Paris hotels, apartments and B&B accommodation near metro stations
 
    About Paris, FranceIn its earliest hours, a small maritime village of Celtic fisherman and traders, known as the Parisii, lived in Lutetia along the Seine River around 4200BC. Fast-forward hundreds of years through the building of the reign of King Clovis and the beloved patron saint of the city Genevieve (500AD), the building of the Louvre, Les Halles and University (1200), the Hundred Years War (1473), the reign of King Louis XIV and building of Versailles (1682), the French Revolution, storming of the Bastille and overthrow of the monarchy that included Maria Antoinette (1789) on through the Industrial Revolution, Second Empire and Belle Epoque period (early 1800s), the chance to host the Universal Expo and the erecting of the Eiffel Tower (1889), both World Wars (1914 and 1940s respectively) up to an emphasis on culture and Parisian spirit (1990s) and you have got modern day Paris. Though Paris has had its fair share of extremely dark times, the silver lining has been the world's fascination with the people, foods, architecture and culture of this spectacular city. It attracts over 30 million tourists per year, has 2 million of its own people, is home to dozens of iconic landmarks, and has been dubbed the "City of Light" due to its focus on culture, education and ideas. Lucky for us Paris isn't going anywhere, anytime soon. Where to StayMost Parisian's pack up and head out for a lengthy vacation in August, when the city is at its hottest. That doesn't stop the tourists from coming. Before you choose your accommodations you should consider your budget and your visiting goals.
AttractionsParis is home to many world renowned attractions. Although there are many to choose from, there are an elite few "must sees" for any traveler. Eiffel Tower, Champs de Mars, 75007 Paris. The Eiffel Tower is Paris' unofficial logo. There are souvenir shops, dining with a view, viewing tours and info on how this magnificent structure was erected and why. Metro stations: Bik Hakeim, Trocadero Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris. Along another famous landmark, the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe was Napoleon's thank you to his soldiers for all of their hard work. There is also a small military museum inside the Arc. Metro stations: Charles de Gaulle, Etoile Cathedrale Notre Dame de Paris, Rue du Cloitre Notre Dame, 75004 Paris. Since the first stone was set in 1163, this Cathedral has stood by the city through thick and thin. It is also the inspiration for Victor Hugo's beloved novel, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". Metro station: Cite Louvre Museum, Musee du Louvre, 75058 Paris. The Louvre contains some of the most prized art in history including Leonardi DaVinci's Mona Lisa. There are nearly 35,000 works of art here and it is said it takes days to fully view the Louvre in its entirety. Metro stations: Palais Royal - Musee de Louvre Sacre Coeur, 35 rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris. Built atop Montmartre, Sacre Coeur features sweeping views of the entire city. It has been visited by famous saints including Joan of Arc. Metro: Abbesses, Anvers Musee d'Orsay, 62 rue de Lille, 75343 Paris. The museum itself is a work of art, having been the Gare d'Orsay train station in a previous life. It holds works by favored artists like Degas, Van Gogh and Monet from 1848 - 1914. Metro: Solferino, Musee d'Orsay Place de la Concorde, 8th Arrondissement. Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris and probably the most interesting. It is the place where Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI came to a headless end. It is also the starting point of the Champs Elysees, holds a handful of other attractions and hosts many lively events. Metro: Concorde Champs Elysees, 8th Arrondissement. Champs Elysees is possibly one of the most famous promenades in the world. Its stretch spans from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. The impressive strip is used for nearly every major celebration in the city including many impromptu public gatherings, like the World Cup victory merriment. Since its inception in the 17th century, it has always been a fashionable place and today it is the most prestigious avenue in the world, only second to New York City’s Fifth Avenue. Metro: Champs Elysees-Clemenceau, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George V, Charles de Gaulle Hotel de Ville, 4th Arrondissemen. The Hotel de Ville is an exceptionally large and extremely ornate structure. It’s façade is occupied by more than 100 statues, each of which stands for a famous Parisian or French city. The interior is done in a pompous Third Empire style with large staircases, the Salle des Fetes or grand ballroom and topped off with painted ceilings and walls and giant chandeliers. The square where the hotel sits was the gruesome sight of many executions for centuries and was where Paris’ 18th century guillotine was installed. Today it is the office of the May of Paris as well as a lovely park and pedestrian zone. Metro: Hotel de Ville ShoppingParisian's are known around the world for their chic sense of style. It is quite possible there is no better shopping in the world than in Paris. Haute Couture/Designer, 1st , 2nd, 6th and 8th Arrondissement 19th century Paris was the birthplace of couture. The majority of the few remaining couture houses call the city their home.
Department Stores Paris is known for its massive department stores. It is the ultimate l'americaine experience in Paris. Printemps, 64 boulevard Haussman, 75009 Paris. Their website puts it best, "three buildings, comprising one department store, dedicated to French chic and fashion." There is also a multilingual team so you can find everything your heart desires. Metro: Havre Caumartin Galeries Lafayette, 40 Boulevard Haussman, 75009 Paris. Printemps and the Galeries are rivals that live side by side. Like Printemps, the Galeries and carry an extensive selection of designer, brand and private label merchandise. There is certainly something for every budget in both of these huge stores. Metro: Chaussee d'Antin, Opera, Trinite Le Bon Marche, 24 Rue de Sevres, 75007 Paris. The only department store on the Left Bank is a favorite for casual shoppers. It offers everything a typical department store does, plus it has an adjoining food halls and a roof top garden for an easy day of shopping, eating and strolling. Metro: Sevres Babylone Flea Markets Many designer stores located here are unreasonable to the common traveler. That is why Paris' flea markets are such a popular choice for shoppers. They pack everything from garments to books to furniture and best of all, they are affordable. When it comes to these flea markets, the early bird gets the worm. Most open around 6:00am so get there as soon as possible because once the crowds swarm in you might certainly miss out on a great deal. Saint Ouen Flea Market, 48 rue Jules Valles, 93400 Saint-Ouen. Located just outside of the 18th arrondissement, this is the biggest flea market in the entire world. Nearly 200,000 visit in one weekend alone. Along with having everything a shopper could dream of purchasing, there is a festive atmosphere with food and drink stalls. Metro: Porte de Clignancourt, Porte de St Ouen Porte de Vanves, avenue Georges Lafenestre and avenue Marc Sangnier, 75014 Paris. Vanves is open every weekend year round. 350 stalls hold furniture, jewelry, paintings, fabric, glassware, watches, photography, music and more. Metro: Porte de Vanves Puces de Montreuils, avenue de la Porte de Montreuil, 75020 Paris. This flea market holds second hand items from clothing to car parts and back again. It is a great place to find collectibles rather than precious antiques. Metro: Porte de Montreuil NightlifeParisian's play twice as hard as they work which can be seen in the extensive network of bars, pubs and cafes throughout the city. Some stay open until the wee hours when the metro re-opens at 5:00am while others shut down at 10:00pm. Batofar, 11 Quai Francois Mauriac, 75013 Paris. Batofar is a popular club destination. Its unique location provides a one of a kind atmosphere - it is aboard a boat docked on the Seine. There is also a restaurant on the top deck. Metro: Quai de la Gare, Bibliotheque F. Mitterrand Buddha Bar, 8 rue Boissy d'Anglais M Concorde, 75008 Paris. This bar is lovingly watched over by a giant Buddha and Chinese dragon. It is a very relaxed place has a bar and restaurant. Metro: Concorde Fu Bar, 5 rue St Sulpice, 75006 Paris. Fu Bar considers the Martini their speciality. The atmosphere is warm and friendly here. Metro: St Sulpice Kong, 1 rue du Pont Nuef, 75001 Paris. Above the Kenzo store, Kong is a hot spot. It appeared on ‘Sex and the City,' and its ultra modern interior is favored by many celebrities that stop in Paris. Metro: Pont Nuef Le Rubis, 10 rue Marche St Honore, 75001 Paris. Le Rubis is a wine bar known for its extensive wine menu and pastoral nature. It is popular with the locals as a place to kick back and relax. Metro: Tuileries Le Sancerre, 35 rue de Abbesses, 75018. Le Sancerre is a typical French wine bar that fills to the brim on its live music nights. Metro: Alma Marceau Mathi's Bar, 3 rue de Ponthieu, 75008 Paris. If fashion had a bar, this would be it. The "it" crowed is often seen at this esteemed club and dressing to the nines is a must to get in. Metro: Champs Elysees-Clemenceau Theatre / entertainmentLike many other things it is known for, Paris is notorious for its legendary entertainment and party atmosphere. Many of its cabaret bars are house hold names, like the Moulin Rouge. Moulin Rouge, 82 boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris. This cabaret was the inspiration behind the famous movies with the same name. Its iconic windmill on the roof makes it hard to miss. Moulin Rouge's acts consist of 1,000 costumes and 100 performers. Metro: Blanche Lido, 116 avenue des Champs Elysees, 75008 Paris. Lido is very similar to the lively Moulin Rouge but with slightly lower prices. Metro: Chales de Gaulles-Etoile, George V Crazy Horse, 12 avenue George V, 75008 Paris. Crazy Horse relies on its distinct "art of the nude" showcases. Metro: Alma Marceau, George V Theatre National de Chaillot, 1 Place du Trocadero, 75016. The theatre's main focus is dance and drama. Many productions are in English. Metro: Trocadero Comedie Francaise, 2 rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris. Metro: Palais Royal-Musee du Louvre Festival d'Autumn This annual festival focuses on forward thinking in every genre of art available. Programs and exhibits are located in venues throughout Paris. Metro varies to venue. Rock en Seine, Saint Cloud Park. This anticipated music festival rolls out the red carpet for the biggest names in rock and contemporary music today. Metro: Boulogne-Pont de Saint Cloud La Nuit Blanche (White Night), Paris. This annual event turns Paris upside down and is a favorite of night owls. The entire city stays awake for a full 24 hours and has all night cinemas, bars, restaurants and shopping. Palais Garnier, 8 rue Scribe, Place de l'Opera, 75009 Paris. This was the very opera house that inspired the beloved tale called Phantom of the Opera. Today it hosts ballets, opera and symphony performances. The building itself is also an architectural gem. Metro: Opera Theatre de la Ville, 2 place du Chatelet, 75004 Paris. Formerly called Theatre Sarah Bernhardt, this theatre got a new name along with its recent facelift. It is the place to go to see modern dance and visitors can often catch new groups at a lesser price. Metro: Chatelet RestaurantsParis is known for its gastronomy and love of fine wine. If you came here to eat, you will not be disappointed. Au Pied de Cochen, 6 rue Coquilliere, 75001 Paris. This bistro serves just what the name states, pigs' feet in béarnaise sauce - sounds prettier in French doesn't it? There is a larger a-la-carte menu for those who would rather leave feet to walking only. Metro: Chatlet - Les Halles Café de Flore, 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris. This is the café where all of Paris' cool kids hang out. It features light snacks, drinks and plenty of people watching. Metro: St. Germain des Pres La Madonnina, 10 rue Marie et Louise, 75010 Paris. La Madonnina is an old world Italian restaurant with a petite menu that is big on taste. Metro: Louvre-Rivoli L'As du Fallafel, 34 rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris. Fallafel features a sans sandwich menu that is perfect for a person on the go. Metro: St. Paul L' ebouillante, 6 rue due Barres, 75004 Paris. If you have a love for all things pastry, this is your place. Delectable homemade cakes, pastries, crepes accompanied by hot chocolate are L' ebouillante's specialty. Metro: Odeon Piccolo Teatro, 6 rue de Ecouffes, 75004 Paris. This vegan restaurant even goes so far as serving organic wine. Metro: St. Paul Maison Blanche, 15 Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris. Maison Blanche is best summed up as fine dining with a view, as it is nestled atop the Theatre des Champs Elysees. Metro: Maison Blanche Le Vieux Bistro, 14 rue du Cloitre Notre Dame, 75004 Paris. Le Vieux is a classic French bistro with dishes so yummy that even locals can't stay away from this tourist infested spot. Metro: Cite Guy Savoy, 18 rue Troyon, 75017 Paris. Guy Savoy is one of the most favored French gourmet restaurants in Paris. The chefs seemingly delight over the enjoyment that their preparations evoke among guests. Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile Pierre Herme, 72 rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris. The king of desserts; Pierre Herme boutique is a great place to stop and grab a treat before you head out for the evening. And when you're missing his macaroons long after you've left Paris, you can always order them online. Metro: Saint Paul For childrenDisneyland Paris is any child's dream. They can meet their favorite characters live, go on thrill rides and partake in lively events. Please note Disneyland is 40 minutes outside of Paris by train. Metro: RER train to Marne a la Valee/Chessy Paris Plage. Each August, the city of Paris turns the banks of the Seine into a sandy retreat that delights children and adults alike. Cite des Sciences, 30 avenue CorentinCariou, 75930 Paris. The Science center is a fun, interactive way to keep children entertained while they learn. There is also a separate play area for children ages 3 - 12. Jardin d'Acclimatation, Bois de Boulogne, 75116 Paris. This lovely garden is perfect for a family day. It features a small train ride from the Metro to the gardens. Within there is a zoo, fairground with rides and puppet theaters among other attractions. Paris Story, 11 bis rue Scribe. This multimedia show introduces children to nearly 2,000 years of Parisian history. The 50 minute show comes complete with headsets in 14 languages. There is also the Paris Miniature to look at afterwards; a huge model of the city with interactive buttons that light up. Metro: Opera or Grands Boulevards Getting ThereBy Air: Paris is serviced by two airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly Airport. 1. Charles de Gaulle is approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of Paris. You can get to Paris' center by:
Fun Fact: CDG is one of the most bustling airports in the world. It has appeared in several films and is known as Paris Roissy to the locals. 2. Orly Airport is approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of Paris. You can get to Paris' center by:
By Train: Paris is connected to 6 major stations, which all link to the Metro that has access to the entire city. 1. Gare d'Austerlitz: Located in the 13th Arrondissement and links to Metro lines 5, 10 and RER C. 2. Gare de l'Est: Located in the 10th Arrondissement and links to Metro lines 4, 5, 7 and RER C. 3. Gare du Nord: Located in the 10th Arrondissement and links to Metro 4, 5 and RER B, D, E. Also the Eurostar train terminal. 4. Gare de Lyon: Located in the 12th Arrondissement and links to Metro lines 1, 14 and RER A, D. 5. Gare Montpartnasse: Located in the 15th Arrondissement and links to Metro lines 4, 6, 12, 13. 6. Gare Saint-Lazare: Located in the 8th Arrondissement and links to Metro lines 3, 12, 13 and RER A, E. By Coach: Paris' largest station is titled Paris-Gallieni International Coach Station and is located in the 20th arrondissement. It is 20 minutes to the centre of the city using Metro line 3. Getting AroundOn Foot: This is ideal for those who want to see the main attractions, since most are generally located in the center of the city. You might also be surprised to see how quickly you can walk to nearby locations versus waiting for the Metro. Walking is a great way to see Paris up close and personal. By Metro: Fear not travelers! Paris' Metro Line is known for being one of the most user-friendly out there. It runs daily from 5:30 am - 12:30pm and all stations provide free metro map guides. When using a map, put a finger on the station that is nearest to your destination. Trace another finger from where you are to the destination station. Remember the direction, terminus station and line number. Once in the station follow signs for the direction you are traveling. The train you want will contain your memorized terminus station and line number. Helpful Hint: Always save your train tickets. They are handy in getting through turnstiles and onto the train of course but often times they can be put to use more than once. By Bus: Buses are a very useful way to avoid throngs of people when traveling a short distance. The bus system is as simple as showing the driver your valid pass and then signaling them to stop. Be forewarned they won't stop unless asked! Helpful Hint: After the Metro and RER shutdown for the evening, Noctilien buses are the only way for night owls to cruise town. The service runs from 12:30pm - 5:30am. If you are clueless as to whereabouts, bus tours are another alternative to see the sites.
By Taxi: Paris' official taxis are Taxi Parisien. Hailing a cab is simple. Available cabs will flip on a lit located on their roof. You can hail them from the street or wait at one of the ranks located throughout the city. This is a reliable and reasonably priced way to approach city travel, yet it should be noted that the meter will start immediately. You should also be aware that extra charges may be added for the following reasons:
The Zones: All of Paris' transportation systems revolve around a zone system. 1 - 2: All areas within immediate city limits. 3 - 5: City suburbs. 6 - 8: Outer suburbs. Helpful Hint: Nearly all Metro lines are in Zones 1 - 2. A ticket in these zones should cover nearly all of your travel needs. Tickets: All tickets purchased are available for use in the following: Metro, RER and buses (Noctilien and airport transfers not included). Tickets can be purchased from counters, machines located in Metro/RER stations or at some news stands with the RATP (Paris' official transport system) indicator. This is why tickets should always be kept through your entire stay. Here is an approximate cost table for RATP services:
Helpful Hint: Whenever you purchase a travel ticket make sure you write your name, coupon number and expiration date right on the ticket. |
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