Let's Explore Paris
Often referred to as the city of love, Paris is destination that people from all over the world desire to visit. Although the most well known attraction in Paris seems to be the Eiffel Tower, there is so much more to this beautiful city. Whether you're more interested in relaxing by some people watching and munching on a good croissant, or you're more interested in indulging in Paris' incredible museums, there's really something for everyone here.
Sightseeing
The Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, or just Versailles, was originally built by Louis Le Vau by the instruction of Louis XIV. This palace is stunningly beautiful, with extravagant gardens and an equally extravagant interior. This palace has the perfect combination of both history and beauty, being the capital of the kingdom from 1682 to 1789. Versailles is actually located slightly out of Paris, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) out of the city. It's a bit out of the way, but one hundred percent worth it. If you're planning on visiting Versailles, I advise you to get there bright and early in the morning in order to beat the crowds. Versailles is an incredibly popular tourist destination and is always swarming with people. Be aware that the buildings of Versailles are closed on Mondays, so if you're only in town for a few days and want to visit, make sure to visit on another day so that you can enjoy the whole beauty of the place, not just the gardens.
The Eiffel Tower The Eiffel Tower is often used as the symbol for Paris and very popular amongst tourists. If you're planning on going up to the top of the tower, carve out a good amount of time, waiting to go up the elevator can take even more than an hour sometimes. Yes, you can take the stairs, but only to a certain point. You can get a reduced price for using the stairs, but you still have to go up many stairs before you get to the point where you are required to take the elevator.
Notre Dame
Widely known throughout the world as a result of its beauty and of course, the Hunchback of Notre Dame, the cathedral has gorgeous gothic architecture. Notre Dame, meaning 'Our Lady of Paris' in French, is one of the most prominent cathedrals in France because of this architecture. Although I personally do not believe it's necessary to visit the inside, you're welcome to if you please. If not, you're likely to pass by it while en route to another destination.
Shopping
Champs-Élysées
Paris is known for the many shops and Champs-Élysées has it all. With all the high end shops and even mid range shops, Champs-Élysées is real estate for shopping. It leads down to the Arc Du Triomphe and is one of the most famous boulevards.
Museums
The Louvre
For all those art lovers out there, the Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world. The home of the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre has so much to offer, including the iconic architecture of the glass and metal pyramid that houses the main courtyard of the museum, designed by Chinese architect I.M. Pei. The building itself is also grand in its own way, it was originally a palace before being converted into a museum. If you’re planning on visiting the Louvre, I suggest that you have a game plan of sorts so that you can cover all the things you want to see in the time period you have. The Louvre is massive and you probably won’t be able to see it all, so it’s best if you plan out where you should go so that you’ll make the most of your time there. If you plan to stop by the Mona Lisa, here’s a warning, it can get crowded and the best time to look at that is in the morning before the crowd rolls in.
Musee D'Orsay
Although the Louvre’s presence causes many people to overlook the it, I personally enjoyed the Musee D’Orsay over the Louvre. This museum tends to have more impressionist works than the Louvre, that houses lots of Roman pieces.
Gems of Paris
The Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg, instructed for creation Queen Marie de Medici in 1612, is definitely a place to visit if you’re more interested in people watching while munching on the delicious pastries that France has to offer. Although the garden is not nearly as stunning as the gardens of Versailles, these are beautiful as well in their own way. This garden is free of charge to anyone and a great place to just sit down and bask in the scenery.
Looking for a great view? Montmartre is located on the top of a hill, overlooking the city. If you're willing to walk up many steps, you can bask in the breathtaking view in Montmartre. In addition to that, you're likely to find more artsy things up in this area, with painters selling their work and handmade crafts.
Other Things to Know
Transportation
While getting around in the city, the Metro is usually the easiest mode of transport. Day passes start at €14 and a single ticket costs €6.
Food
Food is a huge part of culture in any city or country in the world. France has some incredible cuisine that is something that you must try! If you’re a pastry connoisseur, France is the perfect place to indulge, with all kinds of delicate pastries.
