3 Destinations in France To Add to Your 2025 Travel List

Paris is likely the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of visiting France. Rightly so, as the popular city receives more than 50 million visitors each year.

If you’ve been there and done that, more than once, you’ll enjoy the 3 alternative destinations we’ll cover in our article today. Nantes, Mont St. Michel, and Bordeaux are all worthy destinations in France that should be on your travel list. Each has unique reasons for visiting, but the cities are all easily accessible from Paris.

We’ll tell you why these 3 cities should be on your radar, how to get there, your lodging options, things to do, and food to try.

Getting There

Fortunately, the destinations featured in our article today can all be easily reached from Paris. Even more fortunate is that Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is one of the busiest airports in Europe, with good award flight availability.

Let’s start with a few ideas for getting to CDG using miles and points:

• Redeem 50,000 Virgin Atlantic Flying Club points to book Delta One one-way in business class from the U.S. to Paris (CDG).
• Redeem 57,500 American Airlines AAdvantage miles to book Flagship Business one-way from the U.S. to Paris (CDG).
• Redeem 70,000 Air Canada Aeroplan points to book United Polaris one-way from Chicago (ORD) to Paris (CDG).Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
• Redeem 88,000 ANA Mileage Club miles to book United Polaris round-trip from the U.S. to Paris (CDG). United flies nonstop from Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO), Newark (EWR), and Washington, D.C. (IAD).

This is just a sampling of possibilities for inspiration purposes; availability and prices will vary. See our guide for more information on the best ways to fly to Paris using miles and points.

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When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than the Platinum Card^® from American Express.

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Nantes, France

While Nantes is often overlooked by travelers, it’s a destination with a lot to offer.

First, the area is much more affordable than Paris, but it offers some of the same period architecture, great food, fantastic art, rich history, and easy navigation.

The city has a whimsical vibe, with art around every corner, a grand steampunk mechanical project, castles, and Gothic cathedrals. On the other hand, the green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas provide a perfect setting for relaxation and taking it all in.

The city is easy to explore on foot, but you can purchase public transport passes to expedite your transit and maximize your visit.

Getting There

While technically you could fly to Nantes from many major European hub cities, taking the train from the Paris city center is a delightful journey that takes around 2 hours.

If you fly into Paris CDG, you can also take a direct train to Nantes. However, the journey can take over 4 hours from the airport as you must first transit through the city of Paris. A nonstop flight from CDG to Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) will take just over an hour.

If you arrive by plane, you can transit to the city easily and affordably by taking the Navette Aéroport bus to Nantes Gare Sud.

Where To Stay Using Hotel Loyalty Points or Card Statement Credits

During the spring and fall shoulder seasons, Nantes offers affordable lodging, making it the perfect time to visit the city.

Unfortunately, there are few options for using hotel loyalty points in Nantes.

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Nantes is one option in the city center, close to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne castle. The hotel is located in a neoclassical renovated courthouse, conveniently near public transportation. You can use Radisson Rewards points to book your stay.

If you have Best Western Rewards points, the Best Western Hotel Graslin is also an option in Nantes. The hotel receives high ratings for its boutique style, breakfast, and Jules Verne-themed decor. Rooms can be booked starting at 16,000 points.

Fortunately, comfortable accommodations are not expensive in Nantes, so using various card statement credits to offset lodging costs is possible. Here are some ideas, not just for Nantes, but for all of the cities mentioned in this article:

• $300 annual travel credit on the Chase Sapphire Reserve^®
• $300 annual travel credit with the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card when booking through Capital One Travel
• $300 annual hotel credit with the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card when booking through Citi Travel
• Up to $600 prepaid hotel credit on the Amex Platinum card on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or the Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum 2-night stay through AmexTravel.com (distributed on up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually).
• Up to $200 in Delta Stays credits with select Delta co-branded credit cards.
• Up to $200 in hotel statement credits for United Hotels or Renowned Hotels and Resorts with select United co-branded credit cards.
• $50 statement credit on the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card when booking a hotel with Chase Travel

Hot Tip:

Be sure to check for any Amex Offers on your American Express cards (enrollment required) and Chase Offers on your Chase cards for lodging statement credits. Recent offers have included statement credits for accommodation bookings from select hotel brands, and Hotels.com.

Things To Do

Nantes is a picturesque city to explore, but there are even more reasons to visit the area.

• Les Machines de l’île (Machines of the Island) is one of the most incredible artistic project sites you will ever visit. Ride a mechanical elephant and a 2-story bizarre carousel, watch mechanical winged creatures fly above you, and marvel at giant metal moving caterpillars. It’s an experience both adults and children will love and a key reason to visit Nantes.

• Château des ducs de Bretagne lies right in the middle of the city. It’s an intriguing castle with an interesting museum and historical and foreign exhibitions. The courtyard is a nice place to bring a bag lunch and take a break.
• If you’re a Jules Verne fan or love science fiction, don’t miss the Jules Verne Museum. His works, including “Journey to the Center of the Earth” and “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea,” are classics. Nantes is Verne’s birthplace, and his life and literary work are celebrated here.
• Don’t leave Nantes without visiting the Quai des Antilles. The riverside area is pedestrian-friendly and filled with restaurants, shops, and great water views.
• The Nantes Botanical Garden has over 10,000 species of plants, but the park is also a place for picnics, using the self-service barbecue stations and enjoying the paddling pools.
• Nantes Cathedral is an impressive Gothic structure that you should visit while in the city.
• Nantes’ museums are free to enter on the first Sunday of every month (except July and August), and those under 18 are free anytime at most museums.
• A Journey to Nantes is a painted walking path that leads to over 100 artworks throughout the city. The site also provides everything you need to know to plan your visit to Nantes.

Food To Try

• First thing, head over to Talensac Market to check out all the local food, crafts, florists, and goods. It’s the perfect place to sample local food and learn more about its history. The market is indoors and open every day except non-holiday Mondays.
• Rich in vitamin C and beta carotene, Nantes lamb’s lettuce is a great addition to any meal. It is best drizzled with hazelnut oil.
• Your main course may be a Nantes duck. Said to be a cross between local ducks and mallards, it’s a popular choice if you enjoy duck. Prepared with local wine and apples, it can be delicious.
• Curé Nantais is a soft cheese that pairs well with the local Muscadet dry white wine and freshly baked bread.
• Local mussels, oysters, shrimp, and salmon are popular dishes in Nantes.
• Berlingots are boiled sweets in a pyramid shape, while Rigolettes have a firm sugar-coated shell filled with fruit marmalade that bursts in your mouth when bitten. Both sweets date back centuries and make a nice ending to a meal.

Hot Tip:

You’ll find many tours and excursions in Nantes through Viator, including a private guided walking tour.

Mont St. Michel

This iconic abbey sits on an island drastically affected by tides. Fortunately, permanent access has been established, making it easy to approach the entrance without crossing the sands on foot.

Mont St. Michel was carved into the island’s rock and stands impressively on the bays of Brittney and Normandy. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the eighth century. The abbey was added later and is an incredible example of medieval architecture, worth the climb to the top of the island.

The island is breathtaking as you approach it gradually and take in its beauty.

Getting There

The best ways to get to Mont St Michel are to drive or book a tour.

However, you can take the train from Paris to Pontorson, France, the closest station to Mont St. Michel. The train trip from Paris Montparnasse station via Rennes to Pontorson takes about 4 hours, including transfer times. There are frequent shuttle buses from the train station to Mont St. Michel.

Booking a tour can be the easiest way to visit Mont Saint-Michel. There are frequent departures from Paris that feature a rest break along the way. Viator offers tours that depart from Paris or Bayeau, France.

Finally, you could rent a car. This option allows you to stop when necessary and make spontaneous diversions. Exploring the Normandy area of France is also a nearby option.

Where To Stay Using Hotel Loyalty Points

Not many lodging options allow you to utilize hotel loyalty points when visiting Mont St. Michel.

Since Mont St. Michel can be done as a long day trip from Paris, hotels in the city, particularly near the Montparnasse station, provide access by train. Popular hotels bookable with hotel loyalty points include the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome, Hotel du Louvre, Canopy by Hilton Paris Tracadaro, and the Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris (Marriott).

Hôtel Mercure Mont Saint-Michel is about as close to Mont St. Michel as you can stay using hotel loyalty points. From this Accor hotel, a footpath leads along the water’s edge to the entrance to Mont St. Michel. There are also complimentary shuttles nearby.

ALL Reward points have a fixed redemption value of €20 (around $23) off for every 1,000 Reward points redeemed, which is equal to about 2.3 cents per point. Capital One miles transfer to ALL at a 1:2 ratio. Meanwhile, Citi ThankYou Points transfer at a 2:1 ratio or 1:0.35, depending on which card you have.

The Best Western Hôtel Montgomery is a cozy, quaint hotel less than 7 miles from Mont St. Michel. You can book a room starting at 16,000 Best Western Rewards points.

The best choice for lodging may be on the island. Visiting on weekdays, avoiding holidays and weekends, can be the best time to secure the best rates. Spring, fall, and winter can be the best times to visit, as they tend to avoid summer crowds.

Hot Tip:

It is possible to spend the night on the island of Mont St. Michel. La Mère Poulard, Le Mouton Blanc, Les Terrasses Poulard, Hôtel la Croix Blanche, and Auberge Saint Pierre are hotels within the walls. The advantage of spending the night is that you can explore the island at night and in the morning when there are no tourists present.

Things To Do

For a small island, there’s plenty to see and do in Mont St. Michel. You’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes for the hilly journey.

• The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel is a must-visit. Try to time your visit to coincide with the choir’s performance, as it is an enjoyable experience. Also, plan to visit the cloisters, the refectory, and the monks’ promenade.
• La Chapelle Saint-Aubert is a smaller, quieter, but beautiful, chapel on the east side of the island at sea level as you enter Mont St. Michel. It’s worth a visit if you have time, and best when the tide is out.
• La Grande Rue is the main street in Mont St. Michel. You’ll walk on this street to reach the abbey. Be sure to take time to explore it, as it’s filled with restaurants and unique shops.
• Walking the sandbanks around Mont St. Michel at low tide is an incredible experience with great views, but don’t try it on your own. You can hire a guide who will narrate the journey and help you avoid the quicksand.

• Rent a bike and cycle across the surrounding land area and the walkway bridge to Mont St. Michel. Bikes are not allowed on the streets or sidewalks of Mont St. Michel, but bike parking areas are at the entrance before the walkway. Here’s information on biking around the area.

Learn more about what there is to see and do at Mont St. Michel and explore guided tours through Viator.

Food To Try

Food can be expensive on the island, and the restaurants are quite touristy. That said, you’ll likely want to have at least a meal there. Here are some dining options you’ll have at mealtime.

• Fresh local mussels are one of the most popular dishes in Mont St. Michel. The variety is vast, and each restaurant has its specialty. You’ll find them cooked in cream, garlic, saffron, curry, white wine, blue cheese, Dijon mustard, marinara, herbs, butter, and more!
• Pasture-raised lamb is a local specialty and worth trying. The lean meat is grilled or roasted with garlic sauce and commonly served with potatoes.
• Although the Mother Poulard’s Omelette, originating in Mont St. Michel, is touted as the “best omelet in the world,” you may pay dearly for it on the island. It’s a fluffy egg omelet made by beating the whites and yolks separately.
• A sweet or savory crepe can be a delightful meal choice for good value and good eating. The island has several good creperies.

Access the official tourism site for more information on visiting Mont St. Michel.

Bordeaux, France

If you’re a wine lover, Bordeaux is the city for you. In addition to being one of the world’s most renowned wine regions, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its rich history.

With medieval architecture, artisan shops, locally-owned restaurants, markets, and relaxing green spaces, the walkable city center is a traveler’s dream.

While there are plenty of wine tasting venues within the city, the surrounding countryside is home to thousands of vineyards, which is the proper way to experience the Bordeaux region.

Getting There

The scenic train from Paris to Bordeaux takes just over 2 hours and may be the best option for getting to the city. It’s also a picturesque way to make the journey.

You can also fly directly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) after connecting through one of the major European hub cities and taking a short flight. For example, the flight from Paris (CDG) takes just over an hour. Fortunately, all major airline alliances fly into Bordeaux.

Where To Stay Using Hotel Loyalty Points

Bordeaux, being a larger city, offers a wide range of lodging options that can be booked using hotel loyalty points.

Here are some hotels you can book in Bordeaux using points.

Marriott

When staying at the Renaissance Bordeaux Hotel, you can walk to the river and enjoy the trendy Old Docks neighborhood where the hotel is located. It’s a newer hotel with a rooftop pool and city views. You can book a room starting at 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Moxy properties have gained an enthusiastic audience, and the Moxy Bordeaux will not disappoint. Located in the harbor district, guests can walk to the river, enjoy the funky vibe, and even try out the hotel’s climbing wall. Rooms start at 23,000 points per night.

Hilton

The YNDO Hotel, a member of SLH Hotels, boasts a riverside location ideal for exploring the city. The hotel combines heritage surroundings with modern decor. Standard rooms can be booked starting at 85,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

The Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is just a 10-minute walk from all the sites of the city and a shopping mall. The hotel is a popular venue for events. You can book rooms starting at 38,000 points per night.

The Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre is across from the river and just a kilometer from the train station. The city center is 2.5 miles from the hotel and can be accessed via public transportation. The hotel is the perfect option if you’re on a budget, as rooms start at 28,000 points per night.

Hyatt

The First Name Bordeaux, a JDV by Hyatt property, receives excellent reviews for its service, luxury, and warm ambiance. Additionally, the tram stop is conveniently located right outside the hotel, making it easy to access from the airport and to explore the city. You can book rooms starting at 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hyatt has 2 additional Mr & Mrs Smith properties located outside the city. Les Sources de Caudalie and Château Léognan are luxury properties offering boutique environments and fine estate wine experiences. Each hotel can be booked starting at 24,250 World of Hyatt points per night.

IHG

Experience luxury in the heart of Bordeaux at the InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. With its spa, pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant, it will be easy to pamper yourself. This iconic 19th-century property can be booked from 64,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

The Hotel Indigo Bordeaux Centre Chartrons is a boutique property offering the “bohemian charm of a seaside guesthouse.” With rooftop dining and steps away from some of the city’s most popular sites, the hotel could be a good choice starting at just 23,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Accor

Accor has dozens of properties in Bordeaux, including Ibis, Mercure, and Novotel brand hotels. There’s a property for every price range and preferred comfort level.

Things To Do

Arguably, the best activity in Bordeaux is wine tasting, but there is much more to do in the area.

• Booking a wine tour should be at the top of your list when visiting Bordeaux. Even if you don’t drink wine, the beauty of the countryside, vineyards, ancient villages, chateaus, and estates is lure enough to partake. Dozens of options can be booked via Viator, from private estate tastings to small group tours that take you to several vineyards.
• Exploring the city on foot is doable and highly recommended. Don’t miss the key sights, including the Pey Berland Tower, Bordeaux Cathedral, Porte Cailhou, Grosse Cloche, and Place de la Bourse. A stop at the visitors bureau near Place des Quinconces is a good place to begin your journey.
• Le Petit Train de Bordeaux is an easy way to explore the city and get your bearings. The quiet electric train is an affordable way to relax, take the weight off your tired feet, and enjoy the 45-minute tour.
• La Cité du Vin may be considered a wine museum, but in addition to history, the stunning venue offers a fascinating interactive world tour of all things wine. It’s worth a visit.
• If you want to go shopping, visit the busy Rue Saint-Catherine. It’s a lengthy pedestrian street lined with shops and located in the city’s historic area.
• Enjoy a light show at Bassins des Lumieres. A former submarine base makes for the perfect venue to experience this digital art experience.

Food To Try

You won’t go hungry in Bordeaux, as good cuisine pairs well with fine wines. You’ll find plenty of each when visiting the region.

• While your first thought when ordering local cuisine may not be steak, the region offers a fine selection of locally raised meats, including Bazas beef and Pauillac lamb.
• Additionally, the wild mushrooms found in the region are said to be among the most flavorful. Don’t miss adding them to your meal.
• Duck or goose foie gras is a local specialty.
• With the sea just an hour away, fresh Atlantic oysters and seafood are also good choices. The image above was taken at Le Cabanon Merin.
• Marche des Capucins is the marketplace where you can find all the local food products and have lunch.
• Les Halles Bacalan is a food hall with an excellent combination of local goods, eateries, and bars. You can select your preferred food and drink and dine inside or out. Local specialties abound, and the energy is high — a great choice with options for every palate.
• You don’t have to wait until the end of a meal to try Canele, a mini caramel-topped sweet filled with custard or cream puffs filled with various fillings.

Final Thoughts

Any of our featured cities would be good options as a side trip from Paris. You’ll still enjoy rich experiences, but they’re more affordable than in the big city.

The best time to visit these areas is during the shoulder seasons of April and May, or September and October. Avoiding the summer tourist crowds will allow you to book flights and hotels using miles and points and enjoy the cities comfortably.

Regardless of which city you choose, these are 3 cities in France you should consider adding to your travel list.