Instead of Mont Saint-Michel, Try Saint-Malo
The abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, rising magically from its tidal bay, is an unforgettable sight. Unfortunately, millions of other travellers agree. In peak season, the single road and narrow village streets can feel more like a theme park queue than a historical
pilgrimage. The experience of its medieval character is often lost amidst a slow-moving parade of tourists. For a similar coastal fortress vibe without the bottleneck, consider the walled port city of Saint-Malo in nearby Brittany. You can walk the impressive ramparts encircling the old town for stunning sea views, wander cobblestone streets filled with local shops and restaurants, and explore the region's rich maritime history. It offers a lively atmosphere and authentic Breton culture, serving as a perfect base to explore a coastline dotted with charming villages and beautiful beaches.
Instead of the Riviera Hotspots, Try Hyères or Cassis
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, conjures images of glamour and azure waters. Cities like Nice and Cannes are legendary, but their beaches can be pebbly, packed, and pricey. The search for a spot on the sand in summer can feel like a competitive sport. For a more relaxed Mediterranean experience, look to the western end of the Riviera. The town of Cassis, a short journey from Marseille, offers a picturesque fishing village atmosphere with waterfront restaurants and access to the stunning Calanques National Park, a series of dramatic limestone coves with secluded beaches. Alternatively, the town of Hyères and its nearby islands, like Porquerolles, provide a taste of the Riviera's natural beauty with fewer crowds, offering a more tranquil seaside escape.
Instead of Central Paris, Explore a Quieter Arrondissement or Day Trip
Paris is non-negotiable for many, and for good reason. But battling the crowds at the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre can consume entire days and drain your energy. The city's charm isn't confined to its most famous landmarks. A smarter approach is to treat Paris as a collection of villages. Base yourself in a less touristy arrondissement like Le Marais for local shopping, or wander the food-centric Rue Montorgueil to feel like a true Parisian. Better yet, use Paris as a launchpad. A short train ride can transport you to a completely different world. Consider the palatial splendour of Château de Fontainebleau, which saw 800 years of royal history but receives a fraction of the visitors of Versailles. Or visit a town like Amiens, which has its own magnificent Notre Dame cathedral—the largest in France—and a network of peaceful canals.
Instead of Overhyped Wine Regions, Discover Beaujolais
Bordeaux and Burgundy are world famous for wine, but their popularity means tours can be expensive and booked up months in advance. For an equally beautiful but more accessible wine country experience, head to the Beaujolais region, just north of Lyon. Known as 'Little Tuscany', the area is famous for its 'Pierres Dorées' or golden stone villages that glow in the sunlight. You can follow a self guided wine route, stopping at family run vineyards to taste the region's signature Gamay grape red wines without the ceremony or crowds of the more famous appellations. Towns like Oingt and Ternand offer all the magic of French wine country with a more intimate and welcoming feel.
