Get the best from your Paris vacation

by Abelia F Duxbury

Although it isn’t a well publicized fact, Paris is the second largest European city; ideally situated along the banks of the river Seine. Almost everyone taking a European vacation will decide on a short stay in Paris; you can never become bored in this beautiful city.

This city is also equally well known for its gothic architecture and markets; the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre must not go unmentioned. Traveling through the city of Paris can be very enjoyable; the Metro underground train network will probably be the main method as it runs regularly and reaches every part of the city.

It wouldn’t be possible to visit this city without a trip to the top of the famous steel structure known as the Eiffel Tower; it can be seen from any point within the city and the superb views just can’t be matched by those looking at it from the ground. At night, it comes alive with lights that have to be seen to be believed; guided tours add to the thrill as you get to peek into history on how it was constructed.

A walk along the Champs Elysees is essential when you visit Paris; it will present you with many famous designer shops and good restaurants. This avenue is well worth a visit to see how the wealthy live; the exclusive five star hotels situated in this more select part of the city might be out of most visitors’ price range.

This city is also the home to the renowned Louvre Museum; it houses over three hundred thousand exhibits but not all of them are ever on display at the same time. There are so many exhibits here they cannot all be viewed during a short stay in Paris; the Venus de Milo is displayed here and of course the Mona Lisa. Over the years, Paris has been home to many of the world’s famous artists; chances are that you will have the opportunity to see a number of famous paintings whilst you’re visiting.

Of course, Napoleon commissioned the construction of the Arc de Triomphe, another Paris landmark; the names of his generals are engraved on its surface and another of those ‘must have’ photo land marks. It also features an observatory to take in surrounding views; it can be found in Charles de Gaulle Place at the intersection of twelve avenues including the Champs Elysees.

Certainly it is not fair to believe that these are the only places in the city worth visiting; and whilst there are many more worthy examples, those listed here should not be missed. It is fair to say that you won’t see everything on a Paris short stay of two or even three day break; what you aren’t able to this time will have to wait for another occasion.

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Of course knowing some basic French would greatly enhance your Paris holiday and you can now even learn French online which would make your vacation more enjoyable