The 18 French Regions And Their Specialties (With a Map) (2024)

France is a country located in Western Europe that is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and beautiful landscapes. The country is divided into 18 regions, each with its own unique character and attractions.

These regions range from the bustling city of Paris, which is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, to the tranquil countryside of Provence, which is famous for its rolling hills, lavender fields, and picturesque villages.

Each region has its own distinct culture and traditions, as well as a range of natural and man-made attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or outdoor adventure, there is something for everyone in the diverse and fascinating regions of France.

The 18 regions of France

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a region located in the southeast of France, comprising of two former regions: Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes. It is the second most populous region in France, with a population of approximately 8 million people.

Auvergne is a mountainous region known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and cycling.

It is also home to a number of natural parks and protected areas, including the Massif Central and the Cantal and Puy-de-Dôme volcanoes.

The region is known for its cheese production, particularly the famous Roquefort blue cheese, as well as for its wine and charcuterie.

Rhône-Alpes is a diverse region with a rich history and culture. It is known for its vibrant cities, including Lyon, Grenoble, and Saint-Étienne, which are known for their gastronomy, art, and architecture.

The region is also home to a number of important industrial and research centers, including the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the Grenoble Institute of Technology.

Tourism is an important industry in the region, with a number of popular tourist destinations including the French Alps, the city of Lyon, and the thermal baths in Vichy and Aix-les-Bains.

The region is also home to a number of major events and festivals, including the Lyon Dance Festival and the Annecy International Animated Film Festival.

Overall, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a diverse and dynamic region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is a region located in eastern France, formed by the merger of the regions of Burgundy and Franche-Comté in 2016.

It is bordered by the regions of Grand Est to the north, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes to the east, and Centre-Val de Loire to the south. The region is known for its rich history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty.

Burgundy, or Bourgogne in French, is named after the Burgundians, a Germanic tribe that settled in the region during the 5th century. It is home to a number of important historical sites, including the Basilica of Vezelay and the Cluny Abbey.

The region is also known for its fine wines, with some of the most famous wine-producing areas in the world located here, including the Côte d’Or, Chablis, and Mâcon.

Franche-Comté, or Franc-Comté in French, is named after the Free County of Burgundy, a medieval county that was created in the 9th century.

It is a mountainous region with a number of natural attractions, including the Jura Mountains, the Ballon d’Alsace, and the Vosges Mountains. The region is also known for its cheese, including Comté and Morbier.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is home to a number of important cities and towns, including Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, and Besançon, the capital of Franche-Comté.

The region has a strong economy, with industries ranging from agriculture and food processing to automotive and aerospace manufacturing.

It is also home to a number of universities and research institutions, including the University of Burgundy and the University of Franche-Comté.

Bretagne

Bretagne, also known as Brittany, is a region located in the northwest of France, on the Atlantic coast. It is composed of four departments:

• Finistère
• Côtes-d’Armor
• Ille-et-Vilaine
• And Morbihan.

The region has a rich cultural heritage, with its own language (Breton) and distinctive architecture. The region is known for its beautiful beaches, rocky coasts, and charming towns and villages.

The economy of Bretagne is diverse, with a strong focus on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The region is also home to many aerospace and defense companies, as well as a thriving biotech sector.

Bretagne is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the region’s natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. The region is known for its seafood, particularly mussels and oysters, as well as its crepes, cider, and other traditional dishes.

Overall, Bretagne is a unique and vibrant region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination in France.

Centre-Val de Loire

The Centre-Val de Loire region is located in central France, and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

The region is home to a number of important historical sites, including the castles of the Loire Valley, which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The region is also home to a number of important museums and cultural institutions, including the Orsay Museum in Paris and the Centre Pompidou in Metz.

The region is known for its agriculture and food production, particularly its wine and cheese. The region is home to a number of famous wine regions, including the Sancerre and Vouvray wine regions. The region is also known for its production of cheeses, including Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort.

Tourism is an important industry in the region, with a number of popular tourist destinations including the city of Paris, the castles of the Loire Valley, and the historic town of Orleans. The region is also home to a number of major events and festivals, including the Tour de France and the Loire Valley Wine Festival.

Overall, the Centre-Val de Loire region is a rich and diverse region with a long history and a strong cultural heritage. It is known for its natural beauty, its agricultural production, and its cultural and artistic offerings.

Grand Est

Grand Est is a region located in northeastern France, formed by the merger of the regions of Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne, and Lorraine in 2016. It is bordered by the regions of Hauts-de-France to the northwest, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté to the southwest, and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes to the south.

The region is known for its rich history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty.

Alsace is a region located in eastern France, along the border with Germany. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Vosges Mountains, the Rhine River, and the Alsatian Wine Route.

The region is also known for its rich cultural traditions, including the production of traditional crafts and the famous Alsatian Christmas markets.

Champagne-Ardenne is a region located in northeastern France, known for its sparkling wine, the Champagne.

The region is also home to a number of important historical sites, including the city of Reims, where the kings of France were crowned, and the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lorraine is a region located in eastern France, along the border with Germany and Luxembourg.

It is known for its rolling hills and forests, as well as its rich industrial history. The region is home to a number of important cities, including Metz, the capital, and Nancy, a city known for its art and architecture.

Grand Est is home to a number of important cities and towns, including Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, and Reims, the capital of Champagne-Ardenne.

The region has a diverse economy, with industries ranging from agriculture and food processing to automotive and aerospace manufacturing.

It is also home to a number of universities and research institutions, including the University of Lorraine and the University of Strasbourg.

Hauts-de-France

Hauts-de-France is a region located in the north of France, bordering Belgium. It is composed of the departments of Nord and Pas-de-Calais.

The region has a long and rich history, with many cultural and historical landmarks, including the city of Lille, which is known for its beautiful Flemish architecture. The region is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardins de Valloires and the Jardins de Métis.

The economy of Hauts-de-France is diverse, with a strong focus on manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The region is home to many automotive and aerospace companies, as well as a thriving agricultural sector.

Hauts-de-France is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the region’s beautiful landscapes, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. The region is known for its delicious cheeses, including Maroilles and Boursault, as well as its beer and other traditional dishes.

Overall, Hauts-de-France is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination in France.

Île-de-France

Île-de-France is a region located in north-central France, and is the most populous region in the country, with a population of approximately 12 million people.

It is also the most densely populated region in France. The region is home to the city of Paris, the capital of France, as well as a number of other important cities and towns.

Île-de-France is known for its rich cultural heritage and its many iconic landmarks and tourist attractions.

The city of Paris is home to a number of famous museums, including the Louvre and the Orsay Museum, as well as iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

The region is also home to a number of important historical sites and cultural institutions, including the Palace of Versailles and the National Library of France.

Île-de-France is an important economic center in France, with a number of major industries including finance, tourism, and technology. The region is home to a number of major international companies and is known for its innovation and entrepreneurship.

Tourism is a major industry in the region, with a number of popular tourist destinations including the city of Paris and the castles of the Loire Valley. The region is also home to a number of major events and festivals, including the French Open tennis tournament and the Paris Marathon.

Overall, Île-de-France is a diverse and dynamic region with a rich cultural heritage and a strong economic base. It is known for its iconic landmarks, its cultural institutions, and its vibrant cities.

Normandie

Normandy is a region located in northern France, on the English Channel coast. It is known for its rich history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty. The region is divided into two administrative departments: Seine-Maritime and Eure.

Normandy is famous for its role in World War II, with the D-Day landings taking place on the beaches of Normandy in 1944.

The region is also home to a number of important historical sites, including the city of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, and the Bayeux Tapestry, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The region is known for its seafood, particularly oysters and mussels, as well as its dairy products, including Camembert cheese and butter. It is also home to a number of beautiful beaches and coastal towns, including Honfleur and Deauville.

Normandy is home to a number of important cities and towns, including Rouen, the capital of Seine-Maritime, and Evreux, the capital of Eure.

The region has a diverse economy, with industries ranging from agriculture and food processing to tourism and manufacturing.

It is also home to a number of universities and research institutions, including the University of Rouen and the University of Le Havre.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a region located in the southwest of France, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest region in France, covering an area of approximately 84,000 square miles. It is composed of 12 departments:

• Charente
• Charente-Maritime
• Corrèze
• Creuse
• Dordogne
• Gironde
• Landes
• Lot-et-Garonne
• Pyrénées-Atlantiques
• Deux-Sèvres
• Vienne
• Haute-Vienne.

The region has a rich cultural heritage, with many beautiful historical landmarks, such as the city of Bordeaux, which is known for its beautiful architecture and world-renowned wine. The region is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardins de Villandry and the Jardins de Balzac.

The economy of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is diverse, with a strong focus on agriculture, forestry, tourism, and manufacturing. The region is home to many agricultural and forestry companies, as well as a thriving tourism industry. The region is also known for its wine production, with many famous wineries located in the region.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the region’s beautiful beaches, charming towns and villages, and delicious cuisine. The region is known for its seafood, including oysters and mussels, as well as its foie gras and other traditional dishes.

Overall, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination in France.

Occitanie

Occitanie is a region located in the south of France, and is the third largest region in the country. It is known for its diverse landscape, which includes the Pyrenees mountains, the Mediterranean coast, and the Massif Central.

The region is also home to a number of important natural parks and protected areas, including the Pyrenees National Park and the Camargue Regional Nature Park.

The region is known for its rich cultural heritage and its many historical sites and landmarks. The city of Toulouse, the capital of the region, is known for its historic center and its many cultural institutions, including the Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the Capitole Theater.

The region is also home to a number of important historical sites, including the walled city of Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard aqueduct.

Occitanie is an important agricultural region, with a number of important food production industries, including wine, olive oil, and charcuterie. The region is also home to a number of major industries, including aerospace and automotive.

Tourism is an important industry in the region, with a number of popular tourist destinations including :

• The Mediterranean coast
• The Pyrenees mountains
• The cities of Toulouse and Montpellier.

The region is also home to a number of major events and festivals, including the Feria de Pâques in Nîmes and the Festival de Carcassonne.

Overall, Occitanie is a diverse and dynamic region with a rich cultural heritage and a strong economic base. It is known for its natural beauty, its cultural institutions, and its agricultural and industrial sectors.

Pays de la Loire

The Pays de la Loire is a region located in western France, on the Atlantic coast. It is made up of five departments:

• Loire-Atlantique
• Maine-et-Loire
• Mayenne
• Sarthe
• Vendée.

The region is known for its beautiful beaches, forests, and countryside, as well as its rich cultural and historical heritage. It is home to many charming towns and villages, including Nantes, Angers, and Le Mans.

The Pays de la Loire is also an important economic region, with a strong agricultural sector and a thriving tourism industry. It is home to many food and drink producers, including producers of cider, wine, and cheese.

In terms of transportation, the region is well connected by road, rail, and air, with the Nantes Atlantique Airport serving as the main hub for the region.

Overall, the Pays de la Loire is a vibrant and diverse region, with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a strong economy.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is a region located in the southeast of France, on the Mediterranean coast. It is composed of six departments:

• Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
• Hautes-Alpes
• Alpes-Maritimes
• Bouches-du-Rhône
• Var
• Vaucluse.

The region has a rich cultural heritage, with many beautiful historical landmarks, such as the city of Marseille, which is the oldest city in France.

The region is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardins du Mas du Pont de Rousty and the Jardins du Château de la Napoule.

The economy of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is diverse, with a strong focus on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The region is home to many agricultural and forestry companies, as well as a thriving tourism industry.

The region is also known for its wine production, with many famous wineries located in the region.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the region’s beautiful beaches, charming towns and villages, and delicious cuisine.

The region is known for its seafood, including lobsters and shrimp, as well as its olive oil and other traditional dishes.

Overall, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination in France.

Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is an overseas region of France located in the Caribbean, comprising a group of islands including the islands of :

• Basse-Terre
• Grande-Terre
• Marie-Galante,

La Désirade, and the Îles des Saintes. The region has a population of approximately 400,000 people.

Guadeloupe is known for its tropical climate and its natural beauty, with a number of popular tourist destinations including the beaches of Grande-Terre, the rainforests of Basse-Terre, and the small islands of La Désirade and the Îles des Saintes.

The region is also home to a number of important natural parks and protected areas, including the Guadeloupe National Park and the Marie-Galante Island Nature Reserve.

The economy of Guadeloupe is largely based on tourism, with a number of hotels and resorts located throughout the region. The region is also home to a number of important industries, including agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing.

Culture and traditions play an important role in the region, with a number of festivals and events taking place throughout the year, including the Fête de la Musique, the Carnival of Guadeloupe, and the Fête des Cuisiniers.

The region is also home to a number of important cultural institutions, including the Musée du Siècle in Pointe-à-Pitre and the Maison de la Culture in Basse-Terre.

Overall, Guadeloupe is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich cultural heritage and a strong economic base. It is known for its natural beauty, its cultural traditions, and its thriving tourism industry.

Martinique

Martinique is an island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, about 1,000 miles southeast of Florida. It is an overseas department of France and is a part of the European Union.

Martinique has a population of about 380,000 people and its capital is Fort-de-France.

Martinique has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and mountains, and is a popular destination for tourists.

Martinique has a diverse culture, with a mix of French, African, and Caribbean influences. French is the official language, but many people also speak Antillean Creole.

The island is known for its rich culinary tradition, with a variety of dishes influenced by French, African, and Caribbean flavors.

In terms of economy, Martinique has a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The main agricultural products are sugarcane, bananas, and flowers, while the main industries include food processing, textiles, and construction.

Martinique is also a popular destination for tourists, with many people visiting for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions.

Overall, Martinique is a vibrant and diverse island, with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a strong economy.

Guyane

Guyane is a region located in the northeastern coast of South America, bordering Brazil and Suriname. It is an overseas department and region of France.

The region has a diverse landscape, with rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas. It is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the jaguar, the scarlet ibis, and the piranha.

The economy of Guyane is largely based on agriculture, forestry, and mining. The region is home to many agricultural and forestry companies, as well as gold and bauxite mines.

Guyane is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the region’s diverse natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The region is home to many indigenous communities, who have a rich cultural tradition and way of life.

Overall, Guyane is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination in South America.

La Réunion

La Réunion is an overseas region of France located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. The region has a population of approximately 850,000 people.

La Réunion is known for its diverse landscape, which includes a number of important natural features, including the Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano, and the Réunion National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The region is also known for its beautiful beaches, including the Plage de l’Ermitage and the Plage de Saint-Leu.

The economy of La Réunion is largely based on tourism, with a number of hotels and resorts located throughout the region. The region is also home to a number of important industries, including agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing.

Culture and traditions play an important role in the region, with a number of festivals and events taking place throughout the year, including :

• La Fête de la Musique
• The Réunion Island Dance Festival
• La Fête du Crabe.

The region is also home to a number of important cultural institutions, including the Musée Léon Dierx in Saint-Denis and the Maison de la Culture in Saint-Pierre.

Overall, La Réunion is a diverse and vibrant region with a rich cultural heritage and a strong economic base. It is known for its natural beauty, its cultural traditions, and its thriving tourism industry.

Mayotte

Mayotte is an island located in the Indian Ocean, about 250 miles northwest of Madagascar. It is an overseas department of France and is a part of the European Union.

Mayotte has a population of about 270,000 people and its capital is Mamoudzou.

Mayotte has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, forests, and lagoons, and is a popular destination for tourists.

Mayotte has a diverse culture, with a mix of French, African, and Arab influences. French is the official language, but many people also speak Shimaore, a language spoken on the island. The island is known for its rich culinary tradition, with a variety of dishes influenced by French, African, and Arab flavors.

In terms of economy, Mayotte has a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The main agricultural products are vanilla, ylang-ylang, and copra, while the main industries include construction and food processing.

Mayotte is also a popular destination for tourists, with many people visiting for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions.

Overall, Mayotte is a vibrant and diverse island, with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a strong economy.

Saint-Barthélemy

Saint-Barthélemy, also known as St. Barth or St. Barts, is a Caribbean island located in the Lesser Antilles, an archipelago in the West Indies. It is an overseas collectivity of France.

The island has a subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury resorts.

The economy of Saint-Barthélemy is largely based on tourism, with many luxury hotels, resorts, and villas located on the island. The island is also home to many small businesses, such as restaurants, shops, and artisanal workshops.

Saint-Barthélemy is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant nightlife.

The island is also known for its delicious cuisine, with many restaurants featuring dishes made with locally-sourced seafood and other ingredients.

Overall, Saint-Barthélemy is a beautiful and vibrant island with a rich history and culture that make it a must-visit destination in the Caribbean.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the regions of France offer a wide variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for visitors to enjoy.

From the bustling city of Paris and the breathtaking beaches of the Côte d’Azur, to the rolling hills of Provence and the rugged mountains of the Pyrenees, each region has its own unique character and charm.

Whether you are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of France, or simply want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the country’s natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in the diverse and fascinating regions of France.