Paris has been, is, and will always be one of the places in earth that appeals much to tourists. Paris provides an atmosphere and landscape that is romantic and stimulating to the senses at the same time. This beautiful city is an epitome of everything French.
Paris offers numerous eye candies in the form of its beautifully crafted monuments, windswept avenues, impressive works of art and colorful magic lights. Food enthusiasts also have nothing to be disappointed of, because Paris offers a wide selection of exquisite delicacies, not to be neglected are the seafood, cheese, wine and chocolates. Aside from sightseeing and dining, there are also other fun activities that you can take advantage of while staying there.
One can visit Paris anytime of the year, but it is best to set the tour during spring, wherein the weather is at its best. During summer, the weather is sizzling hot, and many restaurants are closed because the people opt to go to the beach because of the weather. If you wish to have a glimpse of the Parisian cultural presentations, better visit the city during winter. If you wish to come during Bastille Day or as the year approaches its end, it is best to have reservations beforehand because many tourists choose to visit during this season.
Most of Paris’ marvelous sites are located along the river. Although they are situated close to each other, each site has a very different experience to offer than the other. You can enjoy everything French without having to travel much ground. The sight of the two islands, museums and monuments alone will make one wonder with amazement, but there are more places not to be missed during the trip.
The Arc de Triomphe is the world’s largest traffic roundabout. From the top of the platform there, you can delight in the sight of radiating lights coming from the twelve avenues that converge. Every night, a memorial flame is rekindled in honor of the soldiers from the First World War.
The Bateaux Mouches offers a breathtaking sight of Paris’ spectacle of lights, especially during the summer. Being the largest travel boat company in Seine, you can enjoy cruises from Pont de l’Alma that pass through the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower and Île St-Louis.
Probably Paris’ most popular attraction is the Eiffel Tower. What was once the world’s tallest structure is now being used as a platform for antennas for radiotelegraphy. Located at the southeastern portion of the tower is grassland wherein youngsters perform skateboarding. There are many tourists here all year round; elevators to the top always have very long queues. You can also avail of the guided tours that they offer.
Paris is also known for its churches. There are various religious or spiritual sites to visit while here, such as the Basilique du Sacré Cœur, Cathédrale de Notre Dame, and Sainte Chapelle. The Basilique du Sacré Cœur, or the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is situated at the top of Montmartre Hill. It is mainly a gloomy church with the mosaic of an angry Christ as its highlight. Its domes, however, is an invaluable part of Paris’ skyline.
Cathédrale de Notre Dame is the heart of Paris. It showcases French Gothic architecture, evident in its medieval interior. Located in the cathedral’s north tower is a 387-step staircase. Upon reaching the top, you can have a close look at the scary gargoyles and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. Sainte Chapelle is a Gothic church, too; the amazing exteriors of which can be seen across the street of Rue de Lutèce.
Paris also has various museums for different interests. Centre Pompidou is the home of contemporary art and is currently the most visited cultural site in Paris. Besides the exhibitions, there is also a cinema, cybercafé, restaurant and other facilities you can enjoy. One can also choose to Musée Rodin to have a look at the great sculptor’s works of art, including The Thinker.
Musée du Louvre is the world’s greatest art museums, and it is a must to go here if you want to see some of the greatest works of art. There is also an underground museum in Paris, the Catacombes de Paris, wherein visitors can experience walking in a corridor stacked with bones.
There are also a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Whether you are a vegetarian, a noodle fan or one who wants superb French cuisine, there is certainly a right place for you. You can also enjoy other activities such as shopping, skating, bowling, swimming and boating. There are also about seventy hotels in which you can stay, each with its own ambiance.
I love Paris! I feel that I only have just scratched the surface. I love the art nouveau and art deco architecture. I especially love all the different little neighborhoods and their endless supply of cafes, restaurants and food shops. Of course then there are all the art museums. I always go to the Musée d’Orsay to see my favorite paintings. I am a big fan of Corot, Pissarro, Daubigny, Millet, Renoir, Delecroix, Degas and of course Monet. I try to see a couple new museums every time I go. The best deal in the world is the museum pass which gets you into all Paris museums for a teeny sum and you can bypass all the lines!
When I am in Paris one of my very favorite shopping places is the huge Flea market at Porte de Clignancourt
Comment by Linda Paul — March 9, 2007 @ 10:45 am