Paris 2012 Guidebook
Favorite discoveries or tips:
I discovered that the owner quoted me MORE for a Rick Steves discount than was on their web site! See my copy and paste below. The web site says a Classic Twin room is 187 euro per night when you do the internet special (pre-pay, no cancel). GRRR!
Michele Vossler in Bellevue, WA USA 02/08/2012
I loved my trip. I wanted to pass along an observation which may be valuable to visitors to Paris. In Charles De Gaulle airport, the direction arrows point down when the intent is for the passenger to proceed straight ahead. This is different from the convention used in the US which would have the arrow pointing up for continuing straight ahead. As one running to catch a plane, confusing and going down a level needlessly should be avoided. The book was so helpful with other little tips that I wanted to pass this one along. Good work guys and gals!
Mary Ference in Dahlgren, Va USA 02/01/2012
Two great patisseries in Paris, both of which are on Rue Rambuteau. The first one is Pain de Sucre and the other one is Hure Boulangerie. Probably the best baked goods and sandwiches I have ever had. And so beautifully prepared. A must for foodies!
Also there is a pagoda theatre near the Bon Marche. Definitely worth the trip. You would never imagin finding such a beautiful little Asian themed garden in Paris.
Helen in San Francisco, CA USA 01/11/2012
We were fortunate to have had Thierry Gauduchon as a guide in Paris. He is excellent! Thank you for the recommendation in your PARIS guidebook that we also used for our on your own tours. The maps are user friendly, the areas of interest are spot on.
Markay Allen in San Marcos, CA USA 12/07/2011
The Paris "pocket" guide was wonderful...it really was like having a tour guide in your pocket! We used it for touring the Louvre, Orsay, and Versailles and it was a relief not to have those bulky audiophones stuck to our ears.
Terri in Quilcene, WA USA 11/26/2011
The Parc Floral de Paris in the Bois de Vincennes contains several play areas for children but we randomly found a treat within the park. Follow the map to the big slides. On the far side of the playground behind the slides is an adventure course which is great for older children, teens and adults. You wear a safety harness with a safety line which cannot be removed until you reach the end of the course. There are wires to walk, logs to walk over, nets to climb and zip lines. There are 3 courses: a low one on which everyone starts to learn how to use the equipment, a mid-level course and a high course. Costs for 2 hours are 10 euros for kids under 1.4 meters and 15 euros for everyone over 1.4 meters. My 8 year old son had a great time. The company has a website which is only in French. http://www.evasion-verte.fr/parc-floral/ There is also a different play area nearby with more rope climbing activities. My son preferred to play up in the trees.
Debra in Gettysburg, PA USA 11/03/2011
The Paris guide book was worth its weight in platinum!! Loved Rue Cler, thank you Steve. The top of the Eiffel tower can be cold at night but the crowds are warm and friendly.
Vicente in Melrose Park, IL USA 11/01/2011
I would warn travelers in/out of Paris...the CDG airport is chaotic, disorganized, no direction, frustrating. Allow at least 3 hours to get through the mess. Air France is wonderful--great food and amenities.
wayne white in walnut creek, ca USA 10/26/2011
If you go to Paris definately get that Museum Pass. We bought ours right around the corner from our hotel and it was great not having to wait in very longs lines especially since it rained the whole time we were in Paris. Rick Steve's guidbook was a huge help. It was Like our travel bible over there and the maps set us on the right path since we wlaked everywhere we went. It was so funny to see so many tourists carrying the guidebooks It seemed to us Rick Steve's was #1 for travlers to Paris
Rose Kenney in Tewksbury, MA USA 10/23/2011
On a recent trip to Paris we went back to the Hotel de L'Alma in the Rue Cler area. RS dropped this as a recommended hotel but we tried it after noting that it is now three star, vice previous two. Some improvements had been made and the hotel was nicer but it is NOT a three star hotel. Online rates were comparable to other hotels in the area and the staff was very helpful.
Bill Z in Southport, NC USA 10/07/2011
Please include the fact that it's necessary to keep your Metro ticket until you exit the system. During one trip, I encountered six officers blocking the entire walkway, making sure everyone had a legitimate ticket.
Fortunately, I had mine with me (I had thrown them away right after entering sometimes) so I got past them.
David Yuen in Hollywood, FL USA 10/05/2011
Saturday Market by the military school in arr.7 near eiffel tower... they had it all: food, clothing, leather goods, all made in france.
Mark in Victoria, bc canada 09/25/2011
Never, ever, ever go with a "budget" hotel that is not recommended by Rick. I don't care what Rough Guides or Trip Advisor says about it. Trust me. I learned the hard way. Never again.
You really need to allow a whole day for the Louvre, then another day, or at least half a day, each for Notre Dame and Eiffel Tower. You can't rush around and see all these things in one day or even day and a half, you'll go In-Seine!
Katherine in Hutchison, IL USA 09/03/2011
We 'trawl' for background for our enjoyment of your tours. We are also 'life long learners' so we found The Learning Company's 'Great Courses' series. Once in a while we find a lecture series that really expands our information base for one of your tours. One example is Dr. Richard Brettell's 'From Monet to Van Gogh: A History of Impressionism." Imagine our interest when we found the lectures top heavy on the physical development of Paris and its culture and its social structure as well as covering a professional discourse on the major works of Impressionist art! These courses can be afforded by 'budget travelers' once they realize that the entire catalog of this company is placed on deep discount sales on a rotating basis each year. We buy cheap and learn a lot! I wish other Rick Steves travelers could benefit from what we discovered by accident and by having little to talk about over breakfast (as we are long-married and living in retirement.
Jim Ellsworth Caldwell, Texas
James Ellsworth in Caldwell, TX USA 08/13/2011
When we went to Versailles, we bought our ticket at Cafe Bleu Roi and also ate dinner there after exploring Versaille and it was one of the best meals that we have had so far while in Paris. Also, the owner/bartender who sold us the Passport for Versaille was incredibly friendly and funny! He saw me holding the Guide Book when we walked in and said, "Rick just called to tell me you needed a ticket". We would recommend not only buying tickets at Cafe Bleu Roi but also stopping there for a bite to eat...there was no wait, unfortunately the line for security at Versaille was obnoxiously long...but fortunately the scenery while waiting is beautiful!
Wendy in Jamestown, NY USA 08/10/2011
On our recent trip to Paris, we found your Paris guidebook excellent. We suggest one addition to art museums. The Musee d'Art Moderne de Paris was a real find and was not included in your book. This museum has an excellent collection and happens to be free. They also have a very good and reasonably priced restaurant with a relaxed outside sitting area. This museum is centrally located as well and near a Metro station.
Kathy Pezdek in Claremont , CA USA 08/09/2011
The Fat Tire bike rides are great.
Bob May in St. Louis, MO USA 07/24/2011
Croissants and fresh-squeezed OJ in the Marais were the only bargains found on our trip!
Marta in Vienna, VA USA 07/23/2011
I believe that readers need to be informed of the abundance of pushy and rude scam artists on the steps to Sacre Coer. We were constantly approached to have a bracelet made, sign a petition, buy some useless rubish. As we left they yelled epitats about American are Sh**. Also, readers should be informed of the long line of "shell game" scammers on the street below the church. We were not pulled into any of the scams because we came prepared having reading Rick's book on Paris.
Elizabeth Metier in Fort Dodge, IA USA 07/05/2011
Paris 2011: You need to make on-line Eiffel Tower reservations several days in advance (p196). There was a wonderful fountain show at Versailles set to music. The audioguide for the Army museum was 6 Euros (NOT included in the admission price! p66) and the north entrance only accepted credit cards.
Linda in San Antonio, TX USA 06/19/2011
The Paris Greeter walk is highly recommended. We didn't know a soul in Paris so it gave us a local connection and we saw some things we'd never have known about. The website is now www.parisiendunjour.fr The walks are by donation.
Laura in Fredericksburg, TX USA 06/16/2011
In regards to the Pere Lachaise Cemetery tour from the Paris 2011 guidebook (p. 338-339), there was no mention of the painter Camille Pissarro's grave (I found it near the tomb of Heloise & Abelard). A friend of mine who lives near the Chantilly Chateaux took me to a great crepe restaurant. The name of the restaurant is "L'Atelier Restaurant de Crepes". Address is 49, Rue Michel Blere 60260 LAMORLAYE FRANCE. It has great food, nice contempory interior design with a quiet, pretty indoor patio. Two of us had dinner crepes, a drink, and desserts for 38 euros.
Linda Smith in west chicago, IL USA 05/27/2011
Steve, I think you should seriously consider including addresses (with postal codes). Many people today travel with the use of blackberries and gps. Do you realize how many towns have the same or nearly the same names in France! It drove us nuts!!
Susan bragg in Houston, Tx USA 05/26/2011
Good Afternoon,
My wife and I just completed an 8 day vacation in France. I did most of the planning myself and most of that was from your Guidebook. The vacation consisted of 5 days in Paris and 3 days touring Normandy by car. The tips from your book were invaluable in determining where to stay and the sights of Paris. We stayed at the Hotel Hospitel across from Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, the Hotel duDauphine in Honfluer, and Les Vielles Digues in Mont St. Michel. The Paris Museum Pass was very helpful.
Frank Swigon in San Antonio, TX USA 05/06/2011
Had my hair washed and styled in a Paris salon. A fun experience!
Judy Johnson in Alexandria, MN USA 04/25/2011
Skip the subway and take the bus in Paris. The bus system is easy to learn and you don't have to do all the walking the subway requires. Plus when you are in a beautiful city like Paris, you want to be above ground not below it.
Greg J in Georgetown, KY USA 04/24/2011
I love Paris, and we read a fun book with our kids before we went, called "Paris" by Renzo Rossi. (New York : Enchanted Lion Books, 2003.) It had lots of illustrations, fun facts, etc. One picture was of the oldest houses in Paris--they are still there, said the book, at 11-13 Rue Francois Mirron. I love medieval stuff, so we went to see them. You can only look from the outside, so it's a quick stop, but it made an easy detour from the Marais walk, right after #6, "Rue Pavee". Maybe you could consider adding this in as an optional detour. We certainly found it interesting! There's also one of those fun plaques with Paris history in front (in French, of course). Thanks for considering my idea.
Laurie Zaepfel in St. Paul, MN USA 04/15/2011
We stayed at Hotel d'Angleterre, a block from Versailles. The top floor corner room was VERY QUIET & large. The bed was comfortable. Our travel companions had very small but comfortable & quiet rooms. No elevator. The desk clerk helped us find a parking spot & carried our bags to the top floor. The web site is www.hotel-angleterre-versailles.com. The room price total in March 2011 was 108. euros.
G Sellers in Melbourne , FL USA 04/14/2011
Academie de la Biere, just a couply blocks of the luxembourg gardens is a great place to try mussels and fries (they have 5 different broths to choose from) It is also the best Beer bar in Paris with a great selection of French and Belgian beers on tap. (and many more in bottle)
Joshua Leo in Grand Rapids, MI USA 04/11/2011
The recommendation of Elisabeth van Hest as a tour guide. She knew absolutely everything about everything of possible interest to tourist and/or history buff in Paris and France in general. She is extremely personable and attentive to the particular interests and needs of her 'charges'. She was always going above and beyond her guide 'duties' recommending and/or booking attractions, dinners, & transportation for us, even 'after hours'. Her fee was well worth every cent/Euro; her informative tours & friendship, priceless!
Gary in Clemmons, NC USA 04/11/2011
Hotel du College de France, 7 rue Thenard, in the Latin Quarter just a block off of Blvd. St. Germain (near metro Maubert Mutualite). A wonderful two-star hotel. Warm and friendly staff (all speak English), neat and clean rooms (free Wi-Fi and room safes), excellent breakfast (extra), great central location. I've been staying here every year for over ten years. It's my "home away from home" in Paris. Web site: www.hotel-collegedefrance.com Tel. +33(0) 1-43-26-78-36.
Ronald Sellers in San Antonio, TX USA 03/15/2011
Get the Museum Pass!! Lines are long. What a time-saver.
Lance Teruya in Ewa Beach, HI USA 02/23/2011
I would have Rick reccommend bringing a compass with you to urban destinations. His directions are great but if your in Paris in winter overcast I did not know which direction was "turn east" A little pocket compass would have made following the directions on his walk easier.
kevin in san diego, ca USA 02/06/2011
The restaurant, Chez les Fondues, at 17 Rue des Trois-Freres. It's only open for dinner and opens at 7 PM. Reservations are required, but we didn't call the day before we wanted to eat there and couldn't get through to them in the morning, so we stopped by exactly at 7 PM and they let us in. It's wonderfully fun, has a very reasonable cost, has only 2 dishes (beef fondue or cheese fondue), they take cash only, and we highly recommend the experience and food! Their # is 01-42-55-22-65.
Also, the Musee du Vin on Rue des Eaux, located about a 10 minute walk east of the Pont d'Lena, looked very interesting and appeared to have exquisite dinners. We found it our last night in Paris and didn't have time to go through the museum nor eat there, but would have liked to read about it in your book!
Alison Snow in Bellevue, WA USA 01/28/2011
I loved the Orsay, however I was just there and all of the Monet's were on loan so I missed all of them. However, due to this book I discovered Millett. I could have starred at his pantings for hours!
Chapel Ham in Bellville, TX USA 01/10/2011
Re museum pass in Paris: to get good value, careful planning is needed.The pass is useless for three of the most important museums, as the Louvre and Versailles require almost the whole day and the Carnevalet is free. Buying a ticket for the Louvre (as you suggest) at the tabac in the lower level of the Carousel is definitely the way to go.
Bob Falk in Sydney, Australia 01/08/2011
We discovered that the Eiffel Tour was closed when it was snowing, and the day afterwards, when it was clear, we could only ascend to the first level. We were told this was because they had to wait for the snow to melt on the higher levels so people wouldn't slip (not sure about that, since my French is basic, at best). The restaurant on the second level was also closed.
Phil in San Jose, CA USA 12/12/2010
Another option for touring the Louvre: Discovered a selection of about 30 'thematic trails' under activities on the louvre.fr web site. They vary from masterpieces of the Louvre to lions in sculpture, to Louvre-Outsize, many suitable for children also. Each trail describes the route and gives about 1/3 to 1/2 page description of the piece, allowing you to tour the Louvre at your own pace. Each has a suggested time frame of about 1 1/2 hours. We printed and followed the masterpieces trail as we had never been to the Louvre before, but could have handled another. The directions were clear and the notes informative but not too much.
B. Farnworth in Kelowna, BC Canada 11/20/2010
favorite discovery: Angelique's cafe on Rue de Rivoli, across from the jardin de tulieres. address: 226 rue de rivoli. this cafe has the most divine hot chocolate I have ever tasted! in fact, my mother and I both enjoyed it so much that we made an extra trip the next day in order to buy some to take home with us. also, I discovered a hotel that rick doesn't mention but really should. it is the Hotel du Cygne located in the 1st arrondisement. It is a wonderful, small hotel with the owner, Isabella, very hands on and extremely helpful and friendly. All the staff are lovely and help in any way they can; we got a double room for 79 euro a night on the website. they also offer a nice breakfast for 8 euro that beat out some of the local cafes. I highly recommend this hotel and hope that Rick checks it out and includes in future guidebooks.
Tresa Hibben in Portland, or USA 11/16/2010
Washcloth - Pack one! If you use a wash cloth when bathing or just freshening up you need to pack one. We have been traveling to Europe every year for the past 6 years and stayed at a variety of hotels in different countries and rarely do they provide wash cloths. It is odd that none of the guide books advise packing your own (we love Rick Steves' books, but he too leaves this out).
We were in Paris from October 16 to 27, 2010. Great trip! Rick Steves' book was invaluable. We pretty much did all his tours and used it in all the museums we went to. His recommendations were right on.
We were there during some of the strikes. It was inconvenient, but mostly no big deal. The trip from CDG airport into town caused some heartburn since the RER B from CDG stops in Gare du Nord and then goes back to CDG. A bunch of us tourists (about 20 on our train) were taken by surprise and got off at the next stop, back-tracked to Gare du Nord and had to hunt for the "other" RER B train that took us the rest of the way into Paris. That discontinuity in the line may or may not be a permanent artifact of the transit strike taking place while we were there.
We took a day trip to Versailles and got a similar surprise since the Versailles Rive Gauche station was closed. All the trains marked Vick or for Versailles RG went to Chantiers. All the tourists got disoriented since we were trying to figure out where we were and why the train was not continuing to the RG station. There was one obscure sign in the station explaining the situation and provided a map to walk to the palace. Once we got our bearings it was a 15 minute walk and not big deal. By that time we had learned to expect the unexpected in France. The purpose of the strike was to mess with the government and we were a pawn in the process. Enjoy Paris and press on.
Dino Piccione in Dumfries, VA USA 11/07/2010
Some attractions in Europe provide a discount to Auto Club members, including U.S. affiliates of the AAA. For example, I saw a decal on the ticket booth of the Montparnasse Tower that was red, white, and blue and looked somewhat like a U.S. AAA membership card, and it even said (in English) "Show Your Card and Save". I presented my CSAA card (California) and pointed to the decal. After some back and forth and reluctance the clerk agreed to give me a 20% discount. Upon returning from my trip and doing some research on the Internet, I discovered that the discount was entirely appropriate and the Tower was listed as a discount location. This might be worth researching and documenting in the various guidebooks, since other ticket discounts in Europe are less common, particularly for seniors, and the AAA discount is yet another way to make the euro stretch further consistent with the Rick Steves philosophy.
Erik Long in El Dorado Hills, CA USA 10/19/2010
Saint Denis, just north of Paris. The Basilica is the final resting place of all but three of the kings of France. It is one of the most fascinating places I have ever been to.
Anne Susag in Minneapolis, MN USA 10/19/2010
Picpus cemetery - has LaFayette's grave and other mass graves of people killed in the French Revolution; wonderfully quiet, not filled with tourists, easy to reach via the Metro on Line One, Metro stop Nation
Sylvia in Grant, WI USA 10/15/2010
Louvre Tour. Tip: Go to the information desk to find out the hours of the Napoleon III Apartments. These rooms are not to be missed. Also the Medieval Louvre area is finished now and are a fascinating view of the moat and palace walls. After about 3 hours of viewing the major works I like to have a quick lunch in the cafe next to the reception area. Lastly, don't miss the Second Floor. It contains Dutch, German and French paintings. You have to see the French female artist Elisabeth Vigee Le Brun who has 7 paintings in the Louvre.About 6 hours is my limit in the museum. Some paintings may be on loan so you cannot see everything on one trip .
Anderson in Portland, OR USA 10/13/2010
Paris
Diana Reynolds in Wailuku, HX USA 10/07/2010
Although a museum pass will help you to avoid buying tickets, you still have to wait in very long security lines. Once in the museum, the ticket lines are quite short.
Jennifer Brush in Cleveland, OH USA 10/06/2010
The Scots Kirk in Paris, 17 rue Bayard off the Champs Elysees. This was the church that Eric Liddell preached at on the Sunday when he refused to run in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Church services are on Sundays at 11:00.
Carol Thomson in Orlando, FL USA 10/05/2010
Place de la Madeleine is great for foodies, had a lovely lunch at Hediard, bought some wine and gathered a picnic feast. Bought some gifts including honey, chocolates and mustard.
Kim in Rome, IL USA 10/04/2010
Hello, It would be very helpful to have a printable bike map for Paris... in English (there is one in French through another website). I think it would be very useful for foreigners to have a specific map pertaining to bike-riders. The bike map of my dreams for Paris would contain some simple guidelines and expectations when riding bikes in this lovely, yet confusing city. It would contain helpful tips on how not be hit by small cars. The map I envision would have ten suggestions from Parisians themselves. (This is how I learned the rules of bike riding in Paris... by asking the well-seasoned biking commuters living in Paris. The Fat Tire Company gives you a few basic suggestions and arms you with the Printemps Map, which is a very useful map, in general. However, it doesn't address the bikers' needs to be wary and understanding of Parisian traffic. An outline of specific bike lanes will be on this future map I want to make. Let me know if you want me to help create one! Thank you for all the suggestions and extremely useful information in Rick Steves' Paris 2010. Sincerely, Ann Katsikapes , email: ahkatsikapes@gmail.com phone: 360-301-0585
ann katsikapes in port hadlock, wa USA 09/27/2010
We loved the restaurant Chez Flottes on Rue Cambon(01.42.60.80.89). Also we found the best thing to do for breakfast was to get Coffee and Coissants "to go" at a place called the Buffeteria on Rue De Rivoli across from the Tuileries Garden and walk across the street and eat in the park. The Buffeteria's coffee and Coissants was surprisingly good and we became regulars. The service was also great and they spoke English.
Terry in Virgina Beach, Va USA 09/18/2010
Reader Trish wrote "...Readers visiting Versailles should know that you can use a Paris metro ticket to get there but not to return..."
Be careful- this could get you fined! Yes, it is true that the standard Paris Metro ticket (the Euro 1.70 single ride ticket) will get you onto the RER train bound for Versailles from any RER station in the Paris City zone. HOWEVER, Versailles is well outside the Metro Paris City zone and if you are queried for your ticket by a conductor, you are in trouble. They take no excuses and treat this the same as if you had boarded without a ticket. The full fare from Paris to Versailles on the RER is only Euro 3.05 each way, or Euro 6.10 round trip. The savings by cheating with a Metro ticket aren't worth the risk.
Dave K. in Atlanta, GA USA 09/18/2010
Taking a private tour of Versailles costs just a few euros more than the regular admission, and it provides access to many rooms that are not available on the usual tour. It is also a quieter, more informative way to learn about the chateau.
Diana Lucio in Alexandria, VA USA 08/16/2010
Taking a private tour of Versailles costs just a few extra euros more than the regular admission, and it provides access to many rooms that are not available on the usual tour. It is also a quieter, more informative way to learn about the chateau.
Diana Lucio in Alexandria, VA USA 08/16/2010
A wonderful 3-star hotel by Gare de L'Est & within walking distance is the Hotel Villa St. Martin. Definitely away from the tourist traps, but within short distance from the canal, several good local restaurants & a small supermarket (across the canal). We stayed here for 7 nights & will def. stay here again. Found this hotel when we booked our airfare with British Air. They even have Air Conditioning! A traditional continental breakfast is 10 Euros/person. The canal is a great spot to have a picnic, or unwind after a busy day site-seeing.
Joe Staniszewski in Lansdale, PA USA 08/08/2010
I brought back for my mother some chocolates from La Mere de Famille Gourmand Chocolats Confiseries in the Rue Cler area. She said they were the best chocolates she had ever tasted. Also while we were in Paris we bought ice cream several times at the same store. It was delicious.
Rich Swiergula in Aberdeen, WA USA 08/02/2010
Readwers visiting Versailles should know that you can use a Paris metro ticket to get there but not to return. Late in the afternoon the train station is very busy. Best to purchase a return ticket from the travel/SNCF office in the row of shops on the left just before you reach the huge courtyard in front of the palace.
Trish Ellis in WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC USA 08/01/2010
Tips on using the Paris Velib bike system: 1. The American Express Blue card has a chip and will work in the machine 2. The cost for a week's pass is cheap: something like 5 Euros which entitles you to unlimited rides of 30 mins or less with extra half hour costing 1 Euro. 3. Follow the instructions to get your pass. Don't be afraid to ask another patron for help if need be) 4. Check out the available bikes before you rent them: squeeze the tires, look at the spokes, etc. If the seats are turned around, that's a sign for a broken bike. 5. Sometimes returning a bike can be tough as return slots can be filled at your target destination. If that happens, log into the Velib kiosk with your user id and password. That will give you another free 15 minutes to find an alternative location and show you a map with free slots nearby. 6. If you have an iPhone or an iPod with wifi capability and can get it connected to the internet, there is an app available at a nominal cost that you can pre-program with your favorite Velib stations. This would be an easy way to find stations with open slots. 7. We would take off on foot from our apartment and walk to our day's destination and use the Velib to bike "home." It was great to sit down on the bike after a long walk and still get to take in the great Paris sites versus taking the Metro back.
The Velib is a fun and inexpensive way to enhance your visit to this great City. Enjoy!
Dan Anderson in Concord, CA USA 07/31/2010
We bought Rick's 2010 books on France and Paris. We took the Paris book with us and found it very valuable to carry around. Because we're amusement park and roller coaster fans, we looked for information on Parc Asterix in the Paris book and found nothing, even in the section about kids. We loved the park and found it better overall than Parc Disneyland. I think Rick needs to include information about it in his next book so that parents know there is another option besides the house of the mouse.
Sharon Bond in Dayton, OH USA 07/13/2010
Restaurant "Le Soufflot Cafe". It was good, as described, BUT we were not happy that the waiter brought large size drinks at 9 euros each, when we didn't ask for large. In fact, I specifically asked for "petite".
David Truman in Langley, BC Canada 07/11/2010
Cafe Roussilon, corner of Rue Cler and Rue de Grenelle, provided great salads (under 12e), service and ambience.
Pam in Eugene, OR USA 06/26/2010
As usual, Rick's guidebook was EXACTLY what I needed to plan my 10-day Paris trip with my 18 year old daughter. It made for a memorable trip. We also used the I-Pod downloads (for Paris Historic Walk, Louvre, Versailles, Orsay)and that made it so easy. And (as your guidebook warned) we were targeted by one of the Scams (the dropped gold ring) - so I just said "No" and ignored the woman (it happened when we were walking along the Seine).
Vicki in Portland, OR USA 06/25/2010
Just follow this book... it really helped us tremendously. I scored some points just because I had read this book before reaching Paris.
sdamle in Atlanta, GA USA 06/22/2010
I just want to THANK YOU! for the suggestions and historical tidbits. One of my travel companions happened to have your 2008 edition in tote and the walking tours of Isle de citie and Monmarte were phenomenal. Truly, your guide made our trip to one the the most wonderful cities all the better, dare i say PERFECT-- Thanks Rick!
Lacey in Harrisburg, PA USA 06/15/2010
Thanks for including the Guimet in this edition! I missed seeing it in the 2006 book. LOVED the Musee Branley Quai -- the outside wall garden is spectacular, and the structure and the content of the museum is highly unusual.
Marilyn R. in Waterville, ME USA 06/14/2010
Money belt! Thank you Rick, I've finally had a worry-free trip to Paris because of the security of the money belt. It really is tremendous for nervous travellers in a city of scams & pickpockets; I so wish I'd known of it long ago.
Museum pass: I bought it on arrival at Gare du Nord (booth near track 19, credit card only). Excellent for museum-hoppers. Skipped long line at Orsay completely. Woohoo!
Buses: get a bus map, and use them whenever you can. Metro is efficient but so dingy, and lots of stairs. On the bus you have a view, in a city full of great sights, both day and night.
Kevin in Princeton, NJ USA 06/12/2010
I went to Paris last month. We stayed one week in Rue Cler & one week in Marais. Loved both neighborhoods-- Marais a bit more as it seemed more "real".
Jody in Long Beach, Ca USA 06/11/2010
I loved it all; the guidebook was right on the money.
John. T Dukes in Richfield, OH USA 06/09/2010
Perhaps include more information about the new bike plan in Paris - there seem to be stations everywhere, and the bike time seems to be reasonably priced. Lots of streets seem safe for city biking, and trails through some of the parks and along some of the streets. I would utilize this on my next trip for sure!
Judith Beck in Perkasie, PA USA 05/29/2010
Whoops! I just submitted a bunch of Paris comments under "France" Hope you can retrieve them and put them in proper place. Or, I can re-do if necessary.
Judith Beck in Perkasie, PA USA 05/29/2010
My favorite neighborhood during this two week trip was Le Marais. I enjoyed the Jewish Art and History Museum, but I liked the Holocaust Memorial even more. This Holocaust Memorial merges respect and dignity with historical accuracy. Finally the story of the deportation of French Jews is told. I enjoyed this memorial more than the Jewish Art and History Museum. The L'As du Falafel is not to be missed! A good, inexpensive, and enjoyable lunch.
Ann Chirhart in Terre Haute, IN USA 05/28/2010
On p. 9 of the 2010 edition, you suggest taking out large sums of money at an ATM to avoid more bank fees. This is good--except that often the ATM gives you very large (100) bills, that you then have to go have broken into smaller bills.
David in Houston, TX USA 05/22/2010
Recommend adding the following restaurant for a casual meal after visiting Sacre Coeur. Located right at the bottom of the stairs near the funicular train. Very good service, cozy atmosphere, nice wood fired pizza.
Four Saisons Pizza Owner is Mr. Azzam and Marcus was the server; Address: 4.Rue Tardieu 75018 Paris Tel: 014 2570941 - 0620046572
Bret Williams in Honolulu, HI USA 05/20/2010
Versailles - we got there before the 9:00 open just like Rick said. We were very excited that there were only a few people in line until it became obvious that they weren't going to open any time soon. Workers were milling around but they spoke french so you really couldn't understand what they were saying. However, There was a sign at the entrance that said "industrial delays" which we eventually learned meant the workers were on strike! Would have been nice to know that in advance. We wandered down to the village to have a cafe and they told us it should open around 11:00. Welcome to France!
wayne fritz in columbia, sc USA 05/14/2010
The best tip I got from a friend is to go to the web site of every single place you plan to visit in Europe and re-check opening times and check on potential holiday closings. I discovered that Versailles is turning on their fountains an extra day each week, which gave us more flexibility in using our Museum Pass efficiently.
Joy Lambert in Vero Beach, FL USA 05/06/2010
Batobus in Paris is great mode of transportation for those who can't do a ton of walking, do a ton of stairs and can't take the jostling and jerking on metro and trains. My sister has a really bad back and this worked really well once we discovered it.
Patricia Morgan in Seattle, WA USA 05/01/2010
We had a wonderful one week vacation that turned into 2 weeks due to the Iceland volcano! We visited every chapter in Rick's book (thank heaven we had it to fall back on for extra sights)but our favorites were Napoleon's tomb and Sacre-Cour. The bus system and subways were very easy to use!
Jan Fisk in Springfield, MO USA 05/01/2010
Unlike many destinations, Paris has customs and rules-of-the-road that don't bend much. If you're willing to give in and do things the Parisian way (there are tips in the guide), you'll have a much more enjoyable experience in the city. Also, dress up a little in order to fit in. Wearing sweats and other typical super-casual clothes doesn't cut it in Paris. Ok, now get over there and have a great time!
Druu in Buena Park, CA USA 04/22/2010
We had a stroller with us for our youngest child and were able to go get right in without standing in line at both the Louvre and the Orsay museums.
Carolyn Sterett in Swansboro, NC USA 04/14/2010
Please list VRBO.COM where many of us offer great rental apartments for folks. We rented twice through them, and now list our own with them and their sister site HomeAway.com. There is a great range of choices, and the site provides plenty of detail on each listing.
Not sure why you don't give some taxi phone numbers for heading back to the airport. Taxis Bleus is all automated so you don't even need to speak French.
Grant Wiggins in Hopewell, NJ USA 04/13/2010
The book is indispensable!! As it is quite heavy, what I did was to rip out each section and carry the chapter on our journeys, rather than the whole book.
Margaret in Piedmont, CA USA 04/06/2010
Montmartre Walk--When tourist gets off at the Anvers Metro Stop, recommend that they take the elevator like the local people and not the stairs. It will save about 150-200 steps!!
Bob Galante in Farmington, Ct USA 04/04/2010
For day trips to the D-Day Beaches, please add Sabine Le Duault to your guide book! She is a lovely guide who deserves mention because she personifies "Europe through the back door" AND she is VERY reasonably priced. We got a fully customized tour (for the Americans & Canadians in our group) for a VERY similar price we would have paid for a herd-mentality trip on a giant bus. Please contact her to learn more: www.paris-authentique.com www.paris-chevreuse.com
Shelley Roberts in Bothell, WA USA 04/03/2010
Great taxi company in Paris: G7 Taxi - Telephone Number 01-41-27-66-99 They are English speaking, extremely reliable, and very helpful. Our taxi driver called the airport to find out what terminal we needed to leave from and walked in with us to make sure it was correct. I recommend them highly.
Vivian Vandersloot in Idaho Falls, ID USA 03/29/2010
If you are in Rue Cler area, the number 92 bus goes east to Gare Mountparnasse and west through the Arc de Triomphe. It crosses the #69 at St. Dominique and Bosquet.
Larry Nielsen in Golden Valley, MN USA 03/18/2010
St Merry's hotel in west Marais section, next door to St Merry's church and two blocks from Pompidou. For walkers, we could easily walk to Louvre, Marais, Notre Dame and Left Bank. Clean rooms, friendly staff. Hôtel Saint Merry www.hotelmarais.com
78 Rue de la Verrerie 75004 Paris, France 01 42 78 15 41
Biggest surprise was Cluny, loved the audioguide
Loved your museum tours-cluny, louvre, orsay (although many things had moved), orangerie, carnavalet (you were right the first floor was a mess, we met you at 45), rodin Loved the historical walk
David Neely in Chicago, IL USA 01/31/2010
Paris 2010 on page 29 states that the "Paris Visite Pass' for tourists is for minor reductions at minor sites. All my inquiries state that the pass is also good for all bus, metro, and RER travel.
Michael A Brown in Tucson, AZ USA 01/28/2010
The tip about taking the buses was worth the price of the book. We took at least a half-dozen buses, including the Montmartrobus and the 69. The subway has great connectivity but buses can be faster because they're more direct, and even if they aren't faster you're sightseeing at the same time so they're worth it.
The Montmartobus route is a loop, but the trip isn't a loop. If you get on at Place Pigalle, then you have to get off at Rue Hermel.
Ripping the books into sections as recommended made them much more useful though it felt sacreligious. It was like having a slew of useful pamphlets that could easily be slipped into a pocket. There were only a couple of times I wished I had more sections, but many times that I was able to pull out my little pamphlet when the full book would have been too obstrusive.
Rick in Seattle, WA USA 01/13/2010
alan verson in northampton, ma USA 01/12/2010
At Sainte Michelle, stand in line for the Palais De Justice security check. After you breeze past the 100+ standing in line for Sainte Chapelle, look around the common courtyard for the entrance to Saint Chapelle, flash your museum pass and stroll right in.
At the Conciergerie, show your museum pass at the white side door and bypass the regular line.
If you are staying a week or so buy metro carnet (10 tickets) at a time. We used 3 total (30 tickets, cost 35 euro total) for 2 people in 1 week.
Rent an apartment with parisattitude.com. We had a great apartment with well-stocked kitchen in the 5th. Will plan on renting again next time we go, so that we can shop at the markets and cook our own great dinners.
A in D, TX USA 01/05/2010
Laura Pratt in Dallas, TX USA 01/02/2010
I met the guide below at the Notre Dame. He did a great job for 30 euros for two people. He did basically what’s in Rick's Historic Paris Walk. With a few extras. Bertrand BLACHE +33 (0)6 17 58 16 36 bertrandblache@yahoo.fr
Robby in Dallas, Ga USA 11/22/2009
I noticed some folks had problems bringing back those "tempting little tins of foie gras". At CDG airport you can buy them duty free which we did along with a large number of other items from the big name stores and carried them on board. Entering Canada they checked it out but it was fine as long as not opened.
Charlie Galan in Nanaimo, BC Canada 11/13/2009
Late October. The Taxi ride from CDG to the 7th took an hour and cost 55 euros. It was rush hour, around 9AM, weekday, and RER was on partial strike resulting in terrible traffic. The Taxi ride from the hotel to CDG, 8AM weekday, took 30 minutes and cost 62 euros(!?). Taking a taxi to/from CDG is the way to go, unless you don't mind climbing metro stairs with luggage after a long flight. Just wanted to share what we paid. The trip as a whole, due in part to Rick's great recommendations, was memorable and AWESOME!
Travis Well in Dallas, TX USA 11/07/2009
Yen - 22 rue Saint-Benoit 75006, TEL 01 45 44 11 18 exceptional Japanese food - truly a great experience
Mai Tai (Vietnamese restaurant) 1, Rue Villehardouin 75003 Paris, France +33 1 42 72 18 77
Exceptional Vietnamese food and very fun experience. Definitely need reservations.
Chez Omar 47, Rue de Bretagne 75003 Paris, France +33 1 42 72 36 26 This was recommended by David Lebovitz, well-known cookbook writer and expat living in Paris. If you love couscous and ratatouille, this is your place. Absolutely packed with locals of all ages at lunchtime. It was a treat to see the elderly, very refined Parisians who had obviously been coming here for ages. Steak au poivre was out of this world. Very fine dining, very worth the experience.
evelyn in dallas, tx USA 10/30/2009
Frankly, cannot stand the baby coffee caffeine jolts served in most of Paris, but thank goodness for Starbucks. From Grand Hotel Leveque, there's one on Rue St. Dominique - go right out the door, past Rue De Grenelle to next block (a long block) and turn right - it's on the left hand side a 100 feet or so (also a good pastry shop at the corner of Rue Cler and Rue St. Dominique). We don't like Starbucks regular coffee (too strong for us), but just ordered that and poured in lots of half and half (along with powdered French Vanilla creamer we bring along on trips), and we had our "normal" coffee fix every morning. Note that it doesn't open until 7:30 am (8:30 am on Sundays).
Michael in Charlotte, NC USA 10/21/2009
Taxis from/to airports are WAY underrated. We got 4 people from DeGaulle to Grand Hotel Leveque, with extra charges added in and tip, for 50 Euros - walked right out of airport with baggage, found cab willing to take 4 people right away (first available cab, which was rather small, said no). Granted, that was early in the morning on a Saturday - returning to DeGaulle following Sunday morning, with much heavier traffic and charge rung up when cab arrived (meter runs from starting point of where cab is at when it goes to pick you up), with 6 bags and tip, still came up to only 62 Euros, and you simply cannot beat the convenience. If you have 4 people or more traveling, particularly if one or more are older, I highly recommend just taking a cab.
Michael in Charlotte, NC USA 10/21/2009
BEST PART of Versailles is the Queen's Hamlet.
Kirsten T in San Francisco, CA USA 10/19/2009
a restaurant called L'Etape on Rue de la Convention -- just a small place with maybe 8 tables, and I think the husband is the chef and the wife is the hostess/waitress/cashier. Fabulous, authentic French food -- but they don't speak very much English!
Laralyn Sasaki in Columbus, OH USA 10/09/2009
Had a great time in Paris, due in part to Rick's book on the subject. Enjoyed using the RER and the Metro. Others have said buy a Carnet, I agree. We did the Open Top hop-on hop-off bus tour, which is a great way to see the city. Be warned however, that the tour can end at any point around 6:30 pm, leaving you wondering how to get back where you started. In addition to the maps in Rick's book, pick up a copy of the "Paris Tourisme Travel Kit". Has a great map of the city including the Metro and RER routes. Would like to report that the "found ring" scam (page 24) is alive and well. Being aware of this scam ahead of time was helpful. Other helpful tips in the book: travel light and have a good pair of walking shoes. Wish we had more time to do the Bus #69 tour. Next time. We're going back, for sure!
S Heath in Issaquah, WA USA 09/30/2009
classictic.com-We've attended concerts offered by this company twice before in Rome and Florence. When they offered another opportunity in Paris we purchased tickets again. We were not disappointed when we attended a performance by a string quartet playing works by Vivaldi in St. Chapelle. St. Chapelle is under reconstruction and was a little rough but the musicians were flawless and the sound vibrating around the St. Chapelle's natural acoustics was shear joy to the ears.
furnacefighter in Philadelphia, PA USA 09/26/2009
Loved using the 2009 book this August. I might add that a side trip to St-Denis was inspiring and well worth the metro ride. It is not only the first Gothic building, but it is the royal burial place of all the kings of France.
John Nici in Rego Park, NY USA 09/22/2009
Le Loup Blanc and Osteria Ruggera Restaurants in Quartier Montorgueil are fantastic with great service.
Dawn in St. Paul, MN USA 09/19/2009
Le Petit Plateau 1 Quai aux Fleurs 75004 Paris tel 01 44 076186
This little place was just t the entrance of Il de la Cite, near Notre Dame. 2 blocks or so.
Wonderful tarts, tea and salads. Rhubarb tart was lovely. Good place for a rest and a snack!
Carla in Hollister, CA USA 09/17/2009
Credit union ATM cards, as Rick suggests, are inexpensive alternatives to using either your bank's ATM card or a credit card to get cash in the local currency. I opened an account at a local US credit union and got an ATM card that is valid at ATMs that are a part of the Cirrus or Star networks, which most European ATMs are. The credit union charges $1 per transaction and there is no currency conversion fee. If the European bank's ATM charges a transaction fee, you'll see that posted on the ATM's screen. Bank ATMs in the UK do not charge a fee. The credit union asked me when I would be in Europe so that they knew to expect multiple withdrawals from my account. Check with your local credit union before you leave for Europe. Do this well in advance of your trip, since it may take several weeks to get your ATM card and PIN.
Emerson Smith in Columbia, SC USA 09/17/2009
best/cheapest place for souvenirs probably Montmartre
Andrew in Ottawa, ON Canada 09/15/2009
This is more of a fan letter- I require my students to buy your guidebooks (London, Paris, french phrasebook) they make our trip successful and the kids love them. They have turned "Ricksteves" into a verb, as in "I rickstevesed that last night, and he says we should...."
Sandra Williams in Lincoln, NE USA 09/09/2009
Regarding Paris Private Shuttle: Three of us just returned from Paris and used this service. It was wonderful. We were, as their website says, met at the baggage claim area. We had great, personable drivers to and from the airport and were given a tour as we made our way to the hotel in the Latin Quarter. I highly recommend this service
Lisa Kibler in Kent, Oh USA 08/26/2009
Rick always says to "check with the T.I.", and he's right. I found out the hard way that the new Musee du Quai Branley often doesn't open until 11:00 AM (It's a long hike from the Metro, and lots of walking when you get inside), and that large parts of the Louvre's French painting (upstairs, not the big gallery with the oversize monuments to French painting...) galleries at the Louvre are closed on Thursday. If you buy a Museum Card, don't forget to set aside a day the card doesn't cover to hit the sights that it doesn't admit you to. Alas, these include the trendy Jeu de Paume, and most private museums (like Jacquemart-André), and the Eiffel Tower. The card does get you into the Louvre's separate Musée des Arts décoratifs, which is very much worth several hours if you have the time. It's an astonishing collection. I didn't get to try the associated fashion museum (la Mode et du textile).
Timothy Buchman in Wyckoff, NJ USA 08/06/2009
The Marais District is to us, the heart of the city. Lenotre saved us.........regarding good food.
Terri Bonner in Little Rock, AR USA 08/02/2009
Honfleur has a fabulous Saturday morning farmer's market. Hotel Monet was very charming and owners Christoph and Sylvie were so friendly and helpful. The whole town is beautiful and easy to walk everywhere. Definitely worth the visit.
Barbara J. in San Diego, CA USA 07/30/2009
I recommend you had the restaurant 7eme Sud to your guidebook. It is conveniently located near rue Cler, the prices are reasonable, the mediterranean menu is fantastic, and the service is wonderful. In fact our server, while French, spent most of his childhood in Detroit and spoke perfect English.
Colleen Earls in Vancouver, WA USA 07/29/2009
Echoing what others have said here, Coreen Samo at 1 rue du Champs de Mars is a fantastic and authentic Korean restaurant - we had the Korean BBQ which you grill at your table, and it was incredible...Rick, be sure to check this place out on your next visit.
John Russell in Charlottesville, VA USA 07/29/2009
sandie5740@gmail.com PARIS 2009
sandie carpenter in WHITEFISH, MT USA 07/27/2009
The free ITunes travel podcasts were invaluable and made touring the Louvre, d'Orsay, and Versailles very enjoyable!
Carol N. in Newport News, VA USA 07/27/2009
1.L'as Falaphel, in the Marais is to die for. Pay a little more but go inside and sit down to eat.
2. Take Rick's advice on early entry to the Louvre and Versaille. Both were a breeze using the books advice. We were in the Hall of Mirrors alone, except for the guard.
Steve Roddy in Penn Valley, CA USA 07/24/2009
I am just wondering why Rick does not recommend staying/eating in the Latin Quarter? I have stayed there twice in the Hotel du Levant and it is a fantastic hotel. There are many cheap food stands nearby, including a fantastic falafel place called Maoz Falafel (5.50 Euros for falafel pita with your choice of vast toppings). There are also Metro stops within 1 block, and many attractions (Notre Dame, St. Chappelle, etc.) are right there. I did not see the big draw of the Rue Cler area...don't know why Rick touts this area so much, but that is just my opinion.
I bought my Paris Museum Pass (4 days was 48 Euros) at the Pantheon and they did not stamp the date on the back. My sister bought hers at Notre Dame and they did stamp the date. Cheap cold soft drinks in the Metro stations for 2E, although I found cheaper food/snacks at a Monoprix store-you can buy toiltries, etc. here, too. Friendship bracelet scam still going on at Sacre Coeur as well as countless gypsy women asking you if you speak English. Did not see the ring scam
Joy in Dayton, OH USA 07/23/2009
To get the most out of the Paris Museum Pass, you really need to plan ahead as Rick states in his book. The pass is great for skipping the ticket lines, which can be long at many sights, but if you're only planning to visit a few sights, it's actually more cost-effective to purchase regular admission tickets.
Victor & Pam in Mundelein, IL USA 07/15/2009
While Paris truly needs to be explored on foot, I strongly urge travelers to use the Metro system as much as possible. The system is incredibly efficient and most sights can be reached by one connection at the most. You will also ride the trains with the people that make Paris so diverse and you will feel like a local. Please also definitely buy a carnet - you will use all of them and you will save money!
Alaina in Scarsdale, NY USA 07/12/2009
Les relais de l'Entrecote, 15 rue Marbeuf. This was a big hit with our grandchildren and the adults. One meuu except for dessert. One price. No reservations so you have to wait in line. We were a party of 7 and had to wait about 40 minutes but they set a tale for us. This location is just off Champ Elysees but there are other locations.
Jeanette Finlon in Seattle, WA USA 07/09/2009
The rooms on the 5th floor street side at the Grand Hotel Leveque have a small balcony . Cool place to drink wine & watch Paris go by . You can also see the top of the tower as it sparkles at 23:00 .
MIKE DEMPSEY in WESTMINSTER, MD USA 07/07/2009
Forgot to add one note:
On the "Sleeping near Charles de Gaulle Airport" section - Page 437 - You may want to mention that people staying in hotels in Roissy who don't want to pay hotel restaurant prices can walk a short distance to the town itself. We had a great pizza picnic the last night of our trip, but only because I used the hotel Wifi to look on Google Earth and see there was a town just beyond the trees (the Kyriad Prestige makes no mention of it, hoping you'll go to their restaurant)
Jack Martin in Lawrence, KS USA 06/28/2009
Musee Guimet -- Asia art museum, better collection of South Asian art than the Metropolitan in New York.
Art Lover in New York, NY USA 06/26/2009
Yes. You recommend taking $500 with you to Paris, then say that using an ATM without taking out over 100 E is a waste of time. How do you exchange the American dollars quickly and easily without going to a bank? The answer is to go to any "change" (equals change in English) store which abound in Paris. A typical street would have at least 2. So, if you take $500, you get back the equivalent in euros minus a 2% charge. the more money you exchange, the less the charge. At the end of the trip, we converted leftover euros back to dollars, saving some for the internet cafes inCDG airport.
Elisse in Roanoke, VA USA 06/24/2009
Follow as many of the guided walks and tours (especially the the audio tours we had on an iPod) you can. We did most of them within one week and felt like we had an complete experience.
Henry Powell in Millersville, MD USA 06/22/2009
The Eiffel Tower at night. Sunset is about 10:30 pm. If you climb the first stage of the tower and then take the elevator to the 2nd around 9 pm, you miss the lines. Have dinner at the restaurant (58 floor?) and watch the sun set. Some what pricey but well worth it.
Susan in Center Harbor, NH USA 06/20/2009
Champ du Mars is always nice during summer nights. Unlike the Trocadero side of the Eiffel Tower, it's not overrun by tourists, just a lot of people picnicking.
Joel in Seattle, WA USA 06/19/2009
The whole Paris experience.
Melinda Grow in Davis, CA USA 06/13/2009
We loved the Tour de la Eiffel hotel in the located between rue Cler and the Eiffel Tower. The staff was helpful, friendly, and professional. The location was wonderful.
Krstin in Richfield, MN USA 06/12/2009
Just got back from Paris, 6/10...Le Passport to Versailles no longer sold as of 1/09...found out at a RER station. Did do the guided tour at Versailles..Rick was right about going in to the side entrance, as if cutting line...we ended up finding the exit area...and walked right up to the Information desk to get our tickets and reserve an a personal guided tour. It allowed us to wander around on our own to get the lay of the palace, if you will...and then go back to hear the rooms we visited (which others could not on the audio guided tour) -- our guide was extremely informative. ALSO...a note on travelling with teens, the museums we visited (I took my daughter who is 15) she was free...) - Children under 18 in most cases were free...but DO bring an ID. (We visited the Lourvre, Orsay, Orangerie, Versailles, Napoleon's tomb)---however, they still have to pay for the 'audio' guide part.
Jill in Jupiter, FL USA 06/11/2009
Chateau de Vincennes. If you are fond of medieval history visit this castle. It has a great audioguide and is worth about a 2 or 3 hour tour. Easy access from Metro Chateau Vincennes. Open daily 10 to 6. Tip number two: The Petit Palais. This is a beautifully remodeled museum that has one of the best garden cafes you will ever see. Free admission. Metro: Champs Elysees Clemenceau. Daily 10 to 6.
Anderson in Portland, OR USA 06/04/2009
We stayed at the Hotel Kensington -- very satisfactory. However, we had breakfast at a Brasserie around the corner -- Le Royal. Slightly better price and much more atmosphere. Same food, but more generous portions at the Brasserie!
Jim Gauntt in Little Rock, AR USA 06/01/2009
Bike About Tours was a great bike trip in Paris. Enthusiastic guide who love the city, lunch in a bakery, history and art, wonderful. Website: www.bikeabouttours.com . Tele: 33(0)624 58 02 15.
Claire in Woodbridge, VA USA 05/26/2009
Having the Paris 2009 book on an iPod Touch (using Kindle format) was fantastic!
We just returned from a week in Paris and it is so much easier to carry an iPod around to read, especially the chapters for museum tours. Before going out, we'd bookmark the page for the info we needed!
All of your guidebooks should be available for Kindle/iPod Touch/iPhone!
Cameron in Chapel Hill, NC USA 05/14/2009
A great day (and easy Metro navigation) starts with breakfast on the lawn of Parc du Champs de Mars, Trocadero, metro to Arc de Triomphe, same metro line to Parc Monceau, same metro line to Montmarte and Sacre Coeur, then easy metro switch to Louvre - full but great day.
Doug Wall in Winfield, IL USA 05/11/2009
I arrived in Paris on May 1 at the Gare de Lyon. Because of the Labor Day protests, my cab driver said that he couldn't take us to our hotel (in the St. Germaine area). We pleaded with him to try a different route, anything to get us closer to our destination (note that he did not announce this as soon as we got into his cab. This was after we had been enroute for some time.) He ended up dropping me and my 79- year-old mother off at the Les Goblins Metro stop and told us to take the Metro to our destination. There was no way that we could take the Metro, given we had luggage and my mother's age. So, we walked the entire distance. It took us two hours and we had a terrible time trying to cross main streets due to the protests. I don't know what the caution is here - perhaps don't travel on holidays? It was a terrible experience that I wouldn't wish on anyone else.
Joanne in San Francisco, CA USA 05/10/2009
I bought a Passe Navigo for the almost-a-month that I was in Paris. It took only a couple of minutes to buy and get on my way. It is necessary to have your picture trimmed to about 1" square and ready to hand to the agent when you make your purchase. The pass is enclosed in hard plastic after the picture and your name are affixed, so be prepared. The monthly pass (mensuelle) was 55.10 Eu plus 5 Eu for the pass itself. It works by swiping a reader at the entry gates in the Metro and also on buses. Even tho I probably didn't save much money, the convenience of having a pass was worth it. Now I have to go back to Paris so I can use it again. I believe you can use the Passe Navigo only for a week (beginning Mondays), a month (beginning the first) or maybe a year. There are machines for re-loading the pass, or ticket agents will do that. Anyone who has used the Oyster card in London will find the Passe Navigo similar. I don't think it can be used in a "pay as you go" fashion. The carnets are still used for that.
Swan in Napa, CA USA 05/01/2009
The Batobus (boat) is a hop-on-hop-off excursion boat that stops at a number of the top sites. With a Passe Navigo you can get a discount. I paid 13 Eu for a 5-day pass and used it every day. The boats run at least every half hour. The glass roof panels slide back when it is warm enough, so you don't get that "greenhouse effect."
Swan in Napa, CA USA 05/01/2009
We had a heck of a time getting our clothes washed. Luckily, a young French man who spoke broken English came in about 30 minutes later and rescued us. He told us how to load our money, choose the washer and dryer, select the right washing cycle, and pour our detergent (we had already put our soap in the wrong dispenser!). Very confusing -- and very different from our laundromats back home. We even took pictures!
Suzanne J. in Angleton, TX USA 04/21/2009
I found that Le Pain Quotidien a bakery out of Belgium has the best sandwiches,organic breads and other products. I go here in the USA to have my taste of European flavor. They are a few locations in Paris. Visit www.lepainquotidien.com.
Also you can listen to NRJ and Cherie FM online to get a taste of French music. www.cheriefm.fr and click on the ecuter(listen button) as well as NRJ.fr and find the ecuter(listen button). A nice way to hear European music online..
If you are a Priority Pass member you can access airline lounges at CDG airport via www,prioritypass.com to find the lounges at CDG. Its a nice way to relax before or after the flight depending on the lounge location. Some Platinum Credit Cards like American Express also let the cardholders into airline lounges such as American Airlines and Delta worldwide.
Daniel Onn in Sarattoga, CA USA 04/16/2009
Accomodation: Le Village Hostel in the Montmarte area, close to the Sacre-Coeur. Nice location, English speaking staff, kitchen and good breakfast and a great view of the SacreCouer to boot (from rooms 405,406)
Cons: Wifi is not free Contact: 01 42 64 22 02, Email: bonjour@villagehostel.fr, Web: http://www.villagehostel.fr/ Address: 20, rue d'Orsel, Paris 75018, France
Sathish Jothikumar in Santa Clara, CA USA 04/09/2009
Correction I left out a part of park name,it is Parc Des Buttes Chaumont'
Phillip Pelch in Houston, tx USA 03/29/2009
I would like to recommend an addition to your great Paris guidebook. The 'Parc Des Chaumant' is as great and beautiful park as you will find,waterfalls,small lake,creek,a promomtory with a statute on top and a view of Montmare and Sacre Coure from the top. It is on the M-5 Lumiere Metro stop. Also when you get off Metro go left to the best bakery in Paris! A small place but the best eclairs,tarts I have ever eaten.The owner a lady speaks no English so just point to what you want! When you go to Versailles and it's crowded go first to Marie Antoinette's 'Domaine' and surrounding gardens and bypass main palace, then go to palace second
Phillip Pelch in Houston, TX USA 03/29/2009
I spent a month in Paris with my sister who uses a wheelchair. We went to visit Musee Carnavalet in the heart of the Marais as it was mentioned in Rick's book as a place to enjoy. We were not permitted to make use of the elevator so my sister struggled up the great staircase while I carried her travel wheelchair (small wheels). We examined all the items on the top floor that were listed in the guidebook and enjoyed the explanations. The museum itself wrote up tags only in French. We were alone walking around except for the guard who had been watching us study so many items using our own book. When it came time to go back downstairs we were stopped by the guard and he motioned us to the elevator. He smiled as he bid us adieu and on the way down some other persons got on with us looking so surprised to find us there. We used our best French to explain and later thought to ourselves that we'd been saved by Rick Steves. The guard saw us interested in the lovely items and using our Rick Steve's book. So, "Thank you, Rick!" for saving us a difficult trip down the grand staincase. By the way, everytime we left out apartment in Paris, my sister would say, "Do you have Rick in the bag?"
Olivia Werner in San Diego, CA USA 03/28/2009
Rick, You can take a train, 2 euros, direct from the Gare Montparnasse to Versailles, and it only takes 12 minutes. The trains run every 12 minutes and it is a great deal. We read in your guidebook but our hotel told us about the direct commuter train. It was well worth it and much less expensive than the RER. Also I think a lot of guidebooks overlook Montparnasse great place tos tay. You are right on the Metro, with most of the major sites on the same line. The train station is steps away. There a lot shops and the Monoprix, for groceries or misc., is near. We just stayed at the Waldorf Hotel in Montparnasse and loved it. This is not our first time to Paris and we carried your guidebook everywhere. It was very useful and extremely informative! Thanks,Violaine Romans-Murray hvromansmurray@comcast.net 703.754.7980
Violaine Romans-Murray in Gainesville, VA USA 03/26/2009
Dear Sir, I'm writing to you to see if our house “Au Nain Bleu” could appear at the right place in your Paris guide. "Au Nain Bleu" is a very famous house in Paris since 1836! It's already known from many parisiens and tourists and I think that you could add it to your guide too. thank you very much for considering this.
Marie-Elise Hubert
“With its creations and prestige, Au Nain Bleu has taken part of the history of toys since 1836. We can find exceptional products that make the reputation of the brand and always refined articles at sweet price. Au Nain Bleu is the only manufacturer with 100% Made in France teddy bear: you can order a “made to measure” Teddy and embroidered a name on its paw within 3 days!”
Au Nain Bleu
5 boulevard Malesherbes, 75008 Paris +33 (0)1 42 65 20 00 contact@aunainbleu.com http://www.aunainbleu.com Monday 2:00pm-7:00pm Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 am- 7:00 pm
hubert in paris, france 03/20/2009
We walked everywhere! Seeing Paris life on the streets was way better than getting around on the Metro. We stumbled upon several little darling rues that gave us a great appreciation for Paris life that we would have missed had we used the Metro. We walked a total of 14-16 miles in 2 days but it was all completely worth it!
Katy Hewson in Houston, TX USA 03/01/2009
I have just returned from Paris and we discovered a wonderful Italian restaurant in the rue Cler area. The tiny restaurant Il Giramondo is located in the basement of their storefront at 175 rue Grenelle. When you are first seated a complimentary glass of Prosecco is served. The service and quality were superb and the prices are fair. We loved it so much we went twice!
Christine Snow in Palm Beach, FL USA 02/19/2009
Overall, this book was a great help to us. We carried it around everywhere and it had so many useful insights for us. Additionally, downloading the walking tours made our visits to Versailles, Louvre, Orsay and the historical tour great. I am sure everyone was wondering why we had Ipods at the Louvre. I also enjoyed the maps which were very helpful.
Shannon in Wilmington, DE USA 01/20/2009
I can't believe it but we too had an encounter with a Parisian scam artist that Rick mentions in his book. While walking past the Quai Branly Museum, we saw a man ahead of us reach down pick up a gold ring from the sidewalk. He then said, does this belong to you like he is some good samaritan trying to find out if we lost a ring he had found. We said no, and then he made it a point to show us that it was marked inside with 14k. He then tried it on all of his fingers and it did not fit any of them (his fingers were quite swollen). He offered it to us because of the ill fit. Then he asked for money for a sandwich. We gave him back the ring. My boyfriend then made fun of me for not picking up right away that it was a scam Rick mentioned in the book. I am telling you, the whole thing happens so fast and is well planned out that it did not register right away. It was quite amusing though.
Kelly in Gulfport, Fl USA 01/03/2009
When staying in Rue Cler neighborhood, it is so cheap to shop for groceries at the small grocery store that is a few doors down from hotel Champs du Mars. We bought cheese, crackers, yogurt, juice, candy, wine, all under 5 euro! No joke. It was a nice change of pace from paying 50 euros for dinner.
Kelly in Gulfport, Fl USA 01/03/2009