Explore the Beauty of France – Sightseeing, Culture & More
One of the most popular destinations in the world, France has much to offer travellers. From history and culture to cuisine and food, there is something for everyone here.
From the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe, Paris is a must-see for any traveler to France. But don’t overlook the rest of the country, which is also home to some stunning cathedrals and medieval castles.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a landmark of Paris and has been an iconic symbol of France since it was built for the 1889 World’s Fair. Its stature and daring design impressed the world and symbolized French know-how and industrial genius.
For 130 years, it has faithfully accompanied the people of Paris and its suburbs in their daily lives. It is a monument of great international fame that can be seen from all over Paris and the world, day and night.
A visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must during your trip to Paris. However, you should avoid crowds by visiting the tower during weekdays or evenings when it’s less crowded.
The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a major attraction in Paris and one of the most iconic symbols of the French capital. It stands at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, also known as “Place de l’Etoile.”
The arch features four high-relief panels depicting scenes from the Napoleonic Wars. The best-known of these is a sculptural group called the ‘Departure of the Volunteers’ (also known as La Marseillaise), which was crafted in 1792 by Francois Rude.
The monument has become a symbol of France’s national identity and a defining part of its history. Every evening, a flame is rekindled at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the arch. It’s a beautiful and moving experience.
The Beret
The beret is a symbol of French culture and identity. You can’t turn a street corner in Paris without seeing a beret being worn by both men and women.
The hat is also a popular accessory for tourists to France. However, it’s not a common accessory for the average French person.
The beret is a head-wear that has a very complicated history and has been connected to a number of different identities, countries, and peoples. It’s a symbol of national identity and has been harnessed by revolutionary guerrilla fighters and armed forces throughout its history.
The Wine
Wine has been an important part of France’s culture for centuries. The country is home to many wine regions, each known for specific styles and grape varieties.
France also has its own Appellation d’Origine Controlee (AOC) system, which delineates geographical wine regions and their distinctive characteristics (terroir). This is the basis of the wine industry’s quality control and protects French interests.
The Louvre
Originally built as a fortress in the 12th century, the Louvre has been enlarged and transformed over time into the massive museum we know today. Its collections, among the finest in the world, span several thousands of years and a territory that extends from America to Asia.
For French monarchs, collecting and displaying was more than an exercise in wealth; it was also a way of claiming their own position in the world’s history. As a royal palace, the Louvre displayed paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and technological wonders that represented a grand chronology through ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Italian Renaissance.
Edith Piaf
A Parisian icon, Edith Piaf left a legacy of music with songs that are still sung today. Her signature tunes such as La Vie en Rose and Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien, reflect the tough streets of her childhood, and her powerful voice is unforgettable.
Born in 1915 on the streets of Paris, Piaf struggled from day one. Her mother, a singer, abandoned her at age 19 and she spent her formative years on the road with her father, who was a street acrobat.
Mont Saint-Michel
The UNESCO-listed island of Mont Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling in France. It’s an awe-inspiring sight, and has long been a sacred pilgrimage site.
The monastic abbey is a magnificent complex of incredible buildings, each of which has merged religious devotion with more utilitarian uses over time. It’s a place that takes hours to explore properly, so make sure you leave yourself plenty of time.
Over the centuries, the Bay of Mont Saint Michel has accumulated silt, which has caused a lot of damage to the island. However, a conservation project was recently carried out that has helped to restore the island’s status.