What France is famous for: the history of the country, interesting places, attractions and famous French people. Sights of France What is France famous for?

Each country has its own stereotypes and traditions, but France is capable of surpassing many in this regard. This country is well known throughout the world for its strange quirks and traditions. However, some of them are significantly inflated and exaggerated, while others are completely fictional. For example, wine is really very important to French culture. And while the French do enjoy long lunch breaks, they aren't quite as lazy as some people think. Along with the UK, it is one of the fastest growing and most culturally diverse European countries. It is also the most visited country in the world with over 83 million tourists annually. From the Côte d'Azur in the south to the icy peaks of the Alps and green rolling hills with thriving viticulture, France is definitely worth a visit any time of year. This article presents 25 unique facts about France that are worth learning about.

There is only one STOP sign in all of Paris


In France you are allowed to marry a dead person. To do this, you must send a request to the president.


French toast isn't actually French. It was created in its modern form by Joseph French (hence the misconception).


Louis XIX was King of France... for 20 minutes.


At the Petite Café Syrah in Paris, coffee will cost you much more if you don't say "please".


License plates for cars were first introduced in France.


In France, it is illegal to call a pig Napoleon.

Most old bridge in Paris they call it the "new bridge".


Together with its foreign territories, France covers 12 different time zones. This is more than any other country in the world!


For more than 200 years, until 2012, women did not have the official right to wear pants in Paris. This law was ignored by everyone, and no one monitored its observance. That is why the decision was made to abolish it.


More people speak French in Africa than in Europe.


Parisian taxi drivers pay almost 200,000 euros for their licenses.


All champagne is produced in the French Champagne region. If it is produced elsewhere, then it is simply a local version of sparkling wine.


The average Frenchman sleeps almost 9 hours a day (8.83). This is the highest rate in the developed world.


With over 80 million tourists every year, France is the most visited country on Earth. The United States is in second place with 73 million. This is not surprising, because the list of attractions in France can be expanded endlessly.


France once controlled almost 10% of the world's territories.


One in five French people suffers from depression, making France the most depressed country on Earth.


The French government awards medals to large families who "raise their children successfully and with dignity."


During World War II, when Hitler visited Paris, the French cut the elevator cables to the Eiffel Tower. If Hitler wanted to visit the top of the most popular

France is a country of romance, love, sensual emotions, walks until the morning. On its territory you can find everything - the Alps, beautiful beaches Cote d'Azur, the famous Champs Elysees, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles and other attractions.

The sheer diversity of France makes it an ideal destination for tourists. In addition, this country has a rich history and has been one of the most influential in Europe for many centuries!

1. The name of the country comes from the name of the Germanic tribe of Franks, and the word “Frank” itself meant “free”.
2. This country is the leader in terms of attendance. Every year the number of tourists exceeds the country's population.
3. France is the most large country European Union (643,801 km²). It is shaped like a hexagon, which is why it is often called L'Hexagone.
4. The French motto "Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité", which translates as "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity", also originated during the Great Revolution (1789-1799), and can now be found everywhere.
5. The unofficial symbol of France is the Gallic rooster. When the Romans came to France, they called its inhabitants Gauls because they had red locks and their hairstyles resembled cockscombs (in Latin, “rooster” sounds like “gallus”), and the country itself was called Gaul. The rooster became the national emblem of France during the French Revolution of the 18th century, when the image of the rooster appeared on the new twenty-franc coin. Since then, the rooster has appeared on stamps, medals, posters and even became the emblem of the French National Olympic Committee. The French believe that the rooster best symbolizes their fighting spirit and enthusiasm.
6. Another symbol of France is Marianne, a young woman who wears a cap. She represents the motto of France "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity", and a bust of Marianne is required in all institutions. Over the years, the most beautiful actresses in France were chosen as the prototype of Marianne: Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve, Laetitia Casta, Sophie Marceau and others.
7. The French occupy first place in wine consumption per capita, and in terms of the amount of wine produced they compete with Italy, which periodically snatches the palm from France. There are about 450 names of French wines, and 70% of adults admit that they have little knowledge of wine varieties.
8. Everyone knows that the French love a special long and narrow bread - baguette. According to one version, this type of bread appeared during construction Paris metro. Clashes often arose between the workers, and since they carried bread knives with them, everything could end in injury. Therefore, bakers were asked to bake bread that did not need to be cut. The tradition of breaking a baguette with your hands has survived to this day, and in Paris alone about 500 thousand baguettes are sold every day!

1. The flag of France is a tricolor in which white symbolizes the Bourbon royal family, and red and blue were the colors of the Paris Commune, thus combining monarchy and revolution in this flag.
2. The national anthem is the La Marseillaise, written during the French Revolution. Despite the name, it was created not in Marseille, but in Strasbourg by military engineer Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle to raise the morale of soldiers. The song was called "Military March of the Army of the Rhine", but the people of Marseille liked it so much that they chose it for their battalion. No one really knew the author of the song, so when the Marseille volunteer battalion sang it as they entered Paris, everyone decided that the song was written in Marseille. It became the official anthem of France in 1793.
3. The French are one of the most depressed nations. They rank first worldwide in the number of antidepressant users.
4. France has 12 time zones (if you include overseas territories), which is more than any other country in the world.
5. France has the most Nobel Prize laureates in literature (15), followed by the United States (13 laureates) and (10).
6. The French army is the only one in Europe that still has carrier pigeons. They are kept in reserve in case of any disaster.
7. France ranks first in the world in the number of nuclear weapons per capita. It is followed by Japan and.
8. France is the first country where the system appeared public transport. In 1660, carriages began to travel to certain time along 5 routes connecting various quarters of Paris. This system was invented by scientist Blaise Pascal.
9. Before World War II, France shared time with London. During the occupation, clocks were set to Berlin time, and this time zone has remained in place ever since.
10. One of the French communes is called Y, and its inhabitants are called Ypsilonians.

1. In France there are six communes where there is not a single resident, but there are mayors. These communes were destroyed during the First World War, and mayors are appointed to maintain order within them.
2. The festive cuisine of France with all the rituals and traditions of serving dishes is included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.
3. France has very strange laws. For example, it is forbidden to call a pig Napoleon. Kissing on train tracks is also prohibited. And the law prohibiting women from wearing trousers was repealed only in 2012. In the city of Chateauneuf-du-Pape in Provence, the law prohibits flying saucers from landing within the city limits.
4. About 400 varieties of cheese are produced in France!
5. The oldest bridge in Paris is called the New Bridge (Le Pont Neuf).
6. Contrary to popular belief, the most popular tourist attraction in the French capital is not the famous Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, but Disneyland Paris.
7. In France, you can officially marry a deceased person, and then the newly-made spouse immediately becomes a widower. The permission for such a marriage is signed personally by the president of the country.
8. The croissant, without which it is impossible to imagine a French breakfast, is in fact not a French dish at all. Croissants came to France from Austria.
9. Until 1964, French women could not open a bank account or obtain a passport without their husband's permission.
10. The famous French dish foie gras originated in Egypt about 4,500 years ago, then came to Ancient Greece, and finally came to France with the Romans.
11. Nicotine got its name from the French ambassador Jean Nicot, who brought tobacco from Portugal in 1559.
12. There are 40,000 castles and palaces in France, and the Louvre is the most big palace in the world.

1. France ranks second in the world after the United States in the number of Olympic Games it has hosted (5 summer and 3 winter).
2. Every day two cookbooks are published in France.
3. When they meet, the French exchange kisses, and their number depends on the region (one in Brittany, four in the north, five in Corsica).
4. French fast trains TGVs are considered the fastest trains in the world with an average speed of 263 km per hour.
5. The average Frenchman eats about five thousand snails a year.
6. France has more intersections than any other country in the world (about 30,000).
7. French merchants are not required to give change to customers, so it is in the buyer's best interest to find the exact amount.
8. The perfume capital of the world is located in the French city of Grasse. It is there that perfumers are trained, and it is where the famous Chanel No. 5 was born.
9. Built in 1889, the Eiffel Tower remained the tallest structure erected by man for 40 years. It reaches 342 meters in height and has 1665 steps.
10. French resorts are distinguished by their poetic names, and most are named precious stones: Emerald Coast, Alabaster Coast, Ruby Coast, Opal Coast, Pink Granite Coast. You can also visit Silver Coast, the coast of Love, and, of course, the famous Cote d'Azur.

1. French women have the longest lives in the European Union, and French men are in third place on this list.
2. Inventions made in France include the adding machine, balloon, airship, parachute, submarine, ambulance service, photography, cinema.
3. This country is a world leader in the production of fashion accessories, cosmetics and perfume.
4. At the French cafe Petite Syrah in Nice, the price of coffee depends on the politeness of the visitor. If you forget to say hello and “you're welcome,” you'll have to pay several times more.
5. Beauty contests for children are banned in France.
6. McDonald's earns the largest revenue in France after the United States. There are about 1,000 restaurants throughout the country.
7. In 2011, after a small concert at the Montparnasse station, a piano was left behind, which was supposed to be picked up in a few days. The passengers thought it was for entertainment and began to play on it. The management of the railway company liked this idea, and pianos began to appear at other stations.
8. In France, the guillotine was used until 1981, when a law abolishing the death penalty was passed.
9. In 2016, supermarkets were banned from throwing away unsold food. Now they are obliged to donate them to charities.
10. In the 18th century, potatoes in France were considered a carrier of the plague and were banned for 24 years!

France - amazing country, which attracts millions of tourists every year. There is a lot to see here - from unique natural resources to incredible architectural monuments. However, to get to know this diverse country even better, it is best to visit it and see everything with your own eyes!

France is not only Paris, the most romantic capital in the world. It's also endless lavender fields, and ancient history, and thousands of cultural monuments, and a charming language. In this country, everyone can find something that will make him fall in love with it once and for all.

1. In France, there are certain limits for radio and television, which are allocated to foreign films, music, etc. They cannot be exceeded - the bulk of it all must be French.
2. 90% of the French drive only “domestic” cars - Renault, Peugeot and Citroen. A similar situation is observed in the Czech Republic, where almost everyone drives Czech Skodas (see).
3. On Sundays all shops in France are closed.
4. A bottle of inexpensive but good wine in France costs less than a cup of coffee in a cafe.
5. The most visited museum not only in France, but throughout the world is the Louvre, located in Paris, which was once the residence of French kings.
6. Almost everywhere in France you can safely drink tap water.
7. In Russia, higher education is considered more prestigious if it is obtained at a state university rather than at a private, commercial one, but in France it is the other way around.
8. France ranks first among all European countries for the production of agricultural products (see).
9. Agricultural lands occupy 4/5 of the entire French territory.
10. Red wine in this country is more popular than white.
11. France imports a lot of frogs, ranking first in the world in this regard.
12. License plates for cars first appeared in this country.
13. French law prohibits giving a pig the name "Napoleon."
14. The oldest bridge in Paris is called the Pont Neuf.
15. France owns many overseas territories in Pacific Ocean, Polynesia and even South America.
16. Parisian police officers sometimes ride on roller skates.
17. The first metro in France appeared at the end of the 19th century in Paris.
18. France is one of the most expensive countries in the world. The price here is higher than, for example, in Germany, approximately twice (see).
19. The French national anthem, La Marseillaise, was used for some time as an anthem in Russia after the 1917 revolution.
20. In France, the authorities pay an allowance for the maintenance of dogs.
21. France ranks second in the world (after the United States) in nuclear energy production.
22. The law prohibiting Parisian women from wearing pants was only officially repealed in 2012.
23. African countries have a larger French-speaking population than France itself (see).
24. France is the most visited country by tourists in the world.
25. During the Age of Discovery, France controlled almost 10% of the earth's landmass.
26. The French are considered the most depressed people on earth, according to statistics.
27. Lunch break for the most part French companies lasts not half an hour or an hour, but two.
28. As in Spain, being late in France is not considered something indecent (see).
29. Income tax in France is one of the highest in the world.
30. French law allows you to marry a person who has already died. True, this requires permission from the president of the country.

A former fortress, once a palace, and now a museum - the Louvre in Paris has experienced all these transformations in its lifetime, becoming the most visited museum, where millions of people from all over the world come every year. The most distant past and present are intertwined here into a single whole in hundreds of thousands of exhibits, of which only 35 thousand we can see with our own eyes. The thing is that there is not enough exhibition space to display all these values, while many exhibits also require special conditions storage

The history of this popular landmark in France dates back to the 12th century, when King Philip Augustus ordered the construction of a defensive fortress. From century to century, with the accession of new monarchs to the throne, this structure underwent numerous changes. For example, in the 16th century, King Francis I decided to make the Louvre his residence, ordering the construction of a palace and decorating it in the spirit of the Renaissance, and by the end of this century, under King Henry IV, they expanded the courtyard and also connected the Louvre and Tuileries palaces. Later, for almost a century, the Louvre was abandoned and fell into disrepair. During the French Revolution of 1789, due to the change of power, the National Assembly decided that the Louvre should become a national museum.

And only at the beginning of the 19th century did the Louvre itself breathe new life into Napoleon, who ordered the resumption of construction work. He made the first significant contribution to the replenishment of the museum’s collection, demanding from each conquered nation a kind of ransom in the form of numerous works of art.

3. Palace of Versailles (Paris)

When wondering what to see in France, without hesitation, go to one of the most respectable cities, located 20 km from the capital. After all, here is a luxurious and relatively young palace and park complex, which once served as the residence of French kings, and today has also become a famous landmark of France . This is the Palace of Versailles - an outstanding masterpiece in the history of world architecture. The layout of the park of the Palace of Versailles also represents the highest achievement in French park art.

Magnificent compositions of gardens and alleys, exquisite greenhouses full of diverse vegetation, picturesque fountains of the Palace of Versailles - all this became a real standard in European architecture in the 18th century.

The palace itself, also called the House of the French Kings, is the main building, which can be entered through the gilded Royal Gate. The first floor of the palace was intended for royal subjects, and the second floor was inhabited by the royal family themselves. The throne room was used for balls and performances, and Mirror gallery became the venue for the most magnificent and luxurious events of the royal court.

In addition to the palace itself, you can visit a lot of remarkable places in the park:

• opposite the palace is located Armory Square, from which there are three alleys, separated by two stables, which housed up to 2,500 horses;
• Just outside the palace fence is the first courtyard, in which there is a monument to Louis XIV. Next comes the second courtyard, through which the royal carriages entered. And from the third courtyard there is access to a beautiful park;
• The Versailles gardens deserve special attention - their area is about 100 hectares. Numerous ponds, pools, grottoes, fountains, sculptures here miraculously united into a single excellent composition, representing an amazing fusion of nature and art.

4. Cote d'Azur or French Riviera

And a separate category of guests goes to France to soak up the sea ​​beach, enjoy the magnificent views of nature, that is, relax in the full sense of the word. But they also have something to visit in France . French Riviera or Cote d'Azur - perfect place for these purposes. This resort area famous throughout the world for its beaches, clear azure sea, high-class hotels, restaurants and a variety of entertainment.

The Cote d'Azur is not just a favorite tourist attraction in France and a place have a great holiday, but also a land of amazing contrasts. For example, the warm, sunny beaches here contrast with the snow-capped Maritime Alps, located just 2 hours away from the coast. This resort area is also a very noisy place where millions of tourists come, but in the small villages located near the cliffs, silence and serenity reign.

The climate of the Cote d'Azur is very mild. There is neither scorching heat nor frosty cold here. Vacationers are provided with a lot of entertainment for every taste. Gambling enthusiasts can visit the local casino, horse lovers will definitely visit the hippodrome, where horse racing is regularly held, and for vacationers with children there is a large selection of amusement parks, water parks, and zoos. In a word, real freedom for everyone.

5. Dune Pyla (Arcachon Bay)

In the area of ​​the town of Arcachon, on the shores of the Arcachon Bay, there is a “living” natural landmark of France - the Pyla Dune. The tallest dune in Europe is a huge sand mountain that is constantly moving and slowly growing in height. So, for example. Back in 1855, the height of the dune was recorded as 35 meters, and today its height already reaches 130 meters! Plus, according to research, this mountain of sand also moves towards the shore by about 5 meters per year. The process of formation of the sand mountain began about 8 thousand years ago and continues unceasingly to this day, this is facilitated by constant winds, sea ebbs and flows.

Today, Dune Pyla has become a popular tourist attraction, so the corresponding infrastructure is located around the mountain. Not far from the mountain, right among the pine trees, there is a car park, there are also souvenir shops, a cafe where you can taste oysters or mussels, and even a hotel. And it leads to the top of the mountain long staircase- however, those who wish can easily conquer the mountain on their own.

Be sure to watch this beautiful video about France!

6. Chamonix Mont Blanc (Alps, Mont Blanc)

Chamonix Mont Blanc is a valley in the Alps that has become an iconic place for skiing. Oldest ski resort, whose history goes back more than 200 years, has become the most important attraction in France for lovers alpine skiing. After all, here you can not only enjoy the unique views of the mountain panorama, but also have a great, and to a certain extent even extreme, time.

The history of the valley began in 1741, when two Englishmen went here on an expedition, and shared their impressions of the trip in periodical publications. Since then, a widespread fascination with the Chamonix Valley began throughout Europe.

The resort is located at an altitude of 1035 meters, but almost all ski slopes are located at an altitude above 2 thousand meters, and the highest point, from where the most difficult routes follow, is 3842 meters above sea level.

Over the many years of the existence of Chamonix Mont-Blanc, an extensive, very diverse infrastructure has been organized here. The entire valley, 16 kilometers long and covering an area of ​​3,000 hectares, has prepared slopes along which 69 ski slopes, divided by degree of difficulty into several separate areas. To visit the valley there is a train and free buses.

7. Fontainebleau Palace (50 km from Paris)

When wondering what to see in France, one cannot help but include the Fontainebleau Palace - one of the largest and most beautiful royal palaces in the country - in the list of architectural monuments. It is located 50 km southeast of the capital, among a vast forest. The structure includes both graceful turrets and squat buildings, so the residence is often compared to wine glasses of different shapes and heights.

The name of the palace itself translates as “beautiful fountain” and comes from the name of the spring from which Napoleon Bonaparte himself once drew strength by drinking a glass of the purest spring water in the morning.

The history of the palace began at the beginning of the 12th century, when King Louis VII decided to build his residence in these picturesque areas. Initially, the current palace was more reminiscent of a medieval fortress, which was typical for that era. And only in the 16th century, under the reign of King Francis I, the fortress took on the appearance of a real palace. The most famous Italian masters are involved in the construction, who decorate the palace in the mannerist style. Under King Henry II's heir, the interior and exterior decoration of the palace continues to be brought to perfection. The ballroom is decorated with elaborate monograms, and the large hall, which is also called the gallery, is decorated with amazingly beautiful frescoes. The sunlight penetrating through the large window openings of the hall seems to fill it with gold.

8. Old town of Carcassonne (Languedoc - Roussillon region)

In French province Languedoc is home to a unique landmark of France - the fortified city of Carcassonne. This ancient city attracts thousands of tourists with its impressive size and rich history. This is a real medieval city, perfectly preserved to this day.

As a fortified point, Carcassonne existed in ancient times - it was erected in the 2nd century BC, when there were Gaul settlements on this site. Later, power over it passed to the Romans, Visigoths, Saracens, Saracens, and Franks. In 1355, by order of the Prince of Wales, known as Edward the Black Prince, one of the city's districts, Bastide, was burned. But already in 1359 the city was rebuilt again, and the appearance of that fortress has been preserved to this day.

Carcassonne gained world fame only in the 19th century, when it was restored by the chief architect Violet de Duc, on the orders of Napoleon III.

The whole city is divided into 2 parts: old and new city. So, upon arrival at railway station, you find yourself in a new city. Here you can find an information kiosk where you can purchase a city map and ask any questions regarding visiting the attraction.

9. Disneyland Paris (35 km from Paris)

Traveling with children will not have to think about what to visit in France with the whole family, because both children and their parents dream of getting into a real Parisian fairy tale called Disneyland. This gigantic entertainment complex, which has gained worldwide fame, includes parks, hotels, fairy-tale “countries” and entire residential areas. In terms of attendance, Disneyland surpasses all tourist sites in the countries of the Old World.

The total area of ​​the grandiose fairy-tale complex is 1,943 hectares, and more than 12.5 million visitors relax and have fun on its territory every year.

The territory of the Disneyland complex includes 2 theme parks - a classic one, which has existed since its opening, and a park dedicated to the history and process of creating famous Disney cartoons.

The entire park, which includes 49 attractions, is divided into 5 fabulous “countries”:

• Main Street is the main street of the complex, designed like American streets of the early 20th century;
• Frontierland - theme park, which reproduces the atmosphere of the Wild West, as it is represented in famous Westerns;
• Adventureland is an exotic part of the complex, where the oriental flavor, the atmosphere of adventurism of Indiana Jones stories, and the spirit of adventure on desert island with Robinson Crusoe;
• Fantasyland is a vibrant fantasy land for the youngest visitors, based on the most famous and beloved Disney cartoons;
• Discoveryland is an adventure world based on the works of famous science fiction writers of the 20th century.

10. Amphitheater in Nimes

On the border of Provence, 35 kilometers north of the coast, at the foot of the Garrigues plateau, in the city of Nimes is located the Amphitheater - one of the surviving historical monuments Roman era. In ancient times, on the site of Nîmes there was a settlement of Gallic tribes, which were later conquered by the Romans. Emperor Augustine founded the city of Nîmes here, which became the largest in southern France.

The amphitheater, erected in Nîmes at the end of the 1st century AD, has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in France. The amphitheater has the shape of an ellipse. Its dimensions are 131 m by 101 m, and the height of the walls reaches 20 meters. The dimensions of the arena itself are 69 m by 38 m. Surprisingly, even at that time, communications were connected to the structure: sewerage and water supply. And for greater convenience, an awning was stretched over the arena.

In ancient times, when Nimes had its own gladiator school, the Amphitheater often became the venue for brutal competitions, during which gladiators fought not only with each other, but also with dangerous animals.

At the beginning of the 5th century, brutal combat was prohibited. The amphitheater, after some time, began to serve as a fortress. The arches were partially filled with stone, and the arena was surrounded by a moat. Only by the 18th century did the Amphitheater begin to return to its original appearance. In the 19th century it began to serve as a bullfight, and in the 20th century it became favorite place for rock music performers. And if initially this colossal structure could accommodate up to 24 thousand spectators, now the number of spectators has decreased by about 3 times.

Sights of France: what else to visit while in France

Many stunning places that tourists will be delighted with are located in small towns across the country. Very popular for the variety of castles built many centuries ago. There is something to see for connoisseurs of natural beauty, as well as for those who are interested in French literature or want to feel the greatness of the monarchy.

11. Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel (northern France, border with Brittany)

The city of Mont Saint-Michel, founded in 709, is located on an island surrounded by the sea and a fortress wall. This is one of the most common tourist attractions in France. Every year the famous island-fortress attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the planet. In 1979, the abbey was included in the UNESCO heritage list.

In addition to its favorable location and very interesting ancient architecture, Mont Saint-Michel is known for the strongest tides in Europe, which occur every 24 hours and 50 minutes. Thus, water can flow 18 kilometers from the coast of the island, and also spread as much as 20 kilometers into the interior of the island. The tide height can reach 14 meters.

The history of this attraction dates back to 709, when a small chapel was erected on the island and an abbey was founded. In the 11th century, a Romanesque church and monastery were built on the mountain, and in the 12th century, a tower was built on the northern slope.

Since the 13th century, the abbey has suffered many losses. First due to the capture of Normandy by France, then in the 14th and 15th centuries there was an attack by the English army, and finally in the 18th century as a result of the revolution, when the territory of the abbey was turned into a prison.

With Napoleon III coming to power, the prison was abolished and the abbey regained its former glory. The monastery is restored, and it becomes a national treasure of the country. In the mid-20th century, monks returned to the island again. Today, in addition to the Benedictine monks, about 70 people live on the island, it even has its own police, hospital, city hall and hotel.

12. Chateau d'If (Marseille)

Being in Marseille and having 2-3 hours of free time at your disposal, you can rest assured that you have something to see in France . After all, 3.5 kilometers from the Old Port of Marseille, on a small island washed by sea ​​waters Mediterranean Sea, there is a place covered with real legends. This is the Chateau d'If, the phenomenon of its popularity lies in the famous stories of the famous writer Alexandre Dumas, whose characters were prisoners of this castle. While walking through dark interior spaces and narrow staircases, visiting cramped and gloomy cells, a feeling of fear, hopelessness and the inevitability of fate involuntarily arises. The spirit of anxiety and danger, the menacing and mysterious nature of the castle’s strong structures again and again attracts numerous visitors.

Of course, first of all, a visit to the castle is of interest to fans of Dumas’ works. For everyone who is familiar with his work, a visit to the island, which contains tragic, albeit fictional, stories of famous book characters being imprisoned, will bring truly strong impressions. The cells in which the Count of Monte Cristo, Abbot Faria, and the mysterious prisoner Iron Mask whiled away their imprisonment are marked with signs. There are also apartments in which real historical figures spent their time. Once you enter the narrow courtyard-well, along the perimeter you will see terraces with cells, near each of which there is a sign with the name of the prisoner and the dates of imprisonment. And going to the observation deck, you can admire beautiful views to Marseille and the Frioul Islands.

13. Saint-Tropez (70 km from Nice)

A small town in the south of France, Saint-Tropez, located on Cote d'Azur close to such prestigious holiday centers as Cannes and Nice, has become one of the most popular sea ​​resorts Europe and acquired the status of a landmark in France. The popularity of this fashionable town came back in the 19th century, thanks to the works of the artist Fields of Signac, glorifying the beauty of these places.

In a small area of ​​the town, a varied infrastructure is organized for vacationers.

lovers of wildlife can visit the butterfly museum, which displays about 4.5 thousand representatives of these beautiful insects of different species;

You can get into the spirit of these places and feel their flavor by visiting the Old Port - a very lively place, with a lot of chic shops, restaurants and expensive yachts left at the pier;

history buffs should see the ancient Suffren Castle, founded in the 10th century, located directly above the port;

For those who want to relax their body and soul, this seaside town has beautiful beaches - wild and private, equipped for activities different types sports

Saint-Tropez has also become famous for a series of magnificent French films shot here. Among the famous actors who starred in these films over the years were Brigitte Bardot, Louis de Funes, Romy Schneider and Alain Delon.

14. Champs Elysees (Paris)

Rue Champs-Elise, known to everyone as the Champs-Elysees, stretches 1.9 kilometers in length in the heart of Paris. A visit to this landmark of France has already become a must for guests of the capital, because no one will believe that you visited Paris and did not see the famous street with your own eyes.

The walking alley is divided into several squares:

Ambassadors' Square, which includes hotels for diplomats;

Elysee Square, where the residence of the French President is located;

Marigny - a square with a theater and philatelist market;

Ledoyen - a square in which the restaurant of the same name is located;

a large square including the Small and Great Palaces.

It is difficult to imagine that once in the 16th century there was a swamp on the site of the Champs Elysees, until Marie de Medici ordered the drainage of the territory and the creation of alleys, planting trees and strengthening the road.

In the 18th century the street was extended up to the hill now known as the square Charles de Gaulle, and its design resembled a picturesque forest with flowers, meadows and houses. It was then that the street acquired its current name.

By the beginning of the 19th century, the French government gave an order to the city authorities to improve the street; it was from this moment that large-scale construction began in these territories; the Arc de Triomphe was erected in honor of Napoleon's victory in the Battle of Austerlitz. And starting from the 20th century, the Champs Elysees became the venue for national holidays.

15. Notre Dame Cathedral (Paris)

Each country carefully preserves sights on its lands that become their calling card. Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the first places to visit in France on your excursion plan.

Over the centuries, the majestic Catholic church has witnessed wars, revolutions, destruction and restoration, but to this day it has retained the flavor of Gothic architecture intertwined with the Romanesque style. Religious building Every year millions of tourists from all over the world visit to see this recognizable Gothic silhouette with their own eyes. In addition, it is on the site of the cathedral that the so-called “Zero Kilometer” is located, from which all distances in the country are measured.

On the site where Notre-Dame de Paris is located, churches have been located since time immemorial - old ones were demolished, new ones were built. Finally, in 1163, the first stone of the future Notre Dame Cathedral was laid, and its construction lasted for two centuries - until 1345.

Thus, in 1177 the walls of the building were built, in 1182 the altar was installed, and the construction of the eastern part of the temple was completed. In 1200, construction began on the western facade, which is crowned by two high towers, and a spire was erected. Construction of the side chapels continued until the 14th century, and formal completion dates back to 1351. The cathedral existed in this form until the 18th century, when the French Revolution destroyed its centuries-old shrines. The revolutionaries did not spare the architecture of the cathedral - stained glass windows and expensive utensils were destroyed, and the temple itself was recognized as the center of the Cult of the Supreme Being. Later, the cathedral premises were used as a warehouse, and then were completely abandoned.

At the beginning of the 19th century, Napoleon returned the temple to its former glory - the architect Viollet-de-Duc, whom he hired, literally breathed new life into the cathedral. Since then, the building has remained untouched, with only minor cosmetic work periodically carried out to restore its façade.

16. Arc de Triomphe (Paris)

The most beautiful European city of Paris, surrounded by an aura of romance, contains all the most symbolic sights of France: the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral. Another of the most important symbols of the country is a majestic structure, erected by order of Napoleon and dedicated to military victories. This is a triumphal arch - an architectural monument of the 19th century in antique style, almost 50 meters high, the largest among monuments of its kind in the whole world. It is located in the very heart of Paris - its historical center, in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle. From here, 12 streets diverge like rays, and through the arch arches passes the so-called “Triumphal Way” - a series of historical buildings and monuments located on the same axis. Due to the location of the Arc de Triomphe on a hill, all the buildings of the historical center are perfectly visible from this place.

17. City of Annecy (eastern France)

At the foot of the snow-capped Alps, on the shores of the picturesque Lake Annecy, the resort town of the same name is comfortably located. Annecy is a place that seems far from fame and glory, but has gained unprecedented popularity among travelers all over the world. The city is shrouded in an atmosphere of romance, buried in flowers, its numerous canals weave through all the city streets. The most interesting part of Annecy is old town, where the tourist can see medieval houses, ancient churches and fairytale castles. One of the most visited castles is called the Palace on the Island - it is located right in the middle of the canal and seems as if it grew out of the water. There are other memorable places in the town - for example, the castle of the Counts of Geneva with the Museum of Modern Art, the Church of St. Peter, the Bishop's Palace, the churches of Saint Maurice, Saint Francois and the romantic Bridge of Lovers over the Vasse Canal.

18. Promenade des Anglais (Nice)

The Promenade des Anglais is a symbolic place in Nice in the form of a 6-kilometer street along the Mediterranean coast. It extends along the Bay of Angels, skirting its rounded curve. The embankment, like all its structures, was built in the 19th century with funds from the English colony, which is reflected in its name. The stream of tourists walking along the street and local residents does not dry out even at night, when the fairy lights come on here. Walking along the embankment, you can see the sights of France on the English Avenue - a number of old hotels, villas, as well as the Mediterranean Palace and the Massena Museum. In addition, the Promenade des Anglais is adjacent to such important cultural sites, such as the Opera House, the Chapel of Mercy, the Matisse Museum, the Valrose Palace, the Museum of Modern Art, and other historical and architectural monuments.

19. Claude Monet's garden in Giverny (Normandy region)

Claude Monet's garden is where the famous painter lived. In fact, the garden itself is a work of art, no less magnificent than the paintings of this artist. Here you won’t find flowerbeds lined in strict geometry - everything looks as if it is in nature, in natural conditions. Numerous paths lead to different parts of the garden, and at every turn a new one opens up. beautiful view. Monet lived in this place for 43 years, was inspired and wrote his famous works of art. For the first time he saw the picturesque region from the train window, passing by, and literally fell in love with this place. In the middle of the garden, surrounded by lush greenery and bright flowers, lies Monet's house, which has become a museum. This long and squat building with pink walls, green shutters and stairs has completely preserved the interior as it was during the artist’s lifetime.

20. Chateau de Chambord (Loire Valley)

Of course, France is, first of all, a country of castles, glorious feats of chivalry, numerous fairy tales and legends. Therefore, the medieval sights of France play a special role, among which the Chambord Castle occupies one of the first places - after the Louvre, it is the second most visited French palace. Why is he so famous? First of all, the fact that its architect was Leonardo da Vinci himself - he prepared the project for two years, until his death. The palace itself was conceived by King Francis I as a hunting residence - the surrounding lands occupied about 100 hectares of forests and fields, which provided excellent conditions for hunting. Impressive fabulous architecture buildings in the Renaissance style, and the most interesting elements of the castle, perhaps, can be called a unique double staircase designed by the famous architect, as well as an observation deck from where you can admire the picturesque surrounding lands.

21. Palais des Papes (Avignon)

Ancient Avignon has concentrated many medieval monuments, many of which are associated with the era when the city became the capital of Western Christendom. One of these objects is the powerful papal palace, which is simply impossible not to notice once you are here. A huge Gothic palace, the largest of its kind in all of Europe, stands proudly above the city buildings. This famous place at one time served as the residence of the popes - the residence was once moved here from Rome due to a conflict between the Catholic Church and the Roman monarchs. Later, the Roman priests moved back to Rome, leaving the city with a unique landmark. The impressive area of ​​the palace occupies 15 thousand square meters. meters, and today a number of special events are held here - concerts, exhibitions, as well as the famous Avignon Festival.

22. Chenonceau Castle (Chenonceau village)

In the Loire River valley, where the aristocratic life of France was concentrated for many centuries, memorable architectural masterpieces were erected, and one of them is the Chenonceau Castle. The palace in a luxurious Renaissance style rises above the waters of the Cher River, impressing with its romance and grace, thanks to which this magnificent creation is also called the “Ladies' Castle” or “Hovering over the Water”. Today Chenonceau has been completely restored; inside you can see what the chambers of French queens looked like, see antique furniture, rare paintings and tapestries. In addition to the castle itself, visitors are impressed by the wonderful landscape design of the surrounding areas. There are two gardens here, created by Diana de Poitiers, the favorite of King Henry II, and his wife Catherine de Medici. In one of the premises of the palace there is a museum where wax figures of the most famous owners of this estate are presented.

23. Wine Museum (Bon)

In addition to architectural monuments, it is worth paying attention to objects that form the overall portrait of the country and its inhabitants - these are the cultural attractions of France. In this case, the presentation will not be complete without the Museum of Burgundy Wines in Beaune. It should be noted that Beaune is one of the major wine-growing regions of Burgundy - it is surrounded on all sides by fertile vineyards. In fact, the museum itself is a palace that was once the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy. But this castle is famous not so much for its architecture as for what is located within its walls. The wine museum presents the history of the development of winemaking in this region of France, reveals the technology of wine production and the culture of its consumption, demonstrates the tools of winegrowers and winemaking equipment, including a huge press for extracting juice. Museum guests will see exhibitions dedicated to wine packaging and works of art related to the theme of winemaking.

24. Pont du Gard Aqueduct (Nîmes)

Not far from the French city of Nîmes there is an unusual architectural monument - the Pont du Gard, the highest surviving ancient Roman aqueduct. It was built about 2 thousand years ago, during the period of the rule of the Roman Empire in France. The gigantic structure crosses the Gardon River gorge and has three tiers with a total height of 49 meters, while the length of the aqueduct reaches 275 meters. One can only admire how high the skill of the ancient Romans was, but it is known that the main blocks weighing 6 tons were laid in masonry without the use of any mortar - using a method called “opus quadratum”. This bridge was once part of a water pipeline used to deliver water to the city of Nîmes. Over time, they stopped cleaning the aqueduct, it became clogged and stopped performing its functions, but until the 18th century it still served as a pedestrian bridge.

25. Verdon Gorge (Provence)

France is full of wonders, both man-made and natural. Covering the sights of France briefly, it is impossible to mention only the first, leaving the second without attention. One of the most spectacular natural places is in historical region Provence. This is the Verdon Gorge, the depth of which reaches 700 meters, and one of its most impressive parts is located between two local villages - this is the so-called Grand Canyon of Provence. This place offers the most stunning views: the whiteness of the cliffs, the azure of the Verdon River and vegetation create a panorama of incredible beauty. For lovers active recreation There is plenty of places to go for a walk in the surrounding area - there are a number of walking routes, it is suggested to master a canoe, kayak, or ride part of the way on horseback. History buffs will also find something interesting in Verdon - for example, the natural prehistoric museum of the Grotto de la Baume Bonne.

In the south of France there is a country famous for bullfighting, Flamengo dancing, Puella, as well as beautiful beaches - Spain. While in France, think about visiting this country. Read about and be inspired for your further journey through European countries!

France is one of the most visited countries in the world by tourists, with developed infrastructure and excellent recreational opportunities. The main attractions are natural beauty, gastronomic delights, architectural monuments and museum collections containing a huge number of world masterpieces.

Paris is the most romantic city in the world. Its beauty will always stand apart; tourists try to visit the capital first. Newlyweds dream of spending time here honeymoon, couples with children - show the kids the wonderful world of Disneyland Paris. The second point on the travel program is palaces and castles scattered throughout the country or the natural beauty of Provence and Normandy.

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What to see and where to go in France?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

The main symbol of Paris and all of France. Named after the creator's surname. It was erected in 1899 to be used as an entrance arch to the World's Fair. Subsequently, the structure was planned to be dismantled, but the attraction took root. The main material is steel, the height is 324 meters. Anyone can visit the tower. In the evenings, the lights are turned on, and the colors can change for significant events.

Napoleon personally gave the order for its construction: this is how the emperor intended to perpetuate the victories of his “Grand Army”. The creation of the arch was completed in 1836. Currently, the square where it is installed is named after Charles de Gaulle. The height of the monument is 50 meters. The design is replete with small details. After the First World War, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame appeared under the arches.

In the past, the museum building served as a Parisian train station. At first the station was closed and the premises were mothballed, later reconstruction took place. One of the world's most impressive collections of fine art became available for viewing in 1986. The exhibits are distributed across levels and halls taking into account style and chronology. The collections are dominated by impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

The most popular museum in the world opened its doors to visitors in 1793. Its glass pyramid is one of the symbols of the French capital. The number of visitors in 2018 exceeded 10 million people, which became a record. The Louvre collection includes paintings, jewelry, sculptures and figurines, frescoes and furniture. The number of masterpieces in the collection is countless; one of the main exhibits is “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci.

Chance-Elise is the central street of Paris, one of the most beautiful, green and famous in the city. It stretches through the central part of the French capital for almost 2 km. The Champs Elysees is traditionally divided into two parts: the shopping part, with boutiques, offices, banks, and the park part. The walking park is divided into squares by alleys, each of them has its own “specialization”. For example, in Marigny there is a philatelist market and a theater, and in the Elysée Square is the residence of the president.

Another name is French Riviera, section Mediterranean coast from the city of Toulon to the border with Italy. One of best places in the world for relaxation. Local cuisine is a feast for gourmets. The Côte d'Azur offers special dishes and wines, some of which are found only here. The disadvantages include high prices for vacation and real estate.

An amusement park in the Parisian suburb of Marne-la-Vallée, operating since 1992. The park is owned by the American company Walt Disney. This is a magical world for children, where all the famous characters from Disney cartoons live, the scenery from their favorite fairy tales is recreated, and there are countless attractions that delight adults. The park contains residential and business areas, hotels and golf courses.

The symbol of the city and its main attraction. Architectural ensemble consists of two long buildings built in the Baroque style and adjacent buildings. Among them are the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Customs Museum. The pediments are decorated with sculptures. The square was created in the first half of the 18th century according to the design of Ange-Jacques Gabriel, the royal architect and founder of classicism.

The chapel was built on the Ile de la Cité in Paris. Although the building belongs to the Gothic style, it is “airy” and “light”. It's all about the stained glass windows, shimmering in the sun and rising almost to the entire height of the walls. They depict numerous symbols. To understand them, you need to use the television screen installed in the Sainte-Chapelle. Painted columns support the vaults of the upper chapel.

The Gothic Catholic church, glorified in Hugo’s work, is another symbol of Paris and France. Its construction lasted for centuries. The first stone was laid by Pope Alexander III in 1163. In 2019, during reconstruction, a severe fire occurred in the building. The fire destroyed some rarities and unique decoration elements. Reconstruction will cost approximately a billion euros and take years.

The name translated is “Basilica of the Sacred Heart”. Construction period: from 1875 to 1914. The white stone church is somewhat different from other Catholic buildings in Paris; at one time its appearance caused discontent among the townspeople. Located at the top of Montmartre, the most high point cities. The Savoyard, the largest bell in the French capital, is installed on the Sacré-Coeur bell tower.

The main historical attraction of Marseille. Erected in the mid-19th century on the site of an old chapel. The place is iconic: pilgrims have been received here for centuries and travelers have been blessed. The lead architect of the project is Henri-Jacques Esperandieu. The bell tower is crowned with a 9-meter sculpture of the Mother of God. The bell weighs more than 8 tons. Frescoes and mosaics are typical decorations for interiors of that time.

Erected from 1872 to 1884 on the top of Fourvière Hill. The lands around Lyon have repeatedly faced adversity: from plague to enemy armies under the city walls. Each time, the residents prayed to the Virgin Mary, and the Mother of God, in their opinion, warded off trouble. They worked on the construction for more than 10 years, and the interior decoration was completed only in 1964. The basilica is richly decorated: stained glass windows, paintings, mosaics and statues.

The translation of the name is “Mount of St. Michael.” The construction dates back to the 11th century. This fortified abbey stands on the island of the same name. The castle itself rises in the central part, and along its perimeter there are dense buildings, wild shrubs and trees. The walls are strong and more like a fort. Depending on the season, the area around may be completely covered with water. Sometimes even the road leading to Mont Saint-Michel is flooded.

A royal residence built on the outskirts of the French capital in the second half of the 17th century. This attraction was among the first to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The halls of the palace are kept in exemplary condition. The decoration and furniture correspond to past eras. Tourists are no less interested in the castle in the extensive park complex. There are about 1,400 fountains on its territory.

The entire Loire River valley is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Traveling here, tourists get to know a number of cities, including Orleans, Nantes and Angers. In them and their surroundings, majestic castles were erected, created for royalty and noble people of France who wanted to escape from the bustle of Paris. Thus, the castles of Chambord, Cheverny, and Chateau de Chenonceau were built against the backdrop of endless meadows and forests.

Located 60 km from Paris in the Seine-et-Marne department, surrounded by a huge park. Since 1981 it has been under the protection of UNESCO. The history of the palace began in the 12th century, but only 5 centuries later it acquired its current sophisticated and majestic features. In the architecture you can see elements of the medieval style, classics and renaissance. Four French monarchs were born in the palace.

Among historical attractions, the medieval fortress city has for many years held the second place in France in terms of attendance. Impressive thick walls surround not only the castle, but also numerous buildings inside the fortress itself. Behind the towers are hidden narrow streets and small houses that are still used for their intended purpose.

Another French site included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The complex consists of two palaces. The first - also known as the Old - was erected by order of Benedict XII and is more ascetic. The second - New - was built in the Gothic style for Clement VI and has extravagant features. Strong outer walls were supposed to withstand a siege. They have loopholes and gateways for attacking attackers.

Not as advertised as the Colosseum, but not much inferior to it in historical significance. Built by the Romans in the 1st century. Even then, sewerage and water supply were connected to it. Used for gladiator fights. Subsequently it became a fortress, which also affected the appearance of the structure. The original appearance of the amphitheater was returned only in the 18th century. Nowadays, the arena hosts live concerts.

The tallest surviving ancient aqueduct. It was built by the Romans about 2 thousand years ago. The three-tiered arched structure crosses the Gardon River. The height is 49 meters and the length is 275 meters. The bridge was used as part of a water pipeline and helped supply water to nearby Nîmes. When there was no longer a need for it, the aqueduct was abandoned.

One of the most high bridges in the world. One of its supports reaches a level of 341 meters, which is higher than the Eiffel Tower. Millau is built across the Tarn River valley near the town of the same name. The viaduct is part of the A75 highway connecting Paris with the city of Beziers. The authors of the project are architect Norman Foster and engineer Michel Virlogio. Despite the massive columns, their creation looks light, and with low clouds, as if floating in the air.

Romantic and picturesque quarter, listed world heritage UNESCO. Back in the 16th century, fishermen and leather craftsmen settled here, which is why an unpleasant smell took root in the streets. Nowadays, Petite France has become an elegant historical district with half-timbered houses, flower-filled balconies, quiet alleys and covered bridges over the Ile River.

Colmar is the most beautiful city Alsace. The old areas are well preserved. On your first visit, you feel like you are in the scenery of a fairy tale being filmed. Little Venice and the Fisherman's Quarter are the most interesting parts of the city. The microclimate of Colmar contributes to the development of winemaking. 5 museums are open, including the Unterlinden Museum. Almost every month of the year has a major festival.

The famous artist lived in this place for 43 years. Monet's house, turned into a museum, stands in the middle of the garden. The original interiors have been preserved, and personal belongings of the master have been added to them. The room is bright both inside and out. The same can be said about the garden. It looks like a lot of colors are moving chaotically. Arches of plants, partially overgrown paths, and a variety of flowers greet guests in Giverny most of the year.

It occupies 117 hectares and is located in Lyon. The territory began to be improved in the middle of the nineteenth century. Now there are stables, a velodrome, a zoo, a golf course and a train running around the area. Tourists ride on rented boats on the lake. You can get to one of the islands through a tunnel dug under the pond. Botanical Garden at Tête d'Or consists of an impressive collection of plants.

The tallest dune in Europe is growing in size every year. Currently its height exceeds 130 meters. The sand anomaly is located on the shore of the Arcachon Bay. Tourist infrastructure has been created around the mountain to make the climbs safer and more comfortable. Parking, souvenir shops, cafes serving fresh oysters, small hotels - everything is within walking distance.

Discovered in the commune of Montignac on the banks of the Vézère River in 1940. The cave became a real discovery in the field of archaeology. It is a key element in the study of the Paleolithic era. The quantity and quality of rock art surpasses all other sources. Lascaux has been called the “Sistine Chapel of primitive painting.” At the same time, the dimensions of the cave are relatively small: up to 30 meters in height and about 250 meters in length.

Tallest in Europe mountain range(excluding Elbrus). It is located on the border of France and Italy; a tunnel between the countries has been built under Mont Blanc. Many ski slopes of any complexity. There are also “wild” slopes that attract extreme sports enthusiasts. Conditions for mountaineering are well developed and hiking. There is a popular route around the mountain tourist route- "Tour du Mont Blanc".

One of the most beautiful alpine lakes. Located in Northern Savoie. In size in France it is second only to Lac du Bourget. The area is popular with tourists. Boat trips, pedal boat rentals, water entertainment are available, and there are attractions on the beaches. A valley approaches the lake from the south; on the other sides it is surrounded by mountain ranges.

An autonomous French territory occupying the island of the same name in the Mediterranean Sea. Representatives of many nations lived in these territories at different times, so a special language dialect appeared here. Natural beauty- the main wealth of the area. Bays and beaches, forests and mountains - everything has been explored far and wide by tourists, but they look as if untouched by man. The most famous Corsican is Napoleon Bonaparte.

One of the main tourist sites Provence. At the same time, it is the longest and deepest gorge in France. Located in the Alps, in the southeastern part of the country. The natural attraction is called the “French Grand Canyon”. In the surrounding area there are hiking routes for hiking enthusiasts, horseback riding is organized, and kayaks are rented for rafting.

Small picturesque bays, French “fjords”, which are located on the coast from Marseille to Lia Ciot and Cassis. National Park founded in 2012 and became the first protected area in Europe, which includes the periphery of cities, part of the sea and land. Small bays and islands have created a unique ecosystem. Therefore, many rare species of flora and fauna live here. Climbers have chosen the Calanque Mountains for training.

The name "Etretat" translates as "farm of the setting sun." Such a poetic name, coupled with the unusual appearance of the rocks, has always attracted travelers. Nobles rested here, and artists and writers drew inspiration. The rocks rise tens of meters, they are snow-white and have bizarre shapes, with many natural arches.

Main brand and business card region - endless purple rows of fragrant lavender stretching beyond the horizon. Favorite place artists and photographers, the number of tourist postcards can rival Eiffel Tower. The Valensole plateau is especially densely planted. Best time for the trip - the end of June: this is when the annual lavender festival begins.