Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to France (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip to France is an invaluable step for anyone considering a move to this culturally rich country. Such a trip allows potential expats to explore various cities and towns, get a feel for the local lifestyle, and assess practical matters like housing, schools, and amenities. It's an opportunity to envision daily life beyond the allure of vacation hotspots, ensuring that the decision to move is well-informed and aligns with personal and professional needs.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Paris to experience the cosmopolitan lifestyle, then head to Lyon for a taste of French gastronomy. Next, explore the charm of Aix-en-Provence before concluding in Nice for a glimpse of the Riviera life. A 20-day trip allows for a deeper exploration. Begin in Paris, then move to Bordeaux for its wine culture. Visit Toulouse and Montpellier for a blend of technology and tradition, and then slow down in the quaint towns of the Loire Valley. Finish your journey in the Alps, considering cities like Grenoble or Annecy for their proximity to nature.

Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is a hub for international expats and digital nomads. With a population of over 2 million, it offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with countless cultural experiences. The cost of living is high, but the city's diverse arrondissements each offer unique atmospheres. Expats appreciate the extensive public transportation system and the blend of historical charm with modern conveniences.

Travel Tip: While the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are must-sees, don't miss the chance to dine at Le Procope, the oldest cafe in Paris, steeped in literary and revolutionary history.

Lyon

Lyon is France's third-largest city and a gastronomic haven. It's known for its dynamic culinary scene, renaissance architecture, and a strong economy, particularly in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. The cost of living is more affordable than Paris, and the city offers a high quality of life with its parks, museums, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Travel Tip: Experience the local cuisine at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a renowned indoor food market named after the famous chef.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a picturesque town in the South of France, known for its warm climate, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It's smaller and more laid-back than Paris or Lyon, with a population of around 140,000. The cost of living is moderate, and the town is popular among retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life within reach of Mediterranean beaches.

Travel Tip: Visit Cézanne's studio, Atelier de Cézanne, to see where the famous painter created many of his works.

Nice

Nice is a coastal city on the French Riviera, famed for its stunning seafront, cultural festivals, and mild Mediterranean climate. With a population of about 340,000, it offers a relaxed lifestyle with the allure of the beach and the sophistication of city life. The cost of living is high, especially in seafront areas, but many expats find the quality of life worth the expense.

Travel Tip: Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais or relax on the pebbly beaches for a true Nice experience.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a port city on the Garonne River, globally recognized for its wine industry. It has a population of approximately 250,000 and offers a blend of historical architecture and modern development. The cost of living is reasonable, and the city is attractive to expats interested in wine, culture, and a more relaxed urban environment.

Travel Tip: Explore La Cité du Vin, an innovative museum that offers a journey through the world of wine.

Toulouse

Toulouse, known as 'La Ville Rose' due to its terracotta brick buildings, is a center for the aerospace industry. With a population of around 470,000, it offers a vibrant cultural scene and a strong job market. The cost of living is moderate, and the city is popular with expats working in tech and research fields.

Travel Tip: Visit the iconic Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a youthful and dynamic city near the Mediterranean coast, with a population of about 280,000. It's known for its universities, cultural diversity, and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The cost of living is affordable, and the city is favored by expats and digital nomads for its innovation and quality of life.

Travel Tip: Discover the historic Place de la Comédie and the nearby Musée Fabre for a dose of local culture and art.

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is renowned for its vineyards, historic towns, and châteaux. It's an ideal region for those seeking a quieter lifestyle amidst France's rural beauty. Key towns to explore include Tours, with its old quarter and modern amenities, and Amboise, known for its royal château and links to Leonardo da Vinci. The cost of living varies but is generally lower than in the major cities.

Travel Tip: Visit the Château de Chenonceau, a stunning castle spanning the River Cher, often referred to as the 'Ladies' Château' for its female influences.

The French Alps

The French Alps region offers breathtaking scenery and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cities like Grenoble and Annecy are gateways to the mountains, providing a balance between city comforts and access to nature. Grenoble is a hub for science and industry, while Annecy is known for its medieval old town and crystal-clear lake. The cost of living is higher in tourist areas but can be more reasonable in smaller towns.

Travel Tip: In Annecy, don't miss the chance to walk along the Lake Annecy shore and visit the Palais de l'Isle, a historic building on an islet in the Thiou canal.