Culture

Castles can be found throughout Europe. But only France has such a wealth and variety. In this, the first of our two part look at French châteaux we peer over the battlements of some of the most illustrious, attention-seeking, headlining grabbing châteaux.

In January 2016, the Assemblée Nationale of France adopted 13 new administrative regions, down from the previous 22. The Parliament's aim was to reduce costs and simplify bureaucracy.

Occupying a neat triangle of north east Spain, Catalonia holds a unique place within Europe. A region of contrasts, it...

Well known for its architecture, France boasts some amazing bridges, here we've picked 9 of our favourites...

With many of Spain's ancient cities built by Romans and Muslims, the ruins impress even today as a testament to their ingenuity. Each city tells a story of struggle, hope and resilience as the population has weathered many upheavals in its history.

During Napoleon lll's rule in the mid to late 1800s, France colonised several overseas territories, and with Britain restoring ownership of some territories to France, Napoleon doubled the size of his empire.

I well remember visiting the Dordogne (as we British usually refer to it) for the first time and feeling...

Standing at the counter of a French boulangerie or patisserie can be a daunting affair. Confronted by a dizzying array of tempting treats and baked delights, it can be hard to make a choice, let alone know what you are asking for.

Hosting on behalf of war-torn Ukraine, Liverpool's musical heritage makes it the perfect location to host Europe's largest singing competition.

France has been shaped over the centuries by countless events. Some well documented, others less immediately obvious. But all played a part in creating a France that we know and love today.

The flea market originates in the marché aux puces, where the goods on offer were literally the kind of shabby items you could expect to find infested with fleas.

There is an awful lot more to French art than Monet’s lilies. And for that matter, the daubings of some Neolithic would-be artist who decided 17,000 years ago that the caves of Les Eyzies in the Dordogne needed a little brightening up with a lick of paint.

With over 213,000 square miles, France is one of the largest countries in Europe with a rich and varied history. France has played a significant role in many areas, including art, literature, fashion and architecture.

A name that conjures up a thousand images, and no doubt a thousand misrepresentations.

In common with many countries, France’s identity is framed by its rich cultural heritage. The gorgeous landscapes, majestic coastline, ancient towns and mighty rivers all play a part.

Shortly before World War Two, the French car manufacturer Citroen hit gold when it introduced the 2CV. As the clouds of war gathered, this revolutionary car did not have the chance to capitalise on its launch, but in time, it went on to secure its place as one of the most significant vehicles ever produced.

Europe is home to five of the top-ten smallest countries in the world, and if you want to explore these micro-nations, then camping could be the perfect way to visit.

Ahh Europe... birthplace to some of the world's most famous composers, musicians and songwriters, and home to a great selection of intimate music bars, awesome underground scenes, world-famous clubs, live music venues and stunning opera houses.

France has a great wealth of world-class tourist attractions. But sometimes, whether you've somehow managed to see them all, or just a handful, you want something more quirky. You've visited Pont du Gard, the Caves of Lascaux, Père Lachaise Cemetery and Monet's Gardens; what now?

Camping has always been a popular way to visit France, and with the 2023 Rugby World Cup taking place just over the English Channel, we're expecting bumper bookings on many campsites throughout this rugby-crazy country.