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France

Destination guide

Paris

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Paris
Arles drove Van Gogh mad, but inspired him, too.

You’ll never look at a van Gogh the same way again after visiting here

Every time you see a van Gogh painting, you’ll think of this place, hot in the sun and exploding with colour and passion.

  • by Brian Johnston
The French are sticklers for niceties and a simple ‘bonjour’ will help melt the ice.

To win over the locals, this is the one thing travellers must do

French people are the rudest, most arrogant people in the world. Is it really true, or simply a cliche perpetrated by a bitter Brit?

  • by Belinda Jackson
Le meurice belle etoile suite
Opinion
Paris

The best hotels in Paris are not the five-star ones

Eye-wateringly expensive in every detail, from laundry charges to cups of tea, Paris’ luxury hotels are designated “palace” hotels for a reason.

  • by Lee Tulloch
Bread and butter can be mind-blowing when you have it in France.
Opinion
Opinion

It’s just bread and butter, but it might be the best thing I’ve ever tasted

On my list of most memorable mouthfuls, this knob of butter from a market in France is simply mind-blowing.

  • by Ben Groundwater
Through the mountains on the Mont Blanc Express.
★★★★½
Train journeys

It’s not fast or smooth, but this European train is a holiday highlight

This historic route travels to the foot of Europe’s highest mountain, with spectacular mountain scenery en route.

  • by Flip Byrnes
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The Royal Chapel at Versailles.

You could spend all day at Europe’s grandest palace without going inside

Arguably Europe’s most grandiose royal stronghold, the Palace of Versailles is an easy day trip from Paris.

  • by Mark Daffey
Grandstand with a view ... Eiffel Tower Stadium.

Paris is (still) the world’s best playground for travellers

Few countries can offer such a stunning, historical and cultural backdrop to sporting greatness. And the winners will be visitors to the City of Light for years to come.

  • by Tim Abrahams
A grand dame … the Carlton, Cannes.

Reborn icon: One of France’s most famous hotels still has star power

The newly refreshed Carlton is the most famous hotel in the south of France.

  • by Lee Tulloch
In the fields at Moët & Chandon.

Sparkling wine is just one of the highlights of Champagne, France

Champagne tours and tastings are an obvious must-do, but you can also explore the countryside by bike, learn how to cook French cuisine and indulge at a luxury wellness spa.

  • by Ellen Connolly
Arcade life, Paris.

Move over, Melbourne: Here’s how Paris does laneway culture

Hidden in plain sight, the covered arcades of the French capital are full of old-world charm, intrigue, restaurants and art.

  • by Steve McKenna

Original URL: https://www.theage.com.au/traveller/topic/france-9ug