When people talk about the “states in France,” they are usually referring to the metropolitan France system of administrative regions and departments. Each France region has its own identity, culture, and history. Since 2016, the government has merged some areas into new super-regions, but the names of the old regions are still familiar to many. Every region has a regional council, led by a regional president, which is responsible for policies such as transportation, education, and economic development.

Below is a guide to the official areas of France, broken down by the 18 regions and their French departments, including the overseas territories and the island of Corsica. For a more indepth guide of each region, read my post on regions in France.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

This large region combines mountains, lakes, and vibrant cities like Lyon. Known for skiing in the Alps and natural parks, it also has a rich history of gastronomy and Roman heritage. Departments include Rhône, Savoie, Haute-Savoie, and Puy-de-Dôme.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Famous for medieval abbeys, rolling vineyards, and white wines, this region is a favourite among history lovers and wine enthusiasts. Its departments include Côte-d’Or, Jura, Doubs, and Saône-et-Loire.

Brittany (Bretagne)

A rugged coastal region with Celtic roots, Brittany is celebrated for its distinct culture, language, and crêpes. Departments include Finistère, Morbihan, and Côtes-d’Armor.

Centre-Val de Loire

Best known for the Loire Valley châteaux and Renaissance gardens, this region also plays an important role in energy production. Departments include Indre, Loir-et-Cher, and Eure-et-Loir.

Corsica (Corse)

The island of Corsica is unique, with its mountainous landscapes and Mediterranean lifestyle. It is divided into Haute-Corse and Corse-du-Sud.

Grand Est

Bordering Germany, Belgium, and Luxembourg, Grand Est combines Alsatian timber-framed villages with Champagne vineyards. It has ten departments, including Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, and Ardennes.

Hauts-de-France

This northern region has strong industrial roots and impressive cathedrals. It is home to departments such as Nord, Pas-de-Calais, and Somme.

Île-de-France

Paris dominates this region, which is the heart of culture, finance, and politics. Departments include Seine-et-Marne, Yvelines, and Val-de-Marne.

Normandy (Normandie)

Known for the D-Day landing beaches, apple orchards, and half-timbered houses, Normandy is rich in maritime history. Departments include Calvados, Manche, and Seine-Maritime.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Stretching from the Atlantic coast to the Pyrenees, this region is the largest in France. It includes Dordogne, Gironde, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques.

Occitanie

Occitanie combines Mediterranean beaches, Roman monuments like the Pont du Gard, and Pyrenean peaks. Departments include Hérault, Aude, and Haute-Garonne.

Pays de la Loire

Known for Nantes, castles, and sandy beaches, this region has departments such as Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, and Vendée.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

This sun-drenched region is home to lavender fields, Nice, and the glamour of Cannes. Its departments include Bouches-du-Rhône, Alpes-Maritimes, and Vaucluse.

Overseas Regions (Départements d’outre-mer)

France also includes five overseas regions: Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte, and French Guiana. These areas contribute to the cultural diversity of France.

Conclusion

France’s regions and departments each carry their own character and heritage, from mountain landscapes to vineyard plains. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nature, exploring the French regions provides endless variety. The administrative structure may have changed over time, but the cultural richness of the areas of France remains timeless.