Hidden gems in France.

A great summer spot with a lake, beach games, boat rides, and designated swim spots. Very much a locals thing.

A tiny marina tucked off the coast that feels completely separate from the city - colorful boats, stone cottages, and a small inlet framed by a grand arched bridge above. Also home to two of the best bouillabaisse restaurants in Marseille: Chez Fonfon and L'Epuisette, both legendary.

A small hidden cove with clear turquoise water - only locals know about it. About an hour hike to reach it, which keeps the crowds away.

The best beginner surf beach in the Basque Country and a fraction of the crowds of Biarritz. Long, wide beach with perfect small swells. 25 minutes by train from Biarritz - most visitors never make the trip.

Rooftop at the top floor of the Galeries Lafayette shopping mall. It’s sometimes busy, but one of the better free viewpoints in Paris.

A beautiful park with a lake and dramatic cliffs - feels nothing like tourist Paris. One of the city's best kept secrets.

A beautiful neighborhood vastly overlooked by tourists, with great food and boutique shops. Feels like real Paris.

Amsterdam-like canal with peaceful vibes - perfect for a slow afternoon walk away from the tourist crowds.

One of many secret covered passageways in the 2nd arrondissement, lined with restaurants and boutiques. Built in 1823.

Outdoor market open Sundays and Thursdays (7am-2:30pm). Don't miss the Breton crepe stand.

Busy but only with locals - the best family beach in the area near Marseille, with calm sheltered water.

A quick beach getaway from Marseille - easily reachable by a short ferry ride. Rocky coastline, clear water, and far fewer tourists than you'd expect.

A secret little beach near Les Goudes - a tiny fishing village about 20 minutes from central Marseille that most visitors never find.

The best spot in Marseille for authentic savon de Marseille - not the tourist version. A local institution that's been doing it right for decades.

A 360-degree panorama that beats the cathedral terrace itself - the whole city, the sea, and Notre-Dame all in one view. Almost no one finds it.

30-minute walk from Cassis, or park at the Calanque de Port Miou lot and walk along the left side of the calanque to the end. Far quieter and more scenic than the beaches in town. Best cliff jumping spots are along the sides of the calanque - you'll see people jumping.