SIGHTS IN FRANCE

1.  1.          Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) – Paris

                    

               The Eiffel Tower, designed by Gustave Eiffel built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution, has become the symbol of Paris and is one of the top tourist destinations in France. It can be seen from most vantage points in the city, but arguably the most spectacular view is from the Trocadéro in the 16^th arrondissement.  In the summer months, when tourism is at its peak, the lines for the elevator to go up the tower can be very long. You can walk to the first level, (360 steps) or the second (700 steps). There is a change of elevators on the second level, so you can stay on the second level, or go from there to the top if you’d like. Once you get to the top, there is an observation room surrounded by glass, so you need not go out in the winds to get the 360-degree view of the city from over 1000 feet up. Many tourists actually think the view from the second level is actually better than on the third. From the second level, you can see all the monuments and places of interest very well.

2.        Pont du Gard - Near Nimes

                    

                    A masterpiece of Roman architecture, the Pont du Gard, was constructed around 19 BC as part of a Roman aqueduct system that transported spring water from the nearby city of Uzès to Nimes. Constructed without mortar, this bridge carried 4.4 million gallons of water per day on its top level. The lower levels served as bridges over the Gard River 158 feet below. After not being used for more than 1700 years, the bridge was restored in the 19th century. Now, visitors can drive across the lower tier and walk across the two upper tiers. After you check out the bridge, wade in the clear blue waters of the Gard River, or take some time for photos with the bridge, an Unesco World Heritage Site, in the background.

3.       Mont-St-Michel

                    Linked to the mainland by a causeway constructed in 1877, the Mont-St-Michèl abbey rises majestically out of the shifting tides of the sea. The buildings on this isolated island date from the 11th century. Inspired by an apparition of St. Michael, the bishop of Tombe built an oratory on the island, which was followed by even more splendid buildings, all in honor of St. Michael. The beauty of Mont St. Michel is the view from afar, especially at dawn or dusk. The island itself has become somewhat of a tourist trap with one souvenir shop after another as you climb to the top of the abbey. However, view from the abbey over the sea and coastline is lovely, and definitely worth the climb. History buffs will enjoy taking a guided tour of the abbey and its grounds.

4.             Chateau de Chenonceau - Loire Valley

                   

        

            This stunning château is set atop the River Cher. Chenonceau is known as “Château des Dames,” because it owes a large part of its history and charm to women. Built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet (wife of Charles VIII of France), it was made more attractive by Diane de Poitiers (mistress of King Henry II) and Catherine de Médicis (wife of King Henry II), and saved from destruction during the French Revolution by Madame Louise Dupin (wife of a wealthy Frenchman, Claude Dupin). I highly recommend taking a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of this architectural gem. On your visit, you will see Renaissance furniture, a vast ensemble of XVIth and XVIIth century tapestries and a great number of masterpieces by Le Primatice, Rubens, Le Tintoret, Rigaud, Nattier, and Van Loo. Be sure to take some time to explore the exquisite gardens as well

5.             La Cite - Carcassonne

        














              This medieval town is complete with a moat, turrets and ramparts. Restored in the 19th century, thanks to the attentions of historian Viollet-le-Duc, the citadel of Carcassonne looks as it did when it was built by King Louis IX in the 13th century. It is a truly a beautiful and moving thing to see the cité’s golden buildings aglow in the sunlight or in the spotlights that come on after dark. A tour given by a history expert (when you arrive, stop by the visitor’s booth to find out more about tours and times) will unlock the secrets of this historic walled city. A visit to Carcassonne can easily take up the entire day. In the evening, enjoy a dinner at one of the many charming restaurants tucked back amongst the winding cobblestone roads.

Sumber : http://www.europeupclose.com/article/10-top-sights-in-france/