Discovering France in 2020
France has so much to offer, from fantastic cuisine, to world-renowned museums, a multitude of historical sites, small villages, and much more. France has a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that makes it one of the most distinct and visited countries in the world.
That might make it seem a bit familiar, but here are 4 reasons to visit France in 2020:
The Must-do: Paris
No trip to France is complete without a visit to the City of Light! A great way to explore is to enjoy the hop on hop off bus. In Paris, there are multiple routes, so it’s best to arrive with some idea of the great sights, museums, and icons you want to see. The bus helps navigate a large city, taking passengers to renowned Parisian favourites like Sacre Coeur, Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre. Until February 24, 2020, the Louvre will feature a new exhibition of works by the great Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci – not to be missed if you’re fascinated by the era’s greatest mind. Art enthusiasts will also want to check out the newly opened Atelier Des Lumieres, a uniquely immersive multimedia exhibition space. In 2020, it showcases the great masterpieces of Monet, Renoir and Chagall.
French Food Festivals
From chocolatiers to coquilles de Saint Jacques (scallops), wine, cheese, oysters, traditional baguettes and more tasty delights. France is a foodie’s favourite. Probably the most famous festival in Paris is the Taste of Paris, a 4-day event held in May. It features workshops, recipes, performances and tastings. In 2020, it will be held in the iconic Grand Palais – a historic monument and an architectural treat. Other famous food festivals are The Truffle Festival in Sarlat in January, Les Habits de Lumiere in Epernay in December (for champagne lovers) and the Fete de la Crevette in Honfleur in October for seafood aficionados.
Be a part of something historic
For the first time in over 200 years, the Hotel de la Marine in Paris will open its doors to the public for an interactive exhibition. Located in the historic Place de la Concorde, the spot where the guillotine stood during the French Revolution. The exhibition will give its visitors a sense of France’s rich history since the 18th century and its influence in today’s society. Be prepared for an interactive experience including incredible visuals while witnessing important historic events from the execution of King Louis XVI to the arrival of the obelisk. This exhibition starts in January.
The French Connection
Only 3 hours away from Paris, lies the northern region of Normandy. Every year, hundreds of visitors flock here, drawn by its impressionist art, wonderful food and drink cycling routes, cider, medieval sights, and quaint French cities and towns. However, this region is best discovered by visiting the historic sites and landing beaches where Allied forces participated in the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation during the Second World War. Even if you do not have familial roots to WWII, once you arrive in this region, the pride and camaraderie here is undeniable. If your interests run more to the artistic side, 2020 will see the very first Normandy Impressionist Festival take place from April to September. Get your Monet, Gauguin and Pissarro on in Normandy next year!
Check out some featured Goway programs for France:
Paris and Normandy River Cruise
Jewels of South West France: Bordeaux to Bordeaux
