Explore Paris

Paris can be a joy to explore. A city famous for its fabulous architecture, good food, wine, street markets and galleries; it is the home of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and many other famous tourist attractions. Very few cities in Europe can compete with Paris as a romantic destination; the river it straddles, the Seine, also has two islands, situated in the oldest part of the city. No visit would be complete without a trip to the top of the almost 1,000 feet tall Eiffel tower; it can be seen throughout most locations around the city. Illuminated at night it dominates the city's skyline; guided tours add to the thrill as you get to peek into history on how it was constructed.

Traveling around Paris is relatively easy for visitors as well as locals. Metro underground system is easy to understand, efficient and reaches everywhere even the most enthusiastic tourist would want to visit. Many other bus journeys also offer great scenic and city travel options.

Situated on a small island called the Ile de la Cite in the middle of River Seine, its official name is The Notre Dame de Paris, but is often known simply as Notre Dame. It is a Gothic cathedral that took nearly 200 years to be complete. It was first started in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII, but did not get finished until around 1345. This gothic cathedral has dominated the Paris skyline for hundreds of years. Made famous for it's hunchback tale it is one of Europe's most important church buildings.

If you are an art lover, take a trip to Le Louvre. It houses over three hundred thousand exhibits but not all of them are ever on display at the same time. It would be easy for anyone on a Paris short stay vacation to spend all their time here. You can marvel at the numerous works of art including the famed Mona Lisa which is surprisingly small in size. I was very surprised by this when I saw it. The Venus de Milo is also displayed here. You will have the opportunity to see a number of famous paintings whilst you're visiting.

Paris is also the home of the equally famous Arc de Triomphe which Napoleon had constructed in the early part of the 19th century. To honor his generals (and his troops) he had their names inscribed upon it. It also features an observatory to take in surrounding views.

If you plan on spending some of your traveler's checks in Paris, then a trip down the Champs Elysees is an essential part of a trip. It will present you with many famous designer shops and good restaurants. This is considered a more exclusive and busy area of the city. Top class hotels are found here, although if you want to stay at a more reasonably priced hotel, they are available outside of the city center.

Paris is one of the premier capitals of the world especially the romantic amongst us. The French capital of Paris has long been one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations and is home to many of the continent's famed attractions.