When you think of France, it’s easy to conjure up images of sitting in a cafe to the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in Paris or walking along the coastline in Nice. But there’s more to the country than the cities that made it a hotspot with holidaymakers. Next time you head to France, why not discover somewhere new? Where, you ask? Read on and find out about our five hidden gems in France.
1) Calais
Calais lies along the English Channel in northern France and is an often-overlooked city with tourists who treat it as somewhere they pass through on the way to their destination. However, Calais is well worth your attention with its restaurant scene, shopping amenities and sandy beaches.
Shopaholics will enjoy visiting Cité Europe’s colossal shopping centre and Centre Ville with its boutiques and independent shops. There’s also a local market where you can find a gem or two. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving seafood dotted around Calais, while Plage de Calais is the main beach and somewhere you can spend lazing a few hours away under the sun.
2) Dunkirk
Famous for Operation Dynamo, a military operation that saw the rescue of 300,000 Allied soldiers during World War II, Dunkirk is steeped in history. Today, it has become a holiday destination, especially for Brits who hop on a ferry, which you can book with Ferryscanner, just 20km away in Dover.
The beaches here are a huge draw, with spots like Plage de Malo-les-Bains offering four kilometres of sands where you can relax, enjoy water sports, and sample the many cafes and restaurants along the promenade. It also has historical significance as the beach where the evacuation took place in World War II.
3) Dieppe
Another gem located along the northern coast of France, Dieppe sits on the mouth of the river Arques and enjoys close proximity to Paris. There are several beaches where you catch some rays, including Plage du Petit Ailly and Plage de Dieppe, which is the main beach in the town.
Discover history in Dieppe, which also has strong ties to World War II, with a visit to Le Memorial du 19 Aout 1942. It’s set in an old theatre building and honours the sacrifices of the Allied soldiers. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, head to Les Bains Aquatique and Spa, a year-round spa with pools, a gym and a wellness centre.
4) Cherbourg
Once a hotspot with Vikings, the city of Cherbourg has long been a popular tourist destination. A visit today offers the chance to enjoy culinary delights, take in the local history and culture and spend some time trying out the different beaches.
Thomas Henry Museum is the place to go for a spot of culture, thanks to its fine art that features over 300 paintings and sculptures. You can also visit several markets in Cherbourg, where you’ll find everything from fresh fruits to flowers. If you’re looking for a sandy beach, try Plage du Bretteville, which is around a 15-minute drive from the city.
5) Sete
Sete is your gateway to the French Riviera and is a more affordable option than most of the other places in the area. It’s located between the Mediterranean and the Etang de Thau lagoon and offers plenty of charm without any of the hustle and bustle found in nearby areas.
A trip to Sete affords you the chance to laze on small beaches with soft sands and dip your toes in the Mediterranean sea. Why not visit a museum on your visit to Sete with a trip to Theatre Moliere, which hosts theatrical productions, music concerts, dance and jazz events.
Discovering other parts of France
The next time you visit France, opt for something a little different by visiting one of the hidden gems on our list. From soft, sandy beaches to an abundance of history – as well as great food and shops – you’ll discover another side of the country and might even find your next favourite holiday hotspot.