VISITS AND VACATIONS NUM 2

Hello ladies and gents this is the viking telling you that today we are going to the beautiful city of

PARIS

Paris (French pronunciation: ​[paʁi] (About this soundlisten)) is the capital and most populous city of France, with an area of 105 square kilometres (41 square miles) and a population of 2,206,488. Since the 17th century, Paris has been one of Europe's major centres of finance, commerce, fashion, science, and the arts.

The city is a major rail, highway, and air-transport hub served by two international airports: Paris-Charles de Gaulle (the second busiest airport in Europe after London Heathrow Airport with 69.5 million passengers in 2017) and Paris-Orly. Opened in 1900, the city's subway system, the Paris Métro, serves 5.23 million passengers daily, and is the second busiest metro system in Europe after Moscow Metro. Gare du Nord is the 24th busiest railway station in the world, with 262 million passengers in 2015.

Spend a night al fresco at Rosa Bonheur

What is it? Parc des Buttes-Chaumont’s iconic bar.

Why go? What a pretty name for such a bucolic drinking spot, found inside a little house at Buttes-Chaumont’s highest point. Enjoy an apéro beneath the big trees, making the most of the last evening sun as well as the superb view. Don't miss the impressive selection of house wines and tapas.

Don't miss? Come during the summer when the park stays open all night – that's where the party’s at.

Peruse the bouquinistes along the Seine

What is it? One of Paris’ most classic cultural activities.

Why go? Selling thousands of imprints, there are over 200-second hand booksellers (bouquinistes) lining the banks of the Seine, continuing a tradition that harks back to the 16th century. The wide green makeshift bookshelves chained to the railings should definitely be made a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Don't miss? Pack a picnic to enjoy on the banks l'Île de la Cité, or a bottle of wine will do.

Admire the city from the third floor of the Eiffel Tower

What is it? An unmatchable view that is worth every dizzying moment of the ascent. 

Why go? Is Paris the world’s most beautiful city? You only have to stand on the third floor of the Eiffel Tower – with 360 views and a clear horizon of 65 kilometres in good weather – to know the answer. Check out Gustave Eiffel’s office and treat yourself to a drink at the champagne bar.

Don't miss? After getting your head back out of the clouds, head to Musée du Quai Branly to visit its unbeatable collection of tribal art.

Prices for a double room from 42 to 145 euros a night at peak times

We hope you like this post and as always have a chilled day from the viking.