Paris is one of the most popular tourism hotspots in Europe – and it’s little wonder as it is positively littered with monuments and historic attractions. Whenever I visit I feel as though there simply aren’t enough hours in the day to see everything I want.
- Notre DamecuellarÂ
While the French capital is crammed with lots of hidden gems too, if it’s your first visit there is nothing wrong with wanting to see the most famous landmarks the city has to offer. If this is the case, read on for my five picks that I think are simply not to be missed during a break staying in a budget hotel in Paris.
Notre Dame
This marvel of gothic architecture is the religious heart of Paris and a stunning sight to behold. During most of the visits I have paid to it, large expanses of the building have been obscured by scaffolding – but there’s no hiding it’s true beauty.
Step inside to see the amazing effect of the light shining through the coloured panes and climb up to the tower so you can look out over Paris. This is where hunchback Quasimodo lived so you will be able to enjoy the exact same view he did in the famous tale.
Place de la Concorde
This square has seen its fair share of historic moments over the years. It is here the Treaty of Friendships and Exchanges was signed between Louis XVI and the Second Continental Congress of the US, while the same monarch was guillotined here in 1793.
Today you can marvel at some of its most famous sites, including the Egyptian obelisk, or simply take a stroll and admire the unbeatable view of the whole length of the Champs Elysees and Arc de Triomphe.
Eiffel Tower
It goes without saying that the Eiffel Tower is somewhere you should visit when in Paris and my recommendation is that you do so – even if it’s just for a few minutes and a quick photo opportunity. This is the symbol of Paris and was constructed for the 1889 World Fair.
You can take a walk up it for unbeatable views across the city, or laze on the grass and look up at it from the Parc du Champ de Mars below.
The Louvre
Of course, it could be argued that most of the attractions of the Louvre lie inside its walls and while I would never try and dissuade you taking a tour of the art gallery, I still think you should spend a little time admiring it from the outside.
The early fortress was constructed in the 12th century, but it has been extended so many times over the decades to transform it into a lavish palace that there is little visible evidence of its military roots. Its latest addition is the glass and metal pyramid that marks its entrance.
Moulin Rouge
If there’s any symbol that perfectly represents the Belle Epoque era the city enjoyed in the late 19th century it’s the windmill of the Moulin Rouge. It was built in 1889 and people keen to enjoy an evening of absinthe and dancing girls could easily identify the cabaret club by the red windmill on its roof.
Today you can still book a table here and enjoy the entertainment as you tuck into a slap-up meal. Treat yourself to dinner here or just visit to take a snap once night has fallen and the lights come on – either way it will mark the perfect end to your time in Paris.
