Paris has become a city synonymous with romance; it is a magical place rich in art and culture with a colourful history. There are so many wonderful things to see and do here whether on a short weekend break or a day trip. You can get to Paris by air, EuroStar from London’s Paddington Station or by ferry and road. The modern glass walls of Charles de Gaulle aiport give you a spectacular view of the planes taking off and landing! With nearly fifty-eight million passengers last year, it is Europe’s second busiest airport after London Heathrow. Passengers are ferried between the three giant terminals of this massive airport on free shuttles – the only way you can get from one to the other due to the sheer size.

It is easy to get into Paris from the airport – choose from taxis, luxury limo transport, car hire or modern high speed train as your mode of transport. The huge international airport is a mere fourteen miles from the centre of Paris, Brussels is just one hour away, and Disneyland is only ten minutes transfer by train – making Paris a highly popular European weekend break destination. Getting around Paris is easy and there are many available options. Buses, trams and the Metro (underground network) make up Paris’s public transport system. Also readily available are private car hire and taxi services.

Before beginning to explore this most fabulously romantic of cities, a brief word of warning about hiring a car while on holiday, if this is your preferred option. Always make sure to read the rental agreement fully so that you know exactly what you will be covered for in the event of an accident, this includes any excess charges which you may be liable for. Most specialist insurance products such as gap insurance, car warranties and breakdown insurance should already be taken care of by the hire car company so you won’t need to worry about those things. Always clarify details of what to do and who to call if you do break down, and make sure the cover provides 24-hour call-outs. There are extra insurance products which you may be offered – such as key insurance or windscreen cover – which will cost you more but may give you added peace of mind. Ensure that you know exactly what it is you are signing, particularly as the procedure may differ from in your own country.

Take special care of your personal belongings whilst travelling around this bustling city, as complacency could easily lead to a misadventure just as in any other big city. Using basic common sense, like not taking all of your spending money out with you, will help you avoid any unpleasantness which could put a dampener on your trip. Be sure to leave all valuables and passports safely secured in your hotel room, along with your travel insurance details in case of emergencies. Now you have covered the basics, you are ready to explore. Here are just five fabulous things to see and do while visiting Paris.

Eiffel Tower- The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognised monuments in the world. However, it is a totally different experience to be seeing the real thing. You will be amazed at the sheer size and architecture. You have to take the elevator to the top to get a view of a lifetime. The first floor has displays depicting the history of the tower. There is also a restaurant on the first floor, Altitude 95, for which early booking is advisable. If you book far enough in advance you may be able to secure a table at the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor. When in Paris a visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must.

Centre Pompidou- If you love modern art and architecture you have to visit the Centre Pompidou. It is more than a mere museum. This place is dedicated to any and all forms of contemporary and modern conceptual art forms. All art forms, including literature, music, theatre and film are celebrated here. The centre – which contains the modern art museum, the public library and the musical and acoustic research centre – was the brainchild of President George Pompidou. His vision was for a centre of entirely contemporary culture. One of the most distinctive architectural designs around, the building was designed by Renzo Piano.

The exhibits here are always changing so every time you visit it is a new experience. The three bookshops have collections on any form of art imaginable. Fun and funky gifts and souvenirs can be purchased at the museum’s design boutique. Panoramic views of Paris can be enjoyed whilst dining at George’s, on level six. On leaving the museum and the centre there is still plenty to see. Street art and sculptures can be found in abundance on the pavements outside the building. A visit to the Pompidou Centre will be a memorable one.

Louvre Museum- The Louvre Museum is probably the world’s most famous art museum. It is where you can view da Vinci’s most famous painting, the “Mona Lisa”. This museum is the oldest museum in Europe and was founded in 1793. It contains a range of exhibits as diverse as Islamic art to ancient Egyptian artifacts.

It would take you weeks to explore it in its entirety. The museum is in fact housed insidethe former French seat of the monarchy – the Louvre Palace. Eight themed departments hold over thirty-five thousand different pieces. In the permanent collections you can see masterpieces by Da Vinci, Vermeer, and Rubens. Particular movements or artists may also be represented in one of the temporary exhibits.

Arc de Triomphe- A climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe will give you an excellent view of Paris. It is just over fifty metres high! Napoleon Bonaparte is the figure behind the construction of this monument from which a fantastic view can be beheld. Commissioned in 1806, it was Napoleon’s monument to his own military genius and to the greatness of his army. The monument is now a French symbol of all things triumphant. The famous landmark hosts Bastille Day celebrations, as well as marking the finish line of the Tour de France. Both the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame are also located at this historical site, where you can pay your respects to the fallen and unidentified dead of two world wars.

Be warned – it’s a fairly arduous climb to the top. A total of two hundred and eighty steps need to be climbed to reach the top, but the view is worth it. A visit for the architecture alone to this famous French landmark is an absolute must when in Paris.

Musée d’Orsay- The Musée d’Orsay has one of the largest collections of sculptures, paintings, and art pieces produced between 1848 and 1914. Showcased here are many outstanding works of the early modern era. Inside you can view works by artists such as Degas, Monet, Van Gogh and Ingres. The permanent collections here cover everything from neoclassicism, impressionism and art nouveau design. If you have any interest in modern art, then this is a must-see for you.

Paris is both romantic and inviting. Paris has something for everyone; whether fine art, stunning architecture or a romantic and enticing atmosphere is what you seek, you will be sure to find it here.  Most people who come here on holiday will return again and again, just for the ambiance and beauty this city has to offer. The city and surrounding areas can easily be explored via public transport or car hire options. After one visit to Paris you may never want to leave, on account of all the amazing things this city has to offer!

This short city guide was brought to you by the UK’s leading gap insurance and car warranty specialists – the Click4Group.

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