SEE & DO
Fancy a tour with a Parisian - Free?
— This voluntary organisation of 'Paris Greeters' was set up to dispel the myth that Parisian are an unfriendly lot. You can book a 2-3 hour tour, its must be a group of up to 6 and its simply to show you 'their' Paris. Sounds too good to be true but what a great way to promote the city. See website for details.
www.parisgreeter.org
Guy Martin - Atelier
— OK These 2-3 hours French cooking workshops are in French but it could be a bit of a giggle. Learn from one of the Masters, after his restaurants, (Grand Vedour & Sensing), the books, the TV shows now your can discover a few little secrets from Guy Martin. Situated in a beautiful hotel particular building, we would be happy to organise a workshop for you if you cannot understand the site.
www.atelierguymartin.com
35 rue Miromesnil 75008 t: 01 42 66 33 33
Grand Palais
— This most famous Paris monument reopened in 2005 after an extensive 12 years of renovation. It is nothing less than one of the most majestical spots in Paris. There are several entrances, depending on which gallery or exhibition you wish to visit. Closed Tuesdays then daily 10am – 8pm (later Wednesdays) Closed 1 May.
M: Champs-Elysées or Clémenceau
www.grandpalais.fr
Avenue Franklin-D Roosevelt, 7th, 75008
Amélie at Café des Deux Moulins
— While this should probably be in our ‘EAT’ section, its a ‘must’ for all fans of the movie, Amélie. Many of Audrey Tautou's scenes working in the restaurant were filmed here. And now, thanks to thousands of tourists, the owner is thinking of retiring in St. Tropez.
I don’t think many locals go here but you will be served traditional french cuisine such as 'escalopes of veal in a cream sauce', 'beef filets' and 'calf’s liver' however you can also choose a hamburger with a glass of crisp chablis. Afterwards wonder the streets for more 'Amélie' sightings.
M : Blanche
www.xs4all.nl
15 rue Lepic t : 01 42 54 90 50
Le Mur des je t'aime
— This is wall is dedicated to all the different ways to say 'I Love you', over 300 languages and dialects are displayed on the tiled wall created by none other that a french composer of love songs, Frederic Baron.
Located behind the entry point to the metro Abbesses.
www.lesjetaime.com
Square des Abbesses, Montmartre 18th
Fresh Food Markets
— Anything about food can be found at this wonderful, popular site. If you're staying in an apartment and wish to cook, visit this site for a full list of markets across Paris and some great 'recettes'.
I've not visited all of them but there are some great markets at Saint Quentin every Sunday morning that attract Parisian from all arrondissements.
www.chocolateandzucchini.com
Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris
— Yes, of course you know to visit this most famous ‘église’ in the world but do you know when to go.
Why not during a world-class orchestra or choir? The acoustics are, well, heavenly! Plan your visit to get the most of this most magnificent church. You can either go with the crowds or be seated and take the time to admire the architecture, soaring ceilings, objects d’art and much more. See their website. If you can't translate, email we'll help you out.
8.30am Sunday mass
www.cathedraledeparis.com
Cimetière du Montparnasse
— The burial site of many famous French poets, politicians, singers and other renowned people such as Samuel Beckett, Man Ray. Pictured is the tomb of Honoré Champion an Editor in 1874 you can find the full list of deceased buried wikipedia. It is divided up into many divisions and there are many interesting headstones and many are visited daily such as Serge Gainsbourg. I don't have a website to recommend but this one has a great pics to five you an idea.
Metro: Edgar Quinet, or Raspail
www.parispassion.canalblog.com