Rivaling the museums in splendor are Paris’ towers, churches, palaces, archways, bridges and fountains, a survey of a glorious 2,000-year-old past. The Eiffel Tower, arguably the most famous landmark in the world, is the capital’s most visited attraction. Some 20,000 bulbs light up the edifice at night, which makes it even more stunning. The impressive Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris is a masterwork of Gothic architecture, constructed between 1163 and 1334. It was plundered during the French Revolution and has been undergoing restoration since the 19th century. It was there that Mary Queen of Scots married the Dauphin Francis (later Francis II), Napoleon was anointed emperor and Joan of Arc was beatified and subsequently canonized. The Basilica of Sacré Coeur in Montmartre, another can’t-miss religious site, is perched atop the highest point in Paris and affords tourists spectacular views of the whole city.
All that sightseeing is bound to give you an appetite. Fortunately, you’re in the right place, with hundreds of traditional bistros, sidewalk cafes and premium restaurants to choose from. For Parisians, meals are not only about great food but also the experience. Take a look at where the locals dine – particularly if you’re on a budget – and follow accordingly.
Other must-dos for your first time in Paris – dinner on the Eiffel Tower, a cruise on the Seine, a show at the Moulin Rouge, climbing up the stairs to Montmartre.
Isn’t it romantic?
Now for amour. Heather Stimmler-Hall, author of “Naughty Paris,” offers these suggestions:
Champagne at Flute – This tiny venue, hidden on an intimate side street just off the Place de l’Etoile was once a “gentleman’s bar,” and still has an illicit feel to it. Take a seat on the red velour banquette next to the fireplace with a Champagne cocktail or find a quiet alcove upstairs for a more intimate tête-à-tête.
Afternoon Tea at the Ritz – If you’re going to do tea, do it in style in one of the most posh settings in Paris, surrounded by sparkling crystal, priceless antiques, and polished silver. Your gourmet tea (or an amazingly thick hot chocolate) is served with a tower of delectable pastries, tiny sandwiches, and scones with cream and jam. And, of course, no one will bat an eye if you and your amoureux – or amoureuse -- steals a few kisses at the table.
Cocktails and Wagyu Burgers at Prescription Cocktail Club – An anonymous black façade gives no indication of the stylish speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden inside, which is just the way the jeunese dorée of Paris like it. The decor has an elegant 1930s style, with Magritte-inspired bowler hats used as lampshades and comfy upholstered sofas. Come for aperitifs. But if you find it hard to tear yourself away for dinner, the divine Wagyu beef mini-burgers made with foie gras will fill you up without slowing you down.
Chocolate Massage at the Four Seasons…Instead of the traditional box of chocolates, impress your sweetheart with a decadent, “All About Chocolate” spa treatment at the Four Seasons Hotel, George V, Paris. A chocolate-mint body scrub is followed by a Swiss chocolate and toffee body wrap and then a deep tissue massage using cocoa oil. In short, two and a half hours of pure bliss – without the calorie counting.
And then you and your “sweetheart” are ready to nibble on each other.
Visit Cappy at travel-by-net.com.
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