Fabulous for foodies

Top five gastronomic city breaks in France
There’s nothing quite like settling down to a delicious local speciality in a bustling city bistro for a true taste of France

1. Lyon, Rhône
The foodie capital of France may be two millennia old but the food cooked up in its famously cosy bouchon restaurants is as fresh as can be. Local dishes include andouillette and St Marcellin cheese, while top-flight eateries such as the legendary Paul Bocuse offer more sophisticated fare.

2. Bordeaux, Gironde
The epicentre of the red wine world and rejuvenated upmarket short break destination is naturally disposed to providing superb food, with local Pauillac lamb, oysters from Arcachon or steak with Bordelaise sauce starring on the vibrant dining scene. A top pick for foodies!

3. Dijon, Côte d’Or
A beautiful, historic Burgundy city with a culinary reputation to match. The eponymous moutarde needs no introduction (buy the fiery stuff in situ) but gingerbread and crème de cassis are other must-buys.

4. Bayonne, Pays BasqueWith its revered cured hams, chocolate and red peppers from nearby Espelette, the Basque heartland is fiercely proud of its offerings. A perfect city for linking food and tradition.

5. Toulouse, Haute-Garonne
Cassoulet, foie gras and a drop of Armagnac will set you up nicely for a tour of the Pink City!