Find your new life
France is home to hundreds of historic villages whose charm captivates both locals and foreigners alike. From medieval towns and flowered hamlets to fortified boroughs and lakeside cities, every region proudly showcases its unique and often highly acclaimed character villages. Here’s a selection of our favorite villages, one from each region, giving you a glimpse of the most beautiful French villages!
Did you know “Les plus beaux villages de France” is a French label? This association rewards, as its name suggests, the most beautiful villages in the country! There are about thirty labels in France aimed at acknowledging not only charm but also efforts in heritage and environmental protection, while boosting tourism in these noteworthy towns. Other labels include “Villes et villages fleuris” (Towns and Villages in Bloom), “Villes d’art et d’histoire” (Towns and Cities of Art and History), “Petites cités de caractère” (Small Towns of Character), “Plus beaux détours de France” (Most Beautiful Detours in France), and even the quirky “Communes aux noms burlesques, pittoresques ou chantants” (Towns with Burlesque, Picturesque, or Musical Names)!
These labels can be a great starting point if you’re looking for authentic and charming villages! Here are some highlights:
Grignan is a beautiful village in Drôme, dominated by its imposing castle (the largest in the southeast!) and rich literary heritage—home to Madame de Sévigné, wife of the Count of Grignan. Nestled at the castle’s foot, houses with yellow stone and round tile roofs line the steep, cobbled streets. Surrounding the town are fields of lavender and vineyards that often featured in the countess’s famous letters. Grignan is perfect for those who love French history and literature.
Awarded both “Les plus beaux villages de France” and “Cité de Caractère,” Château-Chalon sits atop a hill, 222 meters above the Seille river. Known for its fortress and four lookouts offering magnificent panoramic views over the region’s vineyards, the village transports visitors to an ancient, rural, and charming France. Another attraction is its famous yellow wine, which has made Jura’s golden hues renowned.
Known for its sailcloth industry, which made the town very wealthy in the 16th century, Locronan's affluent merchants built large Renaissance homes that still stand around this stone and cobblestone village. The Church of Saint Ronan, a gem of Breton Gothic art, is also a pride of the village.
Riquewihr is a quintessential village in the Grand Est region of France: colorful half-timbered houses line flowered, cobbled streets, local artisans, and regional delicacies flourish in a cozy, typical town center. Surrounded by vineyards and forests, the village offers scenic walks in all seasons.
Situated right along the Loir River, Lavardin is a step back in time: this medieval village consists of charming ancient houses along cobbled streets, all dominated by the ruins of a majestic castle. The village seems to have sprung up in the middle of a forest, adding to its unique allure.
Built around a large colorful church, the village of Nonza is known both for its charmingly colored houses and its incredible views of the Mediterranean. Below this cliff-top village lies a long black beach, unique because it is covered with black pebbles from a former asbestos quarry. Though no longer dangerous, the beach remains a major curiosity for visitors and hikers in the area.
Nestled on the edge of Picardy, about 2 hours from Paris, Gerberoy is like stepping into an Impressionist painting. Its colorful half-timbered houses mingle with traditional red brick structures, creating an architectural harmony. Gerberoy is famous for its Italian-style gardens built on the ruins of a castle, where roses, wisterias, and hydrangeas bloom from spring to autumn. Influenced by the painter Henri Le Sidaner, who was charmed by the village’s allure and established these gardens, Gerberoy celebrates the Rose Festival annually thanks to him.
The only village in Ile-de-France to be labeled “Les plus beaux villages de France,” La Roche Guyon is renowned for its unique location in the heart of the Vexin natural regional park and for its distinctive architecture, including troglodytic houses built around a rock topped by a formidable castle. It’s a must-visit for those exploring nearby Giverny, known for Monet’s house and gardens.
A quintessential Norman village, Lyons-la-Forêt enchants with its half-timbered houses and red bricks set around charming squares. Its name reflects the inseparable connection to its forest, offering delightful explorations across 10,700 hectares of woodland.
Perched atop a cliff, Domme is a historic bastide offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Founded in the 13th century, this fortified village captivates with its preserved medieval architecture, whimsical street names, and local shops. Notably, Domme boasts a remarkable underground cave and a popular lookout for sunset views.
Right by the Spanish border, the charming fishing village of Collioure features colorful streets, a lively port, blooming balconies, sunny weather, and stunning sea views. It has drawn famous painters like Henri Matisse, André Derain, and Pablo Picasso, who were seduced by the village’s soul and charm.
Not far from the famed castles of the Loire Valley like Chambord and Chenonceau, Lassay-les-Châteaux hosts three castles associated with Arthurian legend.
The most renowned, Château fort de Lassay, is celebrated for its 16th-century architecture considered impregnable.
Often cited as the most beautiful village in France, Gordes is a quintessential Provencal village and a symbol of the region’s hilltop villages. Renowned for attracting numerous artists, it’s hard to say what’s more beautiful: the view from Gordes of the Provençal valleys and olive fields or the view of the radiant white village atop its rock.
Gordes is not just visually stunning—it’s a vibrant hub, hosting various art and music festivals that create a festive and warm atmosphere.
With their appeal and charm, it’s no wonder these villages not only draw tourists interested in history, art, or nature but also those looking to relocate. Each year, many people, both from France and abroad, choose to move to these historic and authentic villages, seeking a return to a simpler or gentler lifestyle. Inspired to make a move? Now might be the time to take that step!
