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Switzerland offers an endless natural beauty as well as a rich cultural history. Indeed, there are many things to discover. If you cannot decide what to do in Switzerland, you should have a look at these top things to do in Switzerland to have an unforgettable experience! This heavenly destination is full of experiences to offer. Let’s discover together!

1. Go Shopping in The Famous Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most famous and expensive shopping streets in Zurich. It is a must-visit place on any trip to Zurich. It is close to the Zurich’s Main Railway Station.

There you can find numerous boutiques, department stores, and timepiece stores. Although the street is very popular among tourists, you will see many locals as well.

While you can chill along the lake in the summer, you may take a hot chocolate in the winter.

Photo Credit: Flickr

2. Have A Sky-Dinner In The Cable Car

Switzerland is known for its natural beauties. “The best view comes after the hardest climb.” Don’t worry! You won’t climb by yourself to have the best view. The cable car will take you slowly up the mountain while you are enjoying the last sunshine over Grindelwald. You will start your dinner in the bottom with aperitifs, once the cable car is climbing the top, you will have the main dishes to enjoy the view. After arriving at the bottom station, you will have your dessert, coffee, and a digestif. Having a sky-dinner is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Switzerland.

Photo Credit: Post Magazine

3. Taste Delicious Swiss Chocolates

Switzerland equals to fine quality chocolate. If you visit Switzerland, you wouldn’t miss tasting Swiss chocolates. You can either take a tour of Nestle’s Callier Factory or visit popular shops in Zurich,  Geneva or Vevey. This experience will be the sweetest one in your life!

Plus, it is a great idea to get Swiss chocolates to take back home for friends and family!

Photo Credit: Flickr

4. Take A Train To Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is also called the top of Europe! It is Europe’s highest-altitude railway station, culminating at 3454 meters. This journey is the highlight of every visit to Switzerland. The train offers visitors a wonderworld of ice, snow, and rock.  You will admire the Swiss Alps. If the sky allows, you may have views extend as far as the Vosges mountains in France and Germany’s Black Forest.

For nature lovers, this experience is one of the must things to do in Switzerland.

Photo Credit: Flickr

5. Experience The Local Wildlife In The Swiss National Park or in the Alps

The Swiss National Park is Switzerland is the only national park of the country and the oldest in central Europe. There, there are only 2 things that you are allowed to do: hiking and watching. The park is so huge that it counts 21 different walking routes, requiring each a different type of equipment. Regular trails do not require any special equipment nor any special skills. Mountain trails require hiking boots and wind-breaker and also may include steep hills and climbs. Finally, the Alpine trail requires a technical hike with alpine equipment. You will experience the local wildlife here.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

You can also decide to hike in one of the most famous hiking spots of the world: the Alps. There is nothing like hiking in the Alps! Despite Switzerland being known for its fine chocolate and for being one of the only neutral country in the world, life there also and mainly revolves about the Alps. The Swiss Alps offer many hiking routes with different levels from beginners to advanced hikers. Bachalpsee & First (Grindelwald) or The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge (Zermatt) are some examples of the best hikes in Switzerland.

We would suggest you go hiking in autumn. The trees changing their color to yellow and red, you will get amazing views, as beautiful as painting. Hiking in the Alps is definitely one of the top things to do in Switzerland. 

Photo credit: Maxpixel.net

6. See The Most Powerful Waterfall: The Rhine Falls

Would you like to be amazed by the nature? You will stand high above Europe’s largest waterfall and feel the vibration of the water. Virtually in the middle of the waterfall, you may stand on platforms that jut out and partially hover over the Rhine. The castles of Wörth and Laufen can be reached by a riverboat, and very daring visitors can rent canoes. The boats usually operate from April to October with most boats departing from the right bank (Schlössli Wörth Castle) of the Rhine River. It is a good day-trip destination from Zurich and Lake Constance.

For those who like hiking, you may hike for free along the right bank of the Rhine on paved routes through the forest to see the falls from a close-up. The Rhine Falls will definitely satisfy you with its beauty.

Photo Credit: Needpix

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Finding things to do in Paris is easy since it is filled with culture and history. However, since the city is so large, it may feel like you have to travel thirty minutes to get from one place to another. That is why it is important to know which monuments and buildings are near each other, so you can be as efficient as possible while making your vacation itinerary. Here is a list of things to do near the Eiffel Tower for your day in the South-West part of Paris.

Les Invalides

Just a few blocks away from the Eiffel Tower is Les Invalides. This complex array of buildings houses the museum of France’s Army, a Cathedral, the museum of the military’s history, and much more. Les Invalides has served many purposes throughout the years. In its earlier years, it served as a hospital and a home for veterans. Today, it mainly serves as the museum of war. Learn about Frances complicated past not only with outside countries but with its own people. You can even see the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte here. You can decide if he was really as short as history has deemed him to be.

Musée Rodin

Not far from Les Invalides is the museum that holds famous artwork of Auguste Rodin. Here you can explore the home of famous Parisian artist and wander through his beautiful garden. He is known for being one of the most brilliant sculptors and as you roam through the maintained grounds as you will be able to look upon his well-known sculptures including “The Thinker” and “The Kiss”. Not only will you be amazed by the detailed works of art, your time walking though the garden is also a worthy sight of its own.

Catacombs

The Paris Catacombs is a site where more than six million remains are held underground in a massive cemetery. After a major plague that affected the city, bodies were moved to these catacombs which are a connected to the Roman catacombs. The catacombs is a maze of different passages that weave in and out of one another underneath the feet of the bustling Parisian life.  Upon seeing the rows and rows of hand placed skeletons, you will begin to imagine the history and personalities of all the remains that you encounter.

Modern Art Museum

Palais de Tokyo is also just a short distance from the Eiffel Tower. At most, a ten-minute walk. Palais de Tokyo is one of Parisians many art museums. This beautifully built building is home to a large collection of modern and contemporary art. The exhibitions are truly fascinating and at nighttime the bar located in the museum is very lively and fun. This is both an remarkable place to check out during the day-time for the intellectual contribution to society as well as at nighttime when the mood shifts to a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.

Visiting Paris can feel overwhelming because of the wide variety of activities and sights that the city has to offer. Despite the possibility of attempting to see every inch of the city while on your trip, your visit to Paris will be much more enjoyable if you narrow down your search and visit the sights that are the best, more popular, and worth your time.

This article will help you to figure out where you want to go and what you want to visit on your next trip to Paris. We have selected the top 10 places to visit in Paris based on popularity, historical and cultural significance, and general intrigue.

1. The Eiffel Tower

If you go to Paris and don’t visit the Eiffel Tower, did you really visit Paris? The Eiffel Tower is a staple of Parisian aesthetic and is at the heart of what makes Paris, Paris. Whether you decide to go. Up to the top of the tower, or simply have a picnic in the grass below, you need to make time to visit the Eiffel Tower in order to fully experience the breathtaking architecture and cultural staple.

2. The Louvre

The Louvre is the most famous museum in France, not to mention its wide spread fame across the globe. Home to the Mona Lisa as well as many other historical works of art important to French culture, you could spend a full day wandering the many vast halls of the Louvre, admiring each and every painting and sculpture.

3. Notre Dame

The Notre Dame is another architectural statement of French aesthetic. With its fine detailed trims and extravagant window frames, this building is definitely a must see. You can approach the Notre Dame by walking alone the Seine and admiring the various book venders, eventually coming across the lavish building.

4. Seine River Cruise

Taking a relaxing cruise along the Seine is a great way to take in all of the top sights in Paris while chilling out and letting the boat take you along instead of walking for the majority of the day. Taking a cruise along the Seine will provide you with the chance to see places such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame from a different angle. You can also make sure to be on a cruise with a guide, how will point out all the historical sights and important information along the Seine.

5. Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin du Luxembourg is a must see when visiting Paris. This beautiful, expansive garden is an amazing place to have a peaceful exploration of the many paths and tree lines, not to mention the beautiful fountain located at the heart of the garden. Surrounded by nearby shopping places, entering the garden and sitting down for a while to admire the beauty of it is a great way to get a taste of Paris without have to over exert yourself.

6. Musée de l’Orangerie

The Musée de l’Orangerie is a great museum to visit if looking for a lowkey day activity in Paris. This museum is the perfect size, so one is able to explore the entirety of the museum is just a couple of hours. This museum is also home to Monet’s Water Lilly collection, which is an amazing series to experience in person, with the variety of colors and classic painting style of Monet available to see up close and personal.

7. The Catacombs

The Catacombs are an enticing Parisian destination. Home to over six million bodies, the Catacombs are filled with skulls and passageways, guaranteed to send shivers down your spine. After having been warned about the creepy vibe of the Catacombs, all those who wish to are encouraged to check out what is hidden beneath the ground level of Paris.

8. Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is a historical book shop located across from the Notre Dame along the Seine. This book store is a must see because the amazing aesthetic that the shop provides, for it is packed floor to ceiling with a wide variety of genres, organized efficiently yet chaotic in the sheer amount of books present. You will approach the entrance of the book store greeted by outdoor stands filled with used books, and maybe a busker will be performing nearby. You will then enter store and have the freedom to roam the rooms in search of a book that suits you.

9. Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is another great museum in Paris. This museum offers a multitude of different painting and works of art, not to mention the famous clock the sits adjacent from the museum café, a great spot for Instagram picture and aesthetically pleasing views. Musée d’Orsay is a must-see when in Paris, for its overall quality combined with the quantity of work that they have offers a great chance to see some of France’s most famous art pieces.

10. Saint Chapelle

Saint Chapelle is a stunning, vibrant chapel in Paris. This chapel is a must see because of the stunning stain glass window work, which is so incredibly detailed and colorful it will leave you speechless. Visiting Sainte Chapelle is a great way to get a sense of the care and skill put into France’s historical monuments, and you will appreciate the sheer beauty that surrounds you.

Credit: Wikipedia

We hope that you found this article helpful. When visiting Paris, it can feel like you are flooded with activities and sights to see. We think that these ten places should be at the top of your list in order for you to get the most out of your vacation to Paris.

There are so many places that you need to see in Paris. It’s difficult to have a set list of all the things you can’t miss. That being said, here is a list of some of my favorite things to do in Paris.

Eiffel Tower Lights

The lights of the Eiffel Tower cannot be missed. I love watching the Tower light up each night. I will never get tired of hearing everyone gasp at its beauty when the lights turn on. It is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. I especially love sitting near the Seine underneath a bridge near-by and watching it sparkle.

Musée d’Orsay

While everyone tries to go to the Louvre, I personally love the Musée d’Orsay. The collection of paintings is not quite as expansive as the Louvre’s, but there are hundreds of impressionist paintings which I usually enjoy the most. Check out the museum to see some of Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh’s most famous pieces.

Montmartre

This area is especially beautiful. Sacre Coeur is placed at the top of a very large hill in Montmartre and has one of the best views of Paris. The inside of the church is especially pretty and you will be astonished by its size. You can pay 7 euros to climb to the top of the dome where you will get the most beautiful panoramic view of the city. After, you must explore the area for great food. I had escargot for the first time in Montmartre, and it was absolutely delicious!

Tuileries Gardens

Whether you go in the Louvre or just look at it from the outside, it is an amazing building to behold. The sheer size of the museum is enough to overwhelm you, but you’ll never truly understand just how many works of art are located in the Louvre until you try to see the entire collection in one day. Spoiler alert: it can’t be done. You will definitely need more than one day if you are attempting to see the museum in its entirety. After seeing the Louvre, you have to walk through the Tuileries Gardens. The fountains, flowers, and statues scattered through the park are so beautiful. It is a great place to sit down with a good book and relax for a little while.

Versailles and Giverny

If you can fit a few day trips into your busy schedule, I would definitely suggest going to see Versailles and the gardens of Monet in Giverny. These destinations are on different scales, but both incredible. Versailles is a lavish palace that would make anyone wish they were a King. Giverny, on the other hand, is a modest village where Monet spent year of his life painting his beautiful garden. Both places were some of my favorite places that I have been to during my time in Paris.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

If you’re looking for a relaxing walk through a gorgeous park, make your way to the 19^th arrondissement. This park is one of the largest in Paris and is a great place to go for a Saturday morning picnic. Sit by the little lake and watch as the ducklings swim to the waterfall for the first time. The park is so big you could spend half the day just walking through it.

Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées 

Climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe is also a great way to see a beautiful view of the city. There are also reading materials to understand the history of the Arc, which is interesting to read when you go to visit. After going to the top, spend some time walking down the Champs-Élysées  to window shop (or shop shop). Take a break and stop at Ladurée to eat a few of their famous macarons!

The Markets

You can’t miss the markets if you are coming to Paris. The fresh produce is absolutely delicious and the flea markets are filled with interesting antiques and cool trinkets. Head to the north of Paris to Les Puces de Saint Ouen to explore the largest flea market in Paris. You are bound to find something special to bring home from your vacation.

Although Paris cannot be fully seen in one weekend, it is better to get to experience some of Paris rather than not seeing any Paris. There are a few places that you must go if you will only be in Paris for a short time. Here is an idea of what you could do to accomplish as much as possible in two days in Paris.

First Day

Morning – Rise and shine. Try to get up as early as possible to get a full day in Paris. The sunrise is absolutely beautiful in the city as it reflects off of the Seine and the light hugs the soft corners of the beautiful buildings and the monuments. Waking up early will be worth it, to see the city in all its glory before the majority of the people in the city are awake. Next, you will have to find a nearby market. Fresh fruits and vegetables are everywhere throughout the city, and purchasing produce from these local stands is the best possible decision. Many markets will also have vendors that are selling fresh bakery goods which would be a great start to your day.

Afternoon – After roaming the markets, you’ll want to head to a museum for when it opens. I recommend heading to Musée D’Orsay to view Monet’s collection and artwork from Degas and Van Gogh. Musée D’Orsay is not as large as the Louvre, and it is easier to appreciate the museum’s collections in an hour or two rather than a whole day. Following your museum visit, you can catch a quick lunch in the Latin Quarter, which is a famous neighborhood in Paris with many cafes. After lunch, check out the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore before heading to Sainte Chapelle and Notre Dame to view beautiful stain glassed windows and gothic architecture.

Night – At night, a Seine River Cruise is a must. Travel up and down the river as the sunsets is such a beautiful and peaceful experience. Most cruises also have food and drinks. It is also possible to plan a dinner cruise in the Seine for the full experience. After the boat ride, head to the Eiffel Tower to watch the monument light up every hour on the hour . It is so beautiful. I love hearing the collective gasp that happens when it first lights up.

Second Day

Morning – On the second day, you can sleep in a little bit since the day before was so busy. When you wake up though, grab a few bakery goods and fruits and head to a nearby park. Whether you go to Tuileries Gardens near the Louvre or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19^th arrondissement, you will be pleased with the beautiful greenery and flowers.

Afternoon – After breakfast, schedule a bike tour to explore the city even further. A tour guide will be able to tell you all kinds of insightful facts about the city that will stay with you for a lifetime. I remember my first bike tour in Paris when I was 12, and it is still one of my favorite memories of Paris.

Night – After the bike tour, find a nice sit-down restaurant to eat some delicious French food. A yummy crepe or macron for dessert could be the perfect way to end your trip to Paris. However, if you feel awake enough, you can never see the Eiffel Tower light up too many times. Go to the Champs de Mars once last time to see the beauty of the city come alive one last time.

For help booking this wonderful weekend, contact the expert travel agents at ParisByM who will help you with all your vacation needs.

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While museums are amazing, they can sometimes be a little bit stuffy. You can’t spend your ENTIRE vacation indoors. Everyone needs some Vitamin C. Luckily, Paris is one of the most beautiful cities especially during the summer. Here are some ideas of outdoor activities in Paris for when you need to escape.

Explore Paris

The great thing about Paris is the outdoors are just as packed with art and history as the museums. The statues and monuments that are scattered through the city are innumerable and the natural beauty of the city in the summer time is unbeatable. Paris is by far the best city for romantic strolls. Take a walk along the Seine and stop to get a drink by the river or explore the exquisite grounds of the parks. During my time in Paris, I have personally found that walking is the best way to see and understand the layout of city. With the confusing and winding streets, it is very easy to get lost, but as you walk the entirety of the city, you will be able to get a better idea of where everything is. Paris is such a large city that you will never be at a loss for a place to take a nice walk and discover areas that you have never come across before. Did you know the perimeter of Paris is 35 miles? Try walking all of that and get back to us on how long it took you! We’d love to know.

Take a Dip

In the hot summer sun, you may feel overheated as your walking through the city streets. Thankfully, there are plenty of pools scattered throughout the city. Outdoor swimming pools may be able to help you cool down and enjoy the warm weather while indoor pools are able to give you a break from the intense rays from the sun. These pools are a great way to let your family cool off while also admiring the city. You can also bring your younger kids to splash playgrounds around the city. The other day, I even saw a bunch of bouncy house water slides in the 19^th arrondissement where toddlers escaped the current heat wave. And just across the park, teens and young adults were jumping into the Canal de l’Ourcq. Some were even jumping from the bridge that hovered over the canal.

Roam through the Markets

If you came to Paris to shop, les puces are a must-do. Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest flea market in Paris. From small trinkets to fur coats, you can find hundreds of different souvenirs here to take home for your friends and for yourself. If you are looking for expensive brands, the flea markets are the place to go to try and fetch a bargain. Since there is such a variety, you will need to rummage through somethings to find your diamond in the rough. It will all be worth it when you find that treasure that you can bring home to remember Paris forever.

These are just a few ideas of what is possible to do in Paris outside. However, there are so many things that you and those who you are traveling with are able to do when you come to Paris. If you need more ideas for your trip to Paris, contact us to help you plan your itinerary perfectly tailored to your interests.

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Transportation in Paris

Paris is a hub for entertainment. The nightlife in Paris is indisputably world-class thanks to all the excitement happening in the city. If you are coming to Paris and would like to make sure you get the full experience, here are a few ideas for Paris performance that you can check out.

Cabaret

Paris is famous for Cabaret. In the 1880s, Paris’ first cabaret, Le Chat Noir, was a place for artists-dancers, musicians, writers, and poets-to come together and share their creative works. A few years later, the opening of the iconic Moulin Rouge ultimately changed the nature of the cabaret turning it into the cabaret into a show for large crowds where they could see dance, theatre, music and circus acts while being astounded by beautiful lights and costumes. Even today, the cabaret does not fail to entertain. Montmartre has a variety of performances each with unique identities for whatever kind of experience you may be looking for.

Fashion Show

While this idea might be slightly harder to accomplish, going to a fashion show in Paris is the ultimate dream. If there is any way for you to get a ticket, you can not say no. Some of the bigger fashion shows are pretty much impossible to attend, but maybe if you are lucky you will be able to weasel your way into a smaller, yet just as amazing, show.

Opera

Seeing an opera in one of Paris’ famous opera houses is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Some of the most talented performers and composers of all time have filled these spaces with beautiful, heart-wrenching performances. The ornate decorations and luxurious architectural design are reason enough to attend a performance at one of these beautiful opera houses. If Opera doesn’t interest you, there are many other concerts, ballets, and recitals that you may be able to attend. However, I would say you have to at least try to attend one opera in your lifetime. What a better place to do it than in Paris?

Comedy Show

Surprisingly, there are quite a few comedians interspersed throughout Parisian nightlife. These shows are especially great for tourists coming to Paris. Many comedians speak English and explain (make fun of) the French language. These shows are a great way to better understand the French language in a funny and entertaining way.

Garden Shows

On a much smaller scale, the music and lights that create the basis of the garden shows can be a beautiful performance to behold. Namely at the palaces, such as Versailles, you can witness the natural beauty of the gardens at night while they are being illuminated and complimented by an entertaining lights and music performance. View the gardens and the palace during the day and stay at night to witness this masterful presentation.

Movies

Going to see a movie on vacation doesn’t exactly scream “best idea ever,” but there are many options for you to immerse yourself further into French and Parisian culture by doing so. Many smaller theaters in the area have special events where you can see  popular French films with English subtitles. There are sometimes even discussions before or after the movie where you may have the chance to meet someone new to learn more about each other’s cultures. This could be a great learning experience and a fun way to learn more about the culture of Paris.

If you’ve ever been to Paris in the winter, you’ll know that it can be cold, rainy and even pretty miserable. The Eiffel Tower is beautiful but do you really want to stand in the pouring rain and lashing wind while on a walking tour or stand at the top of the Arc de Triomphe, freezing and unable to see anything?   We didn’t think so, and that’s why the team at Paris by M have compiled together a list of our favourite rainy-day activities in Paris so that you can stay warm and dry while enjoying the best sights and attractions that our city has to offer.

1. The Catacombs

The first on our list of rainy-day activities in Paris is something a bit different and potentially slightly unnerving.  The Catacombs in Paris were created when they ran out of space for the living, so they had to relocate the dead.  As you wander along the endless underground passages, previously used as stone mines, you will learn a bit about the history while being surrounded by the remains of more than six million people.  Perfectly sheltered, deep underground the city, this is an interesting activity which will keep you safe from the rain showers in the world above you.

2. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay

The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are second in our list of top 5 rainy-day activities in Paris and are sure to make for a rainy-day activity with something for everyone.  When the rain starts to pour, these two museums are obvious escapes from the miserable weather.  You can easily spend a day in the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay with their endless and enchanting collections of art and historical artifacts.  If you wish for something a bit more structured and informative, why not organize a private guided tour around one of the museums? ParisByM will be more than happy to help facilitate this rainy-day activity.

3. Shopping

Of course, when the rain pours down, a good choice of activity in Paris is to visit some of the best shopping locations in the city.  To begin Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché can easily take up a good part of your day, as you can wander around them for hours, admiring the beautiful items on sale.  There are cafes within and around both and the ambiance and experience in itself is enough to tempt you in from the rain.  If you’re a lover of shopping, Paris in the rain is the perfect opportunity.

4. Teatime

The rain is pouring and we think you deserve a well-earned repose in one of Paris’s finest tearooms or cafes.   Where better to shelter from the rain than in one of our most famous tearooms: Café Angelina.  Well-known for being one of Coco Chanel’s favorite spots in the city and renowned for its wondrously rich hot chocolate, Café Angelina is utterly self-indulgent and completely necessary for a rainy day in Paris.  Even if it stops raining, you won’t want to leave!  If you are after something a bit different, Fringe Café is extremely popular.  It intertwines the art of great coffee and delicious food with that of photography.  This provides a perfect hangout on a rainy-day in the city.

5. Covered passageways in Paris

Created in the 18th and 19th century, les passages couverts (covered passageways) were created around the area of the Les Grands Boulevard in Paris.  Since then they have provided a delightful selection of boutiques, cafes and, most importantly, a shelter from the rain. Like an old-fashioned shopping mall, these passageways provide an enchanting alternative to the high-street shops you are used to. One almost feels like they have stepped back in time. Passage des Panoramas is well-loved and Galerie Vivienne is extremely pretty and has a lovely café. A perfect hideout for a rainy-day in Paris.

As you can see, there are many things to do in Paris when you are seeking shelter from the rain. The final suggestion we have is that you grab an umbrella and explore the city because Paris is still beautiful, even in the rain.

Furthermore, ParisByM is here to help you organize your time in Paris, to make it as easy and stress-free as possible. We can organize your tickets for any exhibition or museum you wish to visit, arrange guided tours and restaurant recommendations and provide endless services and customer care while you are here. The options are infinite.  Please visit our website to check out our package and tailor-made holiday options.

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You wouldn’t want to visit Paris and not take the sneak peek of the city’s Market Tours. There’s more that awaits on a trip to Paris than sculptures and monuments. One of the best ways to discover a culture is through its culinary delights and flea markets. Paris is widely considered a top destination for gastronomes and flea markets from around the world. Paris continues receiving accolades for its food products and flea markets, which undoubtedly form a cornerstone of the French way of life.

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What to expect

Each district in Paris has its own weekly, bi-weekly, or quasi-daily market. Neatly stacked fruits and vegetables, bundles of carrots, ruffles of succulent butter lettuce, and baskets golden Chanterelle mushrooms will catch you off guard with the intrinsic beauty of French Fresh Produce. Visit to a fromager’s stall to view the delectable wares on display, such as artisan raw-milk cheeses so special they’re unavailable anywhere else in the world or take in charcuterie, homemade paté, and foie gras at the boucherie stand.

Food Market Tour

The Marche d’Aligre is just the perfect spot to explore typical Parisian market shopping experience.

The Aligre is an  open air market and is covered by Marche Beauvau markets, surrounded by flea-market stalls making it, a three in one market, and is  best place to get a real taste of the cosmopolitan nature of Paris. There are different types of stalls selling all sorts of products  from vintage and contemporary bits of crockery to clothes and last century’s gramophone players. Make sure you are not late or  you may miss out on the best things the market might have an offer on that particular day.

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For a Small-Group Marché d’Aligre Food Walking Tour in Paris,

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Traveling alone and want to take a market tour, we got you as well,

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Market Tours in Paris will take you to experience immense gourmet experience and discover some of the most famous Parisian food markets known for the quality of their products including Batignolles Market, Aligre Market, Montorgueil and Levis street. 

Small-Group Gourmet Food and Market Tour of the Bastille District in Paris

The Marché d’Aligre has an array of products from les fleurs (flour) to fruits, with variety of many other things. Has long history of serving its quartier (quarter)—the market was inaugurated in 1781— some even consider it le Second Ventre de Paris (Second Belly of Paris), based on Émile Zola’s famous novel, set around Les Halles, the enormous, busy central market of 19th Century Paris. Stroll through the maze of stalls, hand-picking seasonal produce. Explore how the market system works, food origins, and the core idea of terroir , or how Parisians go about shopping for their food and the consequences and significance of this on the French cuisine.

Flea Market Tours

The Dauphine market one of the 14 markets in the Saint-Ouen fleamarket – Credit: Wikipedia

Paris’ St-Ouen flea market, known as Marché aux Puces St-Ouen or Les Puces de St-Ouen, is one of the largest flea markets in the world. Discover an impressive vintage focused area with 14 different markets and more than 2000 shops and get a customized experience to help you get the best shopping in Paris. Depending on your needs, we will reach and explore in depth some of the following markets: Malassis, Dauphine, Vernaison, Biron, Paul Bert, Serpette and Jules Vallès. Explore, your knowledgeable guide will explain the history of the market, which dates back to 1885, while showing you many of the secret corners of the vibrant market.

Small-Group Paris Walking Tour: St-Ouen Flea Market

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Paris Private and Customized Vintage Shopping Tour at St Ouen Flea Market

 As you stroll through the market, have a throwback to a different era, learn all about know-how’s of bargain in the market: how to distinguish junk from genuine gems, where to go for the biggest discounts, and who sells what and where. Hear tales of famous celebrities like Sharon Stone and Madonna, who’ve been known to shop here, and learn about their favorite market shops at St-Ouen Flea Market: Bargain-Hunting Tour in Paris

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Bored to death of the same old ordinary paths, of touristic sightseeing and well-known landmarks? Thanks to the Catacombs, you will experience the thrill of underground haunted tunnels, along with the unusual  and breathtaking beauty of old Parisian skeletons.

The Catacombs are one of the most gruesome and macabre sights in Paris. Full of endless underground tunnels  packed with skulls and bones, they represent the solution for aesthetic and hygienic problems due to the overflowing cemeteries during the XVIII century.

Built in 1810, the Catacombs contain a great number of exhumed bones, which are stored in lines. A narrow stairway will lead you down 130 steps  to the tunnels, where you will have the opportunity to reach the barely illuminated and eerie tunnels. Then, you will have the unique chance to walk through the 1.5 km underground tunnel  where millions of skulls from Parisians lie. The tour takes around 45 minutes.

The catacombs have been very important during the WWII: there, since 1944, the Résistance used to meet and to plan attacks, far beyond  Nazi control. Interestingly, nowadays thorughout the catacombs you may also find thrill seeking cataphiles, who wander through the tunnels and look at the lines of skulls as if they were in a sort of amusement park: however, differently, if caught, they are fined!

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This labyrinth, which contains bones from the 11^th to the 19^th century, has been built following the examples of Rome and Naples. The abandoned quarries, now used to house skulls and bones, has been packed to create space for new districts after numerous complaints about the risk of infection for the inhabitants, caused by the old Cemetery of the Innocents (close to Saint-Eustache, in the area of Les Halles)

One of the most intriguing and interesting attractions in Paris, the Catacombs have been visited by famous people such as Napoleon III and the Emperor of Austria. Take a walk through the narrow tunnels and explore the underground area where the dead rest in peace and the thrill seekers look for excitement!

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HOW TO GET THERE

• Metro / RER B: Denfert-Rochereau
• Bus: 36, 68
• Parking: Boulevard Saint-Jacques

You will begin your walk at a green belle époque-style building in a grassy area in Avenue Colonel Henri Roi-Tanguy, close to Place Denfert Rochereau, in the 14^th arrondissement: you can easily go there by metro and get off at them station Denfert Rochereau. The official entrance is in the Museum of the Catacombs, since all of the other entrances were barred or walled up after a series of strange orgies in the 70s.

The exit is close to Rue Dumoncel (metro station: Mouton-Duvernet), 700 m southwest of Avenue Colonel Henri Roi-Tanguy.

OPENING HOURS

• From Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 8.30 PM (last admission 7.30 PM)
• Closed on Mondays, 1st May and 15th August.
• Groups from Tuesday to Friday, from 10:30 AM to 12 AM every 30 minutes.

PRICES (valid on the spot)

• Catacombs and exhibition: €10/12
• Coupled ticket Catacombs + Archaeological Crypt (15 min. from the Catacombs with Metro 4 “Cité”): €13/16

Reduced prices for youth and young adults (18-26), holders of the “Paris Pass Famille”, school teachers and librarians, large families and membres of several French societies.

Free admission for youth until 17, disabled and those who accompany them, job seekers and those who have an income support. Furthermore, the entrance is free for retired Paris employees, professional visual artists and curators, as well as ICOM and ICOMOS members, journalists and city of Rome inhabitants (Paris twin city).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Rent an audioguide to enjoy the full experience.
• Ideal time: early in the morning.
• Dress well! The temperature is cool, even in summer!
• Don’t forget to take a torch!
• The tour is not recommendable for people with heart or respiratory problems, for young children and people withe reduced mobility
• For safety reasons, no suitcases or luggages are allowed.
• Plan in advance your visit: before entering, you might have to wait for more than 40 minutes!
• No toilets or cloackroom available in the catacombs!

Don’t miss out this once-in-a-lifetime experience and enjoy the catacombs as soon as possible, before it’s too late…

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Your trip to Paris doesn’t have to be expensive! If you know where to look, you can find plenty of free activities in the city. Check out our favorite free things to do in Paris!

Credit: ParisByM

1) Stroll through a Parisian Park

Paris is home to some of the most spectacular parks in the world, and you can enjoy the majority of them for free! Popular green spaces include the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Champs de Mars, and the Tuileries where you can enjoy breathtaking views of some of Paris’s most iconic monuments. For the active individual, the Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes are enormous parks with plenty of running trails and gorgeous scenery. Here, you can find activities for the whole family, including a small farm at Bois de Vincennes and the botanical gardens of the Jardin des serres d’Auteil in the Bois de Boulogne.

2) Visit the Largest Cemetery in Paris

Credit: ParisByM

Come visit the final resting place of international legends, including Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde amidst the gorgeous sculptures of Père Lachaise. Paris’s largest cemetery, Père Lachaise is larger than the Vatican, with over 1 million recorded burials having taken place on the grounds. While a cemetery may sound like an odd place to visit, Père Lachaise really shouldn’t be missed. With its artistic vibe and historical relevance of those buried here, a visit to Père Lachaise is well-worth it. Definitely one of our favorite free things to do in Paris!

Credit: ParisByM

3) Enjoy a Free Church Concert

Paris offers a number of fantastic churches where you can enjoy a free performance. For the classical music lovers, you can experience the gorgeous acoustics of some of the most iconic churches at one of their free chamber music concerts. At Église de la Trinité, you can enjoy a free performance every Thursday followed by an informal meet-and-greet with the musicians. Every Sunday, experience a spectacular organ recital either at Notre Dame at 4:30pm or at Saint-Sulpice during the 10:30am mass.

4) Visit One of Paris’s Iconic Museums

Paris is home to over 300 museums and, on the first Sunday of the month, you can explore many of them for free! Crowd favorites such as the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou and lesser-known museums alike participate in this monthly event, so be sure to take advantage of it during your trip to Paris.

If your trip doesn’t happen to fall on the first Sunday of the month, don’t despair! Many museums are free or discounted all year round for visitors under 18, making a museum visit one of the best free things to do in Paris for families.

5) Become a Culinary Expert

Credit: Jacques Lameloise

The Féderation Française de Cuisine has partnered with the Mairie de Paris to offer free cooking classes with some of Paris’s most renowned chefs and culinary experts. Each class is themed and begins at a neighborhood market, where you’ll learn how to select high-quality ingredients for your specific type of cuisine before learning the art of French cooking!

Photo Credit: www.wikipedia.org

6) Enjoy a Wine Tasting

If you happen to be in Paris on a Saturday, head over to La Dernière Goutte for a free wine tasting! Expert wine makers from all over France frequent the shop, sharing their knowledge and expertise with participants. Truly something that should not be missed when in Paris!

7) Experience Art at the Centquatre

Credit: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra

This relatively new public space allows visitors to experience the best of Parisian art and innovation. Hosting a number of artists, festivals, public talks, and presentations, there’s always something going on! One Saturday a month, the venue hosts its Bal Pop’, a free public dance featuring all genres of music and dancing. If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris during this event, be sure to check this out!

Credit: flickr.com

8) Enjoy a Movie Under the Stars

Every summer, the Parc de la Villette transforms into a free outdoor cinema. Featuring a mix of classics and recent favorites that adhere to event’s annual theme, you’re sure to find a film that suits your tastes. Bring a blanket or rent a lawn chair and settle in for a night of cinematic moonlight magic!

9) Relax at the “Beach”

Credit: wikimedia.com

Every summer from mid-July to mid-August, the banks of the Seine transform into the Paris Plages, a man-made beach complete with sand, lawn chairs, and outdoor concerts. The Paris Plages are spread out around 3 locations: Louvre/Pont de Sully, Port de la Gare, and Bassin de la Villette. At Bassin de la Villette, rent one of the number of free books available as you lounge by the water sports complex or mini pool. You can enjoy the Paris Plage every day of the week from 9am to midnight.

Credit: ParisByM

If you’re looking for year-round activities, head over to the left bank where you’ll find the Berges de Seine. Stretching from the Pont de l’Alma to the Musée d’Orsay, this spectacular space features a number of free, fun activities perfect for the whole family. With plenty of relaxation space, playgrounds, sports areas, and restaurants centrally located in front of some of Paris’s most popular attractions, the Berges de Seine is a must-see when coming to Paris!

10) Dine for Free

Credit: ParisByM

While it may seem impossible, there are actually plenty of places in Paris where you can eat for free! Several restaurants and bars offer free couscous or mussels with chips or fries if you purchase a drink. Check out the map below to find our favorite places offering this option. Eating for free is definitely one of our favorite free things to do in Paris!

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Meet Jean.

Few days ago photographer Jean stopped by ParisByM Office to show work from his past Paris Photo shoot and stories at visiting Paris’ catacombs, climbing construction cranes, visiting abandoned buildings. Once into music, Jean is extremely passionate about photography, and once we started talking about his work, we could barely get him to stop.

What started as a hobby, Jean is now a natural, enthusiastic, talented photographer who loves to take Paris photo shoots. With a strong portfolio and training, he loves every bit of it, especially shooting photos of couples for romantic getaways and honeymoons.

One striking image from one of his projects is of a German couple in the Catacombs of Paris. (A place off the beaten path and amazing to take extraordinary pictures.) Of course we wanted to know: “How the heck did you do that?” The answer, of course, is simple.

“I have an inherent love to brave the forbidden and get-off the beaten path apart from Paris main attractions. Being a true Parisian at heart, I love to conduct Paris photo shoots where we can wander in less touristy neighborhood. with a  far-away view Of  Eiffel – to create a dramatic portraits, to capture the “real” Paris photo atmosphere. “

Perhaps one of the most surprising things about Jean’s method is that he pre-visualizes images before photo-shooting clients. He appreciates even more when people are open to variation. He constantly feels the urge to challenge himself to perform better than yesterday and update his knowledge and equipment, which is another aspect that he enjoys.

Jean knows his clients intimately, and says he adapts workflow depending on his client’s tastes. “I’ve noticed Asian couples tend to love catchy and saturated colors while taking pictures with the famous landmarks in their wedding dresses. American tourists often prefer more intimate settings and softer tones. Russian tourists love to focus on a few famous landmarks and have high standards on the beauty retouches”, he says.

A memorable Paris photo shoot is like having an extra special souvenir from your time in Paris. If you’re interested for a fun Paris Photo session against some of the city’s best backdrops contact us below.

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