Summary
The northern region of France boasts thousands of years of rich history, magnificent castles, and a plethora of delectable cuisine to indulge in. As such, visitors will find themselves with myriad choices regarding the finest destinations in northern France, particularly when exploring the area.
The northern region of France is conveniently reachable from England, making it an excellent destination for both day trips and long weekend excursions by car.
Travelers can efficiently embark on their journey by ferry from Portsmouth, Poole, or Plymouth, all located in England, crossing the English Channel to access some of the most remarkable locations in northern France. Here, you will find around five starting points to launch your adventure.
With this in mind, I would like to highlight some of the premier destinations in northern France that guarantee an extraordinary trip.
Explore the following top-tier destinations in northern France:
1.) Le Havre
Le Havre is more than merely a port city; it offers many attractions and activities. Ensure your itinerary includes a visit to the Museum of Modern Art, the magnificent Le Havre Cathedral, and the stunning Les Jardins Suspendus.
Pack your walking shoes and stroll along the nearby Côte d’Albâtre coastline, renowned for its beauty and ranked among the finest regions in northern France.
Although it can be somewhat breezy due to the sea currents, do not underestimate the intensity of the sun! Ensure you bring adequate sunblock to avoid any unwanted sunburn.
Furthermore, consider a short car journey to Honfleur. The harbor area presents breathtaking scenery and is certainly worth the visit.
2.) Caen
Caen is among Normandy’s most picturesque cities, ideal for delving into the region’s historical roots.
必須停下来，在Château de Caen参观，这座城堡是威廉征服者几乎一千年前建造的。
For a delightful culinary experience, dine at A Contre Sens, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its inventive and delectable dishes.
This establishment undoubtedly ranks among the finest dining locations in northern France, guaranteeing a satisfying meal.
3.) Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel stands as one of the most iconic communes in northern France.
Situated on its isolated island, it is easily accessible from the mainland during low tide.
Allocate an afternoon to uncover the splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history dating back to the 6th century. It is truly a quintessential destination to experience in northern France.
Be mindful that weekends and public holidays attract large crowds. If possible, aim to visit earlier in the morning or on weekdays.
While it may not completely eliminate the crowds, the experience will be much more pleasant.
4.) Brest
Brest is a relatively large city located on the northwestern edge of France.
Ensure to visit Tour Tanguy and savor local seafood delicacies at Le Crabe-Marteau after a day of exploring the cobbled streets and quaint shops.
If you seek respite from urban life, venture to the Nature Park of d’Armorique to experience its breathtaking natural beauty.
5.) Carnac
Carnac is a charming commune located on the northwestern coast of France. Among its most renowned attractions are the Carnac Stones, believed to date back over 6,000 years!
If you wish to enjoy the sea, there are five local beaches in the commune that provide ideal spots for relaxation on a warm summer day.
6.) Paimpont
Situated away from the coastal winds, Paimpont offers a breathtaking landscape for those looking to delve deeper into the area’s history.
Make sure to visit the Abbey and explore the ancient forest of Paimpont, which was once part of Brittany’s expansive woodlands. It offers a picturesque experience and is among the premier destinations to understand the region’s heritage.
Wander through the nature trails within the forest, especially magnificent in both winter and summer. Be sure to wear quality hiking footwear, as the ground may become muddy due to moisture, making wet feet a discomfort to deal with.
7.) Combourg Castle
Château de Combourg is one of the most enchanting castles in the region, positioned alongside Lake Tranquil, making it the perfect site to admire the area’s stunning fortifications.
This picturesque area is ideal for exploration, particularly on a sunny day. If you have an affinity for French castles, we encourage you to peruse our comprehensive guide detailing which ones to visit, accessible here.
8.) Vannes
Vannes is a significant town steeped in over 2,000 years of history.
Explore this fortified town to appreciate the impressive timber-framed houses within the old town, along with its attractive city walls.
Be sure to savor a meal at La Tete En L’air, where both the culinary offerings and the ambiance hold great appeal, making it one of the best spots in northern France.
You will surely enjoy your dining experience.
9.) Belle Island
Located roughly 10 miles from the French mainland, Belle Island feels remote yet is very accessible. It is undoubtedly one of the finest locations in northern France for those wanting an escape from the mainland.
Make sure to visit some of its delightful towns, wander along the rugged coastline, particularly Côte Sauvage, and savor the fresh fish delicacies available at the numerous restaurants lining the harbor.
10.) Rest of France
In many respects, the northern region of France serves as a gateway to exploring a wider array of the country. Ensure that you plan your itinerary, making strategic stops at locations such as Nimes and the breathtaking Bordeaux.
France is undeniably a remarkable country to discover.
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Passionate about travel and culinary adventure, particularly anything enveloped in sugar.
