France is famous for its cuisine, wine, beautiful landscapes, art, architecture and also its laid back lifestyle which is the envy of the rest of the world. France is the world’s most popular tourist destination which receives about 82 million tourists annually. People from around the world are attracted to this place due to its classy culture, beautiful landmarks, fine wines, exquisite cuisine, romantic chateaux and the beautiful countryside. France is definitely a feast for one’s eyes. It is full of beautiful places to visit. Here is a list of top 10 places that you should visit when in France-
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10. Loire Valley
Loire Valley is a region situated in the centre of France and is a very popular tourist destination. It stretches 175 miles along the splendid Loire River. This place is famous for its beautiful villages, romantic chateaux, breath-taking sceneries and picturesque vineyards. It is the beautiful chateau that brings most of the travellers to this place and nowhere on the entire earth can one find as many chateaux as one does over here. There are many ways to explore Loire Valley. You can walk, drive, cycle or drift along the Loire River in a boat.
9. Lyon
Lyon is located in east central France and is the third largest city in France. It boasts of a long history and is known for its remarkable architecture. It is also known as the culinary capital of France as it has some of the best restaurants. When you walk through the cobblestone lanes of Vieux Lyon which is the oldest part of the city, you will be taking a trip through time as you stroll across centuries old shops and boutiques. Vieux Lyon is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
8. Marseille
Marseille is one of the oldest cities of Europe and the second largest in France. It is a major Mediterranean seaport that is located towards the southeast coast of France. Marseille boasts of the roman ruins and the magnificent medieval architecture. The many cathedrals and the medieval St. Laurent Church are some of the major attractions of this city. Also the old port area is pretty attractive and you can take a boat trip over here.
7. Bordeaux
This city is built upon the River Garonne and is also a very important seaport. Bordeaux being the fifth largest city of France boasts of historic sites, fine architecture and some of the world class arts and culture scene. The area around Bordeaux is also very famous for its beautiful vineyards. Gothic Churches, the old merchant houses, old markets and antique shops are sure to keep you busy for hours and give you the historic feel of the city.
6. Nice
Nice is located on the French Riviera between the rugged hills and the blue waters of Mediterranean. Nice has a lot to offer to the tourists ranging from its beaches and renowned flower markets to its beautiful old town, the various art galleries and its old port. A walk down the old town lures the visitors with its antique shops, small bistros and museums. This city attracts the visitors with its storied elegance and also its lifestyle and beauty.
5. Strasbourg
Strasbourg is situated on the border of France and Germany and is the capital city of the Alsace region. It is one of the magnificent historic cities of Europe. The city also serves as the seat of the European Parliament and to many other important European institutions too. The old city attracts its visitors by its old world charm with its splendid gothic cathedral, narrow streets and its riverfront half timbered houses.
4. Arles
Arles is a beautiful remote town in the Provence situated in the southeast of France. It is a good example of the alteration of an ancient city to a medieval European civilization. There are many museums over here. Though they are small but they have some of the most interesting artefacts. It also has some of the most impressive Roman monuments. The Roman theatre is one of the most famous monuments.
3. Burgundy
Burgundy is very famous for its French food and wine. This is the best place to visit if you want to enjoy a fine cuisine with some great wine in a historic setting. Throughout the city you will find some beautiful Renaissance buildings, medieval churches and majestic palaces. You can also visit the beautiful vineyards by taking a wine and culinary tour. The city also boasts of a rich cultural life which is evidenced by the art treasures in the museums.
2. Mont Saint Michel
Mont Saint Michel is a rocky island that is located off the north western coast in Normandy. This tidal island is one of the most famous tourist destinations of France. This is an impressive sight that sits amid the sandbanks and the powerful tides. The heritage site is most famous for its Gothic style architecture. It is accessible throughout the year apart from the time when the tides are very high.
1. Paris
Paris is a magical city. It is probably the best known place in the world even for those who have never visited this city. Paris is known to be the world’s most popular tourist destination. This place has some of the most famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Seine. This is a city that can be visited at any time of the year whether it is summer or winter. It is sure to mesmerize you with its charm.