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Perfectly situated in the middle of western Europe, France is a coveted destination for many of the world’s travelers. The allure of Paris, the historic villages curving throughout Normandy and regions of Provence, the art museums of Nice, the famed beaches of the Riviera, and the ancestral palaces littering curvaceous country-sides are just a sampling of the surplus of vexing areas France offers visitors. So, to help focus on where to go first, here’s some of the top motivations for visiting the blissful country.
Top Reasons to Go There
Retaining their historic charm and architecture, the quaint villages in many French cities offer unparalleled views and chances to experience the country’s quiet pace of life. Just off the coast of Normandy, the island of Mont-Saint-Michel welcomes visitors to a unique medieval town complete with an abbey crowned by a spire. In eastern Alsace-Lorraine, a Shakespearean-themed village retains many of its timbered structures. And, in the southern region of Provence, visitors can relax in manicured squares watching flowing fountains for hours.
One of France’s most cherished monuments, the Palace of Versailles, is one of the top visited sites in the country. Known as the former residence of Louis XVI and his wife Marie-Antoinette, thousands tour its magnificent halls to marvel at all the glittering gold, collection of crystal, and endless tapestries. And, you can spend hours strolling through its expansive gardens.
When thinking of France, food certainly comes to mind. For centuries, the country has been known for its exceptional sauces, bread, cheeses, champagne and pastries, just to name a few. And, the French are known for their reverence of great food which is shown in the plethora of streets lined with tables and chairs of outdoor cafes. The expanse of France’s cuisine can be found in any of its bistros, brasseries and famous gourmet restaurants in every region of the country.
Another top reason to go to France is for its art. The country is home to some of the world’s top museums. If you admire modern art, cities on the Riviera are filled with several collections. In Nice, visitors marvel at the collection of the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. And, the famed Musee de Louvre, on the banks of the Seine in Paris, has been touted as the best museum collection in the world featuring works by artists like Cezanne, Degas and Gauguin.