There’s more to France than the Eiffel tower and very good wine. This country, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, offers everything from historical monuments of Paris and Versailles, to the picturesque landscapes of Normandy, to the famous beaches of the French Riviera, to thrilling outdoor activities. Depending on which part of France you visit, and your own personal definition of what is “fun”, you can pick from a long list of things to do: catch a tan, pick grapes, or wander through museums.
If this is your first visit to France, and you would like to experience “the country in a nutshell”, here are some things to include in your itinerary.
First of all, climb the Eiffel tower, which rises to an amazing 1,000 feet. By 1889, despite criticism from people who called it “a truly tragic street lamp”, over 2 million people had climbed to its peak. It’s almost iconic and you can’t visit the country without completing this “rite of passage”. If you visit at night, you can also lie on the grass of the Champs de Mars, and enjoy the view. Another rite of passage is walking through the Arc de Triomphe, at the very heart of the world’s largest traffic roundabout, and symbol of victory for the Allies. You can also visit the museum inside.
The next thing you have to do is go to the world’s most famous museum, the Louvre. First established in the 12th century, it has eight collections which contain some of the most important masterpieces—including the mysterious Mona Lisa. It can take days to really explore the Louvre and its 35,000 pieces of art, but you can take a guided tour and see the history of art in a nutshell.
Another key tourist stop is the Versailles Palace, just 13 miles south west of Paris. It used to be the center of political power. This beautifully decorated palace shows off some of the best in French craftsmanship, include intricate carvings and marble work.
What would a trip to France be without a visit to the Cathedral Notre Dame? While you’ll see no hunchback, you will enjoy the gothic architectural detail of this medieval structure, which was built over 70 years and was finally completed in 1330. Key pieces include a 7800 pipe organ and a rose window that dates as far back as the 13th century. It also has some very well preserved statues and figures of saints, not to mention the famous gargoyles. You’ll be rewarded for the long climb with an amazing view of Paris. The great bell is in the south tower.
The young (and the young at heart) will enjoy a trip to Disneyland Paris, a magical wonderland. It house Disneyland Park, Walt Disney Studios, and sections like Frontierland, Fantasyland and Adventureland. There is also a gold course and excellent hotels.
The French Riviera is known for its great beaches, and great beach parties. Rub elbows with celebrities and models in one of the world’s most glamorous party places. (Love the snow, not the sun? The skiing doesn’t get any better than in the French Alps, where you can choose from over 200 resorts, and see three national park and four regional parks.
If you’d rather picnic than party, head for Normandy, known for its picturesque hills, sea views (particular Mont St Michel Bay) and quaint villages. The region inspired Monet’s flower fields. After a day of touring the countryside, take a hearty lunch at Honfleur, a fishing port famous for its seafood. Wine lovers will enjoy a wine tour in Bordeaux, where you can take wine appreciation clases or take a red wine bath at the Caudalie Spa.