Paris, the capital of France, has been attracting tourists from all over the world every year. Also popularly known as “City of Light,” it illuminates as one of the popular destination with many attractions like Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral and many more exquisite examples of ancient and contemporary architecture. Located on River Seine in northern France, Paris was settled by the Parisii, a tribe who were captured by the Romans. Events like Industrial Revolution, the French Second Empire and the Belle Époque had great impact on France which stirred its development. During the reign of Napoleon III, Paris underwent massive renovation. Evolved as an important political, commercial, cultural and educational center, Paris is home to several renowned organizations like UNESCO, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris Club and Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.
Paris which is known as the ‘City of Lights,’ is the centre of some of the exquisite buildings which are perfect examples of both modern and traditional style of architecture. Paris attracts many people from all over the world who enjoy spending time getting the real touch pf Parisian beauty. There are many impressive buildings like
Some of the famous sights in Paris are:
- Notre Dame Cathedral- Notre Dame Cathedral is an ideal example of French Gothic cathedral.
- Eiffel Tower- Eiffel Tower is one of the famous landmarks of Paris which stands close to the River Seine.
- Louvre Museum- The Louvre Museum is one the finest museums in the world having an exclusive collection of art, art-history and culture.
- Sacré Coeur- Sacré Coeur is positioned on the highest point in Paris and is a magnificent church.
- Picasso Museum- It is a collection of artistic work by Picasso.
Paris is the city which is known for latest fashion activities. While passing through the streets of Paris, several shops and boutiques display variety of items. You can purchase various items like designer clothes, French leather handbag, crystal and chinawares, bed linens, perfumes, jewelry, teddy bears, jackets, gloves, music, books, electronic goods and many others.
Some of the most interesting shopping places in Paris are:
- Galeries Lafayette
- Champs Elysées
- Le Forum des Halles
- Samaritaine
- Printemps
Paris has three international airports vis. Charles de Gaulle International Airport, Orly International Airport and Beauvais which offers flight service to many international and domestic destinations. Train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare d’Austerlitz, Gare de l’Est, Gare de Lyon, Gare St Lazare and Gare Montparnasse connects Paris to Belgium, Netherlands, Cologne, Germany, UK, Spain, Portugal and many other European countries. Eurolines is a trans-European bus company connecting Paris to many European cities. Paris is also linked to French cities by several expressways and motorways.
To move around in Paris, metro can be one of the best ways though many locations in are not serviced with it. However, there are many bus routes which connect several locations of Paris, though there are not usually direct. Skating in the city pavements and the roads also tend to be a better way to explore Paris. Riding a bicycle may even be a good idea as Paris is bicycle friendly. Cars or taxis should be avoided though you might find them cheaper as the Paris roads are usually flooded with traffic.