Holidays in France: Locals travel to these insider tips
Romantic coastal landscapes in Normandy, vineyards and medieval towns in Burgundy or the exciting life in the metropolises –France is an incredibly multifaceted country.
The vacation rental portal "Hometogo" analyzed which vacation destinations in France are particularly popular with locals. The results revealed ten insider tips that impress with regional charm, impressive nature, and the French way of life – but are still largely unknown to German travelers. We'll introduce you to five of these special places here.
The first insider tip is located in the far north of France, two hours from the Belgian border. Le Crotoy lies on the Bay of Somme and has always been an ideal seaside resort during the summer months due to its dune landscape and numerous sandbanks.
Many famous artists felt at home on the beach at Le Crotoy.
Source: Getty Images
The expansive bay and the unique light of the coastal landscape captivated painters such as Alfred Sisley and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec in the 19th and 20th centuries. The writer Jules Verne lived at the port of Crotoy for several years, during which time he wrote his famous novel "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea."
Le Crotoy is located on the Bay of Somme.
Source: IMAGO/Andia
The town has retained its poetic character to this day. A highlight is the nostalgic narrow-gauge railway, which chugs leisurely through the bay landscape. Sheep and horses graze on the green salt marshes, and numerous seabirds can be observed. Those taking a boat trip in the bay also have the chance to see seals. Visitors shouldn't miss the black mussels cultivated in the bay and the fresh fish.
The Île-d'Aix is a tiny, car-free island off the French Atlantic coast, located between Bordeaux and Nantes. Just three kilometers long and 700 meters wide, it's a true gem—quiet, diverse, and accessible only by ferry.
The lighthouses on the Île-d'Aix.
Source: imago images/UIG
The island is best explored on foot or by bike. A well-maintained circular trail leads past all the sights: historic military buildings like Fort Liédot, two picturesque lighthouses, the colorfully overgrown houses in the village, and, of course, the wild coastal region. The unspoiled and quiet beaches in the west are ideal for strolls. The sandy beach of La Plage d'Or and the Mediterranean bay of La Plage Baby in the east of the island are perfect for swimming.
In the village there are pretty houses with flowers.
Source: IMAGO
Historically, Île-d'Aix is inextricably linked to Napoleon Bonaparte. After his defeat at Waterloo, he sought refuge on the island in July 1815 before being exiled to St. Helena. His former quarters are now a museum. There are few accommodations and restaurants, making Île-d'Aix a great insider tip for those seeking peace and quiet or wanting to spend a weekend in nature.
Located in the far northwest of France, in Normandy, lies the small town of Portbail. It offers a perfect blend of sea, dunes, and nature—and is still largely unknown to German tourists.
A shipwreck in Portbail, with the Romanesque church visible in the background.
Source: IMAGO/Pond5 Images
A relaxed atmosphere prevails in this former fishing village. Every Tuesday morning, the market takes place in the center: Here you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, cheese, cider, and Calvados. The listed Notre-Dame Church with its 11th-century fortress tower is worth a visit.
Dune landscape near Portbail.
Source: IMAGO/imagebroker
The surrounding area is also worth exploring: The village is located in the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin Nature Park, whose diverse landscape is a popular destination for families. The coast is also ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Ferry connections to the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey are also available from the harbor.
The wine capital of Burgundy is a true highlight for anyone who loves fine dining, culture, and historical scenery. Located just 40 kilometers south of Dijon, Beaune enchants with its medieval old town, crooked half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and impressive buildings.
The small town of Beaune is known for its wine and mustard.
Source: IMAGO/robertharding
As the center of Burgundy's winemaking, Beaune is known above all for its traditional wine cellars. During tastings or tours through the surrounding vineyards, you can sample wines such as Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, or Chassagne-Montrachet. The famous Dijon mustard is also part of the city's culinary heritage: Beaune was long one of France's most important mustard-making centers.
There are several vineyards in the area around Beaune.
Source: Getty Images/iStockphoto
The town itself is surrounded by impressive 15th-century city walls. Among the most important sights are the colorful Hôtel-Dieu, a former 15th-century hospital for the poor, and the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Getting there is incredibly easy: From Paris, there's a TGV train to Beaune, which takes about two hours.
The next insider tip is located halfway between Bordeaux and Toulouse and bears the amusing name of Condom. This quiet little town may have nothing to do with contraceptives, but it does have a connection with Armagnac. The brandy is produced only in the southern French region and is considered the oldest spirit in the country. Visitors can enjoy this fine spirit in many restaurants – those who want to learn more about the production process should visit the Armagnac Museum in the former bishop's palace.
The town of Condom on the banks of the Baïse.
Source: IMAGO/Pond5 Images
Condom lies on the Via Podiensis, a French section of the Way of St. James. At the heart of the town stands the late-Gothic Saint-Pierre Cathedral, dating back to the 16th century. Visitors are captivated not only by the interior, with its enormous stained-glass windows, but also by a monument in front of the church. It is dedicated to the leader of the Musketeers, Charles d'Artagnan, who came from the area, and his three friends, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. The related novels by Alexandre Dumas are world-famous and have been adapted into films over 100 times.
“One for all, all for one”: A statue of the Four Musketeers stands in Condom.
Source: imago stock&people
There's also plenty to discover in the surrounding area. The medieval village of Larressingle is particularly worth seeing: A bridge leads through an imposing city gate into the well-preserved old town, where you feel as if you've been transported back in time. The village of Montréal is no less charming, with its covered arcades and a Gothic church that completes the historic center.
Need more inspiration? Here's an overview of the French people's ten favorite vacation spots.
The top 10 insider tips for France:
- Condom, Occitania
- Beaune, Burgundy-Franche-Comté
- Portbail, Normandy
- Île-d'Aix, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
- Le Crotoy, Hauts-de-France
- Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
- Villefranche-sur-Saone, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes
- Veules-les-Roses, Normandy
- Guilvinec, Brittany
- Villeurbanne, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes
Looking for more inspiration? You can find tips for all the top travel destinations at reisereporter, and the best travel deals on our deals page .
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