Paris

France as a country is like a superlative: It’s the largest country in Western Europe, bordering six other nations. It’s also the oldest country in Europe, existing in its present form since the 15th century

Some come to follow the trail of France's great philosophers, writers and artists, or to immerse in the beautiful language it gave the world. And others still are drawn to the country's geographical diversity with its long coastlines, massive mountain ranges and breathtaking farmland vistas. France has been the world's most popular tourist destination for over twenty years. People come to France for many a reason: its cities contain some of the greatest treasures on the continent, its countryside is prosperous and well-tended and it boasts dozens of major tourist attractions. France is one of the most geographically diverse countries in Europe, containing areas as different from each other as urban chic Paris, the sunny French Riviera, long Atlantic beaches, the winter sports resorts of the French Alps, the castles of the Loire Valley, rugged Celtic Brittany and the historian's dream that is Normandy. France is a country of rich emotions and turbulent politics but also a place of rational thinking and Enlightenment treasures. Above all, it is renowned for its cuisine, culture and history. Whatever you want from a holiday, you're about to find it in France.

France

Close to 20% of the national population lives here and the region is home to many international companies and prestigious universities and 'Grandes écoles' in France. The principal sectors are those of finance, consultancy and other high value-added services. Moreover, the worldwide attractiveness of Paris and the presence of the Disneyland theme park are also substantial sources of revenue. The region's road and rail transport networks are extremely well served, facilitating trade and travel. But all is not urban sprawl, however: the region is also known for its natural beauty, in the form of parks, forests and river land. The region is also one the most touristic of the country, but not by french people. With Paris as one of the most visited city of the world the region has a real touristic power all over the world.

Île-de-France

Inaugurated in 1856 by Napoleon III, the Pont de l’Alma (Alma bridge) became infamous in 1997, after the tragic death of Princess Diana. But locals know this bridge mainly as a location of a stone statue, named the Zouave. This statue from 1856 serves as an informal flood marker.  Photo Credit © iStockphoto/VitalyEdush

Pont de l'Alma, Paris

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