France holiday packages
With so much to see and do, why not organise a package deal of the best that France has to offer!
What to do while you're here.
Climb the Eiffel Tower: Constructed in 1889, the modern, steel monument has faced its fair share of criticism form locals and artists, although it remains one of the world's most popular tourist attractions. The colossal structure has two restaurants, a viewing area and stands at more than 1000 feet tall. The views are spectacular, and well-worth the climb!
Come face to face with the Mona Lisa: The Louvre was built in the 12th century, and is separated into eight collections. With 35,000 pieces of art on display, it's easy to miss the small Portrait of Lisa Gherardini (otherwise known as the Mona Lisa), bu for the throng of museumgoers standing in front of her.
Visit the Palace at Versailles: Just over 15 kilometres from Paris, Versailles was the the political capital of France for more than 100 years. Louis XIV built the opulently extravagant Chateau de Versailles in the 17th century, complete with detailed carvings, gold-gilded furniture and marble floors.
See where the hunchback of Notre-Dame lived: Completed in 1330, the cathedral of Notre Dame is a magnificent example of medieval architecture. With a striking gothic exterior, the cathedral also contains a 7800-pipe organ, a beautiful rose window from the 13th century, and the infamous stone gargoyles on the external towers. The south tower contains the great bell of Notre Dame, as rung by France's fictional hunchback, Victor Hugo.
Go on a rollercoaster ride at Disneyland in Paris.
Lounge around on the French Riviera: In French it is called the 'Cote d'Azur' (translated to the azure blue coast) and it is the premier movie-star holiday location. With the high-fliers all popping into the towns of Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez, the French Riviera is regarded as Europe's most glamorous beach destination.
Normandy: Long associated with invasions and battles (from the Vikings in the 9th century, to the D-Day landings during the second World War), this picturesque region is steeped in history.
Visit the Arc de Triomphe: Built in 1806 to honour the French military, as commissioned by Napoleon, the Arc de Triomphe is also called 'L'Etoile' (the star). Once you climb to the top, you'll see how it got this name - the six roads that lead off the Arc de Triomphe make the munument look like a 'star'.
The picture-perfect Champs Elysees is the main road to lead away from L'Etoile, and is well-known for its beautiful boutiques and charming coffee shops.
Winter sports in the French Alps: the snowcapped mountains of the French Alps are popular year round. Skiers and snowboarders delight in more than 200 resorts. Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, is located here.
Do a wine tour in Bordeaux: This town has long been associated with its wine and countryside vineyards; Bordeaux wine is some of the best in the world. To learn more about wine, take a lesson at the Ecole du Vin.
Package deals and tours
For a children-friendly trip to France, check out the France Family Holiday Guides and package deals at http://www.france4families.com.
For more information on city package deals to Paris, or for other holidays around France, visit www.lastminute.com, www.holiday-to-france.co.uk, or www.holidayfrance.org.uk.
Specialist tour companies have been designed to help you get more out of your stay than the usual sights. These options give travelers low-cost Paris tours, air and hotel packages, and museum and Metro transportation passes.
Try one of the France Vacation packages - such as the 2-day Chateau country, 2-day Lourdes tour, or 22-day Riviera tour of the Cote d'Azur (available at www.frenchexperience.com).
Or visit www.frenchtravel.com.au to see the many cycling tours, regional tours, language/culture tours, wine tours, Paris tours and Chateau (castle) tours available in package deals.
Try Tempo Holidays (www.tempoholidays.com) for a Canal Crusing Tour, or visit Flight Centre (www.fligthcentre.com.au) for a holiday deal on the 'Chateaux of the Loire Valley'.
18-38s can try a Contiki Tour for a combined European experience - such as the 36-day 'European Adventure' which not only takes you around France, but also goes to Spain, Monaco, Italy, Greece, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and more.
