Found By Accident contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
16 Places In France So Photogenic It’s Almost Unfair
France isn’t just a country; it’s basically a giant backdrop designed to make every photo you take look like a masterpiece. From storybook villages to jaw-dropping landscapes, every corner seems to beg for its moment to shine in your travel album.
It’s like France got the memo and decided to throw in every picturesque detail you didn’t know you needed. And I know what you’re thinking, isn’t half the charm in discovering these places for yourself?
Sure, but a little sneak peek into the top spots won’t hurt. Stick around, and be prepared to add a few extra stops to your future trips. You can thank me later (or curse me when your travel list doubles in size).
Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
If Mont Saint-Michel isn’t on your bucket list, are you even trying? This magical medieval island is part abbey, part time-travel experiment, and all jaw-clenching charm. It towers over a sprawling bay that, thanks to some tidal theatrics, lets you walk to it at low tide but might strand you at high tide if you misjudge your timing.
Purpose-built to mimic the social pyramid of medieval life, it has monks praying at the top, knights plotting in the middle, and the rest of us common folk pretending we’re not winded halfway up those steep cobblestone streets.
Pro-tip? Skip the overpriced souvenirs and save your coins for a buttery crepe instead… you’ll need it after conquering those stairs.
Chambord Castle, Loire Valley
If castles could flex, the Chateau de Chambord would be doing just that. And this architectural masterpiece isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a genius puzzle wrapped in Renaissance splendor.
The pièce de résistance? A double-helix staircase allegedly inspired by none other than da Vinci himself. It’s a clever contraption that allows people to ascend and descend simultaneously without ever making awkward eye contact (basically the historical version of avoiding your ex at a party).
With its 426 rooms, 282 fireplaces (honestly, you can never have enough), and exterior spires resembling a crown for a royal giant, this Loire Valley castle oozes extravagance. And strolling its massive grounds will have you pondering why your apartment doesn’t come with a moat and a hunting lodge.
Carnac Stones, Brittany
Forget Stonehenge; the Carnac Stones are like the world’s oldest game of dominoes – except no one knows who set them up (or why). Picture over 3,000 standing stones lined up all neat and orderly in Brittany. Maybe Neolithic humans were just really into geometric landscaping?
These giant rocks have been chilling here since around 4500 – 3300 BC, enduring everything from thunderstorms to lost tourists. Some conspiracy theorists say aliens were involved, but actual archaeologists suggest ancient rituals or astronomy.
While no one’s cracking this mystery any time soon, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never look at your backyard landscaping efforts the same way again.
Aiguille Du Midi, French Alps
Feeling too cozy on solid ground? The cable car to Aiguille du Midi is here to fix that. Since 1955, this intrepid feat of engineering has been whisking thrill-seekers up more than 3,800 meters in just 20 minutes.
But it’s not for the faint-hearted (or those who don’t appreciate sheer, white-knuckle vertical ascents). Once at the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Mont Blanc that could make even the most jaded traveler weep a little.
Oh, and did I mention the aptly named skywalk, “Step into the Void”? It’s essentially a glass box dangling over a 1,000-meter drop. So bring your bravery (or your foolhardiness).
Gardens Of Versailles, Versailles
Calling these “gardens” is a bit like calling the ocean a puddle. Designed by Andre Le Notre, the Versailles Gardens are so meticulously symmetrical that they’d probably give a compulsive organizer an existential crisis.
Fountains? Check. Sculptures? Double check. Entire areas of greenery designed just to show off nature’s geometry? Triple check. Walking through these nearly 2000 acres of perfection is essentially stepping into the mind of someone who thought regular gardens were for quitters.
Also, the fountains here don’t just sit quietly looking pretty; they practically perform. The Grandes Eaux Musicales show is a water spectacle that combines all your favorite elements of drama, elegance, and “I could never create something this amazing.” Remember to wear comfy shoes… unless you enjoy suffering.
Eiffel Tower, Paris
We couldn’t really leave the Eiffel Tower off the list, even if it is well-known. Because what’s Paris without its most famous toothpick-shaped beacon of romance? And believe it or not, this 10,100-ton iron icon wasn’t always beloved.
During its initial construction, Parisians called it a monstrosity (ironic, considering some of their hairstyles in the 1800s). Now? It’s a global sensation held together by 2.5 million rivets and the collective awe of millions of visitors.
The elevator ride is not for the faint of heart, but it’s worth it just for the views (and to brag that you’ve ascended Gustave Eiffel’s industrial masterpiece). Oh, and if you’re scared of heights, just remember that it only sways a little bit in strong wind.
Pont De Bir-Hakeim, Paris
Sure, the Eiffel Tower gets all the love, but let’s talk about Pont de Bir-Hakeim, the bridge that moonlights as a Hollywood star. This double-decker wonder isn’t just hauling pedestrians and trains across the Seine; it’s an architectural masterpiece and a goldmine for that perfectly aligned photo under the metro line.
And remember that super-trippy scene in Inception where the laws of physics just packed up and left? Yep, this bridge was the backdrop. Heads up, though, standing there too long while staring up at the symmetry might make you question your own wobbly life choices.
Consider visiting at sunset, even bridges deserve their dramatic moments.
Colmar, Alsace
If a storybook town came to life, it’d probably look like Colmar. Known for its picturesque canals and medieval timbered houses, this Alsace town is often nicknamed “Little Venice”. Although, to be fair, it’s more French countryside than gondola glamour.
Wandering through its cobbled streets, you’ll be half-expecting a woodland creature to pop out and give you directions. And the town’s pastel-colored buildings feel like they’ve been cheerfully arguing over who wore it better since the 13th century.
The local cuisine is a mix of French and German influences that will have you wishing you knew how to make more than microwave dinners. Whether it’s savoring tarte flambee or marveling at the Unterlinden Museum’s medieval art, Colmar will charm your socks off (assuming you remembered to pack some).
Senanque Abbey, Gordes
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a postcard, this 12th-century abbey nestled in the rolling lavender fields of Provence is your chance. Don’t be fooled by the serene beauty – it’s still home to Cistercian monks, who probably have more patience than any of us could muster after one traffic jam.
The abbey’s stone walls have seen centuries of meditation, prayer, and tourists wondering if they can get the lavender scent out of the air and into a candle. Visit during the warmer months when the lavender is in full bloom, turning the fields into a purple carpet rivaling any red one Hollywood could throw down.
Just be sure to keep it down, the monks aren’t known for loving loud sightseeing tours.
Chenonceau Castle, Loire Valley
What’s more over the top than building a chateau? Building it directly over a river so it reflects like the crown jewel. Welcome to Chateau de Chenonceau, a dreamy estate spanning the Cher River.
Its arches are so graceful, you’ll want to applaud the architects, or maybe just walk across and feel fancy for a second. The history running through this place is juicy too – Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers had a little “who’s the queen of this castle” moment here, proving that real estate drama has been around forever.
Tour the lush gardens, take in Renaissance art, or just stand there pretending you’re part of royalty (no crown required). Just try not to fall into the river while you’re reveling in the splendor.
Strasbourg, Alsace
Strasbourg is the city equivalent of someone who studied abroad and won’t stop talking about it. Leaning into its French and German roots, this cultural fusion serves cathedral-level charm (and yes, it even has an epic gothic cathedral).
The city’s highlight, though, might just be Petite France, a pastel-walled neighborhood that looks so idyllic, you half expect to find a cottage bakery run by fairies. And while wandering the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter canals that gleam with a charm so picturesque, Hallmark movies are probably taking notes.
Strasbourg isn’t just a feast for the eyes, though. Tuck into Alsatian dishes like choucroute garnie, an impossibly hearty plate of countless sausages and sauerkraut that’ll make you rethink not wearing some stretchy pants to dinner.
Gordes, Provence
Perched on a cliff like it’s playing hard-to-get, Gordes is officially one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” and honestly, it knows it. Stroll through its labyrinth of winding streets flanked by sandstone buildings, and suddenly you’re in a place that feels like an overly artistic oil painting come to life.
The centerpiece? The 11th-century chateau standing tall in the middle of it all. But Gordes doesn’t stop there; it doubles down with lavender fields scattered around the hilltop like nature got generous with the purple paint.
Bring extra camera memory; you’ll absolutely need it. And no, the stone streets don’t count as a leg day workout, but your calves might disagree.
Montmartre & Sacre‑Coeur Basilica, Paris
Montmartre isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s practically Paris’s quirky, artsy cousin who always knows how to keep things interesting. You’ve got cobblestone streets winding their way up to Sacre‑Coeur, the basilica that looks like it’s keeping a watchful eye on the city from its perch.
The view from up there? Worth every huff and puff you’ll endure climbing the stairs (or, you know, take the funicular if stairs offend you). But the real magic happens when you duck into the back lanes. Suddenly, bam – a quiet corner, a perfect angle of the iconic white dome, and maybe an accordion player softly serenading you.
It’s touristy, sure, but Montmartre makes “touristy” feel charmingly rebellious. And don’t skip the artist square. It’ll have you considering taking up oil painting just to fit in.
Carcassonne, Occitania
Imagine walking into the pages of a medieval fantasy novel, but without the dragons (unfortunately). That’s Carcassonne for you; a fortress city so thoroughly restored, it might make you suspect time travel is real.
The towering ramparts practically scream, “Defend me!” while the maze-like streets inside whisper, “Get lost on purpose.” Sure, you’ll see shops selling trinkets and maybe an overly enthusiastic knight mascot, but there’s something undeniably magical about standing on cobblestones that have witnessed centuries of history.
Stick around until sunset when the stone walls glow golden. It’s like the city knows it’s photogenic and is showing off just for you. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve conquered the Middle Ages and then retreated to the 21st century for a well-earned glass of wine.
Etretat Gardens, Etretat
If you’re heading to Normandy expecting just cliffs and calvados, allow Etretat Gardens to defy your expectations. Perched dramatically above the chalk cliffs, this is not your average garden with neatly trimmed hedges.
Nope, it’s an artsy, experimental wonderland filled with sculptures that make you wonder if gardens can, in fact, have a sense of humor. And the views of the Channel will have you stopping in your tracks, partially for awe and partially to internally debate if you’re fit enough to survive the cliffside walk.
Opened in 2017 and featuring rotating art installations, it’s the perfect blend of nature and human creativity. Odds are you’ll leave equal parts inspired and bewildered (and hoping you can turn your backyard into a modern art venue).
Louvre Courtyard, Paris
You’d think the Louvre Courtyard might have an identity crisis with all that contrast going on, but instead, it’s absurdly photogenic. On one hand, there’s the regal 12th-century palace facade, all grand and historic, ready to remind you that royalty once strutted here.
On the other hand, you’ve got the bold, modern glass pyramid – the ultimate “Well, didn’t see that coming” architectural choice by I.M. Pei. Stroll through at golden hour when the light bounces off the glass in dazzling patterns, and suddenly it feels like you’ve stepped into an art piece.
Inside the pyramid, there’s a spiral staircase descending dramatically into the museum’s modern entrance, but the courtyard itself? It’s a masterpiece that’s free. Zero excuses for skipping this one.
Like Our Content? Make sure to join our newsletter for all the latest on outdoor adventures (and a FREE STARGAZING GUIDE). Click here to sign up!
