France sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

A country of elegance, timeless traditions and unparalleled atmosphere of sophistication, France never ceases to amaze its visitors. It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t know main landmarks of the country, but France has much more to offer. The country has countless landmarks, internationally famous places and signature cultural destinations.

The soul of France - religions and languages

The official language in France is French. This clause is even included in the Constitution of the Country. It should be noted that the Constitution …
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The most famous museum in the world is also located in France. Louvre changed its status several times during its long history. It was a royal residence, a prison, a fortress and even an academy. Nowadays, its beautiful halls exhibit thousands of priceless items.

Versailles has become a true shrine of medieval culture. The same named palace is the biggest sight of this place. Long ago it was the residence of French kings, so its spacious halls have retained their elegance and luxury till our days. During an excursion in the palace, tourists will know more about the history of that place and the purpose of every room. The most famous landmarks of Versailles are the Grand Canal and the Neptune Fountain. Versailles is located in the centre of a beautiful park decorated with statues and fountains. There are two historic buildings in the distant part of the park – the Grand Trianon and the Petite Trianon. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

France economy - strengths, wealth and problems

France today, is one of the most developed countries in the world in terms of GDP. These indicators are stable, despite the fact that a fairly large …
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France is home to internationally famous Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral. During its long history, the cathedral was a witness of many important historic events. During many years the cathedral never ceases to amaze its visitors with its magnificent beauty and splendour. However, when asked about Paris or France, most people will name another landmark – Eiffel Tower, which is located in the heart of the capital. There is an observation deck on the top of the tower, from which visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Paris.

Arc de Triumph is one more important architectural landmark in Paris. The terrace of the arc offers amazing view of the Place de l'Étoile. Moulin Rouge Cabaret has also become an important landmark of the city. The cabaret was founded in 1889, and since that time its performances have been among the most fascinating and unforgettable shows in Paris. Artists never cease to amaze visitors with their original performances, skills and luxurious costumes.

Unique sights of France from our series 'Extreme places on Earth'

These spots really worth the attention of a real traveler-researcher. …
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Tourists with children are recommended to visit Paris Disneyland. This is a large entertainment complex, which territory is divided into several themed zones. Thrilling rides, characters from favourite fairy tales and cartoons, movie theatres, shops and cafes await visitors in every park zone. It is also possible to see main places of interest in France during a cruise on Seine.

History and Entertainment

The country located on the territory of present France was first mentioned in the times of the Roman Empire. It was conquered by Romans in the 1st century BC and was called the province of Gaul. In the 5th century, Gaul was conquered by Franks. Francia flourished in the late 8th century. In 843, the Kingdom of East Francia was officially formed.

Top architectural sights of France

Monuments and architectural objects, notable for the history and culture of the country. …
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The territory it covered almost matches to the territory of modern France. The country gained its present name in the 10th century. Multiple forays of Vikings, rearrangement of the territory, the period of factionalism, the Hundred Years' War and the epoch of Napoleonic wars – France had undergone all these times for the next 800 years. One of the latest significant historical events for France was the adoption of the fifth Constitution in 1958.

Modern travelers associate France with sophisticated culture and a diversity of entertainments. This country is a place where Festival de Cannes and other world-famous festivals permanently take place. There are enchanting beaches on the Cote d'Azur and fashionable ski resorts.

National cuisine of France - specialties, recipes and restaurants

French cuisine is the standard of elegant and refined cuisine. It is widely appreciated by gourmets all over the world. Famous frog legs, cream-brulee …
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A lot of people choose Bretagne for beach recreation. There are not only beautiful beaches, but also thalassotherapy centers that are famous even outside the region. Fans of upscale recreation prefer vacationing on the Cote d'Azur. It is famous for its prestigious hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Luxurious ski resorts, among which the leading position is taken by Courchevel and Chamonix, are notable not only for their excellent ski routes, but also for flawless service. These resorts resemble a real winter fairy tale. People come here to admire wonderful mountain landscapes, walk along snowy forests and enjoy comfortable traditional French chalets.

National traditions and mentality of people in France

The French have long been fashion legislators in a wide variety of industries. French culture was an example and a model for imitation. Around the …
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On 15 July, the Bastille Day is annually celebrated in France. This national holiday is considered as one of the most luxurious and interesting ones. The most significant events take place in Paris. On festive days, there are beautiful military parades and interesting street performances in the streets. The festive day ends with grand fireworks in the vicinity of the Eiffel Tower.

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Famous and uniques places in France from our review series

Episcopal city of Albi

From the series “The Most Interesting UNESCO Sites in France”

The charming city of Albi is located in the southern part of France. It is a real storehouse of historical attractions. The entire historical part of the city is a World Heritage Site. The beautiful Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile is located in the heart of the Old Town. It was built in the Middle Ages. The cathedral is notable for its luxurious design, which managed to survive after more than 500 years. Beautiful frescoes adorn the cathedral. 270 statues are installed in its triforium. The medieval organ is preserved in the cathedral. Everyone can listen to its sound.

Saint-Salvi Church is located nearby. It was part of a large monastery once. Only a few fragments have survived from this monastery to the present day. They were built in the late 13th century. The church managed to completely … Read all

Ancient city Provins

From the series “The Most Interesting UNESCO Sites in France”

The historic city of Provins is located in the province of Champagne. Its entire territory is also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This merchant city was formed in the Middle Ages. About 11,5 thousand people live in it at present. The city was built on top of a small hill. One of the largest fairs in France was held on its territory annually in the 13th century. It is noteworthy that the population of the city was several times larger in the Middle Ages than today.

The merchant city lost its former privileges over time. Carefully preserved historical monuments are its main value today. Impregnable stone walls surround its territory today as well as many hundreds of years ago. They were built in the 13th century. The Church of Saint-Quiriace is one of the main historical symbols … Read all

Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion

From the series “The Most Interesting UNESCO Sites in France”

The region of Saint-Emilion is located on the banks of the Dordogne River. It is famous as a unique wine region. It has long received the status of an outstanding historical landmark. Tourists come here to admire the huge terraces of vineyards, walk through the picturesque hilly terrain, and visit the historic wineries. The area of the region is about 5,400 hectares. Vineyards occupy more than 73% of this area.

In total, there are more than 800 wineries in the Saint-Emilion region. More than 36 million bottles of wine are produced here annually. The region has been a place for interesting gastronomic tours for a long time. There is an opportunity not only to taste the best regional wines but also to get acquainted with the peculiarities of the national cuisine during such tours. … Read all

All unique sightseeing France

France sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

History and Entertainment

Episcopal city of Albi

Ancient city Provins

Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion

Sightseeing in popular cities of France