13 Stunning French Coastal Towns You Need to Visit Before Everyone Else Does!
You might think France's best-kept secrets lie inland, but these breathtaking coastal towns will make you rethink your next trip to the French Riviera or Normandy!
1. Saint-Tropez (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur)
Saint-Tropez is famous worldwide for its glamorous lifestyle, attracting celebrities and yacht owners from around the globe. Beyond the luxury, you’ll find charming streets, colorful markets, and beautiful beaches. It’s a beautiful mix of high-end living and old-world charm on the French Riviera.
2. Honfleur (Normandy)
Honfleur is a postcard-perfect harbor town in Normandy with charming, narrow streets and historic buildings. Its old port has inspired many painters, including Monet. The town offers a quaint atmosphere and delicious seafood.
3. La Rochelle (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
La Rochelle is a lively coastal town on the Atlantic coast with a rich history and a stunning old harbor. Its impressive medieval towers overlook the sea. The town has great beaches, seafood restaurants, and rich culture. Truly a fantastic place to explore.
4. Collioure (Occitanie)
Collioure is a beautiful town near the Spanish border with a mix of French and Catalan influences. Its colorful streets, impressive castle, and seaside views have inspired artists for years. Visitor love Collioure for the art, history, and stunning coastal scenery.
5. Biarritz (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
Biarritz is a famous surf town in the French Basque Country with beautiful beaches and a stylish atmosphere. It’s known for its mix of luxury and relaxed coastal living. A great destination surfers, beach lovers, and foodies.
6. Cassis (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur)
Cassis is a lovely fishing village with pastel-colored houses and narrow streets. It’s located next to the Calanques, steep limestone cliffs around Marseille that drop straight into the turquoise waters. You can enjoy boat trips, wine tasting, and relaxed afternoons by the sea in this picture-perfect town.
7. Saint-Malo (Brittany)
Saint-Malo is a walled city with an incredible history and some of the best beaches in northern France. The old town’s fortifications are impressive, and walking along the city walls offers stunning views of the sea.
8. Dinard (Brittany)
Dinard is a classic French seaside resort known for its Belle Époque villas and beautiful beaches. The town has a laid-back vibe, great for a relaxing getaway on a quieter side of Brittany. You'll enjoy scenic coastal walks and stunning views and experience .
9. Arcachon (Gironde)
Arcachon is a delightful town on the Atlantic coast, famous for its oyster farms and the incredible Dune du Pilat - Europe’s tallest sand dune. You can relax on the beach, have some fresh oysters, or climb the dune for panoramic views.
10. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme (Hauts de France)
Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is a picturesque town with its medieval charm, cobblestone streets, and historical buildings. You can walk along the old city walls, explore quaint shops, or take a boat tour for a chance to see seals. It also has great views of the Baie de Somme. A historic, scenic atmosphere with plenty of places to wander.
