Let's get started in the quarter known as Ille de la Cite / Ille St-Louis. At the heart of Paris is Ille de la Cite. This island was the home of the original settlers in the Paris region. People have lived on this island since 300 BC. The city actually got its name from a tribe known as the Parissii. Today, it is most famous for being the location of Notre Dame Cathedral as well as the Palais de Justice (court). The neighboring island of Ille St-Louis is connected to Ille de la Cite by a small bridge and is home to a number of small restaurants and shops that are typically Parisian.

To the west is an area known as Marais and the Bastille. This quarter is famous because of his connection to the French Revolution. In fact, this is where it all started. Today the area is known for its great nightlife, museums and some of Paris's largest mansions.Look at some of the hotels in this area when you're planning your Paris France vacation.

The quarter of Beaubourg and Les Halles is a vibrant area alive with locals and tourists alike. For hundreds of years Les Halles was the central market in Paris. Many Parisians were upset when the market was demolished in the 1960s. Many people felt the heart of the city was destroyed. The area where the market used to operate is now an underground shopping complex. The main attraction of the quarter is the George Pompidou center which is a marvel of modern architecture. The center is home to the museum of modern art.

The Tuileries and Opera quarters is the traditional home of royalty and is characterized by majestic buildings and old gardens. At the heart of this section is the world famous Louvre. Originally the home of Charles V today is one of the world's most important and visited museums. The museums collection includes the Mona Lisa and the Venus to Milo as well as countless other pieces of priceless art. As you make your way to the East from the Louvre you'll come across place de la Concorde, which is where the Champs-Elysees begins. It is on the spot where thousands of people were executed including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The Paris Opera is another focal point in this quarter. Another great place to visit on your Paris France vacation.

The Champs-Elysees is one of the most famous streets in the world. The street is known for its high-end shopping and exudes wealth. Some of the finest restaurants in the best hotels in Paris are located in this area. The street comes to an end at the Arc de Triomphe that is located at Place Charles de Gaulle. The Arc de Triomphe was built by Napoleon as a national monument. At the base of the Arc is the tomb of the unknown soldier.

One of the world's best-known attractions is the Eiffel Tower.  Paris France vacations wouldn't be the same without a trip to the Eiffel Tower. Just about everyone who visits Paris visits the tower. The view from the top is spectacular and he gives you a chance to orient yourself in this large city. From the top see if you can pick out the location of the various quarters of the city. This area of Paris is also home to the Hotel des Invalides. This impressive building was built as a hospital to care for wounded soldiers in the 17th century. War veterans still use the facility today. It is also the last resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. His body is in a crypt at the center of the building beneath the dome.

One of my favorite areas of the city is the Latin Quarter. Also known as the left bank, this quarter of the city has the best feel to it. It is home to the Sorbonne. Most of the area is occupied by students and the whole place is bustling with activity. If you are budget conscious this is the best place to find a cheap meal. There are more restaurants and you can even count. As a matter fact, there are some well-known chefs who have set up shop here and offer really good meals at reasonable prices. It's only a short walk to Notre Dame so keep this area in mind either before or after you visit the church. I love this area for Paris France vacations

Montmarte is known as the home of painters and poets. Picasso and Salvador Dali use to live in this area. This is the highest area of the city and atop the mountain (mountain of the martyrs) is Sacré Coeur. Some people believe that the best view of the city is from the steps of Sacré Coeur. The church was built in the memory of soldiers killed during the Franco Prussian war. This quarter is also home to the Moulin Rouge. This area of Paris has a dark side. Most of the city sex shops and prostitution are found here.

Planning Paris France vacations is easier than you think. Don't be shy to try and do it yourself. Use the information that's provided and create a plan that meets your budget and needs. To find out more about the attractions in Paris click on the sidebar on the right (attractions).

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