Most Sought after Paris landmarks
 

I plan on visiting Paris for a day or two, and was wondering what are the best spots to see in such a short period of time?

Have you ever seen a picture of Paris? A movie that took place there? It is hard to imagine that most people wouldn't be aware of what they want to see in such a short time in Paris.<BR>The most logical things are the Eiffel Tower, the Arch de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the Seine. A day or two doesn't allow a lot of time, but if you want a museum, most would go to the Louvre, although the more manageable D'Orsay would get my vote instead for such a short visit. And I suppose any first time visitor would want to see the Champs Elysees, one of the most famous (and in my humble opionion overrated) streets in the world.

Hi <BR>if you go elsewhere here at fodors.com you will find lots of basic info on Paris including I believe suggestions for what to see.<BR>You will want a map to help plot out your routes.

What other people seek out is irrelevant if it doesn't interest you. A guidebook is a worthwhile investment, even for a short visit. And information here and on frommers.com would be a useful way to narrow things down - one or both even contain suggested itineraries based on how much time you have.

I've done some homework for you. Here are some threads you can check in the text search. I'm sure there are many more.<BR>&gt;Two days only in Paris:What shall we do???<BR>&gt;Paris-Help with itinerary!<BR>&gt;How can I make the most of my 2 days in Paris<BR>&gt;Paris in 3 days

Right here, on the Destinations section of this very site, is a suggested itinerary for 3 days in Paris:<BR><BR>http://fodors.com/miniguides/mgresults.cfm?destination=paris@117&amp;cur_sectio n=fea&amp;feature=30002<BR><BR>If you have less time, you'll obviously have to pick and choose.

I spent 4 days in Paris and was able to cram in almost everything. My favorite spots were the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower &amp; Notre Dame. The Versailles gardens was also a favorite, but it is a full day trip.

With two days, if you are thinking of seeing the Louvre, I would recommend the Musee d'Orsay instead. And have a wonderful lunch in their main dining room there.<BR><BR>With one day, I would not recommend either. Some might recommend the Rodin museum, because it is much more digestible.<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex<BR>

with 2 days in Paris I wouldn't take the time it requires to eat in the restaurant a the d'orsay. Eat in the cafeteria (great view) and spend more time in the galleries. Contrary to what you often hear, the 1st floors are equally worth visiting as the impressionist gallery

One of my favorites is St. Chappelle. Its stained glass windows are fabulous in the sunlight, and concerts are held some evenings. It is easy walking distance from Notre Dame.

Don't overlook the bridges of Paris. Pont Alexandre and Pont Neuf. <BR>Having said that, one of the coolest spots I've been to is the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Really great view of the Champs Elysees as well as the rest of the city. At night, if you have time, swing by and see it lit up. <BR><BR>Cheers!

Don't forget Montmartre. True, It's touristy and don't let anyone convince you to do their portrait,(I have a number of them m yself...none of which looks like me!) but the former artist's quarter is vibrant and full of French ambience. On a clear day, Sacre Coeur will afford a spectacular view of Paris. Ride the funiculaire up if the climb is daunting. I believe you can catch it at Rue D'Abesses metro... I think! A metro map will mark it for you.<BR><BR>A small Salvador Dali Museum is on one of the side streets that you could wander through within an hour. I found it fascinating! There's a crepe place right on Place du Tertre which my kids adored. Again, the ambience of the crooked, winding cobblestoned streets and artists with their easels in the square (Place du Tertre) can carry the imagination back to a colorful and bohemian time! It's always one of my stops! Have fun!

With that short a time, I would highly recommed getting a carte musee. You can purchase it at any of the major museums (i.e., Louvre, d'Orsay, Invalides) for 1 or 3 days. It covers your admission at these (and many other) museums and sights (including Ste-Chapelle, which is one of my favorites) and will allow you to avoid waiting in any lines.