This is what is great about Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice Destination Awards, which honour those destinations voted by millions of tourists across the world. So when it comes to planning a school trip or weekend away as a couple, you can check out the winners of the places which lie fairly closer to home.

Eiffel tower, Paris, France by Derek Key

The leading travel site has already published its results for 2013, with some surprises as well as the popular destinations featuring at the higher end of the European list.   If you have decided to travel somewhere in Europe this year to get a closer look at its history, culture and learn something from the expedition, it would be worth taking a look at the top 25 destinations in Europe – with the winner no shock to most people.

Paris was not only the leading destination in Europe, but it also pipped New York to the highest global accolade too. London had many reasons to be pleased with itself, taking the second spot in the European honours. A spokesperson for the site, Angus Struthers, explained: “These awards honour the world’s best destinations as decided by those judges that really matter – travellers themselves.

Now that the Jubilympics are over it’s vital that UK tourism continues to flourish so it’s great news that London is rated so highly among the world’s and Europe’s best destinations.”   It was good to know that the English capital had so much to offer tourists to these shores, with events like the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games doing no harm in raising the country’s profile last year.

The top 10 for Europe also included the likes of Barcelona, Berlin and Prague, with Italian cities featuring quite heavily (Rome, Venice and Florence).

Old town square, Prague, The Czech Republic by Claire for Europe Explored

There is so much to learn about the nations around the UK, while a trip to one of these breath-taking cities is certainly affordable. Whether you choose to travel on your own, as a couple or as part of a larger group, you can decide on any of these places and not be disappointed.

See what makes France’s capital such an appealing destination for global travellers and enjoy the ideal Paris experience. Stroll along the Seine and take in famous attractions like the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, not forgetting to savour the fine exhibitions at the Louvre and explore the rich history of the place.

Alternatively, pick somewhere else on the list and find out why each country has its own distinctive charm and appeal to tourists. Use this guide as a starting point and explore Europe even further whatever your age or interests.

Christian Hewlett is a travel advisor who recommends packages for individuals and groups travelling throughout Europe and the rest of the world. For school trips he’d suggest you try speaking with the team at Encounters Europe.

The post Top European Destinations Recommended By Fellow Travellers appeared first on Europe Explored.

With so much to do, see, and explore; vacationing here with your family is a great way to have a trip you’ll remember forever. Here,  we look at 5 of the best family friendly vacations in Europe; perfect for those that love exploring, and those that love a little bit of relaxing:

1. Italian driving holiday

Road trips don’t have to be for college kids. In fact, you can take your family on a driving holiday and we promise there won’t be any cries of ‘Are we there yet?!’.

Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy by Rome Cabs

The Amalfi Coast in Italy provides one of the most romantic and breathtaking backdrops to a driving holiday, and is the perfect vacation for thrill seekers. Widely considered to be the most scenic stretch of Italian coastline, cruising down these winding roads can make anyone feel like a superstar.

You can stop off at some of the most whimsical hotel locations ever, sample delicious local cuisine, and bathe in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. It is recommended that you drive this coastal route during the peak of tourist season to get the best vacation possible.

2. Villa in Spain

If you’re still looking for a week of complete relaxation but want to avoid the crowds, why not hire a villa in Spain?

Forgot the main tourist areas, and explore off the beaten track; whilst still unwinding by the pool and spending time as a family. A villa break acts as a great base to explore from, and gives you the freedom and isolation you don’t get in a hotel.

Just be sure to hire a car, and explore some of the hidden areas Spain or the Spanish islands have to offer.

Villas in Spain (Santa Pola Life Resort, Alicante) / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

3. Camping in the Lake District

England has some of the most beautiful countryside in the world, and makes for a family friendly vacation spot with a twist. If you love being ‘at one’ with nature, and have a real adventurous spirit, you should consider a camping holiday in the Lake District.

This vacation will provide you with some real, quality ‘family time’; away from all the distractions of modern life. Hire some bicycles and go exploring; go fishing; and eat around the campfire.

There are a plethora of stunning locations to choose from, and so much to do in the Lake District; it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular destinations for people all around the world. You should also look into hiring a car and exploring the surrounding area too!

Red Pike, Lake District, England, UK by Phil and Pam

4. Euro Disney

Children of all ages love theme parks; and children of all ages love the magical world of Disney. So why not hop across the pond, and take your family to Euro Disney?

Situated in the romantic city of Paris; Euro Disney is a mini version of the Florida theme park but offers much the same experience. Your little ones can enjoy collecting signatures from their favourite characters, watch the spectacular shows, and ride some of the great rollercoaster’s.

Whilst over in France, be sure to head to all the sights such as the Eiffel Tower for a once-in-a-lifetime tourist experience.

Disneyland Paris, France by Randal Sheppard

5. Skiing in Austria

If active vacations are more your thing, why not consider going skiing in Austria? This kind of trip is ideal for families that want action and adventure; and not lounging around on the beach.

Whether you know how to ski or want to learn together, this is a great family-friendly vacation with a difference. There are a whole host of locations and slopes, suitable for all ability levels, and there is plenty to do when the skiing is over.

Austrian Alps by Edward Simpson

Europe is home to some wonderful locations for family friendly vacations. If you’re looking for a trip with a difference, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at what you discover.

Core Assets Fostering help vulnerable children to find a safe and happy home with a caring family. Find out more at www.coreassets.com/fostering

The post 5 of the Best Family Friendly Vacations in Europe appeared first on Europe Explored.

Today the green spaces in Paris are the equal of those in any European city. Many once-run-down industrial sites have been converted into parks and there is a wealth of more traditional parks that were constructed in 18th and 19th centuries.

Parc André Citroën, Paris, France by FaceMePLS

Parc André Citroën on the banks of the Seine was once occupied by the Citroën car factory. It covers 35 acres laid out in a modern style and in the centre is a concrete plateau surrounded by water jets which are computer controlled.

The Parc des Buttes Chaumont was once a quarry though it was converted into a park in the 1860s. The designer was Baron Haussman who was also responsible for much of the design of central Paris. There are lakes and waterfalls, sculptured hills and grottoes, and woodland from where you can enjoy great views of the city.

Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Paris, France by Ahmad Tarek

Two parks flank the city. These are the Bois de Boulogne to the west and the Bois de Vincennes to the east. In the former you will find vistas over the rolling countryside and you can enjoy activities such as cycling, horse-riding and boating on the various lakes, and the latter contains the Parc Zoologique de Paris, the beautiful Parc Floral de Paris and the Château de Vincennes which dates back to medieval times.

Bois de Boulogne, Paris, France by Olaf2

The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the most elegant of Paris parks. It combines attractive paths with green lawns, beautiful flowerbeds, and trees which surround the Luxembourg palace which was built in the 17th century. The Jardin des Tuileries with its tree-lined paths and ponds lies between the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre is similarly elegant.

Jardin du Luxembourg, Paris, France by Anna Fox

And finally, as evening falls, enjoy the fading light by taking a stroll along Canal Saint Martin and head to the Parc de la Villette where you can watch for free an outdoor movie projected onto a huge inflatable screen. Both English and French movies are shown and most people bring along a blanket or chair and basket with some cheese, bread and wine and share a communal picnic.

Walking is the best way to get round Paris, but to get so some of the more outlying regions you might prefer to travel by bus; busses in Paris are frequent and inexpensive.  And when it’s time to return from Paris to London you can reflect on all that time that you spent in the great outdoors

Byline: This is a guest post by Claire Chat a new Londoner, travel passionate and animal lover. She blogs about Pets and Travelling in Europe. If you want Claire to write you specific content, you can find email her here or contact her on Twitter (Claire_Chat).

The post Paris – The Great Outdoors appeared first on Europe Explored.

ChinaTown

When you visit the ChinaTown area of Paris you could be forgiven for feeling like you are thousands of miles from France! Everything you see is written in Chinese from street signs to shop fronts. The streets are filled with Chinese restaurants and delicatessens, Asian supermarkets, bric-a-brac stores and boutiques. There are also numerous Buddhist temples in the area. Everything in ChinaTown, which is found in the 13th Arrondissment neighbourhood of Paris, offers a taste of the Far East. The sights, the smells, the culture and of course the food! Few tourists even know of its existence, but it is easily accessible from the following Metro stops:

• Tolbiac
• Avenue de Choisy
• Rue de Tolbiac
• Avenue d’Ivry

Chinese New Year Parade in ChinaTown, Paris, France by Georges Seguin

Little India

I first discovered Little India the first time I travelled by bus to Paris. The area extends from Rue Faubourg-Saint Denis to Brady in the 10th Arrondissement neighbourhood. The air is fragrant with incenses and the aroma of various curries while the streets are vibrant with colour thanks to the stores selling beautiful saris in a rainbow of colours and patterns and golden Ganeshes. Little India is a must see area of the city and can be reached via Metro stopping at Château d’eau, Brady Passage or Rue Faubourg-siant Denis.

The African District

Paris also has a thriving African community which is  found in the 19th Arrondissement neighbourhood. The district is alive with African speciality dishes, traditional stores, African markets, material and clothing and even African hair salons and beauty parlours. I was  delighted to find authentic Caribbean restaurants and exotic grocery stores in the heart of Paris! When you visit Paris, hop on the Metro to Barbes-Rouchechouart Rue Goutte d’Or and you will not be disappointed.

Belleville

If you are in the mood for a much more eclectic taste of the many cultures that Paris has to offer, then you will want to head to the Belleville District in the 20th Arrondissement neighbourhood. This is Paris’s artists quarter an it plays home to a diverse range of cultures. This includes a second, and much smaller, ChinaTown as well as Greek, Jewish and Armenian communities. The Belleville stop.

Paris is a wonderfully exotic blend of cultures, and if you know where to look you will find a fantastic selection of authentic cooking, clothing and music from a wide range of cultures from across the globe. I highly recommend that everyone steps off of the beaten tourist track to experience at least one of these neighbourhoods during their stay in Paris.

Tim Baker is a passionate travel writer and loves travelling around the world, one of his best experience was travel bus in Europe and he believes that Paris and London are 2 of the most beautiful cities on the planet.

The post Another Side of Paris appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Patrick Nouhailler

Of course, there is nothing more symbolic of Paris than the Eiffel Tower.  If you are looking to create a romantic evening for you and that special someone, consider basing a dinner date and tour of Paris around the Eiffel Tower.

Dinner at the Eiffel Tower is an experience that no one will ever forget.  The tower boasts of two restaurants.  One is on the ground level and offers traditional French cuisine; plan ahead and make reservations because there is usually at least a two week wait.  The décor is eclectic, and the dress is somewhat formal.  Patrons should wear something nicer than jeans and trainers.

The second restaurant is located on the second level of the tower and is also a level higher in cost, atmosphere and attire than the ground floor restaurant.  Expect to pay a premium for everything from drinks to entrees.  However, if you are looking to create an unforgettable evening, it will be worth every penny.

The second level of the Eiffel Tower offers a view just as magnificent as the view from the top, yet you are protected from the strong winds and other elements that a visit to the top brings with it.  Not to mention, there is almost no wait to reach the second level, whereas the wait to attain the highest level can knock the romance out of the most elegant pair.  Therefore, visitors will not be missing out by staying closer to the ground.

Following your Eiffel Tower dinner, a lazy boat ride down the Seine will be the finishing touch to your night.  As the boat winds down the river, you will see locals dancing along the banks of the Seine as sumptuous music fills the air.  The dark river will stretch before you as you become ensconced in the atmosphere that is so uniquely Parisian.  As the boat winds back up toward the Eiffel Tower, the tower will erupt in lights that sparkle and twinkle before your eyes.  You will be breathless as you take in the symbol of love and romance that seems to light up just for you.

Nestling into the arms of someone you love will never feel as decadent as when you are gliding down the Seine on one of these Paris tours.  When your holiday is over, you can look back with joy and sigh, “We’ll always have Paris.”

View In-Seine-ly Romantic – A river cruise after dinner, Paris, France in a larger map

The post In-Seine-ly Romantic – A river cruise after dinner, Paris, France appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by agaw.dilim

The key to planning cheap city breaks, is to first identify what the major costs may be. These are normally to be found in transport, accommodation, and activities. By choosing the most economical way to go about each of these things, weekend city breaks anywhere in Europe become more affordable.

Airline Fares: Landing on the cheapest options

Depending on the destination, the cost of flights can quite often be the most expensive part of a weekend city break in Europe. There are several ways that one can go about reducing the cost though, and all that is needed is a little time and effort. The well-known budget airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet all have websites that can be browsed through, and from time to time, they also run worthwhile deals. Websites that compare the prices of different airlines can also be helpful in tracking down a cheap flight. Examples of such sites are skyscanner, Opodo, Expedia, Spa Travel, fare compare,etc.

Accommodation: Getting the best deals

After the flights, accommodation can be the next most expensive part when planning weekend city breaks in Europe. Fortunately, the internet can again be of assistance, and it is possible to both view and book hotels for a cheap city break in Paris online. Many hotels will offer some form of discount if staying more than two nights, and so the overall cost per person per night can be reduced.

Activities: Cheap and Cheerful things to do

The French capital has a wealth of things to see and do, and there are several ways to do this in the most economical way whilst not compromising on seeing the attractions themselves.

The first thing to do, is spend a little time in researching Paris, and visit those sites that are grouped together in order to avoid zig-zagging all over the city. Saving travel costs on taxis or other public transport goes a long way to make a cheap city break in Paris. Another idea is to pick the best day to see each attraction. Sundays in particular are a good time to see some places, as the Louvre is free one Sunday per month, and the Sunday organ recital at the Notre Dane Cathedral adds another dimension to the experience there. Paris also has many free museums, such as the Modern Art Museum, Fine Arts Museum and the Paris Fashion Museum. The Rodin Museum is also free on the first Sunday of every month.

Perhaps the most helpful piece of advice when planning cheap city breaks in Paris, or indeed any other city in Europe, is to be flexible. Whilst weekend city breaks might be the most desired choice, it is actually a lot less expensive to travel between Monday and Thursday than it is during the weekend. Early morning flights can also be cheaper than mid morning flights, and occasionally, leaving booking flights and hotels until the last minute can lead to price reductions.

Dave writes for Spa Travel an online travel agent dedicated to offering the cheapest Spa Breaks, flights, hotels and holiday packages for the UK outbound Traveller.

View How to Plan a Cheap City Break in Paris France in a larger map

The post How to Plan a Cheap City Break in Paris | France appeared first on Europe Explored.

Of all the continents, one of the most diverse and magical is Europe. But with approximately 50 countries, each with its own culture and personality, choosing a destination for adventure travel could take all your time. So outlined below are the top five Europe destinations with a few tips on how to make your trip extra memorable.

Paris

This exquisite city of love is the obvious first-choice tourist destination for Europe. The spectacular architecture, delectable food and wealth of cultural sites make Paris the ultimate European holiday destination.

There’s so much to do and see in Paris that it is impossible to exhaust the city in one trip. You can browse in a few couture shops on the Champs Elysees, share a meal in one of the city’s gourmet restaurants, gaze across the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower or simply watch a very chic world go by while enjoying a coffee in one of the many cafes.

Although the weather is at its best in Paris from June to August, this is also when the city is invaded by tourists and the price of holidays goes up.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by agaw.dilim

Barcelona

Second on our list is the historic city of Barcelona, which mixes its old-world authenticity with the wildly bizarre. This intriguingly eclectic city attracts all types of travellers – families, couples, lone explorers and culture vultures and those looking for adventure travel.

Barcelona has an overwhelming variety of things to do, although a lot of attention is given to Las Ramblas because of the quaint narrow streets and alleys crammed with busy restaurants and vibrant markets.

The food and wine in this city are extraordinary, consisting of large meaty dishes and lighter tapas and an abundance of wonderful seafood.

By far the best time to visit the city is May-June as the temperatures are a little too high for comfort in August and so the most of the city shuts down.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Volkanikz

Rome

The mythical city of Rome is a very close third in the list, with its historic architecture, spectacular food and sleek and stylish locals. The beautiful array of dazzling churches and inspiring museums and galleries mean there is plenty to see here, if of course you can drag yourself away from the numerous cafés and restaurants all offering mouth-watering treats. Be sure to try as many various flavours of the gelato as you possibly can! Although most tourists travel to Rome for the history, it is also a very fast-paced and modern city.

Photo by admin

London

One of the busiest modern cities in Europe, London beats with the lifeblood of countless generations. It was once said that no man could ever tire of London and this is true. By day, take your time strolling around Covent Garden or shopping on Oxford Street, visit the many galleries and museums and maybe have a picnic in Hyde Park or afternoon tea in the Dorchester. By night, head to Soho and sample the vibrant and slightly alternative nightlife!

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by edwin.11

Prague

Prague is a picturesque and magical city that has survived so many attacks upon it over the past 1100 years. Wander down the narrow streets and marvel at the churches, the statue-lined bridges and the daunting hilltop castle that make this a fairytale place. English isn’t always spoken language here, though, so keep a phrase book with you in case of emergencies.

Photo by admin

The post Five Great European Travel Destinations appeared first on Europe Explored.

Once you will be in Paris, you should visit the following top sights in Paris.

1.) The Eiffel tower

The Eiffel tower (French: La Tour Eiffel) is a symbol of Paris and a global icon of France. It is steel tower located on the Champ de Mars, in the walking distance from the river Seine.

The Eiffel tower was built between 1887 and 1889, it is 324 meters high (and its weight is approximately 10,000 tonnes). The tower was built to celebrate the French Revolution. Architect of the tower was Alexandre Gustave Eiffel – a French structural engineer who was also responsible for the design of the armature for the Statue of Liberty. The Eiffel Tower is, with about 6 million visitors per year, the world’s most visited attraction (2nd one is Empire State Building with more than 3.6 million visitors and the Tokyo Tower with 3 million. The tower was the highest structure in the world until Chrysler Building (319m) was completed in New York City. However, due to the addition in 1957 of the antenna, the tower is now taller than the Chrysler Building.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by joel kabahit

2.) Arc de Triomphe

At the end of Champs-Élysées there is Arc de Triomphe – one of the most famous monuments in Paris, which is in the middle of large road junction Place Charles de Gaulle. It was built in 1806-1808 followed the model of Arch of Constantine in Rome. It honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars.

There is a statue of horse at the top of the monument which is extracted from St. Marco in Venice. The names of the generals who were in charge of French forces under Napoleon, was included in the Arc. It is decorated with many reliefs which commemorate the Battle of the emperor. The best known is the product of volunteers in 1972, also known as La Marseillaise. A Number of shields are situated at the top of the monument in which the names of the successful battles of Napoleon are embossed.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Konstantinos Dafalias

3.) The Louvre

The Louvre is the largest palace complex in the world, the most important public building in Paris and one of the richest and most visited art galleries of the world. The Louvre is one of the landmarks of Paris. It is located on the right bank of the river Seine, between the street of Rivoli and the famous Place de la Concorde. The building is memorable not only for its origins and its architecture, but especially for a rare collections of art which contains. Together with other monuments on the banks of the Seine, it is under the protection of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Mariana Schwab

4.) Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world and it is also the most famous Gothic cathedral in Paris. Its construction was ordered by Bishop Maurice de Sully in 1163 and lasted for 182 years during which about 160,000 workers participated on its completion. Notre Dame Cathedral is located on the island of Ile de la Cité.

In addition to a number of valuable works of art, there is also one rare treasure. It is the organ with nearly 8000 pipes. The job as organist at Notre Dame Cathedral is considered the most prestigious job in France at all.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Oh Paris

View Notre Dame Cathedral on the Larger Map

5.) Musée d’Orsay

One of the most beautiful and most visited museums of Paris – Musée d’Orsay, is located on the left bank of the River Seine. Every year thousands of tourists come to admire one of the most comprehensive collections of impressionist works in the world.

Like the famous Eiffel Tower, the building which now houses a museum, was built during the World Exhibition in Paris in 1890. The expected high attendance was a good excuse for the emergence of a new station, which was at that time the very first electrified railway station in the world. In the Musée d’Orsay there are primarily works from the 19th century.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Carles Tomás Martí

6.) The Sorbonne and the Latin Quarter

Sorbonne is a monumental complex in the Latin Quarter of Paris. It is a part of the University of Paris which is France’s oldest university established around the year of 1160. It is therefore one of the first universities in Europe.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Rudi Riet

7.) Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is located at the summit of the highest point in the city – Montmartre, so this snow-white building is practically visible from almost any place in Paris. Similar to Notre Dame it is the combination of two different styles, the Romanesque and Byzantine.

View Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris on the Larger Map

8.) Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Paris, located in the eastern part of the city. It is also one of the world’s most famous and most-visited cemeteries. The name originated from the name of Father François d’Aix de Lachaise, who lived in the Jesuit house rebuilt in 1682 on the site of the chapel. The cemetery was declared a national monument on 26 June 1993. There are about 70,000 graves, and includes around 5300 trees.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Olivier Bruchez

9.) Champs-Elysées

Champs-Élysées, also known as the Avenue of the Elysian Fields, is one of the most famous boulevards in Paris. It is sometimes referred as the most famous avenue in the world. It is flanked by prestige and luxury shops. Champs-Élysées is probably the most photogenic part of Paris, and one of the most expensive in the world – for the shop with an area 100m2 you would pay approximately $ 1,500,000 per year.

The street is surrounded with the best Paris hotels (such as the Hôtel de Crillon), restaurants (Fouquet’s), or shops.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Cayetano

10.) Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is the largest square and also the heart of Paris. It belongs to the most beautiful squares in the world. In the middle of the square there is a huge obelisk, which is decorated with several fountains and statues symbolizing big French cities. Place de la Concorde was built in honor of King Louis XV. designed by the architect Jacques-Ange Gabriel. Its construction began in 1754 and was completed in 1763.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by ChrisYunker

11.) Jardin du Luxembourg

Luxembourg Gardens are the second largest (after Le Bois de Boulogne park) and probably the most popular public park in Paris. Luxembourg Palace, which is located here, is a home to the French Senate. There are lots of chairs available for visitors to sit and relax. Some parts of the grass are directly reserved for the rest, so you can spread the blanket here or just lie down. You can listen to the live music here as well. If you are looking for the perfect place to relax after many kilometers walking through Paris, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the right place.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Anna Fox

12.) Panthéon

Pantheon (Panthéon de Paris) is a historic building in Paris’ Latin Quarter. In the underground crypt are retained major French artists, thinkers and scholars such as Alexandre Dumas senior, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Pierre Curie and Marie Curie-Sklodowska as the only woman.

The building stands on the site of the basilica, that was built in the 6th century and dedicated to the saint patron of the city – St. Genevieve. The church was during the French Revolution transformed into a sanctuary and in 1806 back to the church. In 1885 the museum was founded here.

Pantheon is considered one of the most important architectural achievements of its time and the first great neoclassical monument

View Panthéon de Paris on the Larger Map

13.) Jardin des Tuileries

Jardin des Tuileries is one of the most popular and oldest public gardens in Paris. The biggest mall of Paris covers an area of ​​approximately 28 hectares. It is an ideal place to relax in the city center and ideal place to escape after sightseeing.

Jardin des Tuileries is located between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Edwin Lee

14.) Pont Neuf

Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Paris. It is situated in the historic centre, on the River Seine. Its construction began in 1578 and was completed in the 1607. Thus it became the first bridge in Paris that connected the two shores of the island Cité. Its name Pont Neuf, which means “New Bridge”, was derived from the fact that it was the first stone bridge in the city. There were also constructed walkways on the bridge, the first ever in Paris. Since 1889, the bridge is a national historic monument. A major reconstruction of the bridge was completed in 2007.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jean-François Gornet

View Top sights to see in Paris – France in a larger map

The post Top sights to see in Paris | France appeared first on Europe Explored.

Eiffel Tower Slobozia is 54 meters high tower, which is an exact, smaller copy of the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is a part of a private tourist complex built by Romanian billionaire. In the complex there is also a replica of the famous ranch from the series “Dallas”.

Eiffel Tower Slobozia provides a pleasant view over the surrounding countryside. At night the tower is illuminated.

View The Eiffel Tower in Romania – exact 54m smaller copy of the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris in a larger map

The post The Eiffel Tower in Romania – exact 54m smaller copy of the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris appeared first on Europe Explored.

Chaillot Palace complex with its gardens and the Champs de Mars are among the most original architectural works of the early 20th century.

Palais de Chaillot is a monumental building that replaced the old Trocadero Palace. It consists of two wings of a length of 80 m, which are directed towards the Seine river from where you can enjoy beautiful view of the Champs de Mars. The complex was constructed for the occasion of the World Exhibition in 1937. It was designed in classicizing “moderne” style by architects Louis-Hippolyte Boileau, Jacques Carlu and Léon Azema. Today it houses museums, theater and other cultural institutions.

Palais de Chaillot as seen from Eiffel Tower, Paris, France by Yoshi

There are two museums in Palais de Chaillot – left part:

• Musée de l’Homme (Museum of Man) contains a rich anthropological collection to familiarize with all the human races and their way of life. In the paleontological department you can see the skeletal findings, Venus of Lespugue carved from mammoth tusk (late Stone Age 15 000-10 000 years BC) and other neolithic monuments. The museum is open daily except Tuesdays and public holidays from 9.45 to 17.15. Admission is €7.
• Musée de la Marine (Maritime Museum, open daily except Tuesdays from 10.00 to 18.00) shows the history of seafaring, technology and developments in shipping. The exhibition includes the models of famous ships, the need for sailors, etc. Admission is €10.

On the right side of the Palais de Chaillot there are:

• Musée des Monuments Français (Museum of French monuments, open daily except Tuesdays and public holidays from 9.45 to 12.30 and from 14.00 to 17.15). It is dedicated to superior French monumental art in the form of castings and the life-size reproductions. Exhibits are divided according to regions, schools and eras, making it possible to monitor the development of styles and themes.
• Musée du Cinéma Henri Langlois (Museum of Cinema, guided tours daily except Tuesdays at 10.00, 11.00, 14.00, 15.00 and 16.00, visit lasts 1.5 hours) – the history of world cinema is demonstrated in almost 60 halls. There are e.g. Reynaud’s optical theater built in 1888, Edison’s Kinetoscope (1894), the device of Lumiere brothers, movie posters, a giant photo, the famous decorations, costumes, etc. Admission is €7-8.
• A large theater Théâtre National de Chaillot with the hall for up to 1,200 visitors.

Place du Trocadéro et du 11-Novembre lies west of the Chaillot Palace and is dominated by a statue of Marshal Foch.

Jardins du Trocadéro (Chaillot Palace Gardens) are pleasant especially during hot summer days, it refreshes the large pool flanked by bronze statues. An interesting spectacle brings many fountains, and especially at night when they are imaginatively lit.

Champ-de-Mars – a large park covers area between the Seine and the military school. Originally a military training ground for high military school was opened to the public in 1780.

Champ de Mars as seen from Eiffel Tower, Paris, France by Olivier Bruchez

Cimetière de Passy from 1850 – Here are the tombs of famous French people (Debussy, Tristan Bernard, Fernandel, etc.).

École Militaire – The military school was founded in 1773 on the initiative of Madame de Pompadour, and was intended for boys from poor families, who received military training there. The building is closed to the public.

Palais de l’UNESCO – The modern building of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Hotel des Invalides – It forms one of the most monumental complexes in Paris

The post What to see in Paris – around Eiffel Tower | France appeared first on Europe Explored.