Savvy Sightseer - tips and insights for seasoned travelers!
Rouen's cathedral, a classic example of Gothic architecture, stands in the same place where churches have been for over 1,000 years.
Map of France and its bordering countries
This magnificent display of wealth and power has been the backdrop for many historic events.
The American Cemetery in Normandy forever stands as a reminder that "we fought for a cause, and not for conquest."
France
North: Paris, Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley
South: Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and the Luberon Valley
Sumptuous châteaux, heroic battlefields, iconic structures, striking views – all are packed into France’s capital city and northwest region! Dazzling palaces and cathedrals provide something for all tastes: Versailles’ shimmering gold and its surprisingly humble hamlet retreat, the quietly elegant Chenonceau, and, of course, multiple cathedrals named Notre Dame! In the south, life slows down and time stretches back to the Roman era. Marvelous tree-lined streets, ancient UNESCO sites and markets to make mouths water!
France has many varied facets to its personality. Its over 2000-year history is rich and complex; with its fair share of shining and controversial times. Even a short visit to just a part of this country rewards the traveler with an abundance of history, beauty, flavor, tranquility, reflection and grandeur. It’s impossible not to come away with a deep appreciation of a resilient people and their land that has weathered revolutions and wars, natural and manmade disasters; and yet remains a cultural, fashion and cosmopolitan icon - one of Europe’s shining stars.
And the food! From entrée (appetizer) to dessert, dishes are prepared to perfection, and are as artistic as they are delicious!
Click any photo below to be taken to that region's page.
Paris
The country’s capital city, Paris, is synonymous with sophistication and romance. It’s crammed full of “must-see attractions,” buildings and places that are household terms familiar on some level to just about everyone. The Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, and Cathedral of Notre Dame are just a few of the many sights tourists flock to. Hardly a person doesn’t know about the Eiffel Tower, but these are just a small fraction of what the city has to offer. Beyond the famous structures are fascinating stories, snapshots of the people and culture that comprise Paris. Click on the picture of France’s Statue of Liberty and Eiffel Tower to visit the page on the capital region.
Normandy & Brittany
Branching out north and west of Paris is a very different France. Beautiful stretches of farmland are punctuated with ageless towns, each with its own unique history and character. Coastal regions inspire awe for the valor of people who left from them on adventures of discovery, and for those who landed at them in a quest to save humanity. Seaports and gardens delight today’s visitors as they have artists for hundreds of years. Click on Impressionist Claude Monet’s garden to travel to Northwest France!
The Loire Valley
Dubbed the “Garden of France,” the 170-mile stretch of lush countryside in the middle of France is a showcase of châteaux and manicured gardens. Tranquility oozes from the hundreds of beautifully designed country homes overlooking the Loire River. It should come as no surprise that artist, sculptor and all around Renaissance man Leonardo da Vinci opted to spend his last days in a castle here. Click on the picture of Château Chenonceau and enter the world of stately beauty and the lifestyle of a bygone era.
The Churches of France
Before the French Revolution, Catholicism was the leading religion in France; its clergy was a highly influential and extremely wealthy segment of French society. Although that came to a crashing halt with the overturn of France’s monarchy in the 18th century, remnants of Christian authority still abound in France. Thousands of abbeys, monasteries, churches, basilicas and cathedrals have survived. Many have seen multiple restorations over centuries and open their doors today for visitors to admire the sheer artistry of their colorful stained class windows, soaring arches and delicately detailed sculptures. Click on this south-side view of Notre Dame de Paris to walk down the aisles of these historic structures.
Provence, the South of France
History is everywhere here, from the 1st century Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard to the 14th century famed Palace of the Popes in Avignon. Beautiful scenery around every turn makes picking a favorite spot impossible. Compare the colorful ochre cliffs of Roussillon, panoramic views of the Luberon, little villages perched on hilltops, acres of lavender fields, charming markets and tree-lined streets of Aix-en-Provence and you will discover that ranking one over the other is an exercise in futility.
Continue your trip through France with a visit to the Paris, Normandy & Brittany, Loire Valley, France's Churches or Provence pages.
For a taste of France, try the popular Madeleines cookie recipe on the Recipes Tab.
To enjoy the France experience at its fullest, attend a Savvy Sightseer - Paris & NW France Travelogue at a library or community center near you! Check the Programs page for upcoming dates and locations.
