Top places to see in Paris: When the Palais de Tokyo opened in 2002, many thought its no-frills aesthetic was something of a deliberate statement. In fact, it was for budgetary reasons. Happily, the venue has truly flourished since, hosting acclaimed exhibitions and performances in its open-plan space. Extended hours and a cool cafe bring in younger audiences, and the roll-call of artists is impressive (Roberto Braga, Wang Du, Theaster Gates and others). The name dates to the 1937 Exposition Internationale, but is also a reminder of links with a new generation of artists from the Far East.
Paris restaurant pick : The one haute-cuisine restaurant in Paris that’s really, truly worth it? L’Astrance. Chef Pascal Barbot has the most elegantly lyrical gastronomic imagination of any chef working in Paris today, and it’s expressed by dishes that are often spectacularly simple, like his buttermilk and burnt toast crumb soup. The dish is not always on the menu, but if you tell them you’re desperate for it when you make your reservation, Barbot and maitre d’hotel Christophe Rohat are such nice guys, they might make it for you. Otherwise, you should beg for the mille-feuille of white mushrooms, apple, and foie gras.
To truly soak up the alluring ambience of Paris, tourists should try taking a boat cruise along the Seine River. Besides being one of the most enjoyable things to do while visiting the city, Seine River Cruises allow tourists to see the sights from a different perspective. The Seine River bridges, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum look stunning from the viewpoint of a riverboat. While a daytime cruise allows tourists to appreciate the glory of the monuments brightened by sunshine, the most romantic experience is an evening cruise. After sunset, the city’s landmarks are illuminated, which creates a special effect, and somehow the city seems more magical. For a cruise that includes dinner, try the Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise. This four-hour sightseeing journey departs near the Eiffel Tour, and guests are treated to a gourmet three-course meal. Discover a few more info at Travel blog for Paris.
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.
A triumph of Gothic architecture, the Notre-Dame stands in the heart of Paris on the Ile de la Cite near the attractions of the Latin Quarter. An island in the Seine River, the Ile de la Cite is the historical and geographical center of Paris. On this small plot of land, the Romans built the Gallo-Roman city of Lutetia, and from the 6th century to the 14th century, the Kings of France resided here. The Notre-Dame Cathedral was founded in 1163 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) and Bishop Maurice de Sully, and the construction took more than 150 years. The cathedral was first created in Early Gothic style, while later additions (the west front and the nave) show the transition to High Gothic style. Tourists are immediately struck by the ornamental design of the facade, with its profusion of sculptures and gargoyles, while elaborate flying buttresses provide structural integrity for the enormous building. Look out for the 21 figures above the doorway in the Gallery of Kings, who lost their heads during the Revolution. (The heads are now on display in the Musee de Cluny.) See more info at FranceTravelBlog.com.