5 top attractions in Paris: Quite possibly the most famous man-made structure in the world, the Eiffel Tower was originally erected as a temporary exhibit for the Exposition Universelle of 1889. It provides heart-stopping views over Paris and is visible from most vantage points across the city. Aside from the new glass floor installed in 2014, which truly messes with your perception if you’re brave enough to walk across it, there’s also a panoramic champagne bar on the third floor, a brasserie and a Michelin-starred restaurant. At night, the Eiffel’s girders sparkle like fairy lights on a Christmas tree (every hour, on the hour).
Paris restaurant pick : Okay, it costs a freaking fortune (145 euros), but the vegetarian tasting menu by three-Michelin-starred chef Alain Passard is as close to nirvana as Paris can deliver for vegetarians. It’s so good that accompanying non-vegetarians will forget they came as a somewhat selfless gesture, too. Passard’s vegetables come from his own organic farm, and what you’ll get depends on what’s available at the time. A sample of Passard’s talent with the bounty of the garden includes dishes like cep mushrooms with lemon and a vol au vent (puff pastry case) filled with baby peas, turnips, and snow peas in a sauce spiked with Cote du Jura wine. It’s worth pointing out that people have strong feelings about L’Arpege — the restaurant has its share of critics, including Eater’s own Ryan Sutton.
Sitting at the highest point in Paris like an ornamental decoration, the Basilique Sacre-Coeur has a special aura. Its alabaster facade blends Romanesque and Byzantine styles, and from far away, it looks like a wedding cake (which is its nickname). Inside the Basilica, the striking mosaic of Christ with a flaming heart gives the sanctuary an emotional and spiritual intensity, fitting for a church that was created as a symbol of hope after the Franco-Prussian War. The sanctuary is illuminated with many candles, which provide a contrast to the dark, somber space. Visitors can spend time on the terrace admiring the views of Paris or climb the tower for an even higher perspective. The Esplanade that leads up (by a staircase of over 200 steps) to the Sacre-Coeur church is a popular area for people to hang out and is often animated by street musicians. Read even more info on Paris travel blog.
Paris shopping pick : Rue Saint Dominique, Rue de Grenelle & Rue Cler The village-like charms, excellent boutiques, cafes and pretty streets that you’ll discover in the 7th arrondissement between the Champ de Mars gardens and the Esplanade des Invalides makes this our favorite neighborhood in Paris. Most of our apartments are located nearby, where you’ll experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle that we love. Enjoy strolling along the Rue Saint Dominique and Rue de Grenelle, both lined with lovely shops, restaurants and cafes. Be sure to walk up and down the small cross streets as you explore this neighborhood.
Created between 1755 and 1775 by the architect of King Louis XV, this impressive octagonal square is at the heart of 18th-century Paris. With its majestic dimensions, the Place de la Concorde is one of the most attractive squares in the city. It was the scene of several key historical events, including the execution of King Louis XVI, and it was part of Napoleon’s triumphal route. The square offers sensational views of the triumphal route towards the Arc de Triomphe and the Defense, and towards the Louvre, as well as to the Madeleine and the Palais-Bourbon. At the center is an Egyptian obelisk, which was presented to Charles X by the Viceroy of Egypt. During summer, there is a Ferris wheel here. See extra info on https://francetravelblog.com/.