There are many historical cities worth visiting during your holiday.

Mayenne Region:

The Mayenne region, located in the Pays de la Loire in western France, is rich in history and charm. The area is known for its well-preserved medieval towns, castles, and picturesque countryside. Here are some historic cities in the Mayenne region that are worth exploring:

1. Laval 🔎

• Château de Laval: The city of Laval is the capital of the Mayenne department and is known for its impressive medieval castle, the Château de Laval. This 11th-century fortress dominates the city and now houses a museum of naive art. The old town, with its narrow streets and half-timbered houses, is a delightful place to explore.

• Cathedral of the Holy Trinity: Laval's cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, features a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and historical artifacts.

• Medieval Quarter: The historic centre of Laval is well-preserved, with charming cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and historic buildings. The Old Bridge over the Mayenne River offers a picturesque view of the town.

2. Mayenne 🔎

• Château de Mayenne: This small town gives its name to the region and is home to the Château de Mayenne, a well-preserved medieval castle that dates back to the 10th century. The castle has been converted into a museum showcasing local history, including exhibits on medieval life and archaeology.

• Basilica of Notre-Dame: The Basilica of Notre-Dame in Mayenne is a beautiful neo-Gothic church with impressive architecture and a richly decorated interior. The church is an important pilgrimage site in the region.

3. Château-Gontier

• Historic Town Centre: Château-Gontier is a picturesque town with a well-preserved historic centre. It features beautiful old buildings, including the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) and several 17th-century mansions.

• River Mayenne: The town is located along the River Mayenne, and its riverside setting adds to its charm. You can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks or take a boat ride to explore the area from the water.

• Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste: This 12th-century Romanesque church is one of the town’s architectural highlights, with a simple yet elegant design and a peaceful atmosphere.

4. Sainte-Suzanne

• Medieval Village: Sainte-Suzanne is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. Perched on a rocky outcrop, this fortified medieval village is surrounded by well-preserved walls and towers. Its narrow streets, charming houses, and historic buildings make it a must-visit.

• Château de Sainte-Suzanne: The village is dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle, which played a significant role in the region’s history. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and houses a museum dedicated to the history of the village and the castle.

5. Évron

• Basilica of Notre-Dame de l'Épine: Évron is known for its impressive basilica, a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The basilica dates back to the 10th century and features a beautiful cloister and richly decorated interior.

• Historic Monuments: The town also has several other historic buildings, including old townhouses and remnants of medieval fortifications, giving visitors a sense of its past significance.

6. Craon

• Château de Craon: Craon is a small town known for its elegant 18th-century château. The Château de Craon is often referred to as the "Versailles of Mayenne" due to its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can tour the château and explore its extensive parklands.

• Old Town: Craon’s old town features traditional houses, a lovely church, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.

7. Lassay-les-Châteaux

• Château de Lassay: This small town is famous for its well-preserved medieval castle, Château de Lassay, which dates back to the 15th century. The castle is a fine example of medieval military architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

• Charming Village: Lassay-les-Châteaux also features a picturesque village with narrow streets, old stone houses, and charming squares. The town’s historic atmosphere is complemented by its natural surroundings, with nearby lakes and forests offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

8. Jublains 🔎

• Jublains: Is an archaeological site rich with Roman history. Originally the capital of the Diablintes, a Gallic tribe, Jublains (formerly Noviodunum) grew into a significant Roman town by 65 AD. It featured a theatre, public baths, a temple, and a fortress, much of which is still visible today.

• Ancient Capital:  The site offers a vivid glimpse into Roman urban planning and life, as well as the strategic importance of this location, which once lay on a key route connecting the Loire Valley and the English Channel.

These historic cities and towns in the Mayenne region offer a rich blend of cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and scenic landscapes, making them well worth a visit for anyone exploring western France.

Normandy Region:

Normandy, a region in northern France, is steeped in history, with its roots stretching back to the Vikings and its landscape marked by medieval architecture, World War II sites, and picturesque towns.

1. Rouen 🔎

• Historical Significance: Rouen is one of Normandy’s most important historical cities. Known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," it was the site where Joan of Arc was tried and burned at the stake in 1431.

• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen: This Gothic masterpiece, immortalized by Claude Monet in a series of paintings, is a highlight of the city. The cathedral's spire is the tallest in France.

• Gros Horloge: Rouen’s medieval astronomical clock, the Gros Horloge, is another must-see, located in the heart of the old town, surrounded by timber-framed houses.

• Joan of Arc Church and Historical Sites: The Church of Saint Joan of Arc and the Historial Jeanne d'Arc museum tell the story of the French heroine.

2. Caen 🔎

• William the Conqueror: Caen is closely associated with William the Conqueror, who founded the city in the 11th century. It houses his tomb in the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a Romanesque abbey he built.

• Caen Castle: One of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, Caen Castle was also founded by William the Conqueror and now hosts two museums: the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée de Normandie.

• World War II Memorial: The Mémorial de Caen is a major museum and memorial centre dedicated to the history of World War II and the Battle of Normandy.

3. Bayeux

• Bayeux Tapestry: Bayeux is most famous for the Bayeux Tapestry, a nearly 70-meter-long embroidered cloth depicting the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It is displayed in the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux.

• Bayeux Cathedral: The city's Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux, is another architectural gem, dating back to the 11th century.

• D-Day Connections: Bayeux was the first French town liberated during the Normandy Invasion, and it is home to the Bayeux War Cemetery and the Battle of Normandy Museum.

4. Honfleur

• Historic Harbor: Honfleur is a picturesque port town with a history dating back to the Vikings. Its Vieux Bassin (old harbour) is lined with narrow, colourful houses and has been an inspiration for many artists, including Claude Monet.

• Sainte-Catherine's Church: The town’s wooden church, Église Sainte-Catherine, built by shipbuilders in the 15th century, is the largest wooden church in France.

• Artistic Heritage: Honfleur has a rich artistic history and is home to several museums, including the Musée Eugène Boudin, which celebrates the work of the local painter who was a precursor to the Impressionists.

5. Le Havre

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Le Havre’s modernist architecture, rebuilt after World War II by architect Auguste Perret, earned it a UNESCO World Heritage status. The city's layout and use of reinforced concrete were groundbreaking for the time.

• St. Joseph’s Church: The Église Saint-Joseph, with its towering spire, is a symbol of the city's post-war reconstruction and is renowned for its stained glass windows.

• Impressionist Connections: Le Havre is also known as the birthplace of Impressionism; Claude Monet painted his famous work Impression, Sunrise here. The Musée d'art moderne André Malraux (MuMa) hosts an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings.

6. Évreux

• Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Évreux: Évreux’s Gothic cathedral is one of the highlights of this historic town. The building showcases stunning stained glass windows and a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

• Évreux Museum: Housed in the former bishop’s palace, the museum features archaeological collections, fine arts, and artifacts related to the town’s history.

7. Alençon

• Lace-Making Tradition: Alençon is famous for its lace, known as Point d'Alençon, which is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. The Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle celebrates this tradition.

• Basilica of Notre-Dame: The town’s Gothic basilica, Basilique Notre-Dame, is renowned for its beautiful stained glass and intricate stone carvings.

• Birthplace of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux: Alençon is also known as the birthplace of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, one of the Catholic Church’s most beloved saints. Her childhood home is now a pilgrimage site.

8. Vernon

• Medieval and Renaissance Heritage: Vernon is a charming town with a well-preserved medieval centre. Highlights include the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, a beautiful Gothic church, and the Old Mill, a picturesque house that sits on the remains of a medieval bridge over the Seine.

• Giverny Proximity: Just across the Seine from Vernon is the village of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and worked. His house and gardens, particularly the famous water lily pond, are major attractions.

9. Dieppe

• Historic Port: Dieppe is one of France's oldest seaside resorts and has a rich maritime history. The town’s Château de Dieppe houses a museum with an impressive collection of maritime artifacts and Impressionist paintings.

• Dieppe Raid: The town is also known for the Dieppe Raid during World War II, an ill-fated Allied assault in 1942. The town’s war memorials and the Canadian Cemetery commemorate this event.

10. Fécamp

• Benedictine Palace: Fécamp is known for the Palais Bénédictine, where the famous Benedictine liqueur is produced. The palace is an architectural gem, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles, and offers tours of the distillery and museum.

• Abbey of the Holy Trinity: The town’s abbey, Abbaye de la Trinité, is an important religious site with a history dating back to the 7th century.

11. Domfront 🔎

• Located in the Orne department of Normandy, France, is a charming medieval town that offers a rich blend of history, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes.

12. Falaise 🔎

• A historic town in Normandy, France, is a captivating destination with deep historical roots, particularly related to the Norman Conquest and medieval heritage.

13. Mont Saint-Michel 🔎

• One of France's most iconic and enchanting destinations, renowned for its unique setting, rich history, and breathtaking beauty.

These historic cities in Normandy each offer unique glimpses into the region's past, from medieval times to World War II, making them must-visit destinations for history enthusiasts.

Brittany Region:

Brittany, or Bretagne in French, is a region in north western France known for its rich history, Celtic heritage, medieval architecture, and stunning coastal landscapes.

1. Rennes 🔎

• Capital of Brittany: Rennes is the capital of Brittany and one of its most vibrant cities, with a history that stretches back over 2,000 years.

• Medieval Old Town: The city boasts a well-preserved medieval old town, with winding streets lined with half-timbered houses, particularly around the Place Sainte-Anne and the Place des Lices.

• Parlement de Bretagne: This grand 17th-century building was once the seat of the Breton Parliament and is a masterpiece of classical French architecture. Today, it serves as a courthouse and is open for guided tours.

• Saint-Pierre Cathedral: The Roman Catholic cathedral in Rennes is an impressive neoclassical building that dates back to the 19th century, although the site has been a place of worship for much longer.

2. Saint-Malo 🔎

• Walled City: Saint-Malo is famous for its intact medieval city walls, which offer spectacular views of the sea and the town. The Ramparts encircle the old town and are a popular walking route for visitors.

• Corsair History: Saint-Malo was historically a haven for corsairs (privateers) who were authorized by the king to attack enemy ships. The city's rich maritime history can be explored at the Musée d'Histoire de la Ville et du Pays Malouin, located in the Château de Saint-Malo.

• Intra-Muros: The old town, known as Intra-Muros, is a maze of narrow streets filled with charming stone buildings, shops, and restaurants. Despite being heavily damaged during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt to its former glory.

3. Dinan

• Medieval Architecture: Dinan is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Brittany, with its 3 km-long city walls, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets creating a truly authentic medieval atmosphere.

• Basilica of Saint-Sauveur: The Basilica of Saint-Sauveur is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with a beautiful interior and stunning views from the nearby clock tower.

• Rue du Jerzual: This steep, cobblestoned street is one of Dinan’s most picturesque, lined with artisan shops and leading down to the port on the River Rance.

4. Quimper

• Celtic Heritage: Quimper is the capital of the Finistère department and is known for its strong Breton culture, including its language, music, and traditional festivals.

• Saint Corentin Cathedral: The city’s stunning Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Corentin, is one of the oldest in Brittany, with twin spires that dominate the skyline.

• Quimper Faience: The city is famous for its faience pottery, and visitors can learn about this craft at the Musée de la Faïence. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is also noteworthy for its fine collection of Breton art.

5. Vannes

• Medieval City: Vannes is another beautifully preserved medieval city, with well-preserved city walls, charming half-timbered houses, and narrow, winding streets.

• Saint Peter’s Cathedral: Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Vannes is a Gothic cathedral with Romanesque origins that showcases various architectural styles due to centuries of modifications.

• Old Town and Port: The old town is encircled by ancient ramparts and gates, and its colourful timber-framed houses are a delight to explore. The picturesque port area is also a highlight, with boats moored along the Quai Eric Tabarly.

6. Fougères 🔎

• Fougères Castle: Fougères is home to one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, Château de Fougères. This massive fortress dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

• Medieval Quarter: The old town of Fougères is equally charming, with medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and historic churches, including the Church of Saint-Sulpice.

7. Locronan

• Picturesque Village: Locronan is a small but exceptionally well-preserved village that has been classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its historic stone houses and cobblestone streets have made it a popular location for films.

• Saint Ronan Church: The village is centred around the Église Saint-Ronan, a Gothic church named after the town’s patron saint. The church and the surrounding square are beautifully preserved.

8. Concarneau

• Ville Close: Concarneau is famous for its Ville Close, a fortified island town in the heart of its harbour. The medieval walls and narrow streets are well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

• Fishing Heritage: As one of France’s most important fishing ports, Concarneau has a strong maritime tradition. The Musée de la Pêche (Fishing Museum) is located in the Ville Close and explores this aspect of the town’s history.

9. Auray

• Saint-Goustan Port: The charming port of Saint-Goustan in Auray is one of the most picturesque spots in Brittany, with its historic harbour lined with old stone houses and cobbled streets.

• Historic Centre: Auray’s old town features a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the Église Saint-Gildas and the Chapelle du Saint-Esprit.

10. Redon

• Maritime Heritage: Redon has a rich history as a port town, located at the confluence of the Vilaine River and the Canal de Nantes à Brest. Its historic centre features charming streets, old houses, and the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur, a Romanesque church with a remarkable cloister.

• Inland Navigation: The town’s maritime history is celebrated at the Musée de la Batellerie de l’Ouest, which focuses on inland navigation and the life of bargees in the region.

These historic cities and towns in Brittany offer a rich blend of cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and scenic charm, making them perfect destinations for exploring the history and culture of this fascinating region.

These are just a few suggestions, as there are many other historical cities and landmarks to explore in these regions of France.