14 Best Small Towns in France for Beautiful Beaches and Vineyards, Mountain Trails, and Medieval Castles

When people think of visiting France, Paris usually steals the spotlight. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, France’s small towns offer an incredible mix of beauty, culture, and calm — many just a train ride away. Whether you’re into beaches, vineyards, mountains, or medieval charm, these towns (all with fewer than 15,000 residents) show a quieter, more scenic side of France.

Cassis

Tucked between Marseille and Toulon in Provence, Cassis is a picture-perfect fishing port. Pastel houses line the harbor, sailboats bob in the water, and pebbly beaches meet towering limestone cliffs. It’s relaxed, colorful, and full of cozy cafés — perfect for unwinding in the South of France.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

On the French side of Basque Country, Saint-Jean-de-Luz blends French charm with Spanish flair. It’s a lively fishing village where surfers ride the waves at Plage de Lafitenia, and adventurers chase the legendary Belharra break. Don’t miss the Fort de Socoa and its sweeping views over the Bay of Biscay.

Eguisheim

Close to the German border and just south of Colmar, Eguisheim is a storybook Alsatian village. Think cobbled lanes, colorful half-timbered houses, and medieval castles. And as part of the Alsace Wine Route, it’s heaven for wine lovers.

Vogüé

Set on the Ardèche River and part of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages” association, Vogüé is a dream. Medieval streets, riverside cliffs, and a castle make it postcard-worthy. Visit in fall to catch the chestnut harvest — a local specialty.

Île de Porquerolles

Hop on a ferry from Toulon or Hyères and step onto Porquerolles, a car-free island paradise. Walk or bike to explore its wild beaches, turquoise water, and pine-lined shores. Don’t skip Fondation Carmignac, a modern art museum with its own vineyard.

Les Baux-de-Provence

Built into the rocky Alpilles mountains, Les Baux-de-Provence has a dramatic setting. Fields bloom with poppies in spring and lavender in early summer, while the Carrières de Lumières art show — set in a former quarry — is unlike anything else.

Arcachon

Just under an hour from Bordeaux, Arcachon is a beach town on a calm bay. Brave the Atlantic for a swim, then walk along Europe’s largest sand dune. In town, 19th-century villas and seafood restaurants — serving oysters, sea urchins, and more — await.

Villard-de-Lans

Nestled in the French Alps near Grenoble, Villard-de-Lans offers skiing in winter and scenic hikes in summer. The farmers market (especially on Wednesdays and Sundays) is a great way to taste the region’s best produce and treats.

Hunspach

This tiny Alsace town near the German border looks like it’s straight from a fairy tale, with white half-timbered houses and flower boxes in every window. Just beyond town, the Northern Vosges Regional Park offers wooded trails and peaceful nature walks.

Chamonix

One of the better-known names here, Chamonix sits at the base of Mont Blanc. It’s famous for skiing, but it’s also a great base to explore France, Italy, and Switzerland — all within easy reach. The views are unbeatable year-round.

Peillon

Though only 20 miles from Nice, Peillon feels worlds away. It’s a quiet hilltop village with no cars, narrow streets, and historic charm. Getting there means a bit of a walk from the train station, but the view from Saint-Roch Chapel is worth the effort — just bring water and a sunhat if you’re visiting in summer.

La Roche-Guyon

Less than an hour from Paris, La Roche-Guyon is a tiny riverside village built around a stunning château. Explore the castle, gardens, and scenic surroundings, and take a guided tour to understand how the whole village evolved around this historic gem.

Revel

In the Midi-Pyrénées region, Revel is known for one thing: its legendary Saturday market. Held in a 14th-century hall, the market buzzes with over 200 stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, bread, charcuterie, antiques, and artisan goods. Don’t miss the Wood Museum either — it’s a fascinating look at the town’s furniture-making roots.

Aigues-Mortes

Surrounded by medieval walls, Aigues-Mortes in southern France is a beautiful and compact town, perfect for walking. But what really sets it apart are the pink salt flats just outside. Located in the Camargue wetlands, this area is best explored via the town’s small tourist train — especially fun if you’re traveling with kids.

These small towns may be less famous than Paris or Nice, but they offer some of France’s most stunning scenery, warmest hospitality, and most memorable experiences. Whether you’re sipping wine in Alsace or hiking in the Alps, you’ll find that the heart of France often lies in its quietest corners.