This column revisits some of Rick’s favorite places over the past two decades. You can email Rick at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.) (c)2023 Rick Steves.

Even with these changes, the essence of France and Spain endures — a heady mix of modern and traditional that is ready to intoxicate curious travelers in 2012 and beyond.

Rick Steves, one of America's favorite travel mentors, claims France is Europe's most exciting country to explore. With world-class dining, incredible history, and elite art to enjoy, there's no ...

Among his top picks is the Château de Commarque, located near the medieval village of Sarlat-la-Canéda in France's Dordogne region. Founded in the 12th century and abandoned around 500 years ...

The city’s history dates back to well before when the Romans came to town, but it was the Catholic Church that put Avignon on the map. In 1309, a French pope was elected (Pope Clement V).

And in France's sunny south, the ancient Roman sights of Provence will also be easier to enjoy in 2016. In Avignon, a direct express bus now goes to Vaison-la-Romaine, a picturesque town chock ...

When I told friends I'd witness geese being force-fed -- the traditional way they fatten the livers to make foie gras, the prized delicacy in France's Dordogne region -- many expressed disgust.

Rick Steves writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.

Rick Steves’ Europe: Bubbly, historic Reims: The toast of France’s Champagne country Imagine that happy day around 1700 when the monk Dom Pérignon, after much fiddling with the double ...