Best Places in France for Solo Female Travel
1, Paris
Paris, the vibrant capital of France, is situated in the northern-central part of the country. Renowned globally as the 'City of Light', Paris is synonymous with beauty, culture and a distinctive charm. It is a city steeped in history and unparalleled romantic allure, famous for its world-class museums, fashionable boutiques, and gastronomy. Paris is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks including the majestic Eiffel Tower, the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum housing the mysterious Mona Lisa, and the bohemian Montmartre neighborhoods offering panoramic views of the city. A visit to Paris is not complete without a leisurely stroll along the Seine River or a boat tour to capture the city's illuminated skyline at night. From its sophisticated cafe culture to the stunning Versailles Palace and Gardens, Paris captivates visitors with its unique blend of history and modernity.
2, Nice
Located along the sparkling turquoise water of the French Riviera, Nice, France, offers a luxurious retreat into Mediterranean life. Known for its pleasant climate, elegant Belle Époque architecture, and striking seascape, this vibrant city is renowned for several attractions. The iconic Promenade des Anglais stretches along the azure coastline lined with palm trees, providing stunning views and access to the pebbled beaches. The picturesque Old Town (Vieux Nice) features narrow, winding streets filled with dynamic markets, charming boutiques, and traditional bistros. With a thriving art scene, Nice is home to multiple world-class museums, including the Matisse Museum and the Musée Marc-Chagall. Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the exotic greenhouse of Le Parc Phoenix, and the panoramic views from Castle Hill add diversity to Nice's allure. Whether for sun-soaked relaxation or immersive cultural exploration, Nice promises a treasured experience.
3, Toulouse
Toulouse, located in the southwestern part of France, is known as "La Ville Rose" or "The Pink City" due to its unique terracotta brickwork and is the fourth largest city in the country. Drawing a beautiful canvas on the banks of the River Garonne, Toulouse is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant contribution to the aviation and spaceflight industry. This city is home to the Airbus headquarters and the Galileo positioning system, offering a fascinating opportunity for technology enthusiasts to explore the Cité de l'espace (City of Space) park. In addition to this, Toulouse's captivating Old Town captivates visitors with its majestic basilicas, like the Romanesque style Basilique Saint-Sernin, and charming narrow streets bustling with lively markets and traditional culinary delights.
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4, Avignon
Avignon, a city nestled on the banks of the Rhone River in the Provence region of southeastern France, boasts a rich historical and cultural charm. This longtime seat of papal power is best known for its iconic centerpiece, the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a well-preserved Gothic palace from the 14th century which serves as a testament to the city's past. Additionally, Avignon is renowned for its mighty half bridge, known as Pont Saint-Bénézet, which touches the river and sings of classic French folk tales. Surrounded by high medieval walls, this vibrant city is a mecca for art and theatre lovers, hosting one of the world's biggest annual performing-arts festivals, the Festival d'Avignon. Whether traversing its quaint cobbled streets or being charmed by its sophistication and elegance, the magic of Avignon leaves an enchanting impression on every traveler.
5, Strasbourg
Strasbourg, located in the Grand Est region in northeastern France, is enchanting travelers with its unique blend of French and German influences, stunning architecture, and rich history. This picturesque town, nestled on the idyllic banks of the Rhine River, is renowned for its exquisite medieval landmarks such as the soaring Strasbourg Cathedral, which offers an unrivaled view of the city, and the Kammerzell House with its intricate facade. Known as the home of European Parliament, Strasbourg is a cultural and political hub with picturesque canals and quaint half-timbered houses of the Petite France district. The city also boasts renowned gastronomy, most notably the traditional Alsatian cuisine and its world-famous Christmas market that lights up the entire town during the festive season.
6, Val-d'Isere
Val-d'Isere is a charming alpine village nestled in the Tarentaise Valley in the Savoie region of France, close to the Italian border. Known worldwide for its high-quality, extensive ski and snowboarding facilities, Val-d'Isere hosts competitive winter sports events, including the annual World Alpine Ski Championships and several Winter Olympics events. Beyond skiing, the village's vibrant nightlife, luxury accommodations, and fine dining experiences cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. The summer months reveal a plethora of outdoor activities with stunning mountain backdrops, including mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing, hence solidifying its reputation as a prized year-round destination.
7, Rouen
Located in the northwestern region of France, Rouen offers travelers a perfect blend of fascinating history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Known as the capital of Normandy, this city is home to the stunning Rouen Cathedral, frequently depicted in the paintings of the famous Impressionist artist, Claude Monet. Known for its historical significance, Rouen is the city where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, and visitors can explore this history at a dedicated museum. This charming city also boasts vintage half-timbered houses, a vibrant arts scene, lovely gardens, and a notable gastronomic culture, appealing to a variety of tastes and interests.
8, Tours
Tours, a captivating city in the center-west of France, is distinguished by its rich historical heritage and its location in the heart of the renowned Loire Valley. Known as "Le Jardin de la France" (The Garden of France), Tours is renowned for its stunning gardens, lovely old town, "Le Vieux Tours" with well-preserved half-timbered buildings and vibrant squares. Tours is the birthplace of Honore de Balzac, a famous French novelist, and hosts a museum dedicated to him. Besides, it is celebrated as a gateway to the area's prestigious vineyards and majestic chateaux, such as Château de Villandry and Château de Chenonceau, making it a must-visit destination for wine and history enthusiasts alike.
9, Menton
Menton is a charming coastal gem nestled on the French Riviera, right on the Franco-Italian border and a short drive from the glamour of Monaco. Known as 'The Pearl of France', Menton is famed for its delightful old town with pastel-colored houses, lush gardens, and a serene promenade lining the Mediterranean Sea. However, it's probably best known for its annual Lemon Festival, where impressive sculptures made entirely from citrus fruits grace the streets. The town's balmy microclimate makes it an excellent spot for growing lemons, or exploring the Val Rahmeh Garden filled with exotic plants. With its rich history, including the Jean Cocteau Museum in the old fort, and plenty of authentic French and Italian restaurants, Menton is an idyllic retreat for anyone looking for a slice of the Côte d'Azur.
10, Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming commune nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, between the cosmopolitan hustle of Nice and the glamorous Monaco. Known for its tranquility and breathtaking beauty, this picturesque enclave attracts lovers of art and nature with its 16th-century citadel housing several museums, vibrant old town with terracotta-roofed houses, narrow winding streets, and pastel facades contrasted against the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The area's deep natural harbour, historically a significant point for military and commercial ships, now provides a delightful location for a leisurely swim or a trip on a traditional pointu fishing boat. With stunning hilltop views, scenic coastal paths, and exquisite local cuisine, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a serene paradise offering a taste of the idyllic Côte d'Azur lifestyle.
11, Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez, a picturesque gem nestled on the French Riviera in southeastern France, is nothing short of a cosmopolitan paradise sprawling with cultural richness. Known for its lovely Mediterranean beaches, Saint-Tropez is famed for its pulsating nightlife, upscale boutiques, and venerable history reflected in the 17th-century citadel. This celebrity haunt exudes the charm of old-world fishing villages, enticing with its cobblestone streets lined with terracotta-roofed houses, and the vibrant harbor adorned with luxurious yachts. The town is surrounded by wineries and hosts a multitude of international events, including the prestigious Les Voiles de Saint Tropez sailing regatta. A holiday in this idyllic haven is nothing less than a meaningful sojourn into a world where French glamour and rustic elegance harmoniously collide.
12, Montpellier
Montpellier is a dynamic, vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon region in Southern France. Known for its vivacious student population - courtesy of the town's large universities, it encapsulates a youthful spirit while still retaining its rich historical charm. Montpellier is, in fact, steeped in history, renowned for its medieval architecture like the Antigone District, and the famous Place de la Comédie - the town's pulsing hub where an ancient opera house meets contemporary street arts. Additionally, it is recognized for its distinctive Mikvé, a Jewish ceremonial bath dating back to the 13th Century. But cultural appreciation does not stop at the city edges: Montpellier is only a few miles away from the Mediterranean Sea, offering sun-kissed beaches and stunning seaside vistas. Its medley of historic and modern features with a pinch of coastal allure makes Montpellier an unmissable spot in Southern France.
13, La Réunion
La Réunion is a picturesque island nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and approximately 175 kilometers southwest of Mauritius. As a French overseas department, this remote destination boasts a unique fusion of French influence and vibrant Creole culture. Known for its lush, diverse landscapes, La Réunion is home to pristine beaches, verdant forests, towering mountains, including the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise, and striking cirques created from eroded shield volcanoes. La Réunion also prides itself on its Reunionese cuisine, a delightful mix of Creole, Indian, African, and French culinary styles. One can explore the welcoming seaside towns, indulge in various adventurous activities such as hiking, reef diving, surfing, or simply relish the island's endemic flora and fauna in its expansive national park.
14, Nantes
Nantes, located on the Loire River in the western region of France, is a charming city renowned for its rich history and culture. It is popularly known for the iconic Château des ducs de Bretagne - a grand fortress and museum, and the grand gothic-style Nantes Cathedral. The city's distinctive culture is underpinned by numerous art galleries, an active music scene, and the audacious Machines of the Island arts project which includes a grand mechanical elephant. Coupled with its vibrant café culture, inspiring local cuisine, and a love for festivals, Nantes is a city that seamlessly blends the historical with the contemporary, making it a must-visit destination.
15, Lyon
Located in the Rhône-Alpes region of eastern France, Lyon is a vibrant city known for its historic and architectural landmarks. Serving as a gastronomical capital, it boasts thousands of eateries, including the famous 'bouchon lyonnais' restaurants that offer local dishes such as sausages, duck pate, or roasted pork. The city unfolds itself at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers and houses several UNESCO world heritage sites, including the Renaissance district (Vieux Lyon), the Fourvière Roman amphitheatre, and the Presqu'île, a peninsula that contains exceptional examples of 19th-century architecture. With rich Renaissance and Roman history, countless cultural and culinary offerings, Lyon certainly deserves a spot on the travel itinerary of anyone visiting France.
16, Marseille
Marseille is a vibrant and dynamic port city nestled along the southeastern coast of France in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Known as France's oldest city, it boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture that is reflected in its diverse architecture, from the ancient Le Panier neighborhood to the modernist architecture of Le Corbusier's Cité Radieuse. The city is renowned for its maritime heritage, which can be explored at the bustling Vieux-Port, and for Calanques National Park, offering stunning coastal scenery. Equally famous is the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica that provides panoramic views of Marseille. The city also tempts visitors with its distinctive cuisine, particularly the traditional fish stew known as bouillabaisse.
17, Lille
Lille, fondly referred to as the capital of Flanders, is a charming city tucked away in the northern part of France and just a stone's throw away from Belgium. It is a historic metropolis shaped by a diverse cultural tapestry and distinct Flemish influence evident in its innovative architecture and gastronomy. Lille is known for its dynamic arts scene, with the renowned Palais des Beaux-Arts hosting an extensive collection of fine European art. The city's character-filled cobblestone streets, brimming with inviting bistros and richly ornamented buildings like the Old Stock Exchange and the Lille's Opera, give a nod to its past. Lille's lively atmosphere is further amplified by the annual Braderie de Lille, Europe's biggest flea market attracting visitors worldwide.
18, Colmar
Colmar, located in the northeastern region of France in Alsace, is often referred to as a fairy-tale town for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming surroundings. This exquisite city is known for its timber-framed houses adorned with flowering balconies, winding cobblestone lanes, and remarkable Gothic and early Renaissance structures. The acclaimed Unterlinden Museum, home to a vast collection of medieval and early modernist masterpieces, and the Little Venice district, with its picturesque canals and romantic ambiance, are among the most popular attractions. Every corner of the town exudes a blend of German and French cultures, reflecting its historical fluctuations. Colmar also prides itself as the capital of Alsatian wine, offering a great variety of wine tasting opportunities for food and wine enthusiasts.
19, Corsica
Corsica, a rugged French island located in the Mediterranean Sea, is characterized by its distinct blend of culture, imprinted by its historic fusion of French and Italian influences. Often referred to as the “Isle of Beauty,” Corsica is renowned for its diverse landscapes, offering an elegant blend of sweeping, sandy beaches, dense forests trailing up to craggy, snow-tipped peaks and sprawling vineyards. Visitors can explore the port city of Bastia for its imposing citadel, journey to Ajaccio to follow in the footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte, or venture into the hillside town of Sartene, welcoming travelers with its robust gastronomy and traditional polyphonic music. The island also offers thrilling activities like hiking along its famed GR 20 trail, indulging in watersports or touring its collection of archaeological sites. Corsica is, in essence, a place of mystique, adventure, and serene beauty rolled into one.
20, Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel, a small rocky islet in Normandy, France, stands as a mesmerizing architectural wonder attracting millions of tourists each year. Strategically located approximately one kilometer off the country's northwestern coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its impressive medieval architecture, dramatic tides that transform it from an island to a land, introspective ambiance, and labyrinthine streets. The main highlight is the awe-inspiring Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel, a grand, gravity-defying abbey perched on the highest point, known for its delicate spires, stout defensive walls, and delicate flying buttresses. Aside from its architectural and historical merits, Mont Saint-Michel is also recognized for its unique variety of restaurants serving mouth-watering local delicacies like the famous fluffy omelettes.
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Marion
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Hello ladies! 😊 I am French and Canadian. I have both citizenships. But I am not a French Canadian from Quebec 😉 I am on the road, or rather in the air, for a few years now. It has become my lifestyle. I don’t have a home anymore. I am a full time traveller. I am 51 on my documents but I am more a 40 regarding look and energy 😉 Let’s connect! 💞
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Oluwafunke
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Hello, I'm Funke, wanting to travel around Europe, would love some companies or to do some stuffs with other ladies, nice to meet you all. ☺
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Angélique
Lille
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Bonjour, je m'appelle Angélique et j'ai 29 ans. Je viens de terminer mon master d'histoire. J'adore le sport, apprendre de nouvelles langues et la photographie.J'aimerais vivre à Berlin et je vais chercher du travail dans cette ville. Je cherche un endroit où dormir pendant plusieurs jours.
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Hellooo!! I am Saadia, an Art student. Coffee shops discoverer, i love traveling solo, love books, walks, getting to know about other cultures and languages.
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Yaren
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Hey! I am Yaren and I am Turkish. I am an Erasmus+ student here. I am looking forward to knowing new cultures and people.
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Hi! My name is Paulina, im from Poland, i was born in Kraków but now i study genetics in Wrocław, soon going to study in Barcelona for one semester. I love traveling, music, and nature. I
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