10 reasons to visit Paris
Paris is an exotic dream destination for travelers the world over. It wears multiple hats such as the romantic capital, the food capital, and the fashion capital of the world. It is a city overflowing with innumerable attractions, each more stunning than the other. This glamorous metropolis is the proud owner of some of the most iconic monuments in the world such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. With so many things to offer, it may be intimidating for visitors to narrow down the reasons to visit Paris. Here is a list of things to do in Paris.
This blog is a guest post by Neha Singh. Read out more stuff about Dubai on her website.
Before we start with Paris, you might like to watch this drone video from various parts of Europe.
1. Eiffel Tower
No prizes for guessing that one of the most visited monuments not only in Paris but throughout the world is the legendary Eiffel Tower. This majestic landmark was designed by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel in 1889 for the Paris Exhibition. This engineering marvel stands at a height of 324 meters. There are observatories on the first and second levels which provide a panoramic view of the entire city. Take the glass elevator to the summit of the tower to enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire city. There are a few restaurants and bistros in the tower to keep your hunger pangs at bay, of which Jules Verne is the best and offers a wonderful view of Quai Branly, Tocadéro, and Champs-de-Mars. Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night is a mesmerizing experience and highly recommended.
2. Notre Dame Cathedral
Located on the Ile de la Cité, the Notre Dame Cathedral was founded by King Louis IX and
Bishop Maurice de Sully in 1163. This renowned Roman Catholic cathedral has stood the test of
time and is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Its Gothic style architecture is a
sight to behold with striking architecture, beautiful sculptures, marvelous rose windows, and
stunning gargoyles. Don't miss the intricate wood carvings and stained-glass windows inside the
cathedral. It is the main subject of the famous writer Victor Hugo’s literary classic Notre-Dame
de Paris. Walk around and soak in the brilliant architecture of this charming place.
3. The Louvre
This attraction needs no introduction. Hands down the most famous and most visited art and history museums in the world, The Louvre is home to more than 35000 artworks. Located in the courtyard of Palais du Louvre, the collections in the museum are divided into eight departments that include Egyptian Antiquities, Greek and Roman art, Islamic Art, Paintings, Sculptures, Decorative Arts, and Drawings among the others. Visitors can enter the museum through the impressive glass pyramid. It houses some stunning masterpieces by eminent artists of which Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, or La Jaconde in French, is the most prized possession of the museum. Other celebrated artworks include Michelangelo’s ‘Dying Slave’, Botticelli’s frescoes, Antioche’s sculpture of Venus de Milo, Veronese’s Wedding Feast at Cana, Winged Victory of Samothrace, Great Sphinx of Tanis, and Lamassus. The museum is closed on Tuesdays so plan your visit accordingly.
4. Arc de Triomphe and Champs Elysées
Undoubtedly the most renowned arch in the world, Arc de Triomphe is one of the most visited monuments in Paris. Located at the western end of the beautiful boulevard Champs Elysées, this structure was constructed to commemorate the brave soldiers who fought for France in the Napoleonic wars and French armies of the Revolution. The names of the generals and wars fought are engraved on the inside and at the top of the arch. The ground underneath the vault also includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War 1 and it is the place where the Memorial Flame burns. The arch boasts of splendid architecture, stunning pillars, and fantastic sculptures. Head to Champs Elysées, the most gorgeous street in the whole world, to indulge in some retail therapy at stores like Cartier, Abercrombie & Fitch, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Swarovski.
5. Moulin Rouge
Located at the base of the Montmartre highland, Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret in the world. Known as the spiritual birthplace of the modern French can-can dance, Moulin Rouge provides entertainment to thousands of visitors from around the world. Moulin Rouge is a classic cabaret venue that dazzles its visitors with glamorous decor and vibrant music. They offer an extravagant spectacle of dance, drama, and music with elaborate costumes and fascinating choreography that will surely leave you mesmerized. There are many shows among which the most popular ones are Moulin Rouge, Lido de Paris, and Crazy Horse. You can also opt for a French dinner and champagne show in the evenings. Many international stars such as Frank Sinatra, Elton John, Edith Piaf, Ella Fitzgerald, and Liza Minnelli, have performed here. It is one of the most unique Paris activities that you must not miss.
6. River Seine Cruise
Take a boat cruise along the river Seine to enjoy some of the most impressive views of the city. Known as the heart of the city, this 777 km long river is also the major source of water in Paris. You can admire the monuments around the river during the daytime, but an evening cruise is highly recommended. The evening cruise has a magical element to it with all the iconic landmarks brilliantly illuminated. The Eiffel Tower, Pont Alexander, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Seine River bridges, and Louvre Museum look breathtaking against the background of the sunset. You can also enjoy a scrumptious 3-course gourmet meal on-board the cruise. Champagne and live music are also included in some of the packages. This is one of the most memorable experiences in Paris and you should surely not miss it.
7. Montmartre
Located in the north of Paris, Montmartre is a hillock that is a melting pot of culture and art. Many celebrated artists including Pablo Picasso, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Amedeo Modigliani had set base here during the Belle Époque. This place is a paradise for all art lovers. Brimming with cozy bistros, quaint cafes, cobbled streets, the stunning white-domed Basilica, and Square of Tertre, this place has a certain charm that is the stuff of dreams. Espace Salvador Dalí is a museum housing drawings and sculptures of the famous Spanish painter. You can enjoy a marvelous view of Paris from the top of Sacré-Coeur. While you are here, don’t forget to see the Wall of Love also known as Le Mur des Je t’aimes in French, on which ‘I love you’ is written 311 times in 250 languages.
8. Palace of Versailles
Constructed as a symbol of the French monarchy, the Palace of Versailles is listed as a World Heritage site for 30 years. This colossal structure combines elements of French Baroque architecture and boasts of lavish decor, beautiful landscape, and a marvelous terrace. It displays incredible artworks of the Renaissance period. This opulent complex was the former royal residence of Louis XIV, as well as his descendants Louis XV and Louis XVI. Today the palace consists of more than 2300 elegant and uniquely designed rooms. Hall of Mirrors, Queen’s Chamber, The Grand Trianon, Museum of the History of France, Garden, Chapelle, Royale, and Musical Fountain Shows are some of the most popular attractions here.
9. Luxembourg Garden
Located on the left bank of River Seine, Luxembourg Garden also known as Jardin du Luxembourg in the native tongue and is a delightful place to visit in Paris. The verdant greenery is a perfect spot for picnics and family get-togethers. There are plenty of sculptures dotting the garden which are very impressive. The Luxembourg Palace inside the park is worth a visit. There are many recreational options such as puppet shows, traditional marionette shows, sports such as tennis and basketball and a playground with swings and ponies for kids. Pavilion de la Fontaine is a charming cafe with outdoor seating that serves yummy food. This is a perfect spot for people to take a break from their hectic schedule and spend some relaxing time.
10. Musée d'Orsay
One of the largest museums in Europe, Musée d’Orsay displays some outstanding sculptures and artworks. It is home to some of the greatest collection of artworks by eminent artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Cézanne. The façade of the museum looks opulent and was a train station in the past. The interior of the building looks equally elegant. There are two cafes and a fancy restaurant that serves some top-notch gourmet food and has gilded ceilings and dazzling chandeliers. This place is extremely popular among history buffs and art fanatics.
Conclusion
Paris is peppered with ancient palaces, splendid art museums, elegant shopping hubs, and Michelin star restaurants. It is also host to many global events such as French Open Grand Slam and the Paris Fashion Week among others. If you are traveling around the season when these events take place, it is advisable to get your tickets for them too. With so many diverse offerings of delectable food, incredible shopping, great monuments, and rich history, it is a complete package for every kind of visitor.
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