Travel Guide

There's so much to do in France compiling a list of top things to do is difficult. From outdoor activities, to historic monuments, to great food and wine, Paris is a historic and cultural center, with hundreds of top things to do and see. Normandy is a picturesque coastline, with the solemn D-Day beaches. Versailles was the political center of Paris for over a century. The French Riviera has some of the best beaches in the world. These are just a sprinkling of all the wonders France holds.

Some of the unique facts about France are as follows

• Climb the Eiffel Tower

Elevate the Eiffel Tower for spectacular views of Paris. At over 1,000 feet, the massive structure has two restaurants, a souvenir shop, viewing area, and more. Return at night with a bottle of Merlot and lie in the grass at the Champs de mars, gazing up at the spectacular light display. The Eiffel Tower faced early criticism, especially from the artistic community of Paris, calling the structure a "truly tragic street lamp." The critics were slowly silenced as 2 million visitors ascended the tower in 1889.

• Experience art at the Louvre

The Louvre, Paris' world famous museum, was built in the 12th century, and is divided into eight collections. The Portrait of Lisa Gherardini, also called the Mona Lisa, is on display (First Floor/denon/room 13), behind a glass case, roped stanchions, and a throng of museumgoers. Stop by for a look, and then head off to another section to become engulfed in the 35,000 pieces of art on display at the Louvre.

• Visit the Palace at Versailles

Located 13 miles southwest of Paris, Versailles was the political capital of France for over a century. Now, a popular tourist destination, visitors come to see the lavish palace, the abundant gardens, and the surrounding sights. Louis XIV built the Chateau de Versailles in the 17th century. No luxury or extravagance was spared. Every corner, ceiling, and wall is detailed with carvings, woodwork, marble, or another exquisite covering. Versailles makes an outstanding side trip from Paris.

• Climb the bell tower at the Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral is an impressive marvel of medieval architecture. Started in 1163 and completed in 1330, Notre Dame Cathedral has a striking gothic exterior, two broad towers, and plenty of sweeping arches. From the front, the arches above the three entryways, feature stone carvings of royal persona. Inside a 7800-pipe organ and a magnificent rose window from the 13th century, as well as carvings, statues, and saints. Climb the towers and see stone gargoyles, as well as a spectacular view of Paris. The south tower holds the great bell of Notre Dame, as tolled by Victor Hugo's fictional hunchback.

• Ride the Matterhorn at Disneyland Paris

Okay, they don't actually have a matterhorn, but Disneyland Paris is a full-featured vacation paradise with Disneyland Park, Walt Disney Studios, fantastic rides, a golf course, hotels, and the magic of Disneyland. With areas like Fronteirland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland, every member of the family is bound to find something to enjoy. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor the French military, Parisians refer to the Arc de Triomphe as L'Etoile, and revere it as a patriotic symbol of France's history.