Paris has won the hearts of travelers for decades. It is known as ‘The City of Love’, boasting romance and becoming a top honeymoon destination. Although it is a long-time bucket list destination, travelers are looking for places to travel beyond the capital. Paris’ overwhelming crowd during the high season make locals and travelers want to flee from the city. So, what are the alternatives to Paris that you must visit for your next vacation? Hear out from our travel experts and French locals, who have designed trips to various Paris-esque destinations in Europe.
10 Alternatives to Paris – Summary
- Bordeaux
- Lyon
- Marseille
- Strasbourg
- Monaco
- Valencia, Spain
- Seville, Spain
- Berlin, Germany
- Bruges, Belgium
- Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Alternatives to Paris – Inside France
1. Bordeaux
Stray away from Paris’ bustling crowds to France’s renowned wine region. Like Paris, Bordeaux magnificent Renaissance buildings, aeshetically pleasing riverfront districts, and delicious upscale food. Lots of travelers, including TripLeader Merlin who has lived for 9 years in Europe, consider Bordeaux as mini Paris. When visiting the pretty city, make sure to stroll around Place de la Bourse, visit Cathedral Saint Andre of Bordeaux and snap pictures in front of the National Opera of Bordeaux.
Then, one thing you must not miss in Bordeaux is the wine. The liquor is massively sold in local markets to Michelin-starred restaurants. You can also visit La Cite du Vin or the wine museum to learn more about the city’s specialty. Dive deeper into the culinary scene by sampling Bordeaux cuisine, which uses a lot of seafood and meat, paired with local wine.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: Like Paris, it is a haven for food and architecture lovers for its wealth of Renaissance buildings, artistic streets, and mouthwatering choice of local food and wine.
Distance from Paris: 5 hours and 42 minutes drive
2. Lyon
Stretching a 2-hour train ride from Paris, Lyon offers romance and beauty similar to its neighbor. Centuries-old wonders and modern charms collaborate into an enchanting yet hospitable city. Lyon has been known as the unofficial food capital of France, as delightful cuisines were born in the city. You can try a heartwarming graton and famous quanelle dumplings on a culinary tour with your travel buddies. Moreover, Lyon has a ‘young’ soul as it is packed with universities and schools. You can enjoy both the view of centuries-old architecture and the lively atmosphere from the youth centers.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: The lively atmosphere mixed with romantic Renaissance-styled buildings in Lyon is similar to Paris. You can stay in the city and book a train ticket to watch the Paris Olympics
Distance from Paris: 2-hour train ride; 4 hours 30 minutes drive
3. Marseille
When looking for alternatives to Paris in France, travelers have their eyes on the French Riviera. The port city of Marseille offers a dreamy and relaxing escape for everyone. While Paris’ streets are facing the Seine River, Marseille’s promenades offer a view to the Mediterranean Sea. The white-sand shores and twinkling aquamarine sea of Marseille invite you to enjoy a perfect summer vacation.
Experience both historical immersion and a beach getaway as you travel to Marseille. Stop by the Old Port and learn about the region’s history in Mucem. Make your way into the coves of Calanques, which feature an outstanding natural landscape and quaint spot. Additionally, spend the night in the lively district of Cours Julien. Grab a drink and dance the night away with people around the world.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: It is a charming beach destination with a touch of culture and history. On the other hand, it is less touristy than the capital city.
Distance from Paris: 1 hour and 25 minutes flight
4. Strasbourg
“Strasbourg is a city with an interesting blend between German and French culture. It is home to delightful food, including choucroute garnie and regional wine. The prices are also very reasonable for every romantic thing the city has to offer,” said TripLeader Jai, a former IT who has traveled around Europe since1994.
This Northeastern French city is an enchanting hidden gem. Cottages built in Alsatian architecture line along the famous Petite France neighborhood. Their lovely architecture, adorned with blooming flowers and a flowing river, takes you into a fairytale land. Moreover, get ready to be stunned by the Gothic-styled buildings around the city. From the Notre Dame Cathedral to the Place Kleber Square, Strasbourg’s architecture is a work of art. Therefore, it is one of the cities like to Paris due to its architectural wonders and romantic vibes.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: It is a cultural and historical hotspot similar to Paris. Moreover, it has much lower prices than Paris for food, wine, and museums.
Distance from Paris: 1 hour and 25 minutes flight
5. Monaco
Got your eyes on social media viral ‘old money aesthetic’? Then, see the real-life scene in Monaco. This Southern France city is the epitome of luxury. You can find high-end casinos lining in Monte Carlo, packed with visitors dressed in famous brands. White-washed yachts sail along the glimmering aquamarine sea. Moreover, star-rated resorts and restaurants welcome everyone who are looking for a sumptuous vacation.
And who says you have to spend a crazy amount of money in Monaco? This city-state is dotted with elegant Renaissance buildings and well-preserved museums. Pay a visit to the Oceanographic and Marine Museum or snap pictures of the Monaco Cathedral.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: The luxurious atmosphere and beautiful architecture of Monaco is similar to what you can find in high-end district in Paris. Moreover, Monaco is much more relaxed than the capital, offering the perfect short escape
Distance from Paris: 1 hour and 25 minutes flight
Alternatives to Paris – Outside France
6. Valencia, Spain
Renowned for its emerging cultural scene, Valencia is a must-visit city in Spain. It features the blend between the old and the new through architecture. If Paris has the pyramid-shaped Louvre, Valencia has the dome-shaped City of Arts and Science. Moreover, the city keeps a record of history by showcasing Baroque cathedrals, 15th-century palaces, and antique districts. Strolling around the old quarter of Valencia will make you feel like you are walking along Renaissance-styled Parisian arrondissements.
Besides the culture, Valencia is also a culinary hotspot. It is the birthplace of paella, a world-famous Spanish rice dish. You can find family-owned restaurants that adopt the authentic way of cooking paella. Additionally, you can roam around food markets to hunt for tapas or fresh cheese. Valencia’s unique architecture and culinary wonders make it one of the best alternatives to Paris in Europe.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: Cheaper, less crowded, and more relaxed than Paris. On the other hand, Valencia has a thriving art scene and beautiful historical sites that might remind you of Paris.
Distance from Paris: 12-hour train ride; 2 hours flight
7. Seville, Spain
Seville is a must-visit in Spain. The city is less fancy, but it has beautiful architecture and a touch of romance similar to Paris,” said TripLeader Ellis from Italy who has traveled to 30 countries.
Seville is located in the heart of Andalusia, boasting cultural wonders and a rich history. It is famous for Mudéjar architecture, combining Islam and Christian culture Some examples include Plaza de Espana and the Royal Alcazar, which are too gorgeous to miss. When you visit Seville, do not miss digging into Andalusian cuisine. Munch on fresh seafood tapas smeared with sauce or deep-fried vegetables. Pair them with wine or manzanilla. You can find them while enjoying brilliant flamenco performances in bars.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: Similar romantic and vibrant vibe to Paris, a good destination for culinary
Distance from Paris: 2 hours flight
8. Berlin, Germany
Extensive history and remarkable landmarks – those are what Berlin is famous for. Berlin houses some of Europe’s fast-paced manufacturing and fashion industries. Moreover, the nightlife and beer craftsmanship in the city also deserve a shout-out. Simply put, you will never run out of things to do in Berlin!
Just like Paris, travelers visit Berlin to learn about history and enjoy the vibrant city. You would not want to miss the world-famous Brandenburg Gate and discover the truth about the Cold War at the Berlin Wall. After a whole day of history tour, you can relax with a glass of craft beer and savory bratwurst. Furthermore, wrap up the day by indulging in Berlin’s vibrant nightlife.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: Berlin is a city packed with history and remarkable architecture, just like Paris. Besides that, it is also a metropolitan offering vibrant parties and a wide range activities.
Distance from Paris: 8 hours train ride; 1 hour 45 minutes flight
9. Bruges, Belgium
When seeking alternatives to Paris, Bruges comes at the top of the list. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges offers a picturesque medieval atmosphere with its cobblestone streets, winding canals, and well-preserved Gothic architecture. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage are showcased in landmarks like the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
You can indulge in world-class Belgian chocolates, enjoy serene boat rides along the canals, and explore the bustling Markt Square. Moreover, the relatively close distance makes Bruges a popular day trip destination from Paris. So, if you are looking for a short escape after watching the Paris Olympics, Bruges is for you to visit!
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: Both are romantic cities in Europe with a brilliant culinary scene and beautiful architecture.
Distance from Paris: 3 hours and 30 minutes drive
10. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Stretching a 3-hour train ride from Paris, Amsterdam offers a unique blend of history, culture, and charm. Renowned for its intricate canal system, vibrant arts scene, and rich history, Amsterdam’s allure rivals that of Paris.
You can explore the city’s picturesque streets lined with iconic Dutch architecture, visit world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Jordaan district. The city’s charming canals, renowned bicycle culture, and bustling cafés provide a romantic and dynamic backdrop, making Amsterdam a compelling alternative to Paris for travelers seeking a memorable European experience.
Why is it a great alternative to Paris: The relatively close distance to Paris and a resemblance in the art and cultural scene
Distance from Paris: 3-hour train ride; 6 hours drive
Whether you want to escape the crowds of Paris or adding more stamps in your passport, these alternatives to Paris are worth to check out. Level up your Paris Olympics agenda by traveling around other French cities and neighboring European countries.
So, do you want to travel hassle-free around Europe? Or maybe do you want to find friends to travel with during the Paris Olympics period? JoinMyTrip is your perfect partner! We have a collection of Europe, including France, trips that happen within the timeline of Paris Olympics. You can enjoy tailor-made itineraries and meet new travel buddies along the way.
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