Visit Paris: Things to do in the City of Light


May 29, 2013

Affectionately known as the City of Lights, Paris attracts some of the world's biggest stars. The French capital is the go-to holiday destination for superstars including Beyonce and Jay-Z, Halle Berry, Gwyneth Paltrow and, of course, the Beckhams.Not to mention Kanye West, who currently spends most of his time there and often flies his pregnant girlfriend Kim Kardashian out to enjoy the romantic city.But Paris isn't all about celeb spotting – one of the world's most aesthetically pleasing cities, Paris' riches are unsurpassed. Whether you want to visit well-known sights such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, or explore the bohemian and arty side of the city that lies in the small streets, Paris has a wealth of things to offer.Not to mention some of the most beautiful hotels. The Paris Marriott Champs-Elysees lies at the heart of one of the most famous streets in the world and is the ideal location for those wanting to witness the beauty of Paris' famous monuments, including the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. It is also a short taxi ride away from the Eurostar, which offers a quick and easy link from London to the centre of Paris. Stepping inside the hotel, guests are welcomed with an oasis of tranquillity and luxury. Boasting 192 sumptuous rooms and suites and a stunning seven-story high lobby with a glass-domed roof, it offers exceptional service from kind and thoughtful staff amid a lavish backdrop.

The hotel's restaurant, aptly titled Le Restaurant, is a laid-back yet elegant establishment that offers exquisitely prepared French cuisine served by attentive and helpful waiters and seasoned with worldwide flavours by the talented chef Jeremy Touzelet (the truffle thin tart is one of the most wonderful starters).If you fancy leaving the hotel to eat, however, try walking ten minutes to the Marriott's sister hotel, the Renaissance Arc de Triomphe, whose restaurant Makassar offers a creative menu that fuses contemporary French cuisine with Indonesian flavour inspired by the global spice trades of the Makassar harbour. Friendly staff complete the wonderful experience, while the honey-marinated pork is a special to try.After trying out the luxury eating establishments, head to Trocadero to witness the Eiffel Tower at night. Top tip – try to arrive a few minutes before each hour, as it sparkles on the hour and is one of the most wonderful things to see in the city.

If you're looking for more alternative hotspots, visit the Musee Rodin. Displaying the work of French artist Auguste Rodin, it is set in a stunning mansion with vast gardens.Or the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookshop. Opened in 1951 by George Whitman, the premises, that includes sleeping facilities, is now run by George's daughter and is a focal point for literary culture in bohemian Paris.If you're lucky enough to get beautiful weather during your trip, check out Berthillon to cool down with an ice cream. Berthillon, located on Ile Saint-Louis, offers unusual flavours that make it a must-do in Paris.If you're on the hunt for a Parisian vintage find, try shopping in Le Marais, one of the city's most trendy and cosmopolitan parts. Little vintage boutiques are aplenty in the tiny cobbled streets of the area and Free'P'Star is one of the best.

How to get there: Eurostar

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