Even among those who travel extensively, Paris is often a favorite place to visit. A city of art and culture, it’s filled with beautiful monuments and historical treasures, making it the ultimate destination for a dreamy weekend away.
From the famed Eiffel Tower to the incredible relics tucked away in the Louvre, there are so many spots to visit that it’s hard to fit them into the space of a few short days, which makes a pre-prepared itinerary a must.
Here are three of the most interesting and historically important places to include.
Musee de Louvre
PHOTO CREDIT | Image by Cuong DUONG Viet from Pixabay
For those with an interest in art and history, the Louvre is a place of dreams. As one of the foremost museums in the world, its rooms are filled with ancient treasures, from Egyptian mummies through to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa.
Holding over 35,000 relics from across the globe, you’ll find every period throughout Paris’ long history covered here, their stories told in intricate and immersive detail. Even the building itself is a renowned monument, having begun its life as a medieval fortress, before becoming a palace, public gallery, and finally museum.
Les Catacombes
Those with an interest in the occult and supernatural have many ways to indulge their hobby. Some choose to commune with those who are gone, using websites like TheCircle to enjoy a psychic chat with lost loved ones; others go on organized ghost trips or visit monuments with an eerie history of ghostly happenings.
For those who fall into the latter category, one Parisian place that must not be missed is the city’s catacombs. Lying concealed beneath the streets, this network of bone-filled tunnels stretches for over 3,000 kilometers. Accessed via a series of steep steps that descend down into the darkness, it’s the final resting place for over six million people. Not only is the setting spine-chilling in and of itself, but it’s reportedly haunted by many of the ghosts of its long-dead residents too.
Notre Dame Cathedral
For fans of Disney and/or the works of Victor Hugo, Notre Dame Cathedral – the famous setting of the Hunchback of Notre Dame – is another wonderful and historically rich place to visit. Soaring upward against the skyline, this incredible gothic structure was first constructed in 1163. Famed the world over for its stunning stained glass windows, grand scale, and exquisite architectural features, it’s sure to leave you spellbound. Built to honor the Virgin Mary, it’s also home to one of the most famous holy relics in existence: the ancient Crown of Thorns. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s well worth a visit.
Ancient, beautiful, and known for its many fantastic landmarks, Paris is a city that every ardent traveler should see at least once in their lifetime. Filled with cultural treasures to sate even the most discerning palate, it’s a true wonderland of art and history. Should you be lucky enough to visit, be sure to take full advantage of every second you spend among its quaint cobbled streets and soaring buildings.
