AQUABOULEVARD, PARIS
The Waterpark
Aquaboulevard in Paris is one of the largest urban water parks in Europe, featuring a diverse range of attractions suitable for all ages. The indoor section includes a wave pool, multiple water slides, Jacuzzis, and a rope swing, while the outdoor area (open seasonally) offers sandy beaches, sunbeds, and lush greenery for relaxation. A standout feature is the wakeboarding pool, which provides a unique experience for thrill-seekers. Free armband floats are available for children, making the park particularly appealing to families. The facility emphasises convenience, with locker systems requiring refundable coins and a shop offering skintight swimwear. We mention this because they are mandatory for entry, no shorts are allowed! Just be aware that the park can be overcrowded during peak times which can also impact the cleanliness throughout the later parts of the day. Overall, Aquaboulevard balances recreational activities with relaxation opportunities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Paris, Home of the Waterpark
Accommodation
Seeking a stylish and comfortable haven in the heart of Paris? Look no further than Hôtel Dame des Arts. This charming hotel offers a delightful blend of modern amenities and Parisian charm whilst in a perfect location. Situated just steps from the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and within easy reach of other major attractions, Hôtel Dame des Arts allows you to explore the city with ease. The rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts are comfortable and well-appointed with modern décor, high-quality bedding, and spacious bathrooms. You'll also appreciate the hotel's on-site amenities including a well-equipped fitness centre and a relaxing sauna, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The hotel's restaurant is delicious and varied menu and the staff are friendly and helpful throughout all of the hotel.
For a more affordable choice, try Hôtel Paris Bastille which you'll find comfortable and convenient, right in the heart of Paris. Located in the vibrant Bastille district, this hotel is within easy reach of many of the city's top attractions, including the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower. Your first impression will be the hotel's friendly and helpful staff who are always on hand to assist with any queries or requests. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-equipped and you'll find a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Relax in the stylish lounge area, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or unwind in the comfortable guest rooms.
For a tighter budget, Hôtel Bridget offers a stylish and affordable stay in the heart of Paris. Located in the trendy 20th arrondissement, this charming hotel is known for its funky rooms and welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, offering a comfortable and stylish space to relax after a day of exploring the city. While the hotel may not boast the same level of luxury as some of its larger counterparts, it offers excellent value for money and a unique Parisian experience.
Food
Paris offers a culinary experience that bridges traditional French gastronomy and diverse international influences. The city is renowned for iconic dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon, a rich stew of beef braised in red wine and often served in charming bistros like Le P’tit Troquet near the Eiffel Tower. Escargots, a beloved appetiser of snails prepared in garlic butter, are best enjoyed at places such as L’Escargot Montorgueil, where the ambiance complements the dish’s rustic appeal. Another hallmark of Parisian cuisine is the soufflé, with both savoury and sweet options available at specialty venues like Le Soufflé, known for its extensive variations. Cassoulet, a hearty bean and meat stew, brings the flavours of southern France to Paris, with restaurants like L’Assiette offering a top-tier rendition. Similarly, foie gras, a creamy delicacy, finds a home in establishments such as Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie, a favourite for both its quality and authenticity. The simplicity of steak frites, a dish pairing seared steak with crispy fries, is elevated in classic bistros across the city.
Boeuf bourguignon
For international cuisines, Paris boasts a cosmopolitan range, from Michelin-starred Japanese eateries to Middle Eastern Street food in the Marais. Restaurants like Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower provide not just a fine dining experience but also breathtaking views of the city. Meanwhile, casual settings like Café de Flore capture the essence of Parisian café culture, blending history with a relaxed dining. Paris seamlessly marries culinary tradition with innovation, offering something for every palate, from time-honoured recipes to globally inspired flavours.
Other Activities and Sights
Paris offers an extraordinary array of sights and attractions, seamlessly blending history, art, and culture. The Eiffel Tower remains an iconic centrepiece, attracting millions with its striking architecture and unparalleled views of the city. You could also visit as the sun sets for a magical panorama.
The iconic Eiffel Tower
Nearby, the Louvre Museum captivates with its vast collection of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, housed in a historic palace. The Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is renowned for its intricate facade, stunning stained glass, and the opportunity to climb its towers for an enchanting perspective of the Seine. Similarly, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, perched on Montmartre, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city's bustle. Montmartre itself is celebrated for its bohemian charm, cobbled streets, and vibrant artistic heritage. Paris’s parks and gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries, provide serene spots to relax, with manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. For those seeking a unique experience, a stroll through Le Marais immerses visitors in history and culture, with its medieval streets, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. The Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe showcase Parisian grandeur, with the avenue brimming with luxury boutiques, theatres, and fine dining options.
The Champs-Élysées
Alongside these, the Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou have exceptional art collections, ranging from Impressionist masterpieces to modern works. The Seine River itself is an attraction, offering enchanting boat cruises that pass under historic bridges and alongside illuminated landmarks, giving a romantic perspective of Paris at night. Whether exploring iconic monuments or discovering hidden gems, Paris consistently enchants its visitors with its timeless allure.
Shopping
Shopping in Paris is an experience that blends luxury, history, and cultural charm, offering something for every visitor. High-end shopping thrives in iconic locations like Avenue des Champs-Élysées, where flagship stores from global brands sit alongside charming boutiques. This stretch is a destination for fashion enthusiasts seeking iconic Parisian luxury. Similarly, Galeries Lafayette is a must-visit for both its upscale fashion offerings and its stunning Belle Époque architecture, including a rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking views of the city. For those interested in vintage finds or quirky items, Le Marais is a delightful neighbourhood filled with independent stores, trendy outlets, and vintage shops, creating a more bohemian and artistic shopping vibe. In contrast, Passage des Panoramas, one of Paris’s historic covered arcades, offers a blend of charm and specialty shops, perfect for an atmospheric browsing experience. Modern shopping can be found in places like Westfield Forum des Halles, a sprawling mall in central Paris offering a mix of fashion, technology, and lifestyle stores. Another notable spot is Beaugrenelle Paris with its sleek, contemporary design and wide range of shops. For niche experiences, Shakespeare and Company stands out, not just as a bookstore but as a cultural icon, filled with literary treasures in a unique, cozy setting. Art lovers may enjoy exploring specialty shops in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which features galleries, antique stores, and chic boutiques.
Organised Trips and Tours
If you're in Paris, Disneyland is a must-see for its enchanting blend of fantasy and cinematic magic. At Disneyland® Park, relive classic Disney tales with thrilling rides like Big Thunder Mountain and Peter Pan’s Flight, and meet beloved characters in a fairytale setting. The day ends with a spectacular fireworks and drone show at Sleeping Beauty Castle. Walt Disney Studios® Park brings movie magic to life with Pixar-themed attractions, Marvel's Avengers Campus, and behind-the-scenes experiences. From Ratatouille to Toy Story, the park is a dream for families and fans of Disney’s storytelling. It’s the perfect way to add unforgettable magic to your Paris adventure.
Disneyland Paris
If the kids are old enough (officially six or older) then why not take your seat at the legendary Moulin Rouge, one of the world’s most iconic cabarets, to experience the dazzling spectacle of “Féerie.” This celebrated show, crafted by Doris Haug and Ruggero Angeletti and choreographed by Bill Goodson, features 100 artists, including 60 stunning Doris Girls. Adorned in 1,000 breathtaking costumes of feathers, rhinestones, and sequins designed by Corrado Collabucci, the performers bring Parisian glamour to life. The stage is set with intricate designs by Gaetano Castelli, complemented by a mesmerizing soundtrack composed by Pierre Porte, performed by 80 musicians and 60 choral singers. As you immerse yourself in the opulence, enjoy half a bottle of Champagne, adding to the indulgence of this visual and musical extravaganza. The Moulin Rouge promises an unforgettable evening, celebrating the artistry and allure of this legendary cabaret.
Moulin Rouge
Car Hire
When renting a car in Paris, several well-known car hire companies operate in the city, including Europcar, Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Budget, and Leclerc Location. Having a car in Paris can be beneficial if you're planning to explore areas outside the city, like Versailles, Champagne, Normandy, or the Loire Valley. Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, which can be especially convenient for day trips to places that are harder to reach by public transportation. A rental car is also a good option if you're traveling with a family or group, as it offers more space and comfort than public transport. However, driving in Paris can be challenging. The city is known for its heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours, and navigating the streets can be difficult due to their narrowness and complex layout, with many one-way systems and intersections. Finding parking can also be problematic, as street parking is limited and expensive, and parking garages are often located far from popular attractions. If you do decide to drive, having a GPS or a reliable navigation app is essential, as it can be difficult to find your way around the city. French roads generally have clear signs, but the layout of Paris makes it easy to get lost. France also has strict driving laws, including speed limits of 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on non-motorways, and 130 km/h on highways. You’ll need to be aware of low-emission zones in central Paris, where only cars that meet specific environmental standards are allowed. This can be important to check before renting a car. Additionally, toll roads are common on highways, so it's important to have either cash or a credit card on hand for these payments. Driving in Paris requires extra caution, especially because of the large number of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads. Overall, while renting a car in Paris can be a great option for certain trips, if you're mainly staying in the city, public transport might be more convenient.
Flights
When traveling to Paris, the main airport is Charles de Gaulle (CDG), located about 25 kilometres north of the city centre. CDG is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving as the primary hub for international flights arriving in Paris. It handles a vast number of flights from destinations around the world, including long-haul flights from Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East. Flights to Paris are available from virtually every major city worldwide, with multiple airlines offering direct routes. Charles de Gaulle is a large and modern airport with three terminals 1 - 3. At CDG, you can expect a wide range of services, including numerous restaurants, duty-free shops, lounges, and services for travellers, such as free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, and baggage handling. The airport is well-connected to Paris city centre through various transport options, including the RER B train, buses, taxis, and private shuttles, making it relatively easy to reach central Paris.
Final Word
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