10 cities hosting the UEFA EURO 2016
The European Championship will be held in France between 10 June and 10 July. From Paris to Marseille, the matches will take place in 10 cities overall. Take a look at what they have to offer.
Saint-Denis
The first match takes place at the Stade de France in the Saint-Denis district of Paris. The 2016 European Championship trophy is placed in front of the Basilica of St Denis. Completed in 1144, it is considered the first Gothic church. Marie Antoinette is among the monarchs buried there.
Lens
A diamond in the rough, this city in northern France has been reinventing itself in recent years. The Louvre-Lens art museum was inaugurated in 2012 and is built on the site of an old coal mine. The city’s abandoned industrial complexes (pictured) add to its unique character by acknowledging its past.
Bordeaux
Called the "Pearl of Aquitaine", Bordeaux is renowned for its beauty and its wine (two thirds of French wine comes from this southwest region of France). The "Miroir d’eau" (mirror of water) is at the heart of the city, reflecting the Place de la Bourse - twice the beauty.
Marseille
Marseille has an energetic vibe. Despite being France’s second largest city, it has avoided becoming a tourist trap and boasts both a maritime and an urban feel. Pictured is the stunning Cathédrale de la Major.
Paris
Anyone visiting the French capital will encounter the most renowned landmarks, but explorers can make many surprising discoveries beyond the Eiffel Tower. From the city’s iconic sites to contemporary art in front of the Centre Pompidou (pictured), Paris has something for everyone.
Nice
The clear waters, brilliant sunlight and pebbly beaches of Nice have drawn tourists for centuries. Inspiration for artists like Chagall and Matisse, this city on the French Riviera holds many treasures. From its fish markets to the Chagall museum’s astounding collection, Nice lives up to its name "Nice la belle".
Lille
Once a center of mining, Lille is a university city now known for its lively character and cuisine. The Alsatian architecture provides a charming backdrop for a daytime stroll.
Toulouse
Located on the River Garonne, Toulouse is called the "Pink City" due to the color of its terracotta brick architecture. Home to the largest space center in Europe, Toulouse Space Center, the city’s origins go back to at least the eighth century BC. Pictured is the view over the magnificent Place du Capitole.
Lyon
Situated between the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon has a relaxing vibe. Famous for its wine and cuisine, L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges (pictured) is one of the city’s Michelin star restaurants. Between the old city, the boulevards lined with shops, and the unassuming atmosphere, there is hardly any place more French.
Saint-Etienne
Football is huge in Saint-Etienne. But this city in the Loire valley has many other surprising delights. Its specialty is chocolate, and among the city’s fine examples of modern architecture is the Cité du Design (pictured).