TRICIA STEVENS
PERSPECTIVES
FRANCE
France is the largest country in Western Europe and home to one of the most recognizable structures in the world, the Eiffel Tower. It is also known for its fashion, art museums, wines, and cuisine. France is a city of romance and stunning architecture.
ABSOLUTE MUSTS
Montmartre
Elevated high above the outskirts of the city, the quaint art-filled streets of the Montmartre neighbourhood is the perfect place to wander. Its old village charm is filled with cobblestone streets, cafes, shops, and incredible street artists. Perched on the highest hill in the city (Butte Montmartre) is home to the beautiful white domed Roman Catholic church, Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
Paris Opera House
Today the Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House) is used mainly for ballet and has one of the most beautiful rooms in all of Paris (the Grand Foyer). The grand foyer is 59 feet high, 177 feet long, and 43 feet wide. Its ceiling represents different moments in the history of music. The auditorium can seat 1,979 people and is home to a bronze and crystal chandelier weighing seven-tons!
Saint Chapelle Cathedral
Built in the 13th Century, the Saint-Chapelle Cathedral is known for its enormously vibrant stained glass windows. At one time the cathedral housed a fragment of the cross, a nail, and the crown of thorns (these are however no longer found here anymore),
Palace of Versailles
Located in the city of Versailles, approximately one hour outside of Paris, is the former French royal residence known as the Palace of Versailles. The history of the Palace dates back to the 17th century when it was first used as a hunting lodge, then a seat of power, and then a museum. There are several parts to the Palace consisting of the gardens, the Park, the Trianon estate and several buildings in town. The estate spreads over 1,977 acres so exploring it’s impressive rooms and perfectly manicured gardens will be sure to fill your entire day. Don’t miss the most famous room in the Palace, The Hall of Mirrors, and allow plenty of time to enjoy the quaint Estate of Marie Antoinette, also known as the Queen’s Hamlet (highly recommended!).
Notre Dame Cathedral
This medieval catholic cathedral is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The church’s name (Notre Dame de Paris) means “Our Lady of Paris” in English. Climb the many stairs to the top of the cathedral for incredible views overlooking the picturesque streets below and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Get up close to the eerie gargoyles, which are said to keep evil forces away from the sacred walls that protect the church community, and stick around to listen to the incredible bells chime every 15 minutes throughout the day.
Paris Bridges
Paris provides a number of bridges to admire. A favourite, for good reason, is the Pont Alexandre III which is considered to be the most beautiful bridge in Paris. The bridge spans the Seine River and is known for being the most ornate and extravagant bridge in the city. Another favourite is the The Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Although this bridge is not the most beautiful, it is quite unique. The double decker bridge is a masterpiece of engineering and allows pedestrians and cars to cross on the lower level and the metro to cross on the upper level. It also offers some great views of the Eiffel Tower.
