We have one and 1/2 days in Paris as a stopover on an trip to Spain. Is the best idea just to go to the concierge in the hotel and request a day long bus tour (English language) of the city? Or would you spend the time in one area (what's your favorite?) and hope to return in the future.
Paul

We had two days in Paris once and we just walked. We walked out of the hotel and headed to Notre Dame, from there to the Louvre, then across the river to the Left Bank and down the Blvd St Germain and wandered the small side streets. Stopping and eating whenever we felt like it.
I would stop for a rest on a seat in the Luxembour Gardens, one of my favorite spots. At the end of the day, as it grows dark, take a bateau mouche, give your feet a break and see the city from the water with all the lights on..sigh..I miss Paris~

Personally, I would not do the bus tour. The only thing I would get from the concierge would be a map and then I would walk the city. It is also easy to get around from one landmark to the other by metro.

Is this your first time in Paris? There are many experienced people on this site who have been to Paris many times and will each have a different opinions on what you should do.

I would see the big things...depending at the speed you want to go:
Eiffel Tower, Musee D'Orsay, Notre Dame, etc.

...and would recommend the "Top Ten" travel guide for Paris. That's great for planning a short stay.

Perhaps you could end the evening with a nice dinner and an evening boat tour to see all the monuments, and historic bridges lit up. Very romantic!

Good luck!

Scarlett,
I think we were thinking the same thing!!

I second Scarlett's take. (Scarlett rocks!)

I'd spend time in one area, but then I've been to Paris a few times.

The question is: what would *you* prefer, breadth or depth? If you're not sure when you'll return and want to see as much of Paris as possible, take a bus tour (especially if you can get on and off.) If you're pretty sure you'll return in the near future, then perhaps spend time in one area and explore the rest of the city when you come back.

if you prefer a tour, i would suggest the hop on/off batobus deal, though i'm not sure how much it is. like scarlett, however, i walk around. i've even found it a bit difficult to stop despite being hungry!

Thank you Flyboy!

I'd go with a two-day pass on L'Opentour.

Je vous en prie, madame. C'est certainment mon plaisir, bien sur.

The phrasebooks are working today! Mais oui! gt;

I would hire a guide for at least a half day. I met a young man last year who is an art student who gives wonderful tours and is very reasonable. He would allow you to make the best use of your short time. contact at [email protected]