Paris was France’s capital from the Middle Ages until the French Revolution and home to both aristocratic gentry, later the bourgeoisie and intellectuals from across western Europe.
Live like a local! Paris rewards visitors who treat it like their home; trying to see three museums in one day would be foolish. Sit and watch life pass you by with a baguette in hand.
History
Paris has long been at the centre of French history, hosting major events such as riots and revolutions. Most notably in 1789 when popular discontent with France’s medieval-era ruling regime erupted into an 18-day revolt that ultimately brought down monarchy rule and set in motion the foundations of what later became the First Republic.
Bone fragments dating to around 8000 BC provide evidence of human occupation in Paris, while its history began during the Middle Ages when work on Notre Dame Cathedral started in 1253 and Marais marshland was drained and settled. Unfortunately, Paris experienced its greatest population peak from 1348-1436 due to 36 plague outbreaks which killed one quarter of its residents.
Paris was at the forefront of French Wars of Religion (1562-1598), becoming a stronghold for Catholicism during that period. Following World War II bombing raids and clearing out of medieval structures from bomb damage, prosperity continued to expand into late 20th century Paris; its urban infrastructure improved further through openings such as Bibliotheque Nationale de France (1973) and Centre George Pompidou (1977).
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts). Each arrondissement has been assigned an identification number, starting in its center and winding out towards the east. Residents in each district identify landmarks and neighborhoods by number; Paris’s historical neighborhoods and districts have become famous for their architecture, culture and cuisine.
Sightseeing
Paris is full of fascinating attractions, from its world-famous Eiffel Tower to lesser-known gems that may only see limited visitors. To maximize your time here, take it slow: discover some hidden gems as part of the experience – but make time for lunch, strolls through neighborhoods or simply relaxing on the grass between experiences!
Attractions to Paris on foot include meandering along its charming covered passageways and spending an afternoon exploring them. These are wonderful shopping venues filled with hidden gems like niche toyshops, jewelry makers and fine food stores; one such passageway, Passage Jouffroy just behind Galeries Lafayette offers various specialty toyshops as well as chocolate stores and an antique walking stick boutique.
Other top sightseeing picks in Paris are the Musee d’Orsay with its incredible impressionist paintings by Monet, Van Gogh and Matisse as well as its neoclassical Hotel de Ville with its majestic exterior design.
Or take in the modernity of Renzo Piano’s Centre Pompidou, designed and completed in 1977 by architect Renzo Piano. Known for its striking “inside-out” appearance, this museum has become one of the city’s most photographed sites; for those unable to attend its museum itself, some parts are open for public access – especially its “little belt” (La Petite Ceinture) running along twelfth through twentieth arrondissements.
Just a short stroll away, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a refreshing green oasis rarely encountered on tourist itineraries. Boasting meandering paths, waterfalls and temples this nineteenth arrondissement beauty makes for a real treat!
Nightlife
Paris comes alive at night, becoming an epicenter of after-dark culture. From luxurious bars offering cocktails and jazz to hip dance clubs with open air terraces – Paris provides an impressive variety of nocturnal options that truly will keep you occupied late into the night!
Pop In is the go-to party spot in Paris for young locals looking for a relaxing environment offering delicious beer and music in a friendly environment. Additionally, this venue hosts live shows for an affordable nightlife experience!
Paris would not be complete without experiencing one of its legendary clubs – such as Club Jangal. Here, music and lights blend to create a truly memorable experience, enhanced by carefully considered lighting and visual projections that add atmosphere while welcoming staff ensure every visitor feels part of a family environment.
The nightclub features an entertaining programme designed to appeal to everyone. With everything from ’80s nostalgia nights and new wave performances to electronic dance music events and electronic DJ sets – you are certain to find something suitable. Three floors provide maximum energy and excitement!
If you are visiting from abroad, keep in mind that French people tend to take offense when bouncers turn them away. Dress to impress; the more aesthetically pleasing your appearance is the greater your chance of passing a strict bouncer. Also bring an equal number of men and women – this will increase your chances of entering clubs as well as help eliminate any potential conflicts with bouncers.
Shopping
Paris’ elegant boutiques make even staunch anti-shoppers succumb to their charms, offering shoppers an extensive range of high-end items that combine design, history and culture into one city experience. Classic large chains sit alongside trendy smaller shops ensuring there is something available in Parisian shopping for every budget and taste.
Start your shopping adventure at the Forum des Halles, also known as “the belly of Paris.” Featuring clothing and jewelry stores as well as cosmetics stores and food vendors, as well as restaurants and cinemas for added enjoyment, it offers shoppers plenty of retail activity just steps from metro stops.
Next stop should be Galeries Lafayette – a massive three interconnected art nouveau buildings housing top designer fashion brands as well as gourmet shops and home goods. Allow yourself plenty of time in either morning or afternoon to explore this renowned destination’s diverse selection of luxury brands and department store staples.
Bon Marche offers more traditional left-bank department store shopping experience with classic pieces by French designers such as Isabel Marant and Cyril Lignac available here.
Saint-Ouen Flea Market is an unmissable experience for shoppers. This iconic market features antique furniture, strange objects and quirky trinkets – it is also the best way to gain insight into current Parisian trends – an LBD from Didier Ludot; perfume from Annick Goutal or Frederic Malle; or perhaps even a Kitsune sweatshirt are among several purchases that could give your home that Parisian touch that you’ve always desired!
Food
Food in France is more than simply sustenance; it is an integral part of their culture and an opportunity to celebrate life with loved ones. From artisanal bread and butter, to decadent pates, cheeses, and desserts – French cuisine has long been revered around the globe, drawing travelers from faraway lands seeking its famed cuisine. Paris itself draws visitors who come seeking its culinary offerings.
These days, Paris restaurants have an increasingly laidback ambience; while more formal establishments still feature stiff waiters with no energy or passion to offer, younger generation diners have injected new life and vibrancy into the dining scene. Many of Paris’ top eateries still serve classic French fare albeit with modern touches.
To dine like a local, choose a restaurant offering late seatings (around 10 p.m.), since few Parisians eat dinner before this time. Another way to connect with locals is to reserve a table in an “English section”, where often enough other out-of-towners dine too!
Steak tartare, one of Paris’ signature dishes, features raw beef combined with egg, capers, scallions and mustard to create an irresistibly flavorful dish. While available throughout Paris restaurants, the best place to experience steak tartare in town is Atelier Manger – be sure to make time to visit and experience this decadent delicacy for yourself!
Escargots, snails seasoned in Burgundy-style garlic, herbs, and butter, are an amazing and traditional French dish that many restaurants throughout New York serve up in various versions. From Roquefort cheese and truffle to curry paste and more – many restaurants in the city provide their own twist on this delectable specialty dish!