If you’ve been keen to visit France, a country filled with art, romance, and delicious food, look no further than this informative guide to France, its capital, Paris, and the world’s most famous museum, the Louvre.
About France
France is a country located in the northwestern part of Europe. Its official name is République Française, or French Republic. Long before it was France, it was named Gaul. France’s rich history includes the French Revolution, the Seven Year’s War, King Louis XIV, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Marie Antoinette.
Paris, the capital of France, is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This romantic city was named after its early settlers, the Parisii, a Gallic tribe from the Iron Age. It is also home to the Louvre, its famous museum.
About the Louvre Museum
The Louvre stands as a historical landmark in Paris, France. It holds some of the best-known works of art, such as the Mona Lisa. Paintings, drawings, sculptures, and jewelry representing European life up to the year 1848 are among the items that can be admired in this museum.
In 1190, the Louvre was built as a fortress. In the 16th century, it served as a royal palace. After many years of reconstruction phases, it became the structure you see today. Now that you’re equipped with the basics, it’s time to concentrate on the many factors that make France and the Louvre so alluring.
Landscape and Weather
With breathtaking landscapes, including plateaus, mountains, plains, lavender fields, rivers, and vibrantly lit cities, there are plenty of places to see and things to do in France. Its diverse landscape makes the country a must-visit destination no matter what season it is.
In most parts of France, you can enjoy mild summers and cool winters. Temperatures in winter average between 32° F (0° C) and 46° F (7.7° C). During the summer, you can enjoy averages between 61° F (16.1° C) and 75° F (24° C).
The Best Times to Visit
If you’re looking to avoid extremely large crowds, the recommended time to enjoy France is during April or May. Once June, July, and August come around, there are endless mobs of tourists, and wait times to get into attractions are extensively longer.
Autumn is a good option for those seeking slightly less interruption from the masses while still enjoying warmer weather. To evade a massive number of people, winter is going to be the best time to visit. Remember that temperatures are a lot cooler and you should dress accordingly.
Transportation
Of all the ways to get around while exploring France, driving is going to be the most convenient but the most expensive. The costs of driving include renting a vehicle, parking fees, gas, tolls, and dealing with high-traffic roads and highways.
If you’re up for it, France is known for excellent public transportation. Trains, buses, bicycles, and taxis are other options for traveling to and fro. Depending on your distance and destination, trains offer an easy-going way to see the country.
Buses are suitable for short distances and travel between nearby towns. They will also save you a lot of money compared to renting a vehicle, catching a cab, or taking a train.
Bicycles are very popular in Europe. They’re fairly reasonable to rent and a fun way to get around, especially if the weather is pleasant.
Where to Stay
Your choice of accommodation depends on personal preference, location, activities, and budget. The beauty of such a large country is that finding lodging tends to be easy and simple. As always, planning ahead of time is recommended.
For the high-country nature lover, camping, huts, cabins, and cottages are great options for exploring the outdoors. For those who want to be part of the city life, hotels are plenty in every city of France. If you visit during the off-peak season, you may find great deals on rooms, apartments, and B&Bs.
Some of the best cities to explore and stay in are Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Aix-en-Provence, Strasbourg, Dijon, Toulouse, Annecy, and Nantes. Each one offers plenty of attractions, wining and dining experiences, amazing sights, and shopping.
What to Do and See
Besides the Louvre Museum in Paris, things to consider adding to your itinerary are the following:
- Climbing the Eiffel Tower in Paris
- Visiting The Abbey at Mont Saint-Michael in Normandy
- Take photos of the Pont du Gard, an ancient aqueduct, in the town of Vers-Pont-du-Gard
- Tour a vineyard and taste local wines
- Visit the Palace of Versailles
- Kayak in the Gorges du Verdon in the Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of Southeastern France
- Go hiking in the Chamonix Valley, also in Southeastern France
- Admire the architecture of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes