Paris Sightseeing

Arc De Triomphe

From the Place de la Concorde to the top of the Champs-Elysees, you will discover the Place de l'Etoile which is known today as the Place Charles de Gaulle. And, here lies the Arc de Triomphe.

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Eiffel Tower, Paris

Most important! Walk up this metal monstrosity, and don't take the cable car! Only by slowly walking up step by step through the belly of this giant monument, can you get a real feel for its history and magnitude. A Tourist Tip! - you can take the cable car down for free - no one checks the tickets on the way down!

The Eiffel Tower was built for the International Exhibition of Paris of 1889 commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII of England, opened the tower. Of the 700 proposals submitted in a design competition, Gustave Eiffel's was unanimously chosen.

There are 2 stages that you can walk up to, and to get to the very top, you need the cable car.

At each stage, you can sit down, and enjoy coffee - they do a good cappuccino!

At 300 meters (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930.

Many believe that the building is an eye sore:

"...the tower was the greatest affront not only to the architecture of Paris, but also to the eye of the Parisian, for whom its structural logic and revolutionary aesthetic language were incomprehensible.

 

The Louvre

The Louvre is the largest and almost undoubtedly the most famous museum in the world. The building itself is 800 years old, and the treasures within it represent centuries of priceless works of art. You will need more than a day to take in this huge masterpiece. The very rooms that house paintings and sculpture are amazing works of art in and of themselves, with ornate ceilings and rich decoration. 

 

Notre Dame

A Gothic masterpiece situated in the heart of Paris. Entrance is free, and the mass is highly recommended. At the end of the ceremony, there is a procession through the narrow surrounding streets. 

Constructed in three stages, the cathedral was completed in 1250.This period witnessed Paris coming into its own force as a center of political power and commerce. No expense was spared in creating a church that would reflect the capital's newly won prestige.

A nice way to arrive is by river boat along The Seine. When you disembark, take a few moments to marvel at the artists along the river , who for a few Francs will sketch your portrait.

 

Pompidou Center

An affront to Paris! An ugly monstrosity stuck among the 18th century streets that surround it. The poor Parisians who have to wake up to this building every morning.

For others, a fascinating museum of modern art. A place to gather outside and watch the street performers at work - much like London's Covent Garden.

Sacre Coeur

The Sacre-Coeur Catholic  was built at the end of the 19th century at the top of  Montmartre hill in Paris. Its famous white  architecture dominates the city, and offers a wonderful view. The nearby streets of Montmarte are full of artists and restaurants. 

 

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