10 Iconic French Landmarks to Add to Your Itinerary

France is a destination that is on the top of the list of places to visit for most people, for its rich culture, timeless art, delicious cuisine and amazing landmarks. Regardless if it’s your first visit or the return trip, the country is always able to please visitors with its wide range of sites. The first step to experience the best of France is to get your France Visa. However, with proper planning, your visa process will run smoothly, so you can concentrate on the country’s wonders.

France has something for everybody, from the busy streets of Paris to the calm castles in the countryside. Here’s a list of 10 iconic French landmarks that you simply shouldn’t miss and that you should definitely add to your travel itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

Here are the 10 Iconic French Landmarks to Add to Your Itinerary

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

France’s most famous landmark and a symbol of romance and elegance all over the world is undoubtedly the Eiffel Tower. This iron lattice tower stands over 300 meters tall and was built in 1889 and its three observation decks provide spectacular views of Paris. It’s a magical experience that whether you go during the day to see the city’s landmarks or at night when the tower sparkles with thousands of lights captures the heart of every traveler.

2. Louvre Museum, Paris

The Louvre is the world’s biggest art museum and a treasure trove for art lovers. Here you will find more than 35,000 works of art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo statue. Originally built as a royal palace, the museum itself is a historic monument. Under one roof centuries of art and history await you as you wander through its grand halls.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris

Since the 12th century, Notre-Dame Cathedral has been recognized as a famous landmark because of its French Gothic architecture. It is famous for its intricate facade, flying buttresses and amazing rose windows and is a place rich in history and spiritual significance. However, restoration efforts are ongoing even after the fire damage in 2019 and the cathedral’s beauty and importance are not to be questioned.

4. Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles which sits just a short trip from Paris, shows the grandness of French royalty. The palace is famous for its lavish Baroque architecture and vast gardens and it was the home of King Louis XIV, the Sun King. The ornate Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments and the 800 hectare perfectly manicured gardens are open to visitors. France’s royal past and artistic excellence are a glimpse into Versailles.

5. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy

Mont Saint-Michel is an amazing island commune with an old abbey on top of a hill, rising high out of the ocean. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by tidal waters and features some great views and a unique experience. Visitors can walk through its narrow streets and feel transported back in time surrounded by century’s old architecture and the natural beauty of the bay.

6. Château de Chambord, Loire Valley

The largest castle in the Loire Valley and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture is Château de Chambord. It has over 400 chimneys and ornate towers on its iconic French style roofline. The most well-known feature of the castle is the double helix staircase which was supposedly designed by the great Leonardo da Vinci. A fantastic place to visit history and nature, Chambord is surrounded by a vast forested park.

7. Arc de Triomphe, Paris

At the western end of the Champs-Élysées stands the Arc de Triomphe, in honour of those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The visitors can climb to the top to see the famous Paris avenue lined with trees and monuments. The arch is a poignant place of remembrance because it contains the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

8. Sainte-Chapelle, Paris

Famed for its dazzling stained glass windows which cover almost every inch of the upper walls of the chapel, this is a gem of Gothic architecture. Sainte Chapelle was built in the 13th century to house sacred Christian relics and its colorful windows explicate biblical scenes in fine detail. Situated on the Île de la Cité, the chapel is a peaceful place to visit and view one of the best pieces of medieval artistry.

9. Pont du Gard, Occitanie

An ancient Roman aqueduct bridge spanning the Gardon River, Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the best preserved of Roman engineering feats. It was built, nearly 2,000 years ago, to transport water over long distances and consists of a three tiered structure. Nowadays, this is a beautiful place for walking, picnicking and studying the Roman past in France.

10. Avignon – Palace of the Popes

During the 14th century this was the seat of the Catholic popes and one of the most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. The Palace of the Popes is a palace and a fortress which reflects the turbulent times when the papacy was moved from Rome to Avignon. The visitors can see the grand halls, chapels and courtyards to have a feel of its historical and architectural significance.

Conclusion

France’s incredible landmarks are a telling of the history, artistic brilliance and cultural heritage of the country. In case you are planning your trip, remember that applying early for your France Visa from India can make your journey smooth and also very enjoyable. Preparing your visa application in advance and carefully will save you from the last minute stress and you will be able to fully enjoy everything France has to offer.

They’re landmarks that will stay with you whether you are on your first visit or the repeat adventure. France offers you the possibility to wander and fall in love with its beauty from the lively streets of Paris to the quiet grandeur of the Loire Valley. If you want to take a trip to France, don’t forget to start your France Visa from India application so that you can make your dream trip come true!