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Sightseeing in Paris

The first choice of many visitors to the city, entirely justifiably, is a trip to one of the world’s most important museums, the Louvre. This museum is a monument to human creativity over the centuries, with thousands of masterpieces on exhibit. It attracts over 10,000,000 visitors annually, who come here to admire the exquisite curves of the Venus de Milo, the famous smile of the Mona Lisa, and much more. Tip: Book your tickets online to avoid the hassle of waiting in the long queues.

The imposing gothic Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris, Our Lady of Paris, is currently undergoing restoration after the great fire of April 2019. Although it is damaged, Notre Dame can still be seen in the centre of the city from the banks of the River Seine. It is currently closed to visitors.

One of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, the wrought-iron Eiffel Tower, was built in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle held in Paris that year, at the time dividing opinion amongst the Parisians. If you choose to go right up to the top, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view.

The Musée d'Orsay is housed in one of the most beautiful buildings, the arts nouveau former railway station of Paris. Its splendid collections contain works from the 19th century, including masterpieces by the great impressionists Claude Monet and Paul Cézanne and by Vincent Van Gogh.

Centre Pompidou: a monumental “hive” of culture in the Beaubourg area, which welcomes an average of 16,000 visitors a day! This post-modern, high-tech structure by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers revolutionised architecture in the 1970s. Visit the Musée National d'Art Moderne (National Museum of Modern Art), with works by artists from all over the world and be sure not to miss the pioneering temporary exhibitions.

Another symbol of the city, the Arc de Triomphe, is located in Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 radiating central avenues meet, including the elegant Avenue des Champs-Élysées. It was created to glorify the victorious army of Napoleon. Today it symbolises the victories of France. A stunning view can be enjoyed from its summit.

Watch a performance or go on a guided tour of the imposing Opera Garnier, one of the most famous opera houses in the world, and admire the ceiling of the central hall, painted by Mark Chagall.

Musée Rodin in Meudon. Auguste Rodin’s house and studio have been converted into a delightful museum which contains the largest collection of sculptures by the artist. The museum is surrounded by a beautiful garden adorned with outdoor sculptures by the artist, such as “The Thinker”.

What to do in Paris

For a different view of Paris, take a cruise in one of the Bateaux Mouches boats along the Seine. If you want an even more impressive experience go at night, when Paris is all lit up.

Hire a bicycle and explore the city through its extensive network of cycle lanes. Organised guided bicycle tours are also available.

If you would like to discover the picturesque Paris of other eras, then a trip up the hill of Montmartre is a must. From here you will be able to admire the all-white Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur at the peak of the hill. Continuing along the romantic lanes you will come to the house of Dalida, the bars of Toulouse-Lautrec, Moulin Rouge and, if you are lucky, may also encounter some bohemian street musicians and artists.

Paris has some amazing green spaces that it is well worth taking in during your walks. Don’t miss the Jardin du Luxembourg and Tuileries Gardens, the Bois de Boulogne, the Bois de Vincennes and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Tip: in the Bois de Boulogne, you will find the building of the Fondation Louis Vuitton, the recent impressive creation by the great architect Frank Gehry, with permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Take a stroll along the central Rue de Rivoli, the narrow streets running off which lead to the historic district of Le Marais. Don’t miss the beautiful small square of Place des Vosges, where you will find the house in which Victor Hugo lived (today a museum) and the impressive Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris.

To the east of the city is the Parc de la Villette, a huge amusement park with gardens, children’s play areas and cafes which also includes a concert hall (the Philharmonie de Paris), the City of Science and Industry and the fascinating Musée de la Musique. The famous jazz festival is held at Villette each September.

Excursions near Paris

A little outside of the centre of Paris is the grand and luxurious palace of Versailles, built by King Louis XIV in 1634. In addition to the palace, you can enjoy a stroll through its stunning gardens.

Take a trip to Disneyland, a paradise for young and old. This impressive amusement park is located 32 km west of Paris, in the suburb of Marne-la-Vallée, and can be reached by road or by train.

The museum of Camille Claudel in Nogent-sur-Seine, which opened in 2017, is dedicated to the uncompromising artist and fine sculptor. Located in the house in which Claudel lived from 1876 until 1879, it contains the largest collection of her works.

Food and Entertainment

A gastronomic paradise for demanding foodies, France’s famous cuisine can be enjoyed in the hundreds of bistros and cafes of Paris. Try crepes, soups, seafood, duck confit and every French speciality that you can consume!

Have an ice cream in the historic Parisian ice cream parlours along Boulevard Reuilly while in the patisseries of the beautiful Île Saint-Louis you will find handmade tarts and chocolates.

Come and enjoy a drink in the bars of Marais with its sociable atmosphere while in the bars of Saint Germain you can sample French wines and champagnes

Getting to the airport / Useful Information

You will land in Paris at Charles de Gaulle International Airport, 25 km northeast of the city. The fastest way to reach the city centre from the airport is with the RER suburban railway system, which stops at different central Paris stations that connect to the underground metro system. You can also take the Roissy bus to Opéra station. If you take a taxi, please note that the fares can be fairly high.

A destination that oozes beauty and with a plethora of choices for every visitor, Paris is perfect for a short city break or a vacation of several days. Discover the offers on flights and hotels at https://www.olympicair.com and travel to Paris, in comfort and with your trip fully planned!