Introduction

As a city, Paris needs no introduction. Beloved of artists, writers and thinkers, not to mention lovers, it is as famous for its fashion as its food – both of which are world class – and of course its art and architecture. Paris is full of wonderful places to experience: from the magnificence of the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay to tiny little museums dedicated to artists and writers dotted throughout the city, such as the Musée Gustave Moreau or the Musée Zadkine. The city is also home to ancient Roman ruins, with Roman baths at Cluny and the Arènes de Lutèce, an arena where gladiators fought to the death.

Paris is justifiably famous for its Gothic architecture, including some of the masterpieces of the style, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle. Then there are the stunning hôtels particuliers, aristocratic town houses, such as the Hôtel de Lauzun or the Hôtel de Soubise, many of which are open to the public to catch a glimpse of life as an aristocrat before the French Revolution. Paris is also home to cutting-edge modern architecture, with the Pompidou Centre and La Villette as well as, of course, the world-famous Pyramid of the Louvre.

The city is also surprisingly green, with numerous parks and squares, including the delightful Jardin du Luxembourg and the Tuileries, not to mention the famous tree-lined boulevards laid out by Baron Haussmann in the 19th century. Avenue de l’Opéra and the Champs-Elysées are thronged with flâneurs wanting to see and be seen. For a bird’s-eye view, climb the Eiffel Tower, where you can take in the entire city spread out beneath your feet. You can also enjoy spectacular views from the soaring Tour Montparnasse or from Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre.

The walks in this book have been arranged according to the different city districts, such as the Latin Quarter or the Opéra. Each one starts where the previous one left off, and there are 14 in all. Starting at the historical islands at the centre of Paris, they work their way around the various neighbourhoods to end in Montmartre. There is also a Further Afield chapter which takes in the buildings and places that fall a little outside the city centre. This is followed by a chapter which explains the various architectural styles mentioned in the book, and a listings section that includes contact details, there is also a glossary of architectural terms. Finally, there is even a short introduction to the French language to help you on your way.

All that remains is to wish you a pleasant time strolling around one of the world’s most magical cities.

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