ALEUNNA

Hello Fodors! I will be travelling to Paris with my mom, we have been several times before but this is the first time we go alone (my dad pass away a couple of years ago). She wanted to go back to Paris with him, but there was not enough time. Anyway, we are excited we can go and even when I know she will be somewhat sad I wish to make this trip memorable. We have done everything that can be done in Paris, what I am looking for is the special and hidden places, restaurants, views, experiences Paris have to offer.
Anything will be of great help. We are staying 7 days in September at St. Michel.
(My mom can no longer walk great distances or be standing for long time).
Thank your for your advice!

bilboburgler

"We have done everything that can be done in Paris, what I am looking for is the special and hidden places, restaurants, views, experiences Paris have to offer."

Hi, and your mum struggles with walking....

A couple of places you might like, the restaurant on the top of the Institute of the Arab World. The views are great and the food can be goos while the building is amazing.

In the same area the garden of the Botanic school is fine.

On the island the Memorial to the deportation matrys.

A day out to Rheims and some champagne houses?

denisea

A concert at Ste Chapelle? A glass of Champagne or tea at the newly reopened Ritz? Maybe dinner at Ciel de Paris for great views of Paris. I love the Petit Palais--small and easy to get in and out of...the courtyard in the center is a lovely place for coffee.

We really enjoyed Allard on our last visit...kind of a classic French restaurant. The sole menuiere (spelling?) was wonderful.

What places were special to you before?

hpeabody

A Seine river cruise on Vedettes du pont neuf http://vedettesdupontneuf.com/home/ it is not far from Place Saint Michel.

ira

Hi Ale,

The Musee de l'Orangerie, Musee Rodin, Musee Jacquemart-Andre, Musee Nissim de Camondo, Musee du quai Branly, Musee Carnavalet.

A day pass for the Batobus.

A visit to any Amorino gelato shop.

Have a nice visit.

Helsie

Picasso Museum has recently re-opened and is very good in nearby Marais not far from Place des Vosges.

frenchaucoeur

If your mother has problems walking, you might need to limit you museum going or at least focus it. The lovely Jacquemart-Andre is a small museum with a wonderful collection and a charming cafe with ceilings by Tiepolo.

Perhaps take a stroll on the quais of the Ile St Louis and then stop in the wonderfully sited cafe (I know, touristy, but heck) at the western tip right by the pedestrian bridge from the Ile de la Cite. For the price of a coffee or a bit of ice cream, you have the most magnificent view and the chance to people-watch as long as you like.

Another favorite pastime is the little cafe in the Luxembourg Gardens. It's not bad, the prices are okay, and you can sit there forever soaking in the atmosphere (OK, you'll have to--service is slow).

Enjoy your trip. The best of Paris is just being there--which you can certainly do with limited mobility.

Macross

Many older people take portable wheelchairs on the plane. They gate check them or check them with their luggage. Easy to fit in a cab.

fuzzbucket

Paris is difficult for those who cannot walk or stand for any period of time.
Rent a wheelchair, bring it with you to Paris.
You'll find everything will be much easier for both of you.

Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Paris, and this might be the best way for you to get around, at least sometimes.
The Metro is out - too many stairs.
Buses are slow and can be very crowded.
The HOHO bus is a good alternative, if sitting on the lower deck.

Also, have a look at this website, which explains what the challenges are for anyone with mobility issues and their companions.
http://www.sagetraveling.com/paris-accessible-travel