Choose from 198 Fun Things to Do in Paris
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Les Ombres Restaurant
In the 7th arrondissement of Paris, Les Ombres restaurant is as famous for its view of the Eiffel Tower as it is for its menu designed by chef Jean-François Oyon. Set in a glass and iron-ceilinged atrium on the top floor of the Musee du quai Branly, the restaurant's outdoor patio looks out over the Eiffel Tower and makes for a popular place to enjoy contemporary French cuisine with a fusion twist.
Dishes depend on the season but can include combinations such as warm oysters with sabayon sauce and buttered leeks or escargot in wine sauce. Desserts range from Savarin cake in Limoncello to crispy chocolate fondants.
This destination restaurant is an ideal spot for a late dinner, over which visitors can enjoy seeing the Eiffel Tower light up and glitter gold every hour. Les Ombres is also open for lunch.
Practical Info
On 27 Quai Branly in the 7th Arrondissement, Les Ombres is open from noon until 2 p.m. and from 7 p.m. until midnight daily. The restaurant is a few minutes' walk from Alma-Marceau metro station. Main courses cost between EUR 30 and EUR 50, while prix fixe lunch is EUR 38 and dinner costs EUR 82. Reservations are required.
Address: 27 Quai Branly, Paris, France
Hours: Daily, noon until 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. until midnight.
From $ 232
Manufacture Nationale des Gobelins
Housed in a series of 17th-century buildings on Avenue des Gobelins, the Manufacture Nationale des Gobelins is a government-run tapestry factory and museum dedicated to showcasing the historic art of tapestry weaving and traditional crafts.
Named after the Gobelin dynasty, a family of dyers who shot to fame after discovering a much sought-after scarlet dye in the 15th-century, the district became renowned throughout the 17th-century for producing tapestries under royal patronage of Henri IV and later, Louis XIV. It was Colbert, Louis XIV's minister who first formed the Manufacture Royale des Meubles de la Couronne (Royal Cabinet-Makers), bringing together the tapestry, cabinet and goldsmiths workshops in the area that today is home to the Manufacture Nationale des Gobelins.
Today the historic district is still a working entity, preserving the art form by producing and restoring tapestries from around the world. Although normally closed to visitors, several weekly guided tours allow visitors the chance to peek inside and watch the craftsmen at work. Visitors can learn about the origins and development of the historic crafts; discover how the dyes were found and produced; understand the years of work that goes into producing a single tapestry; and see the 17th-century weaving techniques still in use today. Displays of intricate hand weaving offer an insight into the painstaking process and there are often hands-on workshops available where visitors can try out their tapestry skills on an ancient loom. Also on site is the Galerie des Gobelins, displaying the royal factory collections and hosting a series of temporary exhibitions of ancient and contemporary art.
Named after the Gobelin dynasty, a family of dyers who shot to fame after discovering a much sought-after scarlet dye in the 15th-century, the district became renowned throughout the 17th-century for producing tapestries under royal patronage of Henri IV and later, Louis XIV. It was Colbert, Louis XIV's minister who first formed the Manufacture Royale des Meubles de la Couronne (Royal Cabinet-Makers), bringing together the tapestry, cabinet and goldsmiths workshops in the area that today is home to the Manufacture Nationale des Gobelins.
Today the historic district is still a working entity, preserving the art form by producing and restoring tapestries from around the world. Although normally closed to visitors, several weekly guided tours allow visitors the chance to peek inside and watch the craftsmen at work. Visitors can learn about the origins and development of the historic crafts; discover how the dyes were found and produced; understand the years of work that goes into producing a single tapestry; and see the 17th-century weaving techniques still in use today. Displays of intricate hand weaving offer an insight into the painstaking process and there are often hands-on workshops available where visitors can try out their tapestry skills on an ancient loom. Also on site is the Galerie des Gobelins, displaying the royal factory collections and hosting a series of temporary exhibitions of ancient and contemporary art.
Address: 42 Avenue des Gobelins, Paris 75013, France
From $ 149
Grand Canal
As you exit onto the back terrace of the Palace of Versailles, the breathtaking view of the royal gardens is dominated by the Grand Canal, which leads your eye to the farthest perimeter of the grounds. But although it is a spectacular feature of the park, it was designed and is used today as a practical feature of the gardens.
Constructed over the course of a decade in the late 17th century under the reign of Louis the XIV, its original name "“ Little Venice "“ came from the canal's inaugural gifts from the Doge of Venice: a full set of gondolas, complete with Venetian gondoliers. Also moored there were various ships and yachts built to the scale of the canal and used in elaborate water shows and recreations of famous battles. But the canal is also the main feature of the irrigation systems for the gardens, used to drain off water from the higher elevations and pumped back uphill to re-water them "“ a genius move for its time.
Today the Grand Canal is not only the jewel of the gardens of Versailles, but thanks to row boats for rent, it also provides a unique view of the palace as it has been viewed for centuries. And watching the summertime fountain shows and fireworks reflected in the Grand Canal is a memory that lasts a lifetime!
Address: Versailles, France
From $ 40
Chateau-Thierry Monument
The Château-Thierry Monument is a World War I memorial located in Aisne, France. Overlooking the Marne River valley, the monument was built in 1933 and commemorates the achievements of United States forces that fought in the region in 1918, notably for the Second Battle of the Marne during the wider German Spring Offensive. German advances in late May 1918 led the United States forces 3rd Division to assist the French troops in preventing the Germans from crossing the Marne River, holding the south bank until the counteroffensive forced German withdrawal, earning the nickname "Rock of the Marne" in the process.
The monument was designed by famed French-American architect Paul Cret, who also planned several war memorials and battlefield monuments across Europe and in the United States. The monument consists of a double colonnade rising above a long terrace, flanked by sculptured figures representing the United States and a map showing American military operations that took place in the region. The English inscription on the sculptures reads "This monument has been erected by the United States of America to commemorate the services of her troops and those of France who fought in this region during the World War. It stands as a lasting symbol of the friendship and cooperation between the French and American Armies." US servicemen who lost their lives in the ferocious Second Battle of the Marne are interred at nearby Aisne-Marne American Cemetery.
Practical Info
Chateau-Thierry Monument is located on a hill two miles west of Chateau-Thierry in the region of Picardie, 87 kilometers (60 miles) outside of Paris. It is reachable in just over an hour via route A4 and D1003. The cemetery is open daily to the public from 9am to 5pm, except December 25 and January 1. It is open on French bank holidays. There is ample on-site parking. Admission is free for everyone.
Address: Chateau-Thierry Monument, Chateau-Thierry, France
Hours: Open daily to the public from 9am to 5pm, except December 25 and January 1.
From $ 199
Butte-aux-Cailles
Walking the quaint cobbled streets of Butte-aux-Cailles, it's easy to forget that you're in Paris. With its rows of petite painted houses, family-run bistros and tiny boutiques, the lively neighborhood maintains the feel of a rural village, despite being just minutes south of the Seine.
The best way to explore Butte-aux-Cailles is on a walking tour, starting along the main streets of Rue des Cinq Diamants and Rue de la Butte aux Cailles, then ducking off to explore the maze of side streets and alleyways. Along the way, pay a visit to the Sainte-Anne de la Butte aux Cailles church, admire the pretty timber-fronted houses along Rue Daviel or take a dip at the famous Piscine de la Butte aux Cailles, fed by natural hot springs.
Most importantly, take the time soak up the ambiance of local life in the quartier "“ stop for a coffee in one of the terrace cafes, browse the small shops for local produce like honey and handicrafts, or buy a bag-full of croissants and pain au chocolats to munch on as you stroll through the Jardin Brassaï park.
Practical Info
The Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood is located in Paris' 13th arrondissement and the nearest Metro stations are Corvisart and Tolbiac.
Address: Butte aux Cailles, Paris, France
From $ 56
Aisne-Marne American Cemetery
Located at the foot of the hill where the infamously fierce Battle of Belleau Wood was fought in World War I, the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial overlooks the Marne Valley and is dedicated to the memory of lost soldiers. It was designed by famed French-American architect Paul Cret, who also planned several war memorials and battlefield monuments across Europe and in the United States. At 42 acres, it is one of the most important American cemeteries and memorials in France and commemorates the sacrifices and achievements of fighting men in the region, as well as the cooperation of French and American forces during World War I. Because of the role the US marines played in the battle, the Aisne-Marne Cemetery is often considered to be a pilgrimage site for American soldiers on leave. It features a T-shaped cemetery and a memorial chapel, which is built on top of a small hill, directly over the front-line trenches dug during the battle. Of the 2,288 burials in the cemetery, 251 contain unknown remains; 1,060 soldiers' names are inscribed on the Chapel's walls. Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial is located nearby the Chateau-Thierry American Monument and the Belleau Wood US Marines monument, which hold equally significant importance in military history of World War I.
Practical Info
Aisne-Marne American Cemetery is located in Belleau in the region of Picardie, 87 kilometers (60 miles) outside of Paris. It is reachable in just over an hour via route A4 and D1003. The cemetery is open daily to the public from 9am to 5pm, except December 25 and January 1. It is open on French bank holidays. There is ample on-site parking. Admission is free for everyone.
Address: Belleau Wood American Monument, Belleau, France
Hours: Open daily to the public from 9am to 5pm, except December 25 and January 1.
From $ 199
Air and Space Museum
Located within Paris-Le Bourget, one of Europe's busiest business airports, is one of the world's largest and oldest museums dedicated to aeronautics. The Air and Space Museum encompasses 1.6 million square feet (150,000 square meters) of hanger space showcasing more than 150 aircraft, including a 747, Concorde, DC3, Mirage and Ariane rocket, as well as a variety of aviation memorabilia dating back as far as the sixteenth century.
The Ballooning Era exhibit details the fascinating history of hot air and gas balloon flight, while the newly added Planete Pilote allows young visitors to take a seat in an aircraft cockpit, experience the buzz of an air traffic control tower or explore how a space station operates. An onsite planetarium takes visitors on a virtual journey into the heavens, while flight simulators teach them how crews operate real aircraft.
One weekend each month, the special Cockpits Secrets program takes visitors into some of the museum's legendary cockpits "” typically closed to the public "” to hear the stories and history of these great aircraft.
Practical Info
To get to the Air and Space Museum, take metro line 7 to Courneuve and then catch bus 152 to the museum.
Address: Aeroport de Paris-Le Bourget, Le Bourget 93350, France
Admission: 8 €
From $ 144
Le Caveau de la Huchette
Transformed from a medieval cellar into an atmospheric music venue, Le Caveau de la Huchette opened its doors in 1946, and quickly became a mainstay of the city's post-WWII jazz scene, hosting some of the world's greatest jazz musicians over the years. Jean-Paul Amouroux, Wild Bill Davis, Sidney Bechet, Lionel Hampton, Memphis Slim, Duffy Jackson, Nancy Holloway and Marcel Azzola have all taken to the stage at Le Caveau de la Huchette, among countless others.
Today, Paris' oldest jazz club remains at the epicenter of the capital's still-thriving jazz scene, and it's renowned for its electric live shows, which draw an equal measure of locals and tourists, and are held almost every night of the week.
Practical Info
Le Caveau de la Huchette is located on rue de la Huchette in Paris' Latin Quarter and is open Sun-Wed 9:30pm-2:30am, and Thu-Sat 9:30pm-4am. Entrance fees start from €13.
Address: 5 Rue de la Huchette, Paris, France
Hours: Open Sun-Wed 9.30pm-2.30am
Admission: Entrance fees start from €13
From $ 208
Belleau Wood
The Battle of Belleau Wood saw the U.S. forces recapture the woods on the Metz-Paris road around Chateau-Thierry, taken at the end of May by the German Seventh Army forces. The June 1918 Battle of Belleau Wood was quite significant for the American Army, which often refers to this battle as a key component of the United States Marine Corps' lore and dedication; the soldiers, led by General John J. "Black Jack" Pershing, held off a critical sector of the final German offensive, teaming up with the French and British forces to stop the advances that would eventually lead to the German Empire's recognition of the Armistice of November 11"”one of the first actions of the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe.
Once the site of a fierce battle that caused substantial casualties, Belleau Wood is now home to a vast memorial in honor of the three-week long action. In the center of the road leading to the woods is a flagpole and a monument, erected in commemoration of the valor and bravery of the 4th Marine Brigade who captured this area in 1918 as well as the actions of the of the U.S. Army's 2nd Division, who not only survived but overpowered the German attacks. Shell holes, war relics, weapons and trenches can be found in heaps in the vicinity, especially near the monument. The entire site is dedicated to the sacrifices and achievements of fighting men in the region, as well as the cooperation of French and American forces during World War I.
Practical Info
Belleau Wood is located in Belleau in the region of Picardie, 87 kilometers (60 miles) outside of Paris. It is reachable in just over an hour via route A4 and D1003. It is located on the high ground to the rear of the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery.
Address: Belleau, France
From $ 199
Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou in Paris houses the Musee National d'Art Moderne, one of the best collections of modern and contemporary art in the world. With its futuristic industrial design by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, the Centre Pompidou is an icon of 20th-century architecture.
The Basics
Built in 1971, the Centre Pompidou was designed with its insides on the outside, freeing up all interior space for exhibitions. The external plumbing, pipes, vents, and cables make the center look almost Lego-like. Highlights of the Musee National d'Art Moderne include pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Dalí, and Pollock.
Many full-day sightseeing tours of Paris include a visit to the Centre Pompidou. Those with a particular interest in modern art can take a small-group or private tour of the Centre Pompidou to learn about surrealism and current trends in contemporary art from a guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Centre Pompidou is a must-see for modern-art aficionados.
- Enjoy skip-the-line entry to the Centre Pompidou with the Paris Museum Pass.
- Venture to the roof for panoramic views of the city and enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop restaurant.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible, and special tours are available for blind or partially sighted visitors.
How to Get There
The Centre Pompidou is centrally located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris and is easily reached by public transportation. The center is within short walking distance of the Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, and Châtelet metro lines and is also accessed by the RER commuter train and several bus lines.
When to Get There
The Centre Pompidou is a popular attraction, so book tickets and tours ahead of time to avoid spending time waiting in line. The Musee National d'Art Moderne is busiest when new exhibitions open, on rainy days, and the first Sunday of each month, when museum admission is free. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Special Events at the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou prides itself on being both a museum and a hub for cultural events and festivities, with hands-on workshops, film showings, dance performances, and live music events year-round. Check the museum schedule to see what events are happening during your visit. Also, the streets surrounding the center are popular with street performers, jugglers, and mime artists.
Address: Place Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 34
Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery
The Meuse-Argonne Offensive took place towards the end of World War I, some 240 km (150 miles) east of Paris in northern France. In late 1918, Allied troops launched a 47-day offensive against the Germans, with more than 1.2 million Americans soldiers taking part, of which 26,000 were killed. Led by General John J Pershing, the US part in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive began on September 26, 1918, with nine American divisions moving through the Argonne Forest to the River Meuse, cutting off German rail communications and helping to trap the Germans on two fronts in northern France and Belgium. By October 11, US forces had penetrated the Hindenburg Line, and on November 1, Germany was in retreat across the entire front. The Armistice was called for 11am on November 11 and World War I was finally over.
The Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery is near Romagne-sous-Montfaucon in the department of Lorraine, and pays tribute to the US troops who died in the last great offensive of World War I. Covering 130.5 acres (52.8 ha), it is the largest US cemetery in Europe and has eight sections swathed in neat rows of white crosses marking the 14,246 US servicemen who are buried there. Opposite a tranquil reflection pool stands a white marble chapel, its flanking walls bearing the names of US soldiers whose bodies were never recovered after the war.
Practical Info
Rue du General Pershing, Romagne-sous-Montfaucon. Open daily 9am"“5pm. Renovations are due to start at the cemetery in mid-September 2015 (mooted to last a year), which will affect only parking and accessibility to the visitor center. The TGV to Meuse from Paris Est leaves five times a day and the journey takes just under an hour; from there it is a 38.5 miles to Romagne-sous-Montfaucon by hire car or taxi. Otherwise the best way to reach Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery from Paris is by organized tour or private car.
Address: Rue du General Pershing, Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, France
Hours: Open daily 9am"“5pm
From $ 284
Hard Rock Cafe Paris
A rock music temple if there ever was one, the Hard Rock brand doesn't require an introduction; not with 170 establishments worldwide! Both a restaurant, a bar and a museum, this peculiar Paris attraction has been drawing in rock music aficionados for over two decades now, thanks to an impressive collection of authentic memorabilia and mouth-watering American-themed menu (something seldom found in grands chefs-driven Paris). Loud rock music, a relaxed atmosphere, original cocktails and humongous quantities of food await at Paris' most American institution.
Golden records, guitars, costumes and other iconic memorabilia can be found at the restaurant's two-floor museum. Some of the most popular items include Jimmy Hendrix's paisley jacket, Whitney Houston's gown, AC/DC's Angus Young's iconic school boy costume, John Lennons's fox coat, Trent Reznor's broken Gibson Les Paul guitar, Eminem's overalls, to name a few. The brand's most loyal fans will certainly want to stop at the restaurant's gift shop, where they will be able to extend their pin collection (a popular tradition for Hard Rock fans is to get a guitar-shaped pin every time they visit a new location) with one from Paris.
Practical Info
Hard Rock Cafe Paris is located at 14, boulevard Montmartre in the 9th arrondissement, within walking distance from Richelieu-Drouot and Grands Boulevards metro stations and close to Opera Garnier and Musee Grevin. The restaurant is open from 11:45AM to 11:45PM, while the bar is open from 11:45AM to 1AM and the rock shop, from 9AM to 1AM.
Address: 14 Boulevard Montmartre, Paris, France
From $ 28
Montmartre Cemetery
Also known as the Cimitière du Nord, the Montmartre Cemetery is the third largest in Paris, after Père Lachaise and Montparnasse Cemetery. Opened in 1825, the necropolis contains some 20,000 graves, including those of author Émile Zola, painter Edgar Degas, and composer Hector Berlioz. It's a calm and evocative place for a stroll.
The Basics
On the site of an abandoned quarry, Montmartre Cemetery is one of the largest and most significant graveyards in Paris. Located below street level, and partially shadowed by the Pont Caulaincourt (a 19th-century bridge), the landmark has a tranquil and tucked-away ambiance. Known as the final resting place of numerous cultural figures, such as author Alexandre Dumas and filmmaker François Truffaut, the cemetery can be explored independently or on a walking tour of Montmartre.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cemetery is free for all visitors to explore.
- Montmartre Cemetery has steep slopes and uneven pavements, making it difficult to explore for those with mobility issues.
- In addition to many creative luminaries, the Montmartre Cemetery is also home to a community of local cats.
How to Get There
To reach the Montmartre Cemetery, take Metro Line 2 or 13 to Place de Clichy, or take Line 13 to La Fourche. The landmark can also be reached via bus Nos. 30, 31, 54, 56, 80, 85, and 95, as well as the Montmartrobus (a special bus that makes it easier to navigate this famously hilly neighborhood). Alternatively, travel by car or taxi, by Velib' bike, or on foot.
When to Get There
The Montmartre Cemetery is open daily year-round, except in cases of severe inclement weather. The landmark is famously shaded by hundreds of trees, so it's especially appealing to explore on sunny spring and summer days.
Additional Montmartre Highlights
Once you've braved the heights of hilly Montmartre, it's worth combining your cemetery visit with stops at other local landmarks. Continue to Sacre-Coeur Basilica for some of the best views overlooking Paris, explore the Musee de la Vie Romantique to learn more about the area's artistic heritage, and stroll past the iconic Moulin Rouge.
Address: 20 Avenue Rachel, Paris, France
From $ 29
Jardin des Plantes
Originally known as the Jardin du Roi, the Jardin des Plantes was founded in 1626, and was used as King Louis XIII's personal herb garden. Today, the expansive botanical garden is the largest and most important in France. It encompasses several gallery spaces, a zoo, numerous garden areas and hothouses, and a working botany school.
The Basics
Located along the Seine in Paris' 5th arrondissement, the Jardin des Plantes is an oasis-like green space that makes for a perfect urban retreat. Covering a total of 69 acres (28 hectares), it's the largest botanical garden in France, and it has been a registered Historic Monument since 1993. The Jardin des Plantes comprises numerous individual gardens that showcase both native French species as well as exotic specimens from around the globe. Additionally, it houses several museum spaces (including the Gallery of Evolution, the Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology, the Gallery of Paleontology, and the Gallery of Botany, and the Children's Gallery), as well as a botanical school and the Menagerie, a zoo.
You can admire the Jardin des Plantes on a river cruise down the Seine; although it's free to enter, guided tours provide detailed insight about what's before you.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Jardin des Plantes is free, although the Menagerie is ticketed separately.
- The garden's collection comprises more than 10,000 plant species, and it's home to one of the oldest and largest herbariums in the world.
- The majority of the garden spaces are wheelchair-accessible; while the Jardin des Plantes doesn't have its own parking spaces, there are lots nearby.
How to Get There
The nearest station to the Jardin des Plantes is the Gare d'Austerlitz, a major transit hub that's served by Metro lines 5 and 10, by the RER C, and by numerous SNCF trains. It can also be reached by the 24, 57, 61, 63, 67, 89, and 91 bus lines. As with the majority of Paris' centrally located attractions, it's also easily accessible by foot, by car, or by Velib'.
When to Get There
The Jardin des Plantes is open daily from 7:30am"“8pm in summer, and from 8am"“5pm in winter. While the majority of its garden spaces are open during that period, some (like the Alpine Garden and the Irises and Perennials Garden) have shorter hours. Depending on your interests, it's worth researching individual opening times in advance of your visit; the garden complex also hosts temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year.
The Menagerie
Having opened in 1694, the Menagerie at the Jardin des Plantes' is one of the world's oldest zoos. Following the French Revolution, the first animals were transferred here from the Palace of Versailles, where they had been kept by French royalty. Today, the Menagerie is still home to thousands of animals, ranging from orangutans and red pandas to snow leopards and crocodiles.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 20
Fort Douaumont
Built in the late 19th-century in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War, the hilltop Fort Douaumont was Verdun's largest and highest fortress, looming 388-meters above the notorious Verdun battlefield. The heavily armed fortress was designed to be the most strategically important of Verdun's mighty defenses, but instead it earned its notoriety during the bloody Battle of Verdun in 1916, when a shocking 300,000 soldiers were killed, and a further 400,000 were wounded. Suffering large destruction and manned by only a small garrison, Fort Douaumont quickly fell into German hands and became a key battle site throughout the 300-day standoff.
Today, the once mighty fort lies in ruins, but visitors can still tour the bunkers, barracks and command posts, designed to accommodate up to 600 soldiers; view the machine gun turrets and take in the views from the fort's high vantage point. A memorial and graveyard is also located on-site, erected in honour of the 679 German soldiers killed when an accidental cooking fire triggered a massive explosion and firestorm in the fort "“ another tragedy resulting in heavy casualties.
Practical Info
Fort Douaumont is located around 10km northeast of Verdun, and is open from February to November, daily from 10am-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €4.
Address: Douaumont 55100, France
Hours: Open daily 10am-6pm Feb-Nov
Admission: €4
From $ 284
Bercy Village
Once the buzzing center of Paris' wine trade and home to the biggest wine market in the world, Bercy Village has now reinvented itself as one of the city's most unique shopping destinations, thanks to an urban renewal project that started in the 1990s. Today, the vintage and modern stand side-by-side, with the 19th-century wine cellars and warehouses repurposed as shops, clothing boutiques and art galleries. The old train tracks, where barrels of wine would arrive from regions like Bordeaux, are still embedded in the cobblestone streets.
Wine tasting is still a popular activity in Bercy Village, but it's also a beautiful spot for a walking tour. With its historic architecture, tranquil Bercy Park and plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars make for a delightful mid-sightseeing pause. There are also over 30 shops to browse, selling art and handicrafts, artisan foods, fashion and gifts, including big names like Parisian perfumer Fragonar, L'Occitane, Oliviers & Co and Sephora, plus a multiplex cinema and a spa.
Practical Info
Bercy Village is located in Paris' 12th arrondissement and the nearest metro station is Cour Saint-Emilion. Opening times of shops and restaurants vary, but are typically daily from 11am-9pm in high season.
Address: 28 Rue François Truffaut, Paris 75012, France
Hours: Most shops are open daily 11am-9pm
From $ 149
Chateau de Pierrefonds
With its striking white stone façade and attractive jumble of crenellated towers and pointed turrets, the majestic Chateau de Pierrefonds has all the presence of a fairy tale castle, set against the equally enchanting backdrop of the Compiègne forest. Originally built in the 15th-century by Philippe d'Orleans, the castle was torn down by Louis XIII in the 17th century, then rebuilt by celebrated architect Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th-century as an imperial residence for Napoleon III.
In recent years the castle has also made a name for itself as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, most notably Les Visiteurs, The Man in the Iron Mask and hit BBC series Merlin. Visitors can explore the Great Courtyard, the lavish state rooms, the chapel and the keep, as well as following the parapet-walk and walking the drawbridge.
Practical Info
Chateau de Pierrefonds is located in Ile-de-France, around 80km northeast of Paris, and is open May-Aug daily from 9.30am-6pm and Sept-April daily except Mon from 10am-1pm and 2-5.30pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €7.50.
Address: Rue Viollet le Duc, Pierrefonds, France
Admission: Adults: €7.50
From $ 144
École Militaire
The École Militaire is a large complex of buildings located in the 7th neighborhood (arrondissement) of Paris that houses several different military training facilities. The original military school was founded in 1750 by Louis XV, who wanted to create an academic college for cadet officers from poor families. One of the school’s more well-known students was Napoleon Bonaparte, who graduated from the École Militaire in one year instead of the standard two. The impressively decorated building is still home to a training school for officers in the French army. The buildings are located within sight of the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero – very close to the Champ de Mars, which originally served as a parade ground for the school’s troops and students. The front facade of the building (facing the Eiffel Tower) is decorated with true 18th-century grandeur and still contains bullet holes where German units made a ‘last stand’ prior to the liberation of Paris in WWII.
Practical Info
The École Militaire is located at the end of the Champ de Mars park (side note: this park was named after Mars, the Roman god of war). Because the school is still in active service, it is not open to the public (except once a year on the journée du patrimoine). However, it is worth checking out on your walk to the Eiffel Tower and/or the Champ de Mars.
Address: 87, avenue de Suffren, Paris 75007, France
Hours: Not open to the public
From $ 29
Aquarium Tropical de la Porte Doree
Paris's tropical aquarium was constructed in 1931 by French architect Albert Laprade and it was intended as a permanent reminder of the Paris Colonial Exposition; the building has a distinctive colonnaded façade designed to resemble a classical Greek temple and it is a monument to Art Deco styling. The exterior walls are covered in bas-relief carvings of more than 250 figures and animals depicting life in France's colonies, which were created by sculptor Alfred Janniot. Today the aquarium makes a great family afternoon out, with over 5,000 animals and fish from more than 300 colorful species on display, from barracudas to turtles and starfish.
Recent additions to the aquarium are two rare young albino alligators, while temporary exhibitions take on weighty subjects such as global warming and conservation. Upstairs in the Palais de la Porte Doree is a small museum showcasing the story of immigration into France from her colonies, but the most spectacular part of the Palais de la Porte Doree is the ground floor, with walls adorned with friezes of colonial scenes and stylish Art Deco furniture on display in the banqueting hall.
Practical Info
Palais de la Porte Doree, 293 avenue Daumesnil. Open Tue"“Fri 10am"“5.30pm; Sat"“Sun 10am"“7pm. Admission €5; concessions €3.50; under 4s go free. Family ticket €11. Take metro Line 8 to Porte Doree.
Address: 293 Avenue Daumesnil, Paris 75012, France
Hours: Open Tue"“Fri 10am"“5.30pm; Sat"“Sun 10am"“7pm
Admission: €5
From $ 144
Walt Disney Studios Park
Most visitors to Disneyland Paris make a beeline for the Disneyland Park, but don’t miss out on a trip to the adjoining Walt Disney Studios Park too, where you’ll find even more shows, rides and Disney-themed fun. The smaller of Disneyland Paris’ two theme parks is devoted to unveiling the magic behind the movies and it’s designed like a Hollywood movie studio, with four distinct areas - Front Lot, Toon Studios, Production Courtyard and Backlot.
As well as taking a studio tram tour, watching dazzling displays of stunts and special effects and learning how your favorite Disney films were created, there’s also a host of thrilling rides and iconic Disney characters to meet. Highlights include the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, Ratatouille: The Ride, Flying Carpets Over Agrabah, and the Toy Story Playland.
Disneyland© Paris
Disneyland© Paris
Practical Info
Walt Disney Studios Park is located at Disneyland Paris, 32 km east of central Paris, and can be reached by train from the city or shuttle bus from the Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports.
Address: Place des Passagers du Vent, Chessy, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 61