10 Must-visit Prettiest Villages In France Voted As The Nation’s Favourite
Discover the 10 must-visit prettiest villages in France, voted as the nation’s favourites in 2025. Explore charming medieval streets, historic landmarks, scenic landscapes, and authentic French culture.
France’s charm lies in its quaint, timeless villages where history, culture, and stunning architecture intertwine to create unforgettable experiences. Every year, Stéphane Bern’s beloved television program, “France’s Favourite Village” (Le Village préféré des Français), invites viewers to vote for the villages that capture the heart of the nation. From cobbled medieval streets to charming riversides, these villages celebrate centuries of French heritage, local craftsmanship, and vibrant community life. (Image: Canva)
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In 2025, French audiences once again revealed their favourites, selecting ten exceptional villages that perfectly balance historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness. Each village tells its own story—whether through grand abbeys, hidden alleyways, or centuries-old marketplaces—offering travelers an authentic taste of France’s rural beauty and traditions. These villages are not just picturesque destinations; they are living testaments to France’s history, artistry, and enduring charm. Here are the 10 prettiest villages in France for 2025, as voted by the French people themselves: (Image: Canva)
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1. Saint-Antoine-l’Abbaye (Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes) Voted France’s favourite village 2025, this medieval treasure boasts Gothic abbeys, cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and a rich history of pilgrimages, offering visitors a surreal glimpse into France’s spiritual and architectural past. (Image: Canva)
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2. Malestroit (Morbihan, Brittany) Nestled along peaceful canals, Malestroit enchants with its medieval stone houses, narrow cobbled lanes, and vibrant markets. The village radiates classic Breton charm, perfect for cultural exploration and riverside strolls. (Image: Canva)
3. Semur-en-Auxois (Côte-d’Or, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté) A fortified Burgundy town, Semur-en-Auxois boasts picturesque stone bridges, medieval towers, and panoramic views. Its streets are steeped in history, making it a perfect stop for photographers and heritage enthusiasts. (Image: Canva)
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4. Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne (Corrèze, Nouvelle-Aquitaine) Situated along the Dordogne River, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne delights with its Romanesque abbey, riverside charm, and lush green surroundings. The village’s serene atmosphere feels like stepping into a centuries-old French postcard. (Image: Canva)
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5. Clécy (Calvados, Normandy) Known as the “Normandy capital of outdoor sports,” Clécy blends adventure with beauty. Its rolling hills, river views, and charming medieval streets create an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and explorers. (Image: Canva)
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6. Sierck-les-Bains (Moselle, Grand-Est) This border village offers a fascinating Franco-Germanic heritage, a majestic medieval castle, and cobbled streets. Sierck-les-Bains combines history, scenic views, and quiet village life for a cultural escape. (Image: Wikipedia)
7. Grand’Rivière (Martinique, Overseas Territories) The northernmost village in Martinique surprises with dramatic cliffs, lush tropical landscapes, and Atlantic Ocean vistas. Grand’Rivière’s vibrant culture and natural beauty make it a unique French island gem. (Image: Facebook/Grand-Rivière, La Commune )
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8. Ferrières-en-Gâtinais (Loiret, Centre-Val de Loire) A tranquil village with centuries-old stone houses, a historic church, and charming lanes. Ferrières-en-Gâtinais offers peaceful walks, scenic views, and a taste of authentic French countryside life. (Image: Wikipedia)
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9. Longpont (Aisne, Hauts-de-France) Home to a remarkable Gothic abbey and surrounded by lush greenery, Longpont impresses with its history, medieval charm, and serene atmosphere, perfect for leisurely exploration and photography. (Image: Wikipedia)
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10. Lupiac (Gers, Occitanie) The birthplace of musketeer d’Artagnan, Lupiac boasts cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and Gascony’s rustic charm. Its cultural heritage and quaint ambiance provide an authentic French rural experience. (Image: Canva)
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
