With the arrival of 2024 getting closer, now is the time to start thinking about and planning a trip to France. For those who have already visited France before and have seen the classic sights, now is the perfect time to experience a different side of the country. We’re sharing some unique France travel destinations in 2024 that we hope will inspire you. Read on to discover more about places like Saint Malo, Calvi, Biarritz and more.
Unique Places to Visit in France in 2024
Saint-Malo
If you’re looking for a seaside destination not far from Paris, Saint-Malo is a great option. Situated on the northeastern coast of Brittany, near the border with Normandy, it serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby Mont Saint-Michel and even the D-Day landing beaches. Saint-Malo built its wealth during the 16th to 18th centuries, when it was a base for many “official” pirates. The ships were actually approved by the King of France to attack and seize the goods from ships of other nations.
Be sure to explore the old town which is known as intra-muros or “within the walls.” It lies behind massive ramparts which encircle the town. One of the best ways to discover Saint-Malo is by following the walk around the high, sturdy ramparts that encircle the town. From there, enjoy stunning views of the town itself, the beaches, the coast, and the surrounding area.
The beaches around Saint-Malo are lovely, with golden sand running down to the emerald and blue sea and rocky outcrops to explore. There are also various islands you can walk to. These islands are all accessible at low tide. When the tide rises, you may be stranded on the islands until the tide changes.
Calvi
Corsica itself is one of France’s best under the radar destinations. One of Corsica’s highlights is the northern port town of Calvi. For many centuries it was part of the Genoese Empire and, as legend has it, the birth town of Christopher Columbus. With its impressive snow-streaked mountains and rolling hills covered with typical Corsican macchia (woods and scrubland), the bay of Cali is an astoundingly beautiful sight.
Visit the famous 15th century Chapelle de Notre Dame de la Serra for a perfect lookout over the stunning panorama. A nearby rock holds the life-sized marbled A Madonna di a Sarra with outstretched arms, the patroness of Calvi. The Corsicans believe that lovers who pay their respects to the Madonna will be granted eternal love.
Calvi is surrounded by beautiful beaches. The sandy bay and colorful marina bordered by large pine trees is one of the most beautiful gulfs in all of France. Travelers also won’t want to miss a stroll along the boardwalk, which offers a rich selection of restaurants and terraces, as well as exciting water sports activities.
Where to Stay in Calvi
Hotel La Villa Calvi
This luxurious 5-star hotel located above Calvi offers a superb view of the park that dominates the bay and the city.
Rooms feature a bathroom with a bathtub and separate toilet, satellite TV, and wireless internet access.
Be sure to visit the hotel’s five swimming pools, including an elegant 25-meter swimming lane, surrounded by a large swimming pool to which the black stone gives a unique look. A children’s pool is also available on the site. Surrounded by the pool bar, it offers an impressive view of the bay of Calvi. The swimming pool located at La Nouvelle Demeure features a unique view of the citadel.
Experience the Mediterranean flavors in harmony with Corsica’s southern gastronomy at the hotel’s two restaurants and bars. Pamper yourself with the best spa services that offer live experiences of absolute well-being.
Carcassonne
Explore extraordinary Carcassonne, a perfect medieval city with massive fortifications that dominate the surrounding countryside. Carcassonne is best known for having an entire city that is a castle. The largest walled city in Europe is best experienced on a walking tour to discover the ramparts, Saint Nazaire Basilica, and more. Visitors can experience the city as it was during Medieval times. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Carcassonne is a must in Southern France for history buffs.
Foodies will also enjoy Carcassonne. Be sure to try the duck foie gras terrines, foie secs (a traditional pork liver recipe), and even Languedoc-style snails. Don’t miss out on this unique place to visit in France in 2024.
Cognac
Located between the cities of Angoulème and Saintes, the town of Cognac overlooks the Charente River. Mainly built on the river’s left bank, the town is on one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela and is birthplace of the iconic Renaissance King François I. Enjoy a walking tour of the historic center where you can discover the charms of the old houses and the relationship between the city and the Renaissance King.
Today, Cognac is a must for sampling brandy styles wines. Let French Side Travel arrange a tour that includes a private visit and tasting at one of the world-renowned houses and also at a smaller, but just as talented, local producer. You’ll meet with a passionate winemaker who will explain the history of this unique double-distilled spirit. Of course, you’ll also taste the three different types of cognac: VS, VSOP, and XO. Youll even have the opportunity to create your own Cognac XO. What better way to savor the unique taste of Cognac, than to make it your own?
Biarritz
Located close to the Spanish border, explore Biarritz and enjoy the best of France’s charm, history, and fabulous food scene. Architecture fanatics will love discovering the important and historic architecture, full of imperial villas and palaces from the 19th century.
Between the beaches, surf spots, golf courses, thalassotherapy centers, and gastronomy there is plenty to enjoy in Biarritz. One of the most beautiful beaches in Biarritz is the Grand Plage. Its strong waves made the beach so popular with surfers in the 1950s when this sport became popular in Europe. The Grand Plage is still considered to be one of the best surfing beaches in the world. Visitors can also explore the Plage du Vieux which is a small, sheltered beach on the Old Port of Biarritz. Thanks to its calm waters it’s perfect for families with children and is popular among locals.
Where to Stay in Biarritz
Hotel du Palais
This luxurious five-star hotel and former imperial mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is truly an elegant place to stay.
The hotel features 86 rooms and 56 suites, an Imperial SPA with sauna service, a fitness facility, and a cardio training facility. During your stay, kids can choose from a variety of entertaining activities at the Kid’s Club. Pets are also welcome.
This hotel’s excellent dining options offer an exquisite French culinary experience for guests to enjoy regional seafood and unique local products.
Nearby attractions include the Villa Belza, Rock of the Blessed Virgin, the Biarritz French Surf School, and the City of the Ocean. Hotel du Palais is the perfect destination for those searching for one-of-a-kind and unforgettable memories.
French Side Travel thanks you for your support in 2023 and sends our Meilleurs Voeux (best wishes) for 2024. We hope this list of unique places to visit in France in 2024 inspires future travel. We would love to help you plan a dream trip to France this year with a custom itinerary that includes stops in any or all of these destinations. Get in touch with a travel designer today to start the planning process!