The Grande Arche: window on Paris

NATURE

September is one of the most pleasant months to visit Paris. The temperatures are still mild and the low-hanging sun casts a golden glow on the boulevards. The parks are especially beautiful at this time of the year. Even as the first leaves begin to change colour, the flower beds remain in full bloom and Parisians soak up the last few warm days.

CULINARY

Many Parisians prefer not to buy their vegetables, fruit and other fresh produce in the supermarket – and with good reason: the city has dozens of markets, which are often open several times a week. Freshly baked baguettes, juicy cherries and the best regional wines are all found here. And most sellers are happy to let you try their delicacies.

ROMANCE

The Seine runs through the heart of Paris. A walk along the river leads you past typically Parisian book stalls, busy artists and romantic parks, and its banks have served as the backdrop for countless movies. But it’s only from the many bridges that you truly experience the essence of this elegant river, the lifeblood of the city.

CULINARY

The great red awnings of La Coupole on the boulevard Montparnasse immediately catch the eye. At this ultimate Parisian brasserie, the oysters and seafood are in a class of their own, just like the extraordinary and varied clientele. This famous establishment was the place to be in the early twentieth century, and greats such as Dalí, Picasso and Man Ray were regularly spotted there.

CULINARY

Macarons in all the colours of the rainbow, gleaming raspberry tartlets and chocolate éclairs: your mouth is guaranteed to water just looking through the window of the average Parisian patisserie. Making pastries is a true art here – many pastry chefs train for two years before they get to practice their craft.

ROMANCE

Paris is one of Europe’s greenest capitals with striking parks such as Versailles and the Jardin des Tuileries. There are also many other hidden gardens nestled amidst the broad boulevards and ancient alleys: wonderful spots for a relaxed walk or a romantic picnic. You just need to know where to look.

ARTS & CULTURE

There are certainly worse things than getting lost in the narrow streets of the Marais. This ancient neighbourhood takes you back in time to medieval Paris. Many of the buildings now house art galleries and cosy cafes.

ARTS & CULTURE

Corridors, halls and galleries filled with the works of great masters: the Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world. To see the entire collection would take you at least a week. However, most visitors come mainly for the three famous ladies: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Nike of Samothrace.

ARTS & CULTURE

Notre-Dame de Paris is located in the middle of the city, on the Île de la Cité. As many as 14 million people step across the threshold every year to admire the cathedral from within. Those who brave the 387 steps to the top of the south tower are treated to stunning views of the city and the vast Seine, and come eye to eye with the famous gargoyles.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Eiffel Tower is the international symbol of Paris, France and romance. Gustave Eiffel designed it for the 1889 world’s fair, not knowing that it would become a global icon. Countless marriage proposals have taken place here. But it’s not just for lovebirds – around 7 million tourists visit the tower every year. They can use the lifts or stairs to reach the viewing platforms, where they are rewarded with an unparalleled view of Paris.

ARTS & CULTURE

Wide boulevards flanked by trees, stately buildings and wrought iron balconies. The monumental beauty of Paris as we know it today has largely been the work of Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann. Commissioned by Napoleon III in the 19th century, this urban architect designed a completely new street plan. In just 17 years, Paris was transformed from a medieval city to a modern capital.

ROMANCE

With its narrow thoroughfares, old street lanterns and breathtaking views, Montmartre is without doubt the most romantic area of Paris. Even climbing the stairs up to this neighbourhood on the hill has something magical about it. Welcome to the perfect spot for a walk, dinner or cosy night in a hotel.