Europe offers variety and individuality that many travelers simply do not have access to back home such as Italian leather, Belgian chocolates and Swiss watches; It really is a shopper’s paradise. Here’s the top 5 cities throughout the continent that shopaholics really can’t afford to miss.

Shopping Centre, London, UK by Jim Linwood

1. Dresden, Germany

With its rich yet turbulent history, Dresden is often described as being rather quiet and gloomy, but all that changes during the winter months when they city plays host to the Dresden Christmas Market. Established during the 15th Century, this is the oldest festive marketplace in Europe and is renowned for the homemade stollen on offer. Around 250 stallholders take part annually, selling an array of carefully handcrafted trinkets and blown glass holiday decorations.

2. Barcelona, Spain

The beauty of Barcelona is that it provides a refreshing mix of traditional Spanish stores that have been around since the Civil War and modern designer stores famous around the world. The top brands can, of course, be found nestled amongst quaint continental-style cafés along the cosmopolitan Passeig de Gràcia, known for being one of the most pricey avenues in Spain, while souvenir shops and more affordable stores line the nearby streets of Las Ramblas.

3. Paris, France

Anyone with even the vaguest of interest in clothing cannot pass up an opportunity to shop in the fashion capital of the world. The Champs-Élysées is the place to see and be seen in the center of Paris, with store after store dedicated to the latest styles. It’s not all designer clothes though, as this famous stretch from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde also houses toy stores, ice cream parlors and even car showrooms.

4. London, England

Frequently beating down the strong competition, London is often crowned King of shopping opportunities in Europe, with tourism purchases alone thought to contribute a whopping 3 billion pounds, or almost 5 billion dollars, to the British economy. London is famous for its big name department stores and global chains on Oxford Street, but also offers one-of-a-kind fashion boutiques and unconventional independent stores along Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, and a peek inside a Notting Hill bookstore is an absolute must-do activity.

5. Haarlem, Holland

Considered to be Holland’s premier shopping destination, Haarlem boasts numerous awards for its unrivaled shopping facilities. Visitors are drawn to the pretty, historic and, most importantly, pedestrianised Grote Houtstraat where the major brands are located, as well as to the small independent stores lining the surrounding cobbled streets. Situated just 13 miles west of Amsterdam, access is easy whether you arrive by plane, train or one of the many ferries to Holland.

Jennifer Watts, a freelance writer, provided this article for P&O Ferries. The opinions expressed are those of the author and any data provided does not originate from P&O Ferries. The following is a link to the P&O Ferries homepage – https://www.poferries.com/

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Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

This has been the symbol of Catholic dominance in France. It is referred as the “Cathedral of the Nation” and its majestic medieval architecture still stands tall in Paris. It has been captured and features several times because of its dazzling sunset and morning images reflecting Seine.

Distinguishing Features

1. Gothic Style
2. Spiral Staircase
3. Intricate Gargoyles
4. Immortalized thanks to the Hunchback of Notre Dame Story
5. Grand view of Paris and Seine River

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France by Abir Anwar

Strasbourg Cathedral

This is named as the second highest cathedral in France. It was the fusion of several masters in action. The west area was created by Master Erwin of Steinbach, the north tower by Ulrich von Ensingen, while the openwork wire is the creation of Johannes Hoeltz. It needed almost two decades of completion including the interesting ornaments and statues.

Distinguishing Features

1. referred as the Temple of Reason
2. astrological clock made by Schwilgue
3. combined Romanesque and Gothic architecture
4. towering height of 142 meters that huddles with medieval houses

Strasbourg Cathedral, France by notfrancois

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Nice is a beauty in itself, but the Russian Orthodox Cathedral will give you a glimpse of the strong connection between Nice and Russia during the early 20^th century. You will notice several Russians occasionally flying in to this place because of the direct flight from Moscow that is allowed at Nice Airport.

It may look like Disneyland because of its domes, but this is a religious architecture revered by many. Remember to dress appropriately if you do wish to explore it because strict dress code is implemented by management.

Distinguishing Feature

1. impressive Russian Orthodox architecture
2. five colored domed cupolas
3. hidden jewel in the greens of Nice
4. superb frescoes, paintings, and icons

Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Nice, France by Steve Cadman

The Cathedral of Rodez

Although this cathedral is less known, it is worth visiting during your stay in France. It is located in an old hill; its red hued sandstone can easily be spotted from afar. Your eyes will be captivated by the surrealism in the west façade, the main bell tower. There is still more discover when you decide to include it in your itinerary and there is no reason why you wouldn’t enjoy your stay.

Distinguishing Feature

1. unusual west façade featuring late gothic window juxtaposed the confection above
2. bizarre positioning of the main bell tower
3. elegant interior combined with medieval choir stalls, misericords, and carvings

The Cathedral of Rodez, France by B. Carlson

Cathedrals of today have been transformed into museums. Although some still hold religious ceremonies, its main appeal has been its arts and architectures. Enjoy your travel in France and find cheap deals that will help you save big time.

About the Author: Shaiya Ong is a freelance writer, philosopher, art appreciator, poet, and friend. She enjoys sharing her thoughts on numerous things in relation to www.frenchairportguide.com.

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1. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of those iconic landmarks in the world, built 1,063 feet into the sky it dominates the Parisian skyline, meaning you can almost always see it from around the city. With tickets to the very top floor at €14.00 and to the second floor at €8.50, obviously discounts do apply to concessions and children. I would recommend going to the very top as it is a really breath-taking view.

Skyline – Paris, France at night by Jim Trodel

2. Musée d’Orsay

Arguably not as famous as its brother Le Louvre, Musée d’Orsay is just as fantastic with stunning artwork by Manet, Rousseau, Klimt Renoir and Monet to name just a few. They also have impressive, architecture, photography and sculpture’s, including a personal favourite of mine Degas’ ‘Small Dancer Age 14’. One of the most arresting features of the, Musée d’Orsay is the beautiful clock that hangs in the centre of the far wall as you enter the museum. It is a reminder that it used to be a station until 1939 and you can just imagine thousands of people looking up at it to make sure that they were on time.

3. Notre Dame

Another popular Paris tourist attraction is Notre Dame; I first came to know about it whilst watching Disney’s film ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ when I was young. Obviously that story was based upon the book by Victor Hugo, but you still get the feeling among the Gothic facades that a unknown creature could live at the top among the bells. The Gargoyles that surround the structure eerily look down at you and it makes for a chilling, but amazing experience. When you enter Notre Dame you get the overwhelming sense of being very small and insignificant in the vast building, you can’t quite believe that it was finished being built in 1345 (they started building it in 1163!)

4. The River Seine

Admittedly this isn’t just a Paris attraction as the River Seine flows for 776km; however it is one of my favourite ways to see Paris from a boat cruising along the River. There are various ports dotted up and down the Seine or you can go in a circular motion from the same point, it’s a fun way to travel instead of walking or using the Metro.

5. Montmartre

The point at which the Sacre Coeur is located, Mont Martre is a great place to wander the streets taking in the art shops, cafés and Parisian ambience. When I went we sat in a café and watched while a fantastic blues band pitched up suddenly next to an art shop and listened to the fantastic music all whilst enjoying a cup of coffee. Its moments like that, which will stay with you forever and make your trip to Paris fantastic!

Bio: Phoebe is a Freelance journalist from London and loves to travel around Europe and the US.

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Saint-Tropez, France by Zoé de Saint-Tropez

1 – Convenience

If travelling from the UK, you can reach Calais and Le Havre in a few short hours or less. By comparison, a trip to the South of France can involve a longer flight, and day or two of driving. In this way, the North of France is recommended for people that want a quicker getaway, or don’t want to have to transport young children on a long journey.

2 – Cities

There are many excellent cities in both the North and the South of France. The North’s distinction comes through it being the location of Paris. However, travels to the South can take in the similarly large, if not quite as diverse, cities of Nice and Marseille along the French Riviera. Travellers going to the South West of France can also enjoy the historic city of Bordeaux.

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France by Trey Ratcliff

3 – Temperature

Those wanting to enjoy the sun and the beach are probably better off heading south than trying the climate of the Northern part of France, which is broadly similar to the UK. The South’s Mediterranean climate is much hotter, and features many more sandy beaches. Marseille and Nice are particularly popular for tourists. Visitors to the South and France’s Eastern border with Switzerland can also enjoy the sun and the skiing opportunities of the French Alps.

4 – Cultural Differences

While there are no major differences in terms of language and shared culture between the North and the South of France, there are a few contrasts that should be taken into consideration. The South of France is generally more tourist driven, and most French people will travel to it as part of their own holidays. The pace of life in the South is also slower and more relaxed in the larger cities and resorts. Cities like Monte Carlo are more expensive than the towns of the North. Food in the South is similarly more Mediterranean in terms of the use of spices and local fish delicacies.

Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur, France by marcovdz

5 – Travel Options

Being based in the North or the South of France will create different opportunities for further travel. On the other hand, being based in the North means that you can easily travel onto Belgium and Germany, while also gaining access to the Netherlands. By contrast, a trip to the South of France creates the chance to travel to Switzerland and Germany via the Alps, as well as heading west to Spain and Portugal. The South of France is also a good base for journeys on to the North of Africa and parts of Greece.

Conclusions

Taken together, those wanting a short journey, and the opportunity to enjoy Paris and cooler temperatures should consider the North of France, while those after sun and beaches, and a more Mediterranean holiday, can head south. Again, however, there is no reason not to enjoy both during the course of a longer trip.

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