Paris Top Ten Attractions

Paris, one of the most famous and historical capital cities, has much to tempt the discerning visitor. Her are ten of my favourite must-see attractions of the most romantic city in the world.

THE EIFFEL TOWER

If you’re looking at an image of Paris, the chances are that you’ll be seeing the world famous iconic tower that has become synonymous with the city. Over six million visitors annually make their way to the tower. If you are going to be amongst them, make sure you take the lift to the top, to enjoy stunning views of the city.

THE LOUVRE

This could possibly be the most famous art museum in the world, largely due to Leonardo de Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’. First opened in 1793, The Louvre is one of the oldest museums in Europe receiving almost six million visitors a year.

POMPIDEU CENTRE

If it’s modern art that turns you on, then the Pompideu Centre is for you. Apart from the art, there is a cinema, concerts and other varied activities to entertain both children and adults. The visitor numbers are up there with the best too, being only slightly less than the Eiffel Tower.

CITE DES SCIENCES ET DE L’INDUSTRIE

Built on a site that was formely an abattoir, this science museum was built to inform visitors about matters of science and technology. Much like its counterpart in London, many of the exhibits are of a ‘hands-on’ nature. The building itself was designed by Adrien Fainsilber and carries the five themes of water and earth, the universe, communication, industry and man. Two and a half million people pass through its doors each year.

MUSEE D’ORSAY

Not in the same league size wise as The Louvre, but if you like impressionist painting, you will prefer the Musee D’Orsay. More than two million visitors annually flock to the former railway station that houses the collection.

ARC DE TRIOMPHE

In 1806 Napolean had the idea to build the famous arch to commemorate his victories, but unfortunately he received the order of the boot before he could see its completion. In fact, the arch wasn’t finished until 1836 under the rule of Louis Philippe, although it still carries the names of Napolean’s generals. It is possible to climb to the top of this monument, and although it isn’t as high as the Eiffel Tower, the views are still worth seeing.

NOTRE DAME

Esmeralda, Esmeralda, you must see Notre Dame, one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. This is another national treasure that you can climb, so make sure you’re fit before you go. But who wouldn’t want to stand where Quasimodo stood, on the north tower. This really is one of Paris’ top attractions, and is usually on every visitors list.

THE SORBONNE AND LATIN QUARTER

Founded in 1257, The Sorbonne University is the hub of the historic Latin Quarter and has helped to mould the minds of such great thinkers as Simone de Beauvoir, Rene Descartes and Jean Paul Satre. It’s great fun finding your way through the labyrinthine streets of the Latin Quarter.

SAIL DOWN THE SEINE

Everyone loves a boat trip, well almost everyone, and with the historical, dramatic scenery on each bank, even the bad sailors should enjoy this. To add an extra element of romanticism, go in the evening and enjoy the lights shimmering on the water. A one hour trip is a great way to see the city from a different viewpoint. Make sure you take your camera.

DISNEYLAND RESORT PARIS

Situated thirty-two kilometres from the centre of the city, Disneyland Resort has two theme parks, an entertainment district and seven hotels. It opened its doors to the public in 1992 and was only the second complex of its kind to open outside the United States, Tokyo being the first. Over fifteen million eager visitors beat a path to its doors every year. At first controversial, the company had to wait until 1995 to see its first profits, but now it is one of the top destinations in Europe.

There is of course, much more than this to enjoy in Paris. A coffee in a street side café could turn out to be the abiding memory from your holiday, but whatever your likes and dislikes, there is certainly something for everyone in this enduring city.