For a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris, here are a few picturesque, bucolic, historic or all three. What do they have in common? They have all been voted “French Favourite Village” in recent years. A guarantee of quality that only confirms the interest they have and deserve. Follow us as we introduce you to these pretty villages with their timeless charm.
Sancerre
Situated majestically atop a hill overlooking the Loire Valley, the village of Sancerre has earned a special place in the hearts of the French, and not without good reason. Voted France’s favorite village in 2021, this little gem in the Berrichonne region offers visitors a memorable experience in a pastoral setting of incomparable beauty.
Bergheim
Located in the heart of Alsace, Bergheim has been awarded the coveted title of Village Préféré des Français 2022 and a visit to this charming village is sure to reveal why. Nestled among the vineyards, this small Alsatian town offers an authentic experience combining medieval architecture, natural beauty and winegrowing tradition.
Rochefort-en-Terre
Classified as one of the most beautiful Petites Cités de Caractère®, Rochefort-en-Terre amazes visitors with its timeless charm. This pearl of Morbihan, set on a rocky outcrop, takes visitors back in time. The ramparts, castle and old mansions bear witness to a captivating history.
Esquelbecq
Located on the banks of the Yser River, lined with majestic centuries-old oak trees, Esquelbecq is a village that charms with its rich heritage, dynamic, vibrant cultural life and commitment to tourism. Voted favorite village of the French in 2023 it offers an enchanted interlude just 1h30 by train from the capital!
Cordes-sur-Ciel
With 800 years of history, every step in Cordes-sur-Ciel we discover a unique heritage. Founded in November 1222, it is considered one of the first “bastides” in the region. The cobblestones lead us to an emblematic site of European heritage, where the sculpted facades, magnified by time and Gothic art, invite us to look up. The beauty of the area rivals its rich history, where art, culture and history are woven together harmoniously.
Cassel
Head for Hauts-de-France to discover one of its finest nuggets. Here in Cassel you’ll find breathtaking panoramas, picturesque alleyways and distinctive Flemish architecture. Voted one of France’s favorite villages in 2018, the commune is an unmissable stopover if you’re visiting northern France.
Ploumanac’h
In 2015, Ploumanac’h was elected ” Village préféré des Français “, a well-deserved distinction for this jewel nestled on Brittany’s Côte de Granit Rose. Originally a modest fishing hamlet named Ploumanac’h, which means “monk’s marsh” in Breton, it has evolved into the village of Perros-Guirec, preserving its authenticity over the centuries.
Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue
Elected in 2019, this charming commune nestled in the Cotentin region is well worth a visit, and is accessible from Paris in just 3 hours by train. This charming coastal town, rich in history and natural beauty, harmoniously combines its eventful maritime past with its status as a popular seaside resort. Home of the Norman oyster and adorned with the two Vauban towers, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site at, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is one of France’s hidden treasures.
Kaysersberg
Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Kaysersberg with its medieval allure, half-timbered houses and ruined imperial castle dominating the town. The very name of Kaysersberg, meaning the Emperor’s mountain, evokes a past rich in history. This Alsatian gem is a must-see, particularly popular for its magical Christmas market.
Eguisheim
If you’re visiting eastern France, don’t miss the enchanting cobbled streets of Eguisheim, a treasure listed among plus beaux villages de France. This picturesque village, a true Alsatian gem, stands out for its pointed-roofed houses and half-timbered facades bursting with bright colors. Nestled on the outskirts of Colmar, Eguisheim was awarded the coveted title of “France’s Favorite Village” in 2013, a distinction richly deserved and won on the eponymous TV show.