St Tropez - holiday - Nice for the night

Other France tourist attractions include nearby Nice, a more down-to-earth version of a St Tropez holiday. Nice has plentiful beaches, more artistic culture, and a vibrant, youthful crowd. Also nearby is Cannes, famous for the yearly film festival. Cannes also attracts a posh crowd with its exclusive beaches, shopping boutiques, and sparkling climate. Of course, a review of France tourist attractions wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Paris. Paris has an abundance of monuments, more museums than one can see in a month, and diverse nightlife.

St Tropez is a fantastic destination to live it up, party like a rock star, and sun on the beach. If you’re worried about money, spend the day on a St Tropez holiday, then move on to Nice for the night, or avoid the hotel–party all night and sleep on a train out of town. Any way you stay, St Tropez is a fun, sun swept destination on the French Riviera.

Saint Tropez

Those on a St Tropez holiday will want to spend some time at a nightclub. Les Caves du Roy is in the swanky Hotel Byblos, where high society sips. Like most joints in St Tropez, drinks are expensive. Bodega de Papagayo is an Asian influenced bar and restaurant, populated by a young crowd. For more salt of the earth drinking, try Kelly’s Irish Pub, featuring Guinness, live music, and Irish lovers.

St Tropez holiday lodging is expensive, however, some reasonable deals are possible. A good value is Lou Cagnard, a traditional farmhouse surrounded by plants. Le Baron is a calm, quiet hotel overlooking the citadel. If you want to rub noses with the elite, stay at Le Yaca, which has great views of the bay, a pool, and peacocks roaming about.

St Tropez

Saint Tropez, a beautiful and famed destination on the French Rivera, is surrounded by endless white sandy beaches and a sunny climate. Saint Tropez is known as a playground for the rich and Hollywood elite. More modest travelers come to work on their tan, or unload money on expensive drinks in any of the abundant and stylish nightclubs. Celebrity watching is also popular. On the whole, Saint Tropez is hip, upscale, and expensive, but never-the-less, a fun city to kick back in.

Usually France vacations include some time on the beach, and Saint Tropez offers miles of sand. The Plage de Tahiti, 2.5 miles southeast of town, is the best in the area. If swimwear is making you feel restricted, head east to La Moutte, a naturiste beach, and shed your cloths. Many of the beaches near Saint Tropez are nudist beaches.

Most France vacations in Saint Tropez are about the glitz and glamour of dinning like A-list stars, and sunning on the brilliant beaches. While monuments are usually secondary, if you crave a break from the sun there are a few worth checking out. Musee de l’Annonciade, located in an abandoned chapel, houses a rich collection of modern art, including works by Signac, Bonnard, and Matisse. The Citadella de Saint Tropez offers some of the best views of the bay, and a few peacocks wandering the grounds. Inside, the citadel recounts the maritime history of the area, and the allied landings of 1944.

Paris - attractions - walking

Other Paris tourist attractions worth checking out are Cimetiere du Pere Lachaise and le Catacombes. The cemetery includes the remains of Chopin, Moliere, Gertrude Stein, Jim Morrison, and the much kissed tomb of Oscar Wilde. For a darker side of Paris, some Paris tours descend Le Catacombes, an underground corridor made up of the stacked bones of millions of Parisians exhumed from their graves to solve a hygiene problem in Paris France in the late 18th century.

For tours in Paris, try a walking tour, focusing on the history, monuments, and museums of Paris. Some are self guided, while others provide guides. The obvious advantage to self guided tours in Paris is that you can move at your own pace. There are several companies that offer this service including Paris Walking Tours, Classic Walks, and French Adventures. There’s also biking tours in Paris which peddle past famous monuments and icons of the city. One could book a tour through a travel agency, before leaving. With enough to see and do for weeks, the heart of France has delights for young and old.

Paris - France museums

Of course Paris France museums are not to be missed. Many Paris vacations start at the world famous Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa, and 35,000 other pieces of art. Connoisseurs could spend several days covering the Louvre. Paris France has an extinsive modern art collection at the Pompidou National Center of Art & Culture. The building was designed with the pipes and duct work on the outside, and the glass escalator running up exterior of the building is an exciting ride. The Musée d’Orsay, in a former railway station, displays French art nouveau, impressionist, and postimpressionist works. The Musée de Cluny, contains works from the middle ages, and a former Roman bath house, dating back to around 200 AD. Those are only a sprinkling of the quality museums visited during Paris vacations.

Paris

Paris France, the city of lights, is home to one of Europe’s most recognized monuments, perhaps the world’s most renowned museum, and a cultural smorgasbord of food, drink, nightlife, and sights. There’s plenty to see and do in Paris, and a walking, biking, or bus tour is a great way to see the city, as there are many options for Paris tours all over town. You can also conduct your own tour, and this guide to Paris will highlight the best architecture, museums, and sights.

Good Paris tours include plenty of monuments, famous museums, and world renowned dinning. The iconic Eiffel Tower tops out at over 1,000 feet, and contains 2 restaurants, a souvenir shop, a post office (for that one of a kind postmark), snack bar, and a viewing area, all within its iron structure. The Panthéon is a monument dedicated to historical personages of France, housing a crypt containing over 70 people, including Votaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Marie Curie, and Alexandre Dumas. A popular stop on many Paris tours is Notre Dame cathedral, with its awe inspiring exterior and ornate interior. Pay homage to French author Victor Hugo, and ascend the bell tower for a look at the gargoyles from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The Arc de Triomphe is a great stop on Paris vacations. Located on the famed avenue Champs Élysées and centered in the world largest traffic roundabout, the Arc is a simple, yet daunting monument commissioned by Napoleon. The gothic Saint Chapelle, built in the 13th century, has 15 impressive stained glass windows depicting an entire biblical history.

Nice - walkway - hotels

Nice vacations are an excellent opportunity to check out the dynamic pedestrian walkway that parallels the promenade des Anglais. The walkway runs along the sunny waterfront where walkers, joggers, and inline skaters traverse beneath palm trees. Near the promenade, don’t miss the Albert I Garden. A multitude of flowers and palm trees grow here. Also near the promenade is an Italian style theater, home to the Opera de Nice.

There are several hostels, mid-ranged hotels, and plusher, luxury accommodations in Nice. The glorious waterfront is lined with a nice selection of hotels, and more budget oriented accommodations are found inland. The Windsor is a stylish hotel with art centered rooms, and the Felix is a small hotel owned and serviced by a couple, with balconies over the rue Masséna. Nice France is blessed with sunny weather, charming French atmosphere, and plenty to see and do while on holiday.

Nice - beaches

While Nice France gets a lot of press for its beaches and celebrity vacationers, the old city harbors baroque churches, stylish buildings, and art museums. Our Nice city guide starts at the modern art museum, which houses a collection of art from 1950 onward. Four towers holding the collection rise skyward with rooftop gardens. Glass bridges connect the towers from the inside, and look impressive from the outside. Continuing the Nice city guide, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, housed in a 19th century villa, features an original plaster of Auguste Rodin’s Le Baise (The Kiss). Also, the Villa Arson shows cutting-edge conceptual art.

The Cathedrale Ste-Reparate, from the 17th century, has an 18th century bell tower, and a ceramic tile dome. Lascaris Palace was built in 1648, and features vaulted staircases, stone balustrade, coves filled with sculptures, and a wealth of paintings and furniture. Cours Salega is a famed street, with 18th century houses, plane trees, and a daily market. Last on the Nice city guide, the Chapelle de la Miséricorde is worth checking out for its half dome, cupolas, frescos, faux marble, and crystal chandeliers.

Nice

Nice France is a sparkling jewel on the French Riviera. Charming markets, narrow lanes, and all the enchantments of France, including art, food, and gorgeous architecture are present in Nice. Located along the Mediterranean Sea, Nice France features long promenades, pebbly beaches, and good weather. In town you’ll find picturesque buildings, art museums, and good hotels. Nice vacations were favored by aristocrats during the Victorian period. Today, Nice is a popular destination for a multitude of travelers, and offers a variety of things to do and see.

Nice Vacations are a sun drenched affair with white, pebbly beaches, and the sparkling blue waters of the French Rivera, known as the Cote d’Azur in France. Sunbathers rejoice, as Nice France is the place to lay back and soak. When bored of napping, people watching becomes a verified pastime, and there are plenty of buildings in town to explore.

Marseille - hotels

Marseille hotels include Mercure Beauvan Vieux Port, a top of the line hotel, recently redone. This Marseilles hotel overlooks the port, has old world charm, and modern comforts. Le Petit Nice is another exceptional Marseilles hotel. Located overlooking the sea, Le Petit Nice is a former villa, with simple rooms, beautiful views, and a fantastic restaurant. Located on the old port, like many Marseille hotels, Alizé is good lodging for an affordable price. The Hotel Saint Louis is a tall building, with an ornamental façade and modern rooms. The Montgrand, with recently remodeled rooms, is another Marseilles hotel located near the port.

Marseille - history

When in town check out the Musee de la Marine et de l’economie de Marseille for lessons on Marseille’s maritime history since the 17th century, and for hundreds of models of steamboats and schooners. The Musee de la Mode Marseille is all about fashion, showcasing exhibits dating back to the 1920s. On the waterfront of Marseille France is the Jardin des Vestiges (Garden of Remains), a recently uncovered section of Greek fortifications and loading docks. Le Panier is the center of old Marseille, with tall houses, cobblestone streets, and stone stairways. As mentioned, be sure to check out the guns at Fort St-Jean and Fort St-Nicolas in the old port.

Marseille France has a rich and turbulent history with the mother country, officially becoming part of France in the late 15th century. Today, Marseille is an important port of France, and undeniably French. With a diverse population, interesting museums, and striking monuments, Marseille is a fascinating city, well worth a look.

Marseille

Marseille, spelled Marseilles in English, has a lengthy history of being French, and not so French. A port city, Louis XIV built two forts on either side of the harbor. Suspicious of Marseille’s allegiances, the fort guns faced the city, rather than the water. Louis was right, as Marseille strongly supported the Revolution. Soldiers sang a song on the march to Paris that later became know as La Marseillaise. Today, it’s France’s national anthem. Marseille France also has a diverse ethnicity, and a lively African feel, most notable in the vibrant street markets. Trade grew in the 19th century due to Marseille’s proximity with North Africa, and today, Marseille is one of France’s most important ports. There are a lot of great places to stay while visiting, and Marseille hotels are charming and modern. On the whole, Marseille France has a lot to offer travelers.

Lyon - culturally affluent

France towns have a reputation for being culturally affluent and Lyons is no exception. Like Paris, with its museums, restaurants, monuments, and shopping, including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre museum, and Notre-Dame cathedral, Lyons France has a strong cultural heritage, dating back to Roman times.

As Lyons has a deeper history than anywhere else in France, it is one of the most historic, fascinating, and exciting towns to visit. There’s plenty to do, from exploring ornate churches and historic museums (check out the Lyon City Card, for unrestricted access to all museums for 1, 2, or 3 days), to eating some of the best food in Europe, or discovering the famous silk industry and Lyons’ Roman heritage.

Lyon - The Basilique de Notre-Dame

While on holiday in France, Lyon is a beautiful city to visit for its historic buildings. The Basilique de Notre-Dame, set on a hill with a striking white exterior, and a colorful, ornate interior with religious mosaics, can be seen through most of the city. It was built as a result of the Franco-Purssian war in the 19th century. The St. Jean Cathedral, started in the 12th century, has impressive columns and stained-glass windows, some of which were destroyed by the German occupation and have been replaced. A 14th century astronomical clock plays a hymn at noon, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm, while automatons enact the Annunciation. All in all, while on holiday in France, Lyon is a striking and culturally diverse city to visit.

Lyons France is located 287 miles southeast of Paris, on the west edge of the Alps. Marseilles, a fascinating and historic town in its own right, is to the south. The luscious towns of Cannes, St. Tropez, and Nice lie on the nearby French Rivera. Switzerland and Italy spread out to the east, making Lyons France a great hub for a European holiday.

Lyon

Lyon France is a historic metropolis with enough food and modern culture to satisfy every member of the family. Within striking distance of Switzerland, Italy, and the Alps, Lyon France is a cultural fest of restaurants, Renaissance buildings, and museums. The Romans made Lyon their second largest city behind their capital. Foreign merchants and bankers constructed mansions and pumped money into Lyon, and in the 18th century Lyon France became a prominent silk weaving center.

The Rhône river and the Saône river flow through Lyon France, creating a peninsula called Presqu’île, which is the modern center of Lyon. Restaurants, shops, museums, and the opera are highlights of this district. Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) was the heart of Renaissance culture, with cobblestone streets, 15th century mansions, and the famous traboules (pedestrian passageways) that run along the mansions, constructed to efficiently transport silk, the industry that influenced Lyon in the 18th century.

Cannes - festival

The best known festival de Cannes is the Cannes Film Festival, which takes over the city every May. Tickets to shows are via invite only, but feel free to star watch along the boulevards. There are many other Cannes events to check out. At any time of year visit the Allee des Etoiles (stars’ walk) where 300 stars have placed autographed imprints of their hands. Two of the best Cannes events occur in July, as Fireworks explode over the bay on the 4th for America’s independence day, and again on the 14th for France. Also in July is Les Nuits Musicales du Suquet, a festival of music performances.

Cannes France, famous for the Festival de Cannes, and the celebrity stars that frequent the boulevards, is an exciting and vibrant city on the French Riviera. Beaches, shopping, and museums keep you busy, making Cannes France a great destination during a France holiday.

Cannes - L’Eglise de la Castre

After tanning and celebrity stalking in Cannes France, head to L’Eglise de la Castre, an ancient castle formerly inhabited by the monks of Lerins. The 14th century Suquet Tower looms over the castle, providing excellent views. Inside is the Musee de la Castre, housing relics from the Pacific, Himalayas, and Americas. The Chapelle de Sainte-Anne, a 12th century chapel, displays musical instruments from all over the world.

For shopping in Cannes France, check out Boulevard de la Croisette, home to Doir, Chanel, and Cartier. Also walk down the Rue d’Antibes, and the Rue Meynadier, which houses Marche Forville, a street market with cheap knock offs.

Cannes

Cannes draws a crowd looking for a glimpse into the jet set lifestyle of a Hollywood star. Those seeking a day of shopping at exclusive boutiques, or wanting to sip margaritas at outdoor tables while people watching won’t be disappointed by the exclusive atmosphere of Cannes. There’s not much to see or do here, except tan on the beach, but unlike nearby St. Tropez, Cannes is a bit more accessible to the throng of tourists who flock to check out the lifestyle.

Most of Cannes beach areas are reserved for guests of the hotels that run along the beachfront on Boulevard de la Croisette. However, many of Cannes beach areas can be accessed by the public for a fee. If you’re saving your money for cocktails, there’s a public beach located near the Palais des Festivals. Also head to the west end of town for the Plages du Midi and the Plages de la Bocca, both public.

Yachts are an integral part of the lifestyle of Cannes, as many oversized boats can be seen moored in the harbor. A yacht charter is an excellent way to enjoy Cannes, and there are many outfits to choose from. It’s even plausible to sail to St. Tropez, Nice, or Monaco by yacht, and with miles of coastline to explore, why limit yourself to populated cities.

Bordeaux - the Musee d’Art Contemporain

While you’re in Bordeaux don’t miss out on the Musee d’Art Contemporain, housed in a converted, 19th century warehouse. The Musee des Chartrons is nearby, in the home of a former wine merchant, showcasing the history of the wine trade. The Musee d’Aquitaine details the history of Bordeaux. The Cathedrale St-André is a gothic cathedral with an exterior wall dating back to 1096. Climb the 164 foot belfry of Pey-Berland tower, for terrific views of Bordeaux.

The Bordeaux airport is located 6 miles west of the city, and offers regular flights to Bordeaux from around Europe. If you’re on the continent, check for flights to Bordeaux France on inexpensive Ryanair and Air France. Rent a car at the Bordeaux airport to tour wine country, or take a taxi into the city.

Bordeaux France offers many beautiful places to stay. Be wary of the area around the train station, as it has a reputation for being seedy. The top end hotel is the Hotel Burdigala, a modern, 4-star hotel. La Maison du Lierre is a restored townhouse with a picturesque staircase. The hotel de Seze is in an elegant 18th century building. The Hotel Excelsior offers inexpensive, simple rooms.

Bordeaux France has a nice selection of bars & nightclubs, including Les Argentiers, a jazz hangout; Connemara, an Irish bar; and L’Aztecal, a Latin style nightclub. The Living Room is a club dressed in home decor, with couches, TVs, and rugs. The Grand Theatre has plays and operas in French. On the whole, Bordeaux is an increasingly modern city, with beautiful countryside vineyards, historic value, shopping, and great wine.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, the largest city in southwest France, is famed throughout the world for its wine and countryside vineyards. While the city is not a model of modern urban planning, that is changing, as a tram and other modern fixtures are being developed. The surrounding country is some of the most beautiful in France, and travelers looking to see picturesque vineyards, and sample rich red wines will not be disappoint with a trip to Bordeaux wine country.

The city of Bordeaux maintains some 18th century grace among its downtown, where fine shops and museums await visitors. Bordeaux is going through an urban update scheduled to be completed by 2009. Until then, some buildings may be hidden by scaffolding, and roads may be crowded with construction detours.

Avoid the congestion by renting a car and driving to the vineyards north of the city to sample Bordeaux wines, and find out why Bordeaux wine is some of the best in the world. At the end of June Bordeaux France has a 4 day wine festival. For some exotic relaxation, take a red wine bath at the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa, which is also a hotel and vineyard. For an education in wine, the Ecole du Vin offers lessons about wine in English. To try more Bordeaux wines, visit the Haut-Brion chateau, and next to it, La Mission-Haut Brion.

BORDEAUX France cityview

France - The Eiffel Tower - the town of Marseille

The Eiffel Tower is an impressive sight in Paris France worth getting close to. Lie in the grass at the Champs de mars and gaze at the steel structure. Ascend the tower for spectacular views of Paris. At least once on your stay, return at night with a bottle of Merlot to watch the spectacular light display. The Eiffel Tower tops out at over 1,000 feet, containing 2 restaurants, a souvenir shop, a post office (for that one of a kind postmark), snack bar, and a viewing area. The world famous Eiffel Tower is a mass of iron designed by Gustave Eiffel for the Universal Exposition of 1889 and was the tallest structure in the world until 1930, when New York's Chrysler building surpassed it. The Paris tower faced criticism, especially from the artistic community of Paris, calling the structure a "truly tragic street lamp." Allegedly, Guy de Maupassant ate lunch on the lower level of the Paris tower everyday because it was the only view of the city in which he couldn't see it. The critics were slowly silenced as 2 million visitors ascended the tower 1889. Today, the Eiffel Tower is an icon of Paris, and is embraced by the city.

France vacations often include the town of Marseille, with its charming street markets, old port, and historic sections. Stout supporters of the revolution, Louis the XIV built two fortresses on the port, with guns facing the city. In addition, France's national anthem is called La Marseilles, named from the soldiers chanting the tune as the marched to Paris. Normandy is an historic area of France. Home to the D-Day beaches, as well as many charming and picturesque towns. Joan of Arch was burned in Rouen, an ancient, inland town with superb medieval buildings and museums. Mont-St-Michael bay contains a beautiful seascape, with a 264 feet granite wall. Most France vacations include a stop on the French Rivera. It has a plethora of jet set towns including Nice, Cannes, and Saint Tropez. I'll cover Nice France in depth, below. Bordeaux is home to amazing French wine and Lyon is a historic and well located metropolis, perfect for blitzing into Switzerland, Italy, and the Alps.

Nice France, on the French Riviera, has narrow lanes, markets, and all the enchantments of France, including art, food, and gorgeous architecture. Nice features pebbly beaches, and the sun kissed weather of the Mediterranean. In town you'll find picturesque buildings, art museums, and good hotels. Favored by aristocrats during the Victorian period, Nice France is now a popular destination for a multitude of travelers, and offers a variety of things to do and see, as well as its beautiful beaches. The modern art museum has a collection of art from 1950 onward. The Cathedrale Ste-Reparate, from the 17th century, has an 18th century bell tower, and a ceramic tile dome. Cours Salega in Nice France is a famed street, with 18th century houses, plane trees, and a daily market. The Cote d'Azur, and Nice France is a popular destination during France vacations.

France

France is home to beautiful countryside, great food and wine, friendly people, and a history full or art, architecture, and monuments. Three different bodies of water surround France, making three distinct regions of beaches and coves. France has a rugged, alpine area with hiking and ski resorts. Of course Paris France is the largest and most famous city in France, and it is home to many impressive and entertaining sights and venues.

Good Paris tours include plenty of monuments, famous museums, and world renowned dinning. Notre Dame cathedral, with its ornate interior is awe inspiring and popular destination. Pay homage to French author Victor Hugo, and ascend the bell tower for a look at the gargoyles from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The Arc de Triomphe, located on the famed avenue Champs Élysées and centered in the world largest traffic roundabout, is a simple, yet daunting monument commissioned by Napoleon. The gothic Saint Chapelle, built in the 13th century, has 15 stained glass windows depicting an entire biblical history.

Of course, Paris tours should include a healthy selection of museums. There's the Pompidou National Center of Art & Culture, home to an extensive modern art collection. The Musée d'Orsay, in a former railway station, displays French art nouveau, impressionist, and postimpressionist works. The Musée de Cluny, contains works from the middle ages, and a former Roman bath house, dating back to around 200 AD. Paris France is home to the world famous Louvre was built in the 12th century, and contains over 35,000 pieces of art, including the Mona Lisa.

Paris France has a dark side also. While taking Paris tours check out the Cimetiere du Pere Lachaise and le Catacombes. The cemetery includes the remains of Chopin, Moliere, Gertrude Stein, Jim Morrison, and the much kissed tomb of Oscar Wilde. Le Catacombes is an underground corridor made up of the bones of millions of Parisians are stacked after being exhumed from their graves to solve a hygiene problem in the late 18th century.