France is one of the most visited countries in the world. This beautiful country has much to offer travellers, from its rich culture to its history and even some of the best food you'll ever taste. It's no wonder that so many people travel to France every year. The rich history and culture make it appealing, but there are also other reasons why people love France.
In this guide, we're going to dive into all things France: why people visit, what they love about it, which cities they should go to when traveling there (and why), famous landmarks like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, plus other travel facts.
Here are some of the best reasons to make France your next vacation, travel, or adventure destination.
France Has a Rich and Deep Culture
France is one of the most romantic countries in the world. It also has some of the most renowned food in the world, which makes it a good place to visit if you're looking for a culinary adventure.
The French have a long history, and there are many landmarks worth seeing if you want to learn more about this country's past. Many cities have been around for centuries, meaning they have lots of cultural history and architectural marvels like cathedrals and castles.
France has been a significant player in the history of Europe and world history at large, which means its culture is rich and deep. For centuries, France has been the center of the western world.
France's cultural contribution to Western Civilization (and indeed, all of humanity) cannot be overstated. From fine art to philosophy to cuisine, French influence is everywhere in our lives today.
France Has Some of the Best Cuisine in the World
French cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. It blends traditional French cooking techniques with modern gastronomy and is known for its use of fresh ingredients and herbs, spices, and sauces.
No matter where you go, whether it is France or another country, the French love their food and are proud of their heritage of fine dining. French cuisine reflects French culture and history as well as the landscape and seasons in which it was created.
French cuisine has been influenced by many cultures that have settled in France over time. For example, in southwest France, there are strong Portuguese influences on local dishes such as Paella Valenciana (a rice dish) or Ris de Veau à la Bordelaise (veal sweetbreads sautéed with shallots).
France is also one of the largest producers of wine in the world. France has more than 2,000 wine regions, many of which are classified into "appellations d'origine contrôlée" (AOC). Some of these regions include Champagne (home to sparkling wines), Alsace (known for sweet whites), Bordeaux (known for reds), and Burgundy (known for white wines).
France's Landmarks
France is full of landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in Paris to the Roman ruins in Lyon. France also has many stunning cathedrals and medieval castles. Tourists from around the world flock to see these attractions every year.
The Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris and one of the most visited paid monuments in the world. It was built for the World Fair in 1889, initially as a temporary structure, and it’s been standing proud since that time. The Eiffel Tower stands 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall and weighs 10,000 tons; it comprises 18,000 pieces of iron and 2 million rivets.
The best way to see this famous landmark is by taking an elevator up to one of its two platforms: at 300 meters (984 feet) or 350 meters (1148 feet). Several packages are available depending on how many times you want to go up: once only costs €14 per person. At the same time, other options include unlimited access with lunch or dinner included.
The Cathedral of Notre Dame is one of the most famous cathedrals in France and a must-see for any traveler. It is located on Ile de la Cite in Paris and is a Gothic cathedral built between 1163 and 1345. It's also home to the Crown of Thorns, supposedly worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. The cathedral has been destroyed multiple times throughout history but has been rebuilt after each fire or war. In 2018, more than ten million people visited this historic landmark making it one of the most visited places in France.
Paris, France
You're probably already familiar with the capital of France. It boasts some of the world's most excellent museums and landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, Paris offers many options for travelers who want to see all the city offers.
Paris is known as the city of romance because it was here that so many famous love stories took place over centuries past (including those of Nicholas Sparks.). It's also known as "La Ville-lumière" ("the city of lights") because it has been a center for fashion since Louis XIV first introduced his new techniques there in 1660.
Some other nicknames include "la Ville des arts et des Lettres" ("the city of arts and letters"), "le petit Paris" (little Paris) due to its resemblance to its namesake capital across the channel; or simply "the City."
France's Art
Art is everywhere in France. It's not just the museums but also the architecture and design of everyday life that adds to the experience of being here. The country has such a rich history of art that you can't help but find yourself surrounded by it at all times.
France has some of the best artists in the world and some of the best art museums in the world; they have some genuinely beautiful galleries too—and they're not all located on Paris' rue de Rivoli or near Notre Dame.
You'll find them scattered across small towns and major cities like Bordeaux and Lyon, Toulouse and Strasbourg. Some of these smaller cities even have their contemporary art biennales (a festival dedicated to showcasing new talent).
All French artists share their ability to make beautiful things out of seemingly mundane objects: an everyday object such as an old chair becomes something special through clever use of materials or perspective.
France's Romance
The French are known for their romance and love stories. Many books have been written about the various romantic endeavors of the French people. For example, one book titled Love in Paris: A Guide to Romance by Adam Platt chronicles some of the most romantic locations in France and some of the most famous love stories in those locations.
Another book, The Romance Reader's Guide to France by Susan Alison and Marie-Louise Gay, focuses on specific areas where couples can visit together to get closer or even fall in love. In addition to these resources, numerous travel guides will help you learn more about this topic.
Conclusion
France offers plenty of options, whether it's food, art, or history that interests you. With so much variety in culture, architecture, and landscape, among other things, there is no other country like France.
If you want more practical tips and information on how to travel to France, one of the best things you can do is check out our resources and blog here at ETIAS. Our goal is to help ensure that all international travel within Europe is as easy as possible.
Whether you're just wanting to make a brief visit for a week or looking for an extended trip to France for work or school, we provide information on what travel authorisation you will need for Europe The ETIAS system is designed to make sure that people can travel between different countries in the EU safely and efficiently with greater security and convenience.
If you want to learn more about how your travels can be enhanced and benefit by ETIAS, vist the ETIAS requirements or the ETIAS FAQ..
Sources:
France | History, Map, Flag, Population, Cities, Capital, & Facts | Britannica