Paris never disappoints. In the morning, he greets you with a delicious buttery French croissant and good coffee, and in the evenings, to the sound of chansons, he invites you to a table with excellent French cuisine. Let yourself be seduced by him again and again.
The French capital is one of the most desirable holiday destinations, and not only because of its status as the city of love. The city is bursting with historical and architectural sights, museums and lovely shops. You will only enjoy Paris to the fullest by taking your time. So you sit down in a cafe and watch the people rushing past you. Step into one of the cute cafes and treat yourself to fresh croissants. Admire shop windows and listen to street musicians on the metro. Paris is the city of love, the city of light and dreams, a city that will enchant you in no time, if you don't rush around.
When to Paris?
Paris is beautiful in all seasons. In summer, when it is flooded with foreign tourists, cool off with a walk along the Seine, and in winter, explore the museums and galleries. If you visit Paris in the summer, when Parisians escape the heat to the countryside and the coast, you will be able to make the most of the pleasantly warm summer evenings. So, if you don't mind the crowds of tourists and crowds in front of the attractions, then July is the month for you. If you want to avoid the tourists, go to Paris between October and April, when the temperatures are still pleasant and the crowds are significantly less. The festive decorations in December also have a special charm, but prices rise due to the holidays.
Photo: Unsplash/John TownerWhat should I see in Paris?
Oh, where do we even begin?! Notre Dame is located on the banks of the Seine and is considered a true Parisian icon. This Gothic masterpiece is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, and its construction began in the 10th century and lasted as long as 200 years. It is without a doubt the symbol of Paris Eiffel Tower, created for the World Exhibition of 1889. During the Second World War, Hitler wanted to get rid of it, but fortunately he did not succeed. Today, you can take the elevator all the way to the top, from where you can enjoy a wonderful view over the entire city.
It also offers a beautiful view Sacré-Coeur Basilica, which rises above the city. It is located in the popular Montmartre district, which is worth visiting for its bohemian reputation and excellent cafes and restaurants. You can also walk along the beautiful Champs Elysées, all the way to the Arc de Triomphe, which was erected during the time of the great army during the time of Napoleon. If you've had enough of Parisian romance, head underground. The famous catacombs from the 18th century are an underground cemetery that was created due to the stench caused by the burial of the dead at that time.
Photo: Unsplash/Anthony DelanoixTake your time and visit one of the museums, either the famous Louvre or the Center Pompidou. Or both! The former is considered the best art museum in the world and boasts 35,000 works of art. The second is written for lovers of contemporary art. Even if you are not a fan of shopping, visit Galeries Lafayette, which is a kind of museum of modern fashion.
During the festive December season, it is adorned with magnificent steel that can be admired from all floors, but otherwise it is home to outstanding architecture and fashion brands. After dark, walk past the Moulin Rouge, a legendary club with feathered dancers and champagne. If you have a day left, visit the beautiful mansion Versailles, located outside the urban center of Paris. See the luxurious residence of the French kings and the exquisite gardens.
Photo: Unsplash/SebastienHow to explore Paris?
Two words – Paris Metro. The third longest subway in the world, with more than 300 stations, behind only London and Madrid. The metro is by far the fastest and best way to explore the city, and you can recognize it by the letter M. It runs from 5:30 a.m. until 1 a.m. in the mornings. If you miss it, you can rely on a bunch of reliable taxi drivers. If you have time, it is worthwhile to take a boat ride along the Seine and see the city from a different perspective.
How much is a plane ticket to Paris?
From April, you can fly with Transavia from Ljubljana to Paris for less than 100 euros. You can find flight tickets from 93 euros and up. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Reza RezvaniCovid-19 restrictions in France
Your stay in France will be greatly facilitated by the covid certificate, as this is the only way you will be able to visit museums, restaurants, bars and shopping centers. To enter the country, a HAT or PCR test is required, which must not be older than 24 hours. Vaccinated tourists do not need the test. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Paris
Let's start by explaining. Accommodation in Paris is anything but cheap, so expect to shell out at least €100 a night for two people.
9Hotel Bastille-Lyon
Just a few hundred meters away from the lively Bastille district, there is a lovely hotel that pampers guests every morning with a buffet breakfast. The rooms are tastefully furnished, including desks and air conditioning. The nearest metro is only five minutes away.
Slightly more expensive accommodation with a view of the Eiffel Tower:
Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon
Located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, Courtyard Paris Gare de Lyon offers guests a restaurant, a fitness center and a bar. The rooms are equipped with a TV and air conditioning. The hotel is located 2.2 km from Georges Pompidou Museum and 1.8 km from Notre Dame Cathedral.
