15 Unbelievably Enchanting Places to Visit in France This Autumn
Discover the beauty of autumn in France with these must-see destinations, from charming villages to stunning landscapes.
Autumn in France is simply beautiful.
The colours, the fresh air, and the calm – it’s the perfect season to explore.
I’ve had the chance to visit some of the most charming places in the country during this time, always with my camera by my side.
Each spot I’m about to share has left a lasting impression on me.
From the golden vineyards in Alsace to the misty peaks of the Alps, I’ve been there and captured it all.
Now, I’m excited to share my top 15 autumn destinations with you.
Ready to discover some of the best places to visit in France this season?
Let’s get started!
My Favourite Autumn Destinations in France
Here’s my list of 15 sites I explored during autumn.
I hope they inspire you to visit!
1. Banks of the Seine, Paris
Autumn along the Seine is something special.
The trees lining the river turn golden, and the whole city seems to slow down.
I love walking along the riverbanks, camera in hand, catching the light bouncing off the water and Notre Dame in the background.
Whether you're strolling by the booksellers or stopping for a coffee at a riverside café, there's a calmness here in the autumn air that feels almost surreal.
2. Père Lachaise Cemetery, Paris
This might sound unusual, but Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of my favourite spots in Paris during autumn.
The colours of the fallen leaves contrast beautifully with the old gravestones, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
It’s not just a cemetery – it’s an open-air museum filled with history.
Walking through here, you’ll find famous names like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison, and the quiet paths lined with golden leaves make it feel like a world apart.
3. Fontainebleau, Île-de-France
Fontainebleau in autumn is a dream.
The château is stunning year-round, but the surrounding forest really comes to life with shades of red, orange, and yellow.
It’s perfect for a lovely walk or even a hike if you’re feeling adventurous.
Every corner offers a new picture-perfect scene.
I always find myself stopping to capture the play of light through the trees or the reflection of the château on the lake.
4. Maisons-Laffitte, Île-de-France
Maisons-Laffitte is a quieter escape, and autumn is the best time to visit.
The grand houses and leafy streets take on a golden hue, and there’s something so calming about walking in the castle’s park here, away from the crowds of Paris.
The château is impressive, of course, but it’s the peaceful atmosphere of the leafy town that always draws me back.
And to be honest, I have a soft spot for it because we lived there for five years and absolutely loved it.
5. Provins, Île-de-France
Stepping into Provins feels like stepping into the past, and in autumn, it’s even more captivating.
The medieval town is bathed in soft autumn light, and the ancient walls and towers stand out against the colourful trees.
I love exploring the cobbled streets and imagining the medieval fairs that once took place here.
There’s something truly charming about this town in the cooler months – it’s like history comes alive.
6. Nancy, Lorraine
Nancy in the autumn is an absolute delight.
The grand Place Stanislas is still as impressive as ever, but with the added beauty of falling leaves and that crisp autumn air.
I love wandering through the old town, where the Art Nouveau architecture really stands out against the seasonal colours.
And if you're a fan of pastries (who isn't?), the cafés here are perfect for grabbing a warm treat while taking in the city's charm.
7. Metz, Lorraine
Metz is a hidden gem, especially in the autumn.
The golden stone of the buildings seems to glow even more under the autumn light.
The cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows, is a must-see.
I also enjoy strolling along the Moselle River – the trees lining the riverbank turn beautiful shades of orange and red, making it a peaceful and scenic spot.
Metz in autumn feels like a place where history, culture, and nature blend perfectly.
8. Strasbourg, Alsace
Strasbourg in Autumn is a fairytale come to life.
The half-timbered houses look even more picturesque, framed by the colourful leaves, and the canals reflect the season’s beauty.
I love getting lost in the Petite France district, wandering through the narrow streets and over the charming bridges.
The whole city has a cosy, welcoming feel, especially as the air turns cooler.
Strasbourg is also gearing up for its famous Christmas market, so there’s a sense of anticipation in the air.
9. Alsace Wine Route, Alsace
Driving along the Alsace Wine Route in autumn is a dream.
The vineyards are turning golden, and the villages along the way – like Riquewihr and Eguisheim – look straight out of a storybook.
I always stop to sample the local wines, especially the crisp whites, which feel perfect for the season.
The whole route is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, and the slower pace of autumn makes it even more enjoyable.
10. Besançon, Franche-Comté
Besançon is a city that surprises me every time I visit, especially in autumn.
The Citadel, perched high above the town, offers amazing views of the surrounding hills draped in autumn colours.
I love the mix of old and new here – the historic buildings and the lively, modern feel of the town blend perfectly.
And with fewer tourists around in autumn, it's the ideal time to explore at your own pace.
11. Lac des Rousses, Franche-Comté
Lac des Rousses in autumn is pure tranquillity.
The surrounding forests turn vibrant shades of red and orange, reflecting beautifully on the lake's calm waters.
It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a quiet afternoon by the water, soaking up the fresh mountain air.
I always feel a deep sense of calm here, especially in autumn when nature is most stunning and the crowds are nowhere to be found.
12. Lake Annecy, French Alps
Lake Annecy is breathtaking in any season, but in autumn, it takes on a whole new level of beauty.
The mountains surrounding the lake are covered in fiery autumn colours, and the crisp air makes it perfect for a boat ride or a leisurely walk along the lakefront.
I’ve spent hours here, camera in hand, capturing the way the autumn light dances on the water.
The town itself, with its charming streets and cosy cafés, is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
13. Mont Blanc, French Alps
Mont Blanc in autumn is something special.
The cooler weather makes hiking more enjoyable, and the snow-capped peaks against the deep blue skies create a picture-perfect backdrop.
I love taking the time to explore the trails around the area, where the autumn colours add a whole new layer of beauty to the already stunning landscape.
Some of my favourite spots to admire Mont Blanc are from the heights of Saint-Anne in Sallanches, and the villages of Cordon and Combloux.
It’s quieter in autumn too, with fewer tourists, which means you can really take in the majesty of the mountains without the usual hustle and bustle.
14. Tarentaise Valley, French Alps
The Tarentaise Valley is a hidden gem in autumn.
While most people flock to this region for skiing in the winter, I find it just as stunning in the off-season.
The ski lifts may be closed, but the valley offers incredible hiking trails with views that make the effort well worth it.
One of my favourites is the hike to Plan Pichu from Granier.
The autumn colours, the crisp air, and the peace of the mountains make it feel like you have the entire place to yourself.
15. Luberon, Provence
Autumn in the Luberon is nothing short of enchanting.
The golden light, the harvest in full swing, and the quiet villages make it a dream destination at this time of year.
I love wandering through places like Gordes or Roussillon, where the ochre cliffs glow against the autumn sky.
The vineyards and olive groves are still bustling with activity, but there’s a calmness here that you don’t get in the busy summer months.
It’s the perfect place to slow down and savour the season.
Share Your Dream Autumn Destinations in France!
Autumn in France truly offers some of the most beautiful and peaceful experiences you can imagine.
Whether it’s the vibrant colours of the forests, the charm of the quiet villages, or the crisp mountain air, each destination has its own unique appeal.
I’ve loved exploring these places and capturing their beauty, but there’s always more to discover.
What about you?
Do you have a favourite place in France to visit during autumn, or perhaps a dream destination you’d love to explore?
Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below – I’d love to hear where you would go!
If you want to learn more about Autumn in France, check out the following articles on our website:
All there is to know about Autumn in France
50 Most Beautiful Photos of Autumn in France
French quotes and sayings about Autumn
Autumn Leaves: the story of the song
Colours of Autumn in Annecy: A Photographic Journey
Chasing Autumn in Provence: A Traveller’s Tale
All photos © French Moments