Paris, France

Paris probably doesn’t need introducing, but it’s worth it just to be able to discuss its unparalleled landmarks and atmosphere. What can really be said about the most romantic city in the world? As it turns out, plenty.

The incomparable river Seine winds its way through a beautiful sprawl of districts, each one of them the life and soul of France’s capital, yet possessing their own distinct characters and communities. It’s almost like a series of villages that have bonded together to become a breath-taking city which is revered the world over.

Brimming with high fashion, Michelin star restaurants, iconic artworks, and a wealth of history, Paris is host to 45 million tourists annually, and is estimated to be the most popular holiday destination of anywhere in the world. An enormous claim to make, certainly, but also one you’ll consider justify once you spend just a few hours touring the iconic streets of this incomparable city.

Sightseeing in Paris

The Louvre Museum

Paris is a city which is beautiful enough to not to be defined simply by its attractions, but there are landmarks that are utterly unmissable nonetheless. The Palais du Louvre was originally constructed as a fortress as early as the 12th century, but today, the site is marked by the unmistakable glass pyramid which towers in front of the finest collection of artworks in the world.

Some 35,000 paintings and artistic objects fill every inch of the exhibition space. Alongside the iconic Mona Lisa, in recent years, the museum has expanded to include the crown jewels of Louis XV and Islamic art galleries in the restored Cour Visconti.

Notre Dame Cathedral

At the very heart of Paris, this masterpiece of French Gothic architecture has been photographed countless times, yet nothing compared to standing beneath its fairy tale and gazing upon it with your own eyes.

The curved buttresses and vividly carved gargoyles on its exterior make for an awe-inspiring sight, but just wait until you head indoors. Within the sublime confines of its vast vaulted interior, there are 10 metres wide rose tinted windows overlooking a 7,800 pipe organ, which have remained unchanged since the 13th century. The intricate detailing upon the main pillars and the religious image carvings are incredible, especially when you take one of the free tours which allows you to get up close to Notre Dame’s incredible features.

The Luxembourg Gardens

An oasis at the heart of the bustling centre of Paris, the Luxembourg gardens are filled with chestnut groves and perfectly manicured lawns. This is an ideal place in which to recline and soak up the atmosphere only Paris can provide.

Shopping in Paris

Where to start. Paris is known as the capital of fashion, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Amongst the pristine boulevard you’ll find the most ubiquitous of luxury clothing brands and not a few delightful surprises. Le Petite Robe Noire is home to the finest vintage couture clothing, all curated by collector Didier Ludot, who welcomes each and every visitor personally.

Eating out in Paris

The innumerable range of eateries in Paris means you can have the best of both worlds- from noveau chic to the most traditional of evening meals. Le Dome is an art deco tribute to the height of Parisian cuisine, with formally attired waiters and chandeliers hanging over the tables, a perfect place for a sophisticated dinner. Tokyo Eat on the other hand, represents the emerging modern funky dining scene emerging in Paris, with exquisite sushi and colourful tables making for a chic spectacular.