Paris is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cultural cities in the world. Historians say that there have been inhabitants in the area since at least 8000 BC, the Romans established a town here and it became the capital of Clovis, King of the Franks in 508 AD. In the middle ages Paris became one of the most important cities in Europe, universities were established, beautiful churches were built, it was the centre of power for the French Kings and Queens. The creation of beautiful buildings continued through the centuries. The Rennaissance was a strong influence, and in the 18th and 19th centuries stunning mansions and public buildings were erected, Haussmann left his mark and even now contemporary buildings continue to impress.

It’s not surprising then that culture has long been important in Paris and it’s no different today. We all know of the big hitters like the Louvre, the world’s most visited museum and the Eiffel Tower, the world’s most visited monument. But there are loads of smaller, less well known and fabulous cultural venues in Paris.

Cool culture

Le Centre-Quatre – 104

This quirky cultural venue in located in a former funeral parlour. No, I’m not kidding, it really is. There are resident artists, a cinema, theatre, regular exhibitions and concerts. There’s a cool café and shops too. This is definitely one of the most hip cultural spots for Parisians. Details: www.104.fr

The Palais de Tokyo

One of the most trendy spaces in Paris for modern art and the largest contemporary art centre in Europe with a vast exhibition area. The Palais de Tokyo stays open until midnight so you can get your late night art fix. There are two restaurants, Grand Verres is chic and has an excellent menu, Monsieur Blue is fabulous, especially when the terrace is open with great views of the Eiffel Tower (May to September). And, there’s even a night club at the museum called The YoYo.

Set in a Baroque 17th-century hotel in the heart of the Marais district, this is home to the largest collection of Picasso’s masterpieces anywhere in the world. Read our review: Picasso Museum

Musée Grevin

Meet celebrities and historical characters from Katy Perry to Queen Marie-Antoinette! Of course they’re made from wax as the Musée Grevin is the Paris equivalent of London’s Madame Tussauds. It’s also where you’ll discover the Hall of Mirrors, created for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, it has real wow factor.

Art with a heart

Parisians love to visit the city’s smaller museums like L’Orangerie where you’ll find Monet’s famous Nymphéas (water lilies) murals. The greenhouse-like Orangerie was built in 1852 to provide shelter for the orange trees in the Tuileries gardens.

Also popular is the little-known to visitors Musée Marmottan, which has more Monet paintings than any other museum. The building is a former hunting lodge built for a duke in the early 19th century and is architecturally gorgeous.

Musée Rodin

A permanent collection by the great sculpture and artist Rodin is on display in this  stunning private mansion. Dating from the 18th century, Rodin lived and worked here for several years. As well as the sculptor’s masterpieces, several works by his mistress and troubled muse Camille Claudel are also on display. You can see some of his major works here including The Thinker. Not too far away Camille Claudel also has a museum dedicated to her work (opened 2017). Details: MuseeRodin

Musee de la Vie Romantique

The Musée de la Vie Romantique is located in the former home of the painter Ary Scheffer in the Pigalle area, built in 1830. The ground floor is devoted to George Sand, the writer who lived in Paris. Portraits, furniture and jewellery from the 18th and 19th centuries are on display. On the first floor, Ary Scheffer’s paintings are surrounded by contemporary works. Two annual temporary exhibitions are organized as well as concerts, readings and activities for children. In the museum’s garden, the seasonal tearoom, a real haven of peace open from March to October, is a great place to relax and recharge with a drink and snack. Read our review: The Museum of Romantic Life in Paris

Wheely Culture

Get your skates on any Friday night and head to the Tour Montparnasse and head to the viewing deck, 200m high for stunning 360 degree views over the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, join Parisians on a 27-kilometer-long path which starts at the base and takes you on roads that are closed to traffic through the city. It’s an unusual way to sightsee and very Paris!

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5 Free museums in Paris you shouldn’t miss
Off the beaten track things to see in Paris including an ancient alchemist house whose owner appeared in a Harry Potter book!

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Paris is often called the city of love and it’s true, there’s something about Paris that brings out the romantic in us. It could be the fabulous architecture and the thought of so much history passing. Or perhaps its the cobble stone streets, the winding little alleys, the gentle meandering of the river Seine. For some it’s the twinkle of the Eiffel Tower at night, the glow from shops and restaurants as dusk falls, the sound of the bells ringing at Notre Dame and the colours of the flower market. There are also plenty of bars and bistros where memories are made over a glass of something chilled – Paris has plenty of special places for lovers to while away the night.

Fun and fabulous

Le Perchoir bars, both in the Marais district (14 rue Crespin du Gast, 11th arrondissement) and on the rooftop of BHV (36 Rue de la Verrerie, 4th arrondissement) which  is open on Sundays. They make great cocktails and both venues offer great views over the city.

The Night Flight bar at the Hotel Bachaumont in the district of Montorgueil (18 rue Bachaumont, 2nd arrondissement) is classy and gorgeous. Developed by the Exercise Masters Experimental Group, it’s plus tones of velvet and black marble make this a wonderfully cosy bar, perfect for sinking into the comfy chairs and enjoying inspired and delicious elixirs in sumptuous luxury.

Very hipster and tres chic

The very hip and trendy Mama Shelter Bar at the Philippe Starck designed Mama Shelter Hotel (109 Rue de Bagnolet, 20th arrondissement), is popular with locals and always buzzing. Located between the artists’ studios, Père Lachaise cemetery which is surprisingly romantic for a wander, this part of Paris is known as the “Campagne à Paris” (countryside in Paris). Called “the best rooftop” in Paris in 2017 by Vogue magazine, it makes for a top quality venue to pamper your loved one with a glass of bubbles and views over the city to cherish. In summer months, you can also dine al fresco on the terrace where there’s a tranquil atmosphere and you can watch the stars as you swing in a hammock and enjoy this little bit of urban paradise.

A gorgeous garden in the middle of Paris

The upscale and very plush purple themed bar at the Hotel Les Jardins du Marais (74, rue Amelot, 11th arrondissement)  is alluring but it’s the gorgeous garden that really makes this a memorable place to enjoy a drink à deux. One of the largest private gardens in Paris, the Mediterranean colours and intimate courtyards with palm trees transport you to the romance of southern France.

More on romantic Paris

5 of the most romantic places to enjoy a kiss in Paris
Romantic Paris – what to do in a day…
Museum of romantic life
More things to do in Paris: Parisinfo; ukfrance.fr

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The other day I was waiting at Gare de Lyon in Paris to take a train to Burgundy (I know I have the best job, right?!)…

I had quite a bit of time to spare so, lugging my suitcase and camera bag I wandered outside the station. I decided to go no further than 10 minutes’ walk away to see what I could discover close to the station.

The Promenade Plantée Paris

Down a side road opposite the Gare du Lyon – I spotted what looked like an aqueduct and headed off towards it. Five minutes later I arrived at Avenue Dausmenil, at what is known as the Promenade Plantée, a planted walkway.

Once a railway line, begun in the mid 1800s, that ran above the streets of Paris it was left abandoned in 1969 as bigger trains were introduced and new lines laid. Someone had the idea to plant it up and turn it into a park in the sky. Genius. In fact, the celebrated Highline Park in Manhattan, New York was inspired by the Paris park, and I’m not surprised – it really is lovely. And even better, if you have a suitcase like me and don’t want to lug it up the stairs, there’s a lift.

I was there on an mellow and sunny Autumn day. The colours on the trees glowed gold, orange, red and yellow. A few people sat on benches eating their lunch, joggers passed me by as I trailed my suitcase along the smooth path.

Take a promenade in Paris

The Promenade Plantée is also known as the Coulée Verte. It winds through Paris for 4.5 km from Opera Bastille to Bois de Vincennes. The overhead cables of the train line which was built in 1859, have been replaced by the sprawling branches of an avenue of trees.

I didn’t have long to wander but I saw an outdoor gym, loads of places to sit and chill and secret squares. Helpful signs point out where you are en route so you can hop on and off the walkway at key points. My Paris friends tell me that you go through tunnels and there are even pools on the “line”. It’s strangely rural and quiet when you’re up on the Promenade Plantée. The sound of the traffic below is hushed, softened by the trees and plants. You have a unique view over the street and the shops, houses and apartments from your perch up to ten metres above road level.

Underneath the access point on Avenue Daumesnil near Gare de Lyon is the Viaduc des Arts. The former railway arches have been transformed into shops and showrooms for artisans. Here you’ll find chocolate makers, goldsmiths, glass blowers and umbrella makers, artists of all kinds and chic cafés. Most people strolling this street simply don’t look up to see that just above the arches is the narrow, meandering park.

Enjoy time out from the hubbub of Paris and take a walk on the wild side in the park in the sky!

More on Paris

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Rue Mouffetard the oldest street in Paris
Saint Ouen flea market
Take a walk on the wild side – the Petite Ceinture, another abandoned railway line bought to life…
Rue Cremieux – the colourful, picturesque street near the Gare de Lyon
5 off the beaten tourist track things to do in Paris

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Earnest faced angels with pale pink and blue wings and voluminous frocks hover over the six musicians on a tiny stage. Solemn faced saints look down from their lofty perches. Shadows flicker across stained glass windows and sculpted walls that have stood for centuries as the sweet sound of Bach fills the air. An enraptured audience breaks into spontaneous applause as the musicians finish.

This is a concert like no other…

A true taste of culture in Paris inside one of the most ancient of churches where Kings and Queens prayed and religious relics that cost fortunes were once housed – Sainte Chapelle is a legendary building that is now also an incredible night time music venue.

The history of Sainte-Chapelle

It is quite extraordinary to be sitting in this building on the Ile de la Cite where the medieval Kings of France once lived. It’s a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral which was begun before the creation of Sainte Chapelle but completed afterwards.

It’s said that Sainte Chapelle took just seven years to build and was consecrated on April 26th, 1248. Its purpose was to house relics which King Louis IX (1214-1270), also known as Saint Louis, had bought. They were said to include fragments of the Crown of Thorns and of the Holy Cross.

The Church of Sainte Chapelle is bijoux and quite stunningly beautiful. There are 15 windows, each 15 metres high, the stained-glass panes depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments recounting the history of the world until the arrival of the relics in Paris. An astonishing work of art that must have been one of the wonders of its time – it still is.

Music at Sainte Chapelle

You can visit Sainte Chapelle during the day and, when the sun shines through those awesome windows, it’s like standing in a diamond encrusted jewel box.

But, for a really magical experience, there are almost nightly classical music concerts held in this ancient place. This is one of the most beautiful, historic buildings of Paris and to sit here and listen to great classical music played by passionate musicians is quite simply an encounter to cherish.

Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach and other great composers have their music played here, the acoustics are magnificent and sends shivers up your spine – it’s a magical night out.

Virtual Visit to Sainte-Chapelle

Take a virtual visit and wander at will through this gorgeous building and ogle at the stained glass up close: Photojpl.com

Sainte-Chapelle, 8 Boulevard du Palais, Ile de la Cite, Paris

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It was the Romans who established vineyards in Paris more than a thousand years ago. Maybe it was the starting point for the vibrant French wine industry and culture that we know and love today.

A Vineyard in Paris

The earliest vineyards declined gradually as urban development progressed in Paris. The last of these Roman plantations disappeared during the wreckage that occurred during the invasion of Paris at the time of the Franco Prussian war around 1870.

There is though a vineyard right in the heart of Paris. It is all a bit of a secret actually. Few people know about it and few visitors take the trouble to find it. It lies just behind the Sacré-Cour Basilica on the west side of Montmartre and hides in its shadow. It is called the Clos Montmartre and was created in 1933. Find it in the 18^th arrondissement at the corner of rue des Saules and rue Saint Vincent.

It was established by officials of Montmartre City Hall. A commercial construction company had expressed an interest in building some houses on the vineyard’s present site. It was at the time a rubbish disposal location where tramps often stayed and the poorer children of the city played. The development was opposed by the local authorities. Under French law, it is prohibited to build on any vineyard site so the council decided to create one of their own on the waste tip. The wine would be produced commercially and the profits would be given to local charities.

The area is quite small, occupying just 1500 square metres. There are approximately 2000 vines vigorously growing even though as they grow on a north facing slope,  they do not receive the strongest sunlight. The Clos Montmartre is wonderfully tended and supports many wildflowers. It is a secured location but easily viewed by visitors from the surrounding pathways outside the protective fence. It is the only vineyard in Paris.

I went to try and find it for myself on a splendid sunny day. Some passing American tourists stopped and asked me where the vineyard was. They followed me to the vineyard and we were all impressed, taking photos and ooh’ing and ah’ing.

The buildings surrounding the vineyard are of older classic French architectural style and poise. The Maison Rose on the corner by the vineyard is famous for its good looks. There are some shops, cafes and museums close by and it makes for a lovely place to promenade.

The Wine Festival of Paris

There is an annual five day grape harvest festival in Montmartre each autumn: La Fete des Vendanges. Grapes are taken from the Clos Montmartre during this period to the local cellar at the Montmartre City Hall. Here they are pressed, fermented and bottled. The wine is sold locally in Paris and experts describe it as being of medium quality. There are about 1000 to 1500 bottles auctioned each year and they go for quite high prices to reflect their rather unique status. The profits given to local Parisian charities. The bottles are labelled ‘Clos Montmartre from the Cuvee de L’Amour’. They are surely a wonderful souvenir of Paris for visitors to take home with them.

A visit to the City vineyard, Clos Montmartre, makes a magnificent interlude – a great symbol of one of the mighty agricultural industries of France surrounded by classically distinct Parisian architecture and subtlety.

Bob Lyons is an ex pilot turned travel writer who loves France.

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Place du Tertre

Place du Tertre is a short walk from the Basilica Sacré-Coeur. It is here that many artists set up their easels and tempt passers-by with their works of art. It’s very touristy for sure, but it’s also very charming and somehow seems to retain an air of authenticity despite the crowds.

This area is pretty whatever the time of day or night, all year round and there are plenty of cafés to sit and watch the world go by. Some of the restaurants have live music at night which adds to the ambience and makes for a great night out.

Place de la Turlure

Take a break from the crowds in this little park behind the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. It’s a sweet place to rest your feet and get your breath back. There was once a windmill here, the Moulin de Turlure, hence the name.

Museum of Montmartre

Browse the artworks inside the house where artists such as Renoir, Susan Valadon and Maurice Utrillo once lived. It’s an eclectic and truly wonderful collection and the building has a charming and authentic feel to it. There are works by Toulouse-L’Autrec, Modigliani, Valadon and Utrillo. Plus there’s a room dedicated to the French can-can and a rare collection of zinc plates of dreamlike scenes from shadow theatre such as Le Chat Noir cabaret of the 19th century. Afterwards take a wander in the tranquil garden where Renoir’s swing will captivate you as will the view over the oldest vineyard in Paris and the famous Au Lapin Agile cabaret. It looks like a village house with its pretty wooden fence and pink walls and is where Picasso and Hemingway once enjoyed a show or two and, you still can to this day.

Rue Cortot

At the bottom of this leafy road in which the Museum of Montmartre sits alongside pretty villa style houses, you’ll find the much photographed Maison Rose. It’s a street with a village vibe and for me, represents a different side to the hilltop district that’s somehow gentler.

Sacré-Coeur

The church that looks like a wedding cake and glistens at the top of the hill is one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris. From the steps in front of it you’ll enjoy a panaromic view of the capital and if you have a head for heights and don’t mind shelling out a few Euros, you can climb to the top of the church for a 360° view from the dome.  Inside the church is the largest mosaic in France, 480m² across the colourful ceiling.

More on Montmartre

What to see and do in Montmartre
The artists of Montmartre
Baking bread in Montmartre
Montmartre wine festival

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You booked a trip in Paris and then it rains. But you shouldn’t worry that it will ruin your visit even though when you booked your ticket you probably thought the weather would be sunny!

Ten things to do in Paris when it rains

Paris weather is unpredictable and even in summer rain is not unusual. There’s plenty to do in this city of history, culture and art and here are 10 of my favourite things to do in Paris when it’s wet.

1. Visit department stores

Printemps, Galeries Lafayette, Le Bon Marche and Colette are not just about shopping; they have great cafés and architecture too!

2. Visit Museums

There are loads to choose from, don’t miss some of the  less known museum of Paris,  like Musée Galliera (fashion), Musée de la Mode et du Costume (fashion), Musée de Montmartre (arts) and La Maison du Victor Hugo. And, when you decide to visit La Maison de Victor Hugo, don’t forget to treat yourself afterwards to delicious pastries at Café Carette in Place des Vosges. The Orsay Museum is always great whatever the weather!

Check out 5 great free museums in Paris

3. Covered Passages

The shopping galleries of Paris are under cover and often utterly gorgeous like Passage Verdeau, Passage de Jouffroy, Passage des Panoramas (the oldest passage of Paris!), and Galeries Vivienne et Colbert.

4. Watch a movie

Buy the “Periscope” to see what movies you can enjoy in the little theaters of Paris, some of them are historic, quirky and quaint which really adds to your viewing pleasure!

5. Relax at a Cafe

Enjoy your drink and food and a good book or magazine. For example at Angelina’s with its lovely Belle Epoque decor and they serve delicious chocolat.

6. Enjoy the Arcades

The covered walkways of Paris streets are so charming, stroll the arcades of the Palais Royale and the rue de Rivoli for a memorable wander.

7. Find a flea market

The best in town are at the Marche aux puces de Saint-Ouen where you’ll find hundreds of places to browse for a bargain.

8. Glorious greenhouses

Visit the greenhouses in the Jardin des Plantes, where you can walk through a tropical atmosphere.

9. Bobbing along

Take a boat trip on the river Seine. Paris seen from the water is wonderful!

10. Wander…

Last but not least…Paris is beautiful when it rains. Buy an umbrella, take a stroll and enjoy the wonderful views.

By Darina Nykl who lives in Holland where she works in a hospital and is an author. She blogs about the stories she is writing which are mostly set in Amsterdam, Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur, places that inspire her: darinanykl.com

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If you only have a day or a weekend in Paris, you’ll want to make the most of your time and see the most iconic sites. I’m often asked for my tips for what to see when you only have a short window of time, so here are my top ten Paris visits – iconic but also authentic Paris. You probably won’t get round them all in a day, well unless you don’t sleep, but two days, it’s just about doable. Of course longer is better so you can take your time and really get to experience this great city.

1. Montmartre

This hilly area of Paris is a must see. This is where the famous street artists ply their trade in and around Place du Tertre and I recommend you wander all around the little streets, and gaze at Sacré-Coeur. Perch on the legendary steps of Montmartre for amazing views over the city. Read about the artists of Montmartre.

2. Musee d’Orsay

Much smaller than the Louvre, less queuing and this former railway station turned museum is truly beautiful with wonderful collections. If you go on a Tuesday lunchtime (October to April) you can listen to a concert and the ticket for the music covers entry to the museum too! Music at the Orsay.

3. A famous café

Yes a cliché but it has to be done! You could go for coffee at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore, not that far from the Musee d’Orsay. They are iconic (also known as expensive!) and you’ll have a memory to cherish.

4. Eiffel Tower

Of course! You can’t go to Paris without seeing the Iron Lady and, if you’re not scared of heights – head for the top. When dusk falls the tower it lit up and twinkles on the hour for 5 minutes inducing gasps from watching crowds! Tip, book your ticket online to save queuing.

5. Rue Mouffetard

Go here for the morning market and the echoes of the past and to follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway who lived there. Read more about ancient, beautiful rue Mouffetard.

6. The area around the Louvre

I love to walk from the rue de Rivoli and the Jardins de Tuileries in front of the Louvre to Notre Dame along the Seine with the second hand book sellers and the sites en route. You’ll pass streets that cry out to be explored, plenty of places to stop for a coffee break or hot chocolate at Angelina’s Tea Room in rue de Rivoli. This way you’ll really get a real feel for this picturesque part of the city.

7. Notre Dame and the flower market

Okay, two things here but they’re close to each other! Most people miss the flower market, they’re simply not aware it’s there but it’s just a stone’s throw from the famous church. It’s lovely at dusk with the bells ringing and the flower kiosks lit up, the perfect place for a hot chocolate break or an aperitif in one of the many cafés.

8. Shopping in Paris

If you like shopping, the Champs-Elysées is expensive but fun. I like to walk the length of the avenue admiring the posh shops and the dressed up shoppers then stop at the bottom at the Petit Palais for a cup of tea or coffee – it’s a free museum with gorgeous gardens! If you only have time for a couple of shops – make it Printemps for the shopping and the view from the roof top café and Galeries Lafayette for the shopping and the amazing glass dome. Read where to get the view sky line views in Paris

9. Palais Garnier

When it’s raining, and even if it’s not, a backstage tour of the Paris Opera House is always lovely and great fun to know you’re in the home of the Phantom of the Opera!

10. Latin Quarter

Eating out in Paris is a joy, there’s so much choice so how do you pick where to go, do you base it on location, fame, the quality of food, budget, some or of all them. Only you know that but for sheer can’t beat it uniquenes, it has to be Le Procope, the oldest café in the world. Past diners include Robespierre who held revolutionary meetings there, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon (who left his hat as a guarantee he would pay his bill). Le Procope opened in 1686, starter & main menu is about Euros 21.50. For looks, choice, history and fun – you can’t beat the Latin Quarter where some of the streets are a foodie paradise like rue Saint Severin and rue Galande,  you’ll thank me for this tip I promise you!

More on Paris
5 of the most romantic places to kiss in Paris
5 Brilliant free museums in Paris
5 off the beaten track things to see in Paris – including the medieval house of a Harry Potter character!
See Paris at night in this utterly ravishing video

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Paris, France needs little introduction as the cosmopolitan capital city of France, located in the north central part of the country. The City of Light is just waiting for you to amble through the side streets, duck into passageways and discover hidden treasures that will leave an indelible impression on your heart.

With so much to see and do in Paris, it can be overwhelming to know where the real treasures are hiding. Getting to know the secrets of this wonderful city can simply take a lifetime. We all travel with the anticipation of experiencing that perfect moment that transports us to another time. Sometimes those destinations are hiding in plain sight, like Le Train Bleu Paris…

Le Train Bleu

The quintessential interior of the Le Train Bleu restaurant is refreshed; to its time-honored perfection, restoring its luster and patina, once again. Modern, unobtrusive window treatments, have been installed so guests can gaze out onto Place Louis Armand, or sit discretely. The iconic cobalt blue color was been sprinkled throughout in the dining chairs and banquettes – with accents of brass studs, all mimicking the French night train color scheme.

The legendary Le Train Bleu logo – above the arch windows – now replicates the intricate scrollwork from the original radiator covers. Signature china plates reflect the new gold filigree logo, edged in turquoise blue, all setting the stage for a flawless romantic dinner.

A classical French restaurant with a fine 1900’s art museum – with the walls and ceiling portraying 41 European landscapes, in frescoes and paintings by the most prominent artists of the time: François Flameng, Henri Gervex, Gaston Casimir Saint-Pierre, and many others.

With the accoutrements of crown moldings, gold leaf gilding, and sparkling chandeliers, all restored and harmonized, Le Train Bleu is a masterpiece just waiting to enchant the world’s travelers. Visitors from around the globe stop in this legendary restaurant, to admire the splendor of a grande dame from a gilded age.

If you have an hour to spare between trains – this is the perfect refined break for ambiance and art in a graceful and refined setting. No ticket required.

Le Train Bleu, 1st floor, Gare de Lyon, Place Louis Armand

J.Christina is the blogger behind www.scribblesandsmiles.net. Blogging from the Midwest, J. Christina, and her husband, Mr. Christie, share their European trips so others can travel vicariously through their scribbles and images.

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Most museums are free in Paris on the first Sunday of the month (except during summer months when some of them charge) but there are few that are free all year round.  You may have to pay for access to temporary exhibitions but here are 5 great free museums in Paris that are well worth a visit.

Petit Palais

An architectural jewel of the 19^th century, this museum has a magnificent collection of paintings, graphics and etchings from antiquity to the 20^th century. Some of the greatest artists the world has known are featured from Monet and Renoir to Rembrandt and Cezanne.

Don’t miss the gorgeous gardens with mosaic lined pools and a lovely coffee shop. A stone’s throw from the Champs-Elysées, it feels like a tiny oasis of tranquillity.

Metro: Champs Elysees Clemenceau; Website: www.petitpalais.paris.fr

Carnavalet Museum

In the Marais area, just steps from the picturesque Place des Vosges with its mansions of the seventeenth century and houses from the Middle Ages. The Carnvalet museum is dedicated to the history of Paris, what it looked like before Baron Haussman reorganised the streets and the history of the world’s most popular city from prehistory to today. (Read our review of Musee Carnavalet).

Metro Bastille Saint-Paul or Chemin-Vert; Website www.carnavalet.paris.fr

Musée de la Vie Romantique

A museum in a charming mansion in the heart of the district known as “New Athens”. At the bottom of a tree-lined driveway, next to a flower garden, you will discover two ateliers covered with wisteria and surmounted by a canopy. This is where the Dutch painter Ary Scheffer welcomed Romantic artists of the early twentieth century. This is the neighbourhood of  Delacroix, Géricault and George Sand as well as Chopin and Liszt who would meet here at 16 rue Chaptal to exhibit their works and conduct readings. (Read our review of the Museum of Romantic Life)

Metro: Saint-Georges, Pigalle, Blanche, Liège; Website: www.vie-romantique.paris.fr/en

Victor Hugo’s House

Victor Hugo was 30 years old when he moved here with his wife and children. The writer remained there for 16 years on the second floor of the Hotel de Rohan-Guéménée Place des Vosges writing many major works including much of “Les Miserables.”

You can visit the rooms and see many personal belongings.

Metro Bastille Saint-Paul or Chemin-Vert; Website www.maisonsvictorhugo.paris.fr/en

Maison de Balzac

In the heart of the 16^th arrondissement is the home of one of France’s greatest writers – Honore de Balzac. Now a museum, you can see many of his personal belongings and visit the study where from 1840-1847 he wrote many novels.

Metro: Passy; Website: parismusees.paris.fr/en/balzacs-house

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