Maison Antoinette is located in a thriving residential district near to Trocadero, a popular Parisian spot that features over 93,000 square metres of parkland and offers showstopping views of the Eiffel Tower. Strolling through the English-style gardens is a wonderful way to spend the day. Here you can enjoy plants of all varieties and magnificent sculptures, before marvelling at the water cannons, fountains and arches that offer an aquatic spectacle not to be missed. Oliver recommends visiting at night, when it’s all lit up to emphasise the basin and surrounding areas - it’s just magical!
There is a huge presence of Paris culture here, in particular the Chaillot Palace, which is home to a number of exhibitions. In the Passy wing you’ll discover the National Navy Museum, with collections devoted to the history of the French Navy, while the Paris wing is home to the museum of French monuments. Lovers of the arts will be pleased to know that the Chaillot National Theatre is located nearby - just beneath the Esplanade des Droits de l’Homme - and features a dazzling programme of events, including plenty that focus on contemporary dance.
There are many attractions around Trocadero that are well worth visiting while you’re in the area, including some interesting and unusual museums. The Tokyo Palace is dedicated to modern art and features temporary exhibitions offering new perspectives on modern society and history. Permanent collections here introduce visitors to the works of Picasso, Dufy, Derain, Picabia and many more. The Palais Galliera is a must if you are a lover of fashion, showcasing costumes from the eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Paris is considered one of the pioneer cities of fashion, and here you’ll learn how fashion has evolved, as well as find out more about some of the most important fashion figures in the world.
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.
