France is considered one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and features varied culture, traditions, and a mix of modern and ancient architecture. The country can be explored in many ways including a drive across the country or through several documentaries. Ever since my return from my trip to France last 2019, I’ve been longing to go back. There are tons of picturesque places to explore and a lot more yummy food to indulge in. Here are 10 incredible books set in France to satisfy your wanderlust.

1. You Had Me at Bonjour by Jennifer Bohnet

If you love books set in France, You Had Me at Bonjour is a charming escape to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence. The story follows best friends Jess and Ginny, who leave their old lives in England behind for a fresh start in a quaint French town. As they settle in, they navigate new friendships, unexpected romance, and the joys (and challenges!) of expat life. With laughter, heartwarming moments, and a touch of adventure, their journey proves that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.

Why Read It?

This novel is perfect for anyone who dreams of a slower, more romantic life in France. Jennifer Bohnet masterfully brings the French countryside to life, making you feel as if you’re sipping café au lait in a charming village square. With its uplifting themes of friendship, second chances, and self-discovery, You Had Me at Bonjour is a delightful feel-good read for fans of cozy, escapist fiction.

2. Summer at the Little French Cafe by Karen Clarke

If you love books set in France, get ready for a delightful escape to the charming seaside village of Bellefontaine! Marcie needs a fresh start, so she takes a summer job at a picturesque little café, hoping for a peaceful break. But life in this idyllic French town is anything but quiet—especially when she meets an intriguing artist with a few secrets of his own. As she navigates quirky locals, delicious pastries, and unexpected romance, Marcie realizes that sometimes, the best adventures come when you least expect them. This is one of those books set in France that will make you dream of long, lazy afternoons by the sea!

Why Read It?

This book is the perfect feel-good read, full of warmth, humor, and that irresistible French charm. Karen Clarke’s storytelling will transport you straight to a sun-drenched café terrace, where love, laughter, and a few surprises are always on the menu. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a travel dreamer, or just need a cheerful escape, Summer at the Little French Café is a treat you won’t want to miss!

3. A Year In The Merde by Stephen Clarke

If you enjoy laugh-out-loud books set in France, this witty and irreverent novel is a must-read! A Year in the Merde follows the misadventures of Paul West, a young Englishman who moves to Paris for what he thinks will be a dream job. Instead, he’s thrown into the chaos of French bureaucracy, cultural clashes, and a rollercoaster of romantic escapades. Along the way, he navigates everything from bizarre business etiquette to the quirks of Parisian landlords—all while trying (and failing) to master the art of being French. This is one of those books set in France that perfectly captures the humor and frustration of expat life in the City of Light.

Why Read It?

Stephen Clarke’s sharp wit and hilarious observations make this book an absolute joy for anyone who loves France—or just enjoys a good comedy of errors. It’s packed with funny cultural insights, relatable expat struggles, and plenty of French charm (with a side of snark). Whether you’ve lived abroad or just dream of Parisian adventures, A Year in the Merde is a delightful and highly entertaining read!

4. A Year In Provence by Peter Mayle

If you adore books set in France, this charming memoir will transport you straight to the sun-drenched countryside of Provence! Peter Mayle and his wife trade their hectic English life for a dream home in a quaint French village, only to discover that life in Provence comes with its own delightful quirks. From dealing with eccentric locals and slow-moving renovations to savoring long, wine-filled lunches, Mayle’s journey is a humorous and heartwarming exploration of what it truly means to embrace the Provençal way of life. This is one of those books set in France that perfectly captures the beauty, frustrations, and pure joy of starting fresh in a new culture.

Why Read It?

Mayle’s vivid storytelling and witty observations make this book a delightful escape for anyone who dreams of a slower, more flavorful life in the French countryside. Whether you love travel, food, or simply enjoy a good laugh, A Year in Provence is the perfect mix of humor, culture, and stunning landscapes. Grab a glass of wine, sit back, and get ready to fall in love with Provence.

5. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo

If you love books set in France, this timeless classic will sweep you into the heart of medieval Paris! The Hunchback of Notre-Dame tells the tragic yet beautiful story of Quasimodo, the lonely and deformed bell-ringer of Notre-Dame Cathedral, and his devotion to the kind-hearted gypsy, Esmeralda. Their lives become entangled in a dramatic tale of love, obsession, and fate, all set against the breathtaking yet brutal backdrop of 15th-century Paris. As one of the most famous books set in France, this novel masterfully blends history, romance, and social commentary, making it as thought-provoking as it is unforgettable.

Why Read It?

Victor Hugo’s rich storytelling brings Notre-Dame and medieval Paris to life in a way that few novels can. It’s a powerful exploration of love, beauty, and the struggles of the outcast, wrapped in a gripping narrative filled with passion and intrigue. Whether you’re drawn to gothic architecture, complex characters, or epic historical tales, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame is a literary masterpiece that should be on every reader’s list!

You might also like: 10 Books Set in New York to Satisfy Your Wanderlust

6. Anna and The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

If you’re a fan of swoon-worthy romance and books set in France, this charming novel is perfect for you! Anna and the French Kiss follows Anna, an American teenager who is reluctantly sent to a prestigious boarding school in Paris. At first, she’s homesick and unsure about her new life, but everything changes when she meets the charming, witty, and oh-so-handsome Étienne St. Clair. As their friendship deepens, so do Anna’s feelings, leading to a heart-fluttering romance set against the dreamy streets of Paris. This is one of those books set in France that will make you wish you were strolling along the Seine, enjoying a café au lait, and falling in love under the city lights.

Why Read It?

Stephanie Perkins delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and romance that will keep you hooked from start to finish. If you adore books set in France, where love and adventure unfold in the most magical ways, this story is a must-read! The Parisian setting, complete with charming cafés and iconic landmarks, adds an irresistible touch to Anna’s journey of self-discovery and first love. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just looking for a feel-good escape, Anna and the French Kiss will leave you smiling long after you turn the last page.

7. The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George

If you adore heartfelt stories and books set in France, this novel is a literary gem you won’t want to miss! The Little Paris Bookshop follows Jean Perdu, a Parisian bookseller who doesn’t just sell books—he prescribes them like medicine for the soul. But while he helps others heal through literature, his own heart remains broken. One day, he sets sail on his floating bookshop along the Seine, embarking on a journey that takes him through picturesque villages and landscapes, meeting unforgettable characters along the way. As one of the most enchanting books set in France, this story beautifully explores love, loss, and the power of books to mend even the deepest wounds.

Why Read It?

For anyone who loves books set in France, where romance, self-discovery, and a touch of magic blend seamlessly, this novel is a must-read! Nina George’s poetic storytelling transports you to charming French towns, where every turn of the page feels like a warm embrace. If you believe in the healing power of books and dream of a life filled with adventure, love, and second chances, The Little Paris Bookshop will capture your heart and stay with you long after you close the cover.

8. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

If you love fast-paced thrillers and books set in France, The Da Vinci Code is an electrifying read! The story follows symbologist Robert Langdon, who finds himself caught in a deadly mystery after a shocking murder inside the Louvre Museum. Teaming up with the brilliant cryptologist Sophie Neveu, he embarks on a race against time to unravel hidden codes, ancient secrets, and a conspiracy that could shake the foundations of history. As they follow a trail of clues left by Leonardo da Vinci himself, they navigate some of the most iconic locations in Paris. This is one of those books set in France that seamlessly blends history, art, and suspense, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.

Why Read It?

If you enjoy gripping mysteries, historical intrigue, and intellectual puzzles, this novel is a must-read! For fans of books set in France, the detailed descriptions of Parisian landmarks—like the Louvre, Saint-Sulpice, and the mysterious Priory of Sion—add an extra layer of excitement. Dan Brown masterfully weaves fact and fiction, making you question everything you thought you knew about history. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for an unputdownable thriller, The Da Vinci Code will keep you turning pages late into the night!

9. Chocolat by Joanne Harris

If you love books set in France, filled with charm, magic, and mouthwatering delights, Chocolat is a must-read! The story follows Vianne Rocher, a free-spirited chocolatier who arrives in the quiet, traditional village of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes with her young daughter. She opens a chocolate shop just as Lent begins, stirring curiosity, temptation, and even resistance from the town’s conservative priest. But as the aroma of her exquisite confections fills the air, Vianne’s presence begins to awaken hidden desires and long-buried secrets. This is one of those books set in France that perfectly captures the beauty of small-town life, the power of indulgence, and the magic of following your own path.

Why Read It?

For anyone who adores rich storytelling and enchanting books set in France, this novel is a treat for the senses. Joanne Harris masterfully weaves themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery with the irresistible backdrop of a cozy French village. The vivid descriptions of chocolate-making will leave you craving sweet delights, while the heartwarming characters make this story unforgettable. If you believe in the magic of good food, good company, and standing up for what you believe in, Chocolat is the perfect book to savor.

10. Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

If you enjoy classic books set in France, Madame Bovary is a must-read! This timeless novel follows Emma Bovary, a young woman trapped in a dull provincial marriage, longing for passion, luxury, and excitement. Desperate to escape her ordinary life, she indulges in extravagant spending and dangerous affairs, only to find that reality never quite matches her romantic fantasies. As one of the most famous books set in France, Flaubert’s masterpiece paints a vivid picture of 19th-century society, exploring love, desire, and the consequences of chasing impossible dreams.

Why Read It?

For lovers of beautifully written books set in France, Madame Bovary is a literary treasure. Gustave Flaubert’s rich prose and psychological depth make Emma’s story both captivating and heartbreaking. The novel is a brilliant critique of society’s expectations, offering timeless insights into human nature and the pursuit of happiness. Whether you love dramatic, thought-provoking tales or just want to dive into one of the greatest books set in France, this novel is an unforgettable read!

Et voila! 10 magnifique books set in France satisfy your wanderlust. Which one will you read first? What are the books that you love that’s not on the list? I’d like to know by commenting below!