Guide to Paris
Paris is the famous French capital, adored by tourists, businessmen and Parisians themselves. The best time to visit is during the warm months of April-June where the temperature is enjoyable, but the winter months are just as convenient as the snow is never a hassle and fewer crowds can make the visit more enjoyable for some.
Getting Around
A five-zone system of bus, train and metro is operated by the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens which is a cheap mode of travel.
It is possible to hail a taxi when you see one or simply approach a taxi rank of which there are many in number. A phone is located at the rank which can be used to call a taxi should there not be one. A yellow light on the taxi represents a taxi available for hire whereas an orange light suggests otherwise.
Driving can be a difficult task in central Paris owing to parking restrictions and traffic jams. There are a few paid parking areas however and underground car parks have also been set up to ease the issue.
If you are flying in and need to rent a vehicle then car hire paris airport will be able to help with a rental right from the airport.
Key Attractions
The Eiffel Tower is the key attraction of the city, designed by Gustave Eiffel. It towers over the Champ de Mars and a great view of the city can be captured from the top floor. A few restaurants are also included in the Tour Eiffel.
The Cathedrale de Notre-Dame is a stunning gothic construct with rose windows. There are 387 spiral steps to climb to get to the North Tower where the views are epic in nature over the River Seinne and the city centre as well.
The Louvre National Museum has some extraordinary pieces of artwork whether they be paintings or sculptures, from a diverse range of artists and areas including Rome, Egypt, Germany and Spain. In a bullet-proof case, you will find the treasure created by Da Vinci in the form of the Mona Lisa.
Pablo Picasso’s collections have been put together in the National Picasso Museum, containing everything from initial sketches to final productions, and masterpieces including paintings of his lover Marie-Therese.
Restaurants
L’Ambroisie offers chic French cuisine in a private hotel, with rich decorations that scream out class. The menu is altered based on what fresh items are available and the wine list is impressive in its content and number.
Bofinger is especially loved by the business community. It offers the best range of fresh sea food dishes and the atmosphere is buzzing with laughter and enjoyment.
Georges is a modern creation by the Costes brothers. Located on the 6th floor, it attracts huge crowds that love the view the location has to offer. The menu has both French and international cuisine varieties.
A Moroccan restaurant overlooking the quayside is known by the name of Gallerie 88, open till midnight and serving special varieties of food, famously known for its soups and bread.
Nightlife
There is a blurry line between bars and cafes in Paris, and beer is served as a demi (25cl). Café Charbon is a popular one which has also extended to a club. A grungier feel can be brought about by a visit to the toolbar inspired Le Mecano Bar. Le Central is the main gay bar in the city with a gay hotel located at its top. A bar in the shape of a horseshoe goes by the name of Au Petit Fer a Cheval and is another popular option.
Loved in Paris are the genres of techno, house, latino and garage. Considered one of the best clubs in the city is Queen which attracts a mostly gay crowd but a large number of tourists as well. Le Saint is a cheaper option playing disco and salsa.
If live music is your thing, Le Bilboquet hosts some highly revered musicians often playing music o the jazz variety on a nightly basis. Palais de Congres hosts many rock concerts which always attract a young audience.
Shopping
Paris is home to a stupendous number of designer outlets and the city always keeps ahead of all fashion trends. Most designer labels can be found along avenue des Champs-Elysées, avenue Montaigne and rue François 1er and along rue du Faubourg St-Honoré.
Some of the more affordable yet chic department stores are also located on the 8th and names include Les Galeries and Au Printemps. More intimate boutiques include the many works of young designers in the Jewish quarter and some of the best ice cream is also sold here.
Expensive antiques can be found at Le Louvre des Antiquaires.
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