Traveling to the iconic city of Paris is a dream for many. The City of Lights attracts tourists from all over the world due to its gleaming features, historical architecture and vibrant personality. There is no other city quite like it in the world.
France tours can cover a variety of different aspects of this metropolis. However, if you really want to get to know the city, consider exploring it one neighborhood at a time. Here are three key communities to check out:
1. Les Halles. Known as "the belly of Paris," is a grand shopping district and regarded as complex and confusing for many – even locals! However, due to bottlenecking traffic and hygiene issues due to crowds, the open market that was originally the center of the neighborhood has been altered. In its place, between the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th arrondissement is the new Les Halles, according to Trip Advisor. A number of pedestrian streets are lined by cafes, shops and restaurants.
2. Latin Quarter. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the City of Lights is located along the Seine. It contains more history and monuments than any other neighborhood in the city. Beautiful architecture, plentiful fountains and manicured green spaces such as the Luxembourg Gardens are some of its main attractions. The Latin Quarter also features the Notre Dame Cathedral, St. Chapelle and St. Etienne du Mont.
3. Montmartre. Those interested in exploring the sinfully delicious side of Paris nightlife may want to take a trip to the neighborhood of Montmartre. Visiting the community is a cultural excursion that will allow travelers to see the original Moulin Rouge, the heartland of Bohemia and a variety of street artists and performers, according to Lonely Planet.
