In Paris: discover the city Archives - VisitingParis By Yourself

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Simone de Beauvoir: Feminist Icon, Philosopher & Controversial Legacy

Simone de Beauvoir: Feminist Icon, Philosopher A Parisian Legend Who Redefined Womanhood Simone de Beauvoir wasn’t just a philosopher—she was a revolution. Born in Paris in 1908, she became one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, challenging societal norms, redefining feminism, and leaving an indelible mark on the City of Light. Her masterpiece, The Second Sex (1949), remains a cornerstone of feminist theory, and her life in

Capricorn and Aquarius Traits: How Their Behavior Shapes Relationships & Life

Capricorn vs Aquarius in Paris Why Paris Loves These Two Zodiac Signs (And How They Navigate the City) Paris is a city of contrasts—where centuries-old cobblestone streets meet cutting-edge fashion, where romantic candlelit dinners coexist with fiery political debates in café corners. It’s no surprise, then, that two of the most intriguing zodiac signs—Capricorn and Aquarius—thrive here. Both signs bring a unique energy to the City of Light, shaping their

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Opera Garnier Inauguration: Was Charles Garnier Even Invited?

Opera Garnier Inauguration in 1875 without Charles Garnier? A Scandalous Snub at the Heart of Parisian High Society Opera Garnier Inauguration took place on January 5, 1875. Since then, it has become one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks—a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, a symbol of Napoleon III’s grand vision, and a stage for some of the most dramatic moments in French cultural history. But behind its gilded façades and marble

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In Paris: discover the city

Paris Christmas Lights 2025: Best Streets & Hidden Gems to Visit

Paris Christmas Lights are pure magic. The City of Light lives up to its name as twinkling illuminations transform streets, monuments, and hidden corners into a dazzling winter wonderland. If you’re planning a trip in December 2025, you’re in for a treat—the holiday lights in Paris are more spectacular than ever, with new installations, returning favorites, and secret spots that even locals adore. In this guide, we’ll take you through

In Paris: discover the city

Edith Piaf’s Montmartre: Childhood, Love & Iconic Songs in Paris

Edith Piaf’s Montmartre: a not-so-distant past A Walk Through the Legendary Singer’s Parisian Haunts Edith Piaf voice carries a unique raw emotion and timeless power. Her real name was Édith Gassion. As La Môme Piaf, she rose from the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to become France’s beloved chanteuse, her melodies echoing from Parisian cafés to concert halls. Before worldwide fame, Piaf’s life was rooted in the artistic heart of Paris—Montmartre.

Sagittarius and Capricorn: How Their Traits Shape Love, Life & Friendships

Sagittarius vs Capricorn in Paris Two Zodiac Signs, Two Worlds—How Fire and Earth Collide in the City of Light Sagittarius and Capricorn in today’s Paris – city of contrasts where historic cobblestone streets meet cutting-edge fashion, where romantic candlelit dinners share space with fast-paced business deals, and where dreamers and doers coexist in perfect harmony. It’s no surprise, then, that two of the most contrasting zodiac signs—Sagittarius and Capricorn—find themselves

Eating and going out

Best Christmas & New Year’s Gifts in Paris: Kids, Adults & Grandparents

Best Christmas & New Year’s Gifts for the whole family Why Paris is the Ultimate Gift-Giving Destination This Holiday Season Best Christmas & New Year’s Gifts you can find in Paris, the city where shopping is magical, especially during Christmas and New Year. Streets glow with festive lights, Christmas markets brim with artisanal treasures, and iconic stores unveil exclusive gift collections. Whether you’re searching for a keepsake for children, a

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Cultural places

Marie-Antoinette’s Legacy: Scandal, Myth & France’s Divided Memory

Marie-Antoinette’s Legacy: A Queen Who Refuses to Fade Away A Queen Who Still Divides Paris—270 Years After Her Birth In 2024, Paris is buzzing not only from the excitement of the Olympics, but also with renewed debate over one of its most controversial figures. This year marks the 270th anniversary of Marie-Antoinette’s birth (November 2, 1755), and the city is alive with exhibits, walking tours, and passionate conversations about her

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Toussaint in France: Honoring the Dead with Flowers & Tradition

Toussaint in France, a day to remember our dead What Is Toussaint in France and Why Is It So Important ? Every year on November 1st, France observes Toussaint (All Saint’s day), a deeply meaningful holiday dedicated to honoring the dead. Unlike Halloween—its costume-driven, commercial counterpart—Toussaint is a day of quiet reflection, family gatherings, and traditions focused around cemeteries, flowers, and remembrance. This is not only a significant date for

In Paris: discover the city

Marie-Antoinette’s dramatic end: Trial, Accusations, and Tragic Execution

Marie-Antoinette’s dramatic end: a queen lost in the turmoil of the Revolution Marie-Antoinette’s dramatic end, the last queen of France before the French Revolution, is an inglorious chapter that remains engraved in French history. Marie-Antoinette is one of history’s most controversial figures. Her life, filled with both grandeur and hardship, ended in a trial and execution 232 years ago on October 16, 1793, 9 months after her husband Louis XVI.

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Booking

Impressionist Painters: Masters, Museums & Must-See Artworks in Paris

Impressionist Painters: the birth place of Impressionisme, Masters, Paris Museum to visit Impressionist Painters in Paris. It is the birthplace of Impressionism, a revolutionary art movement that forever changed the way we see art and the world. If you’re an art lover visiting the city, exploring the works of Impressionist painters is essential. From Monet’s shimmering water lilies to Renoir’s lively Parisian scenes, Paris offers a unique and immersive experience

In Paris: discover the city

Gustave Eiffel: Life, Bridges & Iconic Constructions Worldwide

Gustave Eiffel is a name synonymous with engineering brilliance and architectural innovation. While most people associate him with the Eiffel Tower, his contributions to the world of construction and design extend far beyond this iconic Parisian landmark. From bridges to statues, Eiffel’s work has left an indelible mark on the global landscape. This article explores his life, his most famous creations, and his enduring legacy. The Early Life of Gustave

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In Paris: discover the city

Versailles in Summer 2025: Nights and days of Music, Fountains & Magic

Versailles summer 2025 promises to be extraordinary. The Palace of Versailles, already a jewel of French heritage, will transform into a stage of enchantment with its famous Musical Fountains Shows and the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in 2025, these events should be at the top of your list. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this magical experience. Booking Palace

3rd arrondissement of Paris: le Haut-Marais, chic, historic and trendy

The 3rd arrondissement is a chic, historic, and trendy district in central Paris, known for its galleries, museums, stylish boutiques, and vibrant cafés. It’s part of Le Marais, one of the city’s most fashionable and culturally rich neighborhoods. Unlike the bustling 4th arrondissement, the 3rd has a more intimate, artsy, and residential feel, making it perfect for strolling, shopping, and discovering hidden gems. For a general view of the 20

4th arrondissement of Paris : the Bas-Marais

The 4th arrondissement of Paris is one of the city’s most historic and vibrant districts, located on the Right Bank of the Seine. It is home to iconic landmarks, picturesque streets, and a mix of medieval charm and modern energy. The Marais district is partly in the 4th arrondissement (It is then sometimes called “the Bas-Marais”), the rest of the Marais is in the 3rd arrondissement, just to the north

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6th arrondissement of Paris, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Luxembourg Garden

The 6th arrondissement of Paris, called “the Luxembourg arrondissement” in a reference to the seat of the Senate upper house of the French Parliament and its beautyful garden. It is located on the Rive Gauche of the River Seine, just opposite of the Louvre Museum (Booking Le Louvre) and west of the Latin Quarter. For a general view of the 20 arrondissements of Paris click on Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris? The 6th arrondissement of

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5th arrondissement of Paris and the Quartier Latin

Paris’s 5th arrondissement is located on the left bank of the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame Cathedral on the opposite shore. It’s one of the oldest districts in Paris. A cosmopolitan mix of nationalities, it has always been home to young students, intellectuals and local families who have lived here for generations. The Latin Quarter, known the world over for its history and cultural influence, is largely located in the 5th arrondissement.

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Before you go

Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?

Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris? Which arrondissement to choose your hotel? Choosing the right district (arrondissement) to stay depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a guide to help you decide. (We apologize but this post is still under construction) Map of the 20 arrondissements of Paris [elfsight_google_maps id=”23″] Which districts (arrondissement) to stay in Paris Each arrondissement offers a

Panoramas Passage, from 1799, constantly evolving, a cultural landmark

The Passage des Panoramas, located in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic covered passages. Opened in 1799, it reflects the charm and elegance of the early 19th-century urban design and remains a vibrant destination today. Location and Accessibility Historical Evolution of Passage des Panoramas The Passage des Panoramas holds a unique place in Parisian history, not just as one

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Cultural places

19 covered passageways of Paris, a refined 19th-century atmosphere

Covered passageways of Paris are covered pedestrian streets. They are a series of pedestrian streets built between the end of the 18th century (just after the Révolution) and the early years of the Second Empire (1860). They run through blocks or buildings and are sheltered by a structure that is often glazed. They are generally lined with stores, and foreshadow contemporary department stores and shopping arcades. They are called galleries,

Cultural places

Visiting Paris with your family: 60 places to visit

Visiting Paris with your family requires careful planning. Not everyone’s tastes are the same. But Paris is a great city, offering a multitude of fun, educational and exciting activities for young and old alike. Here are a few suggestions for activities and sites to visit with the whole family. We’ve classified what you can see when visiting Paris with your family by theme, to make it easier to adapt your

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Christmas and New year in Paris: 110 adresses, ready to use

Christmas and New Year in Paris offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences, whether you’re an art lover, a gourmet, or simply looking for a magical atmosphere in which to celebrate the festive season. Christmas and New year in Paris : the Christmas markets The first experience is that of Christmas markets. There are many of them, some larger than others, but all with the same warm atmosphere. Christmas markets in

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In Paris: discover the city

The Queen’s necklace affair: everything you need to know

The Affair of the Queen’s Necklace is one of the most resounding scandals in the history of the French monarchy, marking the end of the Ancien Régime and tarnishing the reputation of Queen Marie-Antoinette. The scandal involved court intrigue, conspiracy and manipulation, all revolving around an extravagantly valuable diamond necklace. Here’s everything you need to know to understand this complex affair, which played a significant role in the troubles that

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In Paris: discover the city

The Impressionists in Paris : where to see their works

The Impressionists in Paris collections can be seen in 5 museum. But not all presentations are created equal. Firstly, they are not all of equal importance, and secondly, they all have a particular origin. So we’ve classified all these works by the museum in which they are to be found, with the author and the name given to them, indicating at the end of the list the originality of each

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In Paris: discover the city

The Impressionists movement, a new world revolution … in painting

The Impressionists movement took place 150 years ago. It revolutionized painting in the late 19th century by capturing the fleeting moments of everyday life with an emphasis on light, color, and brushstroke. The city became the creative hub for the Impressionists, who were drawn to its bustling streets, gardens, and cafés. Here’s an overview of how the Impressionists influenced and were influenced by Paris, along with some of the city’s

In Paris: discover the city

Notre-Dame de Paris, the novel by Victor Hugo

Notre-Dame de Paris by Victor Hugo is a sweeping, dramatic novel set in 15th-century Paris, centered around the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Victor Hugo wrote his manuscript between September 1830 and January 1831. The story is set in Paris in 1482. The novel consists of fifty-nine chapters divided into eleven books of unequal length.You will find below a structured summary that captures the essence of the novel highlighting major characters, themes,

In Paris: discover the city

Notre-Dame Reopening on December 8th, 2024 – An awaited moment

The reopening of Notre-Dame has been eagerly awaited since April 15, 2019. December 7 and 8, 2024 will be dates that will mark the history of Notre-Dame, just as much as that of its fire. It will be the day of the cathedral’s rebirth for centuries to come. (“for ever and ever”). More detailed information is available on our website: A two-stage Notre-Dame Reopening December 7 is the day on

Cultural places

11 classic books set in Paris, with key locations

Classic books set in Paris that we have selected, bring Paris to life through their characters’ journeys across its landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural sites, capturing the city’s layered history and complex social dynamics. These classic books set in Paris are all available in a wide range of languages, especially English.

In Paris: discover the city

Notre-Dame interior rehabilitation, a delicate, giant and unique renovation

A first dusting to start with the Notre-Dame interior rehabilitation Notre-Dame interior rehabilitation was a delicate operation. After the fire, it is impossible to know the precise state of the vaults in the nave, choir and transept. No one is allowed to walk or work underneath them. Before any work is undertaken, rope access technicians secure the vaults by laying a temporary layer of plaster and wire from above. This

In Paris: discover the city

Notre-Dame reconstruction after the fire, for the next centuries

Notre-Dame reconstruction, after it has been made safe between 2019 and 2021, has been a huge undertaking, most of it over 50 m above ground, with the spire reaching a height of 96 m. It was also a time of prowess in the art of restoring works of art damaged in the fire. Last but not least, it was a meticulous and intelligent organization of a worksite, with over 500

In Paris: discover the city

Securisation of Notre Dame after the fire of 2019

The securisation of Notre Dame took place from 2019 until june 2021. The devastating fire at Notre-Dame de Paris on April 15, 2019 marked a turning point in the history of this iconic cathedral. The fire partially destroyed the UNESCO World Heritage Site. France and the whole world watched in horror. This event launched an unprecedented emergency phase, dedicated to securing the site and preserving this national symbol. This article

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

Notre Dame in fire – What happened ? Which consequences ?

The fire at Notre Dame in the late afternoon of April 15, 2019 came as a shock to the whole world. The fire broke out at around 6:20 pm. The central spire, added in the 19th century by architect Viollet-Leduc, collapsed into the nave at 8pm, live on most prime-time TV news. The French were stunned. And the rest of the world learns of it during the night and the

Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

Versailles Tour: organise your visit of the castle and estate

A Versailles tour is a must on any stay in Paris. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but requires an extra day to your stay, even though Versailles is only 25 km from the center of Paris.A visit to Versailles also requires careful planning, as the Versailles estate is immense (800 ha) and includes 2 châteaux (the “Trianons”) in addition to the main castle, an 83-hectare garden (with statues), a 700-hectare park

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Cruises in Paris

Paris after the 2024 Olympique Games – New features for the future

Paris after the 2024 Olympique Games has changed. The return of the Olympics after a century since the previous ones held in Paris in 1924 (see our post 1924 to 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, a century of change) underlines the historic importance of these Games for France and the city of Paris. New sports and disciplines, spectacular ceremonies As for Tokyo 2020, new disciplines have been introduced or confirmed

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Guided Walks

20 departures for walks, self-guided, in Touristic Paris

20 departures for walks and to organize your visit to Paris. Self-guided walks. These walks should be seen as a complement to the monuments, museums and cathedrals that are essential parts of any stay in Paris. They are indispensable for tourists who want to go beyond the usual clichés in their knowledge of Paris and Parisians. These are relaxing and instructive walks, “interspersed” with “gourmet” relaxation breaks. To book airfares

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

Relaxation breaks on Pompidou-Bastille walk, choosing the best shops

Relaxation breaks on Pompidou-Bastille walk are always welcome. There’s plenty to see on this stroll, which starts just outside the Musée-Pompidou and winds its way through the Marais district. This district is unique in that it is both historically the district of the Jewish community in Paris and more recently the world-famous gay district. What are “Relaxation breaks on Pompidou-Bastille walk” in the Marais district The “Relaxation breaks on Pompidou-Bastille

In Paris: discover the city

Avenue-Montaigne à Paris, 500 m de luxe et haute couture

L’Avenue-Montaigne à Paris est probablement l’artère où les grands noms de la mode et de la Haute-Couture française et internationale sont les plus nombreux. C’est un rêve de “shopping” pour de nombreux touristes dont les moyens sont à la hauteur des prix pratiqués. Pour les autres, c’est l’occasion de rêver et aussi de visiter les boutiques si vous le désirez. Pour faciliter votre visite, nous avons sélectionné les 29 boutiques

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In Paris: discover the city

Montaigne-Avenue in Paris, 500 m of luxe and Haute-Couture

The Montaigne-Avenue in Paris is probably the artery where the great names of French and international fashion and Haute-Couture are most numerous. It’s a shopping dream for many tourists whose means match their prices. For others, it’s a chance to dream, and to visit the boutiques if you wish. To make your visit easier, we’ve selected the 29 stores and merchants on Avenue-Montaigne (almost 80%) that have been rated by

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Before you go

Shopping on the Champs-Elysées : list of 100 shops to visit

Shopping on the Champs-Elysées is a dream for many tourists. And to make your visit easier, we’ve selected the 100 shops most popular with the tourists who came before you. And we present these stores in a variety of ways, for you to choose from: How we selected the 100 stores featured The shops we recommend are rated from 1 to 5, and we’ve eliminated from our lists those rated

20 Self-guided walks

Relaxation breaks to walk down Montmartre hill without fatigue

Relaxation breaks to walk down Montmartre are always appreciated: it is usually at the end of the day after hours of walk, visits and shopping. Fortunately the relaxation breaks on the western side of the Montmartre hill that we recommend you to take are numerous and varied. You can even combine your return with our walk Musée-de-Montmartre to Pigalle which follows this route. We have planned also 2 more self-guided

20 Self-guided walks

Relaxation breaks on the way to the Sacré-Cœur by Montmartre-sud

Relaxation breaks on the way to the Sacré-Cœur are always welcome when you visit the hill of Montmartre, a steep neighborhood with narrow streets. We have planned 3 self-guided walks of the Butte Montmartre, and for each of them, 13 to 25 points of interest. In addition, each walk is punctuated with relaxation breaks at the shops along the way. Map of the 3 walks on the Butte Montmartre Voir

20 Self-guided walks

Relaxation breaks on the Butte-Montmartre top of Paris walk

Butte-Montmartre relaxation breaks are always welcome when you visit this sloping neighborhood with its narrow streets. We have planned 3 self-guided walks of the Butte and for each one, relaxation breaks at the shopkeepers, along the walks or strolls. Map of our 3 walks on the Butte Montmartre Voir en plein écran (To see the full screen map) What is a Relaxation breaks on the Butte-Montmartre ? These “Relaxation Breaks”

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

Visiting Paris on foot, see everything at your own pace

Visiting Paris on foot is probably the best way to visit Paris. For a simple reason: the density of things to see is such that in 2 to 300 m of street, you will often find 2 or 3 points of interest that you can only appreciate by stopping, reading or listening to a related information. Visiting Paris is not about riding the metro, driving a car, scooter or bicycle,

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

How to climb the Butte-Montmartre, without getting tired

How to climb the Butte-Montmartre ? It is not very high (130 m). However, one goes from 70 m (Bottom of the Butte) to the highest point over a distance of about 500 m. This means that the streets are quite steep. Personal cars – and private buses – are not allowed on its narrow streets. If you want to visit the Butte Montmartre it is wise to know what

Before you go

Self-guided walk so easy to use, by VPBY

Self-guided walk of our site Visiting Paris by Yourself (VPBY) are the most complete, economical and fun way to get to know Paris: 1. Visiting with a guide is the supposedly best way for sightseeing tours. But it comes at a cost, and must fit into a set schedule: your guide’s availability.2. Walking or biking (or riding a scooter) through the streets of Paris is the ideal way to see and appreciate many more

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

July 14th in Paris: what to see – what to avoid

July 14th in Paris, the day of the national holiday! It is an event not only for the French.In the collective mind, it goes back to the French Revolution of 1789, which is false. However, it is quite a symbol. It is the occasion for events in which everyone can participate, even those who are just passing through France, like tourists. Below is a summary of everything that happens in

Cruise-on-the-Seine in Paris, choose services, embarkation port and price

Cruises on the romantic Parisian-canals – Just exit the metro

Cruises on the romantic Parisian-canals are also part of the Parisian cruises that are not limited to cruises on the Seine. We present here less known, more intimate and so romantic cruises … And yet, these cruises start in the City of Paris: you will take one of these boats by taking the metro first, as simple as that and the port of embarkment is at the exit of the

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Cruise-on-the-Seine in Paris, choose services, embarkation port and price

A “Cruise-on-the-Seine” is one of the privileged and awaited moments by the tourists. It is indeed difficult to visit Paris without taking a tour on the Seine, because the view on the city is totally different: it is a relaxing synthesis of monuments, museums and other historical or not buildings, which mark the course of the boats. You wish a cruise-promenade, a romantic outing, an exceptional event or simply a

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Before you go

Non-French-speaking tourists : don’t miss out on anything when visiting Paris

The fear of many non-French-speaking tourists is to make themselves understood when they are in France. However, the solution is within reach, without even having to learn French. We explain below the reasons for our optimism. Foreign languages, the Tower of Babel complex and French language for non-French-speaking tourists There are about 6900 languages in the world today. The French language is known to be quite difficult. It’s official: UNESCO

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Guided walks, Relaxation breaks and shopping, Cruises

Insecurity in Paris for foreign tourists – Protect yourself easily

Insecurity in Paris for tourists: you are afraid of what has been said on social networks or in some press. And you are planning to visit Paris very soon?Most of the information is misleading and out of context. For example, we found an article in https://hospitality-on.com/en/tourism/insecurity-tourists-paris-worries-hoteliers. This article was listed at the top of the Google list on September 2021. Il was written on June 19, 2013, “updated” on May

In Paris: discover the city

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