what to see and do in paris whilst on our paris & disneyland weekender
the eiffel tower
Built for the International Exhibition of Paris in 1889, which commemorated the centenary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is probably the best known French landmark. Standing at over 300 meters and weighing 7000 tons, the tower was one of the world's tallest buildings until 1930. The view over Paris from the top is breathtaking.
the arc de triomphe
The Arc De Triomphe was Commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon shortly after his victory at Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe was not finished until 1836. There are four huge relief sculptures at the base of the four pillars including the famous La Marseillaise by François Rude. The day the Battle of Verdun commenced in 1916 the sword carried by the figure representing the Republic broke off. The figure was immediately hidden to conceal the accident to try to avoid any undesired associations or interpretations as a bad omen. Engraved around the top of the arch are the names of major victories won during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame lies under the Arch.
notre dame cathedral
A masterpiece of gothic architecture designed by Maurice de Sully, Notre Dame was built between the 12th and the 14th centuries. Until the French Revolution the cathedral remained relatively unchanged. Admire the stunning building from the Place du Parvis or take the energetic 387 step climb to the top of the towers for an amazing view of the city. Check out the statuesque gargoyles adorning the cathedral.
the champs elysees
Central to most French National celebrations, the Champs Elysees is one of the world's most well known streets. The Tour de France finishes here and people from all over the world congregate here to celebrate Bastille Day the French national holiday. Stroll along its wide expanse and stop for a coffee in one of the chic cafes that line it.
the sacré coeur
The Sacré Coeur is one of Paris's best known landmarks after the Eiffel Tower. Built by public subscription after the 1870 defeat in the Franco Prussian war, the Sacré Coeur Basilica's grand collection of 19th century sculptures, architecture, and paintings provide a wonderful insight into the history of that century. Climb the steep steps up to the church and take in the amazing views over the city.
the louvre
Philippe Auguste originally constructed the Louvre as a royal palace in 1190, and it was only after the French Revolution that the idea of transforming it into a huge art museum was discussed. The Louvre eventually opened on 18th November 1793. Today the Louvre is one of the most beautiful museums in the world, housing collections from nearly every era and every major artist throughout history. To see the collection in its entirety is a mammoth task. To make the most of a visit, you will need at least a day to see it. Arrive early to avoid the queues.
the latin quarter
One of the most famous Parisian districts, the Latin quarter has welcomed intellectuals and bohemians alike since the Middle Ages. It derives its name from the language of the scholars as the students of the famous Sorbonne University spoke Latin here throughout the 19th century. The area is full to the brim with cafes, bookshops, small boutiques, nightclubs, street merchants and artists. The area is also the historical site of various political uprisings, one of which was the student revolt of May 1968. If you want to find the real Paris then don't miss this hip, young, and vibrant area.
georges pompidou centre
The Pompidou Centre is one of the most spectacular and controversial modern buildings in Paris. It was designed with the aim of bringing art and culture to the people on the street. Its 1977 factory style architecture starkly contrasts with the surrounding classical French architecture. The centre is multifunctional, containing a public library and the French National Museum of Modern Art which has a large collection of paintings spanning the 20th century. These include works by artists such as Picasso, Braque, Max Ernst, Magritte, Chagall, Matisse, Delaunay, Kandinsky, Klee and much more. Throughout the day there are usually colourful displays of street theatre for both adults and children.
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