The Most Charming French Villages to Visit This Summer
June 18, 2025
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Travel Joural
6 Best Summer Destinations in France for 2025
Summer is just around the corner, and we can already feel the warmth of the sun and the promise of new adventures ahead.
For many of us, summer in France is about slowing down and truly living in the moment. We love this time of year; those long, light-filled days that seem to stretch on forever, the delicious meals shared with friends, and the feeling of sand between your toes or the scent of lavender in the air.
Whether you’re looking for quiet villages and gentle landscapes, or coastal towns buzzing with life, there’s a corner of France waiting to be explored. Here are our top 6 destinations for a perfect summer holiday in France; each with its own charm and a little something for everyone.
Les Alpilles
This year, we’re heading back to the magical landscapes of the Alpilles; limestone hills, ancient olive groves, and fields of lavender that go on and on. We love wandering the cobbled streets of Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy, and taking time to soak in the art and culture at the Carrières de Lumières. If you’re feeling inspired, don’t miss a trip to Arles, the city comes alive each summer with its photography festival.
Le Bassin d’Arcachon
Everyone knows the Dune du Pilat and Cap Ferret, but we always recommend heading off the beaten path to the heart of the Bassin. Surrounded by quiet nature reserves and charming harbours, it’s a place to slow down and soak in the peaceful rhythm of life here. Best of all? Most of it can be explored by bike and arriving by train at Biganos is a great way to start your journey with a smaller carbon footprint.
The Basque Country
If you’re craving a mix of adventure and natural beauty, the Basque Country is our go-to. We always find ourselves drawn to the endless beaches and pine forests here, not to mention the amazing surf spots. From the laid-back vibes of Biarritz and Hossegor to the local charm of Bayonne and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, there’s so much to explore. And don’t forget to take a little trip into the hills to discover places like Itxassou and Espelette or even cross over to San Sebastian for the day!
Corsica
For sun-drenched days and a real escape, there’s nowhere quite like Corsica. Its beaches are some of the best in France, but if you feel like switching things up, head inland for mountain hikes and secret swimming spots. From boat trips around the Lavezzi Islands to sunset kayaking and coastal walks, Corsica is where we go when we’re craving a little bit of everything.
The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley never gets old, those beautiful castles seem to belong in a fairytale. We always love stopping here, even if just for a day on the way to the coast. Each château has its own story, and whether you’re admiring a grand staircase or wandering a lush potager garden, it’s a place that truly captures the magic of summer in France.
Saint-Malo & Brittany
There’s something timeless about the Brittany coast; the rugged cliffs, quiet coves, and the rich traditions of the region. We love basing ourselves in Saint-Malo for long days on the beach, surfing, and of course, crêpes and fresh seafood. Make sure to save time for a road trip to explore nearby gems like Dinan, the Île Besnard, or the wild cliffs of the pointe du Meinga.
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