Paris is an evergreen destination. No matter the time of year, no matter the decade, Paris will always be in fashion. In addition, according to websites like tovisitsocotra.com visiting these landmarks is one way that you can become a more well-rounded and mindful traveler, who is able to appreciate and immerse themselves within the culture further. But did you know that the Eiffel Tower now does a little light show at the top of every hour in the evenings? Or that the Champs Elysees goes “car-free” the first Sunday of every month? Enjoy discovering a few fun “new” facts about some of Paris’ most famous sites. See the City of Lights in a new way…
THE EIFFEL TOWER
The Eiffel Tower is an obvious must-visit attraction in Paris, you simply cannot visit the city and ignore it. Classic, iconic, and so Paris. Besides, it’s hard to ignore, the iconic tower is the signature piece of the city and you’ll find so many souvenirs from mugs to keyrings and sculptures (check out this video on Machining the Eiffel Tower to see how so many of these souvenirs are made!). But the tower isn’t just a spot to take photos or a design to take back home on a keyring, there are a few new additions that make the trip even more worthwhile. Be sure to head to the top of the Tower to see Gustave Eiffel’s office and swing by the Champagne Bar. Make a true date out of it and enjoy an incredible meal at the Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor. But if all else fails, enjoy the evening light show. At the top of every hour, The Eiffel Tower sparkles for 5 minutes.
CHAMPS ELYSEES
Arguably one of the most fashionable shopping streets in the world, the Champs Elysees is more than a retail destination. It is also historic and home to most parades and demonstrations in Paris. In an effort to reduce pollution, the government initiated “car-free Sundays.” The first Sunday of every month, this famous shopping avenue goes “car-free,” becoming a pedestrian-only experience one day every month. Interestingly enough, this event reportedly decreases smog by nearly 40% that day.
THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE
The Champs Elysees ends at the Arc de Triomphe,the near 200 year old monument built to honor those who fought for France, in particular, those who fought during the Napoleonic Wars. This is the site of both the Memorial Flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A destination for most visitors, oftentimes tourists might not realize you can actually go to the top of the Arc. Don’t let the busy round about deter you either. The actual entrance to the arc is via an underground tunnel.
MONTMARTRE AND SACRE COEUR
Montemartre is the highest point in Paris. This neighborhood, known for its white-domed basilica, Sacre Coeur, has been a haven for artists for decades. Dali, Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso all spent some time here. Today it’s a bustling destination full of tourists and locals selling various souvenirs. It is also home to the Espace Dali, the Lapin Agile, and the famous Moulin Rouge.
JARDIN DU LUXEMBOURG
The Luxembourg Gardens were created in 1612 by Queen Marie de Medici, inspired by the famous gardens in Florence. It is divided into two main gardens, a British and a French garden. There is also a pond, an orchard, and a huge fountain. Today it is a destination for families, hosting numerous events and activities from rides to games. Located near some of the most famous schools in Paris, it is also very popular among students.
There you have it. Who’s ready to go to Paris?