From Paris to Provence: A Journey Through the Best of France

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France enchants millions of travelers from all corners of the world every year with its rich history, world-class cuisine, and stunning landscapes. It is truly a wonder of a destination to behold, and with Exoticca, a premier travel agency, you can experience the very best of what it has to offer. From the highlights of Paris, Normandy, Bordeaux, and Provence, we’ll take you on an unforgettable journey that’ll leave you awestruck.

Paris

We begin our journey in the City of Light, Paris. This cosmopolitan capital city is known for its iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and world-renowned cuisine. One of the must-see attractions in Paris is the Eiffel Tower, the tallest structure in the city and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Tourists flock to the tower to take pictures and gaze in awe at the magnificent panorama of the city below.

Another popular attraction in Paris is the Louvre Museum. Located in a beautiful palace, it showcases the city’s illustrious cultural history. The museum also houses over 35,000 works of art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic Mona Lisa.

While in Paris, also take some time to explore the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais. These areas are known for their picturesque streets, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Many shops offering souvenirs, clothing, and handmade crafts can be found here as well.

No visit to Paris would be complete without indulging in the city’s world-renowned cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include croissants, baguettes, macarons, and of course, cheese. There are also plenty of food markets throughout the city where you can sample local delicacies and purchase fresh produce. Le Marais is home to Paris’s oldest covered food market, the Marchรฉ des Enfants-Rouges. Since its opening in 1615, the market has grown into a bustling center for vendors selling a wide variety of foods. Locals and visitors alike can be seen perusing the stalls, soaking in the vibrant displays and blend of various aromas.

Getting around the City of Light is a breeze, thanks to its extensive network of public transportation. The metro, buses, and trams are all affordable and efficient ways to explore the city. However, if you prefer a more seamless travel experience, consider booking a France tour package from the USA with Exoticca. Offering several carefully curated itineraries, you can relax and enjoy the trip without worrying about self-transfers or public transportation. One popular package is the “Paris, Loire Castles & Normandy,” which features a sightseeing tour by bus of the city’s top attractions, including the iconic Eiffel Tower, the grand Champs-Elysรฉes, the impressive Arc de Triomphe, and more.

Normandy

As we bid adieu to Paris, we embark on a journey northwest to Normandy, a region known for its scenic landscapes, charming towns, and rich history. The D-Day Landing Beaches, a series of beaches where Allied forces landed during World War II, are a major tourist draw in Normandy. The beaches have become a symbol of the Allied victory and are a must-visit for anyone interested in history. Various Exoticca packages offer this memorable experience, including the popular “Historical Cities & Fairytale Castles” package. This 16-day tour of France and Portugal is a favorite among travelers, providing ample time to explore and soak up the culture.

Another must-see attraction in Normandy is Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular attractions in France. The stunning island is topped by a medieval abbey and surrounded by water during high tide, giving it a mystical and enchanting appearance. When you book an Exotticca travel package with a trip to Mont Saint-Michel, admission to the abbey is included, allowing visitors to learn about its fascinating history or explore the charming town that surrounds it.

Normandy is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, cider, and cheese. Be sure to visit one of the local food markets to sample the local delicacies and purchase fresh produce.

Getting around Normandy is best done by car, as many attractions are in rural areas, but public transport options are available, including buses and trains.

Bordeaux

Continuing our journey through France, we head to Bordeaux, a city known for its world-class wines, stunning architecture, and rich history. One of its top attractions is the Bordeaux Wine Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history of winemaking in the region and various parts of the world.

Another must-visit attraction in Bordeaux is the Place de la Bourse, a stunning plaza surrounded by 18th-century buildings. This square is an excellent example of French neoclassical design, and its centerpiece is the famous Water Mirror, the world’s largest reflecting pool. This one-of-a-kind feature reflects the magnificent architecture surrounding it and is especially popular with children, who love to play and splash around in the shallow pool. And during summer, the plaza is filled with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the warm weather and cooling off in the refreshing mist of the fountain. A stroll around the plaza will lead you to the beautiful Pont de Pierre, a bridge with 17 arches that offers spectacular views of the Garonne River.

Bordeaux is also a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage cultivated over centuries. The region is renowned for its world-famous wines, but it’s not just the drinks that are a must-try. Bordeaux’s cuisine boasts a range of delicacies that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Canelรฉs, entrecรดte bordelais, oysters (typically served fresh with a squeeze of lemon), and lamprey ร  la bordelaise are some of the city’s most famous dishes. Its top delicacies include canelรฉs, entrecรดte bordelais, oysters (often served fresh with a squeeze of lemon), and lamprey ร  la bordelaise. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes throughout the city where you can sample these local specialties.

Apart from its cultural and culinary attractions, Bordeaux is also a great place to explore on foot or by bike. The city is home to many pedestrianized streets and bike lanes, making exploring the city’s charming neighborhoods easy and enjoyable.

Provence

Finally, we end our journey in Provence, a region known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and delicious cuisine. One of the top attractions in Provence is the lavender fields, which bloom in the summer months and offer a spectacular sight. The fields are often used as a backdrop for photos and are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Provence.

One of the top cultural attractions in Provence is the Palace of the Popes in the historic city of Avignon. This grand palace served as the residence for the popes of the Catholic Church during the 14th century, and its architecture and impressive size are a testament to the opulence and power of the time. Vacationers can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its fascinating history, including its role in the Great Schism of the Church, which saw two popes competing for power. A must-visit for art and history lovers alike, this destination also hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events.

When it comes to French cuisine, Provence is a region that is not to be missed. Dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade have made it famous, and they are sure to please the palate of any foodie. Go to a local food market to sample local delicacies and purchase fresh produce that you can later use to recreate some of the region’s most beloved dishes.

Getting around Provence is best done by car, as many attractions are in rural areas. However, public transport options are also available, including buses and trains.

The Unparalleled France

France embodies the quintessential European experience. Its enchanting architecture, breathtaking scenery, world-renowned cuisine, and cultural treasures have captivated the hearts of millions of visitors over the years. From the romantic streets of Paris, the chateaux of the Loire Valley, to the idyllic countryside of Provence, the diversity of its regions and attractions is truly unparalleled. Visiting France will be the trip of a lifetime, and Exoticca guarantees that the experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Jeff Campbell