22 Stunning Walled Cities in France to Explore

Last updated on September 18th, 2024 at 12:16 pm

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Are you a history lover looking to discover the BEST walled cities in France to visit?

France is full of historic villages, ramparts and chateaux that still look as they did hundreds of years ago.

Many of these walled cities and towns have seen fierce battles, been conquered and then won back again and have fascinating tales to tell.

Living in the Charente region of Southwest France, I’m only a short drive from one of these old walled cities that dates back to Roman times.

And walking through the cobbled streets, you can almost hear the knights of old on horseback charging through to get to the castle.

Climbing over the ramparts, you get a magnificent view of the countryside and an understanding of why these cities were built the way they were.

So let’s dive in and discover some beautiful walled cities in France for you to add to your list.

22 Stunning Walled Cities in France to Explore

No 1. Cité de Carcassonne (Occitanie)

The concrete bust of Lady Carcas on a wall at Carcassonne

Carcassonne is probably the most famous walled city in France and with good reason. Simply put, it’s stunning. I’ve been several times, and it still takes my breath away.

My favourite place to stay is Hotel de la Cité, in the heart of the old city with amazing views across Carcassonne. But there are also some great camping and glamping spots close by too if you prefer to be nearer to nature.

Perched on top of a hill, it was strategically built to be able to see the enemy approaching from far away.

The double-walled fortifications of La Cité with 52 towers span nearly 3 kilometres. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ramparts and fairy-tale appearance, often described as one of France’s architectural marvels.

The legendary figure of Dame Carcas, who, according to legend, saved the city from a siege through clever trickery, sits upon Porte Narbonnaise, one of the four gates leading into the city.

MUST see things in Carcassonne

La Cité de Carcassonne: Explore the iconic walled city, with its narrow cobbled streets and medieval charm.
Château Comtal and Ramparts: Visit the Count’s Castle and the extensive ramparts for a journey back in time.
Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus: Marvel at the Basilica’s stunning stained glass and Gothic architecture.
Carcassonne’s Lower City (Bastida Saint-Louis): Discover the charm of the Bastide, the lower city, with its bustling markets, traditional shops, and the distinct southern French atmosphere.

No 2. La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime)

A tranquil marina in La Rochelle, France, where a multitude of sailboats are moored in calm turquoise waters. In the background stand the iconic towers guarding the entrance to the old port, under a vast blue sky dotted with wispy clouds, reflecting the city's historical significance and its maritime heritage.

La Rochelle is in the Charente Maritime in Southwest France on the Atlantic coast and is known as La Ville Blanche (the White City).

It’s only a 90-minute drive from where I live in the Charente, and somewhere we go when we want to enjoy being on the beach.

The impressive fortifications at La Rochelle include Saint-Nicolas Tower, Chain Tower, and Lantern Tower, dating back to the medieval era. These towers not only guarded the city but also served as lighthouses and prisons.

La Rochelle holds a significant place in the history of the Knights Templar. It was one of their key strongholds and was pivotal during their period of influence.

The city’s port was crucial for the Templar fleet, and it is believed that during the persecution of the Templars in 1307, many fled from La Rochelle with their treasure.

MUST see things in La Rochelle

Medieval Towers: Explore the historical Saint-Nicolas Tower and Chain Tower, remnants of La Rochelle’s formidable past.
La Rochelle Aquarium: It’s one of Europe’s largest private aquariums, showcasing spectacular marine life.
Old Port: A picturesque spot, ideal for strolling and soaking up the city’s maritime charm.
Trip to Fort Boyard: Embark on a boat trip to see the famous Fort Boyard, known for its unique architecture and role in French naval history.
Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a serene sunset cruise around La Rochelle, offering stunning views of the city and coastline.

No 3. Angouleme (Charente)

A huge cartoon wall mural in colour on an old building in the French town of Angouleme depicting a man and a woman with a plane going over

Angouleme is the closest walled city to where I live in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. And it’s also home to Isabella of Angouleme, who married King John of England, the Magna Carta guy.

Angoulême sits on a plateau overlooking the Charente River with panoramic views over the countryside. Old ramparts encircle it that you can walk along, offering a glimpse into its past as a fortified stronghold.

The Hotel de Ville gives tours that give you a great insight into the history of Angouleme, which can be traced back to the Iron Age.

MUST see things in Angouleme

Hotel de Ville: Don’t miss a visit to the Hotel de Ville, a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture housed in the former Counts of Angoulême’s castle.
The City Walls: Take a walk along the remnants of the ancient city walls, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Saint-Pierre Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning Romanesque architecture of this historic cathedral.
Comic Strip Museum (Cité Internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l’Image): Explore this unique museum dedicated to the art of comic strips and graphic novels, a nod to Angoulême’s status as the ‘Capital of Comics.’

📍 TOP TIP If you want a great place to eat in Angouleme, I recommend booking a table at Saint Andre, which is next to my favourite wall mural in the city.

No 4. Saint-Malo (Brittany)

Aerial view of Saint-Malo in France, featuring historic buildings within city walls on a peninsula surrounded by the emerald waters of the sea, with a sandy beach along the coastline.

Now, we’re moving north to Brittany and the coastal town of Saint-Malo, a bustling portside place.

It was once notorious for privateering and is now a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and cobblestone streets.

The city’s ramparts date back to the 12th century, giving the town its medieval charm. The Château de Saint-Malo and the Solidor Tower were rebuilt after World War II and offer stunning views of the English Channel.

Jacques Cartier, known for claiming what is now Canada for France, was born here in 1491, marking the history of privateering and exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries in the town.

MUST see things in Saint-Malo

Château de Saint-Malo: Explore this historic castle, now home to the town museum, showcasing the city’s maritime past.
Solidor Tower: A visit to this imposing tower offers a glimpse into the city’s history of seafaring and exploration.
Grand Bé and Petit Bé: Discover these small islands accessible at low tide, with Grand Bé being the final resting place of the French writer Chateaubriand.
Plage du Sillon: Stroll along this picturesque beach, famous for its long stretch of sand and scenic views.

No 5. Dinan (Brittany)

Cobbled street in Dinan, Brittany, lined with traditional half-timbered houses and overflowing greenery, leading towards an archway in the distance, under a soft cloudy sky.

We’re staying in Brittany for the moment, and travelling to Dinan, where the majority of the walls surround the old city. Some of the newer parts aren’t part of the ramparts, but that shouldn’t stop you from going.

Sitting above the Rance River, it’s another one of the gorgeous medieval towns with half-timbered buildings and cobblestone streets.

Dinan is often associated with the ducal era of Brittany, particularly with the reign of Duke John IV in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. The town played a significant role in the Hundred Years’ War.

MUST see things in Dinan

Château de Dinan: Explore this imposing castle, which now houses the town’s history museum.
Tour de l’Horloge: Climb the iconic Clock Tower for panoramic views of Dinan and beyond.
Rue du Jerzual: Wander down this historic street, lined with artisan shops and medieval buildings, leading down to the port.
Port of Dinan: Visit the picturesque port area, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a boat trip along the Rance River.

No 6. Avignon (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)

The historic Papal Palace in Avignon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, viewed from across the Rhône River, with its imposing fortified walls and towers against a clear blue sky.

Moving south now, not far from Provence, is the well-preserved walled city of Avignon. Home to seven successive popes, and was the seat of the Papacy in the 14th century.

The Palais des Papes testifies to Avignon’s importance during this time, and the city is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and historical significance.

MUST see things in Avignon

Palais des Papes: Explore the largest Gothic palace in the world, once the residence of popes and a symbol of the Church’s influence in the Western world.
Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon): Visit the famous medieval bridge, known for the French nursery rhyme “Sur le Pont d’Avignon.”
Avignon Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms): Admire this Romanesque cathedral, home to the mausoleum of Pope John XXII.
Place de l’Horloge (Clock Tower Square): Experience the lively atmosphere of this central square, surrounded by cafes and shops, and often filled with street performers.

No 7. Boulogne Sur Mer (Hauts-de-France)

Close-up view of the white lighthouse with a green top at the harbor of Boulogne-sur-Mer, against a blue sky with a hint of clouds, and the sea in the foreground.

We’re staying in northern France but moving regions to the coast near the English Channel.

It’s one of the country’s largest fishing ports with a lovely medieval old town, sat on a hill with ancient ramparts going around.

The old town’s fortifications, dating back to the Roman period and later reinforced in the Middle Ages, include the 13th-century Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne.

The town is historically linked to Napoleon Bonaparte, who amassed his Grande Armée here in the early 19th century for a planned invasion of England.

MUST see things in Boulogne Sur Mer

Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer: Explore this medieval castle, now housing a museum with a diverse collection of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian artefacts.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne: Admire the basilica’s impressive architecture and the panoramic views from its dome.
Nausicaá National Sea Centre: Visit one of the largest public aquariums in Europe, showcasing marine biodiversity.
Boulogne Eastern Cemetery: Pay respects at this Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery, reflecting the city’s role in both World Wars.

No 8. Saint-Paul de Vence (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)

Narrow, ascending cobblestone alleyway in Saint-Paul de Vence, lined with historic stone buildings adorned with green plants and hanging lanterns, evoking a sense of quaint medieval charm.

We’re now taking a trip to the picturesque medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, in the hills of the Côte d’Azur in southeastern France.

Famous for its art galleries, boutiques, and winding cobblestone streets, this fortified village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Provençal countryside.

The walls surrounding the city are well-preserved 16th-century ramparts commissioned by King Francis I.

But that’s not the only reason to visit. If you’re a lover of art, then you might be interested to know that Marc Chagall lived here during the last years of his life and is also buried here.

MUST see things in Saint-Paul de Vence

Fondation Maeght: Discover an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art in this renowned museum.
Saint-Paul de Vence Cemetery: Visit the final resting place of Marc Chagall, a testament to the village’s artistic legacy.
Local Art Galleries: Stroll through the village’s many galleries, showcasing works from local and international artists.
Colombe d’Or: Dine or visit this iconic hotel and restaurant, famous for its art collection and historical significance in the art community.

No 9. Villefranche De Conflent (Pyrénées-Orientales)

Ancient stone bridge and fortified walls of Villefranche-de-Conflent, nestled in a lush valley with a gentle river flowing underneath, framed by the greenery and mountains of rural France.

Time for a quick stop in the Pyrenees mountains of southern France in the historic walled town, of Villefranche-de-Conflent.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and sits at the confluence of several valleys.

The town’s impressive fortifications, designed by Louis XIV’s military engineer Vauban in the 17th century, also have an extensive network of underground passages (Les Grandes Canalettes). Who doesn’t love a secret passage?

Vauban’s redesign of the town’s fortifications in the 17th century played a crucial role in the defense of the French-Spanish border.

MUST see things in Villefranche De Conflent

Fort Liberia: Accessible by a steep hike or a 4×4 vehicle, this fort offers panoramic views and a glimpse into military history.
Les Grandes Canalettes: Discover the extensive network of underground caves and passages beneath the town.
Medieval Streets: Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and traditional buildings.
Saint-Jacques Church: Visit this 11th-century Romanesque church, known for its unique Catalan frescoes and architecture.

No 10. Besançon (Bourgogne-Franche-Comté)

Imposing citadel of Besançon, perched on a rugged cliff, dominating the landscape against a clear blue sky, with lush green foliage accentuating the ancient fortification's stone walls.

Besançon is a historic city in eastern France’s Franche-Comté region, where the Comte cheese comes from and sits in a loop of the Doubs River.

Like Villefranche, Besançon also has a history related to Vauan, the royal engineer. He designed the Citadelle de Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a fortress housing several museums and a zoo.

A famous resident of the city was Victor Hugo, the renowned French writer and poet, born here in 1802.

MUST see things in Besançon

Citadelle de Besançon: Explore this imposing fortress, offering stunning views of the city and river.
Museum of Time (Musée du Temps): Discover the city’s watchmaking heritage in the Palais Granvelle.
Victor Hugo’s Birthplace: Visit the house where Victor Hugo was born, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Saint-Jean Cathedral: Admire the cathedral’s Renaissance architecture and the Astronomical Clock, a marvel of horology.

No 11. Provins (Ile-de-France)

The medieval Cesar Tower in Provins, France, rises majestically behind rustic limestone buildings, with a streetlamp in the foreground, set against a serene blue sky with soft clouds.

Only an hour southeast of Paris, this is the perfect day trip if you fancy stepping into the scene of a vintage postcard.

The medieval walls are well-preserved, and if you close your eyes and let your imagination wander, you can just imagine the bustling trade of people coming through these walls into the busy market town.

There are 22 towers in total, and Tour César (Caesar Tower) leads to a series of underground passageways. I can’t help but wonder if many of these were escape routes for priests during the Wars of Religion.

Provins is most famous for its medieval fairs, in particular, the Champagne Fairs held twice a year in May and November.

These fairs contributed significantly to the economic and cultural development of the region.

MUST see things in Provins

Tour César (Caesar Tower): Explore this iconic 12th-century tower, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Underground Tunnels: Discover the extensive network of medieval tunnels beneath the town, a unique glimpse into its past.
La Grange aux Dîmes: Visit this former tithe barn, now a museum depicting medieval trade and life in Provins.
Rose Garden of Provins: Stroll through the beautiful rose garden, a nod to the town’s symbol and a source of famous rose-infused products.

No 12. Brouage (Charente-Maritime)

Ornate stone doorway of the historical fortress in Brouage, Charente-Maritime, featuring a classical pediment with a coat of arms and weathered masonry, contrasted by a bright blue wooden door slightly ajar.

We’re back in the Charente-Maritime on the Atlantic coast in the fortified village of Brouage.

Once a significant port on the Bay of Biscay, it’s known for its rich history in salt and maritime trade. The village has star-shaped ramparts, a hallmark of its military significance during the 17th century.

These fortifications, including bastions and watchtowers, were designed by Vauban, Louis XIV’s famous military engineer who keeps popping up.

Brouage gained historical prominence as the birthplace of Samuel de Champlain, the founder of Quebec. This connection ties the village not only to French history but also to the early colonial history of Canada.

MUST see things in Brouage

Samuel de Champlain Museum: Explore the museum dedicated to the life of the founder of Quebec and the village’s connection to Canada.
Halle aux Vivres: Visit this former storehouse, now converted into an exhibition space for local art and history.
Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul Church: Admire the architecture of this historical church, a centrepiece of the village.
Salt Marshes: Take a walk around the surrounding salt marshes, an integral part of Brouage’s history in salt production.

No 13. Vannes (Brittany)

Vividly detailed close-up of traditional half-timbered houses in Vannes, Brittany, with intricate wood framing and a decorative hanging lantern, set against an overcast sky.

Once again, we’re back in Brittany, this time on the Gulf of Morbihan in the picturesque city of Vannes.

Dating back to the Roman era, you’ll find a beautiful marina, medieval streets, and well-preserved half-timbered houses. Its ramparts and fortifications formed part of a Medieval stronghold.

Vannes is known for its food, particularly crêpes, galettes and cider, like much of Brittany.

MUST see things in Vannes

Vannes Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Vannes): Admire this Gothic cathedral, a symbol of the city’s religious heritage.
Old Town: Stroll through the charming medieval streets lined with colourful half-timbered houses.
Château de l’Hermine: Visit the castle, now a cultural venue, once the residence of the Dukes of Brittany.
Gulf of Morbihan: Take a boat trip or enjoy the scenic walks along the gulf, known for its natural beauty and birdlife.

No 14. Mont Saint Michel (Normandy)

Twilight view of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, illuminated against the dusk sky, with its Gothic architecture and spire standing out above the surrounding bay and causeway.

More a walled island than a city, we’re moving on to Mont Saint-Michel, an iconic island commune in Normandy.

It sits on a rocky islet amid vast sandbanks exposed to powerful tides and is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.

Sitting right at the top is the spectacular Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

The island’s medieval fortifications and the abbey are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting visitors worldwide. The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, and the ramparts, provide stunning views of the surrounding bay.

Mont Saint-Michel is closely linked to the legend of Archangel Michael, who, according to tradition, inspired the founding of the abbey in the 8th century.

The island has been a strategic stronghold and a major pilgrimage site throughout history, particularly during the Middle Ages.

MUST see things in Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey: Explore the abbey’s awe-inspiring architecture and its history as a medieval pilgrimage centre.
La Grande Rue: Stroll through this narrow street, lined with quaint shops, medieval houses, and eateries.
Tidal Experience: Witness the dramatic tide changes around the island, a natural phenomenon that has shaped its history.
Musée Historique: Visit this museum to learn more about the island’s history, including its time as a prison during the French Revolution.

No 15. Aigues-Morte (Occitanie)

Aerial view of the pink salt flats of Aigues-Mortes in Occitanie, with the fortified town and meandering waterways in the background, set against a vast landscape leading to the horizon.

Aigues-Mortes, a pretty medieval town in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France, is uniquely situated in the Camargue’s marshlands. It was originally a port on the Mediterranean, though it’s now several kilometres inland.

The town’s extensive 13th-century fortifications include the impressive Tower of Constance, which was constructed under the reign of King Louis IX (Saint Louis) as a launching point for the Crusades.

The ramparts encircle the entire town, providing a complete medieval defensive structure that’s rare to still see in Europe.

Aigues-Mortes is famous for producing ‘Fleur de Sel’, a high-quality sea salt known for its delicate flavour and texture. This salt is hand-harvested from the very top layer of the salt pans, which are often vividly coloured, ranging from pink to orange.

This is due to the presence of certain algae and microorganisms that thrive in the high-salinity environment.

MUST see things in Aigues-Morte

Tour de Constance: Explore this iconic tower, known for its role as a state prison, particularly for Protestant women during the Wars of Religion.
Place Saint-Louis: Visit the central square, featuring a statue of Saint Louis, and surrounded by lively cafes and shops.
Église Notre-Dame des Sablons: Admire this Gothic church, the oldest in the town, known for its beautiful stained glass windows.
Salt Marshes: Discover the nearby salt pans, famous for producing Camargue salt, a product of the region’s unique ecology.

No 16. Langres (Haute-Marne)

The baroque bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint-Mammès in Langres, Haute-Marne, with its ornate stonework and clock face, stands tall above surrounding rooftops against a cloudy sky.

Langres is in the northeastern part of France in the Haute-Marne department and sits on a limestone plateau with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

fortifications, some of the most extensive in France, date back to various periods from the Roman era to the 19th century. The 3.5 km-long ramparts, with 12 towers and 7 gates, were a strategic stronghold during the Franco-Prussian War.

It’s also the birthplace of the Enlightenment philosopher Denis Diderot, a major figure in European intellectual history.

MUST see things in Langres

Cathedral of Saint-Mammès: Admire the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Maison des Lumières Denis Diderot: Visit the museum dedicated to Langres’ most famous son, celebrating his contributions to philosophy and the Enlightenment.
Tower of Navarre and Diderot: Explore this well-preserved tower, part of the city’s fortifications, offering insights into the military history of Langres.

No 17. Neuf-Brisach, (Alsace)

Well-preserved fortification walls of Neuf-Brisach in Alsace, with lush green grass at the base and atop the walls, under a bright blue sky with soft white clouds.

Neuf-Brisach, located in the Alsace region near the French-German border, is a unique example of late 17th-century military architecture.

This fortified town is another one designed by Vauban, the famous French military engineer, and is distinguished by its almost perfect octagonal layout.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and construction began in 1699 under the orders of King Louis XIV, following the destruction of the town’s predecessor, Breisach, during the Nine Years’ War.

MUST see things in Neuf-Brisach

Vauban’s Fortifications: Walk around the town’s perimeter to appreciate the complexity and ingenuity of Vauban’s design.
Historical Museum (Musée Vauban): Visit this museum to learn more about the town’s history and Vauban’s architectural genius.
Nearby Rhine River: Enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational activities along the Rhine, marking the border between France and Germany.

No 18. Domme (Dordogne)

Ancient stone gatehouse of Domme, Dordogne, with its arched entrance and remnants of towers, standing resolute under a clear blue sky.

Domme, located in the scenic Dordogne region of southwestern France, is a bastide town with breathtaking views over the Dordogne River and valley.

Founded in the 13th century, this hilltop town is a remarkable example of medieval urban planning and is classified as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (Most Beautiful Villages of France).

Domme’s fortifications, including its ramparts and gates, reflect its history as a bastide town. The town’s strategic position on top of the cliff offers a defensive advantage, as well as panoramic vistas.

The cave system beneath the main square, used for shelter during wars, was also a prison for the Knights Templar in the 14th century.

MUST see things in Domme

Medieval Gates and Ramparts: Explore the preserved fortifications, including the Porte des Tours, which once served as a Templar prison.
Domme Cave (Grotte de Domme): Discover the impressive underground caves beneath the town, featuring stalactites and stalagmites.
Historic Town Centre: Wander through the charming streets of Domme, lined with beautiful old stone houses and quaint shops.
Local Market: Experience the vibrant local market, offering regional specialities like truffles, foie gras, and local wines.

No 19. Talmont-sur-Gironde (Charente-Maritime)

Sunset view at Talmont-sur-Gironde, Charente-Maritime, featuring the historic church perched on a fortified cliff overlooking the sea, with the sun dipping below the horizon.

We’re back in my stomping ground of the Poitou-Charente region of Southwest France. Talmont-sur-Gironde is a picturesque village overlooking the Gironde estuary with a layout that remains much as it was in medieval times.

Famous for its charming white-washed houses and blue shutters, just like Domme above it’s classified as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France”.

While Talmont does not have extensive ramparts like some other medieval towns, its strategic position and the remains of fortifications reflect its past importance.

Founded by the King of England and Duke of Aquitaine, Edward I, in the 13th century, Talmont-sur-Gironde has a history tied to the Plantagenet rule.

MUST see things in Talmont-sur-Gironde

Sainte-Radegonde Church: Explore this iconic cliff-top church, known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture and stunning estuary views.
Gironde Estuary: Enjoy the serene beauty of the estuary, ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
Vineyards and Wineries: Explore the surrounding countryside, which is part of the Cognac and Bordeaux wine regions, for wine tasting and vineyard tours.

No 20. Beaumont-du-Périgord (Dordogne)

Traditional stone windmill with wooden blades in Beaumont-du-Périgord, set against a backdrop of bare trees and a cloudy winter sky.

Beaumont-du-Périgord in the Dordogne is another classic example of a bastide town, a fortified town built during the Middle Ages.

Founded in the 13th century, it’s full of stunning medieval architecture, including a central market square surrounded by arcades and traditional stone houses.

While much of the original fortifications have been altered or dismantled over the centuries, remnants of the town’s ramparts and the fortified church, Saint-Laurent & Saint-Front, still convey its medieval heritage.

The church, in particular, with its defensive structures, was designed to offer refuge during times of conflict.

MUST see things in Beaumont-du-Périgord

Fortified Church of Saint-Laurent & Saint-Front: Admire the unique combination of religious and military architecture in this historic church.
Medieval Market Square: Explore the heart of the bastide, lined with arcades and traditional buildings, reflecting the town’s medieval layout.
Bastide Museum (Musée de la Bastide): Learn about the history and development of Bastide towns in the region.

No 21. Guérande (Pays de la Loire)

Sunset over the salt marshes of Guérande, Pays de la Loire, with vibrant pink and orange hues reflecting in the water, creating a stunning contrast with the silhouettes of the surrounding landscape.

Guérande is a medieval town in the Loire-Atlantique region of western France, near the Atlantic coast and the Brière Regional Natural Park.

It’s famous for its salt marshes, which have been in use since the Iron Age.

The town has extensive medieval ramparts, which are among the best-preserved in Brittany.

Visitors can walk along these walls and see the fortified gates, towers, and the adjoining Collégiale Saint-Aubin, a Gothic-style church.

MUST see things in Guérande

Collégiale Saint-Aubin: Explore this impressive Gothic church located in the heart of the town.
Guérande Salt Marshes: Discover the traditional salt pans and learn about the age-old salt harvesting techniques still used today.
Musée de la Porte Saint-Michel: Visit this museum situated in one of the town’s gates to delve deeper into Guérande’s rich history.

No 22. Bergheim, (Alsace)

Two tall houses side by side with three window going across each level with shutter and window boxes with pink flowers. A water fountain with greenery stands in front of them

Bergheim is part of the Alsace wine route in northeastern France and is surrounded by vineyards.

This picturesque village encapsulates the region’s unique blend of French and German cultural influences with half-timbered houses.

The town’s impressive ramparts, dating from the 14th century, are remarkably intact and reflect Bergheim’s strategic importance in the past.

The Witches Tower (La Tour des Sorcières) is a notable feature, a reminder of the town’s darker history of witch trials in the 16th century.

MUST see things in Bergheim

Witches Tower (La Tour des Sorcières): Discover the history of the witch trials at this historical tower, now a small museum.
Half-Timbered Houses: Wander the streets, lined with beautifully preserved traditional Alsatian buildings.
Alsace Wine Route: Take a tour of the surrounding vineyards, sampling the region’s famous wines.
Saint Ulrich Church: Visit this historic church, known for its remarkable Gothic and Romanesque architecture

FAQS: French Walled Cities

What is the walled city by the sea in France?

The walled city by the sea in France is Saint-Malo, located in Brittany. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, Saint-Malo is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its history as a fortified pirate stronghold.

What is the walled city near Provence, France?

Close to Provence, France, the notable walled city is Avignon. Famous for its Papal Palace, Avignon boasts impressive medieval fortifications. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in cultural heritage and history.

What is the walled city in Nice, France?

Nice, France does not have a traditional walled city, but the closest equivalent is the Old Town (Vieux Nice). This area, characterised by narrow streets and historic buildings, reflects the city’s rich history and Mediterranean charm.

What is the most famous walled city in France?

The most famous walled city in France is Carcassonne, located in the south of France. Carcassonne is renowned for its medieval citadel, La Cité, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring extensive ramparts and well-preserved watchtowers.

Final Thoughts on Medieval Walled Cities in France

As you can see, there are a plethora of French walled cities, each with its own story to tell.

If I had to pick just one walled city in France to visit, it would have to be Carcassonne. Having read many books on this city and visited several times, it’s still the stand out that I keep wanting to go back to time and time again.