Paris guide

Although there are more clichés about Paris than there are tourists thronging the corridors of the Louvre, the truth is that Paris does have something utterly bewitching about it. For centuries, artists and writers have attempted to capture the essence of the “City of Love”, and although romance is indeed everywhere – on the bridges of the Seine, on the steps of Sacre-Cœur at sunset, and in sunny street cafes – despite all the ridiculous clichés you might just find yourself falling in love with Paris itself.
If you’re planning to travel to Paris, you’ll want to tick off its most famous sights. Naturally you should start with Paris’s most famous landmark of all, the “iron lady”, the elegant Eiffel Tower, from the top of which you’ll see the whole city laid out before you. For cultural immersion, hit the Louvre Museum with its futuristic glass pyramid in the central courtyard. The elegant Tuileries garden in front of the Louvre is a peaceful spot, with its beautifully kept lawns and fountains.
Refreshed and ready to hit the shops in Paris? Make your way up the most famous avenue in the world, the Champs-Elysées, leading up to the Arc de Triomphe. Paris is, of course, known to be a hub of fashion and design, and the city’s top creations are showcased every year at the Foire de Paris in springtime. For a glimpse of the world of the Paris fashionista check out the Galeries Lafayette, or just wander down the Rue St Honoré. For an intellectual stroll, the Latin Quarter houses the grand old university buildings, while the literary area of Saint Germain houses a plethora of boutiques and contemporary art galleries. Nearby you will find Notre Dame, of Victor Hugo's celebrated novel.
While you’re wandering along the Seine do stop off at the wooden bridge by the Louvre, the Pont des Arts. By day there are hoards of tourists, but at sunset the Parisians come out: why not do as the locals do and take a picnic? Enjoy the sunset over the river as you nibble on your baguette with ham and cheese, washed down with a good bottle of wine.
Some major must see events in Paris include the finish of the Tour de France and the Paris Marathon which take place on the Avenue de Champs-Elysées. Other sporting highlights on the Paris calendar include Roland Garros: the French Open and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, a horse race which takes place at Longchamps racecourse.
Catch an exhibition at the Pompidou Centre which is at the forefront of modern and contemporary art. If you're looking for family things to do in Paris, you can’t beat Disneyland Paris for entertainment value, while for those interested in history, the Château de Versailles, with its beautiful gardens and fountains, is the former royal residence and is an Aladdin's cave of imperial treasures.

Top things to do : Paris

• Paris : Musical Gardens, walkFrom  02/04/2013 to 29/10/2013
• Paris : The Night of WaterFrom  01/06/2013 to 01/06/2013

• Paris : The Chat Noir, arts and pleasures in Montmartre (1880-1910), exhibitionFrom  13/09/2012 to 02/06/2013
• Paris : Iron Maiden in concert at BercyFrom  05/06/2013 to 05/06/2013

• Paris : N°5 Culture Chanel, exhibition at the Palais de TokyoFrom  05/05/2013 to 05/06/2013
• Paris : Rihanna in concert at the Stade de France, Diamonds World Tour 2013From  08/06/2013 to 08/06/2013

• Paris : International Model Making FairFrom  06/06/2013 to 09/06/2013
• Paris : The French Open at Roland GarrosFrom  21/05/2013 to 09/06/2013

• Paris : Designer's DaysFrom  04/06/2013 to 09/06/2013
• Paris : The Grand Masquerade Ball at Versailles, carnivalFrom  14/06/2013 to 14/06/2013