Safest Cities in France for Women to Live
1, Annecy
Annecy, often referred to as the "Pearl of the French Alps", is situated in the Haute-Savoie department of southeastern France. This magnificent destination is well-known for its harmonious blend of cultural history and natural beauty. The city is embraced by the stunning Annecy lake, one of Europe's cleanest lakes, perfect for sailing, swimming, and other water activities. Annecy's charming old town, with its winding canals, quaint houses with flower-bedecked balconies, and historic landmarks such as the Palais de l'Isle and Château d'Annecy, is ever-inviting for leisurely strolls. From indulging in the famed Savoyard cuisine, to engaging in outdoor adventures set against the breathtaking backdrop of the snow-covered Mont Blanc, Annecy promises a captivating travel experience.
2, Morzine
Nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil in the French Alps, Morzine is a charming alpine town renowned for its excellent ski and mountain bike trails. Just an hour's drive from Geneva, this amiable resort town unequivocally spotlights not only the spectacular beauty of France's mountainous region but also its rich culture and significant traditions. Known for its lively winter and summer seasons, Morzine impresses tourists with its vast terrains filled with a wide range of skiing and snowboarding hills suitable for both beginners and experienced athletes. In summer, the mountain landscape transforms into paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts seeking thrilling adventures. Moreover, the town's heart, with its wooden chalets and slate roofs, offers an array of unique local dining and shopping experiences, reflecting the authentic Savoyard way of life.
3, Aix-en-Provence
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque southeastern region of France, Aix-en-Provence, often referred to as Aix, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its delightful tree-lined boulevards, preserved 17th-century architecture, and historic fountains that contribute to its distinctive Provençal allure. Home to artist Paul Cezanne, the city offers tourists an enchanting exploration of numerous art studios, galleries, and the dedicated Cezanne's studio. Known for its local cuisine, the lively food markets of Aix-en-Provence offer mouth-watering Provençal specialties. Additionally, the sun-drenched city is a gateway to the prestigious vineyards of the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence wine region.
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4, La Rochelle
La Rochelle, a beautifully charming and historic port city on France's Atlantic Ocean coast, is well-known for its picturesque old harbour, fascinating medieval structures, vibrant maritime heritage, and enchanting sunsets. Nestled in the southwestern part of France within the Charente-Maritime department, it draws history enthusiasts with its towers flanking the old port: the Saint-Nicolas Tower, the Chain Tower, and the Lantern Tower, which collectively represent the city's rich past. This luminous city is also revered for its impressive Aquarium; one of Europe's largest that homeshomes a myriad of marine creatures. La Rochelle's specialities, including its fresh seafood gastronomy and the globally acclaimed La Rochelle Film Festival, beautifully culminates the delightful travel experiences this French city has to offer.
5, Angers
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley in western France, Angers is a splendid destination that offers a uniquely enchanting travel experience. Known as the “most beautiful city of France,” it draws visitors from around the globe with its rich layers of history, vibrantly eclectic architectural styles, and serene landscapes. The city is renowned for its Angers Castle, home to the world-famous Apocalypse Tapestry, which is the largest medieval tapestry in the world. Moreover, it also boasts Europe's first horticultural parks, the lush Jardin des Plantes d'Angers, museums like Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers showcasing grand and ancient art collections, and thriving vineyards creating Anjou wines. The city blends traditional charm and modern vibrancy, promising an engaging sensory journey for every traveler.
6, Antony
Nestled in the southern suburbs of Paris, Antony is a charming commune in the Hauts-de-Seine department, renowned for its picturesque settings and vibrant cultural life. Just a short train ride from the heart of Paris, Antony offers a delightful escape with its lush green parks and gardens, such as Parc de Sceaux, a majestic park designed by André Le Nôtre, featuring sprawling lawns, elegant fountains, and the stately Château de Sceaux. Visitors can indulge in the local culinary scene in quaint cafes and restaurants that line the streets or explore the bustling and colorful weekend markets. Known for its rich historical heritage, Antony is home to beautiful churches like Saint-Saturnin Church, boasting exquisite architecture that reflects its medieval origins. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day in nature or a cultural experience with proximity to the metropolis, Antony offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and vivacity.
7, 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.
8, Perigueux
Perigueux, a charming city gem located in the Aquitaine region of southwestern France, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Famous for its beautifully preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, the city is dominated by the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Front, a Byzantine style cathedral featuring five domes and turrets. Moreover, the town’s renowned Gallo-Roman Vesunna museum showcases ancient ruins, relics, and a wealth of fascinating exhibits from Roman Gaul. Not to miss is Perigueux's culinary significance, being situated in the Dordogne department, known as France's top gastronomic region, it offers mouthwatering local specialities like truffles, walnuts, and world-renowned foie gras. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or an architecture admirer, Perigueux is an enchanting French destination that offers something for every traveller.
9, Douarnenez
Nestled on the picturesque coast of Finistère, in the northwestern region of Brittany, France, Douarnenez is a charming destination sure to enchant any traveler. Its fame largely owes to its vibrant maritime heritage, steeped in the tales of fishing, boat-building, and seafaring. Douarnenez invites visitors to explore the Port-Musée, a unique floating museum of boats, or lose themselves in the narrow winding streets of its medieval quarters. The town is equally celebrated for its culinary finesse, especially the delicious sardines and the famous Kouign-amann cake. Don’t miss the captivating beauty of the legendary Tréboul marina and the mysterious Tristan Island, which make Douarnenez a hidden gem of Brittany.
10, 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.
11, Bordeaux
Bordeaux, situated in the Southwestern region of France along the scenic Garonne River, is a vibrant city known worldwide as the heartland of fine wine production. It's a remarkable blend of traditional charm and urban chic, boasting enchanting cobblestone streets, grand neoclassical monuments, and a revitalized waterfront. Bordeaux is renowned not just for its eponymous wine but also for its plethora of historical sites, including the majestic Place de la Bourse, the gothic Bordeaux Cathedral, and its historic city center, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Add to this the multitude of world-class museums, diverse gastronomic scene, and quaint vineyards embellishing the countryside, and you find Bordeaux to be an irresistible destination for travel enthusiasts.
12, 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.
13, Millau
Millau is a quaint town nestled in Southern France, renowned for its unrivaled blend of natural beauty and architectural wonders. Located in the Midi-Pyrénées region overlooked by the majestic Cévennes mountains, Millau serves as a gateway to the Tarn Gorges, one of France’s stunning natural sights. Perhaps the most recognized emblem of Millau is the Millau Viaduct, the world's highest cable-stayed bridge that provides a breathtaking panorama of the town and its surroundings. Beyond its structural attractions, Millau is also famous for its long-standing tradition of glove-making, housing several artisanal workshops open for visitors. Whether you're seeking a scenic nature escape, an architectural spectacle, or an immersive cultural experience, Millau brims with captivating treasures waiting to be discovered.
14, 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.
15, Rennes
Rennes, the dynamic capital of Brittany region in Northwestern France, is a captivating cultural hub known for its rich historical narratives and vibrant art scene. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, Rennes is adorned with half-timbered medieval houses, grand neoclassical architecture such as Palais Saint-Georges and stunning Gothic structures like Cathedrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes. It houses two universities, propelling its reputation as a city of education and the arts, with numerous museums like the Musée des Beaux-Arts offering an insight into its heritage. The city also hosts the "Les Transmusicales de Rennes," a famous music festival, and boasts lush green spaces, making it a hidden gem of the essence of French life.
16, Chamonix
Chamonix, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, offers an unparalleled natural beauty that attracts countless visitors all year round. Strikingly located near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy, it boasts breathtaking views of the famous Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. Chamonix is renowned as a winter sports paradise, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding on its vast, snow-covered slopes. In summer, it transforms into a haven for hikers and mountain climbers looking to challenge the imposing peaks. The town itself brims with charm, featuring a range of delightful eateries, stylish boutiques and a vibrant nightlife, making Chamonix a perfect getaway for those in search of thrilling outdoor activities intertwined with unique local culture and cuisine.
17, Honfleur
Honfleur is a quaint, picturesque port town located in the charming Normandy region of northern France that's celebrated for its rich history and unique maritime heritage. Famous for its well-preserved 16th- to 18th-century buildings, the town boasts narrow, winding streets and a harbor filled with sailing boats that's been an endless source of inspiration for artists like Monet and Boudin. Honfleur is home to the Saint Catherine’s Church, France's largest wooden church, showcasing the town's long-standing ship-building history. Food lovers will delight at the local cuisine, particularly the seafood, and everyone can stroll along the Vieux Bassin or old dock for spectacular views and a serene, timeless atmosphere.
18, Briancon
Briancon, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is Europe's highest town, best known for its fresh alpine air, mountainous landscape, and rich history. Situated near the Italian border, this picturesque town is part of the Serre Chevalier Valley ski resort, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Its impressive fortified old town, designed by Louis XIV's military architect Vauban, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting structures such as the Fort des Têtes and the Fort du Randouillet. Meanwhile, its quaint streets are lined with colorful houses, charming boutiques, and delightful local eateries. Briancon, with its perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm, promises an unrivaled travel experience.
19, Quimper
Quimper, situated in the Finistère department of Brittany in northwestern France, embraces the French idyll with its romantic blend of art, history, and culture. Known for its breathtaking Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Corentin, which extends majestically towards the sky, the city boasts distinctive half-timbered houses, and charming footbridges that cross over the rivers that divide it. Renowned for its faïence pottery, Quimper has been producing the richly painted blue and white designs since the 17th century, that now draw collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe. Rich in Breton tradition, Quimper's cobblestone streets come alive during the summer Festival de Cornouaille, where one can witness impressive displays of traditional music, dance, and costume. Whether you’re exploring the Musée des Beaux-Arts, strolling through the vibrant markets, or savoring authentic crepes, Quimper offers a quintessential slice of French charm and elegance.
20, Vannes
Vannes, a mesmerizing destination located on the north-west coast of France in the region of Brittany, is a city steeped in an intriguing blend of history and coastal charm. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the town's cobblestone streets are lined with quaint half-timbered houses that tell stories of times gone by. Walk through its picturesque old town and witness the impressive Vannes Cathedral and the marvellous Château de l'Hermine. The city is equally renowned for its vibrant marina and the Gulf of Morbihan, known for its beautiful islands and rich birdlife. Whether you're a history aficionado, nature enthusiast, or culinary explorer, Vannes offers a distinctive French experience waiting to be discovered.
Frequently asked questions
What are the safest places in France for women?
