Destination:
Paris

Fete de la Musique

Every year on the summer solstice, Paris hosts amateur and professional musicians who perform in a variety of venues around the city, from public squares, streets and parks to opera houses and castles. The festival aims to celebrate music in all forms and is open to anyone. A large free concert is traditionally held featuring some big names in the music world, but on every corner, in doorways, in restaurants and hospitals, museums and courtyards, there are the sounds of music, from jazz, salsa and techno, to choirs, orchestras and steel bands, accompanied by people dancing, eating and drinking. All musicians are encouraged to perform for free. This is a vibrant and exciting time to visit France and you will be delighted by the festive atmosphere and the variety of talent on display. The festival started in France but has now spread to at least 100 other countries which is a testament to its popularity and success.

Bastille Day Celebrations

France's most important national holiday, Bastille Day commemorates the beginning of the French Revolution with ceremonies, dancing, parties and balls all over the city. In the morning there is a grand military parade along the Champs Elysees - the oldest and largest regular military parade in Europe - accompanied overhead by jet formations, and after the day-long festivities, a fireworks display takes place near the Eiffel Tower. The day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on the 16 July 1789. Although the French Revolution was a bloody and tragic period of history the revolutionary ideals of freedom, equality and fraternity are proudly celebrated and for France this is a kind of independence day and a celebration of the development of a modern, democratic nation. It is a special day to be in France, particularly Paris, and visitors will be overwhelmed by the patriotism, ceremony and festive atmosphere. For more information contact the Paris Tourist Office on +33 (0)892 683 000 or email info@paris-touristoffice.com

French Open

Together with Wimbledon, the Australian Open and the US Open, the French Open is one of the four events that together are known as the tennis 'Grand Slam'. The tournament has become the most highly prized clay court title in the world and one of the biggest sporting events in France. Besides the best tennis players in the world, the stadium is also the place to be seen for the fashion conscious. The big matches are packed with celebrities and the vibe in Paris is thrilling. Even if you are not a big tennis fan, if you are in Paris during the French Open it is well worth your while to attend a match and soak up the atmosphere. For more information, call the ticketing line on +33 (0)1 4743 5252.

Le Salon du Chocolat

An annual festival in celebration of chocolate is a dream come true for chocoholics, and the large convention centre beneath the Louvre hosts just that. There are tastings and chefs demonstrations at a huge variety of international chocolatiers stands; opportunities to sample and buy goodies such as truffles, chocolate-dipped fruit kebabs, hot chocolate and cakes; as well as chocolate fashion, sculpture and art. The fashion show featuring chocolate-inspired creations is so popular that it is always held, although many exhibitions and performances change year to year. Exhibitions include the history of chocolate, books on chocolate and desserts, and an antique collection of 'teapots' used exclusively for hot chocolate. A Chocoland for children entertains with chocolate makeup and other delicious activities. It is a great day out for the whole family and a unique event to attend. It is a testament to its popularity that it is now held in many cities all over the world. For more information contact the organisers on +33 (0)1 4503 2126 or email info@chocoland.com

World Circus Festival of Tomorrow

The annual Circus Festival provides an unequalled opportunity to see top international circus performers from famous schools together under one roof, including acts from the Beijing Circus, the Moscow Circus, the Knie Circus and local talent Ecole Fratellini. The aim is to bring together young acrobats, animal trainers and clowns and to reveal new and exciting trends in circus acts from traditional, modern and experimental circus performances. There is a talent show aspect to the festival and the performers compete against each other in various categories according to age group and expertise; many exeptional performers have been discovered on this platform and these shows launch careers. There are a number of shows which cater to both traditional and contemporary tastes in circus performance (for instance, it should be easy to avoid animal performances if you so desire). This is a fun festival to attend and should delight people of all ages. Cost varies according to the show. For more information contact the organisers at festival@cirquededemain.com.

Prix de l�Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, often referred to as just the 'Arc', is France's premier horse race and attracts thoroughbreds and racing enthusiasts from all over the world. Since its inaugural race in 1920, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe has become established as the all-aged middle-distance championship of Europe, and today it offers total prize money of €1,600,000. The race was first run in 1920 and many of the winners have gone on to be champions of the sport. The Arc is more than just a horse race though, it is a society event and a great day out for visitors and locals alike. Even if you are not a racing fanatic, you will enjoy the palpable excitement in the atmosphere and the fun of picking a horse to bet on. Food and drink flows freely at the race and some people take the opportunity to dress up. Entrance to the race is €8; free for under 18s.

Autumn Festival

Held every autumn and continuing for months, this arts festival is a showcase for contemporary art in all forms from around the world, including theatre, film, music, dance, sculpture and literature. It is the largest festival of its kind in the world, which is saying something as art festivals are becoming very popular the world over. Special attention is given to foreign culture as well experimental work and the development of new talents. If you are in Paris between September and December it is well worth your while to check out the festival programme and see what artistic gems you can enjoy during your holiday. The incredible variety of talent and genre ensures that there is something to cater to all tastes. For more information email info@festival-automne.com.

Tour de France

What started off as a far-fetched, unimaginable idea dreamed up by two gentlemen in a Parisian brasserie in 1902, has a century later grown into the world's greatest bicycle race, indeed considered by many to be the greatest annual sporting event on earth. The unique spectacle is ingrained in France's heritage, traditionally ending in Paris, and draws hundreds of local and international cyclists in a battle for dominance over 2,175 gruelling miles (3,500km) every year. The race is split into 21 daily stages and completes a clockwise loop around the country, including treacherous mountain roads in the Pyrenees and the Alps. The famous yellow jersey is worn by the overall General Classification leader who maintains the lowest overall time. Every year the first stage of the race starts somewhere different, either in France or in another country. The race is a joy for spectators and there are many popular parts of the race to watch; spectators gather in numerous villages and cities to cheer on the cyclists and the race is enthusiastically supported.

Nuit Blanche

For one night a year in Paris the idea is to stay awake and partake in the observance of night. Many public services, entertainment facilities and tourist attractions, cafes, bars and restaurants stay open throughout the night to help keep people awake. The white nightis a celebration of human culture and communication and encourages people to enjoy one another's company; you are meant to appreciate all the things you don't find time to do during the daytime ratrace and everyday routines, like have long conversations, enjoy drawn out dinners, and play games. It is a wonderful tradition, widely celebrated, and a really special night to find yourself in Paris. You can stroll the famous streets, eat out and even visit certian attractions and it is a good night to socialise and perhaps meet some locals. The Nuit Blanche is primarily an arts festival so the galleries and museums often remain open and let people in free of charge; the city becomes a sort of all-night art exhibition. And Paris is incredibly well-equipped in this regard.

Paris Plage (Beach)

Two thousand tons of sand and some palm trees is all that is needed to annually transform the right bank of the Seine into a manmade beach worthy of the French capital. The Paris Plage (Paris Beach) is a highly popular, free 'event' instituted by the City Fathers in 2002 that attracts millions of visitors to its shores. Between July and August, land-locked city dwellers can enjoy sun, fun and themed activities, without the usual Parisian price tag. A recent addition is a large swimming pool - good news for those seeking some relief from the summer sun, especially as the dirty water of the Seine itself is not a welcome thought. Other activities on offer include beach volleyball, kayaking, aerobic classes in the pool and free concerts. There are deck chairs strewn about for public use, ice-cream vendors ply the crowds and you can even borrow a book to read while lounging, free of charge. The Paris beach is usually concentrated around three main areas on the river bank: the Louvre/Pont de Sully, Port de la Gare, and Bassin de la Villette.

Eiffel Tower

Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) could never have guessed that it would become Paris' signature sightseeing attraction and bring more than six million visitors a year. It was built as a temporary structure to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution and was opened by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII of England. The Eiffel Tower was considered an eyesore by many and there were petitions to have it pulled down. It was saved only because it had become an important antenna for telegraphy. It towers 984 feet (300m) above the Champ de Mars and until 1930 was the world's tallest building. The highest of its three levels offers a wonderful panoramic view over Paris. The Eiffel Tower itself has several restaurants, including the popular Le Jules Verne, with panoramic views of the city, and a champagne bar at the very top. There are also several souvenir shops and a carousel at the base. This is a great way to keep children entertained if you plan to go to the top of the Tower, as the queues can be several hours long. A slightly different (and cheaper) way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower is with a picnic on the lawns with the famous structure providing a picturesque backdrop.

Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame looms large over the Place de Paris, on the Isle de la Cité, and as the most enduring symbol of Paris is an alluring tourist attraction. Built between 1163 and 1345 the Cathedral is considered one of the world's Gothic masterpieces. The massive interior can seat 6,000 people and it is dominated by three spectacular and enormous rose windows and a vast 7,800-pipe organ. The 387-step climb to the top of the towers is worth the effort for the panoramic view of the city and the close-up views of the famous gargoyles. The tower also holds the great bell that was rung by Quasimodo, the fictional hunchback in the novel by Victor Hugo. Opposite the north door is a museum that displays the Cathedral's history, while under the square in front of the Cathedral is the crypt that houses Notre-Dame's archaeological museum. The church has no gift shop, but votive candles are available at points in the church in return for a donation. For a special experience, visit Notre-Dame on a Sunday morning when Paris' museums are closed and services are being held, but be respectful of worshippers, especially when taking photos. Some say the best time to visit Notre Dame, however, is on summer evenings for the Night Show, operatic performances projected on a 100-metre tulle screen hanging in the nave. The performances are held nightly in July and August.

Louvre

One of the world's great art museums, this vast edifice houses an extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures and antiquities from all over the world. The permanent collections are divided into Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Asian antiquities, painting, drawings, sculpture and objects d'art. The Louvre was opened to the public in 1793, soon after the Revolution, to display the spectacular treasures looted from the royal palaces. The best-known attractions in the Louvre are Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic Mona Lisa, which is protected by bullet-proof glass within its own room; and the ancient Venus de Milo. While the Venus de Milo is one of the highlights of a visit to the Louvre, the Mona Lisa can be a disappointment because people usually imagine it is much bigger than it is - and it is usually surrounded by a crowd. With more than 35,000 works on display, don't even attempt to see it all in one day. The building itself is a work of art and the ceilings, floors and staircases will enthrall visitors.

Pompidou Centre

Built in the 1970s and named after former French president Georges Pompidou, the futuristic Pompidou Centre is now considered part of the Parisian landscape. The outrageous design, complete with its glass elevators, was the inspiration for the Lloyds Building in London and attracts visitors by the million; it is the city's most popular attraction by far. The building houses the Musée National d'Art Modern (MNAM), which displays a vast collection of 20th century art, from Fauvism and Cubism to Abstract and Absurd, and its numerous cinemas and theatres have regular musical and dance performances. The square to the West of the building attracts a varied assortment of street performers. While you're there, be sure to check out the whimsical Stravinsky Fountain with its 16 water-spraying scultpures.

Mus�e d'Orsay

This great museum is fairly new by Paris standards. It is situated in a railway station by the Seine and houses a vast collection of works from the significant 1848 to 1914 period. There are important works from the Art-Nouveau movement but the Orsay is best known for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The collection is arranged chronologically and contains highly regarded works by Monet, Manet and Courbet. Also on permanent display is the famous painting by Gustave Doré entitled L'énigmeand Henri Chapu's marble statue of Joan of Arc in Domrémy. The Musee d'Orsay is one of the most famous art museums in the world and one of France's premier attractions. Even if you are not a great lover of art you will appreciate this world-class museum. There is a restaurant and a book shop at the museum.

Mus�e Rodin

The Rodin Museum is situated near the Musée d'Orsay and is housed in what was formerly the Hôtel Biron, the beautiful hotel where Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) once lived and worked. Inside are many of Rodin's great marble sculptures including The Kisswhile outside, in the garden, are famous bronzes including The Thinker.The museum also includes many works by Camille Claudel (Rodin's pupil and mistress) and paintings by Van Gogh, Renoir, Manet and Rodin himself. The museum has a gift shop, with reproductions of some of the most famous works. Unfortunately the museum has been closed for renovations recently; the east wing has reopened with a temporary exhibition featuring the most famous works of Rodin and Claudel and this is still very much worth the visit, particularly as the lovely gardens also remain open; however, the west wing is still closed and not all the art is currently on display. See website for details.

Musée National Picasso

The Picasso Museum is situated in a 17th century mansion in the heart of Paris. The collection was started in 1973, after the French government accepted Picasso's own collection in lieu of death duties, and was added to after his widow's death in 1990. All the phases of work from the Paris-based artist are represented here including his paintings, drawings, ceramics, sculptures and even poetry. Memorable works include the self-portrait Paolo as Harlequinand Nude in an Armchair. Most of Picasso's great paintings, however, are owned by and housed in foreign museums or are in the hands of private collectors. It is an unusual museum - mainly because of the unusual artist - and a must for Picasso enthusiasts and anybody who appreciates art. The mansion which houses the museum is gorgeous and creates just the right atmosphere for the diverse collection. Unfortunately, the museum is currently closed for renovations and will reopen in summer 2013.

Versailles

The Château de Versailles stands 15 miles (24km) southwest of Paris and is one of France's most noted attractions. Most of the palace was built between 1664 and 1715 by Louis XIV (known as the Sun King), who turned his father's hunting lodge into the grandest palace ever built. The 'Old Château' still exists but is enveloped by the vast white stone façade of the New Château. This lavish statement of monarchical power was to become a symbol of the excess that would lead to the revolution of 1789. Perhaps the most famous room in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, signifying the end of the Great War. Within the palace visitors can also see the former royal bedchambers, the grand staircase and other staterooms, and within the vast landscaped park and gardens are many wonderfully ornate fountains and ponds. There is a small train that ferries visitors from the palace to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, former love nests where both the Sun King and Napoleon enjoyed the company of their mistresses.

Fontainebleau

In the 16th century, Henry II and Catherine de Medici commissioned architects Philibert Delorme and Jean Bullant to build a new palace within the Fontainebleau forest, 40 miles (64km) south of Paris. Italian Mannerist artists Rosso Fiorentino and Primaticcio came to assist in the interior decoration, helping to found the School of Fontainebleau. Visitors will see the long Gallery of François I, which the artists adorned with scenes like The Rape of Europaand the monarch holding a pomegranate, a symbol of unity, as well as the richly adorned Louis XV Staircase and the monumental fireplace and frescoes in the ballroom. The palace was a refuge for French monarchs from the days of the Renaissance; they valued it because of its distance from the slums of Paris and for the rich hunting grounds that surrounded it. Many important events have occurred here, perhaps none more memorable than when Napoleon stood on the grand steps in front of the palace and bade farewell to his shattered army before departing for Elba. The chateau boasts four museums, beautiful and vast grounds and many treasures. Compared to the glories of Versailles, however, Fontainebleau can be a bit of an anticlimax; it is best to see it before Versailles.

Arc de Triomphe

The world's largest triumphal arch, the Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile is set at the centre of a star-shaped configuration of 12 radiating avenues in the heart of the Champs Elysées. It stands 165 feet (51m) tall and the names of major victories won during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods are engraved around the top of the Arch. The names of less important victories, as well as those of 558 generals, can be found on the inside walls. Since 1920, the tomb of France's Unknown Soldier has been sheltered underneath the arch. Its eternal flame commemorates the dead of the two world wars, and is rekindled every evening at 6pm. On July 14, the French National Day, also known as Bastille Day, a military parade starts at the arch and proceeds down the Champs Elysées. You can climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe (or take the elevator) and the views over Paris are spectacular. It is a humbling monument which can't fail to inspire respect and awe and a trip to Paris is not complete without a visit.

Les Invalides

Les Invalides was built by Louis XIV in 1670 as a military hospital to take care of wounded soldiers and now comprises the largest single collection of monuments and museums in Paris, all relating to the military history of France. It is the burial site of some of France's war heroes, and a number of France's famous dead, including the ashes of the greatest French military commander, Napoleon Bonaparte, rest under the dome of Les Invalides and attract many visitors to Paris. Its large grounds and church with a golden dome make Les Invalides a classical French architecture masterpiece. There are also impressive collections of weaponry from all periods of French history. Numerous suits of armour, including those made in children's sizes for boy kings, are part of this collection. Military history buffs will be in heaven at Les Invalides and even the less clued-up and interested will be moved by the place.

Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is France's main botanical garden. Covering 28 hectares (280,000 sq m) the garden was originally planted by Louis XIII's doctor in 1626 as a medicinal herb garden. In 1640 it became Paris's first public garden. In 1739, after a long period of decline, the gardens were expanded greatly and a maze called the Labyrinth was added. It still exists today. Currently, in addition to being a lovely green lung in the city, the Jardin des Plantes maintains a botanical school which constructs demonstration gardens and trains botanists. The massive grounds house the Natural History Museum which is one of the main attractions for visitors. There is also a small zoo, founded in 1795 to house part of the royal menagerie from Versailles, and now containing small animals in simulated natural habitats. The gardens boast tropical hothouses that are home to a variety of unusual plants, native mostly to Mexico and Australia, and there is also an Alpine Garden, a beautiful Rose Garden, and an Art Deco-style Winter Garden. There is lots to see in the garden and visitors can wander for hours. It is a lovely place to bring children to, if you are travelling with kids in Paris, as they get a chance to expend some energy and take a break from more traditional sightseeing.

Disneyland Paris

Comprising two theme parks, Disneyland Paris is a must for all children visiting the city. The resort is a great place to see all their favourite characters, from Mickey and Minnie, to Buzz and Woody, to a veritable chorus line of Princesses. Many of the most loved attractions from the American parks are there, including Sleeping Beauty's Castle, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant. With rides and attractions for children of all ages, everyone will have a great time at Disneyland Paris. There are also seven Disney-owned hotels for visitors and holidaymakers to choose from to help make their Disneyland Paris experience one to remember. Hotel guests get special perks like extended park hours and character meet-and-greets, and have access to additional attractions for adults like the golf course. On your way to the park, you can visit Val d'Europe, a town specially-built for Disneyland Paris.

Mus�e National d'Histoire Naturelle

Located in the Jardin des Plantes, the Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle (Natural History Museum) greets visitors with two gigantic whale skeletons at the entrance. With wonderful exhibitions and fascinating displays on botany, archaeology and palaeontology to name a few, the museum will captivate kids' imaginations and educate them as well. The dinosaur exhibit is hugely popular with the younger visitors, but this museum is a must for children of all ages. The museum is large and actually combines three museums into one (sometimes they are listed independently), including a four-story taxonomy wing called the Hall of Evolution, a gallery dedicated to paleontology - the study of fossils, including the beloved dinosaur exhibit - and a separate building devoted entirely to minerology. You can choose to visit only one of these three museums. There is plenty to enthrall little ones (and grown up ones) and the fact that the museum feels a little old-fashioned actually adds to its charm. It is best not to go on too hot a day because there is no real air conditioning.

Le Jardin d� Acclimatation

This children's amusement park sees thousands of tourists every year. It features a menagerie and the Exploradome Museum, with fantastic optical illusions and amazing structures. The park's attractions include zip-lines, swings, deforming mirrors, paddling pools, radio-controlled boats, a theatre, a small farm, pony and camel rides, an aviary, a butterfly garden and amusement rides. Apart from being loads of fun this wonderland of games and activities is frequently educational and many of the activities are designed to educate children. The park offers workshops for children over three that aim not only to amuse but to teach skills and cultivate talents; workshops revolve around things like cooking, gardening, magic and theatre. There are also joint workshops for parents and young children and a few classes for adults only. There are a number of restaurants and cafes on the premises which are useful for refueling as you will probably need at least a few hours here and could easily spend a whole day. It is a great place for kids to blow off steam at the same time as learning some useful skills; the activities are wonderful for parent/child bonding too.

Parc Asterix

Based on the famous comics by Uderzo and Goscinny about cheeky Gauls who annoy the Roman Empire, the Parc Asterix is a theme park located just outside of Paris. Kids will love meeting their favourite characters, including, of course, Asterix himself, and his giant friend Obelix. The park is well known for its large variety of roller-coasters and has begun incorporating rides and themes from historic cultures such as the Romans and the ancient Greeks. There are now six different worlds at the park: Gaul, Egypt, Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, Vikings, and Travel through Time. Apart from the epic rollercoasters, popular rides include the Menhir Express, a log flume ride, the Goudurix, the Grand Splatch and the Oxygénarium. There are lots of shows at the park and entrance to these performances is included in your ticket. One of the more popular shows is the dolphin and sea lion show. The Parc Asterix will delight children but it is also wonderful for adults and there are plenty of thrilling rides for adrenalin seekers.

France Miniature

Located in Flancourt, France Miniature features over 130 models of famous French attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Lourdes, St Tropez, Le Mont-Saint-Michel and Versailles, for visitors to enjoy. Everything has been created with a 1:30 scale and some for the models are even animated. The detail of the models is remarkable and a joy for those interested in architecture as well as kids. The miniature world includes mechanised trains, cars and boats and there are tiny people visiting the attractions. Children will love spending a day out at this miniature country which feels like a massive doll's house. There are also some fun games and a small amusement park with several rides on offer (cost included in entrance ticket). There is a restaurant and a souvenir shop on site but a lovely way to enjoy the park, and save money, is to bring along your own picnic.

Aquaboulevard

The largest water park in Europe and located in the heart of the city of Paris, Aquaboulevard is a great treat for kids (and adults!). One of the big advantages of this attraction is the fact that most of it is indoors, making it fun on sunny or rainy days in Paris; if you are travelling in Paris with kids it's a good activity to keep up your sleeve for a rainy day. The park itself includes various waterslides, a spa area with hot baths and jacuzzis, indoor and outdoor wave pools, a beach area for relaxing, and a wave machine which allows you to try surfing or wakeboarding on a standing wave, amongst other things. The attractions are not limited to water either; the complex also offers cinemas, a mini golf course, tennis courts, a fitness centre, play areas, and other indoor attractions. Children under three are not allowed into Aquaboulevard.