**Why go to Paris?**
Paris is widely recognized as one of the most fashionable and romantic cities in the world. It boasts many world-class museums and art galleries. Paris is a flowing feast, a place filled with culture, art, and the passion for life. It has wonderful food and accommodations.
Today’s article is an in-depth guide to Paris, super detailed. I’ll proudly say, you won’t need to look at any other Paris guides. I spent a full seven days and six nights exploring this magnificent city in April, truly delving into everything Paris has to offer.
The reason I stayed in Paris for such an extended period is that I believe it is the most romantic city in all of Europe, rich in cultural heritage and definitely worth treasuring every moment in. This year also marks the Olympic year in Paris, so I thought it would be fitting to write an extensive guide to the city before the games.
**Here’s how to experience Paris!**
1) **Get a Bird’s Eye View of Paris**
When you arrive in Paris, you must first take in the city from a higher vantage point. I recommend climbing to a height for a panoramic view. Once you understand the overall layout of the city, it becomes clear where to go and how to plan your route.
There are several places in Paris where you can gain this elevated perspective:
– **Eiffel Tower**
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris and of France, stands at 330 meters tall. Completed in the late 19th century, it is best to visit the very top to enjoy the stunning views, as there are very few buildings in Paris taller than ten stories.
– **Arc de Triomphe**
At the center of the Arc de Triomphe radiate 12 main avenues connecting key traffic routes in Paris, including the famous Champs-Élysées. You can ascend the monument, but tickets are required.
– **Montparnasse Tower**
This is the tallest building in Paris and features the highest café in Europe. The Montparnasse Tower, at 210 meters (690 feet), is equivalent to 59 stories and houses an observation deck on the top.
– **Sacré-Cœur Basilica**
Located at the northern point of Paris, it is the highest point in the city, offering a splendid view from the top of this beautiful church.
For a more budget-friendly hidden option, consider taking a hot air balloon ride, which allows you to soar over the city for a low fee.
2) **Visit Museums and Art Galleries**
Paris has over 130 museums, and without a couple of weeks, you won’t be able to see them all. Thus, focus on the highlights.
– **The Louvre** is a must-visit, often regarded as the world’s top museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the Code of Hammurabi, and the Venus de Milo.
– **Versailles Palace** is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the most stunning palaces in Europe. The gardens and the palace will take a good few hours, so prepare to walk a lot!
Consider pre-booking tickets to avoid long queues; visiting early in the morning is particularly advantageous.
3) **Church Visits**
Don’t miss the Sainte-Chapelle, known for its magnificent stained glass windows, making it one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. You can also enjoy classical music concerts there for a modest fee.
4) **Explore Cemeteries**
Visit the Panthéon, where many notable figures in French and world history are interred, as well as the military museum at the Hôtel des Invalides, which includes Napoleon’s grave.
5) **City Walks**
There are several districts perfect for leisurely walks, like the Left Bank of the Seine, which is home to charming cafés and bookstores.
6) **Enjoy Performances**
The major theaters in Paris, including the Comédie-Française and the Opéra Garnier, offer a range of performances throughout the year.
7) **Shopping**
For luxury goods, head to the Champs-Élysées; for department store delights, visit Galeries Lafayette.
8) **Other Attractions**
You might also explore some of Paris’s lovely parks or take a romantic evening boat cruise along the Seine.
9) **Day Trips from Paris**
Consider day trips to places like Mont-Saint-Michel or Disneyland Paris, both offering unique experiences away from the city.
10) **Getting Around Paris**
Public transportation is efficient, and you can buy multi-day metro passes to save money. Taxis and rideshares like Uber are also widely available.
11) **Accommodations**
Paris consists of 20 districts, with many attractions concentrated in the central ones.
12) **Travel Apps**
Make use of various travel apps for navigation, translation, restaurant reservations, and shopping.
13) **Best Time to Visit Paris**
Spring and summer are ideal for visiting Paris; however, fall is also beautiful, particularly during the arts season.
14) **Tips for Visiting Paris**
Always book museum tickets in advance, pay attention to closure days, and be cautious in certain areas, especially at night.
15) **City Passes**
Consider purchasing a city pass that includes entry to attractions and transportation options.
16) **Sample Itinerary**
You can allocate days to visit major sites like the Louvre, the Orsay Museum, and more.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Paris! If you have any travel tips to share, please leave a comment.
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