An Insider's Guide to Celebrating Bastille Day the French Way

Whether you're in Provence, Poitiers or Paris, remember to look up during your travels. You may glimpse a handsome façade, a stone carving or an ironwork balcony. Knowing a little about French architecture helps you forge a deep connection to the past – it’s right there, just above your head!

The Côte de Granit Rose gets its distinctive hue from high-potassium feldspar in the granite, coloured coppery-pink by iron oxide impurities. Mixed with mica and quartz, the rocks also display dark and grey tones that contrast with the pink. Formed around 300 million years ago, the cliffs have been slowly eroded by wind, waves and tides, revealing the fantastical shapes seen today. Their colour shifts with the light – from delicate rose-gold at dawn to orange-red at sunset – creating the coast’s ever-changing palette.

The daily market is one of the most enduring French traditions, and perhaps the easiest for travellers to experience. Markets are less about shopping and more about community. They are a weekly or even daily appointment where neighbours catch up, artisans present their seasonal produce and chefs select the best of the terroir before the tourists arrive. Expect to find crusty French breads still warm from the oven, pungent French cheeses from local farms and stalls selling heritage tomato varieties you will seldom see in supermarkets. Many regions have market-specific customs: in the markets of Provence, early morning bargaining is common, while in Brittany fishmongers may display handwritten notes about the boats that landed their catch. Where to experience it: Almost every town has a market. Larger ones like Sarlat, Beaune or Dieppe are reachable by regional train from Paris within 2.5 to 3 hours. Local tip: Arrive before 10am for the freshest produce and a more local atmosphere.

Now a major tourist attraction in the south of France as well as an homage to slow travel and carefully protected conservation site, the bizarre Colorado Provençal is a land stained by iron-rich ochre in shades from deep rust to canary yellow.

In a world of fast fashion and throwaway goods, French craftsmanship stands apart – shaped by skilled hands, time-honoured techniques and a pride passed down through generations. This savoir-faire is woven into France’s cultural identity, giving everyday objects a soul and a story: leather that improves with time, textiles woven with meaning, ceramics fired by hand and heritage. From iconic Parisian ateliers to hidden rural workshops, here are nine artisanal experiences that invite you to see France through its local crafts.

Forget what you know about Ankara Kızılay. This is how to explore the best old markets and key landmarks that make up the heart and soul of the city.

Each February, the French Riviera transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour as Nice hosts one of the world's oldest and most flamboyant carnivals. For two weeks, enormous papier-mâché floats parade along the Promenade des Anglais, while hundreds of performers and acrobats in fantastical costumes dance through streets showered with confetti and flower petals. Local boulangeries sell socca (chickpea flour pancakes) and pan bagnat (Niçois-style tuna sandwiches) to fuel the festival, and bars overflow with revellers sipping rosé and pastis.

Imagine strolling through the cobblestone streets of Lyon, admiring its Renaissance buildings, when a discreetly marked doorway catches your eye. Feeling curious, you step through – and suddenly, you're in a hidden world of spiraling stairwells, quiet courtyards and ancient corridors. Welcome to Lyon’s traboules, the city’s secret passageways. This unique network of hidden paths are not only handy short cuts; they've borne witness to centuries of historic moments, from the silk trade to World War II. Each door is like stepping into a time machine that reveals its own special story. So, grab a map, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to set off on a journey of discovery.

Dive into traditional Basque culture in France, immersing yourself in the region's lively festivals, ancient sports, local food, music and handicrafts.

Our guide to villages in France takes you on a journey through history, culture and cuisine, inviting you to slow down and savour authentic rural life.

Book a Mercure hotel to take a deep dive into fragrant Provence markets – the best way to discover your favourite local specialities.

Book a Mercure hotel as your base for exploring spectacular Nice countryside, from visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence to discovering the perfumeries of Grasse.

Find the best beaches in Brittany, France, whether you're looking for top seaside spots, family-friendly shores or tranquil hidden gems.

Follow Mecure's guide to shopping for Parisian souvenirs and bring home unique mementoes of your trip to the City of Light.

Want to see the best Emily in Paris filming locations? Add our two-day itinerary to your Paris sightseeing list and discover the city with Emily.

From laid-back neighbourhoods to vineyards, parks and even cemeteries, these are the most peaceful walking tours in Paris.

Like every big city, Paris has individual neighbourhoods with distinct vibes to them. If you’re looking for dressy and glamorous dining or nightclubs, the elegant Avenue des Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement is your best option – and prices are correspondingly high. Charming Le Marais (4th) is the hub of the city’s gay scene. The Latin Quarter (5th and 6th) is best for casual drinks in crowded bars, while Bastille (11th) is known for anything from chic bistros and cocktail bars to intimate jazz clubs always packed with a young crowd. The edgy bars along Canal Saint-Martin are the preserve of monied 30-something urbanites, but if you prefer to do your nightlife a bit more offbeat, hipster Belleville in the 20th arrondissement is known for its affordable late-night cafés and boho bars with live music. Wherever you end up, Paris nightlife starts late, with much of the action taking place well after 10pm and into the early hours. If you're drinking, do remember to plan your journey home beforehand so you can have a safe but fun evening.  

Dive into the artistry, history and cultural significance of Rome’s many fountains, from the film-worthy to the lesser-known.

Plan your Bordeaux cycling adventure with Mercure's guide to the best routes, bike rentals, guided tours and cycle-friendly hotels in Bordeaux city.

Schönbrunn might be Vienna’s crown jewel when it comes to palaces, but some of the city’s lesser-known “Palais” can give the Baroque beauty a run for its money. If you enjoy marvelling at ornate façades and gilded halls – but aren’t too keen on waiting in long queues – these quieter, timeless treasures are the perfect treat. Each one offers plenty of grand architecture, fascinating stories and lingering memories. They aren’t just buildings after all, they’re local guides that give you glimpses of the city’s glorious past.

Day trips from Munich allow you to see Alpine villages, timeless castles, Germany's highest peak and Bavarian lakes from the comfort of your Mercure base.

Uncover five secrets of underground Rome: Read Mercure’s guide to the catacombs and crypts that lie beneath the streets of the Eternal City.

When you step inside a café in Vienna for the first time, you don’t know what you’ll get. Sure, you may know you’re going to order a melange or a double espresso, but everything else that comes with it is likely to bowl you over. The glinting chandeliers, velvet banquettes, marble-topped tables and the pastries that look like they belong in a museum. And, most of all, the smell. The smell that feels like an embrace you’re only released from when you leave – hours later. Once you’ve soaked up centuries of whispers, laughter and debates. Once you’ve realised you’ll come back one day. Ready to discover your new favourite corner? Let five of the best cafés in Vienna work their charm on you.

Find a one-of-a-kind treasure at Rome's best vintage shops with Mercure's guide to elegant boutiques, markets and inexpensive thrift stores.

No stay in Nice is complete without a visit to its beautiful historic quarter. Old Nice (Vieux Nice) is a captivating neighbourhood at the heart of this glamorous Mediterranean city. As you step into its narrow, winding streets, you're immediately transported to a world where history, culture and everyday life meet in one vibrant mix. Elegant Baroque buildings in shades of ochre yellows, muted oranges and pale pinks dominate here, a legacy of Italian influence during the 17th and 18th centuries. These historic buildings, with their ornate columns and weathered façades, tell stories of the city’s importance as a trading port. Tiny cobblestone streets, so narrow that you could almost stretch your arms out and touch either side, are lined with charming boutiques, artisan shops, traditional cafés and hidden squares that suddenly open up like unexpected treasures. Old Nice buzzes with an infectious energy that's hard to find anywhere else. Local markets overflow with fresh produce, aromatic herbs and regional delicacies. Cafés spill out onto the streets, with locals and visitors alike chatting and laughing as they enjoy coffee, pastis or a leisurely lunch. In the evening, fun-seekers come to hang out in relaxed bars, where people-watching is a favourite pastime. Amid the soft lighting illuminating the historic façades, you feel, just for a while, like you’re on a truly magical journey of local discovery.

Most people tend to see markets as places for shopping. You may do, too. But that will change as soon as you visit some in Vienna and learn that markets are in fact an experience – indeed, a living postcard. If you want to know the real Vienna, beyond Schönbrunn and Sachertorte, this is where you find it. These markets are like mini-worlds within the city, each with its own special atmosphere. So put on your comfiest shoes, and bring a big bag and an even bigger appetite as we take you on an insider tour of some of Vienna's best markets.

Paris didn’t invent coffee houses. But in no other city has café culture come to embody so much, from Left-Bank intellectualism to the romance of the Impressionists, the glory of the Belle Époque and the revolutionary spirit of the 1960s.  Although modern café chains dot the streets of Paris much like any other European city, the classical Parisian café – with its iconic woven chairs and striped awnings – remains ubiquitous. Even in tourist-filled areas such as Montmartre and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you'll find them filled with locals, particularly in the early morning when workers rush in for a quick espresso. Or in the evening, when lingering over a café crème and conversation is the perfect way to segue into Paris by night.

Lyon, France's third-largest city, might be best known for its decadent gastronomy but it's also a World Heritage Site with a fascinating history.  The capital of Gaul during the Roman Empire, Lyon boasts some of the country's most spectacular Roman ruins, from monumental amphitheatres to sprawling ancient forums. Built upon this legacy is a medieval cityscape of winding alleys, Gothic cathedrals and the intriguing traboules – hidden passageways offering a window into life in the Middle Ages.  Exploring Lyon's ancient sights is more than just a history lesson; it’s a journey to the roots of Western civilisation, where every corner has a story waiting to be uncovered. 

Discover Trastevere district in Rome, where local life plays out amongst a labyrinth of cobbled backstreets, ochre palazzi and ivy-clad facades.

Just steps away from Mercure Dunkerque, right on the marina, meet Christophe Patou, a native from the region and a sailor with 25 years of experience. He'll be your guide on this experience to share his passion for the North Sea, its vibrant colors, captivating contrasts, and hidden treasures. Prepare for a voyage filled with the sailor's anecdotes, historical insights about the harbor of Dunkirk, and a lot of information about the city and all its enigmatic secrets. You’ll board the Snitch, his boat, and set sail for a journey of pleasures. After your nautical exploration, immerse yourselves into a sea-infused apéritif, savoring locally caught fishes, seasonal products, while upholding eco-friendly practices. Throughout your journey, you'll be fully immersed in the captivating atmosphere of Dunkirk. Recommended by Mercure Dunkerque Centre Gare. Sailboat Tour and Apéritif with Christophe Patou From 40€ per person Rue de l'Aviso l'Impétueuse, 59140 Dunkerque Steps away from the hotel Book directly on their website.

There's nothing like visiting Oxford on board a regatta to cross the river in the afternoon. Take advantage of this out of time moment to explore the

Nestled in a region steeped in history, Clairmarais Abbey, built in 1140 and renovated in the 17th century, bears witness to a rich historical heritag

At the summit of the Dignitaries’s tower, offering a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings, Maison Brémond warmly welcomes guests to have an apéritif infused with the flavors of the South. Nestled in Avignon, you will be at an ideal spot to gaze upon the Pont d’Avignon while feeling the mistral breeze along the banks of the Rhône. Maison Brémond is the perfect delicatessen store to discover some beloved Provencal products, curated by Malaise Guigon, the boutique’s owner.  Embark on an immersive romantic apéritif journey from the heart of the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic building in Europe. Amidst toast drizzled with local olive oil, artisanal terrine, lavender flowers, câlissons, and nougats, you will discover the traditional flavors of Provence. To accompany this apéritif, you will have the opportunity to savor a local wine, curated by Thibault Seignon, an Avignon sommelier. Recommended by Mercure Pont d'Avignon Centre. Maison Brémond 30-50 EUR per person Maison Brémond, 3 Rue du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France 300 meters from the hotel (walking distance) Book directly on their website.

The Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park is an open-air museum covering an area of 22 hectares, featuring over 70 historic wooden buildings from the region. The park regularly hosts various workshops, shows, and outdoors events, including Craft Day, Honey Day or the Harvest Festival. Additionally, some catering activities are still carried out in the Historic Inn. Take the opportunity to partake in diverse activities. You can engage in a culinary workshop organized by one of the farmsteads after visiting the museum. Here, you can learn the recipe for the traditional Silesian Dish known as “Karminadle with Panczkraut”, a delightful fried meat dish with potatoes and cabbage, concocted by families during traditional celebrations. Recommended by Mercure Katowice Centrum. Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park Museum PLN 10 Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park, Parkowa 25, 41-500 Chorzów, Poland 6,8 km from the hotel Book directly on the website  

Hard to think of a better place for a vodka museum than one where the walls themselves serve as a testament of the years when numerous laborers were involved in vodka production. The neighborhood of Krakow Fabryczna is a place with more than 100 years of history, where the Polmos Vodka Factory has been based for the last century. Fabryczna 13 offers you a history lesson while tasting regional flavors and local experiences. The museum tour through several centuries of Polish liquor history begins with a film screening in an intimate cinema room. Then, during the hour-long tour, you are invited to interact with exhibits and multimedia stations. A guide is here to explain the story of the development of distillation over the centuries. You will also learn about ancient production methods, recipes, and the place of vodka in Polish history, culture and in the economy. Fabryczna 13 is the only museum which boasts a collection of authentic distillery equipment forming a complete technological line to produce spirit. You will end this experience by a short tasting. Recommended by Mercure Krakow Fabryczna. Vodka Factory museum PLN 79 Fabryczna 13, 31-553 Kraków, Poland 200 m from the hotel Book by calling the 881970610 or directly on the website  

The Arqueixal farm was born from an idea 25 years ago. In order to preserve the traditional way of life and production, a local family decided to reno

The Basque country is renowned for its many traditions, culture, identity and… cider. Located in Astigarraga, near San Sebastian, Sagardoetxea is a cider museum where the local traditional beverage is made with fermented apples. This is also the perfect place to learn more about the history and curiosities of traditional Basque cider culture. Start your experience with a tour of the apple orchards to learn more about the different varieties, how to pick and process them. Then, visit the Cider Museum to learn about its history & culture and discover some secrets behind the production. Finally, end your day with a cider tasting accompanied by traditional dishes such as a salted cod omelette or quince cheese with walnuts. Recommended by Mercure San Sebastian Monte Igualdo. Sagardoetxea - Museo de la Sidra Vasca Visit and tasting : EUR 5 per person Kale Nagusia Kalea, 48, 20115 Astigarraga, Gipuzkoa 10km from the hotel Buy tickets directly at the museum

The Capo market is a must-see in Palermo. Located in an ancient district known as Seralcadio, the Capo market is the most authentic and traditional market in town. It offers insights into the history of Palermo, formerly under Arab domination. Enter through the famous Porta Carini and immerse yourself in the gastronomy, flavors, colors and history of Palermo.  Discover the Capo market, a truly lively landmark, by first smelling the various odors emanating from the many stations selling typical Sicilian food. Then take a minute to talk with the vendors, who will speak with passion about their local products, harvested or made with care each day. Finally, taste what they have to offer, such as Arancina, a saffron rice ball filled with peas, meat and cheese and fried in breadcrumbs. Recommended by Mercure Palermo Centro. Capo Market Tour Free Via Cappuccinelle, 90138 Palermo PA, Italy 1 km from the hotel No booking necessary

GDR architecture encapsulates life in East Berlin during the Cold War, from iconic structures to everyday apartments. Discover five important landmarks.

When most people think of Paris, they picture the Eiffel Tower’s glittering lights, romantic strolls along the Seine and world-renowned museums like the Louvre. But beneath the surface of this iconic city lies a vibrant underground culture – a haven for artistic subcultures, independent venues and offbeat creativity that thrives away from the tourist crowds. Whether you’re a music lover, an eco-conscious traveller or an art enthusiast, Paris’s underground scene offers a rewarding and creative alternative to its postcard-perfect landmarks.

Explore Munich's palaces, from Baroque masterpieces like Nymphenburg Palace to lesser-known but equally stunning hidden gems like Blutenburg Castle.

Underground, Berlin is dark, mysterious and captivating, much like the city's history. Discover the top five tours you can take of subterranean Berlin.

Berlin nightlife is dynamic, from concerts and midnight coffee shops to secretive bars to late-night spas. Discover it all with our five essential tips.

Go off the beaten path as you explore traditional Munich breweries and beer halls that offer Bavarian brews, rich history and authentic local culture.

Berlin is a busy city. It may not have quite the same pace as, say, London, but the streets are bustling and there’s a constant flow of people. You can make the hum fade into the distance, however, by visiting Berlin’s botanic gardens and public parks. All of a sudden, all you hear is leaves rustling and birds chirping. It’s time for a change of pace – here are our recommendations of the best Berlin botanic gardens and parks, famous ones and hidden gems, for you to visit.

Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Grand Est region, is a treasure trove of European history, culture and cuisine. It was originally a Celtic village and later a Roman garrison town. The Franks captured the city in the fifth century and renamed it "Strateburgum", which explains the origin of its name. While there's plenty to discover in this beautiful city, it's also a springboard to exploring Germany just across the iconic River Rhine. This fascinating region is defined by a unique blend of French and German influences, which you can experience on one of these day trips from Strasbourg.

You've spent the morning shopping the bustling Champs-Elysées or exploring the vibrant streets of Montmartre. You could do with a tranquil moment to reflect on the beauty of Paris, surrounded by nature and open skies.  The Luxembourg Gardens, with their classic formal-garden symmetry, is perfect for this purpose, and the masterfully landscaped Jardin des Tuileries is breathtaking. But for peace and tranquility away from the crowds, take a detour to the hidden gardens of Paris. 

Keen to discover some hidden gems in Rome? Read Mercure’s ultimate guide to four secret piazzas tucked into the Eternal City’s back alleys.

Discover Munich’s lesser-known festivals, which showcase the city’s vibrant cultural calendar by celebrating film, food, art and music.

Explore the elegant covered passages of Paris with Mercure's guide to the city's five best shopping, dining and entertainment arcades.

Searching for the best sunset in the world? You may just find it in Nice. But this glamorous hangout on the Côte d’Azur in France isn’t just a place to appreciate golden hour – from dawn to dusk, the coastal city is sure to impress, whether you’re visiting in the height of summer, or on quieter, cooler days over winter. So how do you really appreciate its beauty? Look no further than our guide to Nice’s showstopping seafront.

Explore Vienna’s thriving modern art scene, where avant-garde creativity provides an alternative perspective to its classical art heritage.

While most of us associate Cannes with flashbulbs and fame, there is a quieter kind of magic to this Riviera gem, one that reveals itself best outside the whirlwind of the film festival. Yes, La Croisette shimmers year-round with French Riviera glamour, but step back from the spotlight and you'll discover a different Cannes: one of Provençal markets, hidden squares and sun-drenched alleyways where everyday life still unfolds. Base yourself at a hotel in the heart of the French Riviera, and get ready to explore Cannes' iconic landmarks and little-known gems.

Winding through the heart of Munich, the Isar River has been central to the city's identity for centuries. Flowing from the Alps in Austria to the Danube near Deggendorf, the Isar is not only a vital water source and transportation route, but it offers the city's residents a sanctuary for recreation and relaxation. From tranquil riverside parks and sandy island beaches to clear-water swimming spots and winding cycling paths, you could easily spend a day – or even a week – uncovering its charms.

Connecting the Left and Right Banks of Paris, 37 bridges of all ages and designs today span the Seine as it meanders 13km through the city. Each – whether serenely neoclassical, flamboyantly art nouveau or sleek and contemporary – has its own unique tale to tell, all contributing to the rich and timeless narrative of beautiful Paris.

Capital of France's Alsace region, on the banks of the River Rhine, Strasbourg is renowned for its picturesque waterways. However, the rivers and canals aren't just scenic: they were vital hubs for trade, industry and transportation that shaped the city for centuries. Today, boat tours offer an immersive and relaxing way to explore Strasbourg's layered history. Whether you’re cruising through the enchanting canals of La Petite France or sailing down the River Ill, exploring by boat reveals a side to the city that you won't experience by walking. So, prepare to give your feet a rest, sit back and enjoy the ride.

Read our guide to Berlin street art and discover where to find the best murals, learn its fascinating history and get to know iconic graffiti artists.

Explore Bordeaux's best markets, a reflection of the city's rich culinary heritage and cultural charm. Find an authentic taste of Bordeaux’s lifestyle.

Vienna is most associated with culture, art and cafés. But do you ever think of the city as the perfect place to connect with nature? Well, Vienna has a way of surprising you, and some of its best-kept secrets are hiding in plain sight. There are gardens and courtyards tucked away in the most unexpected places where you can enjoy the peaceful side of the city – if you just know where to look.