If you’re looking for a beautiful, peaceful getaway in France, look no further than the charming towns and cities of eastern France. From quaint medieval villages to vibrant, bustling cities, you’ll fall in love with the East of France. Let’s explore some of the most charming towns in eastern France worth visiting.
Eastern France road trip
Driving in eastern France is a great way to explore the charming towns and cities in this part of the world. Picturesque highways and roads meander through rolling hills, allowing you to take in the scenery as you travel from town to town.
Most travelers start this journey in Paris; our first town is only 2 hours away. Roads are generally well maintained, so driving is easy to navigate. Plus, there’s ample parking in most places, so you don’t have to worry about too many details. Having a car makes it easy to hop out and explore a particular area or stop for lunch. However, train travel is also possible but less convenient.
helpful driving tips
Driving in eastern France can be a great way to explore some charming towns and cities that you would otherwise miss. However, it’s important to keep some helpful tips in mind when driving here. For American drivers, it’s an easy place to get around as it’s also on the right side of the road. You must have a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years old to drive in France.
There are speed cameras and radar on most motorways and roads in France. So be aware that if you think you have avoided being pulled over, they may bill you for the plate. However, by obeying French driving laws, you’ll find it an enjoyable way to get around eastern France.
Lance
Reims is about two hours from Paris by car. It’s known for its history, stunning architecture, and of course, Champagne!
Reims city center is filled with historic buildings, charming streets and plenty of cafés and restaurants to explore. You can also see the Tao Palace or La Pompelle Fort from the First World War.
For those who love history, Reims’ two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are worth a detour, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims and the Basilica of St. Remy. The cathedral was built in 1275 and is known for its detailed Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. This is where the kings of France were once crowned. The Basilica of St. Remy itself is equally unique, dating back to the 11th century and featuring stunning Romanesque architecture.
Reims is known as the capital of Champagne, so it is fitting to visit some of the famous Champagne houses such as Taittinger, Pomery and Veuve Clicquot. Many of these houses offer tours and tastings. Plus, you can visit some of the smaller family-owned vineyards and learn how champagne is made.
Epernay
In the Champagne region, Épernay is another stunningly beautiful town in the Marne department in eastern France. While it shares some similarities with Reims, it has unique differences that make it another worthwhile stop on your East of France tour. In addition, Reims and Épernay are within easy reach (29.3 km) for day trips.
Epernay is known for its world-renowned Champagne vineyards such as Moet & Chandon, Pol Roger and Perrier-Jouët. The Champagne Avenue is one of the most prestigious and expensive avenues in the world. Approximately 1 km long, you can wander between the luxury champagne houses and enjoy as many tours or tastings as you want in one day. Some champagne houses even offer elegant accommodations on-site; you don’t have to cross the avenue.
The Epernay also has a delicious restaurant serving traditional French cuisine, perfectly paired with local wines and champagnes. For a gourmet experience, you’ll want to check out the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Royal just outside the city. With so much to offer travelers, it’s no wonder tourists flock to Épernay every year.
Lakeville
The small village of Riqueville is a must-see destination for travelers exploring the east of France. Located on the Alsace Wine Route, this picturesque village dates back to the Middle Ages, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. With its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses and colorful flower beds, Riquewihr looks like something out of a fairytale surrounded by vineyards.
Visitors can enjoy delicious local German cuisine, or browse unique shops selling traditional items such as pottery and wooden toys. While in Riquewihr, take time out to sample wine from local vineyards such as Hugel et Fils, which have been around for centuries. You’ll find some of the best white wines in France, especially Riesling.
Colmar
Colmar is a charming town in the Great East (formerly Alsace), an area on the French-German border, just 14.3 kilometers south of Riqewihr. Over the course of history, it was part of Germany and France, and you can see the influence of the local cuisine and architecture.
Colmar offers more to do than the hamlet of Riqewihr, and has a similar old-world charm. Many colorful buildings dating back to the 9th century will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time. There’s plenty to do in Colmar, from wine tasting to exploring the Lower Linden Museum , which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece .
Colmar’s old town is a must-see on a walk along the avenue. This picturesque walk is filled with rainbow-coloured businesses and homes along the canal. One of the best times to visit is during Christmas time, when you’ll see balconies and shops decorated like movie sets!
Strasbourg
Located near Colmar, Strasbourg is one of the most beautiful cities in France. It’s often chosen as a base because it’s the capital of the Great Eastern region, with more museums, shops, restaurants and peaceful parks for a day of fun and relaxation.
It has a vibrant history, with cobbled streets lined with stunning architecture dating back centuries. Some of the more popular things to do include visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica in Strasbourg or marveling at the half-timbered houses of Petite France. This part of town has some picturesque pedestrian bridges that are absolutely incredible!
Plus, there’s plenty to explore during your stay, such as art galleries and museums, as well as shopping areas where you can pick up some souvenirs or unique items for yourself or your friends.
Annecy
If you want to experience something really special during your trip to eastern France, Annecy should be on your list. This pretty lakeside town is known for its breathtaking views of Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest natural bodies of water in Europe. In addition to its stunning landscape, Annecy has plenty of activities to keep visitors busy, such as canoeing, kayaking and swimming in summer. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular in the nearby mountains .
For a more leisurely day, stop at Annecy’s largest park, the Jardins de l’Europe, the perfect daytime spot to enjoy the lake and stroll along its waters. Annecy also has several excellent restaurants serving delicious cuisine, as well as a range of bars and clubs for those looking to experience the nightlife!
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
If you’re looking for the best winter sports towns with stunning views, then Chamonix must be on your list. About a 100 km or 1-hour drive from Annecy, ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.
This stunningly beautiful mountain town is located in the French Alps. Known for its spectacular scenery, stunning views and year-round activities, it’s perfect for the outdoor traveler. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and rock climbing, you’ll love the mountain views from every angle. For the thrill-seekers, you’ll be rewarded with otherworldly views from the descent of Le Brévent on a paragliding tour.
Chamonix also has many shops, restaurants, bars and clubs where you can relax with friends after a day on the slopes. With its breathtaking views of Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, this charming town is definitely worth a visit!
One of the most unique features of Mont Blanc is that it lies on the border of France and Italy, while also straddling the edge of Switzerland. So you can see three countries in one day! While in Chamonix, make time to visit the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice), the largest glacier of ice in the French Alps. You’ll walk through ice tunnels, ride an old red train, and learn about its unique history at a small museum.
Lyon
Sometimes big cities lose the charming character of small towns. However, this is not the case in Lyon. The third-largest city attracts tourists every year and is the culinary capital of France. You’ll want to make time for a delicious meal at Le Poivron Bleu or one of Lyon’s other 91 Michelin-starred restaurants.
In addition to the culinary experience, you’ll appreciate the historical significance of the ancient Roman ruins. There are two Roman theaters in the Odeon and Fourvière districts of Lyon.
epilogue
The East of France offers more than stunning scenery – it is also rich in culture. With easy access from Paris, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do. So whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway to spend time admiring nature, or an exciting city break full of activities, these charming towns have it all!