How to Experience the Lesser-Known Parts of France

You have surely heard people say that Paris, France, is one of the most romantic cities in the world, with thousands of loved up couples traveling there each year to get engaged, honeymoon or celebrate a milestone. While this is most certainly true, there’s so much more to France than just Paris. With incredible architecture in Marseille, charming shops and cafes lining the Quartier St.-Leu’s in Amiens, and plenty of other cities and towns to see, let’s dive into the lesser-known parts of France.

Landing in Paris

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While Paris may not be your final or main destination, it is a good starting point as flights will be cheaper if you land at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in the capital of Paris. A good way to explore Paris is actually on foot to begin with, and then change over to the tram or underground system to really get a feel for how the locals travel. Europe in general is known for its inexpensive travel options and amazing public transport, and Paris is no exception. While you are welcome to rent a car or use private taxi services, if you really want to live how the Parisians live, then the underground and tram are the way to go.

The good thing about such a touristy place is that the Parisians think in terms of tourists, meaning they cater to all kinds of travelers and budgets, and they also have different tours on offer depending on your requirements and desires.

Whether you prefer to be among lots of people and visit the Eiffel Tower for example, which is free of charge by the way (unless you actually want to go up to the top), or keep it more low-key and go underground with tickets for catacombs of Paris, the good people of France have got you covered.

Marvel at Marseille

So Paris is in your rearview mirror and you’ve seen some of what the city has to offer. Now it’s time for adventure and exploration off the beaten track. Marseille is one of France’s oldest and most popular tourist destinations, not least because of its rich historical and natural heritage.

Many people are under the impression that the South of France is unaffordable, but that’s not true if you follow specific tips on how to see this glorious region on a budget. Being a port city, you can expect delicious, fresh seafood straight from the ocean that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, especially if you go in the shoulder seasons. With all the ups and downs (literally) of the city, it’s hard to find a place without a view.  For solo travelers and nomads, there are plenty of hostels and less expensive accommodation options to network and socialize.

It’s not uncommon to meet someone along the way and travel with them for a leg of the journey, sharing experiences, the memory of which can last a lifetime. You can go with the flow or create an itinerary to give you an outline.

Amen to Amiens

Perhaps you haven’t heard about this place at all, which isn’t a negative thing at all if you’re one of those travelers who loves to spend time off the beaten track. Amiens is an absolute must-see and far removed from the touristy places one envisions when thinking of France.

This captivating city is part of the Haut-de-France region in northern France, divided by the River Somme. And if it’s coffee and incredible food you’re after, then the shops and cafes lining the Quartier St.-Leu’s narrow streets are calling your name. Another highlight are the unique floating market gardens that dot the city’s canals, and it wouldn’t be Amiens without the fascinating Amiens Cathedral full of French history and culture, as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You could honestly spend days just sitting around, sipping coffee and eating croissants, watching the people walk by and pondering life and what it means. This is a city made for those who love the slower part of life and can enjoy simplicity and complexity at the same time, for example at Les Hortillonnages d’Amiens, which is a network of canals and floating gardens right in the heart of Amiens.

This natural site is so special and is often referred to as the “Little Venice of the North” thanks to its labyrinth of waterways and lush vegetation. Most definitely worth a visit.

Closing Remarks

Traveling isn’t only about ticking items and places off your bucket list, it’s about exploring and learning, about opening your mind and heart to new things, different cultures and ways of living. Taking a road, be it alone or with others, that leads you into the unknown can’t be compared to anything else in the world, and France is the ideal place to take a journey like this.

Paris is exceptional and a few days to start of your trip won’t ever be a waste, but don’t be shy of venturing into the lesser-known parts of France: adventure awaits you around every corner. There’s are two beautiful sayings that apply to travel, namely “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” and “Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” Think of those two and keep them in mind when you’re planning your next trip.