UNESCO Sites in France

Globally recognised as the “Land of Love and Wine”, almost everyone has France on their bucket list. Many go there to see the prominent Eiffel Tower, swim in the sparkling Côte d’Azur or enjoy delicious French delicacies. However, there is more to this country than meets the eye. France is third in the world after Italy and Germany in terms of the most UNESCO sites. The country has not less than 49 protected sites and yet a large number of them fly under the tourist radar.

Without further ado, here’s a list of all must-see UNESCO sites in France sorted by regions you ought to discover on your next visit!

Occitanie (6)

Carcassonne and Canal du Midi (2)

One of the biggest and best preserved fortified cities in Europe, Carcassonne has settled itself in the valley of the Aude River between the Pyrenees and the Massif Central. Surrounded by vineyards, mountains, sweet flowers and spicy herbs, the place offers not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage sites. The fortified settlement has existed since the pre-Roman period and displays a perfect example of a massive defence system. That includes the castle with its surrounding buildings, streets and a Gothic cathedral. Other than the medieval city, there is the Canal du Midi, a heritage site constructed at the behest of Louis XIV. Today, the canal is known for river cruises and houseboats.

Episcopal City of Albi

Famed by its monumental and well-preserved architectural ensemble, the Episcopal City of Albi is located on the banks of the Tarn River, one of the longest in Europe. The city is structured around the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and its Episcopal fortress-palace. Both structures stand out because of their unique fired brick used in the Middle Ages that changes colour depending on the light. Shades of red, pink and ochre complete the look of the medieval city of Albi, built for both defensive and spiritual purposes back in the 13th century. Its Gothic-style cathedral is the most stunning and authentic monumental symbol in southern France.

The Causses and the Cévennes

Surrounded by vast areas of deep valleys and limestone slopes, the Causses and the Cévennes are famed for their cultural landscape of Mediterranean agro-pastoralism. Shaped over three millennia, the mountainous landscape stands out for its cultural traditions, distinctive social structures and local breeds of sheep. Since the 12th century, the tradition still lives on in its numerous farms, settlements, fields, water management sites and drailles. Counted among the most breathtaking national parks in France, the Cévennes National Park is adorned with tree-filled mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Pont du Gard

Enabling the 50 km long aqueduct to cross the Gard River, the Pont du Gard was built shortly before the Christian era by Roman architects and hydraulic engineers. This artistic masterpiece was created to supply the city of Nîmes, the ancient Roman colony of Nemausus. Rising up to 50 metres, the three-storey aqueduct bridge is set on a rocky base surrounded by a sparkling river that enhances its imposing appearance. Under the gentle and symmetrical tapering of the arches, the cold stone still has visible marks of the quarrymen’s and stonecutters’ tools. Besides that, various figures and letters that show their position in the assembly scheme can also be spotted.

Pyrénées and Mont Perdu

Adorned with exceptional meadows, lakes, caves and forests, the mountainous landscape of Pyrénées and Mont Perdu spans the national borders of France and Spain. The site includes two of Europe’s largest and deepest canyons on the Spanish side and three massive cirque walls on the French. Its mountain slopes bear witness to the human settlement that dates back to the Upper Paleolithic period, around 40,000 – 10,000 BC. Bordering two national parks, the site is surrounded by the entire Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in Spain and the eastern part of Pyrénées Occidentales National Park in France.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (5)

Decorated Cave of Pont-d’Arc

Located on a limestone plateau of the Ardèche River, the Decorated Cave of Pont-d’Arc is 36,000 years old, making it the oldest currently known decorated cave in the world! It contains the earliest-known and best-preserved figurative drawings dating all the way back to the Aurignacian period. The walls show more than 1,000 of anthropomorphic and animal motifs displaying different techniques like shading, painting, engraving and three-dimensionality. The authenticity of the cave can be established by its pristine state and condition. Moreover, the cave was rediscovered in 1994 after the rock that blocked the entry to the cave was permanently removed.

Vichy 

Built around the ancient thermal waters of the city, Vichy is the only French town listed in UNESCO’s “The Great Spa Towns of Europe”. Nicknamed the “Queen of Springs”, this spa city is filled with many 19th-century lavish villas and grand parks. The Neo-Venetian, Flemish, Gothic, Classical and Art nouveau-style villas served as an ideal gateway to the world. Among various public gardens created during the reign of Napoleon III, Parc Napoleon III is particularly noteworthy for hosting 138 different plant species. Vichy is counted among one of Europe’s leading cosmetic and skincare brands after being bought by L’Oréal. Moreover, it’s globally accepted as a place of health, nutrition, well-being and beauty.

Lyon 

Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC, the historical site of Lyon played an important role in Europe’s political, cultural and economic development. Dotted with many fine historic buildings from all periods, this ancient site reveals all stages of its long-term development. From the antique Lugdunum and Renaissance dwellings of Vieux-Lyon to the historic 19th-century slopes of Croix-Rousse, Lyon offers it all. Admire the colourful murals at the Gothic-Renaissance Saint Jean Cathedral, get lost in the secret passageways in the Traboules or explore Fourvière, the symbol of Lyon. The famous symbol was built to honour the Virgin Mary who saved Lyon from the Black Death, a great pandemic that ravaged Europe in the 14th century.

Loire Valley 

Situated between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes, the Loire Valley is a 200 km long cultural landscape containing historic towns and villages with great architectural monuments. Mainly tracing back to the Renaissance and the Age of the Enlightenment, the site stretches along the Loire River. The breathtaking landscape is well-known for the Troglodyte Caves that were used as a place of residence in the past, carved into tufa limestone cliffs. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the valley was used for international encounters between the Italian Mediterranean, France and Flanders. As a former seat of royal power, the valley boasts exquisite castles of Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Blois and Azay-le-Rideau that still look as stunning as ever.

Tectonic hotspot Chaîne des Puys and the Limagne fault

Created after the formation of the Alps 35 million years ago, the site boasts the unique Limagne fault tectonic area and 80 young volcanoes of Chaîne des Puys. Demonstrating a fundamental phenomenon in the Earth’s history, this enormous site creates continental break-up rifts several thousands of kilometres long. The first eruption took place 95,000 years ago, while the most recent one was 8,600 years ago. Prepare to discover the Temple of Mercury, the Clermont Observatory of Terrestrial Physics and a wide choice of activities at the striking summit. Since visitors can climb to the top either on foot or aboard the panoramic train, adrenaline junkies will surely find this place a treat!

Nouvelle-Aquitaine (5)

Bordeaux

As a historic city of outstanding urban and architectural structures, Bordeaux is the second city in France by the number of protected buildings. Besides being the location where 18th-century architecture meets modern French chic, Bordeaux is also listed among the best wine regions in Europe! Once in the shadow of bigger cities, today this port town boasts an amazing riverfront park, a sleek tramway and a pedestrian-friendly centre. The antique facades witness cruise ships and riverboats on the Garonne River. Additionally, make sure to enjoy the breathtaking Port of the Moon, the crescent-shaped harbour that crosses the city.

Saint-Émilion

As another charming medieval village, Saint-Émilion is filled with world-famous wineries, great monuments and beautiful architecture. The place owes its name to a miracle-performing monk from Brittany named Émilion, who made the place a great religious centre. From the 9th to the 19th century, men had to mine the soil to standardise the whole architectural look of Saint-Émilion, as well as a few other places in the region. Consequently, the 200 kilometres long underground galleries that stretch under the village and its vast vineyard stand as proof of that statement.

Abbey of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe

Rebuilt in the 11th century, the Abbey of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe contains many stunning 11th and 12th-century murals. Known as the Romanesque Sistine Chapel, the ancient abbey was founded during the Carolingian era. The well-preserved murals are an exceptional ensemble of medieval imagery which consists of an immense biblical narrative. Visually evident in all parts of the church, the pictorial presentation is testimony to the art of painting and decor in western Christian medieval civilization. Its Roman architecture is decorated using an entire palette of colours and compositions in order to display elegance and sophistication.

The Cordouan Lighthouse

As the oldest French lighthouse that is still in use today, the Cordouan Lighthouse is a monumental tower that rises from the rocky plateau in the Atlantic Ocean. Ever since it was built in the 17th century, the lighthouse represented a symbol of the glory and power of the King of France. Because of that, it has been dubbed “The Versailles of the Seas” and “The king of lighthouses, the lighthouse of kings”. The site illustrates a time when beacons played an important role as instruments of safety and markers of territory. This masterpiece of maritime signalling is decorated with multiple sculptures, columns and pilasters that reflect antiquity and elegant features of Renaissance mannerism.

Vézère Valley

Dating back to the Palaeolithic times, the Vézère Valley contains 147 prehistoric sites and 25 decorated caves. Interesting from both an ethnological and anthropological viewpoint, the valley is most famous for its numerous cave paintings depicting hunting scenes and more than 100 animal figures. Remarkable for their detail, rich colours and lifelike quality, the paintings were of great importance to the history of prehistoric art, especially those discovered at the Lascaux Cave in 1940. Besides that, the property also consists of multiple funerary places, workshops, exploitation areas for raw materials, habitats and hunting scenes.

Multi-regional sites (5)

The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Paris, Grand Est and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Consisting of 17 different sites in 7 countries, the Architectural Work of Le Corbusier shows the global range of styles an individual architect can achieve. This outstanding contribution to the modern movement is evident in 10 sites in France. From Saint-Dié-des-Vosges to Éveux, these works all had a significant impact on the invention of a new architectural style which marked the beginning of three major trends – Purism, Brutalism and sculptural architecture. Built over a period of a half-century, all of the innovative buildings successfully conveyed new concepts and exhibited a valuable artistic exchange over the years.

Fortifications by Vauban

Nouvelle Aquitaine, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Normandie, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Centre-Val de Loire, Grand Est and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

In the past, the Fortifications of Vauban played a major role in the history of French fortification. Consisting of 12 groups of buildings, the site is made up of numerous citadels, urban bastion walls, mountain and sea forts, as well as their sturdy towers. Bearing witness to the peak of classic fortifications, this property had a significant impact on the universal military architecture of Europe and other continents until the mid-19th century. It illustrates a significant period in the past where many imitations of this fort rose throughout Europe and America. Even today, it stands as a place where military strategy, architecture and construction perfectly unite as one.

Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur 

Encompassing the property of 111 small sites in 6 countries, the Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps include the ancient remains created during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. The settlements were built around 5,000 to 500 BC beside lakes, rivers and wetlands. In France, there are 11 such sites. Further excavations provided insight into life in prehistoric times, including information on their agriculture, animals and culture over the period of more than four millennia. At Lake Bourget, one of the top 10 lakes in France, trading routes for transporting ceramics, metallic material, flint, gold and amber with dugout canoes and wooden wheels were discovered. These sites provide the perfect opportunity to broaden our understanding of human history and see how it all began.

Ancient beech forests of the Carpathians and other parts of Europe

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Grand Est and Occitanie

Including 94 component parts in 18 countries, the ancient beech forests have spread from the Alps, Carpathians and Dinarides to the Mediterranean and Pyrenees. The most fascinating thing to see at these sites is the tree’s adaptability and tolerance to different climates, as well as geographical and physical conditions. Moreover, the only last intact virgin forest is to be found in the Carpathians, where trees can live to a hundred years old. It also provides an important habitat for organisms such as rare birds, mammals, mushrooms and insects. In France, these types of forests can be found at the Chapitre-Petit-Buëch biological strict Reserve, the Massif du Grand Ventron National Nature Reserve and the Massane National Nature Reserve.

Routes of Santiago de Compostela

Nouvelle Aquitaine, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Normandie, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Centre-Val de Loire, Grand Est and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Throughout the Middle Ages, the Routes of Santiago de Compostela served as a major destination for countless thousands of determined pilgrims from all over Europe. Covering nearly 160 km of the route, the pilgrimage to Spain started from four symbolic routes – Paris, Vézelay, Le Puy and Arles. On the way, all participants could observe several important historical monuments heavily influenced by spiritual exercise and the manifestation of faith. In addition, the pilgrimage routes played an important role in religious and cultural exchange and development which led to the birth of new ideas that influenced the world.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (4)

Vézelay

The romantic and remote village of Vézelay will take your breath away with its cobblestone lanes, stone-clad houses and window boxes full of colourful flowers. Counted among the best small towns to visit in France, the place lies 250 km southeast of Paris in northern Burgundy. On a lone hill rising from the forested Yonne plain, you’ll see a Benedictine monastery situated in the centre of the village. The legend says that the relics of Mary Magdalene have been housed in a magnificent Romanesque basilica – a UNESCO site since 1979. Afterwards, Vézelay became an important place of Catholic pilgrimage. 

Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay

Founded in a marshy valley of Bourgogne, the Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay illustrates the perfection of the proportions, the beauty of the wall masonry and impeccable austere architecture. The church, cloister, sleeping quarters, bakery, refectory and its ironwork are still perfectly intact and well-preserved. As one of the oldest industrial buildings in France, the enclosing walls of the monastery depict the ideal of self-sufficiency that was practised daily by the earliest communities of Cistercian monks. Dating back to the 12th century, the building shows the life of Cistercians, so-called White Monks who played an important role in the technological progress of the Middle Ages.

The Great Saltworks of Salins-les-Bains & the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans

Located near Besançon, the saltworks of Salins-les-Bains and Arc-et-Senans represent outstanding salt production properties. Along with hosting several cultural events and exhibitions in recent years, the sites were also recognised for their remarkable architecture and vast history. The Great Saltworks of Salins-les-Bains were built near the Chaux Forest to ensure its constant supply of wood for fuel. On top of the complex 13th-century underground gallery, the site was connected to the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans with a 21 km long pipeline to carry the brine between the two sites. Additionally, the Royal Saltworks demonstrates in great detail how the salt workers collected the “White Gold”. The spa continues to be used even to this day.

The Climats of the Burgundy Vineyard

Shaped by 2,000 years of history, the Climats of the Burgundy Vineyard stretch over 230 kilometres in three departments. Ever since the Middle Ages, this site served as an excellent example of grape cultivation and wine production, including the famous vintages Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Each one of 1,000 climates, better known as parcels of vines, has its own name, history and place in the hierarchy of wines. Set between green valleys and hills, this unique landscape is decorated with various centuries-old paths, stone walls and fences. The Climats of the Burgundy Vineyard produce one-of-a-kind alcoholic beverages whose excellency is recognised worldwide.

Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur (4)

Ancient Roman Theatre and Arc de Triomphe

Still known for having the best preserved Roman theatre in entire Europe, the Ancient Roman Theatre is situated in Orange, southeastern France. The imposing 1st century AD facades were the first of their kind in France, which continue to impress visitors up to this day. In the past, the theatre’s area could host up to 9,000 people, who would be seated according to their social status. King Louis XIV called it “the most beautiful wall in my entire kingdom” for its 103 metres long, 1,80 metres thick and 37 metres high structure. On top of that, the Triumphal Arch of Orange was built during the Middle Ages to guard the northern entry points of the town.

Arles, Roman and Romanesque monuments

Influenced by ancient Roman and Romanesque monuments, the centre of the old town of Alres stands out for the outstanding beauty and quality of its distinct architecture. Within the stone walls lie several impressive monuments, such as the arena, theatre and cryptoporticus. The mentioned sites stand as witnesses of what life in the early European civilization looked like. During the centuries, Arles has always been one of the most attractive cities in the Mediterranean. The baths of Constantine and the necropolis of Alyscamps were built during the second Golden Age, while the cloister of Saint-Trophime stands as one of Provence’s major Romanesque monuments in the 11th and 12th centuries. 

Historic centre of Avignon

Known as the City of Popes, Avignon lies on the banks of the Rhône River, a historic river in France and Switzerland. With a dominating view of the city, the 14th-century Palace of the Popes is surrounded by wooden ramparts and the remains of a medieval bridge of Pont d’Avignon. The intricate and colourful interior of the palace emphasises the creative decor of the papal court. Another exceptional monument is the Palais Veux, or the Old Palace, which was built during the reign of Benedict XII. Further to the south lies the Palais Neuf, otherwise known as the New Palace built by his successor which houses the papal chapel. 

Nice

At the foot of the Alps overlooking the Mediterranean lies Nice, a winter resort town of the Riviera. Located near the Italian border, the diverse cultural influences of aristocratic British visitors in the past have shaped the urban development and architecture of the town we see today. The prestigious Promenade des Anglais, or Promenade of the English, is situated between the sea and mountains, offering a breathtaking view of the whole coastal landscape. Therefore, Nice strongly defends its title of being one of the most beautiful and tranquil winter resorts in France. However, if skiing and snowboarding are more to your liking, do check out our guide to the top 10 ski resorts in France!

Grand Est (4)

Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saint-Rémi Abbey and Tau Palace, Reims

Serving as an evident testimony to the twenty-five royal coronations that took place there, the 13th-century Notre Dame Cathedral of Reims is considered to be one of the masterpieces of Gothic architecture and art. Closely linked to the history of France, the cathedral bears witness to various awe-inspiring arts, ornaments, sculptures, stained glass and carvings. With its beautiful 9th-century nave, Saint-Rémi Abbey still hosts the remains of Archbishop St Rémi. This was the place where the coronation ceremonies of the kings of France began and ended. Almost entirely rebuilt in the 17th century, the Tau Palace that adjoins the cathedral was once the residence of the archbishop himself. 

Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars

Since the early 17th century, the Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars are known as the place where the method of producing sparkling wine was born. This UNESCO site encompasses three vineyards of Hautvillers, Aÿ and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Saint-Nicaise Hill in Reims, and the Avenue de Champagne and Fort Chabrol in Epernay. Formed on the historic vibrant green hillsides, the production of Champagne became associated with royalty from the 17th to the 19th century. Today, Champagne is world-renowned as the universal symbol of celebration and luxury that can be enjoyable by anyone, for any occasion. Visitors are offered a variety of experiences, tours, and tastings all year round. So, prepare to raise your glass to one of the world’s most loved bubbly beverages. Cheers!

Stanislas, Carrière and Alliance squares

Built between 1752 to 1756, Stanislas, Carrière and Alliance squares in Nancy make one of the oldest and most harmonious examples of a royal square planned in the Age of Enlightenment. The variety of design, the richness of architecture and the subtlety of ornamentation illustrated the ideal unity of central and monumental urban space. With its prestigious arches, statues and fountains, the three linked squares give access to multiple public buildings. That includes the town hall, the courts of justice and the “Palais de Fermes” which used to be the residence of the dukes of Lorraine. Over more than a century, several restoration projects have been undertaken in order to preserve and protect its authenticity and functionality.

Strasbourg, Grande-Île and Neustadt

Making the city of Strasbourg, the Grande-Île and Neustadt formed an urban ensemble that harmoniously blended French and Germanic influences. Surrounded by picturesque rivers and canals, Strasbourg stands as one of the de facto four main capitals of the European Union. Its carefully designed constructions form a remarkable urban space that stood as a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation. The features reflect significant periods of European history, such as Roman Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Rhineland Renaissance and French 18th-century classicism. The most notable structure in the area is the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, a major masterpiece of Gothic art nestled on the ancient riverbed of the Rhine and its man-made waterways. 

Paris Region (4)

Paris 

Known as a global centre for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture, the capital of France treats you with two UNESCO sites, the banks of the Seine river and Versailles. From the masterfully built Notre Dame Cathedral to the impressive Louvre Museum, the evolution and history of Paris are written all over the city. Banks of the Seine is a collection of all major sites of cultural importance to France and its neighbouring areas. We’re talking about approximately 365 hectares in land area. On the other hand, the Palace of Versailles was shaped and decorated by several generations of architects, decorators and sculptors. Furthermore, it provided Europe with a model of ideal royal residence for more than 100 years. 

Palace and Park of Versailles

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Palace and Park of Versailles have been the centre of power, art and culture that served as the absolute seat of power of the French monarchs. Boasting numerous gardens, bosquets, caves and fountains, the palace and its adjoined park were entrusted to the greatest artists of its time in order to ensure its ultimate perfection. The surrounding park spreads over more than 800 hectares and it’s decorated with around 30 fountains. The most famous are the Neptune fountain, the Apollo fountain and the Latona fountain which are enhanced with water effects and statues of marble and bronze that reference enrapturing myths of Apollo. 

Palace and Park of Fontainebleau 

Standing in the heart of central France, the Palace and Park of Fontainebleau were used as the royal residence of the French sovereigns from the 12th to the 19th century. Constantly maintained and enriched, many notable Italian artists, painters, sculptors and architects combined Renaissance and French artistic traditions to improve both the palace and the park. The additions were associated with important historical events that took place here, such as the repeal of the Edict of Nantes and the abdication of Napoleon I. During the 17th century, the continuous need to redecorate and improve the sites created quite a remarkable artistic milieu that is sure to impress anyone with its prestigious and unique pieces of history.

Provins

Remarkable and authentic, Provins was commonly known as an important centre of exchange in goods and knowledge. The trading fairs marked the beginning of significant international trade where travellers from all four corners of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East were brought together. Therefore, this encouraged the development of other certain activities, such as banking, foreign currency exchange and cloth trade. The walled city boasts its well-preserved defence system, as well as several other complexes like merchant houses, vaulted cellars and warehouses. During the biggest annual medieval festival in France, be prepared to see various crowd entertainers, artisant, merchants, dances, games, balls, concerts, jousting tournaments, parades and many more!

Overseas territory (4)

Taputapuātea 

Located at the centre of the “Polynesian Triangle”, Taputapuātea is a large complex on Ra’iātea Island that is adorned with many islands, two forested valleys, a deep blue lagoon and colourful coral reefs. At the heart of the site lies the marae complex which serves as the political, ceremonial and funerary centre. This site is an exceptional testimony to roughly 1,000 years of mā’ohi civilization dedicated to Oro, the god of war in Polynesian mythology. Additionally, it’s also used as the sacred place where the world of the living intersects the world of the ancestors and gods. Be prepared to relive the lifestyle of all farmers, warriors, priests and kings that settled near the raging sea.

Lagoons of New Caledonia

After the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the six lagoons of New Caledonia stand out for their coral diversity, outstanding beauty and unique geography. It’s the third largest barrier reef in the world and the longest continuous barrier reef globally. Providing a home to many endemic or threatened marine species, the lagoons are filled with more than 23 species of turtles, whales and dugongs that can only be found in this territory! Together with dramatic displays of massive coral structures, arches, caves and major fissures, the reef of exceptional richness and diversity entirely encircles Grande Terre, the largest island of New Caledonia.

Pitons, Cirques and Remparts of Réunion Island

Enriched with its rugged terrain, impressive escarpments, forested gorges and basins, Réunion Island lies in the heart of Réunion National Park. The landscape of one of the best 50 national parks in Europe is dominated by two grand volcanos, enormous stone walls and subtropical rainforests. Diverse in ecosystems and landscape features, the site proves to be a natural habitat for a wide diversity of plants and animals. This island of striking beauty includes features like “Remparts”, steep rock walls of varying geological age and character, and “cirques” which are actually massive natural amphitheatres. The combination of steam erosion, volcanic presence and heavy rainfall has formed a dramatic terrain which hides several centuries-old histories.  

French Southern Lands and Seas

Situated in the middle of the Southern Ocean, the French Southern Lands and Seas include the Crozet Archipelago, the Kerguelen Islands, Saint-Paul and Amsterdam Islands, as well as 60 small sub-Antarctic islands. Because of its huge size, the site supports one of the highest concentrations of birds and marine mammals in the world. The remoteness of these islands provides the perfect home to over 50 million birds of up to 47 species. Extremely well-preserved, the territory’s unique terrain is ideal for learning more about biological evolution and conducting scientific research. When visiting, be sure to say hello to the largest population of King Penguins and Yellow-nosed albatrosses in the world!

Hauts-de-France (3)

Nord-Pas de Calais mining basin

Shaping over three centuries of coal extraction, the Nord-Pas de Calais mining basin is a remarkable landscape that was used daily from the 1700s to the 1900s. The site stretches over 120,000 ha, featuring multiple mining pits, slag heaps, coal transport buildings, railway stations and mining villages. Illustrating a significant period in the history of industrial Europe, the location served as a nexus for the exchange of ideas about coal extraction methods and documenting the living conditions of workers. Built on an old coal pit in the heart of the mining area, the region boasts its own Louvre museum, also known as the Louvre-Lens. Also home to two of Europe’s largest spoil heaps, the mesmerising panoramic view from the top of the “Pyramids of the North” will surely be the highlight of your visit.

Belfries of Belgium and France

Representing two countries, the Belfries of Belgium and France were built and improved between the 11th and 17th centuries. Showcasing the Roman, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles of architecture, the belfries are exceptional examples of buildings that adapted to the political and spiritual requirements of their age. Over the centuries, the buildings served as a watchtower and a prison that came to represent the influence and wealth of the towns where they were built. Situated in the heart of urban areas, this site housed city council meetings where people in power sat down and discussed the future of their city and nation.

Amiens Cathedral

In the heart of Picardy lies Amiens Cathedral, one of the three largest 13th-century Gothic cathedrals. It’s recognisable by the particularly fine display of sculptures and the beauty of its three-tier interior elevation, as well as the ideal symmetry of the nave and choir. Built in less than a century, the cathedral is famed for its prodigious stained glass and sculpted decor. Later on, the Amiens Cathedral had a significant influence on the further development of classic Gothic architecture. The so-called Notre-Dame d’Amiens still serves as the seat of the Bishop of Amiens. Prepare to be dazzled under the evening lights by the awe-inspiring interior filled with many works of art and treasures.

Centre-Val de Loire (2)

Chartres Cathedral

Counting more than 1.3 million visitors per year, Chartres Cathedral represents the high point of French Gothic architecture. On a clear day, you can see the church’s two iconic spires from more than 15 km away. Only an hour away from Paris, it is a popular one-day trip destination from the capital. The cathedral has become a known site of pilgrimage because it’s said to display the veil worn by Virgin Mary while giving birth to Jesus. The highlight of this site is the annual light show, or “Chartres en Lumières”, held from mid-April to early October. During that period, more than 20 historical sites are illuminated by over 300 time-synced lights.

Bourges Cathedral

Dedicated to the first Christian martyr Saint Étienne, the late 12th and 13th century Bourges Cathedral occupies the Centre-Val de Loire région. It’s admired for its perfectly proportioned sculptures, tympanum and stained-glass windows which are considered to be a great masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Apart from the unity and beauty of its design, the cathedral has occupied this site since the 3rd century and it bears witness to how Christianity influenced medieval France in significant ways. Besides being a building of considerable importance, the Bourges Cathedral has always been well looked after and has remained unaltered over the centuries.

Normandie (2)

Mont-Saint-Michel

Also known as the “Wonder of the West”, Mont-Saint-Michel stands on a rocky islet in the middle of sandbanks between Normandy and Brittany. It’s a Gothic-style Benedictine fortress built in honour of the archangel St Michael, a spiritual champion of justice. In the period between the 11th and 16th centuries, the unconquerable fortress was used as a base for many military operations. Moreover, its walls, fortifications and defence systems had to adapt to its unique location so it could get all the strategic advantage it possibly could. At high tide, the only road to the mainland was often completely covered with water, which caused the attackers to get stuck in the mud or drown within hours.

Le Havre

Nestled on the English Channel in Normandy, the city of Le Havre is a stunning post-war example of urban architecture. Rebuilt by Auguste Perret, the goal was to achieve a homogeneous ensemble where all design details have the same pattern in order to achieve unity on the urban scale. Some of the original 16th-century buildings such as the cathedral, law courts and squares survived the bombings during World War II. The importance of the renovation was set on the emphasis of keeping with the traditional architecture, technology and urbanism. Known as one of the best beaches in France, the nearby Etretat Beach is famous for its fascinatingly shaped cliffs and soft white sand.

Corsica (1)

Gulf Of Porto

Counted among the natural wonders of France, the Gulf of Porto is a stunning expanse of land and sea on the island of Corsica, where the great leader Napoleon was born. Settled right between Italy and France, the gulf’s exposed rocks have been shaped by sea and wind erosion, giving it its unique shape. On Corsica’s west coast you’ll find a vast, V-shaped bay that encompasses the Calanques de Piana in the south, the harbour of Porto itself, the Gulf of Girolata and the Scandola Nature Reserve on the northern end. It’s a place where you can feel the ecological and geological power which continues to influence and shape this one-of-a-kind site.

Map of World Heritage Sites in France