By far the most visited Shengen country is France, officially known as the French Republic. It is a transcontinental country spanning Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories in the Americas and the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is one of the twenty-seven sovereign states that make up the European Union. The capital and most populous city is Paris, recognized as an important cultural and commercial center. Other major cities include Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Lille, Bordeaux, Montpellier and Nice.

Geography and Population:

Metropolitan France stretches from the Rhine River to the Atlantic Ocean and from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea. It is bordered on the northwest by the English Channel; on the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg; on the east by Germany and Switzerland; on the southeast by Italy, Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea; on the south by Spain and Andorra; and on the west by the Atlantic Ocean. The total area, including overseas dominions, territories and collectivities, is 632,702.3 km².

The population is approximately 68,606,000, with 66,352,000 in metropolitan France and 2,254,000 in the overseas departments. Paris is home to 2,087,577 inhabitants, while its urban area reaches 10,890,751 inhabitants. Language and Currency

The official language is French and the currency is the euro (€).

Form of Government:

France is a partly presidential republic: The President of the Republic is the head of state and is elected by direct suffrage. The prime minister, appointed by the president, acts as head of government. The French Parliament is bicameral, composed of the National Assembly and the Senate.

Economy:

France is the world’s sixth largest economy and a member of the G7, the Eurozone and the Schengen area. It is the world’s leading tourist destination, with 83 million foreign visitors per year, representing 7% of its GDP. It is also home to many of the most important multinational companies, leaders in various segments of industry and the primary sector. fundacionio.com

Culture and Heritage:

France is renowned for its rich cultural, artistic and gastronomic heritage. Paris, known as the “City of Light”, is home to emblematic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The country is also famous for its diversity of regions, each with unique traditions and landscapes, from the vineyards of Bordeaux to the French Riviera.

Current Political Situation:

In late 2024, France faced a significant political crisis. Following a motion of no confidence that ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier, Emmanuel Macron appointed François Bayrou as the new Prime Minister. This instability has raised concerns both domestically and in the European Union, affecting the country’s economy and political landscape.

The political instability in France has also had repercussions on the Spanish and European economy, causing the euro to fall and affecting sectors such as tourism and imports.

What to visit in France:

France is a country full of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Some of the most outstanding places you can visit are:

Paris and its surroundings

Eiffel Tower – The symbol of France and a must-see for any visitor.

Louvre Museum – Home of the Mona Lisa and many other masterpieces.

Notre-Dame Cathedral – Although still under restoration, it remains a Gothic icon.

Avenue des Champs Elysees and Arc de Triomphe – An emblematic walk in the city.

Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica – A bohemian neighborhood with incredible views of Paris.

Palace of Versailles – On the outskirts of Paris, with its gardens and luxurious salons.

France is made up of the following regions:

Normandy

Mont Saint-Michel – A medieval monastery on a magical island.

Landing Beaches – Important World War II historical site.

Loire Valley

Loire Castles – Chambord, Chenonceau and other impressive Renaissance castles.

Alsace

Strasbourg – With its Gothic cathedral and the Petite France district.

Colmar – A fairytale village with typical German shepherd architecture.

Provence and Côte d’Azur

Avignon and its Papal Palace – Former seat of the Popes.

Marseille and the Old Port – A Mediterranean destination with a lot of history.

Nice and the French Riviera – Beaches and glamour on the French Riviera.

Monaco – Although it is an independent country, it is next to France and is famous for its luxury.

The French Alps

Chamonix and Mont Blanc – For mountain and ski lovers.

Burgundy and Lyon

Lyon – Gastronomic city with an incredible old town.

Burgundy Vineyards – For wine lovers.

Bordeaux and the Southwest

Bordeaux and the Pilat Dune – Wine city and the largest dune in Europe.

Corsica

Bonifacio and Ajaccio – Paradise beaches and breathtaking nature.

Conclusion

France is a country of great relevance in Europe and the world, with a rich history, a strong economy and an influential culture. However, it faces political and economic challenges that require attention and effective solutions to maintain its stability and prosperity.