Places to Visit Around Paris

Paris is one of the most popular cities in the world, with a rich history and plenty of places to explore. From its iconic monuments and ancient cathedrals to its bustling nightlife and world-class cuisine, it’s no surprise that Paris is a top tourist destination. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor, Paris offers something for everyone.

A Brief History of the City

Paris has been a major European center for centuries. It was first inhabited by the Celtic Gauls, who called it Lutetia. The Romans conquered it in 52 B.C., and the city became known as Parisii. It was an important port city, and it grew in size and population due to its strategic location at the intersection of two major rivers.

In the Middle Ages, Paris became the political and cultural center of France. The city was home to famous scholars and artists such as Voltaire and Da Vinci, and the royal court was based there. This period also saw the construction of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum.

The 18th century was a time of great change in Paris. It was the age of the Enlightenment, and the city experienced an explosion of culture and art. The French Revolution began in Paris in 1789, and it was during this period that the city was transformed into the modern, vibrant metropolis we know today.

Facts and Figures

Paris is the capital of France and one of the most visited cities in the world. It has a population of over 2 million people and is known for its culture, fashion, art, architecture, and gastronomy. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and cafes to explore.

The official language of Paris is French, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The currency is the euro (€), and the time zone is Central European Time (CET). The city is well-connected by public transportation, with an extensive network of buses, trams, metros, and trains.

The Top Sights

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks. The Eiffel Tower is one of the city’s most iconic attractions, and it is also home to many other famous monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral. The Louvre Museum is another must-see destination, with its extensive collection of artwork from around the world.

The Champs-Elysees is one of Paris’ most famous boulevards, lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and theaters. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon shopping or people-watching. The Latin Quarter is another popular area of the city and home to many universities and colleges. It was also once home to some of the world’s greatest thinkers such as Voltaire and Rousseau.

The Montmartre district is an interesting area of Paris to explore. It was once a village outside the city walls but is now known for its art galleries and cabarets. There are also many parks in Paris such as the Jardin des Tuileries and Bois de Boulogne. These are great places to relax during a busy day of sightseeing.

Popular Activities

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Paris. Shopping is one of the city’s greatest pleasures, with many high-end stores on the Champs-Elysees as well as smaller boutiques in Montmartre and other neighborhoods. Foodies will love exploring the city’s many cafes, bistros, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The nightlife in Paris is legendary, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. The Moulin Rouge cabaret is one of Paris’ most famous nightlife spots, and there are also many jazz clubs in Saint-Germain-des-Pres.

Paris is also home to many museums, galleries, and cultural sites. The Louvre is one of the world’s greatest art galleries, while the Musee d’Orsay features works by Impressionist masters such as Monet and Renoir. The Rodin Museum is another must-see attraction, with its collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin.

One Day Tour of Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most interesting districts in Paris, with its winding streets and cobbled alleys lined with artists’ studios and galleries. This one day tour takes you on a journey through this charming neighborhood, where you’ll explore its quaint cafes and shops, visit famous landmarks such as Sacre Coeur Basilica, stroll through picturesque parks, take in stunning views from Montmartre Hill, and learn about its fascinating history from your guide. This tour will give you an insight into the creative spirit of this unique area of Paris. Book a Montmartre Tour here.

Two Day Tour of the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a beautiful region of France located just outside of Paris. On this two day tour you’ll explore some of its stunning castles such as Chambord and Chenonceau as well as its picturesque villages like Amboise. You’ll also visit vineyards to sample local wines and enjoy delicious meals in some of the region’s best restaurants. With its stunning landscapes, incredible architecture, and rich history, this tour will give you a true insight into why this area has been a favorite destination for centuries. Book a Loire Valley Tour here.

Two Day Versailles Palace Tour

No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting Versailles Palace – one of France’s most iconic landmarks. On this two day tour you’ll explore this sprawling estate with your guide and learn about its rich history as well as its grand architecture. You’ll visit Marie Antoinette’s estate at Trianon Palace and explore the breathtaking gardens filled with statues and fountains. This tour will give you a unique insight into this incredible palace that has been home to French royalty for centuries. Book a Versailles Palace Tour here.

Conclusion

Paris is one of Europe’s most popular cities for tourists due to its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor, there are plenty of places to visit around Paris that will be sure to capture your imagination. From iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower to charming districts such as Montmartre or day trips to explore nearby regions like the Loire Valley or Versailles Palace – Paris has something for everyone!