Paris is known to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From the subway to the famous monuments, Paris is many a tourist’s dream vacation. If you have the chance to go to Paris, make it a point to visit these popular places.
Eiffel Tower
If it’s not the most famous landmark in Paris, the Eiffel Tower has to be the most prominent. Standing slightly more than 320m, you can enjoy panoramic views of Paris at the top of the tower. Visited by over 200 million people, the Eiffel Tower was erected for the International Exhibition of Paris in 1889 to celebrate the 100th year of the French Revolution.
Champs Elysees
Touted as “The most beautiful avenue in the world,†the Champs Elysees is populated by high end retail stores, restaurants, cafés, hotels, theatres, and cinemas. About 2km in length, it’s a mesmerizing scene at night with neon lights and endless possibilities. The Champs Elysees is also the final leg of the Tour de France.
Notre Dame Cathedral
A great example of the French Gothic style, construction of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris began in 1163. Highly detailed sculptures, stained windows by Jacques Le Chevalier, towers, flying buttresses, and the 7,800-piped Great Organ are some of the unique characteristics of the cathedral. It was famously featured in Victor Hugo’s classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Versailles
Located in the suburbs of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When Louis XIV came to power, he made Versailles his seat of power. With more than 51,000 square meters of floor space, the Palace of Versailles is now a cultural center of the arts.
Stade de France
France’s national stadium, the Stade de France was originally built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup where France was crowned the world champions. The Stade de France has 80,000 seats, hosting a number of high profile sporting events like the Rugby World Cup Final, the UEFA Champions League, the Race of Champions, and a series of concerts by the most famous acts in the world.
Palais Royal
Located near the Louvre, the Palais Royal was the royal palace where young King Louis XIV and Philippe stayed during the Fronde. The gardens of the palace offer great respite for visitors.
Place des Vosges
A perfect square of 140 square meters, the Place des Vosges was constructed from 1605 to 1612. Formerly the Place Royale, it is Paris’ oldest square. Some of the famous residents of the Place des Vosges include Victor Hugo, Mme de Sevigné, and Marion Delorme.
UNESCO Building
The headquarters of UNESCO, the UNESCO Building in Paris is a supreme example of modern architecture. Designed by Marcel Breuer of the USA, Pier Luigi Nervi of Italy, and Bernard Zehrfuss of France, it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Paris.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is located in the suburbs of Paris. The oldest church in Paris, it was the place where the Merovingian kings of Nuestria were buried. René Descartes’ tomb can be found here.