Paris,the City of Light, will keep egging you on with the overwhelming amount on offer, especially for the first time visitor. However, with a bit of resourceful planning, this challenge can be easily overcome, simply by following these top tips, which will blow your mind as you stroll casually by the banks of the River Seine.
Major attractions
The ideal way to immerse in the wonders of Paris is to gaze down upon it from the top of the Eiffel Tower, and then take a selfie with the iconic monument from across the street. Head to the spiritual center of the city, the Notre Dame Cathedral, situated on a large island of the Seine. A view from the North tower of the gargoyle faced roof, is deemed to be a ritual for every tourist.
The ever crowded Louvre museum, housing the priceless Mona Lisa is a must see. Right adjacent to it are the boutique adorned arcades of Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Palais Royal. For art lovers the Musee du Quai and the Musee National Picasso with do ample justice.
For aficionados of contemporary architecture a visit to the Foundation Louis Vuitton and a view of the best sights of Paris from the top of the famous Arc de Triomphe is essential. If you have an extra day to spare, head to Versailles to explore the famous chateau. For kids and families, Disneyland is an absolute must visit.
Dining out
Paris is famous for its excellent cuisine which can be enjoyed by eating in formal dining outlets and savouring the casual eating spots. Try the Bistrot Paul Bert on the 11e, or go for bar dining at the walk-in Frenchie or Verjus, right next to the Louvre.
For a quick bite between excursions, try a sandwich baguette from Hure or from the hundreds of cafés which serve light meals. Another alternative is the local staple for more than four hundred years, a sit down market lunch at the Marche aux Enfants Rouges.
Accommodation
There are plenty of places to choose from, depending on the location and the budget. Hotels should be selected, keeping in mind the accessibility to major sites and transport linking them. Students will like the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank, while for foodies, the Right Bank areas near the Louvre are the best. To experience the charm of a village consider the Montmartre, on 18e. While cheap hotels will come without elevators or air-conditioning, breakfast too is normally not an inclusion.
Transportation
There are good and frequent connections from the airport to the city centre. While walking is the best way to see Paris, try out the Batobus, a hop on and off service, which connects the principal sites. The RATP metro is fast, efficient and safe. Buying a bunch of ten tickets is the cheapest way to use this service.
A plethora of world famous landmarks and chic shopping outlets is bound to confuse even the most hardy visitor, let alone the first timer. By booking accommodation in advance and buying tickets online for the major attractions, one can save a lot of money and time and help in getting a wonderful introduction to the city.
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