The 10 Best Locations To See In France In Autumn
France in autumn is one of the most beautiful times of year. With the vibrant green landscape of the warmer months giving way to rich autumnal hues, the country shines under the crisp fall sunshine. While autumn regularly brings rain to much of France, it is still the perfect time to take to the road and to explore some of the nation’s most beautiful destinations. Some of the country’s most famous local fare is at its most delicious in autumn too!
Another benefit of visiting France in autumn is that the summer crowds have long gone, and as a result, you can enjoy fewer tourists, shorter lines and more affordable accommodation and transport options.
Picturesque valley villages, apple orchards, happening cities, ancient Roman centres, coastal hamlets and cookie cutter canalside settings (and so much more!) awaits you on our list of the 10 best locations to see in France in autumn.
1. Dijon
Where it is: Burgundy, Eastern France
Dijon is a small, walkable city that is best known for being the home of the eponymous mustard. Located in the pretty region of Burgundy, Dijon is a historic dream that is revered for its autumnal food, and the city is a gastronomic destination for the most authentic French fare. Here, you can also enjoy centuries-old museums like the Musée des Beaux-Arts, or join a wine tasting tour at one of the region’s premier vineyards. Dijon is located in France’s east, towards the Swiss border.
https://en.destinationdijon.com
2. Toulouse
Where it is: Occitanie, Southern France
The riverside city of Toulouse is often overlooked by visitors to the South of France, in favour of more well-known destinations. However, Toulouse is one of the most ideal places in the south to visit in autumn. “The Pink City”, as it’s known, is a sea of historic terracotta rooftops, and is a joy to walk or bike around. Toulouse boasts exquisite restaurants, classically beautiful buildings and a slower pace than many other French cities.
https://www.toulouse-visit.com
3. Arles
Where it is: Provence, Southern France
Provence is globally known for its wide open landscapes and picturesque cities and villages, and in autumn, the French region is at its best. The beautiful Arles, nestled on the Rhône River and with roots in the Roman Empire, has long been associated with many classic artists, including Van Gogh, who found inspiration for over 200 paintings in the city’s landscapes. This includes its Roman ruins, which can be seen across Arles. Today, the city is home to a Van Gogh Museum – as well as many others – and it feels like a mini Rome nestled in the South of France!
https://www.arlestourisme.com/en/
4. Rennes
Where it is: Brittany, Northwest France
High up in France’s northwestern reaches, Rennes is a mediaeval marvel of a city that is home to a quarter of a million residents. The capital of Brittany is a vast city landscape of winding cobblestone streets, colourful centuries-old timber houses, outdoor markets, large city parks, public squares, both historic and modern entertainment venues and a plethora of hip cafes and bars. Rennes has managed to blend old and new France seamlessly, and the university city is an exciting hub of activity that is waiting to impress you this autumn.
5. The Dordogne Valley
Where it is: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Western France
You may not know the Dordogne Valley by name, but it is easily one of the best places to visit in France in autumn. A jewel in the crown of Western France, the valley is dotted by castles, churches and picture perfect riverside villages, many of which date back to medieval times and are some of the county’s most beautiful. Highlights include the hamlets of Rocamadour, Sarlat-la-Canéda, La Roque-Gageac, Martel and Carennac, just to name a few. In autumn, the Dordogne Valley is renowned for its vineyards, outdoor markets and overflowing walnut groves, which locals use to create all kinds of produce, including wines and oil!
https://www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk/discover/cultural-heritage/villages-to-visit
6. Dieppe
Where it is: Normandy, Northern France
The Normandy coastline is a special location to visit in France in autumn, and if you’ve found yourself road tripping around this idyllic region, you must spend some time in Dieppe. A historic fishing port overlooking the English Channel and marked by the medieval Château de Dieppe, gothic churches and sprawling beaches, Dieppe is a peaceful coastal retreat with fewer crowds and more space to enjoy yourself in autumn. While you’re in Dieppe, you must enjoy your fill of the the city’s famous seafood, including scallops, which are served fresh courtesy of local fishermen.
https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/unmissable-sites/dieppe/
7. Pays d’Auge
Where it is: Normandy, Northern France
Another Normandy region highlight is the area of Pays d’Auge, a landscape of rolling hills and valleys that is most famous for producing France’s best cider. This atmospheric area is wide open and free of city crowds during autumn. Its terrain is dotted by charming apple farms, which produce all kinds of apple-flavoured delights, including cider and apple brandy. The area also produces exceptional cheese, particularly Camembert, and if you’re a food connoisseur, you’ll be captivated by Pays d’Auge, and will leave full of some of France’s most delicious gastronomic offerings.
https://www.calvados-tourisme.com/que-voir-dans-le-pays-dauge/
8. Auvers-sur-Oise
Where it is: Île-de-France North-Central France
Vincent Van Gogh, despite being Dutch, found a second home in France during his lifetime, and no place was more important to the painter than Auvers-sur-Oise, which is located just 30 minutes from Paris. This sleepy medieval hamlet captivated Van Gogh, and he found solace here in the final months of his life. From his studio he painted its landscapes, including the church and stairway at Auvers. In fact, Auvers-sur-Oise was so important to Van Gogh that he and his brother were both laid to rest in the village’s cemetery. Nowadays, you can visit Van Gogh’s studio. Maison-Atelier de Daubigny, which is now a must-visit museum.
https://www.france-voyage.com/tourism/auvers-oise-1639.htm
9. Strasbourg
Where it is: Alsace, Northeast France
The charm of Strasbourg, in the most far-flung reaches of the Alsace region of northeast France, never wears off, and in autumn the jaw-dropping city is a relaxed destination, with colourful buildings fringed by changing autumn foliage and nestled on the canals of the Rhine River. Strasbourg has something for everyone. Interesting museums, glorious cathedrals, lavish palaces, ancient bridges and breezy public squares all await you in this lauded city that blends German and French influence in the most impactful way. And from here, it’s easy to visit locations on both sides of the border!
https://www.visit.alsace/en/strasbourg/
10. Paris
Where it is: Île-de-France, North-Central France
No list of places to visit in France in autumn would be complete without a visit to the nation’s capital, Paris. The city is a world destination for a reason – not to mention being one of the most visited locations on the planet! In autumn, the landmarks of the stunning city looks simply superb against a backdrop of falling leaves and autumnal sunshine, as the seasonal colours change rapidly and the chill of the coming winter sets in. Late autumn in Paris is an ideal time to visit, as the warmer weather crowds have long thinned out and the museums, landmarks, monuments, restaurants and delights of the city are yours for the taking – often at a cheaper rate!
What is your favourite place to visit in France in autumn?
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