Although the Ile de France is one of France's smallest regions (made up of only 8 departments), it is also one of the most densely populated and plays host a wide range of attractions that appeal to visitors from all generations.
Of all the departments within the Ile de France, Paris is perhaps the most well known, and offers visitors to the area a chance to see some of the world's most celebrated art in its numerous galleries, or simply while away the hours people watching from the comfort of a pavement cafe. However, the region extends beyond the city of love, and visits to the impressive palaces of Fontainebleau and Versilles are also highly reccomended. For visitors with young children, there are also numerous zoos, parks and theme parks to occupy those who might be too young to appreciate fine art just yet§
Airports: Roissy-Charles de Gaulle (approx 35km from Paris) and Orly (approx 20km from Paris).Shuttle buses and trains link Paris to both airports.
Be a guest to one of the world's most exclusive tables. France, land of gourmets and culinary arts, offers a bewildering array of food and wines from delicious simple fare to exquisite haute cuisine. With over 340 sorts of cheese and 450 quality wines France will satisfy every palate.
Beyond gastronomy, from North to South France sparkles with an incredibly rich cultural and historical heritage of famous castles, churches, cathedrals and museums carefully preserved and restored which makes it one the most sought afterand enthralling destination for holidaymakers from around the globe.
France takes prides in the rich and diverse tapestry of its magnificent landscapes which have been celebrated throughout the centuries by its many famous writers, poets and artists in words and creations so many of which have become part of the world's cultural heritage and still inspire today's travellers to discover it for themselves. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or want to commune with Nature, whether you wish to step back into history or are searching for an active sporting adventure, France will welcome you with open arms, seduce you with its warmth and entertain you with its wide range of attractions enabling you to achieve that perfect holiday.
A word of advice from Lagrange: French roads are excellent, but not free, so keep some euros handy.
