Jessica Subrow
The open waters of the Seine and the tree-lined banks of the river create a garden-like effect in Paris. Thousands of trees also line the streets and numerous public parks dot the city. In the central city, the most popular parks are found on lands once reserved for kings. However, there is something for every traveler’s taste in Paris. Here are five things you must see while in Paris:
La Tour Eiffel
Hotel de la Tour Eiffel in central Paris is located a short walk from the famous Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees. With a 24 hour reception and free Wi-Fi, this Paris hotel offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price. Guests can also make use of the hotel’s concierge services and luggage storage facilities. The hotel is also very well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
The tower is the focal point of many Paris celebrations, including Bastille Day and New Year’s Eve. The Eiffel Tower is located at the intersection of the Pont d’Iena and quai Branly. A guided tour of the tower includes a wine tasting. Visitors are able to sample local wines and enjoy panoramic views of the city. While the tower has been the centre of attraction in Paris for over a century, global health and safety concerns have forced the closure of some businesses.
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is a well-known landmark that stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle. This area was once called Place de l’Étoile. In the old days, this area had twelve avenues that all converge in a star. When you visit Paris, you must not miss the Arc de Triomphe.
The base of the Arc de Triomphe is adorned with elaborate allegorical sculptures, including one by Francois Rude that depicts the iconic French woman, Marianne. Inside, the walls feature the names of 500 French soldiers who died in Napoleonic wars. The ashes of Napoleon I are also re-lit each night at 6:30pm. The Arc de Triomphe was completed in 1811.
Place de la Concorde
You may have been to the famous Eiffel Tower, but have you visited the Place de la Concorde in Paris? If you have, you may be interested in learning more about this public square. Built in an octagon, the place features eight statues in each corner. Each of them represents a different city in France. Take a moment to admire each one and enjoy the different atmospheres of Paris. The Place de la Concorde is a must-see when in Paris!
The Place de la Concorde in Paris was originally called Place Louis XV. It was designed by architect Jacques-Ange Gabriel in 1757, although the original name was Place Louis XV. The square featured an equestrian statue of King Louis XV. In the mid-18th century, it was renamed Place de la Concorde, and was a site of guillotine executions.
Conciergerie
Located west of the Île de la Cité, below the Palais de Justice, the Conciergerie is a former courthouse and prison. Once a royal palace, the Conciergerie consists of two large medieval halls. Both halls have a different purpose, and the former royal palace also had two chapels, including Sainte-Chapelle. These halls were later converted into restaurants and public halls.
The rooms in the Conciergerie were used as cells for political prisoners and criminals. Prisoners of high social standing were often assigned private cells with desks and writing materials. Prisoners of lower social status were confined to tiny cells where rats and urine thrived. Nevertheless, the Conciergerie was considered a lucrative lodging. In fact, during the French Revolution, over 2,500 people were tried and executed here.
Place Saint-Honoré
Place Saint-Honore is a square in Aix-en-Provence, France. It is located near Geox and Fontaine Marcello Drutel. Using public transit to get to this Parisian attraction is easy with Moovit, a free transit app with maps and live directions. The map shows you the nearest stop as well as the estimated time it will take to get to Place Saint-Honore.
Rue Saint-Honore is a 2km long street that features stunning architecture. This area is near the Tuileries Gardens and Opera Garnier, and is known for its excellent service. There are several popular tourist attractions nearby, including the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower. For those looking to dine in style, L’Absinthe is a great choice. The service here is superb, and the atmosphere is exotic.
Rue Cler
The fishmonger on Rue Cler sells the day’s catch and may be fresher than what you’d find in other towns. Since the English Channel is just a hundred miles away, the fish is fresher than you’ll find anywhere else. Also, the charcuterie on the street sells deli foods to take home. You can find gourmet delis all over the place, which is convenient for entertaining guests and can allow you to focus on your main course. You can also order side dishes for your table at these delis.
Rue Cler is a charming market street in the seventh arrondissement of Paris. Despite the fact that the street is not car-free, it’s a pedestrian area with an array of specialty shops and cafes. Parisians frequent the street to buy local foods, including cheese, bread, and other treats. There’s even a cheese shop that’s worth a visit, which features a wide range of delicious varieties.
Seine River cruises
If you’re interested in sightseeing, take a Seine River cruise. The historic Bateaux Mouches have been operating the river since 1949. These double-decker boats can carry 600 passengers. While the tour may seem like a boring way to see the city, you’ll be glad you did once you’ve experienced a tour of this picturesque river. These boats have orange seats and are perfect for people who want to learn more about the city while they cruise.
Most companies offer Seine River cruises year-round, but high season is generally between April and September. The warmer weather during the summer months allows more boats to run and makes it more comfortable to stand outside. Winter months can be cold and windy, so it’s best to plan your trip during a time when the weather forecast predicts no rain. You can book a Seine cruise a few days in advance, but make sure you choose one that offers all the amenities you’ll need to enjoy the city’s famous sights.
Les Marais
The Marais district is located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. South Marais, also known as SoMa, is an area that is steeped in history. It was once home to a vibrant Jewish community, and today there are many kosher restaurants throughout. Place des Vosges has elegant arcades and is home to the Musée Victor Hugo. The streets around Saint-Paul metro lead to the Maison Européenne de la Photographie.
During the 1950s, the area was largely working class, with most of the architectural masterpieces in a poor state of repair. General de Gaulle’s Culture Minister, Andre Malraux, designated the district as a secteur sauvegarde, or “special cultural significance,” and a comprehensive restoration and rehabilitation program was implemented. The government and the Paris municipality were involved in the process, making sure that the area’s renaissance and medieval heritage were protected and restored.
Le Marais
The district of Le Marais, the 4th arrondissement of Paris, is a cultural, historical, and culinary haven. The district’s elegant arcades and streets lead visitors to the Musée Victor Hugo and the Maison Européenne de la Photographie. Located on the edge of the district, you can also take a tram to the Place des Vosges, where you can visit the Musée d’Orsay and the Jardin du Luxembourg.
Canal Saint-Martin is another small neighborhood in Paris that offers a small but charming vibe. Known as the “bobo” district, this small enclave is full of boutiques and charming cafés. You’ll also find chestnut trees along the streets, as well as shops, cafes, and restaurants. Taking a break from the shopping malls and sauntering through the canals will give you a chance to soak up the culture of the area.
Montparnasse is a gay neighborhood
If you are interested in visiting a gay neighborhood in Paris, then you are probably wondering how you can do so. Paris is one of the most progressive cities in the world, and it is no exception here. It is open to the LGBTQ+ community and there are countless luxury homes to be found here. But before you start your Paris vacation, here is a quick guide to the gay neighborhoods of Montparnasse.
One of the best things to do in Montparnasse is check out its famous bear’s den. The friendly staff are always ready to share about all of the LGBTQ+ happenings in Paris. You can also take a tour of the Montparnasse tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. You can also check out the Cartier Foundation, an art space that hosts temporary exhibitions by young aspiring artists from all over Europe.
