subject: Exploring Paris, France On Foot [print this page] France is the largest country in Western Europe and has a great many things to offer people visiting all year round. It is not all about the wine and the cheese as many who have never been to France seem to think, but instead a plethora of cultural exploration, historical sites and recreational endeavors. This article will focus on things to do and see on foot in Frances capital of Paris.
The main attraction in Paris is actually the city in itself. Few cities have left their imprints on the rest of the world the way Paris has. The Parisians themselves tend to walk quite often and far. Since two thousand and seven, however, they have also started biking when Paris became world number one at renting bikes to the public.
You may want to start simply by observing the houses, the zinc coated roofs typical to Paris and the difference in ceiling height between floors depending on social status. Compare the small-townish buildings of Montmartres to the newer and grander ones at the foot of the hill.
Get lost in the trendy Marais quarters with its jumble of streets and ask yourself how this area used to be pure slums as late as into the nineteen sixties. Take a break on either of the many bridges that cross the river Seine and wonder at the view that Hitler once wanted to destroy. The municipality of Paris will soon expand the use of the river Seine for public transport with boat busses and taxis, making it easier to get around.
Have a seat at a caf in the Luxembourg garden or the Tuilerie Park and contemplate that this park was the worlds first to exhibit statues stolen from kings and other nobilities to the great pleasure of the people, or that they a stone throw away were put under the guillotine for the same reasons.
It is first after this magnificent walk of exploration, that you should start thinking about which of all the different attractions and sights that you want to visit. Here are a couple of obvious suggestions.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a must at least for the first time visitor. Most people are surprised at the sheer size of the structure once they stand directly under it. No directions are really needed as the tower is clearly visible from all open areas of Paris. Just follow the Seine with the tower in sight and you will eventually come upon it on the southern side of the river. The Eiffel Tower was built between eighteen eighty seven and eighteen eighty nine to stand as the grand entrance to the world exhibit - Exposition Universelle arranged to celebrate the hundred year anniversary of the French Revolution.
The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum does not just house one of the most wonderful collections of art in the world; the building is a piece of art in itself. The Louvre was initially built as a royal palace for Philippe II during the late twelfth century and has since been added to several times by following kings. If you are an art buff you could easily spend several days here. For most people one day is sufficient enough to get a glimpse Leonardo da Vincis Mona Lisa and the thousands of other gems. The palace area starts in end of the Champs-Elysees.
