Travel Guide

Paris

Paris is within easy reach of London, but in terms of the attitude of its population and its overall ambience it could be a million miles away. That is probably why so many Britons are attracted to a city that offers its own unique vitality and outlook on the world. Regardless of how many times you may have visited Paris there is always something new to do; another new attraction or activity that adds another insight into the way that Parisians live their colourful lives.

Of course, the most iconic image associated with the city of Paris is the Eiffel Tower. Built to promote the 1889 World Fair it has proved to be one of the most enduring Paris landmarks and has shown amazing resilience for a structure intended to be a temporary construction. Now, in its 120th year the Eiffel Tower continues to attract millions of visitors each year.

A visit to the celebrated Louvre and its most famous exhibit, the Mona Lisa, is a must for any visitor to the City of Light. Regardless of how many times you may have been to Paris there is always something new to see in this magnificent museum. Aside from Old Masters’ paintings, the Louvre also regularly features touring exhibitions of world art alongside its fantastic permanent exhibits that showcase thousands of Egyptian, Roman and Greek artefacts.

A stroll down the magnificent Champs-Elysees is also highly recommended to immediately immerse yourself in the unique ambience of this magnificent city. And for an experience only available in Paris, a trip to the hills of Montmartre is a must. It was here that the vertically challenged artist Toulouse Lautrec infamously indulged in activities that would make a modern day hedonist blush. It is also home to the Moulin Rouge; featuring consummate dance artistes donning flamboyant and highly feathered costumes. So, you can get caught up in the excitement and drink in the Bohemian atmosphere of this most Parisian of districts.

However, one of the biggest attractions of this beautiful city is that it is so easy to reach. There are abundant daily flights to Paris landing at either Orly or Roissy-Charles De Gaulle and conveniently taking just under an hour from London; whether planned or on the spur of the moment getting to Paris should not be too difficult. With there being so much to see and do in Paris all year round, the most difficult aspect may be deciding when is the best time to visit.