Guide Note
Known as a city of "life, love and light," Paris is a European cultural and historical center.1 It is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.2
Fast Facts
- Country: France
- Language: French
- Population: 2,147,8573 (1999)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Country code: +33
- Area code: +01
- Time zone: GMT
- Average climate: 30-40°F (winter), 60-70°F (summer)4
Attractions
- Eiffel Tower: At 1,040 feet tall, the tower is one of the "most recognizable structures in the world."5 Concierge.com calls it a "fascinating" work of architecture, and the "quintessential symbol" of Paris.6
- Arc de Triomphe: 12 avenues intersect at this 19th century structure, also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier underneath.7 Visitors can climb the Arc for "amazing" views of Paris.8
- Notre-Dame: Considered a "great Gothic masterpiece" and a "moving" Christian structure, this cathedral features gargoyles along its towers.9
- Louvre: Often seen as the "grandest museum in the world," the showcased artwork includes the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.8
- Musée d'Orsay: Known best for its gallery of Impressionist paintings, this museum features the work of Renoir, Monet and Manet. Post-Impressionist paintings by Van Gogh and Cézanne are also displayed.10
- Palais Garnier: Fodor's states that this "opulent" opera house is an "outstanding jewel" of the city, notably an inspiration for The Phantom of the Opera.8
- Jardin du Luxembourg: An ideal spot for "people-watching,"11 this park is a "prime leisure spot" for the city's residents and visitors.8
- Jardin des Tuileries: The city's oldest public garden is right next to the Musée de l'Orangerie, a "must-see" according to Concierge.com.12
- Sacré-Coeur: A "well-loved" landmark in Paris, the basilica domes offer a "spectacular" panoramic view of the city.13
- Centre Georges Pompidou: Five attractions are housed in this "visually shocking" work of architecture:8 the National Museum of Modern Art, the Public Information Library, the Institute of Research and the Coordination of Acoustics/Music, the Center of Industrial Design and the Atelier Brancusi museum.14
Mahalo Suggests
If planning a trip, please see Paris Hotels, Paris Restaurants and Paris Tours.
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