Paris

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Paris

A December 2001 trip to Paris by Globe

Eiffel TowerMore Photos

Paris is one of the most famous cities in the world, and for good reason. Although I had heard mixed opinions, I found it to be one of the most beautiful, pleasant cities I have ever seen.

  • 6 reviews
  • 7 photos

ParisBest of IgoUgo

Overview

Cathedrale de Notre-Dame
Paris is full of amazing monuments, museums, and famous sights. While it would take years to see everything, even a well-planned short trip can allow you to see much of what the city offers.

Quick Tips:

The clue to seeing Paris is to have a good map, or even better, someone to guide you around. You can save time and get the most out of your visit if you plan ahead and choose what you most want to see.

Best Way To Get Around:

The city center is large, but walking allows you to see the little details you would otherwise miss. The Metro is also a good option for getting across town. Only drive if you are very brave and don't mind spending time looking for parking spots.

Crepe StandsBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "Crepes stands"

Food in Paris is very expensive, and one way to save some pennies is to grab snacks from the street vendors. Although this may sound less than desirable, the best food I had in Paris was a Nutella-filled crepe from a vendor near Centre Pompidou. In addition to being cheap, this approach to dining gives you more time to see the attractions, rather than spending hours indoors, eating in the typical French fashion.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Globe on February 2, 2002

Crepe Stands
Place Contrascarpe Paris, France

Seine Boat Tours / Dinner CruiseBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Boat tour"

View from the Boat tour
A boat tour is the best way to see a lot of the city in a short time. By moving down the Seine in one direction and then turning around, you can see and hear about the sights on both sides of the river. The audio descriptions were given in French, English, German, and Italian and provided historical details and current uses of the many buildings and monuments. The whole tour lasted approximately 90 minutes.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Globe on February 2, 2002

Seine Boat Tours / Dinner Cruise
Seine River Paris, France

Eiffel TowerBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Eiffel Tower
Of course, no visit to Paris is complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower. The Tower can be seen from many locations around the city, but it is also worth a closer look. After seeing it on TV and in pictures, just seeing it in person was amazing. Something that was not amazing, however, was the waiting time to take the elevator to the top. In addition, the prices were outrageous, even if you climbed the steps to the first level. After deciding that our time could be better spent elsewhere, we skipped the trip to the top, but still enjoyed the views from the ground. If you have your heart set on getting to the top, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Globe on February 2, 2002

Eiffel Tower
Champ de Mars Paris, France 75007
+33 (1) 44112345

Avenue des Champs-ElyséesBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Champs Elysees"

Although it is highly touristic, a stroll down Champs Elysees is an essential part of your trip. Start at the Place de la Condorde and work your way to the Arc de Triomphe. Along the way, pop into the many stores. Some, such as BMW and Peugot, look more like small museums, with the latest additions to their product lines on display. If you are looking for English books or magazines, try the Virgin superstore, which has a wide selection of both.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Globe on February 2, 2002

Avenue des Champs-Elysées
Avenue des Champs-Elysées Paris, France 75008

Basilique du Sacré-CoeurBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Sacre Coeur - Montmartre"

Basilique du Sacre Coeur
The Basilique du Sacre-Coeur is beautiful both inside and outside. The architecture reflects that it is a more modern addition to the city. The inside is crowded with tourists, but is worth a look. On the outside, you get an amazing view of the city, if you can stand still long enough without being approached by the many vendors who set up their goods on the steps leading to the church. Around the corner, peruse the stands set up by local artists. If you have always wanted to have a portrait of yourself, this may be a good place to have it done.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Globe on February 2, 2002

Basilique du Sacré-Coeur
35, rue du Chevalier-de-la-Barre Paris, France 75018
+33 (1) 53 41 89 00

About the Writer

Globe
Globe
Salt Lake City, Utah

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