When you explore French cities, the letter P opens up a rich and varied world. From Paris, the dazzling capital, to more discreet gems like Paimpol or Pithiviers, each city tells a story, carries unique traditions, and offers an exciting local immersion. Whether you are a fan of architecture, a gastronomic enthusiast, or simply curious, this alphabetical guide to cities starting with P holds wonderful surprises for you.
Why be interested in cities starting with “P”?
The letter “P” includes iconic destinations and others that are less known but equally captivating. These are places where history, culture, nature, and sometimes even a bit of local magic intersect. Cities starting with P reveal the diversity of French territory: landscapes, regional languages, local festivals, craftsmanship… There is plenty to plan several getaways according to your desires.
The major cities: heritage, dynamism, and character
Paris
Difficult to be more emblematic. Paris is much more than a capital: it is a concentrate of culture, history, modernity, and romance. Between the Seine, museums, typical neighborhoods, and café terraces, the City of Light invites you to stroll and be surprised.
Must-see:
- The Eiffel Tower (unmissable, of course)
- The Louvre, a museum of world treasures
- The Marais neighborhood or Montmartre, for their unique atmospheres
- The hidden alleys, to discover a more confidential Paris
A little wink: Paris is also called “Paname” or “Babylon” in popular and artistic slang.
Perpignan
At the crossroads of France and Spain, Perpignan proudly displays its Catalan roots. You will discover colorful houses, typical markets, a sunny culture, and a unique way of life.
Must-see:
- The Palace of the Kings of Majorca
- The Castillet, an old guard post turned museum
- The beaches of Canet-en-Roussillon just a stone’s throw away
- The still vibrant Catalan traditions
Perpignan is nicknamed “the beautiful Catalan”: all is said.
Poitiers
A city of history and knowledge, Poitiers immerses you in a captivating medieval past while projecting you into the future with the famous Futuroscope park. An interesting duality that attracts families and history enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- The Romanesque churches, including Notre-Dame-la-Grande
- The human-sized historic center
- The Futuroscope, for a family-friendly and interactive experience
- A lively student atmosphere
Other medium-sized cities not to be overlooked
Pau
Between the mountains and the ocean, Pau is a royal city (Henri IV was born there), offering an exceptional view of the Pyrenees. Very pleasant to live in, it combines heritage, green spaces, and southwestern gastronomy.
Périgueux
Heart of Périgord, this city is a gem for lovers of Gallo-Roman history and good food. You will taste truffles, visit colorful markets, and wander through medieval streets.
Pantin, Pontoise, Provins…
- Pantin: a dynamic suburb undergoing transformation, an artistic hub, and street art
- Pontoise: a charming historic town in Val-d’Oise, with a tranquil atmosphere
- Provins: classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved medieval center and historical shows
The little-known gems
Paimpol
Small Breton town with maritime traditions, Paimpol is known for its lively port, authentic charm, and its sea shanty festival. If you love iodine and Breton culture, you will be delighted.
Pithiviers
Famous for its renowned puff pastry, Pithiviers is also a peaceful little corner of Loiret. You can enjoy the calm, stroll through the streets, and taste local craftsmanship.
Pontarlier, Parthenay, Prades, Palaiseau…
These cities also have their own specifics:
- Pontarlier: gateway to Haut-Doubs, in the heart of the mountains
- Parthenay: medieval city of Poitou
- Prades: at the foot of Canigou, in the Catalan Pyrenees
- Palaiseau: a dynamic technopole at the gates of Paris
Non-exhaustive list of cities starting with “P”
Want to complete your list? Here are other cities starting with “P” to discover:
Pamiers, Pégomas, Ploufragan, Plérin, Ploemeur, Puget-sur-Argens, Plaisance-du-Touch, Peypin, Pechbonnieu, Pont-de-Chéruy…
France is literally full of cities starting with P. Each has a story, a terroir, an atmosphere.
Express comparison table
| City | Population | Region | Main asset |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris | 2,140,000 | Île-de-France | Capital, museums, culture |
| Perpignan | 120,000 | Occitanie | Catalan identity |
| Poitiers | 90,000 | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | Medieval history and Futuroscope |
| Pau | 80,000 | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | View of the Pyrenees, heritage |
| Périgueux | 30,000 | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | Truffles, medieval streets |
| Paimpol | 7,000 | Brittany | Port and maritime traditions |
| Pithiviers | 9,000 | Centre-Val de Loire | Renowned pastry |
Unusual anecdotes and nicknames
- Paris: “Paname”, “Babylon” or “the city of a thousand faces”
- Poitiers: known as “the city of a hundred bell towers”
- Perpignan: nicknamed “the very faithful” since the Middle Ages
- Provins: the “city of Champagne fairs”
Must-do activities in a city starting with “P”
- Visit the typical markets: you will taste local products.
- Explore the old streets and historical monuments.
- Participate in a festival (sea shanties, medieval events, street arts…).
- Enjoy the surrounding nature: beaches, mountains, forests.
- Taste the local specialties: pithiviers pie, truffles, Catalan dishes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the largest city starting with P?
→ It’s Paris, unsurprisingly, with over 2 million inhabitants.
Which city starting with P is a UNESCO World Heritage site?
→ Provins, for its remarkably preserved medieval city.
Which cities starting with P are ideal for a weekend?
→ Poitiers (culture + amusement park), Paimpol (Breton authenticity), Perpignan (cultural mix and sunshine).
Are there any cities starting with P known for their gastronomy?
→ Yes: Périgueux (truffles, foie gras), Pithiviers (pastry), Perpignan (Catalan cuisine).
Conclusion
The French cities starting with the letter P are a concentrate of everything that France has to offer: culture, landscapes, gastronomy, heritage, hospitality. Whether you are looking for an exotic weekend or an original itinerary, think of exploring the “P”. These cities have much more to offer than one might imagine at first glance.
So, ready for your next adventure in P?
Céline, a passionate blogger about news and travel, I decode the trends that make the world buzz. Whether it’s exploring hidden corners of the planet or analyzing the hottest topics in the news, I share my discoveries here with a curious and authentic perspective. Join me to travel through words and ideas!
