France

France is the world’s most visited country having more than 80 million international tourists every year.

“Liberté, égalitié, fraternité.”

It has exceeded other popular European countries like Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, and Germany; and countries in other continents like the United States and China. It is the largest country in Europe and most of the time referred to as “the hexagon” due to its six-sided shape.

Liberty, equality, and fraternity, is France’s national motto, as written in French in the introduction of this text. It was part of the constitutions of 1946 and 1958 and can be seen today in government logos, coins, and postage stamps.

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Some of the main ethnic groups in France are Basque, Africans, Germans, Jewish, Muslims, Polish, Roma, and French Indochinese. Meanwhile, French is the official language of the country and also the second most spoken language in the Europe.

Some other regional dialects used are Italian, Alsacian, Basque, Breton, Catalan, Occitan, and Flemish.

France has given a big part in the history and inventions. Nicolas Appert and Pierre Durand, both started the idea of canning in sealed jars and tin cans, are sons of this country.

Other inventions that were a product of French people are the Braille alphabet, stethoscope, hair dryer, hot air balloon, and the metric system. On the other hand, the first face and artificial heart transplant first took place in this country as well.

Moreover, France also has a big contribution to literature as writers/thinkers namely Descartes, Pascal, Voltaire, Baudelaire, Flaubert, Sartre, and Camus are all from this country. It is said that the country, compare to any other country, has won more Noble Prizes for literature.

After Italy, France is the second largest wine producers in the world creating more than an average of six billion each year – from dry white wine, sweet white wine, rose wine, to red wine.

Wine production in France started as early as the 11th century by the Benedictine and Cistercian monks. Some of the regions that are producing wine are Burgundy, Bordeaux, Loire, Champagne, Alsace, Rhône, Languedoc and Roussillon, Provence and a lot more regions.

Main Cities in France

Based on demography, these are the ten most populated cities in France with its estimated number of populations as reported at World Population Review.

  1. Paris – 2,138, 551 of population (check out our travel guide about Paris, where to stay in Paris and things to do and what to see)
  2. Marseille – 794,811 of population
  3. Lyon – 472,317 of population
  4. Toulouse – 433,055 of population
  5. Nice – 338, 620 of population
  6. Nantes – 277,269 of population
  7. Strasbourg – 274,845 of population
  8. Montpellier – 248,252 of population
  9. Bordeaux – 231, 844 of population
  10. Lille – 228, 328 of population

Places to visit in France

1. Eiffel Tower (Paris)

the Eiffel Tower in Paris

When talking about France, this attraction is definitely the first that comes to mind. This, being located in the capital of France which is Paris, is the symbol of the city.

This famous landmark can be seen in any part of the world from postcards, movies, keychains, house displays, home wallpapers, to wallets and cellphone cases – literally everywhere. When it was first built, it was an eyesore to the people and some known people protested against this tower. However, when it was used as a radio antenna, it became useful and everything became history. A visit on this site is on the top of the list of every tourist.

2. Louvre Museum (Paris)

the Louvre museum in Paris

One of an iconic architecture, with its glass pyramid entrance, this museum has the world’s finest art. Some famous masterpiece that can be seen in this museum are Mona Lisa, Les Noces de Cana (The Wedding Feast at Cana), Vénus de Milo, Victoire de Samothrace (Winged Victory), The Coronation of Napoléon, La Liberté Guidant le Peuple, Psyche Revived by the Kiss of Love, La Dentellière (The Lacemaker), Marly Horses, and Le Tricheur à l’as de Carreau (The Cheat with the Ace of Diamonds); some French crown jewels are on her as well.

3. Euro Disney (Paris)

Euro Disney in Paris

The happiest place on Earth can also be found in Paris and it is the only Disneyland in the country. Bring along the kids and the whole family and no money can ever be wasted on this happy trip.

4. The Palace of Versailles (Versailles)

Located just outside of Paris. The palace is a home for three generation of Kings and Queens. All visitors of the palace are just in awe at all the magnificent things in every corner of the palace.

5. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres (Paris)

Cathédrale Notre-Dame in Paris

This cathedral is included in the UNESCO list due to its fine sculptures, and outstanding 12th and 13th century stained glass windows. The Passion window and the Blue Virgin window are among the highlights of the cathedral. The Cathedral was shown all over the world in the successful Notre-Dame de Paris movie (1956). It was about the timeless tale of the seductive gypsy Esmeralda and the tortured hunchback Quasimodo.

6. Provence

Provence – Pont du Gard

The brightest place in the country of France from the bright yellow sunflowers, red poppies, and deep purple lavender fields. Some tourists destinations on this bright area are Ancient Ruins and provençal traditions in Arles, Marseilles: Cosmopolitan Seaport, Saint-Tropez’s Seaside Glamour, Avignon: Medieval City of the Popes, Aix-en-Provence: Quintessential Provence, Ancient Roman Ruins in Orange, and Vence: A Picturesque Artists’ Village

7. The French Riviera

Also known as Côte d’Azur with English translation of “Coast of Blue”, is the Mediterranean coastline in the South East part of France.

The French Riviera

Popular cities from this group are Cannes, Nice, Monaco, and Toulon. It is known to be a luxury travel destination for the rich and famous with its private beaches, prestige restaurants and hotels.

8. Nice

Nice – France

It is considered as the Queen of the Riviera. Some of the tourists attractions in this city is Promenade des Anglais with a seaside where people can stroll along the long walkway while appreciating the sea; and a landslide that has very nice hotels and cafes and restaurants, Old Town of Nice contrary to the urban side of Promenade d Anglais, it has beautiful sceneries of Baroque churches and Palais Lascaris, The Cours Saleya Market has restaurants that offer croissants and coffee in the morning to drinks at night, and freshest vegetables in the market itself, Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art) – it showcases the avant-garde French and American modern art movements.

9. Cannes

Cannes – France

It’s famous movie festival guarantees to have famous people that visit the place every year. Some tourist destinations in the city are La Croisette – prominent boardwalk in the city that surrounds the bay, Palais des Festivals – the venue for the Cannes Film Festival, Le Suquet – forget about the glitz and glamour and take time to venture into the old town part of the city appreciating history and local delicacies.

10. Monaco

Monaco – France

It is said to be the world’s second smallest country. Formula 1 Grand Prix, one of the prominent automobile races are held in this city, every year. Places to go in this city are Monte Carlo Casino (gaming, opera, ballet and its grand décor are just some of the reasons why people love to visit the place), Museum of Antique Automobiles – it is where to find personal car collection of Prince Rainier III, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo – indulge in activities on this place’s spa, salon, gym, and treatment rooms.

France countryside and mountains

Mont Blanc – Chamonix

Skip the busy cities of France and take time to explore these hidden beauties.

  • Fontainebleau – an hour’s drive from Paris that offers a forest attraction, bird watching, and hiking that are great activities for the whole family.
  • Vienne – Go back to the history with the ancient Roman ruins.
  • Bourg-en-Bresse – Cathedral of Notre Dame of the Annunciation and Brou Royal Monastery is the main attraction of the place. 16th to 18th-century houses can also be found in this place giving you that historic feels
  • Mâcon – a picnic spent in green grass on the riverside, in any time of the day, is just one of the simple joys in the world.
  • Manosque – To see the surrounding nature and panoramic view of the city, a climb to the hill of Mont d’Or is the very best activity.
  • Cluny – known for its medieval abbey, it is one of the brilliant sights of Romanesque architecture.
  • Chamonix – or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a resort area. Skiing is the most popular activity in this area as Mont Blanc is considered to be the highest summit in the Alps. Aside from skiing, tourists on this place can also experience riding a cable car that can give a panoramic view.

Where to stay in Paris – 5 best places

Having sufficient knowledge on the best area to stay in Paris will enable you to investigate all that Paris brings to the table.

Even though Paris is known as the romantic city on the planet, romance isn’t all that Paris offers.

Millions of guests arrive in Paris every year to encounter the remarkable air of the town. Regardless of whether your Paris occasion is for love, family occasion or shopping, there is something for everybody in Paris.

Paris is isolated into twenty zones (in France, they are called arrondissements) that are partitioned by the Seine river, as you can see in the picture. Parisians often say – to live on the left bank or the right bank.

One district can cover several arrondissements, and in reality, it is. But do not worry, it is confusing, but in practice, the term arrondissements uses most post, police and other state administration organizations. In English, you will be ok with the expression district or neighborhood.

Paris arrondissements

Each part has its particular attributes and vibe. An ideal approach to settle on where to stay in Paris is to comprehend what each area brings to the table.

So, the question is – where to stay in Paris? Which neighborhood is the best to stay for the first time? We chose five options for you.

1) Saint Germain

Boulevard Saint Germain in Paris – source of the image: mylastdestination.eu

Saint Germain or the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district (No. 6 on the map) is the best neighborhood for families or people who want to discover the true Paris at any cost.
Saint Germain holds the timeless charm of the Left Bank while buzzing with a lively array of galleries, restaurants, and jazz clubs.

From the upscale shops that are situated along the bustling Boulevard Saint Germain to the aristocratic peace of the Jardin du Luxembourg (also known as Luxembourg Gardens – excellent in summer), this district is popular with locals and tourists.

This neighborhood typically attracts a well-heeled crowd who come seeking only the biggest names in fashion and food.

Though at times the area may feel overrun with tourists, the biggest advantage is that you’ll find many shops and restaurants open in summer while other areas of the city are quiet.

Where to stay in the Saint Germain district?

Which hotels are reasonable in this area? Check out our selection of the best hotels in the Saint Germain area. The average price is about EUR400 – 450 for 3 nights.

Public transport

The possibilities of public transport are excellent: two central metro stations and twelve bus stations. Metro: purple line No. 4 (station Saint-Germain-des-Prés) and yellow line No. 10. (station Mabillion).

How to get to Saint Germain from Paris airports?

  1. From the Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) always take RER line “B” and go to the Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame station. After that, you have three options for how to get to the district. If you don’t have heavy luggage, you can go on foot. From the station it is about 10 minutes walk away. Or you can go to the metro – purple line No. 4 and take two stops to the station Saint-Germain-des-Prés. And the third option is to take a taxi. All the public transport ways take about 45 – 55 minutes, taxi about 60 minutes.
  2. From the Orly Airport (ORY), always take the Orlybus and go five stops to the station Denfert-Rochereau-Métro-RER. From here you can change to the metro – purple line No. 4, from station Denfert-Rochereau and go six stops to the station Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This way takes about 45 – 50 minutes. Taxi takes about 40 minutes.

Where to eat in Saint Germain area?

1) Lovely is the Cezembre Restaurant. The whole menu for EUR29, at the weekend for EUR35. Please, if you were satisfied, comment on this site tips on food for the others.

Cezembre restaurant in Paris

2) If you want something cozier, try Freddy’s restaurant/bar, it is a very nice hidden gem in Paris!

3) If you are on the budget or want to eat at late night, try this fantastic restaurant – Cook’n Saj. Again, if you were satisfied here, comment on this site, please.

Want to buy wine for a great night?

Relative good French wine you can buy from supermarkets. For example, this one, in the area. Do you want something special? You have to go to the wine shop and, in this area, it is this regional seller La Derniere Goutte (and do not be fooled by the outside of the store).

Our next tip for you is the wine shop La Maison Des Millésimes close to metro station Mabillon.

2) Le Marais

Where to stay in Paris? Le Marais is a beautiful district. Photo by www.hotel-paris-marais.com

This is our favorite area.

The trendiest district in Paris, the Marais is defined by the hip Parisians who come to eat, drink and shop in this uber cool quarter.

Though the character of the neighborhood leans towards a younger audience, the Marais’s diversity offers something for everyone. Ranging from its famed Jewish quarter to the historic Place des Vosges.

For visitors who’ve already checked off every place in their checklist, the Marais is the perfect place to understand Paris outside of the guidebooks.

Where to stay in the Le Marais area?

Which hotels are fine in the Le Marais district? Check this list of the best hotels. The average price is around EUR600 for 3 nights.

Public transport

There is nine metro stations and very much bus stations. Metro: green line No. 3, pink line No. 8, yellow line No. 1, brown line No. 11 and orange line No. 5. That’s very comfortable.

How to get to the Le Marais from Paris airports?

  1. From the Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) take RER line “B” and leave the Châtelet – Les Halles station. After that, you can change the metro brown line No. 11 and go two stops to Rambuteau station.  This way takes about 50 – 60 minutes, by taxi about 45 minutes.
  2. From the Orly Airport (ORY), you can take the train T7 and go sixteen stops to the station Villejuif – Louis Aragon. From here you can change the metro – pink line No. 4, from the station of the same name to the station Pont Marie (12 stops). This way takes about 60 minutes. Taxi takes about 40 minutes (in this case it is a better solution).

Where to eat in Le Marais district?

1) If you want to save your money or want to eat something small, there is an excellent baguettes buffet Miznon where you can find yummy products at a reasonable price.

Food from buffet Miznon

2)  Another nice option is this cozy bistro Le Chanard. But you have to know they accept cash only!

3) Do you want to try something original from the French cuisine? Go to the Restaurant L’Ange 20, another hidden gem with for your sour tongue!

Where to buy good wine in the Le Marais district?

In this area is many small supermarkets, where you can NOT buy good wine. So in this case, try to find some wine shop. I can recommend the following:

1) Wine Touch wine shop, close to Le Centre Pompidou and metro station Rambuteau.

2)  “Lot” Of Wine wine shop, which is close to river Seine.

3) Nicolas Bretagne wine shop, which has two shops with wine in the Le Marais district.

3) 1ST Arrondissement

Jardin des Tuileries and it’s garden – a fantastic place for relax

Sightseeing is unquestionably something you should do in Paris. The Louvre is the star attraction of the 1st Arrondissement and you can spend days at the Louvre.

The outdoor gardens are a must. Walk from the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde through the Jardin des Tuileries and wonder at the outdoor statues, gardens, and fountains.

You could shop at the in the elegant boutiques and trendy cafés along the Rue de Rivoli street.

Ponte Neuf Bridge is the oldest bridge in Paris and one of the favorites in the city.

Take a walk along this centuries-old bridge linking the Right and Left Banks through the Île de la Cité. Also if you like walking, the area around Les Halls and the River Seine is home to many pedestrian streets.

Shopping

There’s a premier underground shopping center called Les Halles. This was formerly the Paris food market, now it’s a place to shop and see a movie. Palais Royal is home to the ministry of culture but you can visit its gardens and surrounding boutique shops.

Where to stay in the 1th arrondissement?

Here we chose for you hotels which are not so expensive ones: the best hotels in Paris city center. The average price here is about EUR550 for 3 nights.

Public transport

It is not so big place, but still there is 7 metro stations with five metro lines (yellow 1, pink 7, purple 14 and 4, and green 3). Because it is a histrorical center, there is no too much bus stops, as well as vehicles in the streets.

How to get to the 1th arrondissement from Paris airports?

  1. From the Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) take the RER line “B” and after three stops leave the Châtelet – Les Halles station. That’s all. This way takes about 50 minutes, by taxi about 45 minutes.
  2. From the Orly Airport (ORY), take Le bus direct (EUR12) to the station Paris – Gare Montparnasse. From here you can change the metro – green line No. 12, from the station Gare Montparnasse to the station Concorde (7 stops). This way takes about 50 minutes. Taxi takes up to 40 minutes.

Where to eat in the 1th arrondissement?

You cannot expect cheap buffets, although of course, fast food is always there.

Mumi restaurant in Paris – really excellent choice

1) If you want to experience heaven on earth, try book a place in the Mumi restaurant. Lunch about EUR30, dinner about EUR50. Bottle of wine from EUR40 – 300.

2) Michelin restaurant Pur’ – Jean-François Rouquette can attract you with a special French food. But don’t ask me for a price list.

Is there any cheaper alternative? Of course, there is.

Chez la Vieille – more at the east from 1th arr., but not so far.  À la Carte menu about EUR15 – 25, a cake for EUR6.

If you have personally more tips about great restaurants for a good price (best with locals) in the 1th arrondissement, please feel free to write to me at [email protected]

Where can you buy good wine?

In this location, definitely in LQV Le Quinze Vins wine shop.

Tip for backpackers – try to buy wine in supermarket Monoprix, close to Pyramides metro.

4) 7th Arrondissement

7th Arrondissement in Paris – relative large and with the best ratio of historical site and price for your stay

A visit to Paris wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower and if you are seeing it for the first time, this could be the best place for you to stay in Paris.

Napoleon’s tomb is located in Les Invalides and you can have an interesting tour through the military history of France.

The Musee d’Orsay museum is a dream for those who love Impressionism. With Monet, Degas, Cezanne, Van Gogh, Surat, Manet, and Gauguin hanging from its walls, it keeps the largest collection of impressionist art in the world.

You may have seen the giant green area from every aerial view of Paris, that’s the Champs de Mars which offers beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower and is a perfect spot for a Parisian picnic.

Best places to stay in 7th Arrondissement in Paris

There is a chance to catch a good hotel for a reasonable price. Especially if you book ahead, you have great opportunity to stay for cheap money in the nearby center. Check out these best hotels in the 7th arrondissement in Paris.

5) The 11th Arrondissement (great price tip for the first stay)

The 11th Arrondissement – Le Bon Georges is one of the new wave bistros in Paris. Photo by Sofia Levin – Australia

If you have a limited budget, but still want to stay near the city center, it is a perfect location. I was there and can confirm it myself. Going to the eleventh arrondissement will understand the culture of the Parisians.

The 11th is also the best neighborhood for foodies. Located just outside the central arrondissements and with lower rents, many of the city’s up and coming chefs have started up in this area. Regularly catering to a local crowd, prices are comparatively more affordable in the 11th where the focus is on relaxed eateries with excellent food vs. conventional haute cuisine. You’ll find everything here from newly created Michelin star establishments to the most trend-setting chefs to amazing natural wine bars.

Where to stay in the 11th arrondissement in Paris?

Here you can choose your next stay from these cheaper hotels in this location.

Your choice where to stay in Paris will probably also depend on the season. If you visit Paris in summer, you can expect to look for places where there are great parks. The hotel will not be so important because you will still be out.

If you want to arrive in winter, you concentrate more on museums and will be very careful to choose the hotel where you stay in case of bad weather and enjoy, for example, a sauna complex.

If you are on the budget or want to eat at late night, try this fantastic restaurant with beautiful tables – Cook’n Saj. Again, if you were satisfied here, comment on this site, please.

How to get to your dream destination?

Paris has two main airports. All about you can read in our separate article about main Paris airports.

Your motivation video:

Source:

Very pleasant performance of Marais neighborhood from France 24 channel