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Paris

The Eiffel Tower

Can you imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower? Which is why topping the list is the iconic wonder of the world. What Burj Khalifa is to Dubai, Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Named after its engineer Gustave Eiffel, this lattice tower is made of wrought iron and welcomes millions of visitors each year. By the end of your vacation in Paris, if you feel overwhelmed to dine with its soothing evening weather and romantic dim light view then climb right to the first or second floor of the monument to book yourself a precious seat in any of the restaurants that populate it. To get the most out of this dinner with the “city of love” share your table with any willing guest and let the conversation unfurl a new chapter in your travel diaries. After a sumptuous meal, climb to the top of the Tower for a breathtaking view of the city. Shout out to all the unreachable faces or delve in your reminiscence of the place, once you reach the top you can only find peace and relaxation. Step outside from your enamoured thoughts about the Tower to pre-book the tickets in advance, because long queues are a common sight at the feet of this man-made wonder.

The Louvre Museum

Paris is a multi-faceted experience if only you wish to explore its different colours. After days of walking through shopping hubs, wide lanes and tasting the delicious marvels made by some of the most creative hands of chefs in various restaurants, if you retain a love for the city’s history or even feel inquisitive to know the source of all the energy and vigorous culture of Paris, turn your steps towards the enthralling Louvre Museum. Housing more than 30,000 works of art, Louvre Museum is home to the iconic Mona Lisa and is termed as the “marvel of museums” – a name justifiably deserved. Entering the Louvre is as much a walk into the history of France as it is into the histories of other civilisations. At once you can get lost in the passages of the Museum amongst the artefacts from Egypt and at another instance feast your eyes at the cultural products of ancient Greek, Rome and the Islamic World. While the world can be traversed in about eighty days (if you take the word of Jules Verne), it is impossible for anyone to tour the entire museum in one day. So, it’s advisable to focus on a particular gallery that appeals the most to you and begin your knowledge seeking expeditions from right there. But don’t walk away too far, especially in the Museum basement which houses the relics from the days of France’s Great Kings.

Notre Dame de Paris

Ever wonder about the religious centre of Paris that powers the faith of its people? Tread no further and visit the Notre Dame de Paris or Our Lady of Paris Cathedral for feeling the vibes of religion amalgamated with Gothic art of the French medieval ages. Standing in the heart of Paris, Notre Dame Cathedral proudly showcases its archaic architecture and is known around the world for its enticing history. There is no place in entire Paris whose elements speak their historical tales like those at this holy Centre. From the decorative doorway to the impressive stained-glass windows, everything about Notre Dame is breathtaking. Even if you are not an ardent admirer of sculptural art, conscientiously observe the different parts of Notre Dame to appreciate their beautiful carving, innovative infrastructural design and awe-inspiring looks. But, in case you are an architect on vacation rest assured that you have hit the jackpot! Feel free to visit the Cathedral for chewing new thoughts in your brain or exercising your knowledge cells on the wonder of the distinctions between the four sides of the Notre Dame.

Disneyland Paris

When travelling with kids, Disneyland Paris should never be missed. Add an American and fantastic taste to your Paris trip by spending a day in one of the most visited theme parks in the whole of Europe - Disneyland. A branch of the original Disneyland in the United States, it is truly a delight for the young ones and adults alike. This place should not be missed if someone is looking to relive childhood memories or meet the heart throbbing Prince and Princesses of the Disney Animated Universe. Located at an easy driving distance of 20 miles from Central Paris, drive into its colourful world for fun-filled activities, thrilling amusement rides, mind refreshing shows, and Disney themed parades which would take you on the life-sized adventures of your favourite animated characters. If you are tired from your hectic travel schedule pull up your visit to Disneyland Paris from the last to the top of the “must visit” list. Dare to keep yourself from gasping at the recreated castle of Sleeping Beauty, only to be bemused by the spell of the evil fairy!

Arc De Triomphe

The French version of India Gate and the Gateway of India, Arc de Triomphe is indeed the “star” site of a Paris holiday. Situated in the western end of Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile is adorned with intricately carved sculptures. But don’t confuse it with its smaller version, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel which is placed near the Western end of the Louvre. This attraction bears names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napoléon’s Empire along with the names of all French generals who served in them on its inner and outer surfaces. But that’s not all. As the centre of the historical thread of the city, the Arc celebrates four sculptural groups – Le Depart de 1792, Le Triomphe de 1810, La Resistance de 1814 and La Paix de 1815 – and six reliefs which denote four benchmark events in French history. Hire a local guide from the Arc facilities and witness how the monument speaks in the voices of over millions of French through its architecture.

Statue of Liberty Paris

If you are under the impression that Statue of Liberty prestigiously presides on the banks of the United States, then be prepared to challenge that fact while you visit the “soon to be globally famous” The French version of Statue of Liberty at the artificial island of Ile aux Cygnes. Gifted to France by the American community as a marker of the anniversary of French Revolution, this quarter length replica of the original French gifted Statue of Liberty in New York is a relatively lesser famous tourist attraction of Paris. Nonetheless, visit this marker for enjoying a heart taking ride atop the Pont de Grenelle or Pont de Bir-Hankeim, if not stir your republican spirits. Don’t forget - this priceless landmark takes no costs for admission and features as a remarkable location in National Treasure: Book of Secrets – so bide your vacation time for this architectural beauty.

Bird’s Eye View of the City

“The City of Lights” or La Ville Lumiere Paris cannot be fully understood until it is observed in its entirety. Known for its beauty and architecture, many Paris attractions offer a bird’s eye view of the city. Whether from the Eiffel Tower or Arc De Triomphe, the choice is yours. Standing at either of these great man-made constructions you can see the minute tops of other Paris attractions, each of which marks a particular period in the history of the city. But don’t think your money and time is only worth that much. Looking at the cityscape with binoculars is an excellent way to appreciate its overall city design – something that is not possible while walking through its enmeshed streets.

Paris Catacombs

Experience the dark side of the love capital by visiting the Paris Catacombs. Home to the remains of more than six million French, this dark ossuary can fright and delight you at the same time. Take up a night tour in the halls of this commemorative structure for feeling the dread of the burden of civilisation and development. Constructed on the routes of quarries of Paris, the Catacombs may as well send chills down your spine with the echoing whispers. But, if you are afraid of entering alone, wait for the latest concerts in its premises and dance to the beats of the eeriest place in entire France. Just be sure of purchasing the tickets well in advance to cut the queue.

Take a River Cruise

Carry your sea sickness curing tablets and plenty of clothes before you leave because what can be better than sipping sparkling wine and witnessing the beauty of Paris on a cruise? The tables on the deck accompanied by a band carve the perfect setting to enjoy luxury at its best. Whether you want to opt for a day cruise, bathing in the sunset colours or glittering amongst the lights at a nighttime cruise, the choice is yours – but the river boating trip is sure to be a notable experience regardless of the time you plan to undertake it.

Plan a Picnic

You don’t need to plan a tightly packed trip if you wish to have a taste of the history, culture and fashion of Paris. A mere seating at some of its public spots is enough to give you a glimpse of its exquisite nature. To soak in the vibe of the city plan a picnic to any of its popular spots including the Canal Saint-Martin, Champ de Mars (erstwhile called as Eiffel Tower), Esplanade des Invalides and Parcs des Buttes-Chaumont and de la Villette. When on vacation to Europe, keep a day free to plan a picnic to any of these spots. Carry your favourite French street food and drinks along with a pair of sheets to while away your day looking at the marvels of French civilization and biting on foodie’s delicacies. Now, there couldn’t be a more relaxing way of enjoying Paris!

Evening Activities around River Seine

The commercial waterway of Paris, Seine River hosts a desirable trip for a number of activities. If the tickling breezes of the river, coming atop its bridges like Pont Alexandre III and Pont Neuf in Paris seems to have stopped interesting you, then take a motorboat expedition of the cuts and corners of the river. Appreciate the Notre Dame like never before or simply see the city of Paris as it looks from offshores. If time runs in your favour, hitch a ride on the cheap excursion boats to drive on the rippling waters of Paris’ own Rive Droite and Rive Gauche.

Sleepover at the Shakespeare Book and Company

Can there be “A Midnight in Paris” without the Shakespeare (Book) Company? Definitely not! And likewise, any trip to Paris is incomplete without a peaceful stay at one of the most simply sophisticated places of all that is, the Shakespeare Book and Company. Run to this place for collecting premature autographs from writers who are yet to shoot to fame or simply soothe your literary instincts by spending a good time between oldest copies of bestseller books. Don’t shy away from cuddling into the rented beds available at the shop to spend a starry night amongst the best literary geniuses of your time.

Weather

Seated on the Western Front of Europe, France and by extension, Paris experiences a warm and wet climate throughout the year. Such welcoming weather makes it a hot choice for tourists all over the year. Yet, June to August and September to October is the best time to visit Paris. The summer spring months from April to June are also the perfect time for planning a vacation to Paris, especially when you intend to spend most of your vacation time on the roads or pavements of the city. For someone on a budget, travelling during the off-peak season is highly recommended as the hotel rates and attractions’ tickets are available at slashed prices. However, no matter when you visit, you are bound to experience some crowd.

Culture

The popular name of Paris as the “City of Art” finds its reason in the vibrant culture of the country which is hoisted in its cultural products. The French are very proud when it comes to their culture, food, music and history. Known throughout the world for its enchanting history and culinary arts, Paris is an excellent amalgamation of the old and new world. People from all over the world visit Paris to witness the outgoing and ever young culture of this city melting into architecture and diverse nightclubs. On your first visit to this fascinating city, avoid slipping into dominant art forms and do not miss the propping new form of arts like photography, theatre and culinary servings. French population is a heterogeneous mix of different ethnicities, though the majority of people identify themselves as Roman Catholics. You can also find Catholics, Muslims, Protestants and Jewish individuals during your stay and if your luck hasn’t run out, you may be able to attend some of their ritualistic festivities as well. The more that is said about French cuisine, the lesser it seems. However, three ingredients that sum up a typical French dish are delicious wine, crispy bread and smoky vegetables or meat. Take your time to pick your meal from the numerous seasonal delicacies and regional dishes that Paris restaurants offer for your tongues.

Language

Being the capital of France, the official language of Paris, by law, is stipulated as French. However, English is widely understood and spoken around the city for a number of European English-speaking tourists populate the city throughout the year. Yet, in case you are fluent in Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish or Italian do not worry for you would easily find a companion in the multi-lingual crowd of the Capital. Also, there are a lot of expatriates who speak Chinese, German, Celtic languages in addition to others.

Take a Quiz

Avoid keeping Metro Tickets near Metal or Coins

The first rule for enjoying a vacation in Paris is that you must never carry the baggage of your constitutional city rules because this city of fun and fashion is nothing like you might ever have seen. From the public transport to the food chains, the city boasts of innovations which have been adopted to make public transit more accessible. Take for example the subway system which issues tickets equipped with a sensitive magnetic strip (much like a debit card) that holds information about the trip it validates. For any common traveller unacquainted with the nuances of the same, handling the mere subway tickets can become a menace since the magnetic strip in subway tickets can become demagnetised after encountering metal. So, if you are new to the card-shaped subway tickets of metro networks, it would be better to observe the people while they’re using it and safeguard it from all objects.

Don’t Visit the Museums on Monday or Tuesday

If you are familiar with Monday morning blues, then be prepared to witness them take over your list of “Must-visit places in Paris” during the first two days of your week. It is utterly unique to Paris that it closes the doors of its artistic museums to all travellers and academicians right after the weekend. In fact, you may observe that most of the local monuments are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays – regardless of their expected footfall and stature. So, before you hop on in a bus or subway, be sure of checking the opening and closing times of the monument or museum you are planning to visit. However, in case you find yourself in the midst of these unique, extended Monday morning blues do gear up to have a walk around the city for even a mere stroll in its architecturally sound lanes, is sure to push up your spirits.

Don’t Shop from Souvenir Shops

Indeed, how can a travel experience become memorable, unless it is remarked by the most charming set of souvenirs? But going on a souvenir hunt at Paris may become a disaster rather than a pleasant day if you want to find your perfect Paris gift at the glass windowed, bright shops which are common amongst the main streets of the city. While they have been placed at areas with maximum tourist density for the convenience of the latter, they dissuade from being comfortable to the tight and light traveller pockets. So, if you wish to take back a bag full of memories from your sojourn in Paris, keep away from the flashy souvenir shops. They are expensive and often end up burning a hole in your budget. Instead, ask the friendly locals about flea markets to shop your heart out, where classy goods are available at affordable prices and your negotiation skills can come in handy for getting the most at lesser amounts of cash.

Don’t Dress Like a Tourist

One of the things to avoid when in Paris is not looking like a tourist. There is no debating that Paris is a pot of varied cultures, into which every distinct individual pours a portion of his/her part of the world. But, do not use that understanding of the city to consider packing your traditional or native dresses for the tour. Even though no authority at the city can legally stop you from using its lanes as a demonstration ramp for your culture, the googly-eyed shopkeepers at the city’s eateries, gift shops and tourist places are sure to use your inexperience. Needless to say, for a traveller in the garb of uncommon attire, items across markets tend to be at teeth biting rate while they might not be so for you if you assimilate in the city’s crowds ingeniously. Dress as much like a local as you can to grab great bargains when shopping at any of the flea markets or savouring mouth-watering dishes from any of the local eateries. Even when attire doesn’t guarantee you cheaper expenses, it would definitely take you one step closer to feeling at home in Paris.

Le Baratin

One of the best places to savour authentic Parisian food is at Le Baratin. Chef Raquel Carena keeps changing the menu constantly. From mackerel tartare to tuna steak with black cherries and rabbit and mushroom ragout with red-wine sauce, this Argentine-born self-taught chef loves experimenting when it comes to satisfying the palate.

Steak at La Table d'Hotes de Hugo Desnoyer

This one place is for both steak lovers and travellers with enthusiasm for international cuisines. The texture, intense mineral-rich and herbaceous flavour of steak are enough to leave the guests craving for more. Head to this incredible place with a wonderful setting to satisfy both your craving for good food and a perfect ambience.

Restaurant L’ Orangeries

Opened in the summer of 2016, this restaurant in the famed “Four Seasons Restaurant” is already topping the charts in all the grade lists of fine Paris restaurants. The chic yet glamorous setting of the eatery attracts hundreds of food connoisseurs travelling to Paris. Serving excellent seafood, this restaurant is a must visit to treat the taste buds.

Marché Des Enfants Rouges

From Lebanese Sandwiches to Caribbean Dishes, Marché Des Enfants Rouges is an all-year-round hotspot for the food lovers. This area houses several stalls that sell everything from bento boxes to couscous. So, if you are someone who loves experimenting with their palate, this is the right place to be.

Sushi B Paris

Serving authentic Japanese Cuisine, this place will surely leave you surprised. The service, austere Japanese atmosphere and the mouthwatering Japanese food make this place a must visit even for those who haven’t tried sushi in their life. A must try here include topinambour with crab sauce, grilled tuna and dashi with turbot.

Allard

Taste the beauty and fine flavours of classic Paris gourmet at the Allard, which now remains as last of the many restaurants offering dishes from the very boulevards of French history. Here, you taste food from all your senses – appetizing through visual appeal, alluring through delicious smoky vapours and of course, tingling the taste buds through an elaborate eating meal.

Miznon

Remember the dish of contention in Disney’s Ratatouille? Well, now you know where you can find it in its best tastes in all of Paris! Miznon is not limited to just that. Here you can find Israeli food with a French finesse, usually accompanied by a plump, soft and juicy pita. In the rare chance that you are a vegetarian going out on a limb with French menus, freely order strange sounding dishes at this eatery for they offer tons of vegetarian options. Le 52 The strategic spot for local gossip and even banking experts, the eateries of Le 52 are spread out across France and not just about serving gorgeous cuisine. You can find the aesthetics of neo-brassiere interior decorations, invented by Charles Compagnon, alongside your modern French meal at this place dedicated to giving a good time to its diners. Septime Changes are the currency of life, and the only Parisian restaurant following the selfsame motto is le Septime, where exquisite and creative, plant or vegetable-focused dishes are changed every two weeks. Despite the high quality of food offered here, you may not find a trace of fine dining pomp and chef arrogance at this humbling place. Delve into its dishes for their mouth-watering flavours and bursting textures. L’Ami Jean This relatively modern joint in Paris experiments with the essential requirements of restaurants by offering light ambience, hearty food, tongue licking food and fine dining inspired presentation – at lower prices. Its sought out dishes like Parmesan soup with cabbage and bonito flakes are stark examples of high flavours in adventurous spaces.