The food, the fashion, the flea markets... Make the most
of your holiday overseas with our
guide to the top 5 things to do in Paris, France.
We'll help you experience the best the world has to offer.
1. Explore the markets
They're a way of life in the French capital and a
place to pick up some amazing finds. Wander through the food
markets at Rue Mouffetard or Rue de Buci, the contemporary
art market at Bastille, or one of the city's many
Marches aux Puces (flea markets). They're great for
browsing and people watching, even if you're not
buying.
2. Take in the views
Paris is a truly beautiful city, and where better to enjoy
it than from up on high? There are plenty of superb vantage
points to choose from - the Eiffel Tower being the
most popular, then there's the Arc de Triomphe,
Montparnasse Tower, and the steps of the Sacre Coeur. And if
you can cope with the spiral stairs, Notre Dame is also well
worth the climb, for the incredible view from the top.
3. Get arty
If you're into your art, Paris has more than its fair
share of museums and galleries. There's the Louvre, of
course, with its enormous range of exhibits and paintings,
including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa. And for more
modern art fans, the Pompidou Centre takes some beating.
4. Shop, shop, shop
Your budget may not stretch to the haute couture of the
Champs Elysees, but if you love shopping, this is definitely
the city for it. The department stores near Opera are a
great starting point. Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are
both over 100 years old, and are beautiful buildings in
themselves, as well as being wonderful shopping
destinations.
5. Tantalise your tastebuds
Eating is a national pastime in France, and you'll
find charming bistrots on practically ever corner in Paris.
The set menus offer the best value, and are what most
Parisians tend to go for. And if it's good weather,
picnicking is a great option too. Pick yourself up a
baguette, some cheese, a few pastries, and head to one of
the city's wonderful squares or parks. The Jardins du
Luxembourg, for example, is a perfect lunchtime venue.
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