The Benefits of a Short Break in France

Every year thousands of Brits decide to shun the national hobby of visiting the local D.I.Y. store on a bank holiday or long weekend and opt for a well earned break instead. Many people choose to stay in this country, but if you are prepared to hop over the Channel you can transport yourself into another world entirely – and enjoy the many delights the City of Light has to offer.

As France’s capital city, Paris is chock full of ways to spend long weekends away from day to day life in Britain, whatever your age and whether or not you take the family with you. There are the classic not to be missed sights of course, including the Eiffel Tower – offering the best panoramic view of Paris should you have the stomach to make it to the top – the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe (or triumphal arch) and the famous Champs Elysees. But if you only visit the well known locations you would be missing out on a feast of other possibilities which fit perfectly into any relaxing sightseeing weekend away.

If the purpose of your trip is to have a short break away to relax and unwind, then a river trip along the Seine is worth taking time over - simply for the alternative views of Paris that it affords. Whether by day or by night, the stunning Parisian architecture – untouched by the World Wars – won’t fail to impress.

Paris holds a real attraction for Britons simply because it is so close by. Weekend breaks take you over a stretch of the English Channel that is only some twenty one miles wide, and into a country with very different views, routines and habits to our own. Paris itself, although much smaller than London, makes up for its lack of size by packing lots of activities and sights into its smaller area.

What’s more, no matter where in Britain you live, you’ll find it easy to hop on a Eurostar train, catch a flight into the capital or even drive over and make use of your car while you’re there. Be warned though – if you want to see the Arc de Triomphe by car, you won’t be insured for attempting to negotiate the huge Place Charles de Gaulle roundabout which surrounds it. If you are an even slightly nervous driver, you’d be better off admiring the arch from a distance – on foot.

If it’s a relaxing stroll you’re after, you can make sure you don’t miss out on some of the less well known sights by trying out a walking tour. Some of these are designed especially with children in mind, so it’s worth exploring the possibilities each tour has to offer before booking.

In short, Paris offers a unique snapshot of French life, and it is likely to remain a popular destination for a short weekend break for the foreseeable future.