Visiting France - Suggestions for holidays, trains, itineraries, day-trips, and sightseeing from someone who has lived and traveled extensively in France
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10. Arc de Triomphe
Metro and RER: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Towering over the Champs Elysees is Napoleon’s famous Arc de Triomphe. Started in 1806 after the victory at Austerlitz, the arc is now a popular destination for those wanting an areal view of the city.
9. Musée du Louvre
Metro: Palais-Royal-Musée du Louvre
This world-famous museum needs little introduction. Home to many famous works of art, the Louvre is an attraction that is hard to pass up. The best way to do the museum is to map out the main works you want to see and make sure to visit them first. If you have energy left after that, spend some time in the rest of the museum.
8. Centre Pompidou
Metro: Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, Châtelet-Les-Halles
If for no other reason than to see the exterior architecture, the Centre Pompidou is worth a visit. For modern and contemporary art lovers, the fabulous array of rotating exhibitions makes it worth a visit. For those not keen on modern or contemporary art, skip the exhibitions and take the escalator up to the top floor. There you can enjoy great views of the city from the cafe.
7. Jardin du Luxembourg
Metro: Odéon, RER: Luxembourg, Port Royal
Located near the Pantheon, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the largest park in Paris. The beautiful gardens surround the Luxembourg Palace, which was built by Salomon de Brosse for Marie de Medici in 17th century. The Jardin du Luxembourg is an ideal place for a sunny afternoon walk, but make sure to avoid the lawns, as most are off-limits to pedestrians and picnic-ers alike.
6. Place des Vosges
Metro: Bastille, Chemin Vert, Saint Paul
The oldest square in Paris, the Place des Vosges is home to Victor Hugo’s house and a beautiful park. Built by Henri IV in the early 17th century and originally named the Place Royale, the Place des Vosges is now a popular destination for those wanting a taste of history, or just a nap on the lawn.
5. Eiffel Tower
Metro: Bir Hakeim, RER: Champ de Mars
Built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most famous landmark. On the left bank of the seine at the top of the Champ de Mars, the tower boasts of some of the best views in Paris. If you visit, make sure to watch your wallet, as theft and pickpocketing are rampant in the area.
4. Parc Monceau
Metro: Monceau
Parc Monceau is on the border of the chi chi 8th and 17th arrondissements of Paris. The park was built by Phillippe d’Orléans, Duke of Chartres, in the 18th century. In the spring and summer, the park is awash in color as flowers and trees are in bloom. The park is a perfect place for a picnic or a romantic stroll.
3. Notre Dame
Metro: Cité, Saint Michel-Notre Dame, RER: Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint Michel-Notre Dame
Perhaps the most famous religious landmark in Paris, the Notre Dame was constructed by Maurice de Sully between the 12th and 14th centuries. Today the Notre Dame continues to attract visitors with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture. Make sure to visit the nearby Sainte Chappelle at 4, boulevard du Palais to see the beautiful stained glass windows.
2. Sacré Coeur
Metro: Anvers, Abbesses, Château Rouge, Lamarck-Caulaincourt
Built in the late 19th century after the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune, the Sacré Coeur is the highlight of Paris’ Montmartre district. High on hill with great views of the city, this is one of Paris’ most beautiful landmarks.
1. Musee D’Orsay
Metro: Solférino, RER: Musée d’Orsay
Anyone who loves impressionist art must visit the Orsay while in Paris. The museum, which is housed in an old train station on the left bank, is a great place to see the works of Monet, Degas, Van Gough and other famous masters. Smaller and easier to navigate than the monstrous Louvre, the Orsay is a great place to visit.
