France


HOME Europe France Ukraine England Poland Austria Netherlands Portugal Spain Germany Azia Egypt Cyprus Turkey India Sri-Lanka China Japan Africa Tunisia Kenya Tanzania Zambia Botswana	Area: 550 sq. km Population: 62 million Capital: Paris In French Currency: EUR The average temperature in winter +5 +7 � C, in summer +22 +24 � C Elegant and eternally young France beckons travelers with its irresistible charm and cosmopolitanism, culture of different eras and bold modernity. The Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees, Fontainebleau and Versailles, the Louvre and the castles of the Loire, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the "Grand Opera" enchant tourists from all over the world. Sentimental and wise France has enriched the world culture masterpieces of art and literature, educational ideas and research: The French Revolution, painting impressionist, realism Balzac and more controversial and debates until today. The capital of world fashion trendsetter of style and form, France dictated peace canons of beauty and aesthetics, formulated by Coco Chanel and extended by new generations of designers. No less glory of France and brought gold voice of Edith Piaf, Mireille Mathieu, Charles Aznavour, Joe Dasena, ascended to the rank of French language of love. France can boast as the Côte d'Azur, the most aristocratic place of a beach holiday and luxurious ski resorts, which usually spend their holidays representatives royalty. It is not surprising that all of humanity wants to go to France, to walk the streets and feel Pissarro heady atmosphere of freedom and grandeur. Climate in France France is at the same distance from the pole and the equator, and that is why the climate of this country is characterized as moderate - it is not too cold and not too hot. The entire territory of France is divided into three climatic zones: oceanic climate polukontinentalnogo climate and Mediterranean climate separately by topography allocated area of the mountain climate. Oceanic climate prevails in 2/3 of the entire western France. Its feature is the soft and relatively high humidity. Winters are warm and cool summers. Total rainfall is low. Oceanic climate is also divided into three types: the Flemish - in the north, with colder winters and rainy summers, Aquitaine - the west and south, with a hot and dry summer, clear autumn and frequent rains in spring, Paris - with hotter summers and colder winters . Polukontinentalny climate prevails in the east and in the valleys, protected from the westerly winds. It is characterized by hot summers with frequent thunderstorms and cold winters with heavy snowfalls. Temperature variations in the July-January more than 18? Mediterranean climate prevails on the Mediterranean coast, sheltered from the ocean by mountains. It is characterized by an abundance of sunny days, dry summers and very mild winters. Precipitation in the form of heavy rains fall in autumn and spring. Mountain climate prevalent in the high mountains of France. It is characterized by long, cold winter, which becomes more severe with increasing altitude, abundant rainfall, significant snow. Nice has an exceptionally favorable microclimate, which for nearly two centuries, helps to maintain its good name. Open sea, the city is protected from winds by the hills to the west the Esterel massif and the north-west - alpine ridge Mercantour. Climate: stable mild winter, and thanks to the sea breeze in summer is never too hot. Often, in the midst of the month of February, you can dine outside on the terrace, while in the rest of France are cold. Traditions of France French nation - one of the oldest in Europe, with a rich history and culture. French more gallant than polite, skeptical and calculating, cunning and resourceful. At the same time, they are enthusiastic, trusting and generous. In France, they like them to show off short, silent man kills himself socially. French conversation is casual in nature and is extremely fast. Great influence on the French style of business communication education has focused on education of independent and critical citizens. In business life play an important role personal relationships and dating. New partners seek indirectly related friendship, family or financial relations. French skillfully, even with grace, defend this or that principle and its position in this rather tough negotiating and usually have no fallback position. The French did not differ in accuracy and is not always punctual. Receptions follow the rule: the higher the status of the visitor, the later it arrives. Being invited to dinner his business partner in France is an exclusive honor. Frenchman's good to hear clumsy French than English is excellent, besides they do not like Americans. French Law in 1994 about the use of the French language requires the mandatory use of French in the titles, ads, advertising, products and services, as well as financial statements. If the message in a foreign language is made on any property, it can serve as the basis for revising the terms of the use of property. Attractions in France Versailles Versailles is one of the most visited treasures of France. This luxurious palace complex famous for its magnificent gardens with amazing sculptures, fountains and pools. The main palace complex (Chateau de Versailles) was built in the XVII century by King Louis XIV, who wanted to move here from unsafe Paris. Deluxe rooms are richly decorated with marble, velvet and wooden carvings. Especially highlighted Royal Chapel, Venus Salon, Salon of Apollo, and the Hall of Mirrors. Making state rooms was dedicated to the Greek gods. Hall of Mirrors has 17 huge mirrors, reflecting the high arched windows and crystal chandeliers. One of the most beautiful palaces - Grand Trianon - built by Louis XIV for his mistress Madame de Maintenon. Here monarch enjoyed spending his free time. Petit Trianon - another love nest, built by King Louis XV for Madame de Pompadour. Later Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette occupied, and later Napoleon's sister. Located near the temple of love was a favorite of Marie Antoinette for a garden party. Burgundy Burgundy - a historical province of France. This is a unique and blessed land, glorious golden villages, old castles and churches, culinary traditions and rivers. The surrounding area has many lakes Saens, district Charolais - is green pastures and meadows. Business card Burgundy - her fault. Continuous strip from north to south stretch the famous vineyards, winemaking is an ancient center of Beaune, still retained the influence of Flemish culture, especially in architecture. In the Middle Ages the city defended by a deep ditch and fortified castle, whose ramparts and watch towers and today decorate the urban landscape and its moats and ditches turned into parks and gardens. Be sure to visit the Museum of wine or burgundy wine cellars "cava", as well as surrounding villages, each of which has a unique architecture and its local wines. Provence Provence - is more than 900 km. beaches and coves of the Côte d'Azur to the Camargue, thousands of kilometers of mountain slopes of the Alps just an hour away from the beach, buried in the hills of vineyards, castles and olive groves. Here you can find a lot of interesting things - you can visit the most extensive wine-making in Provence - Cote de Provence, Bandol and Côtes-du-Rhône, the Roman monuments Glanum, olive groves (you can even see the making of butter by hand), the canyon of the river Verdon, pottery Workshops Moustier or Apt, Aubagne, where do unique porcelain miniature palace-fortress Dad, small villages Luberon, the Roman amphitheater in Arles and Nimes, a grotto near Aix, which hid Mary Magdalene, a grand basilica in St. Maxime, villas or Vaison XVII century mansions in Mirabeau. In the delta of the Rhone to the west of the region lies the famous Camargue Biosphere Reserve, inhabited by pink flamingos and over 300 species of migratory birds that live here only South European population of otters and water turtles and the famous white horse. Along the coast from the mouth of the Rhône to Saint-Marie-de-la-Mer, stretched wide, sandy beaches, and the Riviera - is also Provence. Cities in France Paris Paris, the main French city, comfortably settled on the two banks of the Seine. It smells of sweet coffee and croissants. Paris - The Many Faces of the giant with more than 2,000 years of history, tourist mecca of Europe. Go through the medieval streets and elegant boulevards, admire famous monuments, sit in the jazz cellar, visit the grand opera and breathe in the air of this city special dreams, probably everyone. Paris modern still keeps romantic signs of the past, but today it is not only the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Champs Elysees and Notre Dame Cathedral. It is the second largest city in Western Europe, after London, lived here for more than 10 million people. This fold of the political, administrative and cultural life of France. Marseilles Marseille - the administrative center of the Bouches-du-Rhone, whose population at the beginning of the century has exceeded 1.3 million, is the second in terms of population, level of development of the industry and the largest port city in France, situated on the Mediterranean Sea. Marseille is not only a major seaport, with a turnover of over 90 million tons per year and the southern gateway of the country. As in any other city in France in Marseille mutually coexist, sometimes sharply conflicting, high-tech industries, large and dynamic business, history, and modern intensive cultural life. Marseille - a city of universities, museums, ancient architecture, fine arts, coupled with tens of twinning cities, including Odessa, Ukrainian, Japanese Kobe, Israeli Haifa. Marseille was founded ca. 600 BC. e. who were looking for new lands fokeytsami life, Greeks from Asia Minor. In those days, he wore dobibleyskie name Massilia. But it is unlikely that the term is an exact date of the foundation of human settlement here. There is evidence that the first people came to these places twenty-six thousand years ago. The highest point of the historical development of Marseille, which brought him fame as a world city, falls at the end of X! X century, when France has successfully colonized North Africa and the Suez Canal was opened by France mighty world power and one of the main rivals of England in maritime affairs. It was then "share" the port of Marseille, sharply "went up" and the city began to grow rapidly and develop. In the city the main attractions are in the center. Undoubtedly, the most interesting objects of attention of tourists should include most fashionable and lively street of Marseille. When the guests of the city crossing the street, their gaze presents old port of Marseille Vieux Port. Other popular places in the city, especially the place around the Opera House, where Marseille like "hang out" in the warmer months. Interestingly, the night life of this port city with enormous opportunities and global history is quite modest. Most native residents in the evenings go to the specially arranged holiday night clubs - satellite Marseille Aix en Provence. The dominant point of Marseille and one of the favorite places of pilgrimage for tourists Notre-Dame de la Garde. It rises to a height of 154 meters. The first chapel of the cathedral was built in in 1214. In 1524, François first initiated serious work on the construction of the fort in Marseilles. Modern "format" of the cathedral must work, which were very active here in the 19th century. From the cathedral with a spectacular view of the city and the main area of the sea almost all of European history - the Mediterranean. Through the efforts of Alexander Dumas became world famous castle on the island of If, dark, cold, damp with dungeons opisannmi so vividly in his novel "The Count of Monte Cristo." Another notable landmark building Marcel Cité Radez (radiant city), whose appearance in the city in the middle of the last century due to the name of one of the most revolutionary architects of the world in those years of Le Corbusier. This semnadtsatietazhnoe residential building, standing on concrete piles. Among other things, the birthplace of Marcel wonderful comedian Fernandel, a place where the most famous film directors over the world love to make movies. This city - football. For example, the city's building Marcel was a natural setting for the filming of "Taxi" and "Taxi 2". Marseille - a city where they know a lot about football. It is based very strong football clubs, the most famous of which is the "Olympic" - several times champion of France, which included long played a unique Zidane. In 1998, the stadium used by the club for training and games, was one of those games where were triumphant in France the World Cup. Special place in the life of the city, which gives it a special oriental flavor and rise to complex social problems is Arabic quarter. It is close to the old port. It is here that the European spirit of Marcel absorbs the flavor of the East. It is here that one can see how the world of French in its history is intertwined with the history of Arab and African civilizations. The mixing of cultures, nations and styles determines a particular style of life, where there is diversity, often spilling over into conflicts on ethnic grounds. It was in Marseilles, in contrast to Nice and Cannes, France appears in its natural state, without the characteristic tourist cities "show off". " Marseille city marked in the history of the French Revolution. It was here that the poet and musician Rouget de Llve anthem was composed of revolutionary France. And it is here during the revolution of the late XVIII century, Paris was the revolutionary Marseilles battalion, singing on the go most fashionable one hit turbulent times. Of course, of great importance in the life of Marseilles, and not only business is the sea. It has its own beaches, studded with fine sand. The quiet rocky coves residents and visitors enjoy fishing, sailing, swimming, SCUBA diving. Here, in the restaurants located around the old port, is preparing the famous bouillabaisse - a luxurious ear welded from several species of fish. Here and know a lot about fresh mussels cooked in onion broth supplemented with Provencal herbs. Lyons Lyon - the capital of the region of Rhone-Alpes, the second largest city in France and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Located at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone. The population of Lyon metropolitan area has about a half million people. Lyon was founded by veteran Julius Caesar Munatius Plank in 43 BC. e. and was called Lugdunum, which can be interpreted as "Raven Hill", "hill of light" or hill Celtic god Lugh. City as a Roman colony, appeared on the hill, now called Fourvière. Now there is the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière - Lyon character and you can see the well-preserved Roman theater. In the Middle Ages the city down to the waterfront Sona - there is now a unique Old Lyon - fully preserved quarter of the Renaissance (the largest after Venice), and gradually, over time, the city's neighborhoods occupied all the space around the confluence of the rivers and the nearby hill - the Croix-Rousse. According to the famous historian Fernand Braudel, Lyon concentrates in itself all collisions French history without visiting this city, you can not feel France. It is the home of the Emperor Claudius and Caracalla, Pierre Waldo and Louise Labe, Madame Recamier and Ampere, Saint-Exupéry and Jean-Michel Jarre. Despite the attempt to revolutionaries in the late XVIII century destroy Lyon, the city has survived and flourished, challenging the bustling Paris. Lyon is one of the economic centers not only in France but also in Europe as a whole. Especially developed here industries such as petrochemicals, medical equipment manufacturing, information and biotechnology, textiles, originating as early as the Middle Ages. Lyon also - one of the leading centers of the world of science. Catholic University of Lyon is listed in the world rankings over the Sorbonne. Lyon doctors have achieved stunning success in the fight against cancer. In addition, Lyon - recognized cultural center of Europe. It has an international airport - Saint-Exupery. From Paris to Lyon - two hours by high-speed train, the same - from Lyon to Marseille or Geneva. After entering Switzerland in the Schengen Agreement, the role of Lyon as an international commercial and tourist center has been steadily increasing. For tourists in the capital of the region of Rhone-Alpes all conditions comfortable stay. There are more than a dozen four-star hotels, but hotels with fewer stars will bring tourists really enjoy its comfort. Lyon attractions are so numerous that to describe them would require a book. In any case, it is to forget the strange stereotype of Lyon as a purely industrial city, is not of interest to tourists. Lyons mention some museums - Museum of Fine Arts, the second in France after the Louvre Museum, the Lumiere brothers, telling of the birth of cinema, the Museum of the car, Henri Malyartra with a unique collection of vintage cars and bikes. For believers, it is important that the facility is located in Lyon pilgrimage - Amphitheater Three Gallium - the place of martyrdom of Christians in 177 year. I must say that Lyon - a very green city with clean air. Lungs of the city - a huge park "Golden Head", an ideal place for an evening stroll and families. The park - the largest urban park in Europe, there is a zoo and numerous botanical gardens and greenhouses. In early December, held annually in Lyon Festival of Lights - a real extravaganza of art lighting. Celebration attracted to the city, more and more tourists - last year there were 6 million. In addition, in July and August in the ancient theater of the performing arts festival is held "Furverskie night", and at the end of April in celebration of the Renaissance costume arranged Lyon - the city in which was born the immortal work of François Rabelais. It is no accident Rabelaisian spirit literally permeates every corner of Lyons. Lyon - a city ranked first in the world in the number of restaurants per square kilometer. And what restaurants! Suffice it to mention a living legend of French gastronomy, Paul Bocuse, after which every two years in Lyon, conducted by the World Festival of Culinary Art "Bocuse d'Or". Lyon streets literally covered with small restaurants - Bouchon, each of which serves traditional cuisine of Lyon - curd "brains weaver 'pie from bird liver, sapper apron - baked roll, spiced with a refreshing bottle of" Cotes du Rhone. " There is a whole street, consisting of one restaurant, by the way, never empty. The unique atmosphere of Bouchon, combined with the luxury of expensive restaurants and kindness of old quarters of the string touches the innermost heart. By the way, here, and the world-renowned Institute of Culinary Arts and Restaurant Business "Vatel," which suggests that it may Lyon without boasting call itself the capital of French cuisine. Visitors Lyon, of course, will be pleased with shopping opportunities. In the area of the station Part-Dieu opened one of Europe's largest shopping centers, and in the fashionable district of Lyon Presk'il (Peninsula), boutiques major brands. There you can buy fabric and Lyons, especially silk, which has long been famous for Lyon. Outside, Auguste Comte are antique shops and private art galleries, which may also be of interest to the visitor. We should also mention, more precisely, recall that in Lyon, at Gerland Stadium, Lyon are playing the famous "Olympic" - one of the top football clubs in Europe. The city attracts many artists, theater groups and musical bands, and the stay in Lyon can easily include a concert or a football match. Given the unique geographical position of the city, it is not surprising that it regularly hosts numerous professional exhibitions, seminars and conferences. City Hall and the Chamber of Commerce of Lyon favorable for the development of international cooperation and willingly help to organize in any event.

Area: 550 sq. km
Population: 62 million
Capital: Paris
In French
Currency: EUR
The average temperature in winter +5 +7 � C, in summer +22 +24 � C

Elegant and eternally young France beckons travelers with its irresistible charm and cosmopolitanism, culture of different eras and bold modernity. The Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees, Fontainebleau and Versailles, the Louvre and the castles of the Loire, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the "Grand Opera" enchant tourists from all over the world. Sentimental and wise France has enriched the world culture masterpieces of art and literature, educational ideas and research: The French Revolution, painting impressionist, realism Balzac and more controversial and debates until today. The capital of world fashion trendsetter of style and form, France dictated peace canons of beauty and aesthetics, formulated by Coco Chanel and extended by new generations of designers. No less glory of France and brought gold voice of Edith Piaf, Mireille Mathieu, Charles Aznavour, Joe Dasena, ascended to the rank of French language of love. France can boast as the Côte d'Azur, the most aristocratic place of a beach holiday and luxurious ski resorts, which usually spend their holidays representatives royalty. It is not surprising that all of humanity wants to go to France, to walk the streets and feel Pissarro heady atmosphere of freedom and grandeur.

Climate in France

France is at the same distance from the pole and the equator, and that is why the climate of this country is characterized as moderate - it is not too cold and not too hot.

The entire territory of France is divided into three climatic zones: oceanic climate polukontinentalnogo climate and Mediterranean climate separately by topography allocated area of the mountain climate.

Oceanic climate prevails in 2/3 of the entire western France. Its feature is the soft and relatively high humidity. Winters are warm and cool summers. Total rainfall is low. Oceanic climate is also divided into three types: the Flemish - in the north, with colder winters and rainy summers, Aquitaine - the west and south, with a hot and dry summer, clear autumn and frequent rains in spring, Paris - with hotter summers and colder winters .

Polukontinentalny climate prevails in the east and in the valleys, protected from the westerly winds. It is characterized by hot summers with frequent thunderstorms and cold winters with heavy snowfalls. Temperature variations in the July-January more than 18?

Mediterranean climate prevails on the Mediterranean coast, sheltered from the ocean by mountains. It is characterized by an abundance of sunny days, dry summers and very mild winters. Precipitation in the form of heavy rains fall in autumn and spring.

Mountain climate prevalent in the high mountains of France. It is characterized by long, cold winter, which becomes more severe with increasing altitude, abundant rainfall, significant snow.

Nice has an exceptionally favorable microclimate, which for nearly two centuries, helps to maintain its good name. Open sea, the city is protected from winds by the hills to the west the Esterel massif and the north-west - alpine ridge Mercantour. Climate: stable mild winter, and thanks to the sea breeze in summer is never too hot. Often, in the midst of the month of February, you can dine outside on the terrace, while in the rest of France are cold.

Traditions of France

French nation - one of the oldest in Europe, with a rich history and culture. French more gallant than polite, skeptical and calculating, cunning and resourceful. At the same time, they are enthusiastic, trusting and generous. In France, they like them to show off short, silent man kills himself socially. French conversation is casual in nature and is extremely fast.

Great influence on the French style of business communication education has focused on education of independent and critical citizens. In business life play an important role personal relationships and dating. New partners seek indirectly related friendship, family or financial relations. French skillfully, even with grace, defend this or that principle and its position in this rather tough negotiating and usually have no fallback position.

The French did not differ in accuracy and is not always punctual. Receptions follow the rule: the higher the status of the visitor, the later it arrives. Being invited to dinner his business partner in France is an exclusive honor.

Frenchman's good to hear clumsy French than English is excellent, besides they do not like Americans. French Law in 1994 about the use of the French language requires the mandatory use of French in the titles, ads, advertising, products and services, as well as financial statements. If the message in a foreign language is made on any property, it can serve as the basis for revising the terms of the use of property.

Attractions in France

Versailles

Versailles is one of the most visited treasures of France. This luxurious palace complex famous for its magnificent gardens with amazing sculptures, fountains and pools. The main palace complex (Chateau de Versailles) was built in the XVII century by King Louis XIV, who wanted to move here from unsafe Paris. Deluxe rooms are richly decorated with marble, velvet and wooden carvings. Especially highlighted Royal Chapel, Venus Salon, Salon of Apollo, and the Hall of Mirrors. Making state rooms was dedicated to the Greek gods. Hall of Mirrors has 17 huge mirrors, reflecting the high arched windows and crystal chandeliers. One of the most beautiful palaces - Grand Trianon - built by Louis XIV for his mistress Madame de Maintenon. Here monarch enjoyed spending his free time. Petit Trianon - another love nest, built by King Louis XV for Madame de Pompadour. Later Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette occupied, and later Napoleon's sister. Located near the temple of love was a favorite of Marie Antoinette for a garden party.

Burgundy

Burgundy - a historical province of France. This is a unique and blessed land, glorious golden villages, old castles and churches, culinary traditions and rivers. The surrounding area has many lakes Saens, district Charolais - is green pastures and meadows. Business card Burgundy - her fault. Continuous strip from north to south stretch the famous vineyards, winemaking is an ancient center of Beaune, still retained the influence of Flemish culture, especially in architecture. In the Middle Ages the city defended by a deep ditch and fortified castle, whose ramparts and watch towers and today decorate the urban landscape and its moats and ditches turned into parks and gardens. Be sure to visit the Museum of wine or burgundy wine cellars "cava", as well as surrounding villages, each of which has a unique architecture and its local wines.

Provence

Provence - is more than 900 km. beaches and coves of the Côte d'Azur to the Camargue, thousands of kilometers of mountain slopes of the Alps just an hour away from the beach, buried in the hills of vineyards, castles and olive groves. Here you can find a lot of interesting things - you can visit the most extensive wine-making in Provence - Cote de Provence, Bandol and Côtes-du-Rhône, the Roman monuments Glanum, olive groves (you can even see the making of butter by hand), the canyon of the river Verdon, pottery Workshops Moustier or Apt, Aubagne, where do unique porcelain miniature palace-fortress Dad, small villages Luberon, the Roman amphitheater in Arles and Nimes, a grotto near Aix, which hid Mary Magdalene, a grand basilica in St. Maxime, villas or Vaison XVII century mansions in Mirabeau.
In the delta of the Rhone to the west of the region lies the famous Camargue Biosphere Reserve, inhabited by pink flamingos and over 300 species of migratory birds that live here only South European population of otters and water turtles and the famous white horse. Along the coast from the mouth of the Rhône to Saint-Marie-de-la-Mer, stretched wide, sandy beaches, and the Riviera - is also Provence.

Cities in France

Paris

Paris, the main French city, comfortably settled on the two banks of the Seine. It smells of sweet coffee and croissants. Paris - The Many Faces of the giant with more than 2,000 years of history, tourist mecca of Europe. Go through the medieval streets and elegant boulevards, admire famous monuments, sit in the jazz cellar, visit the grand opera and breathe in the air of this city special dreams, probably everyone.
Paris modern still keeps romantic signs of the past, but today it is not only the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Champs Elysees and Notre Dame Cathedral. It is the second largest city in Western Europe, after London, lived here for more than 10 million people. This fold of the political, administrative and cultural life of France.

Marseilles

Marseille - the administrative center of the Bouches-du-Rhone, whose population at the beginning of the century has exceeded 1.3 million, is the second in terms of population, level of development of the industry and the largest port city in France, situated on the Mediterranean Sea.
Marseille is not only a major seaport, with a turnover of over 90 million tons per year and the southern gateway of the country. As in any other city in France in Marseille mutually coexist, sometimes sharply conflicting, high-tech industries, large and dynamic business, history, and modern intensive cultural life. Marseille - a city of universities, museums, ancient architecture, fine arts, coupled with tens of twinning cities, including Odessa, Ukrainian, Japanese Kobe, Israeli Haifa.
Marseille was founded ca. 600 BC. e. who were looking for new lands fokeytsami life, Greeks from Asia Minor. In those days, he wore dobibleyskie name Massilia. But it is unlikely that the term is an exact date of the foundation of human settlement here. There is evidence that the first people came to these places twenty-six thousand years ago. The highest point of the historical development of Marseille, which brought him fame as a world city, falls at the end of X! X century, when France has successfully colonized North Africa and the Suez Canal was opened by France mighty world power and one of the main rivals of England in maritime affairs. It was then "share" the port of Marseille, sharply "went up" and the city began to grow rapidly and develop.
In the city the main attractions are in the center. Undoubtedly, the most interesting objects of attention of tourists should include most fashionable and lively street of Marseille. When the guests of the city crossing the street, their gaze presents old port of Marseille Vieux Port. Other popular places in the city, especially the place around the Opera House, where Marseille like "hang out" in the warmer months. Interestingly, the night life of this port city with enormous opportunities and global history is quite modest. Most native residents in the evenings go to the specially arranged holiday night clubs - satellite Marseille Aix en Provence.
The dominant point of Marseille and one of the favorite places of pilgrimage for tourists Notre-Dame de la Garde. It rises to a height of 154 meters. The first chapel of the cathedral was built in in 1214. In 1524, François first initiated serious work on the construction of the fort in Marseilles. Modern "format" of the cathedral must work, which were very active here in the 19th century. From the cathedral with a spectacular view of the city and the main area of the sea almost all of European history - the Mediterranean.
Through the efforts of Alexander Dumas became world famous castle on the island of If, dark, cold, damp with dungeons opisannmi so vividly in his novel "The Count of Monte Cristo." Another notable landmark building Marcel Cité Radez (radiant city), whose appearance in the city in the middle of the last century due to the name of one of the most revolutionary architects of the world in those years of Le Corbusier. This semnadtsatietazhnoe residential building, standing on concrete piles.
Among other things, the birthplace of Marcel wonderful comedian Fernandel, a place where the most famous film directors over the world love to make movies. This city - football. For example, the city's building Marcel was a natural setting for the filming of "Taxi" and "Taxi 2". Marseille - a city where they know a lot about football. It is based very strong football clubs, the most famous of which is the "Olympic" - several times champion of France, which included long played a unique Zidane. In 1998, the stadium used by the club for training and games, was one of those games where were triumphant in France the World Cup.
Special place in the life of the city, which gives it a special oriental flavor and rise to complex social problems is Arabic quarter. It is close to the old port. It is here that the European spirit of Marcel absorbs the flavor of the East. It is here that one can see how the world of French in its history is intertwined with the history of Arab and African civilizations. The mixing of cultures, nations and styles determines a particular style of life, where there is diversity, often spilling over into conflicts on ethnic grounds. It was in Marseilles, in contrast to Nice and Cannes, France appears in its natural state, without the characteristic tourist cities "show off". "
Marseille city marked in the history of the French Revolution. It was here that the poet and musician Rouget de Llve anthem was composed of revolutionary France. And it is here during the revolution of the late XVIII century, Paris was the revolutionary Marseilles battalion, singing on the go most fashionable one hit turbulent times.
Of course, of great importance in the life of Marseilles, and not only business is the sea. It has its own beaches, studded with fine sand. The quiet rocky coves residents and visitors enjoy fishing, sailing, swimming, SCUBA diving. Here, in the restaurants located around the old port, is preparing the famous bouillabaisse - a luxurious ear welded from several species of fish. Here and know a lot about fresh mussels cooked in onion broth supplemented with Provencal herbs.

Lyons

Lyon - the capital of the region of Rhone-Alpes, the second largest city in France and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Located at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone. The population of Lyon metropolitan area has about a half million people.
Lyon was founded by veteran Julius Caesar Munatius Plank in 43 BC. e. and was called Lugdunum, which can be interpreted as "Raven Hill", "hill of light" or hill Celtic god Lugh. City as a Roman colony, appeared on the hill, now called Fourvière. Now there is the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière - Lyon character and you can see the well-preserved Roman theater. In the Middle Ages the city down to the waterfront Sona - there is now a unique Old Lyon - fully preserved quarter of the Renaissance (the largest after Venice), and gradually, over time, the city's neighborhoods occupied all the space around the confluence of the rivers and the nearby hill - the Croix-Rousse.
According to the famous historian Fernand Braudel, Lyon concentrates in itself all collisions French history without visiting this city, you can not feel France. It is the home of the Emperor Claudius and Caracalla, Pierre Waldo and Louise Labe, Madame Recamier and Ampere, Saint-Exupéry and Jean-Michel Jarre. Despite the attempt to revolutionaries in the late XVIII century destroy Lyon, the city has survived and flourished, challenging the bustling Paris.
Lyon is one of the economic centers not only in France but also in Europe as a whole. Especially developed here industries such as petrochemicals, medical equipment manufacturing, information and biotechnology, textiles, originating as early as the Middle Ages. Lyon also - one of the leading centers of the world of science. Catholic University of Lyon is listed in the world rankings over the Sorbonne. Lyon doctors have achieved stunning success in the fight against cancer. In addition, Lyon - recognized cultural center of Europe. It has an international airport - Saint-Exupery. From Paris to Lyon - two hours by high-speed train, the same - from Lyon to Marseille or Geneva. After entering Switzerland in the Schengen Agreement, the role of Lyon as an international commercial and tourist center has been steadily increasing.
For tourists in the capital of the region of Rhone-Alpes all conditions comfortable stay. There are more than a dozen four-star hotels, but hotels with fewer stars will bring tourists really enjoy its comfort.
Lyon attractions are so numerous that to describe them would require a book. In any case, it is to forget the strange stereotype of Lyon as a purely industrial city, is not of interest to tourists. Lyons mention some museums - Museum of Fine Arts, the second in France after the Louvre Museum, the Lumiere brothers, telling of the birth of cinema, the Museum of the car, Henri Malyartra with a unique collection of vintage cars and bikes. For believers, it is important that the facility is located in Lyon pilgrimage - Amphitheater Three Gallium - the place of martyrdom of Christians in 177 year.
I must say that Lyon - a very green city with clean air. Lungs of the city - a huge park "Golden Head", an ideal place for an evening stroll and families. The park - the largest urban park in Europe, there is a zoo and numerous botanical gardens and greenhouses.
In early December, held annually in Lyon Festival of Lights - a real extravaganza of art lighting. Celebration attracted to the city, more and more tourists - last year there were 6 million. In addition, in July and August in the ancient theater of the performing arts festival is held "Furverskie night", and at the end of April in celebration of the Renaissance costume arranged
Lyon - the city in which was born the immortal work of François Rabelais. It is no accident Rabelaisian spirit literally permeates every corner of Lyons. Lyon - a city ranked first in the world in the number of restaurants per square kilometer. And what restaurants! Suffice it to mention a living legend of French gastronomy, Paul Bocuse, after which every two years in Lyon, conducted by the World Festival of Culinary Art "Bocuse d'Or". Lyon streets literally covered with small restaurants - Bouchon, each of which serves traditional cuisine of Lyon - curd "brains weaver 'pie from bird liver, sapper apron - baked roll, spiced with a refreshing bottle of" Cotes du Rhone. " There is a whole street, consisting of one restaurant, by the way, never empty. The unique atmosphere of Bouchon, combined with the luxury of expensive restaurants and kindness of old quarters of the string touches the innermost heart. By the way, here, and the world-renowned Institute of Culinary Arts and Restaurant Business "Vatel," which suggests that it may Lyon without boasting call itself the capital of French cuisine.
Visitors Lyon, of course, will be pleased with shopping opportunities. In the area of the station Part-Dieu opened one of Europe's largest shopping centers, and in the fashionable district of Lyon Presk'il (Peninsula), boutiques major brands. There you can buy fabric and Lyons, especially silk, which has long been famous for Lyon. Outside, Auguste Comte are antique shops and private art galleries, which may also be of interest to the visitor.
We should also mention, more precisely, recall that in Lyon, at Gerland Stadium, Lyon are playing the famous "Olympic" - one of the top football clubs in Europe. The city attracts many artists, theater groups and musical bands, and the stay in Lyon can easily include a concert or a football match.
Given the unique geographical position of the city, it is not surprising that it regularly hosts numerous professional exhibitions, seminars and conferences. City Hall and the Chamber of Commerce of Lyon favorable for the development of international cooperation and willingly help to organize in any event.