Explore France

Location:
France

Currency:
euro (EUR)

Communications:
The telephone code for France: + 33

About:
Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader among European nations.

Since 1958, it has constructed a presidential democracy resistant to the instabilities experienced in earlier parliamentary democracies. In recent years, its reconciliation and cooperation with Germany have proved central to the economic integration of Europe, including the introduction of a common exchange currency, the euro, in January 1999.

At present, France is at the forefront of efforts to develop the EU's military capabilities to supplement progress toward an EU foreign policy.

France, a Texas-sized landmass, is one of the world's most significant countries, and a major industrial power.

Acclaimed for its art, fine wines, great museums, outstanding food, culture and style, it is also blessed with some of the finest soil and vineyards on the planet.

It is the world's leading tourist destination, and Paris, the capital city, is considered by many the most beautiful metropolis in the world, and is certainly the most visited city in Europe.

Corsica, a region of France, was ruled over the centuries by the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Goths and Saracens. It was eventually sold to France by the Genoese.

Located in the western Mediterranean, just to the north of Sardinia, it's 160 km (99 miles) southeast of Nice, France, and 82 km (51 miles) west of Tuscany, Italy.

Famous for its independent spirit, rugged beauty, olive oil, wine and citrus fruit, Corsica was the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its major industry is tourism, with many visitors arriving by ferry.

Top 10 Things to do in Paris

01 - Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower)
The Paris' landmark : in 1889 Gustave Eiffel gave the French flag a 300 m (984 ft.) pole to commemorate the revolution centenary.

02 - Arc de Triomphe
This arch was built in memory of Napoléon's Great Army at the top of the Champs-Elysées.

03 - Champs Elysées
The triumphal avenue aiming toward the Arc de Triomphe.

04 - Notre Dame
The major french religious building, masterpiece of gothic architecture.

05 - Opera Two operas
the original one built by Garnier in 1875 & Opera Bastille from 1989.

06 - Invalides
The major dome of Paris hosting Napoleon's ashes is part of a majestic hospital ordered by the Sun-king.

07 - Saint Germain, Saint Michel, Latin Quarter
The "intellectual" and new fashion district in Paris !

08 - Place de la Bastille
Landmark of the French Revolution better known today as a hip district hosting the new opéra.

09 - La Madeleine
Neo-Greek temple ordered by Napoleon in homage to its Great Army, today a rich catholic parish.

10 - Place de la Concorde
This vast and elegant symbol of reconciliation after the revolution displays the 3000 years old Luxor's obelisk.