Overview
Paris is oft termed as the fashion capital of the world with the best in the fashion industry having their headquarters in this city of art and fashion. A timeless beauty, this city is to be seen to be believed. From iconic Eiffel Tower standing tall in the city center, serene Seine River, to the fashion parade house on Champ Elysess, Paris has it all. History and art lovers can also quench their thirst as the city reeks of artistically made and historically reverent monuments, castles and cathedrals.
Paris has been an important city for over 2,000 years and ever since the beginning it has been an important tourist destination. Tourists throng to this place in every season in huge crowds. The main attraction is its portrayal of art and history that can be visibly seen through the masterpieces from all over the world from pre-history to the Renaissance, contemporary, gothic and classic. Its vibrant historic past and cultural repertoire makes it one of most preferred holiday destinations
Tourist Attractions
- Eiffel Tower - Every Paris voyage should start from the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris. It is by far the most visited tourist destination with 5.6 million visitors every year. It offers a breath taking view of the city but when it was made, the creator Gustave Eiffel created it only as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World Fair. Today, this 320m-tall signature spire finds a pride of place in everyone’s bucket list. You must ensure that you go right up to the highest level to get the most spectacular view of the city with the Seine River flowing and artistically designed old monuments fringing the city.
- Louvre Museum - An art lover’s Mecca- the Louvre Museum is a must to do while in Paris. This historic building was originally a fortress in the 12th century after which it was made into a palace and today it is the largest museum in the world showcasing 35,000 masterpieces from all over Europe. From the famous Mona Lisa, the Raft of the Medusa, The Man with a glove to sculptures such as Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus Di Milo; it has all the famed works of art. You can easily spend a day at the Louvre appreciating all its splendour and priceless collections of antiquities.
- Sacre-Coeur - The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is a Roman Catholic Church and minor basilica for the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This artistically designed structure is one of the iconic monuments in Paris. It offers one of the best panoramic views of the capital. Its Roman-Byzantine style is prolific with the ceiling adorned with the largest mosaic in France. You can take a short walk from the Sacré Coeur to the Place du Tertre, the district of Abbesses and at the bottom of the hill is the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret.
- Notre Dame De Paris - A visit to the Notre-Dame de Paris or simply the Notre-Dame is a must for every visitor in Paris. A medieval Catholic cathedral. Its French Gothic architecture focuses on Catholic Paris for seven centuries. All art and history lovers should not miss this piece of art.
- Arc de Triomphe - The triumphal arch is older than the Eiffel tower and was made to celebrate the victories in war. French king, Louis-Philippe inaugurated it in 1836 and dedicated it to the armies of the Revolution and the Empire. In 1921 the Unknown Soldier was buried at the base of arch. Every day the flame of remembrance is rekindled in the evening as a token of remembrance of those who laid their lives for the country.
- Champ Elysees - Termed as the fashion street of the world, Champ Elysees is one of the most beautiful avenues in the world lined with famous restaurants, high end boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Mont-Blanc, flagship stores and scores of nightclubs. This two-kilometer stretch between the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe sees tourists and locals strolling at any time of the day or night enjoying the buzz around. Its vibrant vibe is eclectic and must be experienced.
- Seine River Cruise - Embark on a voyage on the Seine River cruise and discover the complete splendour of the river banks and the city’s monuments as you sail along. It will not only invigorate your senses and your soul but also make you feel the pulse of the city. You will come across many Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower as you go along, making the ride enjoyable and engaging.
Nightlife
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the famous Moulin Rouge and the Lido. Both are world famous cabaret shows where artists wear flamboyant outfits and dance to original music recorded by famous musicians. It is a pleasure to watch them glide through the stage with grace and poise as the dramatic backgrounds keep changing. Other than this there are several nightclubs where you can let your hair down till wee hours of the morning. Just beware that these clubs are little heavy on the pocket.
Weather
The best time to visit Paris is from June to August, when the weather Gods are favourable. However, summers are also a favourite amongst travelers but all hotels and other bookings hit the ceiling during this period. Seasoned travelers can however, try to visit the city in winter, even though it is cold. Seeing the city during the festivities of Christmas has its own charm. Art lovers can come to Paris during fall when events like the Montmartre Wine Harvest (Vendanges) and Nuit Blanche take place. These all-night art and cultural events pull crowds to the streets admiring the exhibits and performances – living up to its Parisian ethos.
Accommodation
Paris is an expensive city to live in so the hotels and guest houses are also on the higher side. However, one can find budget hotels on the outskirts but they need to be booked much in advance.
Before You Go
To visit Paris for up to 90 days you need to apply for a Schengen visa that is valid for the 26 States that are members of the Schengen agreement. It takes approximately 15 days for the visa to be processed.