Discover France’s Size: The Square Miles Travel Guide

France is a country that is rich in culture, heritage, and attractions. From the bustling streets of Paris to the sun-soaked beaches of the French Riviera, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country. But have you ever wondered just how vast France is? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at France’s size and explore the different regions, territories, and protected areas that make up this remarkable country.

France’s Total Area: Land and Water

To understand the size of France, we first need to look at its total area. France covers a total area of 643,801 square kilometers (248,573 square miles). This includes both land and water, as France has a coastline that stretches for over 3,427 kilometers (2,130 miles). In terms of land area alone, France is the largest country in the European Union and the 41st largest country in the world.

To put this into perspective, the land area of France is roughly the same size as the state of Texas in the United States. However, when you include its water area, France is almost three times the size of Texas. Another way to visualize the size of France is to think of it as being slightly smaller than the state of California, which has a total area of 163,696 square miles.

The Largest Regions of Metropolitan France

France is divided into 18 administrative regions, with 13 located in metropolitan France (the part of France that is located in Europe). Each region has its own unique character, culture, and attractions. The largest region in metropolitan France is Nouvelle-Aquitaine, which covers an area of 84,061 square kilometers (32,446 square miles). This region is located in southwest France and is known for its stunning beaches, historic towns, and world-famous vineyards.

The second-largest region in metropolitan France is Occitanie, which covers an area of 72,724 square kilometers (28,079 square miles). This region is located in the south of France and is known for its beautiful countryside, charming villages, and rich history. Other large regions in metropolitan France include Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Grand Est, and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.

Overseas Territories: The Other Side of France

In addition to its mainland territories, France also has several overseas territories that are located around the world. These territories are an integral part of France and have the same status as any other region in the country. The largest of these territories is French Guiana, which covers an area of 83,534 square kilometers (32,253 square miles). This territory is located on the northern coast of South America and is known for its diverse wildlife, pristine rainforests, and French colonial architecture.

Another significant overseas territory is French Polynesia, which covers an area of 4,167 square kilometers (1,609 square miles). This territory is located in the South Pacific and is made up of over 100 islands, each with its own unique culture and attractions. Other notable overseas territories include Réunion, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Mayotte.

France’s Protected Areas: National Parks and Reserves

France is home to several protected areas, including national parks and reserves. These areas are protected to preserve their natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The largest national park in France is the Vanoise National Park, which covers an area of 1,250 square kilometers (483 square miles). This park is located in the French Alps and is home to over 100 species of birds and mammals, including the Alpine ibex and the golden eagle.

Other significant national parks in France include the Cévennes National Park, the Pyrenees National Park, and the Mercantour National Park. France also has several reserves, including the Scandola Nature Reserve, which covers an area of 1,190 hectares (2,944 acres) and is located on the island of Corsica.

Top Travel Destinations by Square Miles

France is a country that is filled with incredible destinations, from historic cities to stunning landscapes. Some of the most popular destinations in France include Paris, the French Riviera, and the Loire Valley. However, there are also many hidden gems that are worth exploring.

One such destination is the Dordogne region, which covers an area of 9,060 square kilometers (3,498 square miles). This region is located in southwest France and is known for its beautiful countryside, charming villages, and prehistoric sites. Another destination that is often overlooked by tourists is the Alsace region, which covers an area of 8,280 square kilometers (3,196 square miles). This region is located in the northeast of France and is known for its picturesque towns, vineyards, and World War II history.

In conclusion, France is a country that is full of surprises. With its diverse regions, overseas territories, and protected areas, there is always something new to discover. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, France’s size is sure to impress and inspire you. So why not start planning your next adventure today?