8 Most Laid-Back Towns in France
It goes without saying that France is a hotspot for tourism. Between the wonderful Alps, the beaches of the French Riviera, and the culture/cuisine of Paris, there is no shortage of things to see and do during your stay. Get away from the big cities, however, and experience what small-town France is really like. Whether it is sampling cheese and wine in France's vast agricultural regions or hiking in one of its many national parks, there is a laid-back town around every corner of the country for you to stop off at either before or after your day begins.
Collioure
Tucked along the Mediterranean coast near the Spanish border, Collioure is a quiet seaside town that exemplifies life in southern France. Its blend of French and Catalan influences can be seen in the local cuisine and architecture, a blend that is sure to keep both your eyes and your palate happy.
The town's historic center is dotted with pastel-colored houses, narrow alleyways, and cafes that are sure to spice up your walk through town, regardless of the route you take. Pay a visit to the 13th-century Château Royal, which overlooks the harbor, or take a stroll to the 17th-century Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, noted for its iconic bell tower.
Collioure’s location between the Pyrenees and the sea means that both beaches and mountains are nearby, providing a relaxing setting for a quiet day by the water, while the surrounding vineyards in the foothills offer scenic hikes and opportunities for wine-tastings.
The town’s artistic heritage, once a favorite spot for painters like Henri Matisse and André Derain, adds a definite artistic flair and compliments the laid-back vibe of the town as well.
Senlis
Just 40 kilometers from Paris, Senlis makes for a great escape from the big city with its medieval history and small-town French charm. Its cobblestone streets lead visitors to a mix of Roman ruins, Gothic architecture, and quaint courtyards. The town’s centerpiece, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Senlis, dates back to the 12th century and stands as a stunning example of early Gothic design that just screams for a photo shoot at all angles.
As mentioned, Senlis is known for its Roman remnants, such as ancient walls and gates, most notably the "Ramparts on Senlis." For those more interested in art history on top of ancient Rome, the Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie, located in a former bishop’s palace, will teach you more about the town’s layered history, from antiquity to the medieval period.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the town’s quiet squares or venturing into the nearby Chantilly Forest, ideal for a peaceful nature walk. With its close proximity to the capital, Senlis provides a calm atmosphere for those looking to escape the hustle of Paris.
Lourmarin
Nestled in the heart of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Lourmarin is a quintessential southern French village known for its vineyards and olive groves, along with its many well-preserved historic buildings. The village’s centerpiece is the Renaissance-style Château de Lourmarin, which gives a look back in time to the region's longstanding history, along with having a collection of beautiful gardens on its grounds.
Lourmarin’s local market, held weekly, features fresh produce, artisanal bread, and regional cheeses, a must-visit for any foodies out there. Surrounded by natural beauty, Lourmarin also serves as a gateway to exploring the Luberon Regional Park, which is notable for its scenic trails in the verdant countryside. A collection of historic buildings within the park is also open for exploration, as well as some interesting natural rock formations created over eons of wind and water movement throughout the area.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is another idealistic small town in the mountainous Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the impressive remains of the Glanum archaeological site, Saint-Rémy mizes France's ancient past with present-day conveniences. This particular site’s ruins, dating back to the 1st century BC, make a fascinating backdrop to the town’s storied past.
Art enthusiasts, on the other hand, will appreciate Saint-Rémy’s connection to Vincent van Gogh. This famous artist spent time here and was inspired by the surrounding beauty. One look at the area for yourself and you will quickly understand why. The town’s many parks and gardens are serene spots for relaxation and inspiration, while the nearby Alpilles Mountains are the perfect place to embark on a scenic hike.
Èze
Perched high on a cliff above the Mediterranean, Èze is a medieval village where many come to relax by the water. With its commanding position over the French Riviera, Èze is often called an "eagle’s nest," and its many panoramic viewpoints make it a standout destination for those traveling through southern France.
The village’s Jardin Exotique is one of its highlights, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden filled with exotic plants right on the coastline. Given its age, Èze also boasts historical attractions, such as the 12th-century Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix, an ornate chapel on top of a large cliff overlooking the water.
Though close to the bustling cities of Nice and Monaco, Èze remains a peaceful haven, where time seems to slow down. The nearby Nietzsche Path provides a scenic hike from the beach to the village, offering you a connection with nature as well as history.
Honfleur
Located along the Seine estuary, Honfleur is a coastal town in Normandy known for its beautiful harbor. The town’s old port, Vieux Bassin, is full of colorful, slate-fronted houses and eateries where you can watch the boats come and go as you enjoy a meal. Timber-framed buildings and other nearby landmarks like the 15th-century Saint Catherine’s Church, France’s largest wooden church, complement the downtown area near the ocean.
Its artistic history, famously captured by painters like Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin, still resonates in the town’s small galleries and art museums, including the Eugène Boudin Museum.
Nearby, nature lovers can explore the Normandy countryside or take a walk along the beach at Butin. Other idyllic spots for a walk along the waterfront include Honfeluer's iconic public gardens, such as the Jardin des Personnalités.
Dinard
Once a popular seaside resort for the British aristocracy, Dinard retains its elegant charm with grand 19th-century villas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its beaches, such as Plage de l’Écluse, are perfect for a relaxing day by the water, while the town's mild climate and ocean views continue to make it a popular vacation spot for travelers from around the world.
A walk along the Promenade du Clair de Lune provides a great way to get acquainted with the area and its various public parks on/near the waterfront. Dinard’s location near other beautiful places like Saint-Malo and Mont Saint-Michel makes it an ideal base for exploring the region in more depth.
The town also hosts an annual British Film Festival, bringing filmmakers and filmgoers alike to Dinard in early October.
Provins
As well as being a functioning town, Provins is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Paris. Best known for its extensive collection of still-standing medieval architecture, Provins is perhaps most notable for its fortified walls and ancient watchtowers. The town played a crucial role as a major trading center during the Middle Ages, and its historic significance is still evident today.
A walk through Provins reveals iconic landmarks such as the Tour César, a 12th-century keep that offers its visitors some of the best views of the town, and the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church. Provins' medieval fairs and events, including historical reenactments and falconry displays, also provide a fun glimpse into what life was like many centuries ago.
Visitors should also make a point of exploring Provins’ underground tunnels, which were once used for storage and potential escape routes in case of an attack. This mysterious attraction also contains a gallery where tours are regularly held.
Find Relaxation in France
France is home to an array of laid-back small towns that provide a perfect escape from the busier, tourist-heavy cities like Paris or Marseille. Whether you're spending time along the Mediterranean coast touring the lush countryside of Provence or tucked away in the historic landscapes of Normandy and Île-de-France, these towns offer all who come a chance to slow down and experience the country's rich cultural, natural, and historical heritage at a relaxing pace.
