Paris has become heavily dependent on tourism, often at the cost of French culture. One example: Moulin Rouge cabaret-dancehall has evolved into an elaborate dinner theater spectacle featuring staged dance displays with minimal similarities to its former atmosphere.
Keep in mind that waiters in sidewalk cafes may not visit regularly, so make sure to signal if anything needs attention.
History
Paris region is France’s most populous and serves as a center for manufacturing, finance, tourism, insurance, government and high-tech production. Famous landmarks of this area include Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and Louvre Museum – it was even home to major battles during World War II before experiencing revitalization efforts through major construction projects.
Information regarding the early history of Lutetia is scarce, though historians speculate it was first settled around 300 BC by Gaulish warriors called Parisii, followed by Roman control renaming it Lutetia after several centuries (it is thought they built an arena there).
In the 3rd century, Paris began to experience waves of barbarian invasions from various barbarian armies. Legend has it that Attila the Hun was stopped from plundering Gaul by an unlikely source: an imploring prayer from a peasant girl saved her village against Attila the Hun while ravaging Gaul in mid 400s; she eventually became Paris’ patron saint in 509 and remains part of its identity today.
Paris managed to recover after WWI and WWII almost unscathed, becoming an international cultural hub during the 1920s with artists from all over the world settling there – such as Russian composer Igor Stravinsky, French painters Picasso and Dali and American author Ernest Hemingway all finding refuge there. During the 60s more dramatic social changes took place; students joined together in a general strike which paralyzed their university (Sorbonne), barricades were erected around Latin Quarter buildings, barricades were built around Sorbonne and students and workers participated in an extended general strike; students joined together in this paralyzing general strike and occupation; Parisians still refer to these years as “les Annees Foulles” (“the crazy years”). Modern history of Paris is defined by French Revolution of 1789 followed by Reign of Terror which saw Louis XVI execution and Marie Antoinette’s arrest at Versailles prison (including Louis XVI’s execution and Marie-Antoinette’s death there). This period witnessed Marie Antoinette’s execution followed by Versailles prison cells that saw Louis XVI executed and Marie Antoinette’s death from imprisonment (both executed at Versailles), followed by Marie Antoinette) until her execution (including her death). Parisians still refer to this time when Marie-Antoinettain with Marie XIV executed, Marie Antoinettte’s death imprisonment there) at Versailles). Antoinets death). XVI’s imprisonment). s death.
Architecture
Neoclassicism was popular during the 19th century, featuring straight architectural profiles with strong lines punctuated by simple curves. Additionally, this period saw the birth of modern architecture movement and professional architects emerging.
Napoleon III appointed Baron Georges-Eugene Haussmann to completely renovate Paris in 1852. As a result, wide boulevards dotted with sober, elegant stone apartment buildings that redefined and unified its look were created along with new parks, squares, kiosks and street lamps – not forgetting opulent Palais Garnier opera house!
Haussmann’s vision gave Paris its distinctive urban vibe, and his architecture still defines the 20 arrondissements that form its heart today. You can still witness his style today in townhouses such as 3 rue Volta featuring continuous balconies wrapping around third and sixth floor apartments as well as gray zinc mansard roofs tilted at an angle to maximize sunlight; also look out for six-story apartment blocks designed in this neo-Haussmannian style such as those located along boulevard Mozart and 185 avenue Daumesnil!
Paris’ modern-era architects have made an immeasurable mark. The Eiffel Tower gracefully rises into the air without needing support structures and its glass pyramid entrance at the Louvre is truly remarkable. Additionally, you’ll find innovative designs in contemporary buildings like Centre Pompidou with its inside-out structure or Seine Musicale; two examples being notable.
Even older structures have been transformed to meet evolving lifestyles, with homeowners now breaking down walls to create open-plan living space between formal dining and living rooms, for instance.
Shopping
Paris offers great shopping from boutiques and specialty stores to high-end department stores. Of course, the iconic shops deserve their fame; but make time to discover lesser known boutiques, flea markets, or historical areas that specialize in unique souvenirs for an alternative experience.
Rue Saint-Honore provides the ultimate luxury shopping experience, stretching for more than one mile in the first arrondissement. Here you will find an abundance of designer boutiques such as Valentino, Chloe and Gucci among many others; Cartier and David Yurman may even pop up now and again for good measure.
Le Marais is an excellent destination for shoppers on a tight budget. Boasting vintage shops and small boutiques offering chic merchandise, Le Marais makes an ideal place for finding unique souvenirs to bring back home as well as essentials like shoes or sunglasses.
Many of our apartments in the 6th and 7th arrondissements are conveniently situated close to Le Bon Marche – a must for classic Parisian department store shopping with its vast food hall! For something a bit glitzier, Galeries Lafayette Champs Elysees should not be missed!
Food
Paris offers an abundance of food options, from quick bites to full meals, catering for every palate and every budget. Street vendors sell delicious street fare at cheap prices while grocery store meals and gourmet restaurants can provide more luxurious cuisine. While credit cards are widely accepted across most establishments in Paris, rural areas and street markets may only accept cash payments; so be sure to bring along some Euros for these situations.
On a budget, sandwiches, salads and quiches can be found at many boulangeries and cafes for EUR6-8 each. A popular option among brasseries, the famous French croque monsieur sandwich can be ordered hot from pain de mie or baguette with Paris ham inside and melted Gruyere cheese on top; either way it makes for an unforgettable dining experience!
Onion soup is an unforgettable classic French dish, perfect for warming you up during those long, cold winter days. Once served to workers at markets as an energy boost, today it has become popular with both locals and tourists alike.
France is famous for its delicious cuisine that is both healthy and fresh, using only fresh ingredients such as local vegetables. As well as enjoying all-you-can-eat dishes made from scratch with these fresh ingredients, why not sample some of France’s acclaimed wines too!
Farmers’ markets can also help you save money, offering delicious and authentic ethnic street food at a fraction of the cost of an expensive restaurant. You could even pack yourself a picnic in one of the city parks!
Nightlife
Paris offers visitors plenty of opportunities for dancing and partying – from clubs and cabarets to all-night parties – but can be daunting for visitors unfamiliar with its nightlife scene. A great place to begin exploring Paris nightlife would be in one of Paris’ many arrondissements; particularly 3rd, 10th or 11th arrondissements which boast plenty of bars that attract both locals and tourists alike.
At the 20th arrondissement you will also find great bars such as Pere Lachaise Cemetery’s bar at its southern end – perhaps one of the best places in town for punk rock – along with Montmartre and Montmartre West catering specifically to younger audiences. Additionally, Belleville boasts many alternative and artistic bars featuring live music and providing an alternative and chic night out experience.
Club Bonnie in Paris is an essential stop for free spirits and art enthusiasts, providing an intoxicating environment where dreams become reality.
Le Yoyo, another exceptional club in Paris, provides an unforgettable cultural experience through art, music, fashion and DJ events that draw young and energetic crowds.
Those interested in more traditional cabaret performances should make time to experience the Moulin Rouge show in Pigalle’s red light district, known for its cabaret dinner-show. With two distinct parts – dinner and show – this spectacular performance promises an unforgettable experience!