France

France has many fine cities but most tourists invariable end up heading for the same popular destinations.

Paris is one of the world’s most romantic and photogenic cities. Situated on the Seine river, the city is famous for its grand Avenue Champs Elysee and Arch du Triomphe, the Gothic masterpiece of Notre Dame, Mont Martre - with it’s regal Sacre Coer Basilica and the lofty Eiffel tower - all famous international icons.

Other impressive attractions include the unmatched Louvre Musee, Musee d’Orsay and Hotel des Invalides, Illes des Cite (old city island) and Jewish quarter, along with endless world class galleries and museums. Although not as exciting by night as other major cities, Paris’ Moulin Rouge is the city’s most famous naughty corner. A tour of the Catacombes is also popular. There are also many magnificent gardens and parks, most notably out of town at Versailles.

Nice is the hub of the sparkling Cote d’Azure, situated in the sweeping Baie des Anges. the old town is a delightful mish-mash of winding streets, lively squares and Genoese, Provençal, medieval and Baroque architecture, all presided over by a 92m hill known as Le Château. Vieux Nice also has plenty of cafes and restaurants, and is a top spot in the evenings, with a swag of places to booze and boogie. Attractions include the Russian Orthodox Cathedral Cathédrale Sainte Réparate, Chapelle de la Miséricorde, Palais Lascaris, the belle époque Opéra house, Palais de la Méditerranée casino and grand Hôtel Negresco. Many prefer to stroll along the Promenade des Anglais at dusk. Cemenelum, the ancient Roman city, and a 16th-century monastery are found in nearby Cimiez. Nice is also famous for its world-class galleries and museums.

Nearby Monaco is famous for attracting the wealthy and bored, with its castle, super-yacht marina and Casino Royale.

Marseille has an equally lengthy history but today is a busy port town with a huge immigrant population and a rough reputation.