Introducing the country of France– France travel guide

France has many attractions and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This beautiful country has delicious food, a rich and fruitful history and a lovely atmosphere.

A trip of several days is not enough to enjoy all the beauties of France. Anyone who travels to France once counts down the minutes to see this spectacular country again. The travel guide to France provides you with complete information about this country; Including important tourist attractions, the best time to travel, weather, ways to reduce travel costs, etc. With the help of this travel guide, you can plan a more productive and cheaper trip to France and enjoy every moment of your trip.

About France

France, with its unique culture, wonderful tourist attractions, beautiful natural landscapes, cozy terrace cafes, colorful markets and unique architectural works, attracts many tourists from all over the world.

When you hear the name of France, you will undoubtedly think of architecture and art at the highest possible level. France has attractions that are famous all over the world and attractions that are being discovered day by day. This country is very remarkable in terms of cultural diversity and breadth. You can clearly see this from its art galleries, cultural attractions, magnificent palaces and amazing architectural works.

France is one of the top tourist destinations in the world and has 89 million tourists annually.

Food is an important part of French culture and there is no one in the world who has not heard of French cuisine. Shopping from traditional and modern bakeries, eating the most delicious sweets and desserts and drinks in stylish and attractive cafes and eating in the most luxurious and luxurious restaurants in the world, many of which have Michelin stars, are just a few of the fascinating experiences you will have on your trip to France.

When we distance ourselves from food and culture, we reach nature. In terms of beauty and variety of natural attractions, France is no less than other tourist destinations in the world. Beautiful landscapes and rural landscapes on the mountain slopes, vast lavender fields with eye-catching and stunning color, dense and green forests and even coastal areas, all together, have formed the beautiful and unique nature of France. Every corner of this country you visit, there is an attraction that will attract your attention.

Essential France information

• official language: french
• currency unit: euro
• Country code: +33
• Emergency numbers: 112
• Driving direction: right

French weather

France has 4 climate zones; humid maritime with cool summers, semi-continental with cold winters and hot summers, temperate zone with cold winters and hot summers in the north and Mediterranean zone with mild winters and hot summers in the south of France.

The weather in Paris is variable. There is a possibility of rain in spring and summer. The air temperature from May to October is between 20 and 26 degrees. Spring in Paris is mild and relatively dry, and autumn is relatively similar to spring. July and August are the hottest months of the year. The average temperature is 6 degrees in January and 26 degrees in August. The wettest month of the year is October with an average rainfall of 71 mm.

In southern France, the Mediterranean coast has the driest climate, with significant rainfall occurring in spring and autumn. In summer, the coastal and Mediterranean areas are completely sunny and cool breeze blows from the sea. The average daily temperature is 27 degrees and the sun shines for 12 hours. In summer, 25 to 30 days of the month are completely dry.

On the Atlantic coast and Bordeaux, the weather is milder and the average temperature is 11 degrees in winter and 27 degrees in summer, and rainfall is distributed throughout the year.

The climate in the French Alps varies from north to south. Northern Alps have an oceanic climate and its rainfall is higher than other regions throughout the year. The air temperature is low and the winters are cold and sometimes heavy snow falls.

The best time to travel to France

France is a relatively large country with diverse weather and climates. You can plan a trip to France all year round and there are no restrictions on this, but if you have a specific attraction or a specific destination in mind, it is not bad to research it before choosing the travel time. The choice of travel time largely depends on your travel goals. Next, we will check the best time to travel to enjoy the various attractions of France.

The best time to visit attractions and city tours

If you want to stay away from the crowds of tourists and find an opportunity to visit various attractions in pleasant and mild weather, choose the normal season of the year or the shoulder season. In most parts of France, May and September are the normal months of the year, but in Paris this season is quite busy. Paris is a great tourist destination for all seasons of the year, so it is usually not deserted at any time of the year, but in early March and late October, the tourist population is less than other times.

The best time to enjoy beach activities

If you want to enjoy beach holidays in southern France, you should know before your trip that the sea water temperature is only warm enough for swimming from June to September. In this distance, many people travel to these areas and there is no news of deserted beaches. The best time is probably the middle of September when the water is usually still warm and the sun is shining and the number of tourists decreases a little. From April to October, the temperature is suitable for sightseeing and walking in the coastal areas.

The best time to travel to France for shopping

Many European countries, including France, have seasonal summer and winter auctions. These auctions are great opportunities for those interested in shopping to be able to buy the products they want at very reasonable and competitive prices. If you are a shopaholic, mid-January to mid-February and late June to early August are good times to travel to France to take advantage of the summer and winter auctions. Since France is so busy in the summer, if you want to take advantage of the auctions and at the same time get a significant discount on accommodation and encounter fewer tourists, choose a winter auction for your trip.

Tourist seasons in France

Like many tourist destinations in the world, France has three distinct tourism seasons. One is high season or busy season, low season or quiet season and shoulder season or normal season.

The peak tourist season in France is from mid-June to August and mid-December to early January. It means the summer season and vacation days, which is the busy season of tourism in most European countries. At this time of the year, the weather is absolutely ideal for travel and you can enjoy the long and sunny days of summer. But on the other hand, it is the busiest season for travel; During this season, queues are longer and prices are at their highest. In some areas, the busy season of tourism continues until after summer, especially in Paris, where accommodation rates usually reach their highest value between April and October.

The normal season or shoulder season lasts from April to mid-June and in the months of September and October. Apart from Paris, the regular tourist season is the best time to visit France. In this season, you will see few tourists, the temperature is mild and tolerable, and sometimes special discounts are offered to guests in French hotels. In Paris, the shoulder season is a little later than in other regions and lasts from late February to March and mid-October to mid-November.

The low season for tourism in France is from November to March, except for holidays. In the low season of the year, there are many opportunities to take advantage of various discounts and you will have a cheaper trip. Queues of tourist attractions will be much shorter and you can see the lifestyle of the city residents. But in this season, the weather may not be as mild and pleasant as you expect. If you are traveling to the northern regions, be sure to bring warm clothes because the weather gets very cold and the temperature drops to zero degrees at night. Of course, traveling in this season has its own advantages, and watching the beautiful city of Paris under the gentle snowfall is, without a doubt, an experience that will rarely be repeated in your life.

The peak tourist season in France is from mid-June to August and mid-December to early January

Travel expenses to France

The cost of accommodation

The cost of staying in hostels is 15 to 40 euros per night, and this amount depends on the location of the hostel and in which city it is located. The cost of Paris hostels is much higher than other hostels. Private rooms in hostels cost 75 euros and more per night. The cost of staying in cheap hotels starts from 60 euros per night for a double room. These rooms usually have free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

Accommodations outside of Paris, Bordeaux and the French Riviera are cheaper. On websites like Airbnb, you can find a room or an entire apartment to rent. In expensive cities like Paris, using this method is much more economical than staying in a hotel. Room rents on this site start from 15 euros, and the rent of a full apartment is 45 euros per night.

The cost of food

In France, if you can prepare your own food, you can significantly save on your travel expenses. In French markets, you can buy the freshest and best food products at reasonable prices.

All kinds of bread, cheese and protein products can be easily found in the markets and stores around you. For only 10 euros you can cook food and drink for two people. Ready-made sandwiches available in local cheap supermarkets cost between 4 and 7 euros. On the other hand, eating in a restaurant costs between 20 and 35 euros per meal, including drinks. If you buy food and cook yourself, the cost of buying the basic food needed for a week will be between 45 and 65 euros. You can shop at discount markets or chain stores such as Aldi and Lidl to save money.

Public transportation cost

The best way to travel in France and travel between cities is to use the train, but it can be expensive. To reduce your expenses, you can book night trains. High-speed trains known as TGV are the most expensive types of trains. In order to pay less, book your desired train ticket in advance. Special discounts are available for passengers under 26 years of age.

Another cheaper option you have is to use the bus, which takes longer and is suitable for when you are not in a rush to get back and have plenty of time. Urban transport systems are very extensive and efficient and cost between 1 and 3 euros per trip. The services from the airport to the city center and vice versa are usually affordable. For example, you have to pay about 10 euros for the service from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris. Taxis are the most expensive means of transportation and are best avoided unless you really have to.

The cost of recreational activities

The entrance fee for most attractions and museums in France is between 9 and 20 euros. Climbing the Eiffel Tower costs between 7 and 17 euros. Entrance to the palace and gardens of Versailles is 25 euros. Of course, there are ways to reduce the entrance fees of museums and attractions, which we will mention in the next part of the article.

The suggested average daily cost for a trip to France is 45 to 75 euros
This is a suggested cost if you have a cheap trip and save money, i.e. stay in a hostel, cook most of your meals yourself, don’t eat out too much, and use public transportation. By using the following tips, you can have a cheaper trip. If you want to have a luxury trip and stay in good hotels, the cost of your trip will be much higher than this amount.

Cost savings

France, especially its big cities such as Paris and Bordeaux, is a relatively expensive tourist destination, but this should not make you skip a trip to this spectacular country and miss this unforgettable pleasure. By considering a few tips, you can have a cheaper trip without having to give up much of the pleasures of travel.

Try a picnic: Eating out in a restaurant in France, especially in big cities like Paris, is a fun, yet very expensive, activity. A restaurant can easily take up a large part of your travel budget. Although it is worth spending, sometimes we cannot benefit from it due to financial limitations. Instead of going to a restaurant, you can try a picnic, which is very common among French people. Visit the nearby shops, buy some delicious French breads and cheeses and delicious protein products, and have a great picnic in one of the nearby green spaces. With less than 10 euros, you can eat delicious food and have a good time in the heart of nature. This is something that is very common among the people of France and it is a great opportunity to get to know the lifestyle of the people of this country and get to know them in parks and green spaces.

Don’t opt ​​for fast trains: Train travel in Europe and in France is cheap and fun, and certainly the most convenient way to travel between cities in France. TGV trains are high-speed and expensive trains, but if you choose Eurail trains, you will pay less.

Shop at the markets: If you decide to cook for yourself, visit the open-air markets that are usually set up in all cities to buy basic food. From these markets, you can buy the best and freshest ingredients and prepare a delicious French meal yourself. By doing this, you will significantly save on your food expenses. In addition, visiting these markets is a great opportunity to get to know the lifestyle of city dwellers and provides an opportunity to communicate closely with them and distance yourself from tourist areas and routes.

Use travel sharing services: To save money on intercity or domestic travel, you can use travel sharing services like BlaBlaCar. With the help of these services, you can travel the same route with several other people and divide the travel expenses between you. The drivers of this service are all verified and reliable, and using this service is completely safe. Of course, it also has disadvantages, including the fact that it may be difficult to coordinate and may not be completed. For this reason, you must be flexible in your travel time.

Eat lunch in a restaurant: If you like to experience eating in French restaurants, postpone it to lunch. In lunch meals, the dishes are usually shorter and their price is almost half of the dinner menu.

Find a host on the Coachsurfing site: with the help of this service, you can stay at a home for free. In this way, you can have a close relationship with one of the residents and see their lifestyle closely. Also, you have a local guide who will show you around the city and its attractions. In France, many hosts are ready to welcome tourists. During the busy tourist seasons, be sure to submit your request long in advance. Be sure to try this method on one of your trips.

Take advantage of being under 26: France has significant discounts for under 26s. To use this opportunity, you must have an international student card.

Sights of France

From the chic and modern boulevards of Paris to the coastal promenades of the Cote d’Azur, France has the most beautiful tourist attractions in the world. Castles that seem to have come out of old stories, tall and magnificent old churches, villages with unrepeatable views next to modern and contemporary attractions are just a corner of France’s sights. Some of the most important museums, churches and tourist attractions in the world are located in France. You have heard of all of them at least once and most of them are on your must-see list.

Apart from many tourist attractions, France is the land of delicious food and the cuisine of this country has been registered as an intangible cultural heritage in UNESCO. Each region has its own cuisine.

The nature of France is also very diverse and attractive. From mountainous regions to coastal nature, everything you consider an ideal tourist destination can be found in this country. In the following, we introduce some of the most important attractions in France, but the beauty of France is not limited to these attractions. A trip of several days is not enough to enjoy them all.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and one of the most important landmarks in the world. This famous and spectacular structure is made of 8 thousand metal pieces. This tower was designed by a person named Gustave Eiffel as a design for the World Exhibition of 1889. Although this structure faced a lot of criticism at the beginning, today it is one of the most popular attractions in Paris. The height of this tower is 320 meters and it shines in the city skyline of Paris. Breathtaking views of the city can be seen on all three floors of this tower, and tourists are usually amazed by the size and splendor of this tower when they see it up close. There are many famous restaurants in this tower where you can have the most delicious and memorable dinner of your life. From the top floor of the tower, a wide view of Paris can be seen, which reaches 70 kilometers on clear and sunny days.

Louvre Museum

In the former royal palace of the kings of France, the Louvre museum is located, which is one of the best museums in Europe in the field of fine arts. In this museum, some of the most famous artworks of Western civilizations are kept, including the Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo da Vinci and the Marriage at Cana painting by Veronese. This museum owes its valuable collections to the kings who lived in the Louvre. This museum has more than 30,000 works of art, including the best masterpieces of indescribable value. It is not possible to visit all parts of the museum in one day. That’s why you should choose a part of the museum to see or have a list of the best works in the museum and just take the time to see them.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is more than just a royal residence and is designed to represent the glory and honor of the French monarchy. Louis XIV transformed his father’s small hunting lodge into a magnificent palace with a baroque interior. This palace became a symbol of Louis XIV’s power and set a new standard for royal palaces. The architect named Jules Hardouin-Mansart created the magnificent baroque facade and the luxurious interior of this palace. Hall of Mirrors is a part of the palace where courtiers and people waited to meet the king. This magnificent hall shines beautifully under the sunlight. Apart from its magnificent architecture, this palace is known for the unique gardens designed around it. Luxurious water features, decorative ponds and beautiful gardens and beautiful ornamental plants and shrubs are among the features of the garden.

Côte d’Azur

The Cote d’Azur, the most beautiful coastline in France, is a magnificent and fascinating attraction. Cote d’Azur means blue beaches and the reason for this name is the endless blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Cote d’Azur is also known as the French Riviera. In the summer season, the coastal promenades of this area are filled with tourists who are interested in the beach and the sun. Among these tourists, you will find famous and rich people of the world who have fun in their stylish villas and luxury yachts. The city of Nice is located in this area, it has wonderful views of the sea and a spectacular art museum. Cannes is known for its famous film festival and its wonderful hotels. In this area, beautiful sandy beaches are located next to fishing villages. Step by step, this area is full of beauty and charm.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel rises from the sea in a beautiful and eye-catching way on the coast of Normandy. Mont Saint Michel is one of the most beautiful landmarks in France. Known as the Pyramid of the Seas, this area has a mysterious landscape that is located on a rocky island surrounded by walls. This high hill turns into an island when the sea water rises. At low tide, it is accessible through a narrow coastline. The most important attraction of this island is the Saint Michel Monastery, which was founded in 708 AD by Bishop Ober. This monastery is one of the best examples of medieval architecture, and its Gothic minarets stretch up to 155 meters above the sea, and in addition to the spiritual and peaceful atmosphere, it has very beautiful views. This monastery is a very important place of pilgrimage and is so important that it is called Heavenly Jerusalem.

Loire Valley Châteaux

A trip to the Loire Valley is like turning the pages of an old children’s story book. In the shadow of forests and valleys, a beautiful palace has been built as if it came out of the hearts of stories. This palace is surrounded by moats and towers. The entire area of ​​the Loire Valley is a green and beautiful and historic area, which is also known as the Garden of France and has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Some of the palaces in the region are medieval fortresses built on hills and surrounded by old fortifications. However, the most famous palace in this area is a palace built in the Renaissance style.

Chartres Cathedral

For more than 8 centuries, the magnificence of Notre Dame de Chartres has inspired artists, writers, and religious people. This beautiful church is one of the works registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List and its architectural style is Gothic. The size of the church is 2,500 square meters and it has very large and magnificent colored glass windows that have given this complex a special and mystical atmosphere.

Some of these windows date back to the 13th century. The rose window shines like a jewel in this church because of its unique details and special beauty. From April to October, a light show is held in this church, which includes the extraordinary lighting of the church, which makes it shine beautifully at night.

Provance

Provence is a beautiful region with unique natural landscapes full of sunny hills and olive trees and beautiful lavender fields. Small and large villages are located in the valleys and rocky heights of this area, each of which is a world of colorful and spectacular attractions. Provence is a wonderful combination of natural and rural beauty and rural lifestyle. Strolling through the cobbled streets and enjoying a cup of coffee on the sunny terraces of cafes are among the attractions of this area for tourists. Visiting colorful local markets and eating local delicacies prepared with the freshest olive oil and aromatic local vegetables are just a few of the unique pleasures of a trip to Provence. Provence even has ancient sites and traditional festivals.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

The village of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc at the foot of Mont-Blanc in the French Alps is an unforgettable attraction that you should never miss. Mont Blanc is the highest peak in Europe and forms part of the border between France and Italy. Mont Blanc, which means white mountain, has a height of 4810 meters and is always covered with snow. At the foot of this tall and white mountain, there is a beautiful and traditional village of Chamonix, which is located in a beautiful and eye-catching valley. This charming and cozy village is full of old churches, traditional restaurants and beautiful country houses. This village is a good destination for those who are interested in skiing, hiking, rock climbing and adventurous recreational activities in the heart of nature. You can relax in the infinite beauty of this village and enjoy listening to the sound of the rivers. You should not miss the delicious dishes of this region, which are prepared with the freshest local products and the best and highest quality French cheeses. Fondue and raclette are two examples of delicious dishes that you must try in one of its cozy and traditional restaurants when traveling to Chamonix.

Alsace region villages

Some of the most beautiful and picturesque villages of France are located in the green and spectacular region of Alsace and on its high hills. These beautiful Alsatian villages, with beautiful traditional houses and beautiful natural scenery, are located next to old churches. The beautiful flower-filled balconies of the houses dazzle the eyes of every viewer, and the paved streets of these villages give life to evening walks. Each and every village in this region can be an attractive and unique tourist destination. Some of them have won special awards for their colorful and flowery decorations. If you want to experience the rural lifestyle or see the most beautiful villages in France, be sure to visit the Alsace region. In addition to natural beauty, these villages are known for their special cooking style. The foods of this region are more delicious than each other and you should not miss the opportunity to try them during your trip.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne, with its high towers and concentric fortifications, seems to have come straight out of an old story and settled here. This old city, with its historical and beautiful fortifications, takes tourists on a journey through time; to the Middle Ages. This walled city, which is also known as Cite, is an enclosed world, full of narrow and cobbled streets, winding alleys and old and beautiful houses. Every alley, street and old building you see in this city has a sign of the past. The most important attraction of the city is its old fortifications, which have 54 towers. An old 13th century church with attractive stained glass is one of the other attractions of the city that you must make time for. The Bastille Day or French National Day fireworks on July 14 are spectacular.

Brittany

Brittany is a beautiful historical region on the east coast of France. Beautiful coastal cliffs, cozy fishing villages and lively and colorful harbors are some of the features of this region that have made it attract the attention of tourists. This region is famous for its ancient traditions and religious festivals. Brittany is a mysterious land full of stories and legends. The cuisine of this region is also famous for its delicious crepes and unique desserts. Small and large historical cities are located in the corners of this region, each of which has special attractions such as numerous churches and old buildings. Other attractive sights of Britain include pristine sandy beaches, small remote islands and old castles.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a beautiful seaside town on the spectacular Bay of Biscay. This coastal tourist city has a luxurious and aristocratic atmosphere. This city was one of the favorite destinations of Queen Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III. The palace where they live has been turned into a luxury hotel. It is a very luxurious hotel with excellent restaurants. These restaurants have a Michelin star that proves their quality. Beautiful views of the Grand Plage beach can be seen from this hotel. This beautiful and wide sandy beach, with promenades by the sea, is one of the most important sights of this region. This coastal city has other attractions, including an aquarium, a lighthouse, and…

Rocamadour

Rocamadour is one of the sacred and unforgettable places in France, located on a rock between the earth and the sky. Here in the 11th century, it was the third most important pilgrimage destination among Christians. This old village is full of historical monasteries and churches. In these churches, old statues of the Holy Mary are kept.

One of the most important attractions of this area is the Basilica Saint-Sauveur. The largest Rocamadour church, which was built in the Gothic and Romanesque styles between the 11th and 13th centuries, is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Ancient paintings in Lascaux cave

In Lascaux, tourists are amazed to see ancient paintings that date back to prehistoric times. This cave and its paintings have been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This collection was discovered in 1940, but to protect it from damage, it is not accessible to the public. A similar example of this cave was built nearby called Laskoy 2, which is 220 meters away from the main cave. This cave is a completely faithful and accurate copy of the original cave, and all its paintings have been restored with great care. Each and every detail of the paintings and even their color combination have been carefully copied. One of the most important and spectacular parts of it is the Hall of Cows, where images of cows, horses and wild cows are carved in an amazing way. Lascave Cave 2 is made so accurately that it has no difference with the original cave, and tourists can fully understand the attractions of Lascave Cave in this reconstructed example.

Recently, a part called the International Center of Cave Arts has been added to this collection, which is located right above Laskoi Cave 2. This beautiful museum is dedicated to the ancient arts discovered in the caves. To visit this cave and museum, you must book guided tours. These small group tours accompany you for a complete visit to the museum and cave and to learn about its history and details.

Champs Elysee Street

Champs-Elysées, the most important and famous street in Paris, is a fashionable and expensive street that until the 16th century was a wide plain where markets were located. Champs-Elysées Street is one of the most famous streets in the world with its many beauty, famous cafe terraces and luxury shops and theaters. Champs-Élysées means “Elysée Plain” and the Elysée Palace is also located near this street. Elysée means heaven in Greek mythology. This boulevard is 1,910 meters long and is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris and in the northwest of this city. This street starts from Concord Square and ends at Charles de Gaulle Square (Etoile Square). The triumphal arch at the west end of the street is called the crown of Champs Elysees.

The triumphal arch at the west end of the street is called the crown of Champs-Elysées
The upper part of the street is surrounded by luxury shops, excellent hotels, restaurants and cafes. This beautiful and spectacular street, according to the French, is the most beautiful street in the world, it attracts many tourists and is the place where the people of Paris hang out.

This street hosts some of the most important stores, confectioneries, hotels and restaurants in the city. If you want to see the luxury lifestyle in Paris, shop at the world’s best brand stores or visit the best and most luxurious restaurants in the city, be sure to take the time to explore this street. Even if you don’t intend to shop, browsing this street is a pure experience that you should never miss. Although the Champs Elysees is known as a luxury and expensive street, it also has choices for students and travelers with limited budgets. For example, Starbucks and McDonald’s branches or H&M store.

Musee d’Orsay

d’Orsay Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in France and a valuable collection of Impressionist works of art. This museum is located in a large building that used to be the Eros train station. This museum has exhibited some of the best works of art and masterpieces of artists who have created works in the field of reception. Among these artists, we can mention familiar names such as Degas, Monet and Renoir. Works of post-reception artists Van Gogh and Bonar are also displayed in this museum.

You will see some of the most important works of art in this museum, which you must have heard many times. If you are an art lover, the Orsay Museum is one of the first attractions in France that you must visit. This museum has another section dedicated to decorative arts and photography. There is also an excellent cafe and restaurant in this complex, which is undoubtedly worth paying for. This restaurant has been registered as one of the historical monuments of France due to its historical value and unique architecture.

Palais Garnier Opera House

The Palais Garnier Opera House is a magnificent neo-baroque building built as a venue for ballet and opera performances. This building was built by Charles Garnier between 1862 and 1875. The facade of the building has columns in a classical style and has 8 tetendis, each of which is a symbol of a concept; Music, poetry, etc., this opera house has hosted many famous artists, including Beethoven and Mozart. This complex has an area of ​​about 11,000 square meters and a capacity for 2,200 people. Most of the area of ​​this complex is dedicated to the main hall, which has a magnificent entrance with marble columns and a luxurious staircase. The auditorium of the complex with red and golden curtains is another attractive feature of this complex. The main hall is beautifully decorated with wall paintings.

To get a deeper understanding of the history of opera in France, you can visit the library of the Opera House Museum, which is located in the same building. This library and museum contains an archive of 3 centuries of artistic activity in France and also has exhibitions dedicated to opera. The museum’s permanent collection includes paintings of old clothes, small models and paintings of the opera house. Throughout the year, the museum hosts temporary thematic exhibitions dedicated to various artistic subjects, especially opera and ballet.

One of the attractive recreational activities for French tourists is to attend a ballet or opera performance at Garnier Palace. This complex also has a stylish restaurant where classic French cuisine is served.

Place de la Concorde

Concord Square was built between 1755 and 1775. This large octagonal square was right in the center of 18th century Paris. Concord Square is one of the most beautiful squares in the city despite its special architecture and large size. This square has hosted various historical events and has experienced many incidents. In summer, a Ferris wheel is located in this square. This square is a very busy intersection with heavy traffic and high speed cars, and drivers usually do not pay attention to pedestrians. So be sure to be careful when crossing the square.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a monument in Paris located on Charles de Gaulle Square and at the west end of Champs Elysees. This building was built in honor of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for France throughout history, especially during Napoleon’s reign. Napoleon ordered the construction of this spectacular structure in 1806, but he did not live to see the completed building in 1836. This building was designed by a person named JF Chalgrin. The arch of this structure has very large reliefs, even larger than the actual size, which symbolizes the victory and the proud return of the French forces to the homeland. In the inner part of this arch, the names of more than 660 commanders and more than one hundred battles are written. From the viewing platform of this arch, a view of 12 surrounding streets can be seen. including Champs Elysees and Concorde Square. At the bottom of this arch, there is a tomb called Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was dedicated in 1921 as a memorial to the victims of the First World War. At the bottom and on the eastern side of this building, a fire is always burning in memory of the unknown soldier, which is renewed every afternoon during a special ceremony with natural gas. The height of the building is 49.5 meters, its width is 45 meters and the depth of this building is 22 meters. This triumphal arch is the largest triumphal arch in the world.

Sainte-Chapelle Church

St. Chapelle shines like a pearl in the Ile de la Cite region. This building is a relic of the Middle Ages, a masterpiece in the field of Gothic architecture. This spectacular building was built between 1241 and 1248 to house valuable antiques left over from the Byzantine Empire. This chapel is known more than anything for its attractive stained glass windows, which gives a spiritual atmosphere and a special charm to this church. The colors and light shining from this window are a symbol of spirituality. This church is rarely used for religious ceremonies, but it is often used as a concert venue. Listening to classical music in this attractive environment is a special and unforgettable experience.

Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens are one of the most famous green spaces and spectacular parks in Paris. In the 17th century, when the Luxembourg Palace was built, this garden was also formed. The current form of this garden is the result of architectural design named after J.F. Chalgrin in the 19th century. In the center of the park, there is an octagonal pond with a beautiful fountain. This garden is designed in the classical French style and there are many benches throughout it for the use of visitors.

This park is one of the popular hangouts of Parisians for sightseeing and friendly dates. Especially the students of the Latin neighborhood who choose here for a picnic. Among the other sights of this park, we can mention another water feature that is hidden under the trees and very beautiful statues have been made to decorate it. The surroundings of this pond and this water feature are usually full of children who play with miniature boats around it.

A traditional puppet show called Grand Guignol is held in this park, which usually attracts the attention of children. In the southeast of the park, right next to the tennis court, there is the Luxembourg Theater, which has a capacity of 275 people and attractive puppet shows are held there.

Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre neighborhood

Sakre Kor Church is located at the highest point of the city just like a jewel in a ring. This church has a special spirituality and atmosphere, and its magnificent and beautiful facade is a combination of Renaissance architecture and Byzantine style, and looks like a wedding cake from a distance, and is known by the same name among the people. The interior of the church is beautifully decorated with attractive mosaics that create a spiritual atmosphere. The church is lit by numerous candles, which contrasts interestingly with its dark atmosphere.

Tourists can spend part of the time visiting this complex on the terrace and watch beautiful views of Paris from above. The promenade that leads to this church is one of the popular areas for the people of the city to have fun and is usually always full of street musicians. If you’re planning to visit Sacre Coeur, consider taking a stroll through the Montmartre neighborhood. This neighborhood is one of the old and charming neighborhoods of the city, which you must have seen in many famous movies, including the amazing fate of Amelie Pollen. The cobbled streets and art museums of this neighborhood are other reasons why you should spend time exploring it.

Pantheon

The Pantheon was originally built as a church and is now the burial place and mausoleum of many of France’s great men. In 1756, Louis XV ordered a new church to be built on the site of the ruined monastery of San Junio. The construction of the church was completed in 1790. Pantheon architecture is a combination of several different architectural styles, including Rococo and Neoclassical. This symbolic and beautiful building has inspired many architects to build many similar buildings in France and in other parts of the world. Great and famous people like Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo and Emile Zola are buried in the Pantheon.

Notre Dame Cathedral Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the masterpieces of Gothic architecture, is located in the heart of Paris on a small island in the Seine River. This church is located near the Latin quarter. Ile de la Cité, located in the Seine River, is the historical and geographical center of Paris.

From the 6th to the 14th century, French kings resided in this spectacular area of ​​Paris. Notre Dame Cathedral was founded in 1163 by Louis IX or Saint Louis. The construction of this church took more than 150 years. At the beginning, the church was built in the early Gothic style, but later various parts were added to it, which indicates the transition of the style to “High Gothic”.

When tourists see the church for the first time, they are overwhelmed by the grandeur and splendor of its entrance. Statues, dragon mouths and small and large parts of the entrance of the church attract the attention of every viewer. In the Hall of Kings, you can see 21 statues that were damaged and lost their heads during the French Revolution. The heads of these statues are kept in the Cluny Museum.

After admiring the beautiful and amazing entrance of the church, you enter the main and vaulted space of the church, which is exemplary in its size and splendor. A space that is lit and decorated with beautiful candlesticks. Large windows with colored glass are another part of the charm of this church.

On Saturdays and Sundays at 9:15 p.m., a stunning audio and video show is performed, which attracts the attention of tourists. A 100 square meter screen is reserved for this show and its entrance is free.

Diet in France

French cuisine is famous all over the world. This style of cooking is known for its excellent and unique dishes, whose flavor and taste are unique. French cooking, like an art, has its own subtleties. The most famous French dishes are known all over the world and some of them have entered the diet of people in other countries.

Traditional French dishes are prepared with the simplest and limited basic ingredients, but they have a unique taste and their combination is very harmonious and delicious. Many French chefs have made a significant impact on this style of cooking and cooking in the world. Food and cooking are an integral part of French culture, and French cuisine was registered in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2010.

One of the ingredients used in French cuisine is cheese, which needs no definition. The variety of cheeses in France is very remarkable and the people of the country attach great importance to this product. In France, cheeses are usually served after the main course and before dessert.

Of course, each region of France has its own local cuisine, in addition to the classic French cuisine that is common throughout the country. These dishes are inspired by the lifestyle of the people of that region in distant times or have been influenced by neighboring countries. If you have the opportunity to visit different regions during your trip to France, be sure to try the local food of each region.

When traveling to France, you will definitely want to try French cuisine. In order to make a better choice in French restaurants, it is not bad to know some of the most famous French dishes before your trip.

In 2010, French cuisine was registered as an intangible cultural heritage in the UNESCO list.

onion soup

Onion soup is a traditional French soup that is known all over the world. They use onion and beef extract to prepare it. Usually this soup is served with toasted thin slices of bread and melted cheese is poured on it. This soup dates back to the Roman era. This food is actually a special food for the poor and it is prepared with the simplest and most available food. The modern model of this soup dates back to the 18th century. The special taste of the soup is due to the caramelization of the onion and the flavorings that are added at the end of the cooking process. The main ingredient of this soup is actually meat extract. Sometimes they only use water to prepare it and make it thicker by adding eggs and flour.

Ratatouille

You must have heard the name of ratatouille and maybe you have prepared it at home. Ratatouille is another popular French dish that is famous all over the world. This dish is specific to the southeastern region of France, which is prepared with a variety of vegetables and can be served as a side dish or a full main dish. To prepare this dish, first, the vegetables used are cooked in shallow pans on high flame and a little oil is added to it. Then other cooking steps are done in the oven. Of course, there are different ways to prepare this dish, and chefs disagree about the main method, but whatever the method of preparation, the final result is very enjoyable. The main ingredients of this dish are tomato, garlic, onion, pumpkin, eggplant, carrot, bell pepper, basil, marjoram and other aromatic vegetables.

Kasouleh

Cassoulet is a simple and comforting French dish made by steaming white beans and meat. Different chefs use different meats to prepare this dish. Some of them even use duck and goose meat to prepare cassoulet. This dish originally belongs to the southern regions of France and is very popular in Toulouse and Carcassonne. The name of this dish is taken from the name of the special dish used to prepare it. This hearty and healthy food is very suitable for the cold months of the year.

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon, or in French, boeuf bourguignon, is one of the traditional French dishes that is famous all over the world. This dish has spread from a region called Burgundy, in the east of France, to all parts of the country. This food is prepared in various ways, but its main ingredients are almost the same in all recipes. To prepare it, they use ingredients such as beef extract flavored with garlic and onion, aromatic vegetables and mushrooms. The recipe for this dish is one of the best examples of rural cuisine that has found its place in high-level cooking. Traditionally, it takes two days to prepare this dish and it takes a lot of time for the meat to become flavorful.

Chocolate souffle

The word soufflé is derived from a French verb meaning to puff. Chocolate souffle is a fluffy dessert that dates back to the 18th century. In France, souffle is prepared sweet or salty. You will find chocolate souffle on the menu of many restaurants around the world. The crispy chocolate crust and creamy and soft texture of this dessert have made it one of the most popular desserts in the world.

Flemish

Flemish means cake and originates from the northern regions of France. This delicious dish has a relatively soft crust and is filled with ingredients such as cheese and various vegetables. This dish is almost similar to quiche. The traditional filling of this dish is leek and cream. A Flemish model similar to pizza is also prepared, which only has a base crust and is not covered with dough.

duck confit

Duck confit is a very delicious French dish, which of course sometimes uses other meats, such as goose. This dish is known as one of the best and most popular French dishes. The method of preparing this dish has been popular for more than a century. To prepare it, duck meat is marinated or flavored with ingredients such as salt, garlic and aromatic vegetables for at least 36 hours, then slowly cooked on low heat. They do not add any oil to the food and the food is prepared with the oil it produces. This dish is usually served with tandoori potatoes and garlic. Today, this dish is common throughout France, but it is a special dish of the Gascony region.

Tart Totten

This French apple tart was invented by mistake in 1898. Someone named Stephanie Tatten, who wanted to make a regular apple pie, forgot that the apples were frying in oil and sugar, and the apples stayed on the heat for too long. To prevent the apples from burning, she placed the pie crust on top and baked the pie in the same pan. In this way, an upside down apple pie was invented. The hotel guests welcomed this new pie and this dessert became the special food of the hotel. Although there are disagreements about the origin of this tart, the result is a unique and wonderful taste.

nice salad

Nicoise salad is a type of traditional French salad that is specific to the Provence region, but nowadays it is popular all over the country. This salad may be served as a side dish or even a light meal. Its basic ingredients include lettuce, tomatoes, boiled eggs, fresh or canned fish, green beans, olives, etc. Of course, there are different types of this salad and its types may differ in the main raw materials.

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