Where To Stay In France-By Region And Department

Where should you stay in France? It really depends on what you want to see and do and what type of place you want to stay at. In this post, I share my favourite hotels, chambre d’hôtes (Bed and Breakfasts), apartments, and houses I’ve stayed in, organized by region and department. I’ve also included a brief summary of each region and why I liked the property.

**Contains Affiliate Links: if you purchase or book something through these links, I get a small commission (at no extra charge to you).  With or without the commission, I genuinely recommend the products noted. Airbnb no longer has an Airbnb Associates program; however, I am still including links to some of the properties. **

1. Where To Stay In The Paris Region-Ile-de-France

(a) About The Region

Ile-de-France is also known as the Paris Region. This entire area attracts almost 50 million visitors a year who visit the capital, the city of Paris with its numerous attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and Louvre museum.

In this region are major sites such as the Palais de Versailles and Château de Fontainebleau, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can easily get there from Paris on the subway and train.

To me, the ring road that encircles Paris, also known as Boulevard Périphérique is the boundary line for staying in Paris. Don’t stay in a place outside this line especially when you want to visit Paris for a couple of days or for a week. It’s just too far out from all the sites you’ll want to see and you’ll be on the Metro too long getting into the city.

(i) Where To Stay In Paris…And Not To Stay?

So where should you stay in Paris? Is there a “best area to stay in Paris?  No, because. as the French say,, “Chacun à son goût” (to each his own). We all have different budgets and accommodation tastes. But I will say there are areas where I would not stay due to safety (ie. near Gare du Nord or Strasbourg-St Denis area). So you need to do your research about each arrondissement (district) in Paris to decide which ones appeal to you.

I have often stayed in the 5th and 6th arrondissements; however, lately I’ve really like the Marais area (the 11th arrondissement). Staying in the city centre is a good choice as Paris is a very walkable city. You walk everywhere (and should because everywhere you look there will likely be a historic monument). Staying near the river Seine will always be a good choice because you’ll be closer to many of the major sites and museums, but the cost will usually be higher.

(ii) Staying By Charles de Gaulle Airport

Many choose to stay out by the airport before flying home because it is less stressful and Charles de Gaulle airport is just outside the city so I’ve included some airport hotels in this link: airport hotels.

(b) In The Centre of Paris (Department: Paris)

Hotel Choiseul Opera (2ème arr)

Hotel Choiseul Opera is an excellent hotel near the Palais Garnier Opera and many tourist sites. It is a three-star hotel with an elevator.. The room is air-conditioned with a kettle and a Nespresso machine. Highly recommend. Trip #35. For prices, check here: Hotel Choiseul Opera

Apartment On The Right Bank (2ème arr)

I spent 10 nights in this apartment at the end of my 2-month trip to France. The 1 bedroom apartment had everything I needed and more: a washer/dryer, balcony, and air conditioning. It was in a very good location and was a great apartment in a building with an elevator. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Right Bank Apartment

Le Petit Belloy (6ème arr)

This hotel is located right near Blvds Saint Michel and Saint Germain. The hotel provides free Nespresso coffee (in the lobby) and has very friendly service. The room was very comfortable and quiet. Trip #30. For prices, check here: Le Petit Belloy

Citadines Bastille Marais (11ème arr)

As I wrote in this post, A Better Alternative To Airbnb the Citadines apartment/hotel was incredibly clean in the perfect location-in the Marais, close to the weekly Bastille market and Place des Vosges. No worries about the booking being cancelled at the last minute or even having to clean it before I left. I have stayed in the studio and a one bedroom and both were great. There is also free Wifi. Trip #35 For prices, check here: Citadines Bastille Marais

Hotel Palym (12ème arr)

This hotel is in the best location if you need to be near Gare de Lyon. The room was modern, comfortable, was reasonably-priced, and it had air conditioning. There were also lots of restaurants in this location. I stayed here during Trip #31 before heading to Normandy. For prices, check here: Hotel Palym

Platine Hotel (15ème arr)

I stayed here in late December one year. My friend and I chose it due to its good location for restaurants and not being far from the Eiffel Tower (we were there for New Year’s Eve). The room was modern and well-equipped. Trip #27. For prices, check here: Platine Hotel

(c) Near Charles de Gaulle Airport (Department: Le Mesnil-Amelot Seine-et-Marne)

These hotels are accessed using the hotel’s shuttle from Charles de Gaulle airport at the TGV/RER Train Station in Terminal 2. In past years the shuttle was free; however, since Covid, more hotels are charging a minimal fee (ie. 2 or 3 €).

Nomad Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle

The Nomad is modern, with a shuttle to/from the airport, and has a good breakfast.. The room is very clean, air-conditioned and uses eco-friendly materials. The room is very high tech and the tv is projected on the room wall. Trip #31. For prices, check here: Nomad Paris Roissy CDG

Ibis Styles Paris Roissy CDG

I stayed here the night before departing from Charles de Gaulle airport. Like all “Styles’ level hotels, the rooms are comfortable and the breakfast is excellent. You pay a nominal fee to use the Hotel Navette (shuttle) from Terminal 2 (TGV station). Trip #35. For prices, check here: Ibis Style Paris Roissy CDG

2. Where To Stay In Normandy Region

(a) About The Region

Normandy is one of my favourite regions because it has a wide variety of sites, experiences and cuisine. You’ve got the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont Saint-Michel, the D-Day beaches, and the alabaster cliffs and fireworks at Etretat.

And of course, there’s also the Cider Route, the Cheese Route, and it’s the region where my favourite apératif, Pommeau de Normandie is produced.

(b) Seine-Maritime Department

Etretat House

The house I rented had the best location in Etretat. It was a large home with 3 levels: living room and bathroom, kitchen, and 1 bedroom with 2 beds. There was a lovely garden surrounding the house and the owner’s house was next door and the area was very quiet. Free parking was available on the property as was a shortcut into town. It only took me 5-10 minutes to get there. The Superhost was very helpful and friendly. Trip #31. For prices, check here: Etretat House

(c) Manche Department

Pontorson (near Mont Saint-Michel): Villa Mons

I chose this hotel in Pontorson because it was not far from Mont Saint-Michel (7 km) and was much more reasonably priced. It was no problem visiting Mont Saint-Michel at dusk and driving back at night. The hotel provided a great breakfast on the terrace and the room was spacious. Trip #28. For prices, check here: Villa Mons

3. Where To Stay In Brittany Region

(a) About The Region

Brittany is the northwestern region of France by the Atlantic Ocean and it has a rugged coastline where I visited Saint-Malo and the most amazing sculptured rocks called, “Rochers Sculptés”. The region is famous for crêpes, a delicious pastry called Kouign Amann, seafood (especially oysters in Cancale), megalithic stones at Carnac and half-timbered houses in many towns like Dinan and Vannes. Check out my 6-day itinerary in Brittany.

(b) Côtes-d’Armor Department

Dinan: Maison La Tour

Maison La Tour is a place where I wish I could have stayed longer. It was a fully equipped apartment with a terrace and a delicious breakfast was brought to me each morning. The apartment was beautifully decorated and convenient-it was in the centre of Dinan, so I could just park (private parking) and walk everywhere. Trip #28 For prices, check here: Maison La Tour

(c) Morbihan Department

Vannes: Ti Laouenek

I chose the town of Vannes because it was en route from Dinan to Nantes and it looked like a picturesque town to visit. It definitely was.  I had a room with private bathroom in this B and B although I did have the living room all to myself. The couple who run it were lovely and provided a delicious breakfast. It was just a short walk into the old town. Trip #28 For prices, check here: Ti Laouenek

4. Where To Stay In Pays de la Loire Region

(a) About The Region

Two regions cover the Loire Valley, the Pays de La Loire and the Centre-Val de Loire, so you’ll again encounter beautiful châteaux, such as Château de Saumur and Château d’Angers. You’ll also find more half-timbered houses (Angers) and the capital of the region, Nantes, has the wonderful Les Machines de L’Ile, gigantic creations that move, like the walking elephant.

(b) Maine-et-Loire Department

Saumur: Hotel St. Pierre

Saumur is on the shores on the Loire River and this hotel was in the centre of town, right by the Château. It had a refined elegance to it and my friend and I enjoyed having a drink in the sitting/bar area, and talking to the owner. Our room was spacious and parking was right in front of the hotel. Trip #19. For prices, check here: Hotel St. Pierre.

5. Where To Stay in Centre-Val de Loire Region

(a) About The Region

The Centre-Val de Loire is where I spent much time seeing the Châteaux of the Loire Valley. This post outlines some of the most famous as well as interesting activities you can do in the area. Click here to read the post.  There are so many scattered throughout the region, such as Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry. You can also easily stay in a real château if you want. Here’s the post about staying in a château.

(b) Indre-et-Loire Department

Montbazon: Château d’Artigny

This 18th-century château has beautiful architecture and antique furnishings in the rooms and salons. The service and dinner were first class. More information is here. For prices, check here: Château d’Artigny.

(c) Loir-et-Cher Department

Blois: La Maison du Carroir

I absolutely LOVED this lovely B&B located in central Blois. The room was elegantly furnished. My friend and I stayed here for two nights and used Blois as our base to explore the area and see more châteaux. Parking was included as was the unbelievably delicious breakfast. The spread was enormous! This is a great place to stay, partly due to its perfect location—-close to Blois Castle and the train station. Would definitely stay here again. For prices, check here: Blois: La Maison du Carroir

Chissay-en-Touraine: Château de Chissay

When I wrote about staying in a real French château, this castle was listed as my favourite. The surroundings and accommodations were luxurious. There was a pool and we did hang out there one late afternoon.  Dinner was delicious—wine and ingredients from the Loire region. For prices, check here: Château de Chissay.

Onzain: Hotel Château des Tertres

I have stayed at Hotel Château des Tertres twice. Very friendly service, lovely accommodations on a large property that was near all the major castles. This is where I had the best fromage blanc in France. For prices, check here: Château des Tertres

6. Where To Stay in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region

(a) About The Region

If you’re wondering where to stay in the south of France, you’ve got a huge area to explore. The southeastern area of France is called the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.  Most people simply think of Provence and the Côte d’Azur (also called the French Riviera); however, the region is divided into 6 departments (Alpes-de-Haut-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouche du Rhône, Haute Alpes, Var, and Vaucluse).

So if you want to visit the south of France, one really needs a few weeks, perhaps concentrating on the western part (ie. Vaucluse) for the first week and then heading to the east (ie. Alpes-Maritimes) for the second week. I have visited the Vaucluse many times, often staying a few weeks.

During your first week, you can explore all the hilltop villages, such as Gordes, Menerbes and Bonnieux in Provence, the outdoor markets, and the famous wine and village, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. If you’re there in late June and July there are the lavender fields and bullfighting at the amphitheatre in Arles. One highlight is to see the Calanques de Cassis—-either by boat or by hiking.

To the east, along the Côte d’Azur, is the Principality of Monaco plus many seaside villages like Saint Tropez, Cassis, Nice, and Menton, and special events like the Fête du Citron in Menton which takes place in February/March.

Check out these itineraries to read about the highlights:

Trip #28: 1 week in Provence

Trip #31: 1 week in Provence

Trip #33-2 weeks in Provence during my 2-month trip to France

Trip #34–12 days in Menton and Nice While I took the train most of the time (ie. to Antibes), I did a car rental for 3 days so that I could explore the area near Nice. it worked out perfectly—-I drove to Nice, made stops along the way and then drove around the next day before returning the car in Nice. Something to consider if you want to cut costs.  

(b) Alpes-Maritimes Department

Nice: Ibis Styles Nice Aéroport Arenas

Ibis Styles Nice Aéroport Arenas hotel is easily accessed from the centre of Nice via the tram and from the airport via the free hotel shuttle. The restaurant where I ate dinner was very good and very close to the hotel. Like all Ibis Styles hotels, it was modern and comfortable. The breakfast was very good. Trip #34. For prices, check here: Ibis Styles Nice Aéroport Arenas

Nice: Apartment In The Heart Of Nice, At The Gates Of Old Nice

The location of this apartment in Nice was perfect: in Old Nice on a street that has lots of shops and restaurants. Surprisingly, the apartment was very quiet. This is because it faces north and towards an open area where the trams pass. I consider this more of a studio apartment even though there was an alcove (with door) that is the bedroom. It was spacious, very clean, and comfortable. Trip #34. For prices, check here: Apartment In The Heart Of Nice

Menton: Apartment In The Centre Of Menton

I loved this 1-bedroom apartment which is ideally located to everything. It has a living room and spacious kitchen with a dining area and the views are lovely.  It’s modern and in a building that has an elevator. The Superhost was very helpful. Note: a free city bus passes nearby on the same street. Trip #34. For prices, check here: Apartment In The Centre Of Menton

(c) Bouches-du-Rhône Department

Cassis: Apartment In The Centre Of Cassis

This is where to stay in France for a week! The apartment is in a super location, only a few blocks from the Cassis port. It has modern furnishings and equipment and is in a quiet area. There is free parking in a secured area. The best part about the apartment? Having a balcony/terrace. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Cassis: Apartment In The Centre Of Cassis

Aix-en-Provence: Hôtel du Globe (now called Hôtel Escaletto)

This is a nice hotel in the central, safe part of Aix-en-Provence. I had a reasonably-priced, modern room with air conditioning. I’d stay here again. Trip #28. For prices, check here: Hotel Escaletto

Marseille: Alex Hotel And Spa

I really liked this hotel: modern bedroom and bathroom. It is conveniently located across the street from the main train station and up the street from the port. So after dropping off our car, we walked everywhere. Trip #27. For prices, check here: Alex Hotel And Spa

(d) Vaucluse Department

Bonnieux: La Grange

I had a spacious apartment overlooking a vineyard. It was attached to the owner’s house and had a private entrance, a separate bedroom area, and a modern bathroom. The kitchen was large and well-equipped and I parked just outside the entrance. It’s about a 20-minute walk into Bonnieux. Trip #33. For prices, check here: La Grange.

Murs (near Gordes)

I have stayed at this lovely gite in the countryside twice. It is run by a very friendly British couple who live in the house next door. I had a 1-bedroom house that included 2 bathrooms, a living room with a sofa bed and a well-equipped kitchen. There was also a terrace where I dined alfresco many times. You’ll need a car to get to the property. It is a 10-minute drive to the town of Gordes. Trip #24 and Trip #31. For prices, check here: La Sariette

7. Where To Stay In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region

(a) About The Region

In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region there is a wide variety of destinations and sites ranging from:

• range of volcanoes (Chaîne des Puys) which includes the famous Puy-de-Dôme
• Lyon: one of the major centres of gastronomy in France-famous for its bouchons, traboules, fresques (wall murals), and the movie-making museum, the Lumière Museum. There’s also Fourvière Hill which has La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and Théâtre Gallo-Romain amphitheatre.
• the Ardèche, such as caves (Aven d’Orgnac and Grotte Chauvet 2 Ardèche), canyons (Gorges de l’Ardèche) and kayaking at Pont d’Arc, and
• hiking in the French Alps at Mont Blanc and Chamonix

(b) Rhône Department

Lyon: Ibis Styles Lyon Center Part Dieu

I stayed here at the beginning of my 2-month trip to France because I wanted to be near the train station. Lyon’s Part Dieu train station is just down the street. The price was good and the room was clean and comfortable, and the breakfast was good. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Ibis Styles Lyon Center Part Dieu

Lyon: Ibis Lyon Part Dieu Les Halles

I stayed here twice on my way to my French Immersion school because it is so conveniently located near Lyon’s Part Dieu train station. It’s a pretty typical Ibis hotel-clean, quiet and reasonably priced. Trip #29. For prices, check here: Ibis Lyon Part Dieu Les Halles

(c) Ain Department

Sainte-Julie: Les Chambres de la Renaissance

This restored château had all modern furnishings and provided an extensive breakfast. It was the perfect stopover between Lyon and the French Alps. More information here. For prices, check here: Les Chambres de la Renaissance

8. Where To Stay in Occitanie Region

(a) About The Region

The Occitanie is the 2nd largest region (by area) in south-central France and in recent years I have spent more and more time here. In the north section of the region, one can visit the famous perched village, Rocamadour, or descend into Gouffre de Padirac which is an immense chasm with an underground river.

In the south section of the Occitanie, one can ride a bike along the Canal du Midi, explore the Cathar fortresses, or visit the fortress at Carcassonne. There’s also much to explore in the magnificent Pyrénées mountains where you can take the Petit Train Jaune (Little Yellow Train), One can also visit the Aveyron and indulge in Roquefort Cheese or see the Millau Viaduct, the tallest bridge in the world. Also very popular in this region is one of my favourite sites, the Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Check out my 2 month trip where much time was spent in the Occitanie: Trip #33

(b) Aude Department

Carcassonne: Apartment With Terrace in Carcassonne

This apartment was very conveniently located, within walking distance of old and new Carcassonne. There was a spacious living room with a private terrace. When available, there was paid street parking and there was also free parking located in a nearby lot. For prices, check here: Carcassonne Apartment

(c) Hérault Department

Montpellier: Apartment In The Historic Center Of Montpellier

I spent a week in Montpellier attending French immersion classes and loved this 1 bedroom apartment and location: spacious, modern and close to everything. I sat out on the balcony often and did not need a car to visit places or the seaside town of Sete. Trip #23. For prices, check here: Montpellier Apartment

Autignac: Château Autignac

I stayed at Château Autignac for three nights on my way south to the French Pyrénées during my 2 month trip to France. It has absolutely beautiful, modern rooms in a renovated château. Guests are treated to an organic breakfast on the terrace overlooking the spacious backyard that has sitting areas and an infinity pool. The charming town of Pézenas is nearby. For prices, check here: Château Autignac

Marseillan: Les Chambres d’Andrea

Marseillan is a seaside port town located less than an hour southwest of Montpellier. It was the perfect stopover point between Collioure and Marseille. Les Chambers d’Andrea was an excellent Bed and Breakfast accommodation that included breakfast. The room was modern and parking on was on the street right in front of the building. Trip #27. For prices, check here: Les Chambres d’Andrea

(d) Pyrénées-Orientales Department

Prades (near the Little Yellow Train): Maison 225

The town of Prades was the perfect base to visit the French Pyrénées during my 2 month trip. The owners were very hospitable and even packed a lunch for me when I took the Little Yellow Train. There was a complimentary wine/beer in the fridge and free, secured parking (which was a godsend as parking in this town was not easy). My room was large with a terrace. For prices, check here: Maison 225

Collioure: Hotel Le Bon Port

Usually, it is difficult to find reasonably-priced hotels in Collioure, especially in the high season. This hotel was in a super location: overlooking the sea and a short walk into the centre of town. I stayed here in the month of January and it was a very good-a big room with a balcony. Trip #27. For prices, check here: Le Bon Port.

(e) Ariége Department

Tarascon-sur-Ariege: Hotel Terranostra

I chose to stay in Tarascon-sur-Ariège as it was on my way to Carcassonne.  This is a lovely, picturesque town near the famous Grotte de Niaux prehistoric cave. The hotel was connected to a good restaurant and had lovely views of the Ariège River. My room was was comfortable and I’d stay here again. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Hotel Terranostra.

(f) Lot Department

Rocamadour: Relais Amadourien

At the top of Rocamadour, the Relais Amadourien had free parking and the location was perfect. Within walking distance of everything in Rocamadour including the Château de Rocamadour and Cité Réligieuse de Rocamadour (Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Rocamadour). Breakfast was good and the room was comfortable. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Relais Amadourien

(g) Gard Department

Anduze: L’Hotel du Garage des Cevennes

I LOVED this hotel. Modern, quiet, and comfortable with an excellent breakfast and dinner. It is located in the centre of Anduze and parking was free in a nearby parking lot. I wish I could have stayed longer. I’ll be staying here again. Trip #35. For prices, check here: L’Hotel du Garage des Cevennes

Remoulins (near Pont du Gard): La Combe Joseph

I wanted to be located close to Pont du Gard and Remoulins is the closest town. This B and B was quiet, comfortable, and had an outdoor swimming pool. Breakfast was excellent and served on the terrace. It is a short drive into Remoulins if you want to go there for dinner. Trip #35. For prices, check here: La Combe Joseph.

(h) Aveyron Department

Millau: Campanile Millau

I stayed at the Campanile hotel because everything else in Millau was sold out (likely due to the race I was running in); however, it was a good choice. I had an excellent breakfast, the room was air-conditioned, comfortable, and had a kettle. Trip #35. For prices, check here: Campanile Millau.

Saint-Affrique: Hotel Le Pont Neuf

This centrally-located hotel also served dinner. I had a quiet room even though it faced the main street. The bathroom had been renovated and was modern. Free parking was available across the street. It was a great place to stop because it made it easy to visit other areas south of Millau and I was close to Roquefort-sur-Soulzon (12km away) where I visited the cheese caves. Trip #35. For prices, check here: Hotel Le Pont Neuf

(i) Tarn Department

Albi: Hotel Les Pasteliers

This is a really nice hotel in Albi that serves an excellent breakfast. The room and bathroom were small but fine for one night. The hotel is within walking distance of the main sites and parking is available on the street. Trip #35. For prices, check here: Hotel Les Pasteliers

9. Where To Stay in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region

(a) About The Region

The largest region in France (by area) is Nouvelle-Aquitaine which pretty much covers the southwest corner of France. Here you have one of the world’s most famous wine regions and the grand city of Bordeaux. I ran the Marathon du Médoc in this region, a fabulous race where wine is served at every water station.

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine is also a very diverse region when you consider there are seaside towns such as La Rochelle, Ile de Ré, gigantic sand dunes at Arcachon, and prehistoric sites in the Dordogne.

I feel the Dordogne department is one of the best areas to stay in France because there is so much to see and do. It is certainly one of the best places to stay in France especially for families. You have châteaux, lots of outdoor activities, and prehistoric caves.

(b) Gironde Department

Bordeaux: Ibis Styles Bordeaux Gare Saint Jean

I chose this hotel because it was near the train station, so it was very convenient. I wanted to be able to get to the train station quickly the next day. Nothing overly special about this place, but the decor and service are typical of the Ibis group—clean and comfortable. I easily walked to the centre of town. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Ibis Styles Bordeaux Gare Saint Jean

Bordeaux: Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre

This hotel is in a super location in the heart of Bordeaux, with shops and restaurants. The room was equipped with a Nespresso machine and was perfect. Trip #27. For prices, check here: Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre.

Arcachon: Apartment With Balcony

This 1-bedroom apartment was modern with a big kitchen, balcony, and free parking. I just parked my car the entire time and walked into town. Note: It looks like there’s a new owner so I can’t vouch for how it is renting from him. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Arcachon Apartment

Libourne (Gironde Department) : Hotel de la Tour

My room was very spacious and the breakfast and dinner were good. It’s located in a super location by the harbour and down the street from the main square where there’s a weekly market. Trip #35. For prices, check here: Hotel de la Tour.

(c) Charente-Maritime Department

La Rochelle: Hotel Saint Jean d’Acre

Hotel Saint Jean d’Acre is located right around the corner from the harbour and lots of restaurants. The room was air-conditioned, modern, and had a kettle and coffee maker. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Hotel Saint Jean d’Acre

(d) Dordogne Department

Sarlat-la-Canéda: Apartment

In the centre of the town of Sarlat is this nicely furnished apartment. The bedroom is in an alcove so it’s “almost” a one-bedroom (without a door). The living room is large as is the bathroom, and the kitchen has a table and chairs in the room, but no curtains on the kitchen windows. Parking was not too far away and free. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Sarlat Apartment.

Beynac-et-Cazenac: Apartment

The host was very friendly and helpful. I had a large studio apartment with 2 ceiling fans. Early in the morning from my terrace, I could see hot air balloons would fly by over the Dordogne River. There was a sofa and kitchen table and a comfortable bed. Even though it was a very hot summer when I stayed, the apartment was cool during the night and the owner brought me another fan. The apartment was also equipped with a washing machine. Trip #33. For prices, check here: Beynac-et-Cazenac Apartment

10. Where To Stay in Grand Est Region

(a) About The Region

It’s been many years since I visited the Alsace, which is part of the Grand Est region.  I stayed in the town of Andlau and was able to visit many picturesque towns such as Nancy, Strasbourg, Riquewihr, and Colmar. This area of eastern France has a strong German influence, so you’ll easily find sauerkraut and sausages, and also Pain d’épices (spice bread or cake) and champagne in Epernay.

(b) Bas-Rhin Department

Andlau: Apartment

My friend and I rented this 2-bedroom apartment that is part of a larger house. (We had a separate entrance and private parking). It was spacious and clean with a separate kitchen, dining area, and sitting room. We had access to the pool and the best part was that it was right in the town of Andlau, which had a number of restaurants and was in the perfect location to tour the Alsace region. Trip #10. For prices, check here: Andlau Apartment

11. Where To Stay in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Region

(a) About The Region

The Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region is located just south of Paris. During my Burgundy bike tour, we visited the UNESCO Heritage site, the Abbey of Fontenay and many Burgundy vineyards near Dijon and Beaune. More recently I travelled in this area to visit Château de Guédelon.

(b) Niève Department

Saint-Amand-en-Puisaye: La Bicoque en Puisaye

I wanted a nice place to stay that was near Château de Guédelon and this B and B was perfect. It was very quiet and comfortable with a great breakfast and was near a very good restaurant. You need a car to get here. Trip #35. For prices, check here: La Bicoque en Puisaye

C. Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In France

I hope this post has given you some insight into how each region of France might appeal to you. I can’t recommend the “best part of France to visit” because they are each unique and the French cuisine and architecture vary from region to region.

There is also no “best place to stay” in Paris or in France because we all have different tastes and budgets. The properties I have shared are the only ones I would stay at again…in a heartbeat. I hope you’ll check them out and let me know what you think should you decide to stay at one.

Continue Your Search With….

TRAVEL RESOURCES
Booking.com and Expedia: are the companies I use for finding accommodations.
VRBO: is super for booking apartments and houses. 
AutoEurope: is the only car rental supplier that I will use–with the best prices, and they will refund the difference if the price goes down. 
Trainline: offers an easy way to book train tickets.
Get Your Guide and Viator: Both offer tours, city cards, tickets, airport pickups, and so many other things you’ll need at your destination.
Orange SIM Card-this is the company I use when I want a physical SIM card
Orange e-SIM and Airalo e-SIM-both companies offer e-SIMS and get great reviews

Booking

Booking.com

If you have any places that you’d highly recommend, please let me know. I’d love to check them out.

Pin to your favourite board on Pinterest

Google and the Google logo are registered trademarks of Google LLC, used with permission