7 Idyllic Country Towns in France You’ll Want to Call Home
French Country Towns That Will Make You Want to Pack Your Bags
Having lived in big cities like Paris, London, and Sydney, I reached a point around the age of 35 when I started craving the countryside.
Many provincials living in Paris share this dream.
“Métro, boulot, dodo…”
Enough of the crowds, the endless noise, and the rush of urban life!
The recent pandemic has reshuffled the cards, allowing many to finally make this dream a reality.
Indeed, for many, the pandemic was the wake-up call they needed, urging them to seek a simpler and slower pace.
The lure of small French towns has never been stronger.
Remote work has made it easier to swap cramped city apartments for a house with a garden, fresh air, and a sense of community.
It's not just a passing trend either.
Small and medium-sized towns have been attracting more people than ever.
The charm of these places lies in their ability to offer a mix of history, culture, and a lifestyle where time is the most precious commodity.
7 French Country Towns Worth Visiting
So, let’s now take a tour of seven delightful country towns in France—places where you might want to set down some roots.
Amboise
Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, Amboise is a gem of the Loire Valley.
This charming town is surrounded by vineyards, rolling countryside, and an air of history that transports you back in time.
Its winding streets and half-timbered houses exude a quaint, old-world feel.
Amboise is best known for its stunning château, which was once a royal residence and even welcomed Leonardo da Vinci in his final years.
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Today, the town boasts a rich cultural scene, with markets, local festivals, and cosy cafés lining the main square.
For those seeking a quiet place to call home, Amboise offers the perfect mix of history and tranquillity.
Imagine long walks along the river, weekend visits to nearby castles, and a friendly community that warmly welcomes newcomers.
Whether you’re planning a long holiday or a more permanent move, this small town will easily capture your heart with its laid-back lifestyle and picturesque surroundings.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Amboise!
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5 Reasons to Visit Amboise:
Rich History – Visit the Château d'Amboise, a former royal residence with stunning views of the Loire River.
Cultural Heritage – Explore Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci, now a museum dedicated to his life and works.
Scenic Location – Nestled along the Loire River, perfect for leisurely strolls and riverside picnics.
Vineyards and Wine – Situated in the Loire Valley, you can tour local vineyards and enjoy wine tastings.
Vibrant Markets – Enjoy the weekly open-air market filled with local products, fresh produce, and crafts.
Beaune
In the heart of Burgundy, Beaune is a paradise for wine lovers and history buffs alike.
Surrounded by world-renowned vineyards, this town is the gateway to some of France’s most exquisite wines.
Beaune’s medieval streets are lined with stone houses, and its historic centre is crowned by the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century building with its iconic multi-coloured roof tiles.
Life here revolves around the seasons of the vineyard, with festivals, markets, and wine tastings creating a vibrant atmosphere.
For those dreaming of a peaceful life in the countryside, Beaune offers a warm, welcoming community, delicious food, and, of course, exceptional wine.
Imagine settling into a slower rhythm, enjoying evenings at a local bistro, and exploring the rolling hills that stretch in every direction.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Beaune!
5 Reasons to Visit Beaune:
Wine Lovers’ Paradise – Located in the heart of Burgundy, it's surrounded by some of the world’s finest vineyards.
Historic Architecture – Marvel at the Hospices de Beaune, with its stunning multi-coloured tiled roof.
Gourmet Cuisine – Sample regional delicacies such as escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and a variety of cheeses.
Lively Markets – Visit the Saturday market for fresh, local products and Burgundy wine.
Beautiful Countryside – Easy access to the scenic Burgundy countryside, perfect for cycling and hiking.
Dinan
Perched on a hill overlooking the Rance River, Dinan is Brittany at its most enchanting.
With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and medieval ramparts, Dinan feels like stepping into a fairytale.
This walled town, dating back to the 11th century, is rich in history, and its old port adds a touch of maritime charm.
The local culture is vibrant, with Breton festivals, artisan shops, and markets full of local produce.
Dinan’s slower pace and stunning surroundings make it a delightful spot for those craving a life away from the bustle.
Whether for a holiday retreat or a new home, living here means morning strolls along the river, afternoons exploring ancient streets, and an ever-present connection to history.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Dinan!
5 Reasons to Visit Dinan:
Medieval Charm – Wander through cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and historic buildings.
Stunning Views – Enjoy panoramic views of the Rance River from the town’s medieval ramparts.
Artisan Shops – Browse unique shops selling local crafts, including pottery, jewellery, and textiles.
Cultural Events – Experience Breton festivals, music, and local traditions throughout the year.
Riverside Walks – The port and river offer scenic walking paths and opportunities for boating.
Nyons
Nestled in the Provençal Drôme, Nyons is blessed with a Mediterranean climate and surrounded by olive groves, lavender fields, and rolling hills.
The town is known for its olive oil, often dubbed the ‘gold of Nyons,’ and its colourful markets, brimming with local produce, offer a taste of Provence’s bounty.
Its stone fountains, narrow streets, and sun-soaked squares exude a warmth that is hard to resist.
Life in Nyons is about savouring the simple pleasures: sipping coffee in a café, wandering through weekly markets, or hiking in the nearby Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Park.
For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, Nyons provides the ideal setting.
It’s a place where nature and tradition go hand in hand, perfect for long vacations or a permanent escape.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Nyons!
5 Reasons to Visit Nyons:
Sunny Climate – Benefit from the Mediterranean weather, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
Olive Groves – Taste some of the best olive oil in France, produced locally in Nyons' olive groves.
Local Markets – Explore bustling markets offering Provençal produce, from lavender honey to fresh herbs.
Nature Surroundings – Enjoy hiking in the Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Park nearby.
Relaxed Lifestyle – A slower pace of life, perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle of city living.
Obernai
Obernai is a picture-perfect blend of vineyards, history, and half-timbered houses at the foot of the Vosges Mountains in Alsace.
Its colourful facades, cobbled streets, and old city walls make it one of the most beautiful towns in the region.
Obernai’s wine route, lined with vineyards and traditional wine cellars, is a treat for enthusiasts.
The town has a lively cultural scene, with events celebrating local heritage, gastronomy, and wine.
For those dreaming of country life, Obernai offers a warm community, an abundance of outdoor activities, and the beauty of Alsatian traditions.
Imagine wandering through vineyards, enjoying local cuisine at a winstub, and soaking in the stunning views of the countryside—a perfect mix for a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Obernai!
5 Reasons to Visit Obernai:
Wine Route – Located on the Alsace Wine Route, offering plenty of opportunities for wine tasting at local cellars.
Stunning Scenery – Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, with picturesque views at every turn.
Rich Traditions – Discover Alsatian culture through its festivals, markets, and traditional wining and dining spots.
Vibrant Town Centre – The charming town square is lined with half-timbered houses, shops, and cafés.
Outdoor Activities – Ideal base for hiking and exploring the nearby Vosges Mountains.
Provins
A medieval gem located just an hour from Paris, Provins is like stepping back in time.
This town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts stunning medieval architecture, including well-preserved city walls, towers, and half-timbered houses.
The annual medieval festivals and traditional markets breathe life into its cobblestone streets.
Provins is surrounded by fields and forests, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Living here means embracing a slower, more connected way of life while still having easy access to the capital.
It's an ideal spot for those seeking the best of both worlds: the peace of the countryside and the cultural buzz of Paris just a short train ride away.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Provins!
5 Reasons to Visit Provins:
Medieval Atmosphere – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved medieval walls, towers, and architecture.
Historical Festivals – Known for its medieval fairs and festivals, bringing history to life in a lively manner.
Convenient Location – Just an hour from Paris, offering a quick escape from the capital’s hustle and bustle.
Unique Shopping – Browse shops selling medieval-inspired crafts, local foods, and handmade goods.
Outdoor Adventures – Surrounded by fields and forests, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and hiking.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Deep in the heart of the Dordogne, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a stunning medieval town surrounded by lush valleys and forests.
Its golden-stone buildings, narrow alleyways, and lively squares give it a timeless charm.
Sarlat is renowned for its vibrant markets, where the scents of truffles, foie gras, and walnuts fill the air.
The town's rich history is palpable, with Renaissance-era architecture at every turn.
Sarlat offers the perfect balance of tranquillity, culture, and cuisine for those dreaming of country life.
Imagine spending weekends exploring caves, kayaking along the Dordogne River, and feasting local delicacies.
It’s a place where life slows down, allowing you to savour every moment in one of the most beautiful regions of France.
🛏️ Click here to book your accommodation in Sarlat!
5 Reasons to Visit Sarlat:
Renaissance Beauty – It's golden-stone buildings and narrow streets create a romantic, historical ambience.
Gastronomy – A foodie’s haven known for local delicacies like truffles, foie gras, and walnuts.
Lively Markets – Enjoy one of the best markets in France, filled with regional products and local crafts.
Natural Wonders – Close to stunning sites like the Dordogne River, perfect for kayaking and exploring.
Cultural Richness – Numerous festivals, concerts, and theatre performances bring the town to life year-round.
Your Turn: Which Countryside Gem is for You?
These seven French country towns each offer a unique charm and lifestyle, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat or a new place to call home.
Whether it's the historical allure of Amboise, the vineyards of Beaune, or the medieval beauty of Sarlat-la-Canéda, each of these towns invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and savour the simpler things in life.
Of course, France is full of hidden gems that could have easily made this list.
Places like Bergues with its quaint Flemish charm, Honfleur’s picturesque harbour, the elegance of Chantilly, the medieval market town of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, the Provençal feel of Forcalquier, the historical depth of Soissons, and Avallon perched on its wooded spur.
Each town has its own character and story, offering countless options for a countryside escape.
So, which town would be your top pick?
Or perhaps there's another one that has captured your heart?
Let us know—we’d love to hear your thoughts!