Located in an idyllic spot within walking distance of the River Seine, Apartment Lya is also near the Luxembourg Gardens. A simply majestic spot, the Gardens were created in 1612 by Marie de Medici and span 60 acres. A nature lover’s heaven, you’ll find a luscious garden, a splendid fountain, and a large pond surrounded by elegant sculptures. Photographers will be keen to get some gorgeous shots of this unmissable scenery. History buffs will enjoy taking a tour of the Palace of Luxembourg. At the same time, art lovers will be keen to visit the Orangerie Museum, where you can see a fascinating collection of Monet’s Water Lilies.
Architecture lovers will fall in love with the Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic-style chapel in the heart of Paris. The monument epitomises grandiosity and spirituality with its magnificent stained-glass windows displaying epic biblical scenes. You’ll also find the Notre Dame, the Conciergerie and the Pont Neuf within walking distance of the iconic chapel. Boasting incredible architecture and unparalleled beauty, you won’t want to miss any of these sights. One of the most renowned examples of French Gothic architecture, a fire tragically broke out at Notre Dame in 2019 while extensive efforts have been underway to restore it. Located on the Île de la Cite, you can also learn about the fascinating history of the Conciergerie, a former palace turned prison that played an essential role in the French Revolution. The Pont Neuf is a historic bridge in the city centre. Meaning’ New Bridge’ in English, it’s the oldest bridge across the River Seine in Paris. It offers an epic opportunity to absorb the scenic views and take some enviable skyline snaps.
If you fancy a day trip further afield, you should visit the Palace of Versailles, located about 20km outside Paris and accessible by train or tour bus. Boasting extraordinary grounds, the top highlights of the Palace include the famous Hall of Mirrors and gorgeous gardens spanning over 800 hectares. Returning to the city centre, architecture lovers will also be wowed by the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a Roman Catholic church situated in the vibrant Montmartre district. Known for its stunning dome, you’ll witness more panoramic city views here.
Heading to some of the most touristic spots in the city, the Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Constructed in honour of those who fought and died during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, you can learn all about the poignant history of the site. It’s also easily accessible via the Charles de Gaulle-Étoile metro station.
You must visit the historic heart of Paris and the wondrous Eiffel Tower! The monument has become synonymous with Paris and is a must-see tourist attraction. The atmosphere during the day is unmissable, and it makes for quite the unforgettable, romantic experience at night! Once you’ve taken in the views, you can enjoy a picnic in the surrounding luscious green space, entertained by the cheerful bustle of tourists and street performers.
Many great dining options are located near and around the Eiffel Tower, including Le Champ de Mars and Le Suffren, a more casual brasserie-style restaurant serving traditional, delicious French cuisine. Of course, no foodie experience would be complete without tasting a vast array of Paris’ famed baked goods, and there are gorgeous bakeries and patisseries spread across the entire city. Some of the most highly recommended include the Boulangerie Bo, which offers unique flavours in the trendy Marais district, and Blé Sucré, located in the 12th arrondissement and renowned for its divine croissants! Bon appétit!
The Region
Fall in love with la ville lumière during your time in Paris, one of the most famous capital cities in the world.
Everyone has different reasons for visiting this beautiful city. Perhaps you hope to visit some of Paris’ fine museums and art galleries, climb the Eiffel Tower or shop to your hearts content along the iconic boulevards. You may prefer to simply wander around the city parks, enjoy leisurely lunches on the left bank before strolling across Pont Neuf to admire the grandeur of the Louvre.
Discover the many charming neighbourhoods of Paris following the footsteps of famous writers, artists and philosophers. Start off on the right bank in Le Marais, the Jewish quarter, with its boutiques, old bakeries and kiosks selling delicious falafel (expect a queue!) – take a guided walking tour to learn all about this neighbourhood’s heritage. On the other side of the river, soak up the student ambience of the Latin Quarter, home to La Sorbonne, and sip coffee on a café terrace on Boulevard Saint-Germain for a truly iconic Parisian experience.
Meanwhile, a walk around Jardin du Luxembourg is a must, especially for families who will adore the little boats by the fountain, donkey rides, carrousel and a popular new playground (with an entry fee). Pack a picnic and sit on a bench beneath the shady trees as you people watch Parisians and tourists alike making the most of this atmospheric park.
Keen shoppers will appreciate the likes of Galeries Lafayette as well as the luxury stores of the Champs-Elysées. If you are visiting Le Centre Pompidou, you could also walk up to the vast Forum des Halles for recognisable brands in central Paris. Not forgetting the many markets from the twice-weekly Bastille Market selling delicious food to the sprawling weekend flea market at Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen that dates back to the late 19th century.
Embrace the romantic ambience of Paris when you walk by the river on La Rive Droite with beautiful views as you pass Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité. It’s especially lovely as evening nears with vibrant bars by the riverside whilst children will love the play areas and climbing walls as you stroll. Look out for the Eiffel Tower in the far distance which sparkles so magically on the hour from dusk.
