Ile de France guide
The smallest region of France that encircles Paris and is home to many world-famous attractions. If you want a busy holiday then this is the place for you.
Just say the name Paris and it immediately conjures up visions of a romantic city with many sightseeing opportunities such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe but there is much to see and enjoy in the surrounding area too.
There is a splendid château at Fontainebleau set in a vast forest with marked routes for ramblers and mountain bike trails or you can even take a guided tour on horseback through the rolling countryside. The opulence and beauty of the fabulous palace and gardens at Versailles will take your breath away and in complete contrast the modern, fairytale world of Disneyland® Paris is guaranteed fun for the whole family.
Places to visit in Ile de France
Disneyland® Paris
One of Europe's top tourist attractions. There are two separate parks; Disneyland® Park and Walt Disney Studios® plus Disney Village, a great entertainment centre open day and night.
Palace of Versailles
Visit the palace and gardens by day and stay for the evening when there are fountain displays to the accompaniment of fireworks and son et lumière (music and light) shows.
Things to do in Ile de France
Park Astérix
Just 30k from Paris this is France's second largest theme park. You are invited to the 'Happy Party' with a superb mixture of shows and wild rides all put together with Gaulish good humour!
Parc Animalier de Thoiry
Drive through this immense safari park (40k from Paris), a real African reserve, and see the animals in partial freedom.
Bateaux Parisiens
Take a trip along the River Seine and see Paris from a glass covered boat along with a guided commentary (available in English). At night it is particularly magical whilst enjoying a dinner cruise.
France Miniature
Situated in Elancourt, you will see France from a giant's eye view - an impressive array of monuments, famous buildings and villages all depicting everyday life in a much smaller version.
Food and drink
Local specialities
- Meaux mustard
- Brie cheese
- Desserts decorated with crystallized rose petals from Provins
What's on the menu?
Visit the Latin Quarter in Paris to find restaurants offering dishes from all over the world in a great ambiance.
What to drink
The fruity Noyau de Poissy liqueur made from apricots and almonds crushed in cognac. In Paris the choice is endless but best enjoyed on a café terrace whilst people-watching.
