Southwestern France is a gateway to world-famous wine regions, stunning beaches, rich gastronomy, and historic villages. Within a few hours by car or train, you can explore scenic coastal towns, picturesque countryside, or cultural hubs—perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
With so many incredible places to discover, narrowing it down to 20 was no easy task. This guide highlights my personal favorites—charming villages, historic cities, seaside escapes, and gourmet destinations—offering a taste of the best that Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie have to offer.
The Best Places to Visit in Southwestern France – Nouvelle-Aquitaine
1. Bordeaux
Location: Gironde Department, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: France’s 9th-largest city with 260,000 residents
Bordeaux is not just a city—it’s an experience. I live here, so of course I’ve got to include it, but that doesn’t take away from how incredible it is. There’s a reason it’s one of the most-visited cities in the country! Known for its stunning 18th-century architecture, world-class wine, and lively food scene, it’s often called the “Pearl of Aquitaine.” Whether you’re here for history, gastronomy, or just to vibe with the locals, Bordeaux never disappoints.
Check out my full guide on the 50 Best Things to Do in Bordeaux and my Bordeaux audio guide.
What Not to Miss:
- The Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, in front of Place de la Bourse
- The old city, with its medieval gates (the stunning Porte Cailhau or Grosse Cloche) and charming squares
- The Chartrons district, famous for antique shops and wine bars
- Marché des Capucins, the best market in the city
- Darwin Ecosystem, a hipster haven with street art, cafés, and coworking spaces
Best Events: Bordeaux Wine Festival (June), Open Doors in Saint-Émilion (May), Bordeaux Art Festival (October)
Where to Stay:
Villas Foch Boutique Hotel & Spa Bordeaux for a fancy experience and Mama Shelter for a young, funky vibe. Check out my article on where to stay in Bordeaux.
2. Bayonne
Location: Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Basque Country
Size: A mid-sized city of around 50,000 residents
Bayonne, the capital of the French Basque Country, is an architectural gem with colorful Basque houses, winding streets, and an outstanding food culture. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in the area, surrounded by the ocean and the Pyrenees mountain range, but it’s also a foodie destination of note. If you like chocolate (who doesn’t?!) and delicious, aged cured ham – jambon de Bayonne – you can’t miss this great city. As you can probably guess, my to-do list is going to include lots of foodie adventures!
Check out this article on the best things to do and see in Bayonne.
What Not to Miss:
- Try Bayonne ham (Jambon de Bayonne), a local delicacy
- Taste Bayonne chocolate, one of the best in France
- Visit Bayonne Cathedral and its stunning cloister
- Explore the charming Petit Bayonne neighborhood
Best Events: Foire au Jambon (April), Carnaval de Bayonne (February), Fêtes de Bayonne (July)
Where to Stay:
Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées and Hôtel Villa KOEGUI, among others. Check out my article on where to stay in Bayonne.
3. Saint-Émilion
Location: Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A small, walkable picturesque village
No trip to Bordeaux is complete without visiting Saint-Émilion, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. Beyond its wines, it’s also a medieval wonderland with stunning architecture and history. It’s no wonder it attracts more than a million tourists every year. Every square in the small village center is packed with history and some incredible architecture. Thousands of hectares of vines surround the medieval village, making the landscape an unforgettable scenery. Today, the stunning town is listed as a heritage site by UNESCO.
The perfect day trip from Bordeaux, a short drive or train ride, you’ll find plenty to do and see and eat in Saint-Émilion. Check out my personal guide for the Best Wineries to Visit in Saint-Émilion.
What Not to Miss:
- Wine tasting at family-run châteaux
- The monolithic church, carved entirely out of limestone
- The bell tower, offering breathtaking views over the vineyards
Where to Stay:
Château Franc Mayne if you want to stay in a vineyard and Logis de la Cadene for a luxurious stay in the village itself. Check out my article on where to stay in Saint Emilion for more options..
4. Cap Ferret
Location: Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A laid-back beach town made up of several tiny villages along the Atlantic coast
A paradise for seafood lovers and nature enthusiasts, Cap Ferret is known for its oyster farms, wild beaches, and pine forests. Cap Ferret is a famous summer getaway for the French upper class, yet despite its growing popularity, it’s managed to keep its raw atmosphere of simplicity and tranquility. This unique blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and tranquility makes it a dreamy vacation destination.
Check out my personal recommendations on what to do in Cap Ferret and the Best Beaches in Cap Ferret.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit the charming fishing village of L’Herbe
- Eat fresh oysters by the water
- Rent a bike and explore the coastal trails
- Take a boat trip to Arcachon and visit the Dune du Pilat
Best Events: Fête de la Presqu’île (August) – A festival celebrating the beauty of Cap Ferret.
Where to Stay:
La Maison du Bassin and Hôtel Côté Sable are two of my favorites. Check out my article on where to stay in Cap Ferret for more options.
5. Sarlat-la-Canéda
Location: Dordogne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A small medieval town
Located in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, Sarlat is one of France’s most beautiful medieval towns, famous for its cobbled streets and delicious food. Strolling around the medieval town center will transport you back in time to when knights on horseback roamed the streets. Sarlat’s preserved historic center and mostly car-free streets make it one of the more pleasant places to visit in Dordogne, and a bonus is that it’s just as stunning and lively in winter as it is in summer.
Here are my full guides on what to Do in Sarlat and day trips from Sarlat.
What Not to Miss:
- Wander through the Sarlat market (Wednesdays & Saturdays)
- Discover the jaw-droppingly beautiful nearby villages, including Beynac-et-Cazenac and Domme
- Visit Marqueyssac Gardens, with breathtaking views over the valley
Best Events: Sarlat Theatre Festival (August), Gourmet Festival (September), Truffle Festival (January)
Where to Stay:
Les Cordeliers and Noreli B&B are two of my favorites. Check out my article on where to stay in Dorodgne for more options in the region.
6. Hossegor
Location: Landes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A small, cool surf town on the Atlantic coast
A surfer’s paradise, Hossegor is home to some of the best waves in Europe and is a world-renowned surfing destination. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, the waves here cater to all levels. Beyond the beach, the town has a laid-back, beachy atmosphere with plenty of surf shops, cafés, and bars. Don’t miss the lively markets and sunset views along the coast. The hot summers and consistent waves make this region an ideal destination.
What Not to Miss:
- Surfing lessons
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on Lac d’Hossegor
- Explore the local surf shops and markets
- Take a bike ride to nearby towns like Seignosse
Where to Stay:
Hôtel de La Plage (a nice simple hotel on the ocean beach) And Hôtel Les Hortensias du Lac if you want to be closer to the lake.
7. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Location: Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Basque Country
Size: A small village near the Spanish border
This picturesque Basque village located almost on the border with Spain and in the foothills of the magnificent Pyrenean mountain range, this tiny village is famous as the last stop in France on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. With its cobbled streets, red-shuttered houses, and dramatic mountain backdrop, it’s a place full of history and charm. No wonder it’s considered one of the most beautiful villages in all of France.
What Not to Miss:
- Walk through the Porte St. Jacques, a UNESCO-listed gate
- Climb to the Citadel for breathtaking views
- Explore the riverside quarter, filled with cute shops and cafés
- Fête de la Basse-Navarre (August) – Traditional Basque music, dance, and food
Where to Stay:
Les Chemins d’Elika is a beautiful property, and Hôtel des Pyrénées is a comfy hotel, both in the center of town, close to all the restaurants and attractions.
8. Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Location: Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Basque Country
Size: A seaside town of approximately 15,000 residents
Just minutes from Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a beautiful fishing town with a relaxed atmosphere and a rich maritime history. It’s one of the most charming destinations in the Basque country. The seaside town is located on a vast bay and boasts five beaches, so make sure to bring your swimsuit. This little town is renowned for its unique Basque architecture, where lively streets showcase the charm of the old town with vibrant half-timbered houses.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist, where Louis XIV was married
- Relax at Grande Plage, the town’s main beach
- Try the famous Basque pastries at Maison Adam
- Fête de la Saint-Jean (June) – Traditional Basque festival
Where to Stay: Hôtel de la Plage and Thalazur Hôtel & Spa are both great hotels with amazing locations.
9. La Rochelle
Location: Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A medium-sized port city of about 75,000 residents
A city of maritime charm, La Rochelle is famous for its old port, medieval towers, and nearby islands. It’s the perfect mix of history and seaside relaxation. Wander through its charming streets lined with half-timbered houses and enjoy the lively outdoor cafés. The city also boasts a stunning aquarium and the nearby Île de Ré, perfect for day trips. Be sure to try fresh seafood, especially oysters, and mussels, in this vibrant port town.
What Not to Miss:
- Stroll around the Vieux Port (Old Port)
- Visit the three historic towers guarding the harbor
- Explore the La Rochelle Market, one of the best in Southwest France
- Take a boat trip to Île d’Aix
- If you’re traveling with children, the aquarium is a must-see
Where to Stay: Hôtel Le Yachtman and Maison des Ambassadeurs are two of my favorite places to stay in La Rochelle.
10. Île de Ré
Location: Off the coast of La Rochelle, Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A small island known for its scenic villages and beaches
Île de Ré is one of the most charming islands in France, famous for its salt marshes, whitewashed villages, and stunning coastline. It’s a paradise for cycling lovers, as the entire island is covered with dedicated bike paths.
Check out my article about the most beautiful villages in Île de Ré and my guide to a day trip to Île de Ré.
What Not to Miss:
- Cycle through the picturesque villages of Ars-en-Ré and La Flotte
- Visit Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a UNESCO-listed port town
- Discover the island’s salt production heritage
- Relax at Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, one of the best beaches
Where to Stay: HR Hôtel-Restaurant & Spa Marin if you want to stay in the lovely village of La Flotte and La Martinoise Garden for those who want to stay in the busy center of Saint Martin de Re.
11. Île d’Oléron
Location: Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: France’s second-largest island
Often called the “wild sister” of Île de Ré, Île d’Oléron is a more laid-back and budget-friendly island escape while still being a stunning beach vacation for families and couples alike. Known for its oyster farms, sandy beaches, and scenic bike paths, it’s a haven for nature lovers and seafood enthusiasts.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit Le Château-d’Oléron, a charming fortified town
- Eat fresh Marennes-Oléron oysters
- Explore Plage de la Conche, one of the island’s best beaches
- Cycle the island’s 100+ km of bike paths
Where to Stay: Hôtel Île de Lumière and La Maison Bleue are both great accommodation options in Ile d’Orelon.
12. Cognac
Location: Charente Department, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A small, elegant town with around 18,000 residents
Famous for producing the world-renowned Cognac brandy, this town is a must-visit for spirits enthusiasts. Cognac isn’t just about the drink—it’s about history, culture, and picturesque river views. This little town will surprise you with its impressive architecture, delicious restaurants, and remarkably nice people.
Here’s an article on the 10 best things to do in Cognac and my personal list of the Best Cognac Distilleries to Visit.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit Cognac distilleries, such as Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Martell
- Stroll through the charming old town, filled with Renaissance buildings
- Explore Château de Cognac, the birthplace of King François I
Best Events: Fête du Cognac (July) – A lively festival celebrating Cognac and local food
Where to Stay: Logis des Tourelles and Logis des Tourelles, among others. Check out my article on where to stay in Cognac.
The Best Places to Visit in Southwest France – Occitanie
13. Toulouse
Location: Haute-Garonne, Occitanie
Size: A major city – one of the 5 largest in France – with a population of over 500,000
Nicknamed “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) for its terracotta-colored buildings, Toulouse is a vibrant city that blends history, aerospace innovation, and a rich food culture. It exudes energy, making it one of the liveliest destinations in southwest France. Perfectly located between beaches, mountains, and the magical Dordogne Valley, it’s a great place to stay for an extended trip. If you’re enthusiastic about architecture, colorful markets, French food, and chic boutiques, a trip to Toulouse is a must for you!
Check out my article about a weekend in Toulouse.
What Not to Miss:
- Wander through the Place du Capitole
- Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO site
- Explore the Cité de l’Espace, a must-see for space lovers
- Try Cassoulet, the city’s most famous dish
Best Events: Toulouse Violet Festival (February), Rio Loco Music Festival (June), Piano aux Jacobins Festival (September).
Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel SOCLO for a pleasant stay in the city center and OVYO Hôtel if you want to hang around Toulousians. Check out my article on where to stay in Toulouse for more options.
14. Albi
Location: Tarn, Occitanie
Size: A small, walkable city
A hidden gem that will take your breath away, Albi is known for its red-brick architecture and incredible cathedral – the largest of its kind in the entire world. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Albi offers visitors a beautiful blend of history, art, and gastronomy. As the birthplace of world-renowned painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, the city is also home to a museum dedicated to his works, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, one of the most impressive in France
- Explore the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum
- Walk along the Tarn River for stunning views
Where to Stay:
Chambres d’hôtes La Tour Sainte-Cécile and Hôtel Alchimy are both amazing. Check out my article on where to stay in Albi for more options.
15. Pézenas
Location: Hérault, Occitanie
Size: A small town near Montpellier
Pézenas is a charming town full of art galleries, antique shops, and stunning architecture. It’s also famous for its connection to Molière, France’s most famous playwright. Its beautifully preserved historic center, with elegant mansions and cobbled streets, offers a glimpse into its rich past as a royal and cultural hub.
What Not to Miss:
- Explore the old town, filled with 17th-century mansions
- Browse the antique markets
- Taste Pézenas petits pâtés, a unique local pastry
Where to Stay: Les Suites de Peyrat is perfectly located to explore Pezenas.
16. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
Location: Lot, Occitanie
Size: A tiny medieval village
Voted one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a fairytale destination perched on a cliff above the Lot River. With its medieval stone houses, winding alleys, and breathtaking views, it has inspired countless artists, including writer André Breton. This is truly one of the most stunning villages you’ll get to visit in France.
What Not to Miss:
- Wander through cobblestone streets and artisan shops
- Enjoy panoramic views from the old castle ruins
- Try local foie gras and duck confit
Where to Stay: Maison Lapopie in the town center and La maison de Ganil if you want to explore the region.
17. Collonges-la-Rouge
Location: Corrèze, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Size: A tiny village
With its deep red sandstone houses, Collonges-la-Rouge looks like something straight out of a storybook. It’s one of the most unique villages in France. Filled with red-turreted buildings, charming lanes, and ancient architecture, it’s a stunning day trip from the Dordogne Valley.
What Not to Miss:
- Explore the charming medieval streets
- Visit the Saint-Pierre Church
- Enjoy a local walnut cake
Where to Stay: Definitely Château de Vassinhac, it’s absolutely stunning!
18. Carcassonne
Location: Aude, Occitanie
Size: A tiny historic citadel linked to a medium-sized town
One of the most famous medieval cities in France, Carcassonne looks like it was plucked straight from a medieval fairy tale. A magical hilltop city in the southwest of France, it’s a place where history, legend, and fantastical architecture blend seamlessly. Famous for its medieval citadel, known as La Cité de Carcassonne, the cobbled streets, towering ramparts, and breathtaking views transport you back in time from your first steps into the city.
Check out my detailed guide to a visit in Carcassone.
What Not to Miss:
- Walk through La Cité, the UNESCO-listed fortified old town
- Visit the Château Comtal
- Take a boat ride on the Canal du Midi
Where to Stay: Face Cité – Chambres D’Hôtes and Hôtel de la Cité & Spa MGallery (for a luxury stay within the walls of the citadel).
19. Rocamadour
Location: Lot, Occitanie
Size: A small hilltop village
A medieval pilgrimage site, Rocamadour is one of the most spectacular villages in France. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is very busy! There’s one main street in the village, and it’s extremely touristy with plenty of restaurants and shops of local gastronomy and souvenirs. But in my opinion, it’s so moving and mesmerizing that you can still enjoy it even when it’s very crowded.
What Not to Miss:
- Visit the Sanctuary of Rocamadour
- Try the famous Rocamadour cheese
- Explore the medieval streets and viewpoints
Where to Stay: Hôtel Les Esclargies is a beautiful modern place close to the city center.
20. Sète
Location: Hérault, Occitanie
Size: A medium-sized port town
Sète is known for its seafood, canals, and arts scene. It’s often called the “Little Venice of the Languedoc”. Built between the Mediterranean and the Étang de Thau, this lively port town is famous for its traditional water jousting tournaments and stunning views from Mont Saint-Clair.
What Not to Miss:
- Try the famous Tielle Sétoise (seafood pie)
- Visit the Mont Saint-Clair for panoramic views
- Take a boat ride
Where to Stay: B&B Le Logis Du Mas is a great place with a pool.
We have come to the end of our list of the best places to visit in Southwest France. As I said, there are plenty more amazing destination to discover in this region but these are some of my favorites. If you want to save this list for later, feel free to pin it!
*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂
You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:
