France
A country best known for art, history, and the finest wines, France is the ultimate European destination for world travelers. With a culture that has been at the forefront of the world’s history for many years and a well-preserved heritage admired the world over, France is definitely one of the best places to visit and explore.
Here are the top ten places to visit in France, in no particular order:
1. The Eiffel Tower
One of the world’s tallest and most famous structures, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a must-see for any first-time traveler to France. Any time of day is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the view but at night the tower takes on a more magical vista, with its thousands of strobe lights and dancing fountains.
2. Seine River
The Seine River is a must for the romantics. A lamp-illuminated cruise trip across the Seine is one of the best ways to take in the nighttime marvels of Paris, fittingly known as The City of Light.
3. The Louvre
The Louvre museum in Paris is a favorite destination for those who appreciate art and history; but even if you couldn’t care less about art, the Louvre pyramid and Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa are probably enough to lure you in.
4. Palace of Versailles
First built in 1624, the Chateau de Versailles exemplifies the finest in historical French architecture and art. This sprawling structure offers one of the best, panoramic views of historical Paris.
5. French Riviera Beaches
One of the most glamorous places in all of France is the French Riviera, known for its beautiful beaches and beautiful people. If you are in the mood for some sun soaking and a bit of socializing, the French Riviera beaches – St Tropez, Cannes, and Nice – are definitely worth the trip.
6. Arc de Triomphe
You would not want to leave Paris without a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, considered to be one of the most famous monuments of the country. Standing 50 meters and designed in the Neoclassicism architectural style, the Arc de Triomphe stands in honor to the courageous French people who fought and perished in the Napoleonic Wars.
7. Normandy
If you want a French vacation that is anything but Parisian, a visit to Normandy with its quaint villages, picturesque countryside, and historical sites will surely give you a different, but no less pleasant, perspective on France. This French region is renowned all over the world for its great food and finest wines, too.
8. Champs-Elysees
If you’re in the mood for some serious shopping, you may head over to Champs-Elysees Avenue where specialty shops, cafes, theatres, and exclusive boutiques line the avenue. But many tourists choose to visit “the most beautiful avenue of the world” just to take in its unique Parisian vibe, while walking through tree-lined sidewalks.
9. Chartres Cathedral
A popular pilgrimage site where the Sancta Camisa – believed to be the Virgin Mary’s cloak during the birth of her son – is housed, the Chartres Cathedral is also an architectural spectacle. This structure, done in the French High Gothic architectural style, has remained well conserved since the 13th century.
10. Giverny
This Northwestern commune in France is popular as the location of Claude Monet’s home. Claude Monet, the father of French Impressionist painting, moved to this village in 1890, where he built cottage and a garden. His famous home and garden, first opened to the public in 1980, had inspired many of his most celebrated works such as Water Lilies and Water Lily Pond.
As you can see, there are many historic landmarks to experience in France. But France isn’t just limited to sight-seeing – it also offers fine dining and entertainment.