From Claude Monet’s water lilies to Edgar Degas’ ballerina statue, Impressionism remains a hallmark movement in French art history. France produced a laundry list of Impressionist artists: Monet, Degas, Morisot, Manet, Pissarro, and beyond. Although the movement wasn’t embraced at first, Impressionism remains a fan favorite for its bright colors and subject matter. And Paris is a playground when it comes to Impressionist art. We’re sharing some of the top names in the Impressionist movement as well as where you can see their masterpieces in France.
Category : Paris
5 French Beauty Brands to Know (And Love!)
The aroma of baguettes, history-laden monuments, and haute couture in the shop windows. There are some things that you’re sure to encounter during your trip to France. But one that you might not anticipate – but certainly shouldn’t overlook – is a small green cross. This seemingly insignificant symbol represents a pharmacy. Most tourists just move along with their itinerary or make a pit stop for over-the-counter medicine for a cough. But for tourists and locals alike, French pharmacies are a destination in and of themselves. Much more than just remedies for health problems, French pharmacies offer an extensive range of cosmetics and beauty products. Here’s a look at the French beauty scene that has dominated the global market as well as several French beauty brands to know.
The Post-Impressionist’s Guide to France
From van Gogh’s “Starry Night” to Cézanne’s “Bathers,” the Post-Impressionist movement is all but forgotten. And France played a pivotal role not only in producing some of the most well-known artists from this movement but also inspiring creatives across the globe. Whether in Paris or Provence, Post-Impressionist art aficionados will find their bonheur all throughout France. You may not know Post-Impressionism by name, but you certainly have heard of some of its main players: Paul Cézanne, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gaugin and Georges Seurat. Here’s a brief guide to the Post-Impressionist movement in France as well as where you can see some of its key pieces today.
A Brief Guide to the French Revolutions
From the renowned musical Les Misérables to the French Revolution-inspired Coldplay Viva la Vida album, French history in pop culture is ubiquitous. Even the simple phrase of “let them eat cake” immediately brings to mind Marie Antoinette, her elaborate wigs and the French Revolution. It’s true that these various revolution references are sprinkled throughout pop culture, but there wasn’t just one French Revolution. We’re sharing a brief history of the different major French Revolutions as well as the best activities inspired by these revolutions and Les Mis.
Retracing the Steps of the French Resistance
With centuries, if not millennia, of history, France is full of stories to experience firsthand. Whether you’re interested in France during the medieval period or the Roman Empire, visitors can trace the steps of these past periods. For history buffs interested in World War II and notably the French Resistance, France has an abundance of sites and stories to explore even today. Although revisiting this period may prove to be heavy, there are glimmers of hope with the stories of the brave people who resisted. And these legacies can still be discovered today. Highlighting different figures of this period, we’ve traced the steps of the French Resistance and are sharing the historical sites you can visit today.
Your Guide to Paris’ 16th Arrondissement
With 20 arrondissements in Paris, there’s a flavor for every traveler. Paris landmarks are sprinkled across the city’s different boroughs. Admire a slew of the Louvre’s masterpieces in the 1st arrondissement; snap a selfie with the Eiffel Tower in the 7th. Marvel at the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in the 4th arrondissement; wander the ruelles of Montmartre in the 18th. At first glance, the 16th arrondissement may attract fewer tourists, but this chic, authentic neighborhood is a must for your next trip to Paris. Although it’s not home to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, it’s conveniently located and offers a true look at Parisian life. From museums to restaurants, here’s your guide to Paris’ 16th arrondissement.
2025 France Bucket List by Region
For France, 2024 was full of fanfare. From hosting the Olympic Games across the country and the reopening of Notre Dame, last year proved to be eventful. This year may be a bit calmer than last year, but in 2025, France has a wide variety of events and activities that are sure to please. Perhaps you already have the classics on your France itinerary such as visiting the Eiffel Tower or trying French cheese. But don’t overlook the unique opportunities for your trip to France this year. From the best art exhibitions to a Loire Valley garden festival, we’re rounding up our favorite events set to take place this year. Here’s our 2025 France Bucket List by region.
The Count of Monte Cristo-Inspired Guide to France
From its paintings to idyllic architecture, sculptures to crafted pastries, France is known for its wealth of art. And France’s legacy on the literary world is widespread: Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, Marguerite Duras. And one author who made his mark on his era – and far beyond – is Alexandre Dumas. You may not recognize his name, but you’re sure to know some of his biggest titles: The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo. Arguably one of Dumas’ most famous works, the latter title recounts the story of Edmond Dantès: his wrongful accusation, betrayal and subsequent quest for justice. And in 2024, his story was made into a movie once again and this time featuring Pierre Niney. Namely in Provence, the film shows many destinations in France. From Château d’If to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, we’re sharing our Count of Monte Cristo-inspired itinerary to France.
Your Deep-Dive Guide to the Latin Quarter in Paris
With 20 arrondissements, or boroughs, Paris abounds with different neighborhoods to explore. From the glamorous Champs-Elysées to the alternative Montmartre neighborhood, France’s capital has a flavor for each and every visitor. But one neighborhood remains a must, no matter your itinerary or interest. Hailing as one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, the Latin Quarter will charm you with its cobblestone streets and millennia of history. And just a stone’s throw away from this historic neighborhood stands the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, which reopens its doors later this year. Not only can you discover the treasures on the inside of the cathedral but also the marvels surrounding it. We’re sharing our deep-dive guide to the Latin Quarter in Paris as well as the best activities in this neighborhood near Notre Dame.
Your Perfect Week Itinerary to Paris
There’s no one way to visit Paris; the city is timeless yet ever changing. Although many claim to have the perfect Paris week itinerary, the reality is that there isn’t just one. And depending on if it’s your first time to Paris or if you prefer gastronomic experiences to historical visits, the itinerary will vary. Instead of a day-by-day experience, we’re rounding up Paris by theme and preference: first time, food, shopping, history and art. At French Side Travel, we’re ready to help you customize your trip in order to truly make it the perfect week itinerary to Paris.