What to see and do in Paris
Eiffel Tower
Iconic and unmissable, the Eiffel Tower has become synonymous with romance, but it was actually built to commemorate the French Revolution. Climb winding stairs or ascend the elevator to emerge on one of two levels; the first is filled with bistros and the second is a viewing platform. In fair weather, it’s sometimes possible to ride right to the top.
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is not only stunning but has some of the best parking facilities in Paris – you’ll find several lots inside the grand estate, plus more on the perimeters. See King Louis XIV’s exuberant apartments, the famous Hall of Mirrors and exhibits on the history of France.
Disneyland Paris
Close proximity to one of Europe’s largest theme parks is a key reason to visit Paris. Aside from the famous fairytale castle, highlights include the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain.
Best hotels in Paris
Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel
Overlooking the best-known street in Paris – the Champs Élysées – this luxe Marriott hotel is close to all the key city centre attractions. The facade looks classically French, but inside the hotel boasts modern soundproofed rooms equipped with music stations, plus neon-lit dining areas.
Hotel de Berri
Urban retreats don’t get much more relaxing than Hotel de Berri, which has its own private park complete with 100-year-old trees. The rooms place a contemporary stamp on traditional Parisian style; there are freestanding tubs and marble fireplaces, but also Apple TVs.
Le Bristol Paris
For something grand, book a room at Le Bristol Paris. With its marble floors, rooftop swimming pool and rooms fit for royalty, reservations don’t come cheap. Still, this hotel is set in one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Paris, where designer boutiques create the perfect stomping ground for shopping vacations.
Best places to eat in Paris
Au Bourguignon du Marais
Beef bourguignon is the specialty at this small but distinguished restaurant just north of the Seine. Not only is the staple stew heralded for its melt-in-the-mouth cuts of beef – it’s also served in rustic pots and topped with smoky bacon.
Le Cinq
The Parisian dining scene is known for its decadence. At Le Cinq, it’s easy to see why: this restaurant has three Michelin stars, plus lavish décor, complete with chandeliers and palm trees.
La Crêperie Bretonne Fleurie de l’Épouse du Marin
This simple pancake shop has a sea theme to match its extravagant name – which means ‘flower-filled Breton crêperie run by the sailor’s wife’. As you might expect, there’s plenty of personality in its sweet and savoury dishes, which are made from Breton buckwheat.
Best museums in Paris
Louvre Museum
This vast museum is known for housing the Mona Lisa, a Da Vinci painting that shot to fame following its theft in 1911. Today, the recognizable half-smile is protected by bulletproof glass – and for a photo, you’ll need to join the line.
Army Museum
The French national military museum has impactful exhibits on both world wars, plus battles from earlier periods. Still, the star attraction is the Dome, a former royal chapel, which now contains the tomb of Napoleon.
Paris Catacombs
The city’s eeriest attraction is set far beneath the streets. The Paris Catacombs is an underground graveyard dating back to the 18th century. There’s an adjoining museum detailing the tunnel’s journey from quarry to ossuary and work of art.