Map Of Northern France With Cities Travel Guide
Top Attractions
There are plenty of must-see attractions in Northern France. The most popular one is the Eiffel Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. Other notable attractions include the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Mont-Saint-Michel island.
Hidden Gems
The Chateau de Chantilly
This elegant chateau is located just outside of Paris and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The property also includes a horse museum and an art gallery that houses works by Raphael, Delacroix, and Ingres.
The Cote d’Opale
The Cote d’Opale is a stunning stretch of coastline that runs from Calais to Boulogne-sur-Mer. It’s a great spot for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, and there are plenty of charming fishing villages to explore.
Food Scene
The food scene in Northern France is known for its rich and hearty dishes. Some must-try dishes include escargots, coq au vin, beef bourguignon, and tarte tatin. The region is also known for its cheeses, such as Camembert and Roquefort, and its wines, including Champagne, Burgundy, and Bordeaux.
Budget-Friendly Tips
One of the best ways to save money while traveling in Northern France is to take advantage of the many free attractions, such as the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Another great option is to visit local markets and prepare your own meals with fresh, local ingredients.
Outdoor Adventures
Northern France offers plenty of outdoor adventures, including hiking in the Normandy countryside, cycling along the Loire Valley, and kayaking on the Ardèche River. There are also plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, rock climbing, and skiing in the winter months.
Historical Landmarks
There are many historical landmarks to explore in Northern France, including the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy, the Bayeux Tapestry, and the medieval city of Carcassonne. The region is also home to many impressive cathedrals and churches, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Reims Cathedral.
Family-Friendly Activities
For families traveling to Northern France, there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Some popular options include visiting the Parc Asterix theme park, exploring the Palace of Versailles, and taking a boat tour along the Seine River. Kids will also love learning about the region’s history at the many museums and historical sites.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for unique experiences, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path options in Northern France. Some ideas include visiting the stunning gardens at the Chateau de Villandry, exploring the underground tunnels of the La Coupole museum, or taking a hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley.
Natural Wonders
From the white cliffs of Etretat to the stunning lavender fields of Provence, Northern France is home to many natural wonders. The region is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Plage de Deauville and the Plage du Touquet, and its picturesque mountains, such as the Vosges and the Pyrenees.
Vibrant Nightlife
Northern France is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to explore. Some popular spots include the Moulin Rouge in Paris, the Caves du Roy nightclub in Saint-Tropez, and the La Belle Epoque jazz club in Nice.
Local Markets
Visiting local markets is a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of Northern France. Some popular markets include the Marché des Enfants Rouges in Paris, the Lille Wazemmes market, and the Cours Saleya market in Nice. Here you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous mountain getaway, Northern France has plenty to offer. Some popular beach destinations include the Cote d’Azur, the Normandy coast, and the Basque Country. For mountain enthusiasts, the Vosges and the Pyrenees offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Cultural Immersion
For those looking to immerse themselves in the culture of Northern France, there are plenty of options. Some ideas include taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional French dishes, attending a wine tasting in Bordeaux, or visiting a local artisan to learn about traditional crafts.
Art and Music Scene
Northern France is known for its rich artistic and musical heritage. The region is home to many world-class museums, such as the Louvre in Paris and the Musée d’Orsay. There are also plenty of music venues, such as the Olympia in Paris and the Palais Nikaia in Nice, where you can catch live performances by top artists.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of Northern France. Some popular options include the Paris Food Tour, the Montmartre Walking Tour, and the Nice Old Town Walking Tour. These tours offer a unique perspective on the history, culture, and architecture of the region.
Architectural Marvels
From the Gothic architecture of the Notre-Dame Cathedral to the Art Nouveau designs of the Paris metro stations, Northern France is home to many architectural marvels. Other notable landmarks include the Palace of Versailles, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur.
Historical Sites
Northern France is steeped in history, with many important historical sites to explore. Some must-see destinations include the Palace of Versailles, the Bayeux Tapestry, and the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy. The region is also home to many impressive cathedrals and churches, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Reims Cathedral.
Biking Routes
Biking is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of Northern France. Some popular routes include the Loire Valley bike route, the Normandy coast bike route, and the Canal du Midi bike route. These routes offer stunning views of the region’s natural beauty, as well as plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming towns and villages along the way.
Wellness Retreats
For those looking for a relaxing getaway, Northern France offers many wellness retreats and spa destinations. Some popular options include the Les Sources de Caudalie spa in Bordeaux, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa in Monaco, and the Chateau de la Redorte spa in Languedoc.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Northern France offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Some popular options include rock climbing in the Fontainebleau forest, skiing in the Pyrenees, and surfing in Biarritz. There are also plenty of opportunities for paragliding, skydiving, and bungee jumping.
With so much to see and do, Northern France is the perfect destination for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or adventure, this region has something for everyone.