As you all know, I adore Paris. The food, the history, the culture, the people… It’s the greatest destination for a truly European experience. Paris can be done on a budget or for a little more for a more luxurious experience.
Whatever way you choose to travel, there are some parts of this city which you simply cannot miss.
Landmarks:
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower epitomises Paris and is the city’s most prominent cultural landmark. The tower was originally erected in 1889 as an entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, and still stands as one of the most beautiful and recognisable landmarks in the world.
The tower is the most visited paid monument in the world, and as such you have to expect queues all year round if you wish to climb it – the wait will be worth it though! No other location in the city grants you such uninterrupted and stunning views – even on a cloudy day you’ll be able to see for miles.
Whether you choose to walk up the tower or take the lift, it really is a must visit spot when you’re in the city of love, so make sure that you plan for your visit in your budget.
Arc de Triomphe
Standing originally as a monument honouring those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, it is now a landmark which also remembers those who died in the First and Second World Wars and went unidentified.
The Arc was commissioned in 1806 and took many years to complete; it was clearly worth the effort as the monument serves as reason enough for many people to visit the city. Any trip to Paris will feature regular sightings of the Arc for free, but you can also visit the top of the Arc to see panoramic views of the surrounding city.
Cathedrals:
Notre Dame
Yet another one of the most famous landmarks in the world, this time of French Gothic style, Notre Dame de Paris is a fantastic location to visit in the city whether you are religious or not.
The cathedral houses several significant relics, including a fragment of the True Cross, one of the Holy Nails and one of the third-class crown of thorns. These significant Christian relics are usually set upon display at Easter, so that would be the best time to visit should you wish to witness these items.
For those who are less religiously inclined, the architecture alone should be enough to draw you to visit the stunning building. Each face of the cathedral contains such a great level of detail that it would take a full trip to appreciate it all. The interior is equally as impressive, and it is easy to understand the reverence many people hold for the place.
Sainte-Chapelle
If you enjoyed visiting Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle is another great option for those looking to visit Paris on a budget. Building of the chapel began in 1239 after being commissioned by King Louis IX of France, and is considered by many to be one of the highest achievements of the Gothic architecture period.
Any artist will wish to visit this chapel as it is one of the most extensive collections of 13th century stained glass to be found globally, and from within are truly inspiring. The colours are incredible and the images displayed are astounding as you realize how aged these windows actually are.
Sacre-Coeur Basilica
This Roman Catholic Church is popular amongst tourists not only for the architectural achievement of the building itself but for the views the surrounding area provides. Based upon the summit of the butte Montmarte, it is the highest natural point in the city and provides astounding views which cannot be missed when the sky is clear.
Construction began in 1875 and continued until 1914, meaning the construction of the building itself is soaked in the religious and political history of Paris, including World War I. You can enjoy a picnic on the surrounding sloped grass on a sunny day, or take refuge within the church and appreciate the stunning art work for a cheap activity.
Other Activities
Champs-Elysees
A fantastic location for those looking for a little class to add to the holiday, you can either visit the street and check out the big name brands on offer, or if you’re lucky enough to be traveling with some cash, this will be your shopping mecca.
Much like most of the city’s attractions, the street has a rich history to add to the cosmopolitan center which it is known for today. Originally fields and gardens, the area began development in 1616 with the avenue of trees. Slowly over the years it resembled what its current state more and more, until the 18th Century when it became one of the most fashionable locations in the city.
You can expect to find the very richest Parisians as residents in this huge area, as well as up-to-the-minute offices. The shops on offer range from H&N and the Disney Store, to Louis Vuitton and Lacoste. It is renowned for the range of shopping opportunities, and even houses the world’s (now second) largest Adidas store.
Accommodation
For many visiting Paris, the accommodation becomes one of the best parts of the holiday. If you’re looking for something on a budget, there are a variety of different hostels available. However, if you have a little more cash, Paris is ideal for those looking to experience the height in modern luxury.
Vhip Hotels showcase Paris’s best hotels, and looking through the options is enough to make anyone book a flight. Hotel Sezz Paris is so chic it’s almost painful, as the cool interior starts from the en suite bathrooms to the chilled out bar. The views are also unparalleled – who doesn’t want to see the Eiffel Tower outside their window?
There is so much to see and do, that you should seriously consider a trip to Paris for your next vacation. What are you waiting for?
