Very few cities in Europe can compete with Paris

Very few cities in Europe can compete with Paris as a romantic destination; the river it straddles, the Seine, also has two islands, situated in the oldest part of the city. For most people visiting Paris, a short stay is often the way they first see the city; with a great deal to see and do that to really a week is needed.

A city famous for its fabulous architecture, good food, wine, street markets and galleries; the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre must not go unmentioned. Traveling around Paris is relatively easy for visitors as well as locals; the Metro underground system is easy to understand, efficient and reaches everywhere even the most enthusiastic tourist would want to visit.

You can't miss the Eiffel Tower, mainly because it's over three hundred meters high; it can be seen from any point within the city and the superb views just can't be matched by those looking at it from the ground. Illuminated in the evening, it is one of the most beautiful sights in the entire city; if you are really enthusiastic you can take a tour where the guide will tell you how this beautiful tower was built.

On your Paris trip ensure you add the famous Champs Elysees to your list of places to visit; it will present you with many famous designer shops and good restaurants. This avenue is well worth a visit to see how the wealthy live; the average tourist may find the accommodation expensive but more modest hotels can be found away from this area.

The world famous Louvre museum is in this city; it houses over three hundred thousand exhibits but not all of them are ever on display at the same time. A short stay in Paris only ever allows a small appreciation of what is on offer; with so many visitors (around eight million), sometimes it can be difficult seeing some of the famous works. What makes Paris special is the number of artists that have been attracted to this great capital; the likes of Monet, Picasso and many others lived in the city for years and some of their work can still be seen today.

Another famous Paris attraction is The Arc de Triomphe which was built within the first decade of the nineteenth century; engraved with the names of generals that commanded his troops, it has become a popular photo spot for tourists visiting Paris. It also features an observatory to take in surrounding views; including all the avenues of which it is a focal point.

You will not be at a loss for places to visit whilst in the city; these are however, the most popular with regular tours arranged, many of which are either free or at a subsidized cost. A Paris short stay vacation will probably be best suited as just a taster of the city; a longer break here will be necessary if you really want to experience everything this wonderful city has to offer.