France - a state, the bulk of which lies on the territory of Western Europe. The country is washed by the Atlantic Ocean from the western and northern sides, the southern part is washed by the Mediterranean Sea. The state also includes several departments and the island of Corsica (its area is 8700 sq. Km). France is the largest country in Western Europe, its total area is 674.7 thousand square meters. kilometers, including adjacent land.
According to 2010 data, about 65.5 million people live in the state, of which 62 million settled on the continental part. In France, you can meet people of different nationalities, but the French occupy a leading position in the ethnic composition (more than 90%). The traditional monetary currency, as throughout Europe, is the euro. Most of the population speaks their native French.
A 2007 survey showed that 52% of French citizens profess Catholicism, 32% consider themselves atheists, 8% are Muslims, the rest are adherents of Protestantism (3%), Judaism (1%) and Buddhism (less than 1%).
France - the capital and major cities
"See Paris and die!" - so says the popular saying. And that phrase says it all. The muse city truly captivates, inspires, pushes for the most romantic acts. Each person feels his bewitching and magnetic energy. I would like to come back here again and again for a new portion of soul-exciting sensations.
The capital, located on the Seine River, is the millionth metropolis. About 2.2 million people live here. Paris is the heart of Europe, it is the center of the cultural, political and administrative life of France. The breath of history has touched every corner of this city. Museums, monuments, the famous Eiffel Tower, innovative and architectural structures complement the look of Paris. The city - the patron of fashion, art and exquisite beauty - always steps forward and is not afraid of change.
Other major cities in France include Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux and Toulouse.
Marseille is the largest port in the country, its entrance trade gate. Lyon - the "city of weavers" - is known for many buildings of the Renaissance. Bordeaux is famous for its wine production, rich cultural heritage; it can be safely attributed to the world capital of wine. Toulouse is home to many historical sites; "pink city", characterized by characteristic pink brick buildings.
France - holidays and tours
France is a country of contrasts and great ideas. Here everyone will find what he is looking for. The gentle sea, golden beaches, famous ski resorts, visits to ancient cities, bus tours, ancient castles, numerous museums - in France there is everything! Wellness recreation is also quite popular. Mud hydrotherapy, wine therapy, exotic massage - there are no treatments available! Thalassotherapy is one of the leading areas of relaxation.
Ski resorts will become a real find for fans of extreme sports and sports, because in France there are the Alps - the highest mountains of Western Europe. Ideal conditions, high service, tracks of varying difficulty, safety, and, of course, exciting adventures are guaranteed.
France - Attractions
Having entered the homeland of fashion and champagne, we first recommend visiting Paris. The capital has many attractions, cultural values and entertainment centers. The most interesting and visited places are: the Louvre, the Center Pompidou, the Museums d'Orsier and Picasso, the islet of Cite, where the Notre Dame Cathedral is located. You can not ignore the Latin Quarter, the Champs Elysees, museums of spirits and wax figures, try to climb the Montparnasse tower and overpower the famous Eiffel Tower with a height of 325 meters.
Versailles - the second most visited city - is known for its castle, the former residence of kings, preserving the pristine beauty. The Neptune basin and the Grand Canal are eminent exhibits of the castle.
Nice is the city of the Cote d'Azur. The center of attention in the city is the Promenade des Anglais - a chic boulevard 5 kilometers long. In addition to it, the city has many other attractions: a number of museums and churches, Nice Opera, Saint-Reparat Cathedral (17th century), Chateau Hill of extraordinary beauty, which houses a castle, a green park and a waterfall. Nowhere else will you find so many parks, gardens, statues and fountains.
Every city, every village in the country has gathered the very best that nature can give. France itself is a landmark of Europe and the entire globe.
France - weather (climate)
The climate of the country is moderate, due to its geographical location (between the North Pole and the equator), not too hot, not too cool. France is divided into 3 climatic zones: oceanic, occupying 2/3 of the entire territory, semi-continental prevails in the eastern part and mountain climates.
The average temperature in winter is from 0 to +10 degrees, except for mountainous areas. The average summer temperature ranges from +17 to +30 degrees.
Weather in France now:
France is characterized by mild winters with precipitation in the form of short showers. The annual rainfall is 580 mm, with an average of 90 days per year. The hottest month is August, the temperature in some areas can rise to +38 and above degrees.
France - national cuisine
The French are real gourmets, they are literally creative in everything. They have invested this important quality in shaping the kitchen.
Norman cheese, fine wines and champagne are recognized achievements of the country. French cuisine is rich and diverse, but mainly there are three areas in culinary: regional, widespread and high.
Most French dishes are prepared with selected wines, cognac and calvados. Stew fish in white wine, and meat in red. Strong drinks are an integral part in making flambe (a burning dish is served on the table). Spicy herbs complement gourmet dishes. And sauces are real masterpieces of local culinary specialists, the secret of which they keep a secret.
Most dishes include meat and fish, as well as vegetables; Exotic snacks - frog legs, snails and oysters - are famous all over the world.
A traditional dinner in France begins with hot and cold appetizers, then soup is served, the French prefer mashed soups, broths and adore onion soup. The third serves salad and cheese dishes (souffle, omelettes, etc.), and in addition to everything - a glass of red wine. You should definitely try the signature French pie called Kish-loren, baked with cheese and mushrooms.
France - interesting facts
1. The state ranks first in the world in the number of castles (about 5,000 pieces).
2. Women's tights - the most brilliant invention of the 20th century. By the way, it was glamorous France that released them.
3. Also, the country is the birthplace of cinema, bicycle, ballet.
4. Such a musical direction as chanson has French roots.
5. The most foul-smelling and expensive truffle mushrooms grow here.
France - visa application
A visa is required to enter the territory of a European country.
Types of visas: tourist without invitation, tourist with invitation, private and business visa. A document is drawn up within 2-4 business days, the price of a Schengen visa - from 35 euros + consular fee.
Embassy of France
Address: st. Big Yakimanka, 45
Phone for information: +7 (495) 937-1500
France map
