You should consider two iconic areas of France while visiting: the French countryside and the French Riviera.
When you think of France, you may only think of Paris. The city of love is definitely iconic and an amazing place for you to visit, but the rest of France has some legitimate hidden beauty waiting to be explored. You should consider two iconic areas of France: the French countryside and the French Riviera. Both are different locations, but each have plenty to offer for travelers. Read on to learn more!
Why Visit the French Riviera
There isn’t any other place quite like the French Riviera when it comes to seeing or being seen. From the star-studded Cannes Film Festival being hosted here to the glorious excess of yachts, you’re guaranteed world-class people-watching here, especially at many fancy restaurants and chi-chi hotels that cater to the regions own glitterati. The nightlife here is great, too. With a different hot spot for every hour of the day, you won’t ever suffer from being dressed up with nowhere to go. You can start off with Nikki Beach in Saint-Tropez, a go-to spot for international jet setters. Sip on some cocktails at Le Meridien, which is an iconic establishment located right on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, or dance your night away under the palm trees in La Baoli in Cannes. Shopping here is great as well. From Prada to Chanel, the famous Cercle d’Or in Monte Carlo is a must if you love to shop. Art in the French Riviera is wonderful as well. Revolutionary painters like Renoir, Picasso, Chagall, Monet, and many others have all been drawn to the beauty of the Cote d’Azur, and their lasting impressions can be seen at different museums close by.
Why Visit the French Countryside
Just a short train ride out of Lyon is Vienne. There are ancient Roman ruins here, as well as an amphitheater that will take you back in time, all the while enjoying a nice glass of wine at one of the cute and lovely cafes near the ruins. Further down, close to the river is a beautiful church that will really take your breath away. Make sure you visit the park and take a walk down the river. You could also visit Macon, which is a 40-minute train ride from Lyon. The river here is beautiful, and on weekends, there is a market that takes place along the riverbanks. Everything in Macon is central, which makes it an easy-to-walk location. On your way down from the train station towards a river, you will also pass plenty of cool shops. In the Bourgogne region of France, Bourg-en-Bresse has a lovely and relaxed vibe. This cute town has an old but relaxed feeling with a range of modern boutique shops to check out. We at AESU have a young alumni tour to Provence and the French Riviera in 2024, so visit our website to learn more!
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan an adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal—designed just for people your own age. We are also able to design custom tours just for your group.
Experience an exhilarating adventure in 2023 with our Iceland Airwaves tour! 2024 dates are now available for all trips at www.aesu.com. Check out our special early bird deals for the Cosmopolitan (COS), and Great Escape tours! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.