7 Most Underrated French Villages (According to Our Staff)
From Paris to Nice, most travelers flock to the bustling cities of France. It’s true that there’s a wealth of sights and experiences to take in: Louvre, Promenade des Anglais, calanques of Marseille. But so much authentic French charm is tucked in its villages. The quaint bakeries where the bakers know the locals by their first names. The natural music of cicadas chirping. The quiet monasteries coming up on a millennium of existence. Far out of the limelight, these villages may not attract the hordes. But it’s these places that best reflect French patrimoine, or heritage. On our quest for the most underrated French villages, we didn’t ask Lonely Planet or AI. We asked our very own travel designers and staff for their top picks. From Normandy to Provence, here are the most underrated French villages, according to French Side Travel.
7 Most Underrated French Villages
Les Baux-de-Provence
Angélique and Célia
For Célia, this village is the typical image of Provence from its vineyards to lavender. Only a 30-minute’s drive from Arles, this village is anything but sleepy. Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive 3D art gallery. And history buffs will fancy an afternoon at the Château des Baux, a fortress dating back to the 1200s.
Riquewihr
Hunter
For Hunter, choosing just one underrated French village was mission impossible. But when pinned down, he’d have to choose the Alsatian village of Riquewihr. During his time as a student, he visited this village several times and fell in love with its unique architecture, regional wine and warm locals. Most travelers who venture to the region of Alsace stop at Strasbourg and Colmar — only 30 minutes from Riquewihr by train. These towns ooze charm, but Hunter wishes more travelers would dive deeper into the region to discover its idyllic villages.
Haut Koenigsbourg Castle and Villages Tour
Riquewihr is just the beginning when it comes to the region of Alsace. On your private tour, step back in time as you visit the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, which dates back to the 1100s. Explore the castle and take in the beautiful landscape. Your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the countryside marked by its charming villages and vineyards. Stop in the enchanting village of Riquewihr and wander its streets marked with colored houses. In the afternoon, stroll through nearby villages Kaysersberg and Eguisheim. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’re certain to get your steps in.
Roussillon
Angélique
Looking for French village charm and a step into nature? Only an hour’s drive from Aix-en-Provence, this village in the Luberon Valley will wow with its orange and yellow hues throughout the town. Angélique adores Roussillon for its magnificent views but also its historic center. This village entices with its Sentier des Ocres, a trail through the town’s ochre deposit. Surrounded by shades of red and orange, this mild hike is great for most ability levels.
Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville
Yohann
This village in Normandy isn’t just a pin on a map; for Yohann, it’s personal. His grandparents spent their lives here, and his father grew up in this village, only a 20-minute’s drive from Rouen. As a child, Yohann spent many weekends in Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville, which he labels as one of Normandy’s best-kept secrets. Spend the afternoon at the Saint Georges Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery and gardens spanning nearly 15 acres.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Eva
Eva considers this one of the most underrated French villages for its charm and its prime location near Lake Sainte Croix. If you’re looking to unplug during your trip to France, Moustiers Sainte Marie is the ideal spot. Make the light trek up to the historic Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel and overlook the valley.
Luxury Private Tour of the Verdon
Don’t let Moustiers Sainte Marie be the only French village on your itinerary. The surrounding region is rich with beautiful surroundings and lake views. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Verdon River for an electric boat ride. Stroll along Sainte Croix Lake and its surrounding villages. Our guide will then bring you to the charming village of Moustiers Sainte Marie. Here you’ll visit one of its artisanal earthenware workshops, where you’ll uncover this village’s ancient tradition. And if your visit falls during lavender season in the summer, enjoy a stop in Valensole.
Grimaud
Fanny
Most have heard of Saint Tropez, but don’t stop there. Not even 30 minutes away by car, Grimaud promises a much quieter take on the Riviera. Port Grimaud has been nicknamed the “Little Venice of Provence” and is perfect for those seeking time on the water.
Cordes-sur-Ciel
Candice
Tucked in the region of Occitanie and a little over an hour’s drive from Toulouse, Cordes-sur-Ciel feels like stepping back in time. No, really – the town was founded in 1222, per Visit Occitanie. Take in the slow pace of village life as you meander its cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture. Or perhaps just enjoy a picnic overlooking Cérou Valley. Discover the village’s shops and make a stop at Yves Thuriès, a regional chocolatier.
Private Guided Tour through Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel
Discover the charming towns of the region of Occitanie. Starting in Albi, marvel at the majestic Sainte Cécile Cathedral and make your way to the Berbie Palace and its fairytale-like garden. The Berbie Palace is one of the best conserved episcopal palaces and is also home to the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. After a short drive from Albi, fall head over heels with Cordes-sur-Ciel, named one of the most beautiful French villages. Wander its quaint streets and turn back the clock to a different century as you explore its shops and restaurants.
Where to Stay in France
La Bastide de Moustiers
Decades ago, Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse purchased this property dating to back to the 18th century and has since turned it into a luxury hotel in the heart of Provence. La Bastide de Moustiers boasts about a dozen rooms and suites, all with their own special names such as the Lavender Room or the Olive Suite. Take it slow and enjoy a calm morning in the cozy king-sized bed and sip on your espresso in its private garden sprinkled with fig and olive trees.
Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence
This five-star hotel boasts 53 rooms, which feature pieces from nearby villages such as Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Book a table at L’Oustau de Baumanière, decorated with three Michelin stars. If you’re interested in the science and culture of wine, you can even take an oenology class complete with a cellar visit and wine tastings.
Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon. These major cities are worth a visit, but they don’t paint the full picture of France. From Provence to Alsace, these underrated French villages will warm your heart with their tranquility and authenticity. At French Side Travel, we’re here to help you experience France in all its flavors — and without the stress. Contact one of our travel specialists today to start planning. You might also like: From City Lights to Coastal Wonders or Occitanie Wine Adventures: Toulouse to Narbonne.
