Beyond Paris: The Best Places to Visit around France
When people think of France, the first thing that most often pops into their mind is Paris, with its shopping avenues, Notre Dame, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. As enchanting and infamous as Paris is, there is so much more to France. In this article we will go on a tour of the country, with its top must-see locations around the country.
1. The Palace of Versailles
If you are staying in Paris for a portion of your visit, then just 20 kilometers away is situated one of the most opulent memorials to royalty – The Château de Versailles. Built by King Louis XIV, the palace is compromised of extensive landscaped gardens and sprawling, decorative castle grounds. It is recommended to take an audiotour of the castle grounds, or perhaps even a guided tour, as the history and stories behind the palace are both extensive and fascinating.
Garden at the Palace of Versailles, France by Urban
2. Bordeaux
The city of Bordeaux is listed as a World Heritage Site, as “an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble”. The city, and its surrounding region is famous worldwide for its excellent wines. It is also considered as France’s “Little Paris” thanks to its many cultural, architectural, and historical monuments. It is a lively town, with many young people as it contains the country’s largest university. Thanks to the youthful population, the town has a thriving cafe and night life scene. You will be raising your wine glass many times while visiting beautiful Bordeaux.
Saint Pierre Church, Bordeaux, France by Luidger
3. Provence
You haven’t seen the best of France until you have explored the Provence region. It is one of France’s most beloved regions, by tourists and locals alike. With a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere, it is also famous for its fields of lavender and rose wines. While in Provence, be sure to visit Verdon Gorge, one of the most beautiful gorges in all of the European continent. There are also several ancient castles in the region that should not be missed.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France by Nepomuk
4. Brittany
Located in the North west region of France, the region of Brittany is perhaps most famous for its prehistoric megalithic monuments at Carnac. The Lac de Guerledan lake is an artificial lake that is worth a visit for its prime scenic beauty. A drive along the Cote d’Emeraude coast would make a memorable road trip, as there are many varied and bustling fishing towns and villages along the way.
Kermario Carnac, Brittany, France by Odedr
5. Normandy
Most famous for the 1944 D-Day invasion by the Allied forces, there are many other things to see and do in this northern region of France. There are many posh resorts on the coast, as well as wild and rugged landscapes of the La Hague.
Port Arromanches, Normandy, France by Comité Régional
When visiting France from overseas by plane, you’ll arrive in the nation’s capital, base yourself in one of the many beautiful Paris apartments from Worldwide-Accom and live like the locals!
Category: France
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