The Centre has six departments (Eure-et-Loir, Loiret, Loir-et-Cher, Indre, Indre-et-Loire and the Cher), which makes one of the largest regions in France in terms of surface area; but it has one of the least dense and oldest populations.

The Loire river flows through this peaceful region, which is flourishing enough in the north, but has fewer and fewer inhabitants in the south. Farming (it is the biggest French region for cereal production) is the main economic activity, but there are also many industrial sectors.

Chartres Cathedral, Beauce (Centre region)

Often called the "garden of France", the Loire Valley attracts several million tourists every year. They are lured there by the beauty of Chartres Cathedral and splendid châteaux like Chambord and Chenonceaux.