Sites
 
10
Transport
 
8
Hospitality
 
8
Value
 
7
Personal
 
10
8.8
Paris

Paris
Paris is the world's favourite place to visit. Every year more than 30 million people explore the cities sites from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral making this the most popular tourist destination in the world. More than just a tourist hot spot, Paris is one of the world's leading business and cultural centres and has been an important settlement of Western civilization for more than two millennial. Paris has it all, grand and beautiful buildings from its imperial past, new and innovative structures that form its business district, a massive museum and art gallery, iconic landmarks, fantastic cuisine, a comprehensive transport network and a distinctly French attitude. There is so much to do in this beautiful city that it can be overwhelming, so plan to stay for at least a few days. Expect it to be expensive especially for accommodation but sharing a bottle of fine French wine at night under the Eiffel Tower is just one of the things that will make your time unforgettable.

Saint Malo

St. Malo
Saint Malo is a stunning walled port city in the Brittany region of northwestern France. The old town has immaculate and imposing city walls that were rebuilt to their former glory after being destroyed in WW2. The city is surrounded by one of the finest golden sand beaches in all of France, rivalling anything on the Mediterranean. The tides around Saint Malo are famously treacherous, small little out lying islands which have old forts and keeps are accessible during low tide but can become cut off within minutes as the tides roll in at almost running speed. Staying in the walled old town, walking its walls, and dining at the many excellent restaurants is a great way to experience a different sort of coastal France. Saint Malo has accommodation and eating places to suit any budget, it is also a key ferry terminal for crossing the English Channel.

Mont St Michel

Mont St. Michel
Mont St Michel is a breathtaking ancient monastery perched on an isolated rocky tidal island in the Normandy region of France. This magical little island has only 30 full time residents but hosts more than 3.5 million people annually. Mont St Michel has been an important pilgrimage centre since 708 AD and through the centuries it was one of the top 4 pilgrimage sites in Christianity. During the day the small one street village becomes packed with visitors who run the gauntlet up to the monastery through tourist stalls and restaurants. By night the island empties and a peaceful silence descends over the island giving the narrow alleys and ramparts a serene and mystical quality. This fascinating little island deserves more than just a quick stopover to appreciate all it has to offer. Regardless of your time frame don't miss the opportunity to gaze upon the Mont as it punctuates an otherwise flat and mundane landscape.

Monaco

Monaco
Monaco is a beautiful and exceptionally wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean. Though not actually a part of France, Monaco is the world's smallest French speaking country and a place where million dollar yachts and sleek sports cars are the norm. This principality is a tax haven for the wealthy and most of the people living in its 485 acres are millionaires from other countries. Due to this it is one of the most expensive and sought after places for property on the planet. This little city is perfect for a day trip from the French city of Nice. You can wander the immaculate streets where the Formula 1 holds its most prestigious race, stand dumb founded in the shadow of yachts that are bigger than some buildings and enjoy the vista views from the Rock of Monaco, the site of an early palace and a central viewing point within the city. Spending more than a day in Monaco could do some damage to your budget but make sure you allocate for a stop over to see how rich and famous live.