3Cordes-sur-Ciel, France

If you’re looking for charming hidden gems, France has its very own list of cultural heritage villages, “The Most Beautiful Villages in France.”

Cordes-sur-Ciel, which means ” Cordes in the sky,” is as atmospheric as it sounds—this medieval town is literally tucked behind the clouds in the morning, which is the most magical time to visit. Combine a tour of Cordes-sur-Ciel from Toulouse with a visit to nearby Albi, known for its UNESCO–listed town and magnificent Gothic cathedral.