3. Grenoble
Grenoble is mostly known as a center for science and technology, but it is also blessed with astounding natural beauty. Embraced by the mountains of the Parc Naturel Régional de Chartreuse and the Parc Naturel Régional du Vercors, the city is set on the bank of the River Isère and boasts many scenic vistas. This “capital of the Alps” in southastern France hosted the 1968 Winter Olympic Games. Its cobbled streets, open-air markets, chi-chi cafés and ooh-la-la boulangeries add to its charm.
4. Nîmes
Nîmes is a modern metropolis today, but remnants of its former Roman glory remain. Most notable is the perfectly-preserved amphitheatre and the 2000 year old temple, Maison Carré – perhaps the best remaining temple of the Roman Empire. For a modern infusion, the Carré d’Art is a spectacular glass and chrome museum of contemporary art that you can’t miss. The city is situated in the south of France between the Mediterranean Sea and the Cévennes mountains. We all owe thanks to the hardy textile that hails from the city of Nîmes – denim.