Northern France is often overlooked when planning a French getaway, while Southern France never fails to be a popular choice for family holidays and romantic retreats. However, here at Oliver’s Travels we know the wonders of Northern France and everything it has to offer! From exquisite beaches and beautiful vineyards to towns dripping in culture and the birthplace of Camembert, there’s something for everyone. We’ve chosen our favourite places to visit in Northern France, including some luxury chateaux, and shared the best things to do in each destination so you can soak up the splendour of this lovely region.
No longer just a Eurostar stop between London and Brussels, Lille has emerged as a destination in its own right. Head southeast from Calais to Lille, where you’ll discover the jewel in Nord-Pas-de-Calais’s crown has a surprising cultural scene, fine restaurants and a quaint old town.
Top 3 things to do in Lille:
Dunkirk became famous for the epic 1940 evacuation of Allied troops, when 338,226 soldiers were improbably rescued, and today has a number of museums and war memorials.
Top 3 things to do in Dunkirk:
The bustling port town of Calais is filled with great dining and drinking spots, many with menus that draw upon the bounty of the sea and land.
Top 3 things to do in Calais:
Boulogne-sur-Mer has a pretty cobblestoned quarter – the ville haute, or upper town – with medieval walls wrapping around a grand, domed basilica and web of narrow streets.
Top 3 things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer:
Picardy is a pretty region where grand chateaux are tucked into the folds of wooded hills, Gothic cathedrals tower above picturesque towns, and moving memorials commemorate the First World War.
Top 3 things to do in Picardy:
Now that you’ve seen our favourite places to visit in Northern France, why not check out our villas in Northern France and plan your next trip? Need a hand? Contact our lovely concierge team for more information or help with your booking! For any more ideas of things to do on your Northern France holiday, check out Bookmundi’s tours and trips.
Looking for a full list of villas to rent this year? Check out our villa holidays page here.
Northern France Travel Guide
Top 11 villas in Northern France
Top 10 villas in Normandy
Best foodie experiences in Brittany
If you're looking for the perfect luxury villa to rent for your big day, you've… Read More
Family holidays are always special – you get to spend quality time together (a rarity… Read More
Guest post by Dakota Murphey When you think of a perfect winter stay, cosy chalets with… Read More
It’s no secret that France is always a hit holiday destination for the whole family.… Read More
There’s more to Menorca than its historic twin cities and mysterious Neolithic monuments. Its 200km-long… Read More
Historical architecture, sandy beaches, plentiful national parks and homegrown wine – it’s not hard to… Read More