Paris 2010

Best and worst sights, experiences and destinations:

Best: Paris city walk & Louve
Why: Used the book along with the listening downloads. What a great idea. Thanks Steve.

Worst: Rue Cler
Why: On Sunday and Mondays, this area is DEAD. If I were to visit again that included Sunday and Monday, I might have stayed elsewhere instead of Hotel Beauncy. Although I liked the hotel.

Bill in Buena Park, CA USA 11/15/2009

Best: Eiffel Tower, the Metro,Hemmingway locations
Why: We were on our honeymoon and spent two weeks just in Paris in September...the tower was beautiful especially at night and a great reference point. I had waited 50 years to see the sites of the "lost generation". Overwheming. Loved everything about the experience.

Worst: Being hustled by the north africans and romainians
Why: Most of the "ring on the ground" scams are just annoying but going up the steps to the Sacre Coeur the "ring bracelet" people were both very agressive and extremely rude to tourists especially young women. Taking the tram up the stairs is an option for those not wanting to run the guantlet. Definately worth the trip up though. Unlike most of the main tourist areas there seemed little security or police presence.

Charlie Galan in Nanaimo, BC Canada 11/13/2009

Best: Rick's walks
Why: By following Rick's guided walks, we were able to see much more than we would have otherwise done. The Museum pass is a 'must'. We bought the 4 day pass and used it extensively. It saved us huge amounts of time by quickly entering the various sights as well as saving financially.

Art / Karyn Lougheed in Markham, On Canada 11/01/2009

Best: Bus #69
Why: Since I never take buses in the U.S., it never occurred to me to take the buses in Paris as opposed to the Metro, and I've been to Paris several times. Thank you for recommending Bus #69 for sightseeing. I then started taking the buses everywhere in Paris, and only took the metro once, to Arc de Defense. Your recommmendation made my trip a fantastic experience. Thank you!

evelyn in dallas, tx USA 10/30/2009

Best: Honfleur - Hoel Monet
Why: Big clean room and bathroom, very nice people. Loved the cuteness of Honfleur and Hotel Monet

Worst: Hotel Grand Leveque
Why: Worst hotel the whole trip. So suprised because highly recommended. Dingy, filthy carpet, dark . We went with rec to stay in back to avoid noise. Horrible view and smelly. Rip off of 14 euros to book shuttle. After we paid 40 E for two to get to airport at 6:15 am I found out I could have called direct a shuttle co and saved the commission.

Diana Hoover in Irvine, CA USA 10/11/2009

Best: public transit passes and bus 69
Why: We loved just riding the buses around town, meeting locals and seeing different neighborhoods. This bus route got us to major sights at different times of day and replaced the usual "hop on/off" tour for us in this city.

Worst: bus schedules
Why: I don't know if it's possible, but it would have been helpful to know when the buses stopped running. We got stranded, but the taxi was affordable, so we got home okay.

Laralyn Sasaki in Columbus, OH USA 10/09/2009

Best: Marmottan-Monet Museum
Why: A nice little museum that is a pleasant stroll through a park from a Metro station. It's just a little bit off the beaten tourist path (but not too much).... which was a welcome rest after the madness of the Louvre and Orsay.

Rob R. in Alexandria, VA USA 10/08/2009

Best: the Palace at Luxembourg Gardens
Why: Palaces normally closed to the public were opened last weekend (Sept 19 &20). The French have a term for what the weekend was called but it escapes me as to what it was named. We were unaware that this was going on until the pastor mentioned it at the American Church on Sunday. Who says good thing don't happen when you go to church.

Worst: the RER
Why: Our party of five (5) got separated on the way into Paris City from CDG. We were burdened with suitcases and just couldn't get everyone in the train in time (there was a worker right there, saw everything and did nothing but laugh when the doors closed leaving four in the train and one on the platform). We were reunited at the next station when the four in the train got out and the one on the platform hopped on the next train. Lesson-Have a plan if you get separated at the station!

furnacefighter in Philadelphia, PA USA 09/26/2009

Worst: Golden Air Shuttle
Why: We had a harrowing experience with Golden Air Shuttle going to CDG airport. The brake pads on the van were shot--it was metal on metal every time he braked. The driver frequently used the emergency brake instead. He got lost finding the last group to pickup, and to make up time, went the wrong way up a one way street. When another driver pointed this out, he got into an argument with him. It's one thing to be unprofessional, but quite another to drive dangerously with a van full of passengers.

Debbie Salisbury in San Diego, CA USA 09/26/2009

Best: Rouen
Why: Rouen makes for a wonderful day trip out of Paris! We loved the half-timbered buildings as well as the cathedral. Rick, add this city to your guidebook!

Dawn in St. Paul, MN USA 09/19/2009

Best: Versailles side trip
Why: Versailles: Great tip on getting the tickets at the TI- no lines what so ever. (The TI is located going to the right out of the train station and then going a half block up and turning the corner to the left, which is the way to get to the palace.

Mark in Shoreline, Wa USA 09/18/2009

Best: Versailles guided tour
Why: We decided to take the English speaking guided tour and are so glad we did. We were given a good histories of the Palace and of the royalty who lived there and were taken to rooms not open to the general public. The tour was very small (about 20 people or so) so we could ask lots of questions and receive personal attention. I don't think we would have enjoyed Versailles nearly as much had we only taken the general tour.

Kathryn Totah in Pacifica, CA USA 09/10/2009

Best: evening cruises
Why: As I said, I lead a study abroad trip. College students can become oddly reticent when they don't speak the language. The cruise leaving from Pont Neuf is a favorite for all of us, relaxing, fun, great photos and informative. we have dinner at Le Deux Magots after.

Sandra Williams in Lincoln, NE USA 09/09/2009

Best: #69 Bus in Paris
Why: Fabulous, cost-effective way to view Paris.

Worst: Rue Cler (August visit)
Why: Only disappointing because it was August around 15:00. I will return there during a busier season as I can imagine how wonderful it will be, but would recommend skipping it during the annual August vacation since about 50% of the shops were closed.

Holly Rosenblum in Norwich, VT USA 08/12/2009

Best: The Maps
Why: I had 3 guide book maps. My first visit to Paris. Your map was divided into the districts which was incredibly helpful.

Worst: Access Paris....which you gave credit to as being a good resource
Why: Incorrect times. Incorrect maps. Incorrect recommendations. One of the restaurants they said was elegant, exquisite, etc....was the worst we have ever visited in our entire life of traveling. Huge...huge...mistake. Filthy.....food smelled, trash....bad experience.

Terri Bonner in Little Rock, AR USA 08/02/2009

Best: Marais walking tour
Why: We were in Paris a total of 6 days and tried a few of Rick's walks (Historic Paris, Montmartre, Left Bank and Marais), and this was by far our favorite. Unlike the Montmartre tour, there's very little backtracking. There's a good variety of stuff to see (Jim Morrison's apartment to mansions from the reign of Henri IV to the Jewish Quarter). We got lost in Mona Lisait, absolutely loved it. Lunch at L'As du Falafel was simply perfect, best falafel sandwich I've had (recommended by Lenny Kravitz, how can you go wrong?). We ended up spending quite a bit of time at the Memorial de la Shoah - what a profoundly moving experience. We've been to the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC, which was also very powerful, but this small museum so individualized the impact the Holocaust had on people in that area and in other areas of France that it really put the Holocaust in a whole new perspective for me. Very worthwhile experience.

Colleen Earls in Vancouver, WA USA 07/29/2009

Best: Louvre "Surviving the Louvre"
Why: My 3 nieces and I followed your guideon p. 104 to a "T" and it saved me tons of money by not hiring an English speaking guide for "Highlights of the Louvre" Thank you!

sandie carpenter in WHITEFISH, MT USA 07/27/2009

Best: The #69 bus and the Paris Museum pass
Why: We would thoroughly recommend the #69 bus which we often used as it was so convenient from our hotel in the rue Cler area. We loved the Paris Museum pass which saved time lining up for tickets, but there were still long line ups to get through security at St Chapelle and Musee d'Orsay.

Anne Ayre in Bowen Island, BC Canada 07/19/2009

Best: Luxembourg Gardens
Why: relaxing, free, fun to watch people

Worst: Ed's Grocery store
Why: Chaos.

Eddie Mikell in Charlottesville, VA USA 07/15/2009

Best: Versailles Gardens
Why: Endless, beautifully maintained, easy to find quiet areas

Worst: San Chapelle
Why: Long line for security at the only entrance, overpriced for what you see

Victor & Pam in Mundelein, IL USA 07/15/2009

Best: Rue Cler
Why: If your hotel in is the area, Rue Cler is invaluable. It's quintessentially Parisian, perfect for a quick meal or for a relaxing coffee break. We ate at the cafes some nights and on other nights we shopped for a picnic. It's perfect!

Alaina in Scarsdale, NY USA 07/12/2009

Worst: Golden Air
Why: It turned out okay but we booked their service to pick us up at the airport as recommended by your book and our hotel. We were met and loaded into the van when the undercover French police appeared-we thought they were bums looking for a ride--the van had not passed inspection so it couldn't be used. We asked the police to call for another van which they did and kept us posted as to when it would arrive. It was about 4 pm on Monday and the van arrive about 4:30 and we got to our hotel around 5:15 pm. They did pick us up for our return 3 days later without incident but the drive didn't have the credit card machine so we had to dig up cash. They did discount us for the trip into town. The drivers were great so I don't know what the problem is with the company. They had told us to call from the baggage area when we arrived in Paris and we kept trying but the call never went through so we walked outside and that is where we saw the driver holding a sign for us. Then he was the one who couldn't drive us in the van as it was considered unsafe.

Jeanette Finlon in Seattle, WA USA 07/09/2009

Best: Marais Walk
Why: I have been to Paris many times and am usually showing others the "main" sights. This was refreshing and interesting on a Sunday afternoon.

Worst: Golden Air Shuttle
Why: TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE. The person who answered the phone upon arrival at CDG was rude and was of little help directing us where to find the driver. I have used other shuttle companies in Paris and never had this problem. The driver ended up being nice. On our return trip to the airport...in hindsight, we should have cancelled...was absolutely horrible. We were supposed to be picked up at 8:00 (even though I thought this was cutting it cloose for our flight) and were picked up at 8:30. We were squeezed into a van with luggage all over the place and were so late that the driver drove very recklessly on the way to the airport...way too fast, while texting! Everyone in the van was upset. We didn't even have time to use a restroom before our flight...at least we made it. I have read other reviews on other sites where people missed flights.

Mary Kane in North Wildwood, NJ USA 07/01/2009

Best: Jacquemart-Andre Museum
Why: Unexpected delight. Wonderful artwork, beautifully presented. I feel I peeked ino a period of history of a wealth Parisian couple. The paintings...oh the paintings.

Worst: Marmottan Museum
Why: A poorly curated museum. The period rooms seem unauthentic, full of reproductions, and poorly labeled. The temporary exhibitions are contemporary photographs that have nothing to do with anything…the period rooms, Monet, painting, color (Unlike the Orangerie Museum whose temporary exhibits echo their permanent collection). The Monets in the basements are poorly hung with no order or reason. Items about his life seem thrown together and shoved in a corner. The museum has no central mission, and it shows in everything they try to do--even their postcards crop the artwork unnecessarily and frequently awkwardly. I would not recommend this place even if the admission were half the 9E

Art Lover in New York, NY USA 06/26/2009

Best: 69th St. bus
Why: Affords an important view of France.

Elisse in Roanoke, VA USA 06/24/2009

Best: Montmartre
Why: It's real Paris, sightseeing, food and art, a total experience in one locale. We went back twice!

Henry Powell in Millersville, MD USA 06/22/2009

Best: Segway Tour
Why: They have figured this one out and it is great for all ages. Once you get over the price, ask for Simone. He was born in the US to French parents and has a wonderful sense of humor. He knows the city very well- moved back to Paris when he was 14 (went to college in the states/NYC)He'll give you lots of insights on how the city works.

Susan in Center Harbor, NH USA 06/20/2009

Best: Rodin Museum
Why: More intimate experience and beautiful grounds.

Melinda Grow in Davis, CA USA 06/13/2009

Best: The guided tours of neighborhoods and museums.
Why: They were so helpful with clear directions and interesting information; especially in the Louvre.

Krstin in Richfield, MN USA 06/12/2009

Best: Sacre Coeur
Why: Very charming...a nice place for Sunday brunch...sort of wished I had had one of the artists do a sketch of my daughter...cute little shops with secret alley ways ...however, because it was Sunday, many of the store were closed.

Jill in Jupiter, FL USA 06/11/2009

Best: The Orsay
Why: Selection and less crowded display than the Louvre.

Jim Gauntt in Little Rock, AR USA 06/01/2009

Worst: La Verangue
Why: While I felt comfortable there as an English speaker, and found the staff friendly and efficient my husband and I did not care for the food. There are much better places to eat in Paris for the same price or less. We both had the escargot (my husband thought one of his snails was still frozen). I had the beef bourgignon which was tough, and not especially tasty, and my husband had scallops which he thought had been previously frozen. The portions although adequate were smaller than we had had at other Paris restaurants. The house wine was just OK, and the price 67 euro for the wine and 2 prixe fixe meals was similar to what we had paid for far better food.

Bonni Tromello in Newbury Park, CA USA 05/30/2009

Best: We enjoyed the red bus ride around Paris(Les Cars Rouges) and the Orsay Museum...many other sights were good, too.
Why: The bus hit the major spots we wanted to see and was very regular in its route. The Orsay was more compact than the Lourve and had great paintings plus Rodin statues.

James B. Dailey in Suffolk, Va USA 05/29/2009

Best: Fontainebleau
Why: So much less crowded than Versailles, and historically richer. The gardens to the left of the palace, the Diana Garden, is quiet and full of locals. The grounds of the palace had swans, lawns and great picnic possibilities.

Worst: Versailles
Why: So crowded inside it lost it's luster. But, the gardens on bikes was fun.

Claire in Woodbridge, VA USA 05/26/2009

Best: Fountainbleau
Why: This was a gorgeous chateau. With Rick 's instructions we combined it with Vaux-le-Vicompte for a great day.

Worst: Army Museum
Why: The displays were not very good and we did not learn much new from the French perspective on WW I & II.

Anne in Montgomery, IL USA 05/18/2009

Best: Rue Cler
Why: Rue Cler was a marvelous discovery. Close to major attractions such as Eiffel Towerm les Invalides, Rodin Museum, Musee D'Orsay, etc. and - within walking distance of much of what we wanted to see. A fantastic market and great little shops, bakeries, etc. It was great fun sitting sipping wine at Tribeca and watching Parisian life pass by us.

Mary Lehman in Shepherdstown, WV USA 05/17/2009

Best: fountains in the gardens at Versailles
Why: Wow! With the music playing, the sun shining, the fountains flowing, and a golf cart to easily get around, this was fabulous!

Doug Wall in Winfield, IL USA 05/11/2009

Best: Versailles
Why: The fountains were on, classical music was playing, and the gardens were splendid. We rented the golf cart so we saw so much more than if we had walked ourselves. Your commentary was extremely helpful and humorous throughout the whole Paris trip! (Loved the comment about the biblical kings' heads severed at Notre Dame during the Revolution, then hidden in a backyard only to be discovered fairly recently and put in the Cluny museum.)

Karen Adair in San Diego, CA USA 05/09/2009

Best: The Left Bank Walk
Why: This is a part of Paris that I hadn't explored. Directions were clear and there were plenty of Metro stations along the way so I could stop when I wanted and return another day. I used the Batobus at St. Germain de Pres as my starting point.

Swan in Napa, CA USA 05/01/2009

Best: Paris Walks
Why: We have taken many of the Paris Walks over the past year and the two hour walks have been worth every penny that it costs. The guides are very knowledgeable and informed and they stay in control. You do not have to reserve except for special tours. Find their latest walks on: www.paris-walks.com

Eunice Luther in Holzhausen-Burbach, Germany 04/23/2009

Best: Bicycling in the Versailles Gardens
Why: The huge expanse of the gardens would have been impossible on foot. On bicycle, I managed to see much more of the gardens than I would have otherwise. I also had the incredibly joyous memory of cycling through the gardens and multiple paths leading through the French countryside. I met several other travelers who had rented bikes upon the recommendation of the guidebook, and they too were having a wonderful experience. It was the most lovely afternoon of my entire trip. Thank you Rick Steves and Rick Steves' wonderful staff!

Eugenia in Bae, IL USA 04/22/2009

Best: Montmarte Walking Tour
Why: Sacre Coeur and the surrounding area was so much fun that we actually visited there twice. Each time we saw something new. It's such a vibrant place with so much history. And Rick's walking tour was great -- taking us to places we would have never known about or gone to on our own.

Worst: Eiffel Tower
Why: Stand back and watch the glittering Eiffel Tower at night from the beginning of the Champ du Mars park or across the Seine in Trocadero. But don't spend time under the tower. Gypsy girls who claim to be from Bosnia hound American and British tourists for money while the young African men push you to buy miniature Eiffel Tower souvenirs. Ugh. It was awful!

Suzanne J. in Angleton, TX USA 04/21/2009

Best: Museum/Walking Tours
Why: I enjoy reading the museum and walking tours before I leave so that way I have a step-by-step plan of what to see and do in Paris. Your tours are the best of all of the books I have read on Paris. The museum tours allow me to select the art that I want to see. I am one who can spend hours and days in the museums so these tours allow me to plan what to see on the current and next visit to the museum on the same trip.

Daniel Onn in Sarattoga, CA USA 04/16/2009

Best: Montmarte walk
Why: People, people, people. The lively street atmosphere in the Montmarte area is quite engaging, very similar to Le Moulin de la Galette by Renoir. I could immediately relate to it.

Worst: Orangerie Museum
Why: Apart from the water lillies, there wasn't anything much captivating there

Sathish Jothikumar in Santa Clara, CA USA 04/09/2009

Best: Louvre and Eiffel Tower
Why: Awesome arrangement of artwork and artifacts at the Louvre, like Delacroix's "Liberty Leading the People" and the Law Codex of Hammurabi. And the Eiffel Tower is just that THING you HAVE to do before you die.

Worst: Dali Museum (L'Espace Dali)
Why: Definitely NOT worth the 10 Euros entry fee. I'm a fan of Dali, and I thought I would see some of his more famous works, like "The Temptation of St. Anthony." NO! All the museum had was a collection of his lesser-known works arranged by theme, like "Romeo and Juliet" and "Don Quixote." Avoid this museum while taking the Montmartre Walk and spend more time elsewhere.

Thomas Elliot in Nom de Plume, TX USA 04/07/2009

Best: Your step by step of Pere Lachaise cemetry
Why: It hit all the highlights,and the cemetry is so big it was much appreciated and needed.

Phillip Pelch in Houston, TX USA 03/29/2009

Best: Ste Chapelle / Paris Museum pass
Why: I had been there before, however Rick Steve's descriptions of the stained glass windows made it even better! The Paris Museum Pass was a great thing! We bought a 4 day and it was well worth the price that we payed. It gave us the flexibility to go to the Louvre more than once, and see things we might have thought twice about because of the price and the fact that I had a nine year old boy with us. With the pass I did not fell guilty going to the Musee D'Orsay (paying the full admission price), seeing the highlights and moving on! The ability to not have to wait in the lines was great too!

Worst: Versailles
Why: So Crowded, even in the off season ( middle of March 2009)

Violaine Romans-Murray in Gainesville, VA USA 03/26/2009

Best: Musee Quai Branly
Why: The Musee Quai Branly is right near the Eiffel Tower and is the museum of Oceania and Africa. You walk into the complex through gates that lead to tall grasses and little hidden lights that light up the "fields" at night. The museum itself is a Social Science geeks dream - all kinds of interesting culture info, artifacts and costumes with super cool music playing in the background. In the summer, there will be outdoor jazz concerts. The gift store was awesome and had wonderful books. I expected to stay about an hour - I was there for 2 1/2 hours. The museum is adding its final touches along with new exhibits, so I plan on visiting again on my next trip.

Heather in pittsburgh, PA USA 03/11/2009

Best: Notre Dame, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Army Museum
Why: We only had 2 days in Paris and I am so glad Rick gives a recommendation for what to see in that short amount of time. We were able to see most everything we wanted to! I read the book cover to cover and it was all very helpful and informative, and I feel like I had the best experience possible because I had a better understanding of Paris and it's people!

Katy Hewson in Houston, TX USA 03/01/2009

Worst: Golden Air (Airport Shuttle Service)
Why: You shouldn't recommend them anymore. I emailed them to confirm the rates in the book and they did confirm. However, when I tried to make a reservation, they would not answer. I sent 2 emails. Maybe it was because I only wanted one way back to the airport. In any case, not a trustworthy service.

Jennifer in Palo Alto, CA USA 02/01/2009

Best: Notre Dame
Why: It was extremely imposing, and I loved all the detail work outside of it.

Worst: Versailles
Why: We couldn't get to the garden, it was raining, and it wasn't as big as expected

Shannon in Wilmington, DE USA 01/20/2009

Best: Eiffel Tower
Why: It is so much bigger than I had imagined. It was magical. We went in December and it was adorned with beautiful blue lights. And when the lights started to sparkle, it was amazing. The views exhilarating, even late at night. I would never want to go at any other time.

Worst: Victor Hugo's House
Why: Thought that it was free but it was 7 euros. It was boring. Plus, you need an audio guide because everything is in French. A time waster in my opinion.

Kelly in Gulfport, Fl USA 01/03/2009

Worst: Air France bus from CDG Airport
Why: Seats were very cramped. Took almost twice as long as stated in Paris 2008 due to bad traffic. Luggage is not secure unless you're the last to board at the airport and the first to get off in Paris. Anyone could remove your luggage if you're not standing right there to watch it. There was no discount for round trip but we opted for RER when returning to airport. RER was much more comfortable and cost less than AF bus.

Calvin Hilton in Jacksonville, FL USA 12/09/2008

Best: Ste Chapelle
Why: Inch for inch the most beautiful place in the city, especially early in the morning

Worst: Panetheon/ Napoleon's Tomb
Why: EUR 7?? Wow - thank god for the museum pass, once you see the tomb that's it -so boring

Joanna in Milwaukee, WI USA 12/01/2008

Best: The Cluny, Saint Chappelle, and the catacombs.
Why: I know, there are three, but they all had different things going for them. The Cluny had such great history, Saint Chappelle took my breath away, and the catacombs were so different.

Worst: Golden Air Shuttle
Why: REMOVE THIS FROM THE BOOK!!! We had a reservation for this shuttle because your book said it was reliable. We called after 20 minutes it was supposed to show up. We were promised it would be there in 5 minutes. We called again after about 15. We were told 1 minute. We called again after about 10. We were told 30 seconds. I told him we'd give him 5 minutes, and if not we were calling a cab. The driver showed up after 8 minutes, but we'd already called a cab. The driver finally showed up, 50 minutes after the promised arrival time. The taxi wasn't that much more from our hotel, less than 42 euros for both of us.

Ann in Arlington, VA USA 11/30/2008

Best: Detailed self-guided tours of Chartres and the Louvre
Why: Good info, easy to follow

Diana Deutsch in West Hills, CA USA 11/30/2008

Worst: Golden Air Shuttle
Why: We travel to France alot and when we get there we usually take a shuttle to the hotel-- they have all gotten worse and very much more expensive. We had Golden Air this October and we had to wait 3 hours for them at CDG.We called them when we arrived, but there was this message... we are busy now doing something else, please call back. There was no room for a message.. they just hung up. This message was on their line for three hours.We were livid . We kept calling and I even asked a very nice information person to call.. which she did, and even she thought it was odd.We called the hotel and even they could not get ahold of them. We were about get a cab when I got them ... they were busy they said. When they finally came, there was another couple that had been waiting for many hours that was also going to our hotel.I actually think a cab is not too much more. We took a cab to Orly to get our car and it was cheap- and , on the way home a month later we took a cab early to CGG.It was also very reasonable.

Jane in Lebanon , OH USA 11/15/2008

Worst: Waiting for the Air France bus
Why: We took the Air France Les Cars shuttle bus from the airport to Gare Montparnasse, which worked out great. On our way back to the airport, though, we lined up at Gare de Lyon and waited... and waited... and waited. At one point, there must've been over 50 people (tourists and Parisiens alike) queued up. The bus from the airport would stop and drop people off, and then continue on to Gare Montparnasse (no pick-ups, though), but no bus going TO the airport. The drivers claimed they had no clue what was going on. One said there would be a bus arriving in 10 minutes, but it never came either. Finally, about an hour and 15 minutes after we had first arrived, we gave up. The line-up for the taxi was crazy long as well, and one of the men in the bus line told us the RER line to the airport was on strike. My friends and I guessed that the buses never showed up because they were all full leaving Gare de Montparnasse... We ended up taking the metro to the next station and then grabbing a taxi from there, which is what we should've done earlier. (It's always a difficult decision when to decide to give up. You know as soon as you leave that that's when the bus will arrive._ The friendly cab driver gave me a lecture on never waiting more than 30 min ;) Thankfully he got us to the airport just in time for us to catch our flight. We never did see an Air France shuttle bus come to the airport to drop people off between the time we arrived to the time we crossed through Immigration/Security.

miki s in vancouver, bc canada 11/11/2008

Worst: Hotel Le Tourville
Why: We were charged 250/night, however posted just outside of the hotel was 240/night. When we pointed this out and requested an adjustment, they got nasty and took down the sign, but not before I took a picture. Also, we specifically requested two single beds and received 1 double. They were not nice about correcting the error.

Kimberly in Las Vegas, NV USA 11/03/2008

Best: Cluny and Carnavalet Museums
Why: Hadn't been to these museums on previous visits to Paris and enjoyed both of them. Rick's book gives good information and makes the tours easy to follow.

Judy in Alexandria, MN USA 10/21/2008

Best: The Louvre tour was the best.
Why: My wife and I were enjoying the tour on her Ipod much more than the thousands who were running here and there and missing some priceless sights. We also found the main entrance faster than going through the Carousel. Perhaps it was just a good day for the Main Entrance.

Mike Metcalf in Poplar Grove, IL USA 09/24/2008

Best: Eiffel Tower
Why: It surprised me, how much I relished getting to the top of the tower -- it was really spectacular. AND we followed your advice to avoid lines -- we got in line on a Wednesday by 8:15 am and were about 10th in line. Yeah, we had to wait until it opened at 9, but we were among the first up before it really got crowded.

Worst: seine boat tour
Why: It really wasn't the worst, but probably didn't need to do it -- it was hard to hear the commentary and we saw the same sites both walking and bike riding on other days.

Jessica Barry in Rowley, MA USA 08/15/2008

Best: Eiffel Tower (... and the Louvre ... and Pompidou... and Notre Dame))
Why: We chose perhaps the busiest possible day to visit the Eiffel Tower (Saturday afternoon), but the wait in the "stairs only" line (as noted in Uncle Rick's book) was under an hour. All four of us managed the stairs with no problem and the views and grandeur were as in our dreams. Loved it!

We visited the Louvre Saturday morning and while it was busy, there were no line-ups at all!

Worst: the gypsies at the Eiffel Tower; and the pan-handlers at the Pompidou
Why: Despite the fully armed military men, and the police presence on the ground at the Eiffel Tower, the gypsies still attempt to extract money from unsuspecting visitors. Be aware and beware!

At the Pompidou, an organized bunch of middle-aged male panhandlers had no qualms about approaching people enjoying their morning coffee at the cafes by the beautiful fountain begging for money :(

Beth Triggs in North Vancouver, BC Canada 08/06/2008

Best: Hotel Des Grandes Ecoles
Why: Beautiful restored building in picturesque cobblestone courtyard in Arrondisement 7. The rooms were immaculate and the staff were pleasant and helpful.

Sharon Wardrip in Indianapolis, IN USA 07/22/2008

Best: (Among the Best) Napoleons tomb and museum
Why: Beautiful and grand, and with the headphones very educational. Helps explain why the French are rightfully proud of their beautiful country

Worst: Sainte-Chapelle
Why: Expensive, overcrowded, visually small and limiting. Referencing your "Paris and glance" I would give it at most 2 stars.

Martin Jansen in Agoura Hills, Ca USA 07/13/2008

Best: d'Orsey Musee and in general the Museum and Metro passes
Why: Using the museum pass makes things just go smoother even if you have to wait in line. The Metro and buses are the best ways to get around Paris. Don't miss the Musee de Montmarte

Sanford Lavine in Alameda, CA USA 07/11/2008

Best: Musee De Cluny
Why: It now has reopened much renovations and has an extensive collection of everyday objects from the middle ages. I think it is the best museum now in Paris

Worst: RUE CLER it is not the best shopping or market street in Paris
Why: Most Parisians prefer the roving markets like the ones at Pl Monge or Maubert Multalitie or the ones in their own neighborhoods. Living here you can get cheaper foods and organic produce at any Champion. You can get great Pates and cheese plates for under five euros.

Joanne in paris france, Paris 07/11/2008

Best: Arnaud - Private Guide
Why: WORTH EVERY PENNY. We used him for 4 hours our first day. He showed us how to use the metro and bus as he toured us and knocked himself out to get us to all the items on our granddaughter's list. Even helped us score ballet tickets at the Opera Garnier. My daughter and granddaughter were thrilled! Well worth $50 an hour to not wander around finding things when you have limited time.

Deborah Sabolich in OKC, OK USA 07/07/2008

Best: Musée Orangerie
Why: So beautiful and full of great art.

Krista Balgeman in Madison, WI USA 07/01/2008

Best: Louvre and Arc de Triomphe
Why: Louvre - all the fab art. Arc de Triomphe - best spot to view the Eiffel Tower lit up at night.

Worst: Equestrian Show at Versailles
Why: Total bore and waste of 11 Euros. Yes! 11 Euros to watch horses and riders going round and round and figure eights with barely any choreography. The last half-hour did have some design to it but definitely not worth the money. Oh, the horses were beautiful but that's it.

Missy in Orange, CA USA 06/29/2008

Best: The neighborhood walks and Rue Cler. Also, the L'Orangerie was mind blowing. I had no idea (I would rate it 3 triangles if you are a Monet lover).
Why: The Rue Cler was a dream! We didn't stay nearby, but spend time there strolling and picking up a mid-afternoon snack.

Worst: Walking the Champs-Elysees.
Why: A long walk with no view and lots of shops. I guess everyone has to do it once, but I think time is better spent elsewhere.

gail argenbright in beaverdam, va USA 06/28/2008

Best: the walks...
Why: I carried the guidebook everywhere - I love all the walks to get me around.

Worst: golden air shuttle
Why: I tried to make a reservation online - with my credit card number..and they never sent me a confirmation e-mail. I sent 2 more e-mails trying to clarify if they even got my reservation and heard nothing from them. They were not there to pick us up from the airport, so we used the Roissy Bus and the metro. Then my hotel booked Golden Air to take us to the airport - and they were 40 minutes late picking us up. I will never use them again!

Kathy in Downingtown, PA USA 06/23/2008

Worst: Canauexrama (canal boat ride)
Why: Very few sights, mostly going through locks and a very long black tunnel. Unless you are just fascinated by locks in canals (I am talking 9 of them!), don't waste your time or money.

Victoria Van Wie in Cypress, Tx USA 06/22/2008

Best: The D'Orsay
Why: If you like Impressionism this is the place. The collection is stunning and so is the building. The Marmottan's Monet collection is not to be missed.

Tom & Kathy in Orange, CT USA 06/18/2008

Best: Rick Steve's walking down the street last week.
Why: I was reading his guide. I couldn't stop laughing. I told him I loved his guide and he said thank you.

Robert Slattery in Minneapolis, MN USA 06/10/2008

Worst: Chateau Auvers
Why: Seemed to be geared towards children. We enjoyed walking around town.

Robert Slattery in Minneapolis, MN USA 06/10/2008

Best: Rodin Museum
Why: The art was fantastic and you got some of the personal story behind the artists.

Worst: Victor Hugo's house
Why: It was a disappointment, it was a nice house, but that's about all.

Jean Hoffmann in Pleasant Prairie, WI USA 06/05/2008

Best: Historic Paris Walk
Why: Some nice details other travelers miss, like the garden behind Notre Dame. I also liked many of the details about the Cathedral itself, and the dscription of St. Chappelle, which was unforgettable.

Tom Iarossi in San Diego, CA USA 06/04/2008

Best: The maps for Pere Lachaise and Montmartre, the tip about the garden behind Notre Dame
Why: The maps were perfect - just the right amount of detail! We were in Pere Lachaise looking for Jim Morrison's grave and although we had our little map in hand we ended up just following a couple that had your guidebook in hand so we could take the time to look around a bit :) As for Notre Dame, going alongside/behind it was a wonderful break from the throngs; not surprisingly, we saw another of your guidebooks being consulted here!

Michelle Kelly in Ft. Collins, CO USA 06/03/2008

Best: Entering the Louvre through the underground entrance.
Why: Much less crowded.

Ann Scott in Alabaster, AL USA 05/25/2008

Best: Rue Cler
Why: Cute street, great shops, great food! Also a great location to stay at!

Nicki in Seattle, WA USA 05/23/2008

Best: Orsay Museum, Marais district (Rue Cler is overrated), historic Paris walk
Why: The Orsay museum is the best museum I have seen in Europe. Start on the 3rd floor and work your way down...the best stuff is on the 3rd floor so you aren't burnt out by the time you get there. The Marais district is a great area to wonder around in. Great Bars, lounges and felt completley safe. Rue Cler was too "cookie cutter".

Worst: Louvre
Why: I say this because of the crowds and the incredibly annoying people who think that they need to take a picture of everything in there (BUY A POSTCARD!!!) Then they think that they need a pic of the Mona Lisa (one example) with NO ONE around...it is a busy museum, can't have it to yourself!!! My husband and I played a game by walking in front of people pictures ...sounds rude I know, but we only did it when there was lots of people around.

Kate Buechler in Winnipeg, MB Canada 05/22/2008

Best: Rue Cler Area
Why: It turned out to be the best place for us to stay, quiet but convenient to everything.

Worst: Eiffel Tower
Why: Not really the guide books fault, but really those lines. We never did get up there and we tried all times of day. The Arc D'Triumphe was just as good a view (I assume). Maybe the book should be more realistic about what you face with security (there were 3 heavily armed soldiers around all the time) and the lines.

Catherine Roberts in Henniker, NH USA 05/17/2008

Best: Orsay, Orangerie, and Marmottan Museums
Why: If you love Impressionist paintings, these three musuems are a must. While the Marmottan is a little out of the way, it is well worth the effort. It not only contains a fantastic collection of Monets, it has several of Berthe Morisot's paintings. And best of all--no crowds.

Worst: Notre-Dame
Why: While the church itself is beautiful inside and out, the disrepect that tourists pay while inside breaks my heart. On my last visit, hundreds of tourist were chatting away, talking on cell phones, and taking flash pictures during an actual church service. It was disgraceful.

Robert Schiffner in Moses Lake, WA USA 05/13/2008

Best: View of Eiffel from Tracadero, Louve, Ricks' walks
Why: Paris, Paris, Paris! What a wonderful city! The book gave me invaluable info that saved time, frustration, and $. Can't thank you enough. Your book was my Bible for the trip and you it was worth its weight in gold!! Thank you!!!

Worst: Bike About Tours
Why: Not terrible, but not that much fun either. Too busy handling the small bike and watching out for traffic (even tho it was Sun AM) to really enjoy the ride.

Julie Pickup in Monee, IL USA 05/12/2008

Best: Paris Shuttle Service - pariswebservices@free.fr
Why: I have used Monsieur Gerard's shuttle service from CDG to our hotel several times and he was wonderful. His services cover a wide area and are affordable. He will obtain museum tickets, restaurant reservation or any concierge needs you may have in Paris. My friends have used him also and everyone was delighted with his services. I highly recommend him. He has the best shuttle service in Paris.

Joyce Webb in Monument , CO USA 05/11/2008

Best: Eiffel tower
Why: You can spend a half-day there (and I did) reading all the information, taking in the sights, and enjoying a light dinner!

Kathy Smythe in Kolbermoor, Germany 05/08/2008

Best: Historical Paris Walk/Rue Cler Walk
Why: Notre Dame, St. Chapelle, etc. Lots of history, etc.

Rue Cler was great. Good food, shops, a little of everything.

Steve Onustack in Lynnwood, WA USA 05/06/2008

Best: Musee D'Orsay
Why: Beautiful facility, well organized, visually stunning, easy to move around and locate that one piece that you consider most beautiful or significant.

Mary Freelove in Wiesbaden, Germany 05/04/2008

Worst: Versaille
Why: There seems little accomodation/planning for the enormous quantities of people funneling through this magnificent slice of history. This lack of planning just makes it too discouraging go through.

Mary Freelove in Wiesbaden, Germany 05/04/2008

Best: Passport for Versailles
Why: The tip about getting the Passport for Versailles which not only covered all the sights in Versailles but also the train ticket was terrific. Not only enabled us to skip the line but also made it easy to see all the areas, including the gardens (there's a fee on weekends when the fountains and music are playing) and the Summer Cottage at the back of the Gardens.

Sue in Newport Beach, CA USA 04/26/2008

Best: Versailes, Mont St. Michel,
Why: Beautiful locations full of wonderful architecture and art amongst a great historical setting.

Worst: Gallerie Lafayette
Why: Very crowded (we were there early Thursday afternoon) and expensive.

Julie McLendon in Alpharetta, GA USA 04/17/2008

Best: the Louvre and Versalles
Why: I was able to use the guide book as my "reference". even do we had the audioguides and ipods, reading the info on the book and holding it was GREAT- Also METRO INFO

Toni in Murrieta, CA USA 04/02/2008

Best: The Musee Carnavalet
Why: After sticking to the Louvre and Orsay last time, this time we decided to go with Rick to the Carnavalet. The walking history tour via paintings was AWESOME! It was practically empty, and FREE! The art nouveau jewelry store was a GEM.

Peg Sewall in Lambertville, NJ USA 03/30/2008

Worst: Booking a car service in Paris
Why: I bought the Rick Steve's guidebook to Paris which was phenomenal and very helpful for my trip to Paris.For my transfer from the airport (CDG) to my hotel, i used a a car service recommended by the guidebook.The company is called Golden Air.I booked my transfer with this company because the guidebook recommended it.However the car service was a disaster.They never picked me up leaving me stranded at the airport.I called them to let them know that i was waiting for them (like the instructions they gave me in the email they sent me) and they told me that they were going to pick me up at 10:30am in terminal 2f.I was very upset because right off the bat they were not there waiting for me.After half and hour of waiting ( i called them several times because their phone was always busy) and finally got hold of them and told me that they were going to be there in 5 minutes.Obviously they lied to me the first time that i called them in the airport.I waited 15 more minutes and they never showed up.I talked to several people while waiting and they all told me the same thing: Golden Air is bad company with a very poor record and mediocre drivers that almost always leave people stranded in the airport.Needless to say i made other arragements for my transfer from my hotel to CDG airport on my return.Lesson: Dont use Golden Air.They are unreliable,liars and dont care one iota about their work.

Jorge I Villanueva in Phoenix, Az USA 03/24/2008

Best: Rue Cler experience
Why: It is everything that you said it was - very few tourists, genuinely friendly people, and great shops and restaurants. Add Cafe Centrale (across from Cafe du Marche) to your list - we had a great meal there, really friendly maitre 'd. The 87 bus is a brilliant way to get around.

Worst: Buying Le Passport for Versailles
Why: After being turned down at the TI office in the Louvre, we walked to the RER station (from Rue Cler) and asked to buy Le Passport. We were told by the attendant that her wicket was closed, and that we needed to walk to the next station (Champ de Mars) to buy the pass. She was there, but she couldn't help - when we arrived at Champ de Mars, the wicket was also closed - for important maintenance to serve you - a smoke break with the local cops. After a 20 minute wait, we were sold our pass and were on our way - the experinec almost made us forget about going to Versailles.

Howard Dellar in Aurora, On Canada 03/24/2008

Best: Versailles Palace self tour
Why: I found your guidebook the most useful at Versailles. The descriptions of the rooms were just the right amount of information for a self guided tour. Your tour kept us at a pace that did not bore my 7 year old. For a kid activity at Versailles my daughter absolutely loved Le Hameau, and yes the little shuttle "train".

Kevin Hans in Arlington, VA USA 03/23/2008

Best: Versailles
Why: Kids could run and play in the gardens, renting golf carts was quite fun.

Teresa Reveley in London, UK 03/23/2008

Best: St Marks Basilica
Why: Beautiful. The guidebook tour was invaluable. We read every entry as we visited the church and followed the excellent recommendations. Thank you Rick.

Deana in Burlington, ON Canada 03/18/2008

Best: Musee D'Orsay
Why: Beautiful art. The guidebook tour was excellent and very useful. Without it the museum might have been overwhelming.

Deana in Burlington, ON Canada 03/18/2008

Best: The Cluny
Why: Free for the next few months

Betsy Romano in Bloomfield Township, MI USA 03/10/2008

Best: Audio tours downloaded from Rick Steves website
Why: We used Rick's Versailles, Historic Walk, Louvre and Orsay Museum audio tours and had a wonderful visit to each sight. The audio tours were easy to follow but I'm glad I had your Paris book as a back up in case we made a wrong turn. It was nice to be able to pause the audio and visit something of particular interest in more depth.

Also, try to get to St Sulpice by 11:45 on Sunday to experience the organ music. You'll never forget it.

Cheryl Dowdell in Charlestown, RI USA 02/08/2008

Best: Rodin Museum
Why: Rodin's work is stunning. My wife and I believe that his work is unmatched expect by Michealangelo. An added benefit is that the museum is small enough that you can take in the scope of his work without risking a mental meltdown. The guide through the museum is wonderful and the commentary on his works was quite insightful.

Worst: Eiffel Tower view
Why: We found the view of the Champs Elysee from the Arc de Triomph much more appealing than the view from the Eiffel Tower. Plus, there was no line and the museum pass covered admission. The Eiffel Tower had a horribly long line, no facilites, and overpriced admission. It's best just to arrive at night and watch it glow from below.

John, Yvonne, and Kaytlin Galle-Bishop in Naples, Italy 01/24/2008

Worst: Cafe du Marche, rue Cler
Why: I got food poisoning when I ate here and spent the last two days of my vacation on the bathroom floor.

Susan in San Francisco, Ca USA 01/06/2008

Best: This was an outstanding guidebook for our first visit to Paris. The format is excellent
Why: The format is so very user friendly.

We also made good use of the iTunes tour downloads for Louve, d'Orsay and Versailles. It was more convenient than holding the guidebook open as we walked.

Todd Schmidt in Jonesboro, GA USA 01/06/2008

Best: Louvre and Orsay Museums
Why: If you enjoy history and or art you could spend a week between the two and not see it all!

Worst: Moulon rouge
Why: The show was great but don't go for the supper show. The slop was the most disgusting meal I have ever had --- worse than the worst in Asia.

Dan J Newbold in Kelowna B..C. , Canada 01/02/2008

Best: The Walking Tours
Why: We selected your book because of the walking tours. We found them to be pretty accurate and fairly well described.

Worst: See above
Why: These issues had changed since your book went to press (we used the 2008 version!)

Michael in New York City, NY USA 12/31/2007

Best: Walks through Paris
Why: The smells and the neighbourhoods.

Worst: Watch the doggie doo!
Why: Although the City flushes you still have to watch where you walk.

Maureen Barber in Vancouver, BC Canada 12/10/2007

Best: Th walking tours, and the guide thru the musee.
Why: Thanks to the recommended walks, we saw many things that we would not have seen on a formal tour:ie; the homes of famous people, the cemetary with gravesites of famous people,etc.

Bernadette Dunn in Madison, CT USA 12/05/2007

Best: We loved using the Batobus & the Sacre Coeur
Why: We could not get enough of the views from the Seine & the weather was beautiful & sunny which made the trip up the river all the more spectacular. The Sacre-Coeur reminded me of something out of the Arabian nights, with the sun shinning off the white dome.

Worst: The worst part were the hawkers at the Eiffel Tower.
Why: These people are everywhere but particularily bad around the tower. Fortunately for us, my cousin from Switerland spent 2 days with us & he told us to just say "no" when asked if we speak English. They would immediately leave us alone & move onto the next set of tourists. They do get annoying & if I had to find a downer to Paris, this was the only thing.

Patricia Proctor in Mount Vernon, Wa USA 11/12/2007

Best: We loved using the Batobus & the Sacre Coeur
Why: We could not get enough of the views from the Seine & the weather was beautiful & sunny which made the trip up the river all the more spectacular. The Sacre-Coeur reminded me of something out of the Arabian nights, with the sun shinning off the white dome.

Patricia Proctor in Mount Vernon, Wa USA 11/12/2007

Best: Orangerie
Why: I never thought I'd get to see Monet's water lilies. The setting couldn't be better.

Anon in Eastsound, WA USA 11/11/2007

Best: Berthillon ice cream
Why: best ice cream that I ever had...so fresh & vanilla tasted like fresh vanilla bean...yum!

Worst: Bercy Village
Why: I would tell anyone who wants to experience the true European, Parisian experience to stay away from here. It reminded me of a shopping area in Myrtle Beach, USA.

Kathy Nega in Apollo, PA USA 11/10/2007

Best: Bus #69
Why: It was a great line to take you through Paris, close to lots of must see sights.

Jill Blanchard Canada 11/08/2007

Best: St Sulpice and Pantheon
Why: St Sulpice for the extra added tour to the organ loft we would never have known about (everyone in line had the Rick Steeves book as their ticket). It was also "Heritage Day" at the church the Sunday we attended mass and we gog to watch the workment restoring the stone work on the church. The Pantheon for Foucault's Pendulum and the fabulous vews of Paris from the top of the done. A last minute addition we are glad we made to our last day.

Allan Gould in edmonton, AB CANADA 10/21/2007

Best: Catacomb in Paris
Why: An experience we would never have had and it was sobering and amazing. It also gave a more realistic picture to imagine 6 million Jews dead ( even though the dead in the catacomb were not from the holocaust) Just the physical presence of that many remains.

Linda Cherek in White Bear Lake, MN USA 10/19/2007

Best: Orsay Museum
Why: This is a greatest hits collection that doesn't get enough credit - it was barely on our radar before we read your guidebook and we're so glad we didn't miss it.

Worst: Deportation Memorial
Why: Hate to rank something as worst, but the barricades with non-explanation gave a very bad feeling. Also, the whimsical Stavinsky fountain outside the Pompidou was in a very sad state, barely squirting. Needs tlc.

Chris and Mary Ray in Cincinnati, OH USA 10/15/2007

Best: Not using a tour
Why: I took my 70 year old mom with me (I'm a 50 year old woman) to Paris for the first time and we used your guidebook to help us plan our trip. We decided right away to take a map and explore our neighborhood and found the Luxembourg Gardens close by (what a lovely relaxing place) and found lots of little shops and interesting side roads to explore. We found Parisians to be very friendly and helpful and the city is so clean! We took buses and the metro and found no lines at the Louvre, the Musee D'Orsay, nor Notre Dame. We did wait a half hour in line at the Eiffel Tower, but it was worth it. Your book made the trip so much easier and we both loved Paris and look forward to going again.

vicki probst in Pinellas Park, Fl USA 10/14/2007

Best: Local eateries
Why: We loved going to little local cafes and bistros to eat. Using my high school french was a challenge sometimes, but we always got mostly what we thought we ordered and the staff were always kind to help us. The food everywhere was delicious - from the ham and egg sandwiches in the cafe, the chicken and pasta in the bistros, the wine and pastries at the restaurants and the crepes at the creperies along the street - all delicious and fresh. It was a joy to walk around the neighborhoods and find new places to eat and try local foods, day or night! And thanks for the tips about the steak - I ordered mine well done as you suggested, and was I glad! It was still medium rare, but edible! And very tasty!

Vicki Probst in Pinellas Park, FL USA 10/14/2007

Best: Caveau de la Huchette
Why: Caveau de la Huchette, 5 Rue de la Huchette, Mo: St. Michel: Great Jazz club, good band, nice people and super music.

Worst: Galleries Lafayette Fashion Show
Why: Galleries Lafayette Fashion Show. We attended this show five years ago and it is no longer the pleasant experience it was. The room was hot. The staff were rude and kept us waiting in a cramped stairwell well after the arrival time. Last time we set at a table with refreshments, now you sit in chairs all in a row. I would skip the show.

Albert in Clanton, AL USA 10/02/2007

Best: Paris Museum Pass
Why: It rocks - I was able to bypass everyone in a long line for the Orangerie and the Louvre!

Elle Couto in Longview, WA USA 10/01/2007

Best: Historic City Walk
Why: It's the second time I've done this walk and you altered it a little, but each time I've done one of your walks (and I've done quite a few) I'm reminded of doing a scavenger hunt. It makes it so much fun and I've learned so much more than when using more traditional guidebooks.

Nancy Kline in Mission Viejo, CA USA 09/18/2007

Best: Auvers-sur-Oise
Why: I love van Gogh, and it wasn't very touristy.

Elizabeth in Brooklyn, NY USA 08/25/2007

Best: Pompidou
Why: A great museum and I don't think it's an eyesore at all! Lovely cafe on the first floor with a view of the ground floor. We also got in free after showing our school ID faculty cards.

Worst: Rue Cler
Why: We were disappointed overall with the Rue Cler. Maybe we had too high expectations? Felt very much like a Disneyfied version of what a Parisian neighborhood must be. Dead at night. But we did enjoy the easy walking distance to the Eiffel Tower.

Aimee in Oakland, CA USA 08/25/2007

Best: Louvre, Orsay, and Versaille self-guided tours
Why: They were to the point, showed us some of the best parts of each sight. This was helpful as we had limited time and wanted to see the highlights without being overwhelmed.

Devin Alexander in Olympia, WA USA 08/06/2007

Best: Hotel Muguet
Why: Fantastic location and helpful and pleasant staff.

P. Kelly Canada 08/02/2007

Best: Bike About Tours
Why: The experience was one of the highlights of my trip to Paris. Wonderful experience riding around Paris on a cool bike. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to see Paris without having to walk around all the time.

Keya in Indianapolis, IN USA 08/02/2007

Best: Everything! Particularly, the Louvre, Orsay and Rodin; Jacquemart Museum
Why: You can't go wrong with such fantastic museums and I enjoyed the book tours (but got the audioguides as well). The Jacquemart was a wonderful surprise, and we even did the nearby Comondo house (recommended by a guide at Jacquemart).

Worst: Pompidou Center
Why: Cannot bring myself to appreciate "installations," but the paintings were great.

Liz Tanner in Provo, UT USA 07/30/2007

Best: Versailles Day Trip
Why: The details Rick included about the individual rooms in the palace were excellent! If I had not had this book, I would have been wandering through highly decorated rooms, not really sure what I was looking at. The history of the room was a great added bonus to getting the full experience of "life at court" with the royals of France. I saw at least 4 other tourists in the palace reading the same guide book, out loud as I was, to get the information! Wonderful. :)

Shelley Myers in Deer Park, TX USA 07/23/2007

Best: Musee d'Orsay
Why: The tour was laid out well, the Museum is organized well, and the atmosphere is much more relaxed than that other Paris museum, which shall remain unnamed.

Worst: Paris Story
Why: No one was entertained by the film. Those who are interested in history found the film sorely lacking in content, while those disinterested in history entirely found no other subjects presented.

Wesley Green in Atlanta, GA USA 07/10/2007

Best: Eiffel Tower
Why: Much more magnificient and huge than expected. Nice to come out of the Trocadero metro station and be totally struck by the sight of the monument.

Selma Pierce in Salem, OR USA 07/08/2007

Best: Franc Pinot Jazz Club on Ile St. Louis.
Why: This is truly a back-door kind of place. The staff made us feel comfortable from the first time we went there and remembered us when we stopped in again. We felt like locals! We got to hear good music in an intimate setting. A bonus for us is that the room with the music is non-smoking, so the whole experience was enjoyable.

Worst: taxi drivers
Why: They do not like taking a fare for what they consider a short distance, and they are not shy about letting you know. When we got a taxi from Gare du Lyon to Ile St Louis (with luggage), the driver complained the whole time. When we made the return trip, a couple of drivers refused to take us before we finally got one that would. We live in New York City, so we are used to people with attitude, but few NYC cabbies get away with this kind of behavior!

Debbie in Brooklyn, NY USA 07/07/2007

Best: Historic Paris Walk, Louvre, Orsay, Versailles tours
Why: I got so much more from these experiences than I would have otherwise.

Carol Arscott in Sarasota, FL USA 07/06/2007

Best: Caveau de la Huchette
Why: We were four ladies with no idea where to experience a jazz club...took your recommendation & REALLY enjoyed it. Thanks Rick

Barbara Pearce in Freeport, NY USA 06/25/2007

Best: Walking tours
Why: This book was the best thing I ever bought. I used all the tips for sights, hotels, walking tours and just overall knowledge of Paris. Without this book, I would certainly have missed out on many of the most beautiful and interesting sights in Paris. I used the book's walking tours to direct us through sights such as the Louvre, Orsay Museum, Napolean's Tomb, Versailles and many others. We would recommend this book to everyone planning to travel.

Martine Kasch in Huntington Beach, CA USA 06/22/2007

Best: Rick's step-by-step guides through daunting museums!
Why: My husband had just finished his intern year at a hospital, and we were looking forward to much needed time together on our week-long trip to Paris. But within two days of arrival, he came down with a terrible case of the flu and could hardly get out of bed. He had a high fever, chills -- the works! I had taken Rick Steves' Paris out of the local library before leaving to read on the plane. It turned out to be a godsend. Rick maximized our time in Paris by speedily guiding us through ticket lines and showing us only what we NEEDED to see! My husband and I would get up, drug him up on ibuprofen, and see a sight. Around lunchtime his fever would be back up, and we would head back to the hotel. He would take a nap and more ibuprofen, and I would eat fresh cherries and cheese bought from a street market while reading books I'd purchased at an English book store. Then it was off to another sight before turning in early. I just want Rick to know that this trip could have been a miserable disaster. Fortunately I was with a self-diagnosing doctor and we were able to get prescription meds at a nearby pharmacy, but what saved Paris for us was Rick Steves. I don't know what we would have done without him. By the end of the trip, I think my husband was more sick from hearing, "Rick Steves says ..." than he was from the flu! I am a fan for life.

Mackie in Birmingham, AL USA 06/17/2007

Best: Rodin Museum
Why: Perhaps the most beautiful and civilized museum in Paris, with a nice garden cafe at reasonable prices. Easy to get to, just steps from Metro.

Lee in Long Beach, CA USA 06/12/2007

Best: Rue Cler Street Market
Why: I would have never discovered it on my own and it was such a "typical" french market - amazing!

Pam Notar in Fairport, NY USA 06/05/2007

Best: Musee D'Orsay, Louvre
Why: The Musee D'Orsay is an old train station and the structure is well-suited for the impressionist works housed therein. I'm a huge fan of impressionist art so naturally I loved this museum.

Melissa in Hoboken, NJ USA 05/31/2007

Best: Archeological Crypt, Eiffel Tower at night, Notre Dame, Museum Pass, L'Open Tour bus
Why: Biggest and most pleasant surprise was the Archeological crypt in front of Notre Dame. It was fascinating, and there was no line whatsoever. The Eiffel Tower at night is totally different than during the day. We went up the Tower right before sunset and we watched the sun go down. Gorgeous.

Worst: Metro Chatelet stop
Why: I loved using the Metro - cheap, convenient, clean, fast. But avoid the Chatelet stop. It was so large and confusing. We got lost trying to find the way to our train. It was stressful.

Angel in Chicago, IL USA 05/29/2007

Best: La Defense, Grand Arch
Why: It's super modern and huge! After "old" Paris, it just feels really cool. It was deserted on the Sat we were there, but I bet during the week it's quite busy. Went to the top of the arch but the view from the Arc de Triomphe is better. Still nest to see, take the metro to the last stop.

melissa in gallagher, oh USA 05/29/2007

Best: L'Orangerie, Monet's water lillies
Why: They are beautiful! Simply displayed, and the lower level, as well. Spend and hour here and it's very peaceful, nice break.

melissa in gallagher, oh USA 05/29/2007

Best: Eiffel tower at night
Why: It's just not the same during the day. It's much more impressive lit and approached from the Trocadero side. Also, climb the Arc de Triomphe, the view is great

melissa in gallagher, oh USA 05/29/2007

Best: Vaux le Vicomte tour by candlelight
Why: Smaller and more intimate than Versaille, Sat nights thru the summer you can take the candlelight tour. They have a wonderful website, too. You get picked up at 6:00 from you hotel and back after midnight. Still have the whole day to see Paris. highly rec this.

Worst: Getting there
Why: Took a discount tour via Heathrow and the long lines were a drag. Wish people were more savvy about how to pack, what to carry on and what NOT to, getting thru lines etc. Also, etiquette on planes anymore is non-existent.

melissa gallagher in mason, oh USA 05/29/2007

Best: We loved the walking tours
Why: We enjoyed the self direction--our favorite since my husband did his MA on HEmingway was to follow in his footsteps--SHakespeare Book Shop, Deux Magots

Susan AUld in Stuart , fl USA 05/29/2007

Worst: The Post Office on Rue Cler
Why: I asked, in French, "Bonjour monsieur, Pardon,parlez-vous anglais?" to a clerk, and he said very bruskly said "NO!!" and turned away from me. I wanted to ask him can I buy 20 postcard stamps. But, I was better served at the Post Office in the Eiffel Tower, the clerk was very friendly and nice. I do need to say that I only met one unfriendly person in all of Paris, certainly less than I encounter here in the USA on a daily basis!

Martha Ramirez in Corpus Christi, TX USA 05/28/2007

Best: Rodin Museum Gardens
Why: I really liked The Thinker. The gardens are a pleasant contrast to the crowds and heat in the museums. I don't necessarily think that this is the best site, but it was the most pleasant surprise.

Worst: Versailles
Why: This wasn't bad at all, but it doesn't live up to the build up. It's hot and crowded. Part of my problem was that the tour I wasn on didn't allow enough free time to see the Triannons or hamlet.

LesLein in Alexandria, VA USA 05/25/2007

Best: Carnavalet Museum & Jardin des Plantes
Why: We had never visited either in the past; both were revelations. Re former, we learned a lot about French history generally, but especially wonderful tutorial about the revolution. In addition to wonderful gardens, the latter teaches a lot about French history too.

Worst: Rue Cler Walk
Why: I don't get what's so special about this area. Except that perhaps its concentrated and contained. I much prefer to wander in the Marais, or St Germain-des-Pres.

Karen Possner in Bethesda, MD USA 05/21/2007

Best: Picnicking in the park.
Why: It doesn't matter what park. It's so easy to pick up bread, cheese or a great baguette sandwich along the way. After being on our feet for hours, relaxing in a Paris garden was memorable.

Worst: Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise
Why: Bus loads of rowdy high school tour groups ruined our much awaited boat ride at night. Their talking, yelling, singing, chanting was loud you could not hear the tour guide or the audiotapes. The boat tour guide's, empty threats of returning to the pier were laughed at by the large groups.

When the ride was over I complained to the management and asked for my money back. They refused saying they had no control over the group. If they can't control these large groups, they shouldn't let them on the boats.

I would suggest taking a boat cruise from one of the smaller operators such as Vedettes du Pont Neuf. It may cost just a little more, making it less attractive to the large school groups.

Terri Kane in High Point, NC USA 05/20/2007

Best: Pere Lachaise, Deportation Museum
Why: I was looking forward to all the usual sights. These were unknown to me. Both were truly memoriable.

Mary Zikos in Princeton, NJ USA 05/17/2007

Best: Bike About Tours, Paris
Why: This small bike tour company really knows Paris well & showed me all the coolest areas of the city. They kept us away from the touristy bits and in our small group, I really felt like it was like friends showing friends around Paris. Something different & well worth it!

Worst: Moulin Rouge
Why: Nice girls, but a serious tourist trap. The show only lasted 1.5 hours and then the next bus loads came pilling in right after.

Mya Daniels in Chicago, IL USA 05/16/2007

Best: Pere Lachchaise Cemetery, Marmottan Museum
Why: We'd not been there before and were very impressed by your suggested walking tour. The idea of coming in by the Columbarium entrance was a stroke of genius! We were early and easily easily avoided the tour busses coming in the other entrance. This made for a very peaceful and uncluttered visit. The Marmottan, which we had also never visited (or even heard of on our other trips to Paris!) was a wonderful plus also. It formed a perfect conclusion to a morning that had begun at Giverny. Again, the walking tour and explanations were first-rate.

Ron Kickasola in Hickory, NC USA 05/15/2007

Best: Musee' Dorsey and Parisians
Why: Besides the impressionist paintings the transformation from rail station to museum was amazing. We had a perfect experience. We even had a Paris taxi driver apologize to us that he could not speak English. Everyone was so nice to us.

Stephen and Dorothy King in Palm Harbor, FL USA 05/11/2007

Best: all of paris.,at night as well as the daytime
Why: the eiffel tower at night is the best sight.the boat ride to and from anywhere was the most romatic and st pauls was the most awe inspiring.

Jerry DeWitt in franklin, tn USA 05/09/2007

Best: Versailles
Why: So much to see and learn and we didn't even make it to the gardens or the extras.

Worst: Jewish Art and History Museum
Why: kind of boring

Craig Caldwell in Kaysville, Ut USA 05/09/2007

Best: Orsay Museum
Why: Great art, especially interesting using Rick's downloaded tour on iPod.

Dale in Fairfield, OH USA 05/02/2007

Best: Rue Cler Area, Museum Pass, Tuilleries Garden, Luxembourg Garden
Why: The Hotel Muget and brasseries recommended in the Paris Guide made our trip comfortable, delightful, and were a nice respite after walking all day. The museum pass not only avoided lines but allows you to leave a museum for a picnic or a break and come back later for the same price. We went to the Louvre three times during our 6 day stay in Paris. We are amateur painters so we spent most of our time in art museums and sitting while drawing and painting in a park.

Worst: Railpasses and Thalys trains
Why: Nearly all the trains we wanted to take were Thalys trains. We needed to go 1) Brussels to Amsterdam, 2) Amsterdam to Paris, and 3) Paris to Brussels. Trip 1 was not a Thalys and we had no problem. Trip 2 was a Thalys and they had no room left for railpass holders in second class. We needed to upgrade to first. First class is pleasant experience but was expensive considering we already spent about $500 on railpasses. For trip 3) we tried to make reservations while we were there (about 4 days in advance). We learned at that point that a railpass is like having a discount airline ticket or frequent flyer miles. The only allocate so many seats for railpass holders. So although there were seats available, we could not use our railpasses. They said we could buy a full fare ticket for €156 for two people. They also suggested coming back in a day or two to see if anyone cancelled.

Since we had some time, we chose to take a bus instead. One trip to the bus office yielded our bus tickets and reservations for about US$ 50. The bus wise quite pleasant and the only downside is that it takes longer.

I think I have bought my last railpass.

Ken in Citrus Heights, CA USA 04/29/2007

Best: Rue Cler
Why: We probably would not have found this on our own, and it was a fun morning. My daughter and I stopped for hot chocolate at the Tribeca cafe, which was excellent.

Worst: Prominade Plantee
Why: We were there when the shops below were closed, and the walk way above is okay, but gets old in a hurry. I wouldn't go out of my way (again) to get there.

Jane Egge in Acton, MA USA 04/26/2007

Best: Museum Pass
Why: It saved time! For example, no line at the Louvre for pass holders...

Amy CA USA 04/24/2007

Best: Museum Pass
Why: The whole book was excellent, but this saved us precious time we would have wasted standing in line. Plus the thrill of zipping past the crowds. Rick, you're my hero!

Jack Massa in Tucker, GA USA 04/23/2007

Best: Your self-guided walks
Why: I love to walk and the only way to really see things is on foot. I think your walks helped us discover key and very different sections of Paris.

Worst: The Puces St. Ouen flea market
Why: A bit scary part of town. There are some wonderful antique shops but an awful lot of vendors just selling cheap clothing, shoes, and miscellaneous items. An awful lot of repetition and did not find any real arts and crafts.

Larry Murr in Poulsbo, Wa USA 04/17/2007

Best: Colette Barbier, Burgundy local guide
Why: You recommended her as a guide in Burgundy. She couldn't have been better. We went in June of last year and the expierience with her will never be forgotten. She is so professional that she made our trip to the Burgundy wine country a beautiful, beautiful time. I will never forget her kindness and how much knowledge she has. I recommend her to the highest degree. I hope to go back to France and will again request her assistance in Burgundy. Tell all of your readers not to miss out on this excellent, beautiful, professional and lovely host Colette Barbier. P.S. her rates are very affordable!

GERALD in DETROIT, MI USA 04/17/2007

Best: Champs de Elysses stroll from Louvre to Arc de Triumph
Why: Absorb everything from the Jardines de Tulliries at thje Louvre to the Place de I forget what it's called. Shops, patisseries, people -- the essence of Paris ...walk it the full length if you can, it's only about a mile and a quarter to the Arc. My wife and I did it in late March with a dab of snow flurries--didn't matter. Great flavor at the Arc and then catch a cab to the Eiffel Tower then eat at the restaurant there, the pate de foi gras is wonderful and expensive, of course. The wine was ordinary, expensive, but you are at the Eiffel Tower for Pete's sake!!!

Worst: Wait staff ,but with reason
Why: Start EVERY conversation with Bonjour. Speak French!! What little you might know. Failure to do so will cause you great problems like my wife who didn't try at all to speak French who got to buy a $4 US broken pen at the shop in the Eiffel Tower along with her postcards becaue the clerk thought her as haughty. The French are great if you, we, only make an effort to learn the BASICS. Go to Travland.com and click on the flag of the country you want the language for. We've used it for a decade and it REALLY pays off since the words and phrases are pronounced for you and you can learn it by rote memorizations.

Don't be the UGLY American, learn just a few phrases in the language of the country you visit.

George Glines in Independence, KS USA 04/16/2007

Best: Very helpful information on the Museum pass and the Metro tickets.
Why: Museum pass saved time and money as did buying a carnet of tickets for the metro.

Richard Brim in Lansing, MI USA 04/11/2007

Best: Orsay Museum Tour
Why: Exceptional artwork explaned in terms that the family found informative and interesting.

Anderson in st. Louis, mo USA 04/06/2007

Best: all of the guided walking tours & Rue Cler
Why: All of the walking tours were exceptional. I especially enjoyed my visit to Rue Cler. It was a great break from the touristy places.

Worst: The Eiffel Tower
Why: Only because of the mainstream tourists and the "cattlelike" feeling. We prefer to avoid tourist crowds.

Joel Goldsmith in Atlanta, GA USA 04/04/2007

Best: Bike About Tours
Why: A great insiders tour of the city. Felt like friends showing friends around. Not the typical touristy tour. Loved it!!

Worst: Eiffel Tower
Why: Huge lines and cloudy day.

Jamie Summers in Chicago, IL USA 04/02/2007

Best: Eiffel Tower at night
Why: The view from the Trocadero was fabulous!! Plus it was nice that there were very few people around, so we didn't have to worry about other people in the background of our pictures.

Worst: Opera Garnier
Why: Actually, we really enjoyed visiting the Opera Garnier. But we had a bad experience trying to make it for the guided English tour. There was only one person selling tickets in the booth and there was someone trying to buy tickets for a school group tour, which took up so much time we missed the guided tour, even though we arrived 15 mins early to buy the tickets. What was even worse was that some other tourists decided they could cut in line ahead of everyone else...just because. When it was my turn to buy tickets, a lady buying tickets for a group decided to cut right in front of me and the person selling tickets didn't say one word. The lady who cut in front of me had absolutely no shame, even though I was glaring at her and told her the least she could do was say "excuse me".

Debbie in Austin, TX USA 03/26/2007

Best: Tie between the Eiffel tower and Chateau de Versailles
Why: Pictures don't do justice to either sight. One cannot imagine how big they are until you are next to them. Awesome!

Worst: Mona Lisa
Why: I was expecting more. Hordes of tour groups elbowing their way to the front to snap pictures, only to be scolded by docents for doing so. I wasn't impressed.

Gregg Maxwell in Grapevine, TX USA 03/22/2007

Best: 2 day museum pass
Why: Very good way to see lots of monuments. Since all are not museums as such (i.e. Pantheon, St. Chapelle), many are a quiet and rejuvenating compared to Louvre, Orsay.

ashik in Seattle, WA USA 03/21/2007

Best: The Rue Cler neighborhood
Why: Great central location.

John and Amy Lampman in Spring, TX USA 03/18/2007

Best: Walking Tours throughout Paris
Why: Rick's walking tours were great. I also appreciated the very detailed directions on how to get to/from Versailles via the train as this is not very self explanatory

Kirk in Chicago, IL USA 03/15/2007

Best: going to the top of the Eiffel Tower at night
Why: I could see what an amazing city this is. I though about my Great-Grandparents when they lived in France.

Worst: Walking the Champs-Elysees
Why: I felt that it was too much commerialism on this stretch of Paris;however, I did like all the old buildings that were on this street.

Monica A Douglass in San Francisco, CA USA 03/11/2007

Best: Marmottan Museum
Why: A variety of Monets; a treat to see how he painted his favorite subjects

Warren Galloway in Toronto, ON Canada 03/11/2007

Best: Musee de l'Orangerie
Why: Monet's water lillies.

Worst: Chartes Cathedral
Why: The Labyrinth, we went on Friday to avoid the chairs, but we were told at the Church the man who moves the chair was sick...

Robert in Winston Salem, NC USA 03/07/2007

Best: The Eiffle tower at night.
Why: The tower itself is spectacular all lit up as is the city. I saw it previously during the day.

Dee Littrell in Walnut Creek, CA USA 02/25/2007

Best: Arc de Triomphe
Why: At sundown! It is a glorious view of the city and of the Eiffel Tower! I think it's the best view one can get in Paris and much more romantic than it's given credit for.

Marcie in Louisville, KY USA 02/19/2007

Best: The day by day guides
Why: It made planning a trip so very easy. My wife and I went to Paris to celebrate our 20th ... and the trip convinced us we need to do it every year. Not Paris, but a trip, with Rick Steve's. Of all the guidebooks we bought or were loaned, yours was significantly better.

Steve Marsh in Plano, TX USA 02/18/2007

Worst: Centre Pompidou
Why: I want to second the previous post. My wife and I were there in May 2005. We bought tickets online before we went (and, if it announced the renovations online, it wasn't prominent). When we got there and discovered that the bulk of the collection was unavailable, we asked for refund...no dice!!!

Stephen Sander in West Chester, PA USA 02/01/2007

Best: Orangerie
Why: Monet's Water Lillies are profoundly beautiful. The new display rooms are upstairs, with oval shaped walls and gently diffused natural light from above. The canvases surround you, and the effect is one of complete serenity.

The lower level architecture is completely different from above. The exposed concrete is trying to be edgy, but feels like a bomb shelter to me. That aside, the expanded lower level has a great exposition of all the paintings donated to the Louvre in 1934. The Georges de la Tour paintings will knock your socks off.

Worst: Centre Pompidou
Why: The Centre Pompidou is currently remodeling floor 5. That means the permanent collectoin of paintings by Picasso, Dali, Matisse et al is unavailable. The rest of the Pompidou exhibit is, in my opinion, a waste of time.

Wendy Jones in Bellingham, WA USA 01/08/2007

Best: Day trip to Chartres
Why: We totally loved Chartres and wished we had allowed more time. The cathedral is fabulous and the town was also charming. Of the sights in Paris, we all really loved St. Chappele. It's a don't miss.

Debbie M in Plano, TX USA 01/06/2007

Best: Musee de l'Orangerie/Palais Garnier - Ballet
Why: The sheer breathtaking beauty of Monet's panels of water lillies is worth going to Paris all on its own.

The overwhelming brilliance of the Palais Garnier and a world class ballet company.

Worst: Sacre Coeur
Why: It's a church. There are a few of those in Paris and many of those are much more beautiful and have millions of less rude and disrespectful tourists in them.

JC in Edmonton, AB Canada 01/05/2007

Best: Sight-seeing busses such as Les Cars Rouges
Why: In a city where the taxis were difficult, this was a great way to get oriented and get around for two days. This was especially helpful as it was winter when it was cold outside and I did not want to wait for a taxi or hike to the Metro.

Worst: The night time boat tour
Why: Find a boat tour with a glass top! A young man on one of the bridges attempted to urinate on us as we passed under. It was realllly close! That could seriously ruin a person's trip.

Matt in Encinitas, CA USA 01/01/2007