Discovering the treasures of France's architectural and cultural heritage

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Cultural HeritageCities

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Reading time: 0 minPublished on 27 March 2025

France is bursting with heritage treasures. Discover the remarkable cultural and architectural heritage of each of these regions: from historic town centres brimming with charm to majestic churches and cathedrals and medieval châteaux. Contemplate and visit these heritage sites, witnesses to the past!

Auxerre, a heritage gem

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From small heritage sites to majestic monuments, Auxerre has something for everyone! Stroll through the town centre, admire the half-timbered houses, visit the monuments, churches and clock tower. Enjoy the view and immerse yourself in history!

Beaucaire, a thousand-year-old history

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When you visit Beaucaire, make sure you don't miss the Abbey of Saint-Roman. Just imagine: a place that has been occupied for over fifteen centuries! With a unique character: part of the site is carved into the rock of the hill. The view from the top is sublime. Come and visit!

Explore Besançon's remarkable heritage

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Stroll through the streets of Besançon and let yourself be charmed by its impressive heritage: Gallo-Roman remains, town houses, Saint-Jean cathedral, astronomical clock... and of course the citadel, built by Vauban!

The Dragon of Calais

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Climb aboard the impressive Dragon for a unique experience! This machine, which has taken up residence on the renovated seafront, is a wonderful addition to Calais' heritage!

Châteaudun, visit it's castle

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During your stay in Châteaudun, don't miss a visit to the château: considered to be one of the first pleasure châteaux in France, it alone sums up four centuries of architecture, from the solid defensive dungeon to the Renaissance parts dedicated to pleasure.

Figeac, a timeless town

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The best way to discover Figeac is to get lost in its narrow streets, full of charm and surprises. Take a stroll around the historic centre and discover some of its most emblematic sites: the church of Saint-Sauveur, the famous Place des Écritures and many more.

Longwy, an extraordinary history

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Renowned for its magnificent enamels, the town of Longwy is also home to unsuspected heritage treasures. Visit the unusual citadel, listed as a World Heritage Site as part of the network of major Vauban sites, the church of Saint-Dagobert, and many other unsuspected treasures.

Discover Montbéliard in a historic Peugeot

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Visit Montbéliard in an original way! Climb aboard a vintage Peugeot and discover some remarkable sites: the castle of the Dukes of Wurtemberg, the Peugeot Adventure Museum, the historic centre... A fresh look at this beautiful town.

Stroll through Montpellier's historic centre

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Discover the little-known Montpellier! Get lost in the maze of ancient streets in the historic centre of the city, a veritable village within the city. Don't miss the charming rue du Bras-de-Fer, with its colourful staircases and little terraces.

Moulins, capital of the Bourbons

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Behind this name, Moulins, lies a magnificent town of Art and History, brimming with treasures. In particular, you can find the pretty Place d'Allier, where the Sacré-Coeur church takes pride of place.

Périgueux, the must-see Saint-Front cathedral

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As soon as you arrive in Périgueux, the majestic Saint-Front cathedral catches the eye and impresses with its size. With its highly original architecture inspired by the Orient, it dominates the city. Climb up onto its roofs to admire the city from above: it's all the more beautiful!

Pezenas, the city of Moliere

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Pézenas, a charming town steeped in history, is home to many historic monuments. Let yourself be transported by the discovery of its historic centre, its picturesque setting and walk in the footsteps of Molière, who stayed here many times.

Rouen, ‘the city of a hundred steeples’

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In the heart of the historic centre, admire and enter the majestic Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral. There are many other historic monuments to discover during your visit.

Vitré and its medieval jewel

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Overlooking the Vilaine and the historic centre, discover Vitré's medieval castle, witness to the town's rich and eventful history. During your visit, don't forget to climb up to the dungeon for a magnificent panoramic view of the town.

By The editor

The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.