France is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, haute couture fashion shows and stunning landmarks. If you’re not already acquainted with the country, here are a few things to know before making your travel arrangements.
Start by avoiding France during school holidays, as these tend to be very busy and can significantly raise prices for train and plane fares.
Paris
Paris, the capital of France, has had an immense impact on society. It has become a center for education, entertainment, media production, business opportunities, fashion trends and politics alike – leaving its mark everywhere it goes.
Paris is an amazing destination for tourists of all ages to discover. It boasts monuments and buildings from centuries past, making it a city with something for everyone.
One of the best activities to do in Paris is taking a leisurely walk along the banks of the Seine. This is an ideal way to admire all of Paris’ iconic landmarks.
Another wonderful activity to do in Paris is visiting a museum. There are so many to choose from and each has its own charm.
For instance, the Musee d’Orsay houses some of Europe’s best impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Centre Pompidou boasts an extensive collection of contemporary art, while Louvre houses some of history’s most celebrated artworks.
The French Riviera
The French Riviera, also known as the Cote d’Azur, is an idyllic seaside destination that stretches from St-Tropez up to Italy’s border. It’s renowned for its breathtaking beaches, designer bars, coastal trails, offshore islands, luxury hotels and belle epoque villas.
On your trip to the French Riviera, be sure not to miss some of its world-renowned museums and cultural attractions. Places like Cagnes-sur-Mer, Antibes, Nice, and Cannes are all worth visiting during your stay.
The Riviera is an enchanting region, brimming with history and culture that dates back to the Romans and Phocean Greeks. Art lovers will also find plenty of attractions here; numerous galleries and museums showcase famous works from Picasso, Matisse, Renoir, and others.
Provence
Provence is a must-visit region for anyone interested in French culture. It’s renowned for its picturesque landscapes, from fields of lavender and sunflowers to endless coastal stretches.
Provence is home to many renowned artists, making it a prime destination for those interested in painting. Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, Cezanne and Miro all lived here and their works can be explored at numerous museums.
If you’re looking to escape the city for a while, why not take a day trip to the stunning Luberon wine region? This UNESCO world heritage site is renowned for its rose-vineyards and offers visitors an opportunity to sample some of France’s finest wines.
If you want to explore more of the region, hiking up Mount Faron offers stunning panoramic views across Provence. Enjoy some sunshine while taking in the picturesque landscape!
Normandy
Normandy, located in northern France, is a region of breathtaking coastlines, medieval towns and idyllic fishing ports. Home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, picturesque countryside walks, invigorating coastal hikes and cycle routes as well as vibrant historical cities, Normandy has something for everyone!
Mont-Saint-Michel, an ancient abbey perched atop a rocky island in Europe, is one of Europe’s most iconic sights. History buffs and gothic art admirers alike should not miss this magnificent piece of architecture.
Chartres, home to the iconic “Chartres blue” cathedral, is another must-visit while traveling through Normandy – especially during summer when it glistens with an incredible light show.
Finally, Rouen is a medieval city full of captivating history and architecture. The town centre features majestic cathedrals as well as the monument commemorating where military leader and Catholic Saint Joan of Arc was burned at the stake – making it an ideal option for those who appreciate Gothic-era buildings.