France is a wonderful holidaying destination, and whether you’re visiting the north or the south, there’s more than enough to keep you and your family occupied. If you’re an independent traveller, then France is the place for you. Not only does France offer some of the biggest and best beaches in Europe, but if you’re thinking about holidaying in the south then the weather is amazing.

Furthermore, France is also home to historic mountains, idyllic countryside, stunning castles and monuments, and luxury restaurants too. This country has something for everyone, and whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or something a little longer, France will be sure to oblige. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular tourist hotspots in France this year.

The Eifel Tower

The Eifel Tower is by far the most popular monument in France, and it received over 6 million visitors in 2003 alone! Built entirely from iron, this fantastic structure can be found on the Champ de Mars, just by the River Seine, and at over 1,000 feet you must be careful not to strain your eyes! Not only does the Eifel Tower represent Paris and France, but it also encompasses the human race’s ability to innovate and achieve. If you’re visiting Paris this summer, then make sure you visit the top of the Eifel Tower – ticket prices are only 12 Euros, and the view from the top is jaw-dropping.

Champs-Elysees

Another very famous tourist attraction in Paris, the Champs-Elysees is the equivalent of London’s Oxford Street. Home to the ‘most beautiful street in the world’, you’ll be able to shop to your heart’s content here, with vintage stores, coffee shops, malls and luxury avenues to choose from. In order to retain the Champs-Elysees original character, the City of Paris decided to ban and remove chain stores, with H&M being one of the first to be closed down.

Arc de Triomphe

Also known as the victory gate, this spectacular monument shines out like a beacon in the Paris night. It can be found towards the west side of the Champs-Elysees, and being built in 1806,  it was one of the many ways Napoleon honoured his military forces.

Place de la Concorde

This is the largest square and central meeting point in Paris, and built in 1755 there is some great architecture to be seen. The Place de la Concorde consists of a fountain and a monument, as well as over 86,000 square meters to stand and watch tourists go by. Back in the days of the French Revolution, the military used to behead people in this square! If you’re thinking about visiting France this summer, then make sure you check out the best hire car deals at Auto Europe.

Notre Dame de Paris

This magnificent cathedral is one of the most famous places to worship in the world, and it represents the pinnacle of French Gothic architecture. Built in 1163 and finished nearly 200 years later, the Archbishop of France still serves mass here, and if you’re taking a tour of the cathedral then make sure you check out the stained glass windows – they’re simply beautiful.