Ah, Northern France—often overlooked by travelers sprinting from Paris to the Riviera, but those in the know understand that this region is brimming with coastal cliffs, medieval towns, and fairytale-worthy châteaux. If you’re ready to swap long lines at the Louvre for something a little more magical (and with fewer selfie sticks), here are the most stunning places to visit in Northern France.

1. Mont-Saint-Michel – The Island Straight Out of a Fantasy Novel

Imagine a medieval abbey perched on a tiny island, rising dramatically from the sea like something out of Game of Thrones. That’s Mont-Saint-Michel, and yes, it’s just as jaw-dropping in real life. When the tide comes in, it becomes a true island, completely cut off from the mainland. When it’s out, you can walk across the surrounding sands like a monk on pilgrimage (or, let’s be honest, like someone trying to get the perfect Instagram shot). Either way, it’s pure magic.

2. Étretat – Cliffs That Will Make You Feel Like a 19th-Century Painte

Northern France isn’t all charming villages and wine—sometimes, it’s dramatic white cliffs plunging into the sea, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in Étretat. This coastal gem is famous for its rock formations that look like natural sculptures, especially L’Aiguille (the Needle) and L’Arche (the Arch). Monet himself couldn’t get enough of this place, and when you see the golden light hitting the cliffs at sunset, you’ll understand why.

3. Honfleur – The Harbor Town That Looks Like a Painting

Speaking of Monet, Honfleur is basically an impressionist painting come to life. This tiny harbor town in Normandy is lined with pastel-hued houses, bobbing boats, and waterside cafés where you can sip a cidre (because Normandy does apples, not grapes). It’s effortlessly charming, with cobbled streets leading to France’s largest wooden church, Saint-Catherine’s. If you’re into the whole “wander aimlessly and fall in love with a place” thing, Honfleur is perfection.

4. The Pink Granite Coast – Where Rocks Are Weirdly Beautiful

Some beaches have white sand. Some have black sand. And then there’s Brittany’s Côte de Granit Rose, where the coastline is made of massive pink-hued rock formations that look like they were sculpted by a very artistic giant. The best way to experience it? Take the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers’ Path), a scenic hiking trail with jaw-dropping coastal views at every turn.

5. Rouen – A Medieval Dream With a Side of Joan of Arc History

Rouen is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Timber-framed houses lean over narrow streets, the Gothic cathedral is pure drama (Monet loved painting this one, too), and every corner feels steeped in history. Joan of Arc met her tragic end here, and you can visit the exact spot where she was burned at the stake. A little dark? Yes. But Rouen itself is absolutely stunning and one of the most underrated cities in France.

6. Château de Chantilly – Because Versailles Isn’t the Only Fancy Castle

Want all the grandeur of Versailles without the overwhelming crowds? Château de Chantilly is your answer. This lesser-known château, just north of Paris, is surrounded by dreamy gardens, lavish interiors, and an art collection second only to the Louvre. Oh, and it’s also the birthplace of chantilly (whipped cream), so yes, you’ll want to eat dessert here.

7. Lille – The City You Didn’t Know You Needed to Visit

Lille doesn’t get the attention it deserves, but this northern city has serious charm. It’s got Flemish-style architecture, a buzzing food scene (hello, waffles and carbonnade flamande—aka beer-braised beef), and one of the prettiest main squares in France. Plus, if you like a good market, the Braderie de Lille (Europe’s biggest flea market) is an absolute dream for treasure hunters.

8. Amiens – The Venice of the North (Sort Of)

Amiens is home to France’s largest cathedral, which is impressive enough, but what really sets it apart are the hortillonnages—floating gardens crisscrossed by canals. Hop on a small boat and drift past flower-filled islands, or grab a riverside seat at one of the cute cafés in the Saint-Leu district. It’s peaceful, romantic, and just the right amount of off-the-beaten-path.

Final Thoughts

Northern France is a goldmine of stunning landscapes, fairytale towns, and history that doesn’t feel like a museum tour. So, if you’re heading to Paris and have time to explore beyond the capital, these spots will make you fall even harder for France—no Eiffel Tower required.