Visiting Paris
If you are planning to visit Europe then you must stay at least a couple of days in one of its largest cities, Paris; ideally situated along the banks of the river Seine. No visit to Europe would be complete without a short stay in Paris; for most visitors, this is just enough time to see what it has to offer.
A city famous for its fabulous architecture, good food, wine, street markets and galleries; the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre must not go unmentioned. Like most European cities, Paris is easy to get around; the Metro underground train network will probably be the main method as it runs regularly and reaches every part of the city.
The Eiffel Tower at over 300 meters tall and is a magnificent steel structure; it’s visible throughout most of the city but the views from the top of this huge steel structure are even more impressive. You can be assured of an even more beautiful sight if you visit in the evening when it is illuminated; it is possible to take organized tours which tell the story of the Tower and the history of France.
A trip down the Champs Elysees is encouraged when you visit Paris as this is the city’s most famous street; with shops, cafes, and restaurants littered along the wide pavements, it is a ‘must see’ for every visitor. This is considered a more exclusive and busy area of the city; it is also where most of the five star hotels are situated but thankfully hotels tend to be cheaper once you move away from the city center.
The world famous Louvre museum is in this city; it houses over three hundred thousand exhibits but not all of them are ever on display at the same time. There are so many exhibits here they cannot all be viewed during a short stay in Paris; the Mona Lisa is one such world famous work of art which should not be missed. Many well known artists spent years of their lives in Paris; chances are that you will have the opportunity to see a number of famous paintings whilst you’re visiting.
Another famous Paris attraction is The Arc de Triomphe which was built within the first decade of the nineteenth century; the names of his generals engraved upon it to honor them and his troops. The Arc is the focal point of the city and contains an observatory to view the local area; in particular those obtained along the lanes that lead from it.
You will not be at a loss for places to visit whilst in the city; but these should certainly not to be missed because many offer regular guided tours, some at little or no charge at all. Paris short stay vacations should only ever be considered as tasters for what is a truly magnificent city; that would require a longer visit as you probably won’t have time to visit the Gothic churches and castles in only a few days.