Start your observation of the architectural landmarks of the complex from the eastern part of the main palace, the length of which is 680 meters. Each hall of the palace is made in an inimitable style, but the pantheon of Greek Gods remains the main inspiration of the design. Skillfully made marble décor, amazing handmade statues, and furniture with velvet upholstery decorate spacious halls of the palace. Outside, …
Open
Nowadays, the prestigious Académie du Spectacle Équestre is open in that building. Visitors are welcome to attend fantastic equestrian shows, such as Reprises Musicales. One needs to buy tickets beforehand to be able to see the spectacular shows – as a rule, the tickets are sold out several weeks in advance. Visitors of the musical shows are also allowed to enter the stables and see training sessions. There is …
Open
This garden unleashes a true genius of the King’s gardener, Jean-Baptiste La Quintinie. He built special walls and terraces that created a particular microclimate. Thanks to that invention, it was possible to grow more than 300 varieties of fruits and vegetables. The fabulous garden is located close to the grand palace of Versailles. It is a well-kept plot of land with flawlessly straight rows of plants, …
Open
Initially, it was a small village, but Louis XIV decided to turn it into his residence and so the place got wide avenues, first octagonal squares in France, mansions of the aristocracy, and even a grand church. The French Court had some interesting and unusual traditions that may seem unusual for modern people. For example, the ritual of Grand Couvert or a public dinner, during which the King and Queen of France …
Open
Among the cultural institutions of Versailles, the Museum of the History of France deserves top priority. It is located in the Palace of Versailles. The history of the creation of this museum is very interesting. Its founder is King Louis Philippe. He refused to live in the Palace of Versailles and decided to open a museum in one of his luxurious rooms, which would become a symbol of national reconciliation. For the …
Open
Versailles has several chic hotels that certainly deserve the attention of true connoisseurs of luxury. They include Trianon Palace Versailles, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel occupying an incredibly beautiful historic building and offering its own private spa. Among its elite rooms are noteworthy suites with an area of over 60 square meters and fantastic views of the park of the Palace of Versailles. Rooms are decorated …
Open
France - moving around the country
Yet another important airport is the airport of Bordeaux, which is located in the province of Bordeaux. There are two terminals in its territory. You can get to the city by bus, transfer, or taxi. Anyone can rent a car of famous international brands on the territory of the airport. The infrastructure of the airport includes a number of bars, shops and restaurants, as well as a tour desk, currency exchange offices, bank branches, and lounges. In Lyon, is situated a well-known international airport, called Lyon Saint Exupéry. Several years ago, a second terminal was opened on the territory of this airport. This has significantly led to an increase in the airport’s capacity. The infrastructure of this air station also meets all the requirements and standards of European service. Here everyone will find places for a snack and a comfortable relaxation. You can hold an urgent business meeting or arrange a tourist tour in any direction. In addition, tourists can exchange money for euros and use the services offered by some bank branches.
…
Open
Overview of festivals and celebrations in France
France is not a deeply religious country; almost half of its inhabitants do not belong to any religion. However Christmas is celebrated in its cities on a special scale. This day becomes a symbol of miracle. The streets are lit up with a huge number of flashing garlands and ornaments, luxurious fir trees decorated with glass toys are mounted in the squares. Children put boots and shoes under the tree in the house, in them on Christmas night should put gifts by Peer Noel, getting inside through the chimney. Christmas dinner is called "reway", its menu is strictly regulated, and recipes are passed on from generation to generation. At the Christmas table there must be a bird, most often goose, pates, salads and a special dessert - a pie in the form of logs.
…
Open