Paris Survival Guide now
Transcription
Paris Survival Guide now
SURVIVAL GUIDE CLICK TO OPEN SURVIVAL GUIDE Bonjour This is your go-to, tablet and mobile friendly, pocket guide to Paris. Worry no more about what to do on your next city break – the Expedia team have it covered. In this survival guide you will find all of the necessary information for a memorable trip to the capital of France. From basic French vocabulary and a comprehensive guide to public transport to all the information you’ll need on the city’s top attractions and hidden gems. Whether you’re travelling with your family, or if you’re looking for a more alternative venture, this guide covers all the aspects you’ll need for an enjoyable city break in Paris. Select an option Airport Transfers Public Transport Basic French Living Costs Weather Tourist Attractions TA SURVIVAL GUIDE Index Tourist attractions The City of Romance is so much more than its nickname suggests: think the Gothic spires of Notre Dame; famous paintings crucial to art movements at the Louvre; monuments reflective of political movements such as the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concorde; and historical bohemian culture echoed through the streets of Montmartre. These are the attractions that make Paris the alluring hotpot that it is. And yes, admittedly each one does have a certain subtle romantic allure. Select an option Young + Lively Couples Familes Off the beaten path Top Tourist Attractions Text Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Airport transfers Paris is home to two major international airports, Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Orly. The airports are the busiest in France, and host around 90 million visitors a year. Both offer a number of transport options to the city centre, and serve as a gateway into the country. Select an option Beauvals Tille Chalons Vatry Orly Charles de Gaulle PT SURVIVAL GUIDE Index Public transport Paris has a transport system befitting a city of its size and stature. The metro covers much of the interior and is used by 9 million people every day. There are also regular bus routes and RER trains available. Season tickets can be used on buses, trains and the metro. Select an option Metro Cycle Bus Train Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Young and lively Crazy Horse Nouvelle Eve Hint Hunt Paris Fashion District Panic Room Cacha Club La Bellevilloise Rex Club Moulin Rouge Tourist Attractions couples SURVIVAL GUIDE Index Tourist Attractions Couples Garden of hopeless romantics Tango on the Seine Rent a Scooter Go for a drive in a vintage Citroen Pink Flamingo Huitres Le Baron Rouge Les Ombress TTA Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist Attractions Top tourist attractions Louvre Eiffel Tower Arc De Triomphe Notre Dame Sacre Coeur Champs Elysees families SURVIVAL GUIDE Index Families Museum of Natural History Museum of Magic Louvre Treasure Hunt Science Museum Les 400 Cups Hard Rock Cafe La Pavillon des Oiseaux Crêperie Josselin Tourist Attractions obp Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Off the beaten path O Chateau Marche Raspail Free Street Art Palais Art Dans Le Noir Le Mono Au Chat Noir Supper Club Tourist Attractions W SURVIVAL GUIDE Index Weather Spring There's a reason people talk about Paris in the springtime: the sun comes back with enthusiasm as winter fades, while flowers bloom in parks and temperatures rise to a steady 20°C in May. Summer Summer begins in June and lasts till mid-September, with average temperatures wavering around 25°C in the daytime and the mid-teens at nighttime. With infrequent showers, summertime can showcase the best of Paris. Autumn October onwards experiences cooler temperatures around 10°C, however this is also the season when red and gold foliage makes Paris glow beautifully at dusk and cultural festivals crop up all over the city. Winter Paris sparkles with Christmas decorations long before December, but as the winter months progress, snow falls and often settles over the garrets and spires of the city skyline. Pure magic. Language Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Basic french Good morning - Bonjour. (bohng-zhoor) Good evening - Bonsoir. (bohng swahr) How are you? - Comment allez-vous? (kuh-mahng tah-lay voo?) Fine thank you - Bien, merci. (byahng, mehr-see) Do you speak English? - Parlez-vous anglais? (pahr-lay wooz ahng-leh?) Yes - Oui (wee) No - Non (nohng) Please - S’il vous plaît. (seell voo pleh) Thank you - Merci. (mehr-see) I’m sorry - Désolé(e). (day-zoh-lay) Excuse me (pardon) - Excusez-moi. (ehks-kuu-zay mwah) Excuse me (you’re in my way) - Pardon. (pahr-dohng) Where is the restaurant? - Où est le restaurant? (Oo eh luh restua-ron?) Can I have a menu please? - La carte, s’il vous plaît. (La cart, si’ vow play) The bill, please - L’addition, s’il vous plaît (La-deeshon, si’ voo play) Where are the toilets? - Où sont les toilettes? (Oo sont leh twa-letts?) Goodbye - Au revoir. (oh rvwahr) Good night (to sleep) - Bonne nuit. (buhn nwee) Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Public Transport Metro Paris Métro works in a very similar way to the London Underground. Five zones connect via 16 lines, making it quick and simple for you to get around the city. Find a paper map on the wall in each station, check out the official website before you travel or get an app for your phone to work out your route. A single ticket is valid for a one way trip to any Métro station in any zone. If you are catching an RER train (regional express network which works in a similar way to the Métro), you will need to purchase a billet Ile-de-France if you’re going outside Zone 1. It is probably better to get an International Visitors Card, which lets you travel as frequently as you wish, with the cost depending on the length of your trip. You can also get a weekly (Monday to Friday) Carte Orange pass if you plan on using transport extensively. The ticket machines only accept card payments so if you want to avoid the lengthy queues at the ticket booth, it’s advised that you carry you debit/credit card. Bus Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Public Transport Bus Jumping on a bus across Paris means you can take in the city’s sights while getting from A to B. Limited transfers from the Métro to the bus system allow you to use a t+ ticket on a bus up to 90s minutes after your first train journey of the day. Bear in mind that if you purchase a ticket on board the bus first, you can’t use it for transfers on the Métro. Buses normally stop running between 9 and 10pm, with a few night buses known as Noctilien running after hours. The Métro also stops between 12:30 and 1am, so be sure to plan your journey if you are staying out late. Train Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Public Transport Train You can reach the outer suburbs of Paris by using the trains ‘de banlieue’ (commuter rail) via six train stations in the city. These are: Gare Saint Lazare (western and south-western suburbs), Gare de l’Est (eastern suburbs), Gare du Nord (northern suburbs), Gare de Lyon (northern suburbs), Gare Montparnasse (south-western suburbs) and Gare d’Austerlitz (southern suburbs). Find ticket prices and schedules on the SNCF website and pay for your tickets at the station. Grandes lignes (mainline) trains can take you further afield. Travel to London, Brussels and Amsterdam from Gare du Nord; Germany and Luxemburg from Gare de l’Est; and Switzerland and Italy from Gare de Lyon. Book your tickets in advance for journeys outside of Paris at the Rail Europe website. The ticket machines only accept card payments so if you want to avoid the lengthy queues at the ticket booth, it’s advised that you carry you debit/credit card. cycle Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Public Transport Cycle VELIB is a free bike system in Paris with stations dotted around the city. Riding around the streets of Montmartre and beyond is the perfect way to feel like a quirky character from French cinéma! You will need a chip-embedded credit card to get a short-term membership, and a €150 deposit for between one and seven days (refunded after the hire period). A PIN and membership code will be given to you to check-out bikes for up to half an hour each time at stations. Here you will also find maps of the city, which show the different VELIB docks where you can return your bike. Cycling around is fairly easy. There are many bicycle lanes, including one that runs alongside the beautiful Seine River. If there is not a dedicated lane, cycle in the bus or taxi lane and look out for painted bicycle symbols on the road. Beauvals Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Airport Transfers Beauvals Tille Airport Beauvais Tille airport is situated near the city of Beauvais in Tille, northnortheast of Beauvais. It is about 80 kilometres away from Paris – something to bear in mind when booking your trip. This is mostly a budget airline airport, with Ryanair flying in from various European destinations. While it is further out from the city centre than other Paris airports, there are still plenty of transfer options on offer. You can take the train to Paris Gare du Nord or go via shuttle bus to a terminal next to Porte Maillot in Paris which is a station on the Paris Metro line in the north-west of the city. The ticket for the shuttle costs €17, however you can get a discount if you book online (€15.90) and children under 3 years travel for free. The shuttle service leaves between the two terminals at the airport and will take about 1h 15 minutes to get to the centre of Paris. Orly Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Airport Transfers Orly Airport The smaller of the two airports in Paris, Orly serves over 27 million passengers every year. The Orlyval light rail connection transports passengers to Antony station, which takes around eight minutes, where they can travel directly to Paris on the RER. The Orlybus shuttle takes 30 minutes and runs throughout the day. CDG Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Airport Transfers Charles de Gaulle Airport The larger of the two Parisian airports, Roissy Charles de Gaulle, is one of the busiest in the world, and has two train terminals taking passengers into the city. It costs around €9.50 to get to the centre and takes 30 minutes. There are a number of cheaper bus services available that take slightly longer. Chalons Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Airport Transfers Chalons Vatry Airport Some budget airlines fly into Châlons Vatry Airport, which is located to the North East of France. There isn’t any shuttle at the moment, so your best bet is to take a train from Châlons-en-Champagne station, around 20 minutes away from the airport. Your train will arrive into Paris Gare de l’Est, and will take just over an hour and a half. currency Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Currency and living costs Paris adopted the Euro in 2002 and although the city has a reputation for top-end goods, you can still stretch your holiday cents here. Metro transport is very affordable; a book of 10 tickets will cost you approximately €10. Attractions average about €7 to €9 for a museum/gallery visit, while refreshments range from €6 for a sandwich and coffee, to between €15 and €20 for a three course meal. Eating out prices vary according to where you sit (or stand) and should include taxes and service already, but you might want to reward good service with a 5 - 10% tip. Some banks in Paris may exchange foreign money, but it’s best to aim for one of the dedicated exchange bureaux found in tourist areas, and take ID with you. You can also withdraw from an ATM using a credit or debit card. Commission is usually charged for both methods. Louvre Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Top tourist attractions The Louvre Opening Hours Keep the smile on Mona Lisa’s face by paying her a visit at her home in The Louvre. Renowned for being one of the world’s best art galleries, you will find work from other greats like Michelangelo, Eugène Delacroix and Jacques-Louis David, as well as antiquities from Egyptian mummies to Greek ceramics in the museum. It’s not all about the Grand Gallery though - don’t miss the constant supply of temporary exhibitions and the Bois de Boulogne for a more modern art fix, a major contemporary gallery opened in 2014 by the Louis Vuitton Foundation. From mid-June to early September 9 a.m. to 6:00 pm (Tuesday, Wednesday, FridaySunday ) Open Thursday 10 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Closed Monday The rest of the year 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Tuesday, Wednesday, FridaySunday) Open Thursday 10 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Closed Monday. Skip the queues by purchasing an advanced ticket online - just don’t turn up on a Tuesday, when the museum closes for its weekly day off. Address Visit Website 1 Rue de la legion d’honneur 75007 France (WI-FI connection required) Click Here eiffle Index SURVIVAL GUIDE The Eiffel Tower Who would have thought that over 317 metres of latticed iron could be Paris’ most famous symbol of love and liberty? Designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 and built to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower soars up into the sky above the Seine, no less impressive today than it would have been to 19th century eyes. Take the lift (or 704 steps if you’re feeling up to it!) and enjoy panoramic views of the French capital like no other. Quench your thirst at the top with a chilled glass of Champagne - even better at dusk when La Tour glimmers into golden light. This is essential Paris for newbies and seasoned travellers alike. Top tourist attractions Opening Hours From mid-June to early September 9 a.m. to 12:45 a.m Last lift midnight (11p.m. for the top) 9 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Last admission : midnight* The rest of the year 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Last lift 11 p.m. (10:30* p.m. for the top) 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Last admission : 6 p.m.* Address Visit Website Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France (WI-FI connection required) Click Here arc de trio Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Arc de Triomphe Make your entrance into the city monumental, by walking through the world’s biggest triumphal arch, L’Arc de Triomphe. Built between 1806 and 1836, the 49.5 metre arch honours those who fought for France during the Napoleonic wars. Standing at the western end of the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, you can take the carefree approach and run the length of the avenue, before climbing the monument’s 40 stairs - if you have enough breath! - for a stunning panorama of Paris. You could always jump in a cab and drive through the gateway at night or, for the definitive experience, pay a visit on Bastille Day (July 14th) when a colourful parade and fireworks take over this part of the city. Address Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France Top tourist attractions Opening Hours Monday Friday 10:00 am – 10:30 pm 10:00 am – 10:30 pm 10:00 am – 10:30 pm 10:00 am – 10:30 pm 10:00 am – 10:30 pm Saturday Sunday 10:00 am – 10:30 pm 10:00 am – 10:30 pm Notre Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Notre Dame The Gothic grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral has dominated the eastern part of the Ile de la Cite for over 800 years. Tough enough to survive the French Revolution and WW2 occupation, its stained glass windows and gargoyle-protected towers made the perfect setting for Victor Hugo’s hugely popular novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Top tourist attractions Opening Hours Monday Friday 7:45 am – 6:45 pm 7:45 am – 6:45 pm 7:45 am – 6:45 pm 7:45 am – 6:45 pm 7:45 am – 6:45 pm Saturday Sunday 7:45 am – 6:45 pm 7:45 am – 7:30 pm Today you can make like Quasimodo and climb the 400 steps to the top of the tower - though you can’t actually ring the bells yourself, listen out at Easter or All Saints Day to hear melodic sounds from South Tower as you gaze down at the serpentine Seine river. Best of all, exploring Notre Dame is free of charge every day of the year. Address Visit Website 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Place Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France (WI-FI connection required) Click Here sacre coeur Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Sacré Coeur Fans of Amelie, Moulin Rouge, Midnight in Paris or pretty much any film set in the French capital will have Montmartre at the top of their ‘must see’ list, and the Sacré Coeur basilica heads up this legendary Bohemian neighbourhood from its vantage point atop a 130-metre hill. Top tourist attractions Opening Hours Monday Friday 6:00 am – 10:30 pm 6:00 am – 10:30 pm 6:00 am – 10:30 pm 6:00 am – 10:30 pm 6:00 am – 10:30 pm Saturday Sunday 6:00 am – 10:30 pm 6:00 am – 10:30 pm Beneath the clean white domes you will find the crypt, grand organ and Apse Mosaic. Dating back to 1914, the guided audio tour will give you the full lowdown on its design and history, before you tackle the 300 steps up to the left Dome. Enjoy a moment overlooking meandering streets, cute brasseries and the bustling life below, providing the inspiration for so many works of art and film, including the posters of famous Montmartre resident Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Address 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France Visit Website (WI-FI connection required) Click Here champs Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Champs-Elysées A Parisian rite of passage, stroll down this beautiful broad avenue under a canopy of trees and street lamps that glow in the twilight. Once no more than country fields, Avenue des Champs-Elysées was built in 1616 to guide citizens from the Tuileries (now the Louvre) to the main square, Place de la Concorde. Today, ‘La Plus Belle Avenue du Monde’ (the most beautiful street in the world) still gets you from A to B if you wish, but you could always pause for a while at fountain-adorned Jardins des Champs-Elysées, or explore The Petit Palais museum. Also a great opportunity for a spot of shopping and a nice bite to eat, festive-minded visitors should turn up on New Year’s Eve for one heck of a street party! Address The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a boulevard in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, 1.9 kilometres long and 70 metres wide, which runs between the Place de la Concorde and the Place Charles de Gaulle, where the Arc de Triomphe is located. Top tourist attractions crazy Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Le Crazy Horse Opening Hours Prepare to be dazzled with the ultimate French burlesque show at Le Crazy Horse de Paris, one of the capital’s iconic evening venues. Producing sophisticated cabaret since 1951, this is striptease like you’ve never seen it before, following artist Alain Bernardin’s vision of celebrating the female silhouette as a seductive and stylish art form. Enjoy spectacular choreography as dancers twirl, twist and sway under an kaleidoscopic light show of neon projections – and don’t be surprised if you catch a famous face or two alongside you in the audience! With a constantly changing programme of new shows and celebrity guest stars from Dita Von Teese to Kelly Brook, this is a true Parisian experience not to be missed. Monday Friday 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm Saturday Sunday 7:00 – 11:45 pm 8:15 – 11:00 pm Address 12 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, France Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively La Nouvelle Eve Witness the Cancan in its original home town at this grand theatre venue in the Art District of Montmartre. Founded in 1897, during Paris’ spirited ‘Fin de siècle’ period, you can still see a traditional line-up of circus, cabaret and revue shows on offer here. There are acrobats, jugglers, big musical numbers and, of course, the signature dance routine, complete with all the sequins, feathers and pizazz you could wish for. Painted stars twinkle above the velvet curtains in the elegant Belle Epoque interiors and you can dine on fillet steak, sip a glass of Bordeaux and simply soak up the entertainment. La Nouvelle Eve is a great alternative to its better-known Montmartre neighbour, the Moulin Rouge nightclub. Address 25, rue Pierre Fontaine 75009 Paris hint hunt Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Hint Hunt Opening Hours You have 60 minutes to escape a locked room, using only your brain power and teamwork. HintHunt® is a simple and new concept designed for groups of three to five people, perfect for families and friends taking a city break. Work together to solve puzzles, crack codes and use logic to unlock the door – and make sure you don’t lose track of time! Choose from several rooms, which include the Japanese themed Zen Room and the Detective Murder Mystery Room. You can book in advance with games starting from 21 Euros. And don’t panic: you are allowed to leave the manned rooms early if you need to get out for some reason. Monday Friday 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm 8:15 –11:00 pm Saturday Sunday 7:00 – 11:45 pm 8:15 – 11:00 pm Address 58 Rue Beaubourg, 75003 Paris, France Paris Fashion Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Paris Fashion District European sophistication and a chic attitude make Paris the fashion capital that it is today; it would be a crying shame if you did not take advantage of this! Chanel, Lanvin and Givenchy are just a few famous French fashion houses to adorn Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, which lies just off the Champs-Élysées. It is a street worth checking out if you appreciate couture window shopping, or splashing the cash on designer labels. From make-up, to home accessories and clothing you can treat yourself with goodies from the likes of Hermes, Dior and Louis Vuitton. The Louvre museum and Tuileries are nearby and a number of cafes are on hand for shopped-out sore feet. panic room Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Panic Room Opening Hours Find this vibrant bar-cum-club in the uber hip Parisian district surrounding Rue Oberkampf. Panic Room offers a genuinely cool space with a fashionable and young set creating the colourful atmosphere. Think trashy neon lights, loud beats and mirrored walls: an intimate and social setting for DJs and bands to show off their stuff. Cocktail connoisseurs will be delighted with the list of exciting concoctions being stirred up and shaken by friendly bar staff. Happy hour is between 6:30pm and 8pm, including champagne drinks! The two floors in Panic Room tend to get very busy, which only proves its popularity, but be prepared to dance very closely with fellow night owls. Monday Friday CLOSED 6:30 –2:00 am 6:30 –2:00 am 6:30 –2:00 am 6:30 –2:00 am Saturday Sunday 6:30 –2:00 am CLOSED Address 101 Rue Amelot, 75011 Paris, France Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Chacha Club Opening Hours Get your glad rags on for an indulgent affair spent at the Chacha Club. Work your way through this alluring labyrinth of club-barrestaurant and succumb to the devilish décor of red, black and gold. The evening food menu tempts you with classically French cuisine, which can be enjoyed on the outside terrace in the summer months. The dining room turns into a nightclub past midnight, where you can expect to dance the night away to some top DJs. Benicio Del Toro once partied here, so you have an idea about the potentially starstudded and fashionable clientele hanging out at this venue. It’s the perfect place to feel exclusive without paying for a membership. Monday Friday CLOSED 8:00pm –5:00 am 8:00pm –5:00 am 8:00pm –5:00 am 8:00pm –5:00 am Saturday Sunday 8:00pm –5:00 am CLOSED Address 47 Rue Berger, 75001 Paris, France La bellevilloise Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively La Bellevilloise Opening Hours Grab a few beers, catch a live band or party into the night at La Bellevilloise. Once home to the capital city’s very first workers’ cooperative, it is now a multitasking venue with a cool, colourful and hip vibe. The inhouse Halle aux Oliviers restaurant serves up contemporary yet tasty dishes in an urban setting, decked out with plentiful olive trees and wooden tables. You can then grab cocktails and check out the latest exhibition being shown on the top level before taking a seat on one of the deckchairs to admire the displays. For those looking to dance ‘til the small hours, music varies nightly from nostalgic 80’s hits to sophisticated jazz, so be sure to check out the listings before heading here. This is a cool but totally unpretentious spot in the heart or Paris that provides a playful atmosphere for whatever mood you’re in. Monday Friday CLOSED CLOSED 7:00pm – 5:00am 7:00pm – 5:00am 7:00pm – 5:00am Saturday Sunday 6:00pm – 5:00am 11:30pm - 5:00am Address 19-21 Rue Boyer, 75020 Paris, France rex club Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Rex Club Fancy yourself a bit of a house and techno aficionado? Then you’ll know that DJ legend Laurent Garnier opened this party mecca back in 1992, much to the delight of serious French clubbers. As relevant to today’s nightlife scene as it was back then, Rex Club opens its doors from 11:30 pm between Wednesday and Saturday. It invites you to ticketed events with resident record spinners including Alexkid and Jennifer Cardini, along with guest DJ and special club nights. This is the pinnacle of Paris’ clubbing scene and you are in good company if you appreciate only the very best beats. Hop off at Bonne Nouvelle Metro Station then hop back on in the small hours of the next morning. Address 5 Boulevard Poissonnière, 75002 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 12:00am – 7:00am CLOSED Saturday Sunday 12:00am – 7:00am CLOSED Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Young + Lively Moulin Rouge No trip to Paris is complete without a night at the dazzling Moulin Rouge, enjoying one of the world’s most prestigious cabaret shows. By day you’ll see tourists snapping pictures of the iconic red windmill, by night the Moulin Rouge transports guests back to 19th century bohemian Paris. An enchanting evening of glitz and glamour awaits with a cast of over 100 talented performers. Prepare to be mesmerised as entertainers take the stage to wow you with a selection of different theatrical performances including circus acts, comedy sketches and of course the traditional French can-can dance. Revel in the splendid display of exotic costumes and get set for an enthralling show. In true French style, the show is a combination of artistic choreography and spellbinding sets. The venue itself is exquisite, complete with dim lighting and plush décor. It’s the perfect spot to experience Parisian culture whilst sipping on a glass of bubbly. Why not make a night of it and indulge in one of the dinner and show packages? Address 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm 7pm - 1pm romantics Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Museum of Romantics Fancy something a little more cultural for your Parisian date? Stroll around this 19th century townhouse where French artist Ary Scheffer lived and you’ll be transported back to the original Romantic period, when the guest list for Scheffer’s parlour salons featured the likes of Charles Dickens, Frédéric Chopin and Eugene Delacroix. Set in the artistic neighbourhood of ‘New Athens’, the museum now houses portraiture by Scheffer, jewellery and artefacts from the collection by George Sand, as well as temporary exhibitions in the on-site studios. A tearoom opens in the summer months, perfect for enjoying a fragrant iced tea with your loved one in the quiet enclosure of the flower-lined gardens. Address 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday CLOSED 10:00am – 6:00pm 10:00am – 6:00pm 10:00am – 6:00pm 10:00am – 6:00pm Saturday Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm 10:00am – 6:00pm tango Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Tango on the Seine A swift dance by the River Seine at twilight is always going to be a romantic affair, no matter if you’re a tango pro, or have never danced before. One for the summer months, you’ll find all ages at this ritual dance-for-all on the left bank at Quai Saint Bernard, and plenty of opportunities to swap partners and brush up on your steps with a local. Lindy hop, Breton dance and Salsa are also on offer of an evening, amongst other dance styles. Even if you’re not taking part, the dancers are so well turned out and the atmosphere so romantic that it’s enough to simply observe with a good bottle of red by your side. vespa Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Rent a scooter When in Paris we recommend taking the mode of transport favoured by locals, which is of course a vintage Vespa or scooter. Imagine zipping around the picturesque streets of Montmarte with all the freedom that comes with travelling on two wheels. What a romantic way to spend the evening with your sweetheart – wind in your hair as you take in the beauty of the wonderful city. This suits visitors who have limited time and only want to make the stops that really interest them. You’ll need to be 21 and hold a full driving licence to rent a 125cc scooter here, which is usually the best option, especially if there are two of you on board. Average costs are €45 a day and around €110 for an entire weekend. Address Free Scoot, boutique located next to the Notre Dame at 63 quai de la Tournelle citroen Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Go for a drive in a vintage Citroen For a guided tour with a difference, try hiring a chauffeur-driven Citroen to discover an insider’s take on the City of Light. These cute open-topped 2CV cars are just the thing for some backseat snuggling as your stripe-shirted driver whisks you around the sights of Paris, going as mainstream or as off-beat as you like. You might find yourself checking off all the places that inspired the great Impressionist painters, discovering Medieval Paris in the Marais Quarter, or simply rocking up to the Eiffel Tower in style. Amp up the romance even more with a drive at dusk, as the twinkling street lights flicker into life, and get ready to feel like a pair of continental movie stars on your own private ride. pink flamengo Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Pink Flamingo Fancy a picnic on the banks of the Canal SaintMartin but don’t want the hassle of assembling all those baguettes and cheeses? Fear not: Pink Flamingo pizzeria can bring lunch or dinner straight to you by way of their ingenious balloon delivery system. Place your order at their restaurant in the 3rd arrondissement and you’ll be given a bright pink helium balloon to take to your perfect picnicking spot. Simply recline in the shade of the trees by the water’s edge and wait for your delicious hot pizza to appear; with creative menu options like the Bjork (smoked salmon), the Gandhi (paneer and baba ganoush) and the Aphrodite (houmous and grilled aubergine), this is no ordinary ham-and-mushroom fare, either. Address 67 Rue Bichat, 75010 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday CLOSED 7:00 – 11:00pm 7:00 – 11:00pm 7:00 – 11:00pm 7:00 – 11:00pm Saturday Sunday 12:30am – 2:30pm 7:00 – 11:00pm 12:30am – 2:30pm 7:00 – 11:00pm oysters at l Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Oysters at L’Ecailler Fit for Casanova himself, there aren’t many foods more sumptuous to savour with a loved one than oysters –and one of the best places to do just that is L’Ecailler du Bistrot. The setting is old maritime, decorated with seashells and model ships, while the seafood platters come out like works of art, featuring lobster, fish dishes from turbot to sole and unusual delicacies like sea urchin, as well as the well-regarded oysters. Also worth a special mention are the crispy pomme frites and of course everything is served with a friendly La Rue Paul Bert welcome. One of Paris’ gastronomy hotbeds, this street is lined with other homely but accomplished bistros to try the next day! Address 22 rue Paul Bert, 75011, Paris Opening Hours Monday Friday CLOSED 19:30 – 23:00pm 19:30 – 23:00pm 19:30 – 23:00pm 19:30 – 23:00pm Saturday Sunday 19:30 – 23:00pm CLOSED le baron rouge Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Le Baron Rouge Cosy wine spot Le Baron Rouge is more of a bar than a restaurant, but if you like the idea of nibbling on a plate of local cheeses and charcuterie with a fine Sancerre or Cabernet, this is the place for you. Beat the afterwork crowd by coming early and stake your (seductively-lit) corner with a glass or two, or learn from the locals and bring your own empty bottle to fill up from the onsite barrels. An oyster-seller even does his rounds here on winter weekends, all adding to the rustic Parisian ambience. When it’s time to slip off into the night, you can take your bottle of wine to go. Address 1 Rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday Opens 10:00am - 2:00pm Daily for lunch 5:00 – 10:00pm 5:00 – 10:00pm 5:00 – 10:00pm 5:00 – 10:00pm 5:00 – 10:00pm Saturday Sunday 10:00am – 10:00pm 10:am - 4:00pm les ombres Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Couples Les Ombres This ultra-sophisticated restaurant has it all – first-rate food, unrivalled views of the Eiffel Tower and plush, comfortable surrounds sure to woo your date. You’ll find the glass-roofed Les Ombres taking penthouse position on top of international culture museum the Musee Quai Branly, where you can enjoy afternoon tea on the open-air terrace. Overseen by skilled chef Frederic Claudel, save your pennies for the museum and try the fixed price, show-stopping lunch menu, or eat your fill of carpaccio and raviole as the sun sinks and the neighbouring Tower lights up against the sky. If you’re looking for something special for your last night in the city, the search stops here. Address 27 Quai Branly, 75007 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday Opens 12:00pm - 2:15pm Daily for lunch 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm Saturday Sunday 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm national history Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Museum of Natural History All ages share a fascination for natural history and one of France’s finest historic museums brings it by the bucket-load. The Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris lets you travel back several millenia, with a host of dinosaur skeletons and replicas waiting to greet you in the Paleontology building. Slightly cuddlier, kids will love the herds of stuffed elephants, giraffes and zebras storming as one across the floor in the Gallery of Evolution. There are four levels of animal displays — highlights include the giant whale hanging over head. Hit the Children’s Gallery to see a special treasure hunt exhibition for six to twelve year olds. Parents are welcome too (sorry, kids!). Address 16 Rue Buffon, 75005 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday Opens 12:00pm - 2:15pm Daily for lunch 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm Saturday Sunday 7:00 – 10:30pm 7:00 – 10:30pm museum of Magic Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Museum of Magic As if attempting a disappearing act of its own, the Museum of Magic sits nestled away in a spooky vaulted cellar in the Marais district. Enthralling would-be Harry Potters with gadgets from the golden age of magical mirrors and sawing ladies in half, you can see complex illusion apparatus and receive a magic demonstration during your tour. There’s also a magic store for anyone impatient to start learning trickery on the journey home. Buy a combined ticket and you can visit nextdoor’s Automata museum - these eerie moving mechanical figures from years gone by will fascinate even today’s tech-savvy little ones. Address 11 Rue Saint-Paul, 75004 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday 10:30 – 7:00pm 10:30 – 7:00pm 10:30 – 7:00pm 10:30 – 7:00pm 10:30 – 7:00pm Saturday Sunday 2:00pm – 10:30pm 2:00pm – 10:30pm louvre treasure hunt Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Louvre Treasure Hunt Opening Hours A trip to the Louvre is not usually top of the kids’ must-see Paris list. But worry not, artloving parents, there’s the THATLou scavenger hunt, to take the pressure off. Instead of dragging their heels on a guided tour, form teams and follow clues to priceless works of art, taking your photo in front of them and tallying up the scores to find out who the winner is! Love, food, animals and kings are just some of the topics on this competitive cultural experience. Bear in mind that the standard Louvre museum entry fee does not include the treasure hunt, but you may find that keeping the kids content for a morning is as priceless as the Mona Lisa herself. From mid-June to early September Address 1 Rue de la legion d’honneur 75007 France 9 a.m. to 6:00 pm (Tuesday, Wednesday, FridaySunday ) Open Thursday 10 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Closed Monday The rest of the year 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Tuesday, Wednesday, FridaySunday) Open Thursday 10 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Closed Monday. science museum Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Le Cité des Sciences et de l’ Industrie A quirky, semi-futuristic science centre, Le Cité des Sciences et de l’ Industrie is the place to rediscover your inner geek. Bring the family and you can learn more than just a thing or two about science: among the permanent exhibitions are displays on transportation, genetics, light, sound and energy. Don’t miss L’Argonaute - a 1950s submarine which you can scramble around and learn about underwater exploration. You can’t fail to spot the giant chrome sphere outside of the centre, the Géode, but stick around for a running programme of films on oceanography, arctic life and prehistoric sea creatures - some are even shown in full 3D. With even your littlest ones taken care of in the Cité des Enfants adventure playground, it’s an effortlessly fun day out for all. Address 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris, France Opening Hours Monday Friday 10:00 – 6:00pm 10:00 – 6:00pm 10:00 – 6:00pm 10:00 – 6:00pm 10:00 – 6:00pm Saturday Sunday 10:00 – 6:00pm 10:00 – 7:00pm Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Les 400 Coups Opening Hours Open Monday to Sunday, Les 400 Coups is a parent’s dream. This chirpy restaurant caters well for children, with a game room upstairs, but serves a menu you’ll be happy to let them choose from - carefully selected organic produce all cooked in line with the season. Savour zucchini and stuffed peppers, or tuck into some tasty brandade (salt cod) and wash the gastronomic goodness down with the juice of the day. With the exception of the weekend rushes, this is a tranquil restaurant where you can enjoy an easy-going meal near to the Buttes-Chaumont Park. Look out for special midday deals on Thursdays and Fridays. Monday Friday 12:00 – 3:00pm 12:00 – 3:00pm 10:30 – 6:00pm 12:00 – 3:00pm 12:00 – 3:00pm Saturday Sunday 10:30 – 6:00pm 10:30 – 6:00pm Address 12 Bis Rue de la Villette, 75019 Paris, France Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Hard Rock Cafe Opening Hours The Hard Rock Café Paris is about more than just slap-up meals and stellar service. With genuine images from rock ‘n’ roll greats across the walls and videos and memorabilia from more recent pop icons, every generation is catered for. The powerful sound system lends to the atmosphere while the restaurant and cocktail bar go out of their way to create the all-American experience. Monday Friday 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm Saturday Sunday 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm The Parisian branch sits centrally between the Opera and Grand Boulevards and close to multiple big-name attractions, so once you’ve eaten your fill, you can always call on Madonna and Jimi Hendrix at the Musée Grévin waxwork museum and marvel at some pop royalty (almost) in the flesh. Address 14 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families La Pavillon des Oiseaux Opening Hours If you’re looking to enjoy traditional French cuisine a la tranquille, then make a stop at Le Pavillon des Oiseaux. Chocolate fondant, confit of duck, gizzards salad and homemade quiche Lorraine are all on the menu of this marvellous restaurant–tearoom which has a 200m² terrace and a generously-sized veranda. Sitting pretty in the Jardin d’ Acclimatation and close to the Jardin de Séoul, this is the place to come for a lazy weekend brunch alongside first-rate views of the local flora and fauna, with regular magic shows, face-painting and balloon artists for the kids. The Pavillion venue is also available for party hire, great for any family birthdays while you’re away. Monday Friday 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm Saturday Sunday 11:30 – 11:45pm 11:30 – 11:45pm Address Jardin d’Acclimatation, 75116 Paris, France creperie Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Families Crêperie Josselin Opening Hours When people form long queues for crêpes — and in Paris, they do! — you know they’re going to be good. This bustling crêperie may share its vicinity with other pancake houses but is the one to beat in the Montparnasse area. You can have a full two-course pancake lunch here, starting with savoury ‘galette’ (pancakes) sandwiching layers of savoury fillings like ham and cheese or chestnut puree before moving onto pudding. Those with a sweet tooth should take note of exquisite options from caramel beurre salé (salted caramel) to calvados (apple brandy) to piles of chocolate, banana, ice cream and whipped cream, all in one dish. Speciality ciders make the whole experience even sweeter for Mum and Dad. Monday Friday 12:00 – 11:00pm 12:00 – 11:00pm 12:00 – 11:00pm 12:00 – 11:00pm 12:00 – 11:00pm Saturday Sunday 12:00 – 11:00pm 12:00 – 11:00pm Address 67 Rue du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris, France Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path O Chateau Opening Hours O Chateau is an absolute must on the (ice) bucket list of any wine connoisseur, having achieved the recognition of various benchmark sources. As well as being an elegant bar for those passionate about wine, this awardwinning establishment runs daily wine tasting classes, leaving visitors truly educated about the grape. You can also go on day trips to the Champagne region, for the chance to see where wine is stored and aged - naturally, you can also enjoy a drop of good fizz while you’re there. For the ultimate in sophisticated vino tours, take a cruise down the Seine, sipping three different Champagnes while you watch Paris roll by. Monday Friday 4:00pm – 12:00am 4:00pm – 12:00am 4:00pm – 12:00am 4:00pm – 12:00am 4:00pm – 12:00am Saturday Sunday 4:00pm – 12:00am CLOSED Address 68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris, France marche raspail Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Marche Raspail Bd As soon as you draw close to this wellfrequented outdoor organic market, you’ll encounter a host of gorgeous aromas. French herbs and spices will greet you while the sweet, sugary aroma of crepes and scent of flowers linger in the air. It’s easy to spend your money at one delicious stall but with bakers, craft-makers and farmers selling all kinds of local and global produce, it’s worth paying them all a visit. Open every Sunday, the market is also something of an education in lesser-known foods, not to mention a chance to polish up your French as friendly stall owners chat readily about their produce with market browsers. The perfect stop before a picnic in nearby Le Jardin du Luxembourg.” Street Art Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Street Art Tour The art of Paris is by no means confined to the gallery walls: take the Underground Paris street art tour from Rue Oberkampf and encounter some of the finest urban imagery to grace the city neighbourhoods. Gain an insight into the culture of these wizards with aerosols and get a chance to meet the artists themselves. Artists like Banksy and the city’s own iconic street artist, Space Invader, may have helped the worldwide movement to gather momentum, but the tour is also a chance to view the work of upcoming artists, as well as a designated street art gallery. Accompanied by savvy tour guides who know just as much about art history as contemporary works, this is your chance to explore a world often hidden from view. Palais Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Palais Royal Opening Hours The Palais Royal is a curious mix of former royal residence, gardens and high-end stores. Secluded and romantic, the lawns and flowerbeds are ripe for a spot of morning reflection or even a midday feast, overlooked by huge, ornate facades that were originally built for the real-life Cardinal Richelieu in the 17th century. Monday Friday 7:30am – 8:00pm 7:30am – 8:00pm 7:30am – 8:00pm 7:30am – 8:00pm 7:30am – 8:00pm Saturday Sunday 7:30am – 8:00pm 7:30am – 8:00pm Next stop: the shopping arcades, where you’ll peer in wonder at wonderfully eclectic window displays and the dazzling amber jewellery of the appropriately named La Maison de L’Ambre. Then there are the music boxes in Anna Joliet’s boutique with their cute and chirpy melodies and the flagship boutique of the French glove manufacturer, Fabre. Whether you linger for some window shopping or just stroll through, it’s a corner of the city worth seeking out. Address 8 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France dans le noir Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Dans Le Noir Opening Hours Dinner at Dans Le Noir isn’t just dinner: it’s a sensory and social experience, as out go the lights and into absolute darkness you head. Heightening the senses and bringing people together, you navigate your way round by touch, guided by visually-impaired waiting staff who will also take down your order. It’s waiting with a difference though — they make a note of the things you don’t like and return with dishes that surprise you, making each bite an adventure, a chance to introduce the palate to new tastes and textures. Since you don’t know what you’ll be eating, you can ask one of the restaurant’s experts to recommend a suitable drink to go with your meal. Enjoy this opportunity to broaden your horizons and walk on the culinary wild side. Monday Friday 11:00am – 12:00am 11:00am – 12:00am 11:00am – 12:00am 11:00am – 12:00am 11:00am – 12:00am Saturday Sunday 11:00am – 12:00am 11:00am – 12:00am Address 51 Rue Quincampoix, 75004 Paris, France le mono Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Le Mono Opening Hours This restaurant in the artsy Parisian district of Montmartre is great for those up for a gastronomic challenge while in the French capital. Celebrating Paris’s long cross-cultural tradition with Africa, this small, good-value family eatery serves delicious and intriguing food from the West African nation of Togo, often with a side order of live African music, adding to the fun, upbeat atmosphere. Monday Friday 7:30 pm– 1:00am 7:30 pm– 1:00am CLOSED 7:30 pm– 1:00am 7:30 pm– 1:00am Saturday Sunday 7:30 pm– 1:00am 7:30 pm– 1:00am Togolese dishes to try include fish in spicy moyo sauce, steamed cakes of white beans and prawns (lélé) and grilled chicken with semolina noodles (djenkoumé). Affable English-speaking staff will guide you through unfamiliar menu items, and if you’re feeling brave enough, make time for the famously potent house punch! Address 40 Rue Véron, 75018 Paris, France au chat noir Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Au Chat Noir Be part of the cultural in-crowd at this openminded bar in Parmentier. Unaware, outsiders might be drawn to the trendy watering holes that surround it, while the literary crowd and anyone in the know will make a beeline for Au Chat Noir, for its thriving spoken-word and open-mic events. Drop by on Monday evenings from 8.30 pm to catch up-andcoming performance poets, writers and even future rap stars addressing captive audiences. It’s also worth checking out their eclectic programme of gigs showcasing global music, short film screenings and workshops. Creative freedom, the chance to rub shoulders with everyone from local students to international folk artists and a decent Americano are all on offer here. Address 76 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris, France supper Index SURVIVAL GUIDE Tourist attractions Off the beaten path Supper Club Opening Hours For the chance to meet cool young Parisians, worldly globetrotters and professionals from a variety of walks of life, why not try a supper club? Running for the last 30 years, Jim Haynes’s Sunday Dinners is one of the most popular in Paris. Each week, a specially-chosen chef will cook dinner at Jim Haynes’s converted studio in the 14th arrondissement. You just have to book online (the suggested donation is €30) and then turn up to join the 50 to 60 other lucky guests. Sundays They’re a friendly bunch: Mr Haynes himself makes sure the introductions run smoothly by memorising everyone’s name and soon after, you’re all chatting to each other like old friends. Make a reservation in the summer and see the party spill out into the garden, allowing you to chat, drink and admire the Parisian sunset. Address 83, rue de la Tombe Issoire 75014 Paris France 8:00pm – 11:00pm