DK Travel : Paris

From Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower, Paris holds some of the world's most famous sights and these highlights should be top of the list for any first-time visitor. With the exception of the overtly modern Pompidou Centre, they have been landmarks of this elegant and romantic capital for centuries and remain awe-inspiring sights, no matter how often you visit the city.

More on guided tours in Paris

Le Parc Sofitel Demeure

The façade of this 1912 mansion conceals a beautiful flower-filled courtyard, while the interior decor combines the feel of the old with the design of the new. Superchef Alain Ducasse has his top restaurant, 59 59 Poincaré, right next door. right next door.
Le Père Goriot

Honoré de Balzac (1799–1850) chronicled Paris life masterfully in his 80-volume La comédie humaine series, and this 1853 novel is certainly among the finest. Balzac’s house at 47 rue Raynouard in the 16th arrondissement , where he lived from 1840–47, is open to the public (see Maison de Balzac).
Le Petit Journal Montparnasse

The club that barely sleeps – the doors close at 2am, but open up again four hours later. You can just drink, or have a meal while listening to the live music, which is mainly big band jazz but on some nights takes in salsa, blues or rock.
Le Petit Journal St-Michel

Younger brother of the Montparnasse original, this club opened in 1971 and concentrates more on New Orleans-style swinging jazz. A fun atmosphere in this Latin Quarter cellar, together with a pleasant dining room in which to have a meal, just off the main stage area.
Le Petit Rétro

Cosy atmosphere in this 1900s bistro and affordable prices. Blanquette de Veau is delicious.
Le Petit St-Benoît

Camus, de Beauvoir and James Joyce are among the many writers who once took their daily coffee here.
Le Placard d’rik Satie

A placard (cupboard) is how the composer referred to his diminutive studio.
Le Pré Catelan

Tucked away in the Bois de Boulogne is this high-class dining pavilion. Romantic setting and elegant service.
Le Pre Verre

3 course menu 25.5 E "The fix prix lunch there was sensationally good"
Le Procope

The oldest café in Paris, this was a meeting place for writers such as Voltaire, Hugo, Balzac and Zola.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €100
- €100–150
- €150–250
- €250–350
- over €350
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and charges included.
- under €30
- €30–40
- €40–50
- €50–60
- over €60