France is the third largest country in Europe in terms of land area and it draws in more than 70 million tourists every year. These tourists visit the many different exciting places in France from the world famous Riviera to the city of lights which is Paris. Museums, great architecture and great cuisine are what make France an interesting place to visit.



The ideal time to visit Paris is during spring or fall when the weather is good and the waiters in restaurants are good-tempered. For great skiing, the Alps is best visited during the months of December to January.

France got its name from the Latin word Francia which means "country of the Franks", a reference to the Germanic people who conquered the area during the 5th century B.C. It became a country during the 9th century and today it is a major member of the European Union.

Tourists who want to enter France must have proper documentation first. Citizens of the U.S. just need to present a valid passport to enter the country while citizens of other nations may be asked for a visa. Inquire at your nearest French embassy on the requirements needed to enter France.

When your visa is ready and you have finished packing up, the quickest way to go to France is by airplane. The city of Paris has two major international airports to handle flights; these are the Charles de Gaulle airport and Orly. Many flights from North America and European cities land at these airports.

Taking the train and bus is a cheaper although longer way of entering France. Trains and buses from nearby major European cities arrive and depart at Paris everyday bringing in lots of tourists and travelers alike.

Upon your arrival in France, finding accommodations would be your first priority unless you have booked in advance. There are many types of accommodations to choose from, be it hotels, hostels, bed and breakfast places or apartments and villas. Make sure to choose the accommodation that suits your needs. If staying only for a day or two in a particular area then a hotel is a good choice but if you plan to stay for a week or two in one particular area the renting an apartment would be much cheaper.

Once you have settled in then the fun begins. There are lots of tourist spots to visit all over the country. Paris city alone has many scenic spots like the world famous Eiffel tower which has come to symbolize the city and the Louvre which is a world famous art museum which was once the residence of kings.

For great beaches head out to the Riviera where the rich and the famous hang out or for great skiing proceed to the Alps. Feeling nostalgic? Then head out to the Normandy coast where Operation Overlord of World War II began.

After visiting these tourist destinations you may want to experience the nightlife of France. There are a lot of nightclubs, dance clubs, discotheques, bars and pubs for you to enjoy. The crowd is vibrant at night especially in major cities like Paris, Lyon and Marseilles.

When the day ends and you head out to your bed and sleep, the following day promises a new place for you discover.