Tourist guide: what to do and see in Paris

Dozens of stalls offering prints, second-hand books, posters, paintings, old magazines and small antiques line the banks of the Seine and never fail to draw in a curious crowd of visitors. You’ll be able to pick up small, unusual souvenirs at very affordable prices. The City of Light simply wouldn’t be the same without the romantic and bohemian image of the bouquinistes , whose origins date back to the 16th century. In fact, it is thanks to this loose collection of booksellers and antique dealers that the Seine has been poetically described as “the only river in the world to flow between two bookshelves”. On the right of the river you’ll find these road-side stalls between Pont Marie and the Louvre, whilst on the left bank they are between the Quai de la Tournelle and the Quai de Voltaire.

If you’re looking for furniture restorers, luthiers, jewellers, tailors, embroiderers, upholsterers, carpenters or interior designers, you’ve come to the right place. This beautifully restored 19th century viaduct is now home to a highly-skilled set of craftsmen and women who repair antiques and also sell their own hand-made, traditionally crafted goods. You’ll find it on the Avenue Daumesnil in the Bastille area. You can also take a break from your shopping in one of its vibrant cafés or restaurants. To get an idea of the work carried out and a guide to what’s on, visit www.viaduc-des-arts.com.

The open-air markets turn out to be another of the great attractions of the City of Light. There are all kinds and conditions, although perhaps some of the most striking are the Île de la Cité Market and the Saint Ouen Flea Market. The first of them rises in the Place Louise Lépine and its object is the sale of flowers. It is the oldest market in all of Paris, in operation since 1808. On Sundays, it extends its offer from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. to also sell all kinds of birds. The second market can be found in the Montmartre neighborhood. Very crowded on Saturdays and Sundays, it mainly exhibits clothing and antiques, but also jewelry and all kinds of vintage items. It can boast of being the largest market in all of Europe, with nearly 2,500 stalls to its credit. Check their schedules at www.les-puces.com.

This is one of the most expensive places to live in the city, with an unrivalled literary and intellectual heritage. Its lower streets are lined with bookshops and small, charming boutiques alongside elegant and luxurious shops offering all the latest trends. However, its current abundance of art galleries is perhaps the neighbourhood’s most remarkable feature. The Galerie Denise René, Galerie George-Philippe & Nathalie Vallois or the Galerie Kamel Mennour all come highly recommended. Take a look on www.deniserene.com, www.galerie-vallois.com and www.kamelmennour.com.

The Rue Royale is yet another excellent example of true Parisian elegance. Running between the Place de Concorde and Place de la Madeleine, it is home to some of the most expensive restaurants and shops in the world. And talking of shopping, Fauchon is definitely worth a visit. This Parisian food company caters for the most exquisite tastes with high quality, gourmet products such as foie gras, champagne, chocolates, macarons, honey, jams, coffee..., indulge yourself on www.fauchon.com. You could also come away with some of the world’s finest chinaware from Villeroy & Boch (www.villeroy-boch.com) or Christofle (www.christofle.com) and you’ll love the dainty and colourful glassware in Lalique (www.lalique.com).

The most famous and majestic boulevard in Paris, the Champs-Élysées, is an obligatory promenade for all first time visitors to the French capital. You’ll be amazed at its length, measuring close to 2,000 metres. Home to boutiques from the most renown international designers (read Cartier, Hugo Boss, Dior...), it also accommodates fashion giants with more accessible prices, such as H&M and Zara, and even exclusive showrooms for brands such as Mercedes or Renault. In addition to shops, you’ll also find restaurants, cinemas, theatres, 5 star hotels and more. On the other hand, the Avenue Montaigne is the epitome of luxury. You’ll be blown away by the show-stopping window displays on this street from big names in haute couture such as Loewe, Jimmy Choo, Chanel or Louis Vuitton. The street extends for around 500 metres from the Pont d’Alma to the Champs-Élysées and, amongst many other claims to fame, has been home to the Christian Dior shop since 1940.

Known locally as BHV, this shopping centre at the heart of the fourth arrondissement is well worth a visit. You’ll find it at number 54 on the very central Rue de Rivoli. Established in the second half of the 19th century, it is now part of the Galeries Lafayette group. Its eye-catching building with large windows and an impressive grey-coloured dome is just in front of the City Hall, also known as the Hôtel de Ville. Over the length and breadth of various floors you’ll find beauty products, food, books, clothing, tools, ornaments and an endless amount of options to suit any budget. Visit the website to plan your trip: www.bhv.fr.

If you’re looking for affordable prices and a huge selection of goods, his or her fashion, ornaments, products for the home, children’s games, jewellery, accessories, perfume, wedding dresses and anything else you can think of, head to one of the adjoining branches of the Tati superstore on the Boulevard Rochechouart in Montmartre. There are some amazing deals on offer and hunting through the hundreds of goods on display for a genuine bargain can be a whole lot of fun. For more information see www.tati.fr. Mouton à Cinq Pattes is another good option for affordable shopping in Paris. This chain has various stores dotted around the city (for example at number 8 on the Rue Saint Placide, just 50 metres from the famous Le Bon Marché). It specialises in second-hand clothing, past season designs and vintage items. You’ll find big names such as Chanel, Liu Jo, Jean Paul Gaultier and Alberta Ferreti amongst its selection of designer brands. Start window shopping now on www.moutonacinqpattesparis.com.

If you had to choose just one quintessential temple to Parisian shopping, the Galeries Lafayette would win hands down. Its world-famous flagship store, number 40 on the Boulevard Haussmann in the ninth arrondissement, welcomes no less than 20 million visitors a year. Famous not only for the quality of its products, the architecture and sheer size of the building, with its spectacular Neo-Byzantine dome, will also leave you lost for words. You can even do your shopping on-line at www.galerieslafayette.com. Les Galeries is another well-known shopping centre in the French capital, offering Prêt à Porter fashion for men, women and children. Find out more at www.lesgaleries.fr. Lastly, if you’re looking for a high-flying shopping experience, head to Au Printemps, also on the Boulevard Haussmann, at number 64. Home to pure luxury with exquisite collections from the most prestigious designers in the world. Just don’t look at the price tag! Have a look at what’s in store on www.printemps.com.

Paris has also reserved art spaces dedicated exclusively to the creations of great artists such as Picasso, Dalí and Monet. In the Picasso Museum, its collection of sculptures stands out especially, although works of different techniques used by the artist in all his periods are also exhibited. In its collection there are 200 paintings, 100 sculptures and ceramics and about 3,000 drawings and engravings. Find out at www.musee-picasso.fr. For its part, the Montmartre neighborhood hosts a permanent exhibition of the surrealist master Salvador Dalí. This Dalí Space can boast of concentrating some 300 works by the artist, mainly engravings and sculptures. Discover all its details at www.daliparis.com. To top it off, the Marmottan Monet Museum, on Rue Louise Boilly in the 16th arrondissement, exhibits one of the most interesting Impressionist collections in the country. The star of the museum is precisely the painting Impression, Rising Sun, by Claude Monet, which gave its name to the Impressionist movement. On its walls hang a hundred paintings not only by this renowned artist, but also by Manet, Renoir, Degas and Morisot. Don't miss their website www.marmottan.fr.

collection made up of 150,000 objects will welcome you to the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, which has been hidden in the west wing of the Louvre Museum since 1905. As its name suggests, its raison d'être is the exhibition of decorative pieces that They range from the Middle Ages to the present day. Discover its history thanks to www.lesartsdecoratifs.fr. For its part, the Palais de Tokyo, which was built for the 1937 Paris International Exposition, houses the Museum of Modern Art of the City of Paris. It dominates Avenida del Presidente Wilson, in the 16th district, and is dedicated to modern art of the 20th century, with works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Raoul Dufy, George Braque, Juan Gris and Hans Bellmer, among many others. Find it on www.mam.paris.fr.

If you’re looking for an in-depth history of Paris from the founding of the city to present day, the Musée Carnavalet has all the information you’ll need to become an expert on the City of Light. You’ll find archaeological remains, historic scenes and even reconstructions of former buildings, portraits of distinguished figures and eye witness accounts of day-to-day life in the city over the centuries. The museum is in the Le Marais district and its official site is www.carnavalet.paris.fr. Another interesting attraction, especially for cinema lovers, is the Museum of Cinema or Cinémathèque Française, which is dedicated to the collection, preservation and exhibition of both French and world film heritage. Its collection includes over 40,000 films, as well as posters, old cameras, costumes, sets and other objects and documents relating to the world of cinema. The museum is in a post-modern building on the Rue de Bercy. For more information see www.cinematheque.fr.

This museum first opened 1882 and has been delighting visitors ever since with models of famous people, both past and present, from all walks of life, whether politics, sports, film, music, etc.. In total, the museum has 500 waxworks, including Marilyn Monroe, Alfred Hitchcock, Zinédine Zidane, Elvis Presley, Catherine Deneuve and Barack Obama. It also has various themed rooms, with settings ranging from a grand palace to a Hindu temple and even a jungle. You’ll find it at number 10 on the Boulevard Montmartre. On its website, www.grevin-paris.com, you can browse through photos of its waxwork celebrities. However, tickets will set you back over 20 euros per person.

Built by the architect Charles Girault for the World’s Fair held in Paris in 1900, its centrepiece is a grand 150 metre façade with a monumental porch and spectacular dome. The interior was designed to be lit solely by natural light thanks to its large windows and transparent domes, which fill this monumental building with warm. The museum’s collection includes paintings, drawing and other pieces from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, a set of 18th century furniture and works by French artists such as Delacroix, Coubert and Ingres. You’ll find it on the Avenue Winston-Churchill in the eighth arrondissement, just opposite the equally popular Grand Palais. Meanwhile, allow yourself to be seduced by www.petitpalais.paris.fr.

This museum of the French army is located in the Hôtel National des Invalides. You’ll be amazed by its extensive collection of weaponry and armour, the largest in Europe, and its detailed representation of the military, political, social and industrial history of France from Louis XIV to Napoleon I. Whilst its collection dedicated to the French army during the two World Wars is also well worth a visit, the Tomb of Napoleon I remains the museum’s most popular attraction. Its interactive multimedia space documenting the life and achievements of the President of the 5th French Republic, Charles de Gaulle, is yet another entirely unique feature. To find out more about this extensive museum to go www.musee-armee.fr.

The Latin Quarter is home to this National Museum of the Middle Ages. Located in the Place Paul Painlevé, it will appear before your eyes as an ancient fortress that has survived under various guises (such as thermal baths, palace and hospice) from Antiquity to present day. What can be discovered here? 3,500 square metres of highly valuable medieval artefacts, an extensive collection of tapestries and even pieces of marble and Gothic sculptures from places such as the Abbey at Saint-Denis or the Notre Dame cathedral itself. In total, the Musée du Cluny boasts a collection of over 20,000 artefacts and artwork, with just 2,300 on public display, dating from Roman Gaul to the 16th century. For visitor information see www.musee-moyenage.fr.

An amazing array of artefacts from ancient civilisations in Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas fill the rooms of the Musée du Quai Branly, which was opened in 2006 by President Jacques Chirac. Its permanent collection includes some 300,000 pieces and it also hosts around 10 temporary exhibitions a year. Find out more about this French ethnological museum on www.quaibranly.fr. If you’re also interested in Asian culture, don’t miss out on the Musée Guimet, also known as the National Museum of Asian Arts. You’ll be amazed by its magnificent collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain and by the Buddhist pantheon, dedicated exclusively to religious art. Other main attractions include a collection of archaeological pieces from the Greco-Bactrian kingdom and the city of Aï-Khanoum, as well as the Tillya tepe treasure, on loan since 2007 from the Museum of Kabul. Explore its collection on www.guimet.fr.

Opening in 1977, the Centre Pompidou is the leading promoter of modern and contemporary art in France. It was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. The complex includes a centre for research into acoustics and music, known as IRCAM, a library spacious enough for up to 2,000 people and the exhibition hall itself. This hall is known as the National Museum of Modern Art and contains 76,000 works from such distinguished artists as Picasso, Miró, Modigliani, Matisse, Brancusi and Francis Bacon. Together with the Tate Modern in London and the MoMA in New York, it is the most accomplished modern art museum in the world, attracting close to six million visitors each year. Its full name is Le Centre National d'Art et de Culture George Pompidou and you’ll find it in the Les Halles district. Explore the centre yourself at www.centrepompidou.fr.

The former Orsay train station is now the grand home of this impressive art gallery, dedicated to 19th century art. It is renowned for its realist, impressionist and post-impressionist paintings and also has a sizeable collection of sculptures, artefacts and decorative, cinematic and photographic art. In the Musée d’Orsay you’ll find masterpieces such as Luncheon on the Grass by Édouart Manet, Tahitian Women on the Beach by Paul Gauguin, L’Absinthe by Edgar Degas or Dance in the Country by Pierre Auguste Renoir. It is also home to the work of painters such as Ingres, Coubert, pissarro, Monet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Manet, Munch, Matisse, Delacroix, Degas, Cézanne, Tolouse-Lautrec and other distinguished artists. As for sculptures, the museum hosts pieces by names such as Rude, Daumier, Cavelier or Pompon. Check prices, opening hours and more at www.musee-orsay.fr. If you are especially interested in impressionist and post-impressionist painting, you should also visit the Musée de l’Orangerie in the Place de Concorde. Amongst many other paintings, this art gallery is home to Claude Monet’s Nymphéas series, known as the Water Lilies. Take a look at www.musee-orangerie.fr.

With the most famous smile in the world, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is the star attraction at this museum, which can be explored on its official website: www.louvre.fr. This National Museum of France is dedicated to a wide range of art dating up to the impressionist era. Its long passageways, lined with paintings, sculptures, artefacts and decorative art, are best measured in kilometres. Opening in 1793, it is the most popular museum in the world with some eight and a half million visitors a year. In addition to the Mona Lisa, the museum contains many other greatly admired works, including painting such as Liberty Leading the People by Delacroix, The Marie de Medici Cycle by Rubens or The Madonna of Chancellor Rolin by Jan van Eyck. In terms of sculptures, its collection dates from Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt up to the Neoclassical period, with legendary pieces such as the Venus de Milo or the Winged Victory of Samothrace. From 2003, it has also built a large collection of Islamic art. The glass pyramid at the entrance to the museum was designed in 1989 by architect Ming Pei. It is one of the most obvious modern alternations to this former royal palace chosen to house the museum’s vast collection.

Entry to the gardens of this museum is only 1 euro, a reasonable price for any traveller. On the other hand, to visit the entire complex, including the internal exhibition (which is certainly well worth a look) will cost 7 or 9 euros, depending on whether you visit both the temporary and permanent exhibitions or just one of the two. Rodin’s celebrated sculpture, The Thinker, dominates the idyllic rose garden which you’ll find in the grounds of this museum, along with many other famous bronze sculptures by this artist, such as the monument to Balzac. Inside the 18th century mansion, you come across other famous works such as The Kiss. The museum also contains engravings, drawing, painting and much more... Take a look at the official website www.musee-rodin.fr/es.

The bodies of Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Delacroix, La Fontaine, Marcel Proust, Balzac, Colette, Géricault, Sarah Bernhardt, Pissarro, Ingres, Champollion, Edith Piaf and even Molière himself are all buried in the exclusive Père Lachaise cemetery, one of the most unique tourist attractions in the city. It is also said to be the final resting place of the medieval lovers Heloise and Abelard. Jim Morrison was one of the last stars to be buried here, who in 1971 added his name to the lengthy list of celebrities honoured with a place in this 48 hectare cemetery. You’ll find it in the twentieth arrondissement and maps can be purchased from the nearby kiosks with directions to the most famous graves.

It’s really worth taking a full day to fully appreciate this magnificent complex, with three palaces, spectacular lakes, dozens of fountains, a huge park and endless gardens. Built under the reign of Louis XIV, it was named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. Traditionally, it was the official residency of the French royal family and is in fact one of the most important royal architectural complexes in Europe. The monarch to best stamp their personal mark on Versailles was unquestionably Marie Antoinette. Above all, don’t miss out on the Hall of Mirrors (a room which will take your breath away more than any other in the main palace) and the musical fountain shows. In good weather, the very structured and classically designed gardens are ideal for bike rides, rowing in the central lake or enjoying a picnic. The sheer size and scale of Versailles never ceases to amaze: 800 hectares, 20 kilometres of paths, 200,000 trees, 35 kilometres of waterways, 11 hectares of roofing, 2,153 windows and 67 staircases. To plan your visit and check opening times and prices, take a look at the website www.es.chateauversailles.fr.

These slow-cruising boats, filled with hundreds of sight-seers, are one of the most typical sights along the banks of the Seine, at any time of the day or night. Although there are dozens of choices for booking one of these tours, Las Vedettes del Pont-Neuf is a good option with boats departing every 45 minutes from Point Neuf. These tours last for just under an hour and cost 13 euros. Did you know there is also a Statue of Liberty in Paris? You’ll discover this and much more about the history of the city’s most famous monuments which you’ll see from the boat, such as the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, the Place de la Concorde, the Pont de Alexandre III, the Eiffel Tower and the Hôtel de Ville. Meanwhile, the virtual tours on www.vedettesdupontneuf.com will turn you green with envy.

At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, these public gardens are perfect for taking a quick breather before scaling this famous monument. In the past, this wide open space was used for growing fruit and vegetables. However, after being transformed into a drilling and marching ground in the 18th century, this leafy complex now offers a refreshing contrast to its surrounding urban landscape. It is named after the Campus Martius in Rome, since Mars was the Roman god of war. You’ll find it in the seventh arrondissement, with the Eiffel Tower to the north west and the École Militaire to the south west. It was used for the 1867, 1878 and 1889 World’s Fairs which were hosted by the City of Light, yet was also the site of various tragic events such as the Champs to Mars massacre in 1791.

This classic symbol of the city can be found between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, and has numerous fountains and a grand central avenue lined with trees and sculptures. The origins of this beautiful park date back to the 16th century, when the Tuileries Palace was designed for Catherine de Medici to be surrounded by lavish, Florentine gardens that would later be re-modelled in the English style. The peculiar name given to both the palace and its garden originates from the former tile workshops (tullies in French) found in this area. Although the palace was destroyed by the Paris Commune in 1870, its gardens have survive to this day. Given its central location, it is always a lively place, popular with tourists and locals alike. The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, a triumphal arch linking the gardens with the Louvre, was built by Napoleon.

If you’re passionate about nature and plant life, don’t miss out on a trip to this spectacular botanical garden in the fifth arrondissement. It is home to a botanical school that maintains over 4,500 varieties of shrubs and plants; three greenhouses (one winter greenhouse, one Mexican and one Australian); a rose garden, used to advance the study of various rose sub-species, and an Alpine garden. You should also definitely visit its zoo, founded in 1795 it is one of the oldest in the world. The zoo currently has over 1,100 different species and its 5.5 hectares are home to many endangered species. There is also a mini zoo with microscopes for spotting arthropods and an area for small reptiles, amphibians and insects. The best time of year to visit the Jardin des Plantes is probably in April, when its flower beds (surrounded by curious East Indian banana vines) are in full bloom. Find out more at www.jardindesplantes.net.

These leafy, green lungs of the city cover nearly 23 hectares of the seventh arrondissement. It is an ideal spot for a picnic, playing with the kids in one of its many playgrounds or enjoying a gentle stroll and a little relaxation. This vast green expanse is also home to the Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate, and there is also a puppet theatre, the théâtre des marionettes, and a carousel. Younger visitors can take pony rides or hire small remote-control boats to play with in the pond. Whilst adults can attend gardening and bee-keeping classes, practise martial arts or play tennis or basketball on one of the many courts. The Théâtre de l'Odéon is just around the corner from this park. It is open from 7.30 or 8.15am to 4.30 or 9.30pm, depending on the time of year.

There are over thirty bridges connecting the two sides of Paris separated by the Seine. The Pont Saint Michel, Pont des Arts, Pont Alexandre III, Pont d’Alma and Pont Neuf are just some of the most well-known. Approximately 13 kilometres of the Seine passes through the city, guarded by these picturesque footbridges, made from wood, stone or metal, depending on the era. The Pont de Alexandre III is perhaps the most stunning. Easily recognisable by its single metal arch, it is found between the Invalides complex and the Grand and Petit Palais. Its four 17 metre columns are crowned with winged, gilded statues, making for a truly unique monument. Other significant bridges include Pont Neuf, or Bridge Nine, which is definitely worth a visit for a closer look at its over 300 carved faces. Despite its name, this bridge is actually the oldest in the city and at 232 metres is also the longest. You’ll find it at the western end of the Île de la Cité.

As you can guess from the name, sweet and savoury crepes take pride of place on the delectable menu of this well-known creperie, found at number 67 on the Rue de Montparnasse. Its classic dining room, with dark wood panels, makes you feel instantly at home as you tuck into its authentic galettes (the French for what we call crepes). Don’t miss out on classics such as chocolate, banana, ice-cream and whipped cream, honey and lemon or, the most filling of the lot, the spinach, cream, cheese, egg and bacon crepe. Open every day from noon to 11pm. And what’s more, it won’t cost more than 20 euros a head, a price which in a city like Paris and given the quality of its produce and recipes, is excellent value for money.

If you want to enjoy Parisian haute cuisine in top quality restaurants in the most sought-after locations, and without worrying about at the bill, here are three excellent recommendations: Le Jules Verne, Georges and Kong. For more information on the first of the three, located in the Eiffel Tower itself, check out the website www.lejulesverne-paris.com. The second, Georges, is a modern-style restaurant on the roof terrace of the Pompidou Centre. Similarly, you’ll find Kong on the top floor of the building designed by Phillippe Starck himself to house the flagship Parisian store for international fashion house, Kenzo. This cosmopolitan restaurant serves amazing fusion cuisine, accompanied by the best panoramic views over the Seine and Pont Neuf. Find out more at www.kong.fr.

Venture down the vibrant, narrow streets of this famous area and you’ll be besieged by chalkboards touting competitive prices and Happy Hour deals on a round of beers and something to eat. If you end up here for lunch or dinner, why not try one of the superb cheese fondues, served at all of its pretty roadside restaurants. The best streets to visit are those around the Rue Xavier Privas, Rue de la Huchette and Rue Saint-Séverin. You’ll also find plenty of sandwich and baguette takeaways and countless creperies of which Chez Nicos, at number 44 on the Rue Mouffetard, is an excellent option.

This is one of the most popular open air markets in Paris, ideal for picking up a cheap yet tasty snack. Known locally as La Mouffe, it takes place on the cobbled and partially pedestrianized Rue Mouffetard, where there is also a handful of interesting restaurants and boutique. You’ll find stalls brimming with breads, meat, fish, vegetables, oils, chocolates and other fresh produce and dressings alongside others serving chicken and roast potatoes, fresh oysters, cakes and all kinds of other treats... And it goes without saying that the cheeses and wines are superb. Open Tuesday to Sunday, it extends between the Place de la Contrescarpe, behind the Panthéon, and the Place de St. Médard. If you’re planning to visit this market, remember that some stalls are closed in the afternoon. Go in the morning and you’ll find the market in full swing.

If you prefer to get away from the more traditional bistros and are keen to try a trendy, chic and classy alternative, don’t miss out on a trip to La Gare. At number 19 on Chausseé de la Muette, this modern restaurant is built inside a former train station, hence its current name (“gare” meaning “station” in French). Its open-plan dining area seats 250 guests and its décor is meticulously designed, down to the smallest detail. Every Sunday from noon to 3pm it serves a lavish buffet-style bunch for 39 euros, whilst prices on the daily menus vary between 19 and 39 euros. It offers inventive and seasonal cuisine with dishes such as Scottish salmon tart with avocado and mango, ravioli in a black truffle sauce or breast of duck with ginger and sweet potato mash. Check out the full menu on www.restaurantlagare.com.

If you want to discover other establishments with a literary tradition in the City of Light, be sure to visit number 99 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, where you will find Le Fouquet's, a romantic and classicist brasserie that was James Joyce's favorite. For its part, it is said that the Cloiserie des Lilas was the favorite bar of Lenin, Trotsky, Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, to name just a few of its star clients. You can visit it and try its bistro-style cuisine at number 171 Boulevard du Montparnasse. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Sartre or Bondin could also be seen in another well-known café, Harry's Bar, a hundred-year-old space on Daounou street, universally known in the city for how it prepares alcoholic cocktails. Take a look at www.harrysbar.fr.

Founded in 1890, this picturesque café sits on a pretty corner at the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district and played a central role in the city’s intellectual and literary past. In fact, in its day the Café de Flore was a regular meeting place for big names such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote and Simone de Beauvoir. Teas, coffees, wines, mixers and aperitifs are served in its lavishly art deco dining room, alongside dishes found in any typical French bistro. On a sunny day, its bustling open-air tables are well worth a visit... Who knows, you might even bump into one of the city’s famous actors! Find out more at www.cafedeflore.fr.

On the Boulevard de Saint-Germain you’ll find one of the most renowned brasseries in the whole city. The Brasserie Lipp is a long-standing favourite amongst popular artists, writers, journalist and actors. Suffice to say its illustrious clientele includes none other than Françoise Mitterrand, elected President of the French Republic in 1981. Serving French cuisine in a classic, decadent and typically Parisian dining room, the restaurant dates back to 1880. It is open from 9am to 1pm and the average price per person is around 50 euros. Don’t be surprised to find you’ll have to wait for a table if you haven’t booked in advance.

Techno, house, garage and Latino music all have a huge following in the French capital, with Queen Club rated by many of these fans as one of the city’s best nightclubs. In addition to sets from the most popular new DJs, it also hosts themed nights: Ladies' Nights, After Work, etc.... It is right in the middle of the Champs-Élysées, at number 102, and opens 7 days a week from 7pm to 6am. To get an idea of everything on offer, take a look at www.queen.fr. Together with Queen Club, Le Bilboquet is another place for a good night out. This club serves up live music 7 days a week from the best local and international jazz musicians. It can be found at number 13, Rue Saint-Benoît and as well as specialising in jazz and blues, is also a restaurant and piano bar with an elegant and classic vibe. It is open every night until 2am and has been honoured with performances from artists such as Miles Davis and Billie Holiday.

The most popular, authentic side of Paris is currently thriving on the streets of cosmopolitan areas such as Belville and Ménilmontant. Located in the twentieth arrondissement, these are home to a vibrant underground and alternative set of musicians, painters and artists. There’s an abundance of cafés and nightclubs to head out for a drink, catch some live music or sample some international cuisine at a very reasonable price. The Café Charbon is one of the best and most typical of the area. Talking of great nights out in the most colourful and vibrant venues, the district of Le Marais is also well worth a visit. You’ll be surprised by the eclectic mix of gay and heterosexual bars, nightclubs and cabarets all open well into the early hours. The majority are in the south east of the district or around the Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie and Vieille du Temple.

Known locally for back-to-back screenings all through the night, this small film study shows cycles of directors such as Wong Kar-Waï or Martin Scorsese, as well as a wide variety of both classic and modern cult films. Located on the Rue des Ecoles, it is open from 11.30 am to midnight, 7 days a week. You can read more about this small film study on www.lechampo.com. Another cinema that’s also worth visiting, even just for its very distinctive décor, is Le Grand Rex on the Boulevard Poisssonnière. In addition to film screenings, this cinema also stages live concerts. Discover what’s on at www.legrandrex.com.

Recently, this has become one of the most fashionable theatres on the city’s alternative scene. You’ll find this small, captivating theatre in the fourteenth arrondissement, on the Rue du Maine in Montparnasse. In addition to evening performances (up to three different shows a night), they also run theatre workshops on vocal techniques, body expression, rhythm and improvisation. Ticket vary between 5 and 20 euros. The works performed here are always refreshingly different and have a contemporary twist with a focus on showcasing interesting proposals from up-and-coming companies. Discover what’s on at www.guichetmontparnasse.com.

Over three centuries of history attest to the brilliance of this state theatre company whose incredible reputation is built upon the tireless production of classics French plays. stage. Although many believe the company was created by Molière, it was actually founded in 1680, during the reign of Louis XIV, seven years after the playwright’s death. It consists of nearly 400 actors and since 2006 has been led by actor Muriel Mayette. Its repertoire is based on popular Gallic works, with scripts by great writers such as Molière himself, Victor Hugo or Racine. The Comédie Française perform in the three venues in Paris; the Salle Richelieu, the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier and the Studio-Théâtre. Keep up to date on www.comedie-francaise.fr.

These theatres are home to the city’s most exquisite music and dance. The Ópera de la Bastille (or simply opéra Bastille), in the twelfth arrondissement, is known locally as “the people’s theatre”. The architect Carlos Ott design the curved profile of the glass-fronted building, which has a 2,700 person capacity and five technologically advanced, fully mobile stages. It opened in 1989 to commemorate the 200 year anniversary of the fall of the Bastille. You can view its programme of contemporary performances on www.operabastille.net. On the other hand, the Ópera Garnier, also called The Theatre of Paris, is known not only for its world-class performances but also for its impressive architecture. Commissioned by Napoleon III, it was designed by the architect Charles Garnier. Opening in 1875, its neo-baroque style and impressive dimensions make it one of the most eye-catching buildings on the city’s urban skyline. The complex also includes a luxurious restaurant. Find out more at www.operadeparis.fr.

If you have seen the classic film Amélie, no doubt you’ll want to visit this part of the city where its charming protagonist lived. You can even go to the picturesque Café Tabac des Deux Moulins where she worked, which in real life looks exactly as it did in the film. Montmartre is a 130 metre hill, offering some of the most beautiful views over the rooftops of the City of Light. You’re sure to come across musicians performing in its squares (for example, one of the most fashionable French groups in recent years, ZAZ, began its rise to fame here). A mix of trend-setters, tourists and bohemian artists bring this part of the city alive, any day of the week. Why not get a portrait of yourself by one of the caricaturists working on the streets of Montmartre? Have a coffee and a crepe at one of its pretty pavement cafés or visit the independent art galleries, shops and boutiques dotted around the lower part of the district. And don’t miss out on a visit to the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur, or Sacred Heart, which dominates the crest of the hill.

This is, without a doubt, the most famous Parisian cabaret. A trip to the Moulin Rouge is practically obligatory for all first-time visitors to the capital. In the last decade, its fame has been largely revived by the 2001 film Moulin Rouge!, starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman. It can be found in the red light district of Pigalle, very close to Montmartre. As the name suggests, a large red windmill welcomes you into its world of bohemian performances, evoking the Belle Époque at the start of the 20th century. The history of the Moulin Rouge dates back to 1889 when its journey began in the hands of Spaniard Josep Oller. During its golden years even Edith Piaf performed at the Moulin Rouge. Today, as well as catching one of the cabaret shows you can also have dinner and drinks at the bar. Visit the official website at www.moulinrouge.fr.

Pure magic and fun is the best way to describe this spectacular theme park created by Disney - who else - over two decades ago. It has five themed areas: Main Street, Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland and Discoveryland, covering over 550,000 square metres. The complex also includes Disneyland Golf, a golf course for adults and children, the Disneyland Paris Resort, where you can spend the night in unforgettable hotels and Disney Village full of entertaining and of course fully-themed shops, bars and restaurants. Discover the world of the most famous cartoon heroes on the planet regardless of when you plan your trip, as Disneyland Paris is open 365 days a year. You can enjoy white-knuckle rides (look out for Space Mountain, according to some the best rollercoaster in the world), evening shows, encounters with some of the kids’ best loved cartoon characters, parades for the whole family and endless adventures. The park opened its gates in spring 1992 and is one of the most significant tourist destinations in Europe with a staggering 14 million visitors a year. You can reach Disneyland Paris from the capital by bus or train. Plan your visit on www.disneylandparis.com.

Given the near endless amount of monuments in a city like Paris, it’s difficult to stick to just a few key recommendations. At this point, it is also worth mentioning other places of interest such as the Tour Montparnasse, the Palais-Royal or the Chapelle expiator. The first, the Tour Montparnasse, offers unbeatable views over the city. This tower is in fact a 210 metre skyscraper with 59 floors, located on the Avenue du Maine. Built between 1969 and 1972 by the architect Roger Saubot, today it is mainly used for offices although its roof terrace is open to the public. On the 56th floor you can take a break in the Restaurante Le Ciel de Paris (www.cieldeparis.com), an exquisite, traditional French restaurant priced at around 80 euros a head. The Palais-Royal complex, which you’ll find to the north of the Louvre on the Rue Saint-Honoré includes a palace, a theatre and various gardens and galleries. It was commissioned by Cardinal Richelieu in the first half of the 17th century. Discover its history at www.palais-royal.monuments-nationaux.fr. Lastly, the neo-classic Chapelle expiator, which was built over the original resting place of Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette. You’ll find it on the Rue Pasquier.

The figures from this cemetery, one of the most well-known in the French capital, will send a shiver down your spine: an estimated 6 million people have been buried in these tunnels and chambers, which extend for nearly 300 kilometres under the city (although public access is now restricted to just a small section). Originally the catacombs were limestone quarries. However, this all changed in 1786 when corpses were first moved here from various municipal cemeteries in an attempt to curb the spread of diseases which were devastating the city at the time. Nowadays, you’ll be shocked by the haphazard stacks of thousands of human skulls and bones, creating a moving impression on those who dare to visit.

This magnificent architectural complex was commissioned by Louis XIV in the 17th century. Today, it houses both museums and religious buildings (for example the Musée de l'Armée, featured in the Museums section of this guide: www.musee-armee.fr) and a retirement home for French war veterans. The large golden dome of its Chapel of Sainte-Louis (referred to as le Dôme) dominates the Parisian skyline and hints at the beauty you’ll also discover inside. It is located in the seventh arrondissement, just a short distance from the École Militaire. The Hôtel National des Invalides is also home to the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, buried here along with his brother Joseph I of Spain.

You’ll be greeted by dozens of majestic gargoyles from all four sides of this imposing , world-famous catholic cathedral built between 1163 and 1345. It is one of the oldest examples of Gothic architecture in France and due to its location on the Île de la Cité, is completely surrounded by the waters of the Seine. Unfortunately, on April 15, 2019 the building suffered significant damage due to a fire; two thirds of the roof were destroyed, the central needle of Viollet-le-Duc fell and the rose windows were damaged by what at the moment can not be visited inside.

A grand mausoleum at the heart of the Latin Quarter and the final resting place of such distinguished figures as Zola, Voltaire, Monet... Majestically neo-classic.

This small church has become a top attraction amongst the city’s 40 million annual visitors. Its stained glass windows, depicting around 1,000 religious scenes, such as The Genesis, The Exodus or The Resurrection, bathe the chapel in a beautiful and enchanting light. The Sainte-Chapelle is a true Gothic treasure located at the heart of the Île de la Cité. It was designed by Louis IX to house the relics brought back to France in the mid-13th century from Syria and Constantinople. It has two floors and was built between 1241 and 1248. Entry to the chapel costs 8.50 euros or you can buy a combined ticket to see the Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie for 12.50 euros. Check opening times and other details at www.sainte-chapelle.monuments-nationaux.fr.

You’ll see this famous temple at the top of the Montmartre hill. It was commissioned in 1873 in tribute to the French victims of the Franco-Prussian war. Designed by the architect Paul Abadie, the first stone wasn’t laid until 1875. It was finished in 1914, yet this titanic work wouldn’t be consecrated until after the First World War, in 1919. The basilica, in the shape of a Greek cross, is crowned by four domes (the central dome rising to an impressive 80 metres) and built in the Romano-Byzantine style. If you don’t fancy tackling the hundreds of steps leading up to the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, or Sacred Heart, the Montmartre cable car is an excellent alternative. This will drop you off just outside the entrance. Find out more at www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com.

This is probably the most famous triumphal arch in the world. It was built between 1806 and 1836 at the request of Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. The architects, Jean Chalgrin and Jean-Arnaud Raymond, were inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome. At 49 metres high and 45 metres wide it dominates the Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. On each of its pillars, you’ll find a different sculpture, entitled Le Triomphe, La Résistance, La Paix and La Marseillaise. Although you can simply take in its impressive exterior, the museum inside the arch offers an interesting account of its construction and history. The panoramic views from the top of the arch are also highly recommended. If you look closely, you’ll see various names carved into the arch belonging to French revolutionaries, soldiers and military leaders. At its base you’ll also find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This monument is 50 metres high and 45 metres wide and its flame is constantly lit in memory of the victims of war. For more information see www.arc-de-triomphe.monuments-nationaux.fr.

This wrought-iron tower was designed by the French engineer Gustave Eiffel for the World’s Fair held in Paris in 1889. It is one of the world’s most visited and admired monuments and is currently estimated to attract more than six million visitors a year. At over 300 metres high, it offers the best panoramic views of the city bathed by the River Seine. At night, the lights illuminating the tower twinkle magically for five minutes at the start of each hour, transforming it into a dazzling spectacle of light. Despite currently being one of the city’s most popular attractions, it was condemned by the artists of its day as an iron-clad monstrosity and came close to being destroyed. Standing at the northern end of the Champ de Mars, it was created to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the French Revolution. It remained the tallest structure in the world for over 40 years, until being superseded in 1930 by the Chrysler building in New York. It is open to the public until 11 pm and has three floors: the first two can be reached by lift or on foot - conquering no less than 704 steps and a 155 metre ascent-, whilst the third is only accessible by lift. As part of the millennium celebrations, the Eiffel Tower was covered with 20,000 lights which, since 2000, are set to sparkle for 10 minutes every day (at midday and at 1 am). To avoid the queues, tickets can be purchased on-line at www.tour-eiffel.fr, where you can also check prices, discounts, opening hours and more...

You’ll come across this select and well-known department store on the left bank of the Seine at 24 Rue de Sèvres. Specialising in refined and contemporary lines, it is one of the city’s most iconic shops. Its name, meaning “the good deal” or “the good service”, defines two of its key feature: the quality and variety of its products and its warm and friendly atmosphere. Founded by Aristide Boucicaut in 1838, it began as a small shop which would undergo various changes and transformations as its impeccable reputation steadily grew. Today, Bon Marché is home to a range of luxurious boutiques, fashionable clothing and accessories, an area dedicated to beauty products, another to lingerie, a men’s department, children’s area, furniture section, gourmet café and more. Check out the full range on www.lebonmarche.com.

If you’re looking for a restaurant with character then Chez Marianne is for you. Located at the heart of the Jewish Quarter of Le Marais on the Rue des Hospitalières-Saint-Gervais, it serves up a steady stream of delicacies such as hummus, aubergines or its famous falafel. A black and white tiled floor welcomes you into this bustling and friendly restaurant, which also has a takeaway menu. It is very popular and so don’t be surprised if it’s completely full and you have to wait for a table. It will definitely be worth the wait. The average price per person is less than 18 euros.

If we’re talking cakes and sweets in a city like Paris, the mythical and sugary delights of Ladureé are quite simply a must. The cult TV series Sex in the City and films such as Marie Antoinette by Sofia Coppola, have transformed Ladureé into one of the City of Light’s most famous tearooms. The company was founded in 1862 and is known all over the world for its macarons. These round, dainty cakes are filled with cream, come in all sorts of colours and are a true Parisian delicacy. Ladureé has various romantic and chic tearooms dotted around the city, with the most central at number 75 on the Champs-Élysées. Meanwhile, for a mouth-watering starter, visit its seductive official website www.laduree.fr.

Books, books and more books (mostly second hand) is what you’ll find on both floors of this incredible bookshop; an absolute must for all bookworms. It also specialises in English-language literature. You’ll find it in the Latin Quarter in the fifth arrondissement, just around the corner from the Seine and the Notre Dame. The bookshop as it appears today was first opened in 1951 by George Whitman. During the mid-20th century, it became the epicentre of literary culture in the city, counting names such as Joyce, Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Stein or Pound amongst its most distinguished customers. Many novelists and aspiring writers (for example from the beat generation) would sleep here in exchange for helping to run the shop. Research its extensive history at www.shakespeareandcompany.com.