Instead of the French Riviera, Try the Côte Bleue
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is legendary for its glamour, but summer brings overflowing trains, packed beaches, and a frantic scramble for restaurant reservations. For travellers seeking the same stunning Mediterranean waters without the chaos,
the Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) just west of Marseille offers a peaceful alternative. This stretch of coastline features the same beautiful rocky inlets, known as calanques, and charming fishing villages but with a distinctly more local and relaxed atmosphere. Here, the goal isn't to see and be seen, but to genuinely unwind, swim in calm bays, and enjoy the scenery without dodging elbows. It’s a vision of the South of France that feels more authentic and less performed for tourists.
Instead of Mont Saint-Michel, Explore Cathar Castles
The magnificent abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is an unforgettable sight, but its popularity means that during peak season, the narrow streets become a slow-moving parade of people. Authorities sometimes have to encourage visitors to postpone their trips due to sheer volume. For a taste of dramatic history perched on staggering heights, mindful travellers are turning to the Cathar castles of the Occitanie region. Fortresses like Montségur offer breathtaking views and a profound sense of history without the theme-park feel. Alternatively, the historic walled city of Carcassonne can be overwhelming, but visiting in the off-season reveals its medieval magic without the suffocating crowds.
Instead of the Palace of Versailles, Visit Château de Fontainebleau
With over eight million visitors annually, the Palace of Versailles can feel more like an endurance test than a cultural experience, marked by long queues and crowded halls. For those seeking royal grandeur on a more human scale, the Château de Fontainebleau provides a compelling alternative just a short trip from Paris. With over 1,500 rooms and 800 years of royal history, Fontainebleau served as a residence for monarchs from the 12th century through to Napoleon. It boasts immense and beautiful gardens and opulent interiors but receives only a fraction of Versailles' visitors, allowing for a more intimate and enjoyable exploration of French history and artistry.
Instead of Paris, Discover Bordeaux or Lyon
Paris will always be Paris, but its popularity means that its central districts are increasingly dominated by shortterm rentals, pushing out local life and driving up prices. For travellers seeking that quintessential French city experience, cities like Bordeaux and Lyon are emerging as top contenders. Bordeaux, often called 'Little Paris', offers elegant squares, a worldclass food and wine scene, and a more laidback vibe. Meanwhile, Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, delivers a vibrant cultural scene, a pristine Renaissance old town (Vieux Lyon), and a reputation as France's gastronomic capital, all with a more approachable and less congested feel than the nation's capital.
