There’s no need to travel thousands of kilometers to discover charming villages where time seems to have stood still. France is brimming with picturesque little gems, true architectural and cultural treasures. After Conques, named the most beautiful village in the world in 2026 by Le Petit Futé; Giethoorn, the famous “Little Venice of the North,” ranked second; and Pigna, a magnificent Corsican village perched in the heart of Balagne—there’s another French gem that continues to captivate travelers: Gordes.
Voted the most beautiful village in the world in 2024 by Travel + Leisure magazine , it still ranks among the most beautiful villages in the world in the 2026 edition of the Le Petit Futé guide, confirming its status as a must-see destination.
Gordes, the world’s most beautiful village in 2024, continues to put France on the map year after year
In 2024, the prestigious magazine Travel + Leisure placed Gordes at the top of its ranking of the world’s most beautiful villages. The Provençal village ranked ahead of Oia, Greece, and Portofino, Italy.
Two years later, Gordes remains an unmissable destination. The Le Petit Futé guide still ranks it among the most beautiful villages in the world in its 2026 edition, alongside other French and European wonders. This distinction is a testament to its timeless Provençal charm.
Perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Luberon, Gordes offers a spectacular view of the Monts du Vaucluse. Its cobblestone streets, dry-stone houses, and the surrounding lavender fields create a scene straight out of a postcard.
What to see and do in Gordes?
Despite the summer crowds, it’s hard to resist the charm of this iconic Provençal village. For a gourmet break, the restaurant L’Orangerie offers Provençal cuisine on a terrace with a breathtaking view of the valley.
After traveling along the winding roads that snake through the heart of the Luberon, arriving in Gordes is a true spectacle. The village invites you to stroll through its steep alleyways before discovering its imposing castle, built in the 11th century and later remodeled during the Renaissance, which proudly dominates the landscape.
You also can’t miss the Church of Saint-Firmin before continuing your tour to the must-see Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey. Surrounded by its famous lavender fields in the summer, it is one of the most photographed sites in Provence.
Gordes: A Blend of Authenticity and Wonder
Just 5 km from Gordes, in Coustellet (a 5- to 10-minute drive), don’t miss a visit to the Luberon Lavender Museum. It offers a fascinating immersion into the history and culture of true fine lavender, the emblem of Provence.
With its rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle, Gordes more than lives up to its reputation. Year after year, it ranks among the most beautiful villages in the world, alongside Conques, Giethoorn, and Pigna. That’s a great reason to plan a getaway there —just a few hours from Paris. Can you already hear the cicadas singing?
