French Open 2024: Small French Towns That Look Straight Out Of A Storybook

Waquar Habib

Eguisheim

Nestled in the Alsace region, Eguisheim enchants with its colourful half-timbered houses and circular cobblestone streets. The town's charming medieval architecture, lush vineyards, and flower-adorned balconies create a picturesque scene. Major attractions include the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Church and the delightful annual wine festivals.

Historical village in Eguisheim rainy weather | Shutterstock

Colmar

Often called "Little Venice," Colmar's canals, timber-framed houses, and flower-filled window boxes give it a fairy-tale allure. The town boasts impressive sites like the Unterlinden Museum, housing the Isenheim Altarpiece, and the charming Tanners' District with its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Colmar, a charming town in Alsace, France, a famous tourist destination for its vineyards, traditional houses, canals, floral displays | Shutterstock

Riquewihr

This Alsace gem captivates with its perfectly preserved 16th-century buildings and fortified walls. Riquewihr's cobbled streets, vibrant facades, and surrounding vineyards make it look like a scene from a storybook. Key attractions include the Thieves' Tower and the Dolder Gate, offering panoramic views of the town and countryside.

Old city of Riquewihr | Shutterstock

Yvoire

On the shores of Lake Geneva, Yvoire is a medieval village known for its floral displays and stunning lake views. The town's stone houses, narrow streets, and well-preserved ramparts add to its fairy-tale charm. Highlights include the Garden of Five Senses and the 14th-century Yvoire Castle.

Lakeside view of Castle in French city Yvoire | Shutterstock

Gordes

Perched on a hill in Provence, Gordes offers breathtaking views and charming stone buildings. Its labyrinthine streets, ancient castle, and the nearby Senanque Abbey, surrounded by lavender fields, create a magical atmosphere. The town's weekly market showcases local crafts and produce, adding to its allure.

Gordes village in France on a sunny day | Shutterstock

Annecy

Often called the "Pearl of the French Alps," Annecy features a stunning lake, canals, and pastel-coloured houses. The town's highlights include the medieval Annecy Castle, the picturesque Jardins de l'Europe, and the lively Old Town with its vibrant markets and quaint shops.

Lavender planted around the bay of the village on the French Alps lake of Annecy | Shutterstock

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Perched on a cliff above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a medieval village with narrow, winding streets and stone houses. Its breathtaking views, historic church, and artistic heritage make it a captivating destination. The town's charm is enhanced by its beautiful gardens and panoramic viewpoints.

From Bouzies to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie towpath route. Occitania, France | Shutterstock

Dinan

Dinan's well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses create a storybook setting in Brittany. Major attractions include the impressive Dinan Castle, the scenic Port of Dinan on the Rance River, and the vibrant Rue du Jerzual, lined with artisan shops and cafes.

Detail of the streets of Dinan | Shutterstock

Rochefort-en-Terre

This picturesque Breton village is known for its flower-filled streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. Rochefort-en-Terre's highlights include the beautiful Notre-Dame-de-la-Tronchaye Church, the enchanting Château de Rochefort-en-Terre, and its vibrant art galleries and craft shops.

A residential street in Rochefort-en-Terre | Shutterstock

Honfleur

Located on the Normandy coast, Honfleur's historic harbour, timber-framed houses, and narrow streets make it a picturesque destination. The town's major attractions include the stunning Sainte-Catherine's Church, the Vieux Bassin harbour, and the renowned Eugene Boudin Museum, celebrating the region's artistic heritage.

Waterfront with beautiful old buildings in Honfleur | Shutterstock

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