings, which you can usually do on Pampelonne Beach (map), this town has much more to offer than that!

There are a couple of attractions that you shouldn’t miss out on while you’re here like the Citadelle de Saint-Tropez, Gendarmerie Nationale and the Tour Portalet (map).And if you’re looking for some stunning beaches where you can swim and enjoy the fab weather then check out Bouillabaisse beach (map).

Luxury hotel

Enjoy your stay in France in this 19th-century castle that offers a private beach area, a spa, and 2 swimming pools! Each suite has Italian-inspired or Provencal decoration, and most rooms come with a private balcony. 

Other accommodation options in St. Tropez

MID-RANGE

Set near the beach, this hotel has a furnished terrace, a garden, and modern-styled rooms with a balcony 

budget

Feel at home in this cozy apartment that offers family rooms, a restaurant and free Wi-Fi 

airbnb

A stunning loft that has a terrace overlooking the whole city, a kitchen and 2 rooms

Things to do in St. Tropez 

  • Explore the Old Port area
  • Enjoy the sun in Bouillabaisse beach
  • Visit the Gendarmerie Nationale museum 
  • Check out the shops in Place des Lices (map)
  • Admire the views from the St. Tropez Citadel

12. Mont Saint-Michel – most unique place to stay in France

Mont Saint-Michel, a historic island commune in Normandy, France, surrounded by water at high tide and reflecting in the calm water below, with a clear blue sky in the background.

I wanted to wrap up this post with a really unique place in France that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Mont Saint-Michel is one of my favorite sites, and indeed it offers some of the most amazing views! It’s also a super touristy spot, so make sure you book your accommodations in advance.

Before we get into the details, you should know that Mont Saint-Michel, which is set in the Normandy region, is made of a small town on the mainland and the island, which is technically the touristy part. 

This tiny island village was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for centuries it was one of Europe’s major pilgrimage destinations!

Legends say that Archbishop Aubert of Avranches founded an abbey back in 708 after he had a vision of Archangel Michael telling him to lay the foundations of this holy place.

Although the place is frequented by many tourists, you can still feel the local vibe in the surrounding area. Plus, the location is so iconic that undoubtedly you’ll get the chills while exploring it!

The best way to explore the island is to just walk around so that you can admire the architecture and visit attractions like the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel and the Jardins de la Croix de Jérusalem (map).

NOTE: The hotels you’ll see below are actually located near the famous island. Unfortunately, there are no great hotels inside Mont Saint-Michel, but I’ve made sure to choose the closest ones.

Luxury hotel

Set just a 10 min drive away from Mont Saint-Michel, this elegantly-decorated 5-star hotel has everything you need for your stay! Featuring a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace, the accommodation also offers bikes and free parking! 

Other accommodation options in Mont Saint-Michel 

MID-RANGE

Feel at home in this comfortable b&b that offers rooms with antique furniture and free breakfast 

budget

Affordable and so cute! This place offers a spacious garden, family rooms, and free parking 

airbnb

Perfect for a larger group, this cottage has a kitchen, spacious rooms, a garden, and free parking 

Things to do in Mont Saint-Michel 

  • Visit the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel
  • Admire the views from Tour du Nord (map)
  • Explore Maison de l’Artichaut (map)
  • Learn about Mont Saint-Michel’s history at Musée Historique
???? Top city in France: Paris
???? Best place for families: Lille
???? Most historic area: Loire Valley
???? Best city for foodies: Lyon
⛪ Most unique place:  Mont Saint-Michel 
???? Avg hotel price: €150

Other great places to stay in France

A bottle of wine, a wine glass, grapes, and cheese are set on a stone ledge overlooking a vineyard in autumn.

Since the country is absolutely packed with so many amazing sites, I thought I’d give you a short but concise list with some other holiday destinations in France that you could add to your itinerary and bucket list:

  • Champagne – set in the Northeast part of the country, this region is known for its sparkling white wine (as you’ve guessed from the name) and its numerous grapevines that produce the much-loved drink. The best way is to rent a car and explore although you can set base in Reims, the capital and take tours from there
  • Colmar – bordering Germany, this charming town is a true gem for history lovers as it is packed with half-timbered medieval and Renaissance buildings! Spend a few days exploring its cobble-stone streets and going and going on boat trips on its romantic canals
  • Strasbourg – a place where the German and French cultures merge! This town is perfect for a romantic getaway or for those who want to attend its famous Christmas market! Here’s a post with the best places to stay in Strasbourg if you’ve decided to go there
  • Provence – get ready to explore some charming cities, buy vintage things from small markets and eat yummy food! This charming area is rich in history and culture and if you’re headed there, definitely check out this post with the best hotels in Provence 
  • Toulouse – the capital of the country’s Occitanie region, this town is known as the “Pink City” thanks to its terracotta buildings. Here you’ll find amazing museums, gardens and churches 
  • Burgundy – a great region for wine lovers! Burgundy has it all: unique architecture, delicious wine and food and charming castles! 

FAQs about hotels in France

A person in a straw hat and white shirt holds a glass of wine while standing in a blooming lavender field.

???? Where to stay in France for a week?

Some of the best places to spend a week in France are the Loire Valley, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Corsica, and the French Alps. 

???? Which are the coolest places to stay in France?

Corsica, Paris, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera are some of the most beautiful places to stay in France!

???? Where to stay in France with your family?

???? Which are the best 5-star hotels in France?

???? Where’s the best place to stay in France for a month?

The best cities to stay in France for a month depends on your preferences. Consider Paris for a cosmopolitan experience, Provence for rustic charm, or Nice for coastal beauty.

???? Which part of France is cheapest?

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie and Hauts-de-France are some of the cheapest parts of France where you can explore idyllic cities and the charming countryside. 

???? Which part of France is most popular?

Some of the most popular cities in France are Paris, Lyon, Nice and Marseille.

???? Which part of France is most expensive?

Île-de-France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes are some of the most expensive parts of the country. 

????️ What are the best places to stay in France near the beach?

Nice, Corsica, Marseille and St. Tropez are some of the best places to stay in France near the beach. 

Final thoughts on where to stay in France

A nighttime view of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, illuminated with traffic light trails circling around it, and the city skyline in the background.

This was a long one, but we did talk about the whole country!

I hope that after reading this guide on where to stay in France you know which places to add on your bucket-list! 

Just remember that the country is so popular and if you want to visit places like Paris or even the Cote d’Azur region, you should book your hotels in advance and places sell out fast! 

If you’re not sure which hotels to book, here are my top 2 favorite ones in Paris, France:

  • Shangri-La Paris – this fabulous hotel features elegantly-decorated rooms with Eiffel Tower views and a Michelin-star restaurant 
  • B Montmartre – a charming hotel with a great location and a bar

Well, if you have any other questions about France don’t hesitate to drop me a comment below, I’ll be happy to help you out!

Safe travels, 

Victoria


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