1. The Eiffel Tower, Paris
The landmark which defines Paris and France together as its most famous icon , but which was scorned by the French themselves as a monstrosity par excellence. Today it is regarded as a modern wonder of the world, affording breathtaking views of Paris but be warned, it is not for those who suffer from vertigo.
Visitor tip: ascend the Eiffel Tower towards the end of the day, so you get to see Paris by day and by night.
2. Notre Dame, Paris
The Cathedral of Our Lady was made famous by Victor Hugo and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. “Do you think I’m ugly?” cries the anti-hero to Esmeralda, however there is nothing ugly about the cathedral or the setting on the banks of the Seine.
A beautiful piece of Gothic architecture which should not be missed.
3. The Louvre, Paris
The Louvre has to be the most famous of all art galleries, and it is home to more art and history than you can shake a baguette at. Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (La Giaconda) smiles her enigmatic smirk, but you will find more than 35,000 other pieces here, from antiquities through to modern art.
Bonus tip: spot the modern pyramid addition to the Louvre, which honors France’s fascination with Ancient Egypt (and used as a location for the Da Vinci Code).
4. Palace of Versailles, Versailles
Moving out of Paris and into the hinterland we find the Palace of Versailles, the home of France’s kings and queens until La Guillotine took off their heads. The Palace remains and it is a beautiful way to spend a day with the Hall of Mirrors, magnificent gardens and fountains and surrounded by a city which has some of the finest restaurants in the region (including Paris).
5. Lourdes, Haute-Pyrenees
Now we travel directly west, and eventually away from the coast and into the Pyrenees, the mountains which form the border between France and Spain. Probably the most famous town in France, from a religious perspective, this is the site of the appearance of The Virgin Mary to a miller’s daughter. A place of miracles, Lourdes has long been a destination for the sick and infirm seeking respite or a cure. It doesn’t hurt that it is placed in a magnificently beautiful setting.
6.The City of Lyon – The Capital of Gastronomy
Now we head back northeast, towards the center of the central eastern portion of the country. You may think that Paris would have the reputation for the best French cuisine; however Lyon is actually the chief place for training and practicing haute cuisine. There is no doubt that the very best in French cuisine originates from Lyon – do not stay too long if you want to maintain your figure!