The “City of Lights,” embodies a unique blend of history and modernity, offering travelers an enchanting journey through time. Paris captures the heart with its refined charm, world-class art and fashion, gourmet delights, and top-notch accommodations.
There are many captivating sights in the city that should be considered for any group itinerary. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of both the city and romance, stands tall amidst the Parisian skyline. Built in 1887 for the World’s Fair it is a popular attraction, offering breathtaking views and requisite photo opportunities. Nearby, the Louvre Museum houses an extraordinary collection of art, including the iconic Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, attracting art aficionados from around the globe. The Notre Dame Cathedral, with its Gothic grandeur, holds a special place in history. While it is still closed due to the 2019 fire, it is scheduled to re-open in December of 2024 so keep that in mind when planning the agenda.
Montmartre is a historic and charming neighborhood in the northern part of Paris. Famous for its bohemian past, it has been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians over the years. The area is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and vibrant arts scene. The iconic white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica perches atop the hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Montmartre’s artistic legacy is celebrated in its many art studios, galleries, and the historic cabaret, Moulin Rouge. Today, it remains a beloved destination, attracting visitors with its unique blend of culture, creativity, and old-world charm.
One of the most famous and iconic boulevards in Paris, Champs-Élysées Avenue stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Lined with luxury boutiques, theaters, and cafes, it is renowned for its high-end shopping and elegant atmosphere. Its historical significance and stunning tree-lined promenade make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of culture, fashion, and architectural grandeur at the heart of the French capital.
Cruising the Seine River is a delightful experience that offers a unique perspective of Paris’s iconic landmarks and enchanting scenery. As the river meanders through the heart of the city, passengers can marvel at the famous sights mentioned above. Daytime cruises provide a leisurely journey, while evening cruises offer a magical view of the city illuminated under the night sky. Depending on the size of the group and the type of event, there are different types of boats available for rental, ranging from small private yachts to larger cruise boats with dining and entertainment facilities.
When not exploring the city’s many museums, the group can take in unobstructed views from chauffeured vintage convertibles. Gastronomical tours and wine tastings are popular as are garden tours that show off the beauty of gardens and parks such as such as the Tuileries Garden and Luxembourg Gardens.
Paris is home to some of the world’s most luxurious and elegant hotels, offering high-end amenities, impeccable service, and stunning views. The city boasts five Travel + Leisure Top 100 hotels including Hotel Madame Reve, the Ritz Paris, Le Bristol Paris, Le Meurice and La Reserve Paris. Additionally, Rosewood, Dorchester Collection, Accor, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Marriott’s Autograph and Luxury Collections and LHW all have hotels in the city.
Hundreds of non-stop flights from the US and Europe take travelers to Paris. From the States, the shortest distance is from New York City with a flight time of just over 7 hours. From San Francisco, one can expect to be in the air for almost 11 hours. From London, the flight time is about one hour and twenty minutes.
Late spring and early fall are lovely times to visit Paris. The mild weather makes strolling along the Seine and outdoor sightseeing enjoyable. Spring offers blossoming flowers while autumn foliage adds a beautiful touch of color to the city’s parks and streets. Summer (June to August) can be quite busy with tourists, but it offers warm weather and numerous outdoor events, festivals, and activities. May and October temperatures are in the mid-60s F (high teens C), summer months are typically in the high 70s (mid 20s C) and winter month averages are in the high 40s (7-9 C).
No matter how many times one has been to Paris, the experience is always magical. The blend of history, culture, art, cuisine, and the city’s unique ambiance makes Paris a destination that continues to inspire and enthrall travelers from around the world and one that will always motivate.
Thanks to our partner in Paris: Metropolis DMC