Here are two of the more unusual facts that I’ve read recently about France and it’s capital Paris. For example, France is the most visited country in the world by tourists. Another strange one is that the most disappointing tourist attraction in the world in the Eiffel Tower. Who came up with these so called facts is not exactly clear but the truth is that there is plenty to see and do in France and Paris that you won’t be left twiddling your thumbs next time you plan a visit. Here is some must see things while you are there.
First stop is the Eiffel tower. Despite the above or even just so that you can have your own opinion, the Eiffel tower is a must do in Paris. Most people would recognize it as the first venue to visit in Paris and it provides a spectacular view when you get up to the top. The view is made better if you know what you are looking at so get a guide or map beforehand. Depending on the time when you visit Paris, the downside of the tower is the waiting. It can take a long time to get up to the top because of the queues. Winter time is better for queues and the view is just as good on most occasions.
The Louvre is one of the most famous museums and art galleries in the world without doubt and a must see when in Paris. Of course everyone wants to see the Mona Lisa and you may have to queue at times, but there are thousands of other paintings and exhibits that you could spend days wandering round.
There are plenty of other museums to see in Paris. One that might not get so much attention in the tour guides is the Rodin museum. Rodin is the Victorian era sculptor behind iconic statues such as the Thinker and the Kiss. The museum is actually set in a venue where he lived for a time. Many of the monuments and statues are outside, with the thinker in the front garden.
Montmatre is a district in the 18th arrondissment that is popular and picaresque. It garnered a reputation as a favorite haunt for many struggling artists during the 19th century that went on to become the central creative forces of the impressionist and surrealist movements. After that it has become a must see location for tourists and popular location for many films, both French and foreign. The square is a popular place to eat during the day and plenty of nightclubs off the beaten track to visit at night. The centerpiece is the Basilica of the Sacre Coeur. Not far from the metro exit you will find the sweep stars that will take you to the front of the Basilica (or you can take the railway funicular).
The metro is a great transport system that can get you to most places in Paris and is reliable and efficient. Although this is just the tip of the iceberg of places to see when visiting Paris, for a first time tourist they are must see things if you are on a tight deadline.
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