In spite of everything, France remains the world's number one tourist destination, and by and large it remains one of the safer places in the world to visit. it's not hard to understand why. France has it all - or more or less. It has tourist sights for all tastes; it has some of the greatest beaches in Europe, as well as the highest mountains and the finest historic monuments, the most beautiful cities, the most idyllic countryside, the most magnificent castles, the finest rivers, and plenty more, not to mention some of the best restaurants and the finest wines and more hotels than any other country in Europe.
France has something for everyone, which is one of the reasons why it remains the world's number one tourist destination. It has magnificent holiday opportunities for everything from a short weekend city break, in places such as Paris, Nice or Bordeaux, to a relaxed family holiday in a gite in the countryside, a week or two's relaxation by the seaside, or an energetic break hiking, climbing, kayaking or cycling in France's great outdoors.
France has something for everyone, which is one of the reasons why it remains the world's number one tourist destination. It has magnificent holiday opportunities for everything from a short weekend city break, in places such as Paris, Nice or Bordeaux, to a relaxed family holiday in a gite in the countryside, a week or two's relaxation by the seaside, or an energetic break hiking, climbing, kayaking or cycling in France's great outdoors.
Places To Visit In France
1. Paris
Attracting more than 45 million visitors annually, Paris is the world’s most popular tourist destination. Dubbed various nicknames like the City of Lights, City of Love and Capital of Fashion, Paris is the capital city of France, known for its romantic ambiance and command in industries like business, entertainment, gastronomy, fashion and art and culture. In addition to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is also home to some of the world’s finest museums that include the Louvre Museum and Musee d’Orsay.
2. The Charming Countryside of Provence
In contrast to the grey skies of Paris and northern France, Provence basks under the Mediterranean sun. This alluring countryside has a rugged and earthy appeal. The rolling hills are covered with a patchwork of small farms, olive groves, sunflowers, and lavender fields. The air is fragrant with the aroma of rosemary, sage, and thyme, herbs that grow in abundance and are used in the local cuisine. In this dreamy landscape, Impressionist painters found inspiration to create vibrant works of art. Today, tourists marvel at the unspoiled beauty and the historic intrigue of this region. Visitors are enchanted by the villages perchés, fortified medieval villages built on rocky outcrops and steep hilltops, including Saint-Paul-de-Vence; Eze, a perched village overlooking the coastline of the French Riviera; Gordes in the Luberon; Les Baux-de-Provence;and Tourette-sur-Loup. The larger towns also have their charm, found in the tree-shaded streets and outdoor cafés of Aix - en - Provence, traditional festivals in Arles, and the bustling seaport of Maeseilles . Other must-see sites are the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes in Avignon; the glamorous beach resort of Saint - Tropez, formerly a fishing village; and the ancient Roman theater in Orange in the Haunt- Vaucluse area.
3. St. Tropez
Once a peaceful fishing village on the Mediterranean, St. Tropez needed Brigitte Bardot to transform it into a hot jet setters’ playground when she came in 1956 to film And God Created Woman. Celebrities come to be seen, tourists come to see the celebrities, the million-dollar yachts show off in the marina, and the village is bustling with crowds and buzzing with excitement.In the winter when tourists are gone, St. Tropez reverts to its real nature, and you can stroll peacefully through its charming narrow cobblestoned streets, watch fishermen bring in the catch, and enjoy watching old men playing petanque, and you will understand why this quintessential French coastal village inspired greats such as de Maupassant.
4. Nice
Nice is amazing city located in the southern part of the country. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. It is the capital and largest resort of the Côte d’Azur, washed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The city offers to its visitors historic center and the perfect swimming and social life. Nice is ideal for a great holiday with a touch of luxury. Climb the Castle Hill, stroll the streets of the Old Town, walk through Promenade des Anglais or just enjoy the warm sea waters.
5. Mont Saint - Michel
Rising up from the midst of vast mud flats and some of Europe’s most powerful tidal waves is the rocky island of Mont Saint - Michel, located off France’s northwestern coast in Normandy. The tidal island is one of the most popular places to visit in France for its construction of medieval structures built as if stacked upon one another and crowned with the star attraction, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. The awe-inspiring abbey was built by devoted monks in 708 AD after the Bishop of Avranches was allegedly visited by the Archangel Michael.
6. Brittany
A picturesque coastal region steeped in tradition, Brittany owes its existence to the sea. Attesting to the region's maritime heritage are numerous historic port towns: Saint-Malo, surrounded by old ramparts; the medieval capital of Nantes; and the fortified 14th-century Concarneau. The seaside also boasts stylish beach resorts like Dinard on the Côte d'Emeraude and La Baule on the estuary of the Loire. The scenery in this area of northeastern France is dramatic and unspoiled, including secluded sandy beaches and a rocky coastline, where wild Atlantic waves crash against the shore. Quaint centuries-old fishing villages are nestled in quiet bays and on tiny wind-swept offshore islands. Visitors will be equally delighted to travel inland, where ancient towns are scattered across the farmlands and fairy tale castles are tucked away in pristine woodlands.
The Breton culture traces its influence back to the Celts (the local dialect is related to Gaelic) and similar to Ireland , it is a land of mythology and legends. Today, Brittany is strongly Catholic. Locals celebrate ancient religious customs called "pardons," special festivals when townspeople wear traditional costumes. The regional cuisine is equally unique, focused on seafood and savory buckwheat crepes.
7. Cannes
World-famous for its film festival, Cannes is a luxury resort town on the French Riviera overlooking the blue Mediterranean and lined by sandy beaches. The town is known as the playground for the rich and famous, and there is usually a parade of expensive cars cruising along the Boulevard de la Croisette, which curves along the coast.It is lined on one side with beaches covered body to body with lounge chairs and umbrellas and on another with expensive boutiques and chic, palatial hotels. It is glitzy, expensive, showy, and very beautiful with a colorful lively harbor full of luxury yachts, while the charming old quarter of Le Suquet is perfect for strolling around and soaking up the city’s history.
8. Lourdes
Although Lourdes is a gateway to the Pyrenees, it is much better known as a place of pilgrimage and Roman Catholics. Lourdes is the most popular Christian pilgrimage site in the world, it is also a gateway to the valleys of Arrens, Cauterets, Ossau and Gavarnie.
Around 5,000,000 visitors, mainly pilgrims, are coming to this town every year, making Lourdes the 2nd most popular travel destinations in the country (just after Paris). Its main landmark is Rosary Basilica.
9. Lyon
Located in east-central France,Lyon is the capital of the Rhone department in the Rhone-Alpes region. Boasting a long history, Lyon today is the third largest city in France, known for its historic architecture, gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene. Lyon is comprised of various districts, each offering their own share of interesting treasures. For example, Presqu’île is the heart of the city with its restaurants and bars, while Croix-Rousse is known for its hundreds of hidden passageways. Fourvière boasts Roman ruins and Gothic churches, and Brotteaux is the wealthy district containing the beautiful Tete d’Or park.
10. The Alsace Region
The historic cities of Strabourg and Colmar, along with the hundreds of Alsatian villages, have a charming character that is completely distinct from the rest of France. The architecture and ambience of Alsace was influenced by neighboring Germany, as seen in the brightly-painted, half-timbered houses and venerable Gothic churches. Strasbourg enchants visitors with its narrow cobblestone streets, scenic canals, and ornate cathedral. Colmar is the quintessential Alsatian town, full of interesting old churches and traditional houses with flower-bedecked balconies.
Outside these two cities is an unspoiled landscape of vine-covered foothills. Nestled in the valleys and along the Rhine River are tiny storybook hamlets and picturesque villages. The Alsace Villages route is a popular tourist itinerary and is a delightful way to explore the region. Many of the villages, such as Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Eguisheim are listed as the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" (Most Beautiful Villages of France) and many villages are designated "Villages Fleuris" (Flowering Villages) because of the vibrant potted flowers that adorn the homes and streets.
Some Important Tips For Your Tour To France
1. Pace yourself2. Use maps, not a GPS3. Be open to diversions 4. Try your hand at the language5. Don’t overeat6. Walk every day7. Don’t walk and read8. Stay in smaller towns and smaller places9. Carry eight days of clothing10. Be prepared for something to go wrong
France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. There are many reasons why so many people enjoy visiting the diverse country, including the natural beauty, the amazing climate, outdoor recreational activities such as golf courses, art museums and galleries and so much more. There are many different activities that outline the history of the country which are enjoyable to visitors, especially considering its turbulent past.
Along with these things, France is enjoyed and well-known for its cuisine and wines. It is easy to say that French people love to cook and love their food. Meals in France are joyous, long events with families drawn close together for conversation. The typical French meal offers three to four courses which includes cheese before dessert. All meals are accompanied by freshly baked breads and wine. Popular foods in France include chicken in a red wine sauce, known as Coq au vin and sea scallops cooked in butter, or Coquilles Saint-Jacques. The food that is actually on the menu can also be quite diverse and vary according to the region of the country in which you are located.
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