Places to Visit in France

Every cliché ever uttered about Paris is true and that’s precisely why you should visit the French capital. Make sure you see all the tourist hotspots and by night fit in an ambience-absorbing walk along the Seine, with le Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower) gracefully twinkling in the background. Then, hit Rue de Lappe, in the heart of Bastille and enjoy its trendy offering of bars and clubs. As European cities go, Paris is one that absolutely should not be missed. Even if you’re not there for love, you’ll certainly get whisked along by the romantic breeze! More things to do in Paris

A visit to Normandy’s north-west coast wouldn’t be the same without a day at Mont St Michel – a tiny island just one kilometre off the French coast. Give your calf muscles a run for their money, as you wander around the steep, quaint town atop this island. Down south, find gorgeous beaches dotted along the French Riviera and an influx of French heading that way at the height of summer. Try Nice, St Tropez or Montpellier and feel like you’re living the high life! And don’t forget a day at the tiny municipality of Monaco – aka millionaires’ fairground!

The Alps are not only an adventurer’s dream in winter, but in summer Europe’s great mountain range becomes a playground of cool, outdoor activities, including paragliding, white water rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking. Biarritz, situated in the French Basque Country, is Europe’s surf capital. There you can catch yourself some decent waves, whilst checking out the gathering of attractive surfer dudes and board babes. If you find man-made adrenaline-pumping a thrill, then the rollercoasters and water rides, at French theme park, Parc Astérix will have you hanging onto your seat.

Check out a popular place with party revellers, Spartacus club in Aix-en-Provence and be treated to your favourite techno and house DJs. For a great choice of French and international restaurants visit the buzzing student town of Lyon with more restaurants per square metre, than possibly any other city. Prices are quite reasonable too. A trip to France isn’t complete without experiencing the origin of their most important produce: wine and champagne. Visit Épernay, 130 km by train from Paris and home to many world-renowned champagnes. Check out the local vineyards surrounding the town and get sloshed on a bubbly tasting tour.

Just a stone’s throw away from Paris is Versailles, a place where you’ll be rewarded by the exquisitely decorated Palace of Versailles. It was once home to the French monarchy until the start of the French Revolution. Also, be sure to use your InterRail France Pass to get you to a real French château and if the wow-factor is important, Château de Chambord, will certainly impress. Located in the Loire Valley, the French Renaissance architecture blends both French and Italian style. This is the kind of castle that fairytales are woven from.