France Attractions – What to See in France
France is the top tourist destination in the world, which comes as no surprise since it has many spectacular attractions. Indeed, France is home to many historic and interesting sites which are all equally captivating, which is why you might have a hard time knowing where to start. It doesn’t matter where you do, though, as long as you visit these top France attractions during your stay.
The Palace of Versailles
First constructed in 1624 under the reign of King Louis XIII, Versailles became the French royal residence from 1682 to 1789, during which it served as a seat of political power and a symbol of luxury. Today, it is one of the most popular France attractions – a place of national importance, as well as incredible beauty, with its magnificent rooms, ornate furniture and stunning gardens – all of which are sure to take your breath away, send shivers down your spine or even move you to tears as they remind you of the grandeur of an era gone by. Versailles is located just a few minutes away from Paris, and is open most days of the year.
Grand Louvre
Some of the best France attractions are excellent museums such as the famous Louvre. The Louvre Museum houses more than 400,000 pieces distributed into three wings, including over 6,000 masterpieces from French, Spanish, Italian and other European painters. It is particularly known as the home of the ‘Mona Lisa’ by Leonardo da Vinci, which is one of the most controversial works of art ever produced. Aside from being a world-renowned museum, the Louvre is also one of the central landmarks in Paris, with its distinct pyramid situated on the right bank of the River Seine. The equally interesting Georges Pompidou Centre and the Musee d’Orsay are only a short drive away.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower has many distinctions. It is the tallest building in Paris at a height of 324 metres, and was the tallest in the world from 1889 to 1930. It is the most visited paid monument in the world, as well, receiving nearly 7 million visitors annually. It is also the most recognizable structure in the world. Indeed, the Eiffel Tower easily symbolizes the romantic City of Lights and all of France, which is why you should take some time to visit it instead of merely bringing home one of its miniatures. The lines may be long, especially in the peak season, but the views from the top are sure to be worth the wait.
Notre Dame de Paris
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has a rich history. First constructed in 1163, it is the site of many historical events, including the coronation of King Henry VI, the wedding of Mary, Queen of Scotland, the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte and the canonization of Joan of Arc. What draws millions of visitors year after year, though, is its remarkable Gothic architecture and its collection of artistic religious pieces. Its rose windows are stunning to behold on sunny days, while the gargoyles and chimera perched around its tower are fascinating. You can also catch a glimpse of its bells, particularly the 13-ton Emmanuel Bell, which is sure to transport you into the pages of Victor Hugo’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’.
Chateau de Chombard
Built in the 16th century, the Chateau de Chombard in the Loire Valley is a romantic and awe-inspiring structure. It is one of the most popular French castles and one of the finest examples of French renaissance architecture. It has 440 rooms and 84 staircases, with the centerpiece being its famous double-helix staircase which runs up three floors without meeting. It also has over 800 decorative columns and an eleborate roofline, all of which are mirrored in its moat. The Fontainebleau Castle is another castle worth visiting.
The Loire Valley
During your vacation in France, don’t just linger in Paris. Rather, make it a point to discover the beauty of the French countryside, like the Loire Valley. Aside from the Chombard Castle, the Loire Valley offers many other enchanting castles, as well as charming towns and historic cities like Bourges and Orleans. It is also known for its excellent wine and breathtakingly romantic natural scenery, earning it the title of the Garden of France, which is why it is one of the best France attractions in itself.
If you still have some time left, you can also visit other France attractions, such as the Futuroscope, the Fontainebleau Forest and the beautiful beaches of the French Riviera. While you won’t be able to visit them all, you might as well try to see as many of the scenic spots in France as you can, so you can truly say that you have experienced France instead of merely visiting it – an experience sure to be on the top of your list for a lifetime.
Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including France, by car. Zencarhire.com offer car hire from many locations throughout France, including, car hire Poitiers. To book a car hire France, or learn more about car rental worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com
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