Holiday rentals and lettings in Paris

When looking for a holiday rental in Paris, consider that the city is thought by many to be two separate destinations: The Right Bank (north of the River Seine, Rive Droite in French) and the Left Bank (south of the River Seine, Rive Gauche in French). The river intersects the city and until modern times crossing the river was only possible in a few places, so very different cultures built up on each side. There are still many signs of this even now. Choose a letting on the Right Bank, which plays host to the glamorous side of Paris, the world-famous Champs-Élysées, as well as the incredible Louvre, or opt for the Left Bank with its more bohemian style.

Holiday lettings in Paris are typically light, bright flats, many with a balcony to look over the street below. The buildings in Paris are universally beautiful, and rentals on higher floors often boast extraordinary views over this stunning city. Some holiday lettings in Paris feature delightful gardens, or terraces decorated with colourful potted plants to bring a rural twist to the urban space.

Paris has its own international airport as well as a number of major train stations which connect to international railway services. The metro system is excellent, fast and reliable, and there is also an excellent bus service. Driving in Paris can be challenging, and watch out for the famous Place de l'Étoile, the 8-laned roundabout around the Arc de Triomphe! The rules of the road here mean that you must give way to those entering the roundabout, and there are no set lanes, so good judgment is needed!

Universally acknowledged as the world’s leading city of fashion, Paris is home to such names as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Christan Dior. The places to see and be seen for fashionistas are undoubtedly the Champs-Elysées (first and foremost), Avenue Montaigne, Rue Cambon, and Faubourg Saint-Honoré. However, Paris is packed with smaller, independent boutiques which are more accessible and no less glamorous than the leading haute couture establishments. Paris Fashion Week, typically held in the Spring and Autumn, is the pinnacle of vogue in the city.

Paris is one of the world’s most romantic cities. It’s pretty streets, lined with Plane trees and Horse Chestnuts, are shady in the hot summer and cosy in the winter. A walk down the banks of the River Seine will lead you to the beautiful Pont des Arts, otherwise known as the Love Lock Bridge, where lovers place a padlock on the bridge, and throw the keys into the river to represent their eternal connection. Don’t miss the tiny island in the Seine, Ile Saint Louis, which is a haven or romantic tranquillity, with delightful cafes to sit and plan your future together.

While Paris has an incredible range of fabulous Michelin star restaurants, the real joy of the city is discovering its less well known and delightful unlisted treasures. Consider trying, for instance, some of Paris’ wonderful creperies – ‘Les Crepes de Louis-Marie’ on Rue de Arbalete is fabulous. The charming ‘La Becane A Gaston’ is a bistro on Rue Lucien Sampaix that offers delicious, no-frills but superbly created dishes in a friendly atmosphere. France is, of course, famous for its patisseries, so keep an eye out for the freshly made mille-feuille for a naughty but nice treat on the street!

The Mona Lisa is permanently housed in the Louvre. This famous gallery has far more than just the world’s most famous smile. The Venus de Milo, for example, is one of the countless priceless pieces to be discovered.

Installed in 1887 and now classed as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, the Eiffel Tower you can climb the steps up to the best view of Paris anywhere. Top tip: whilst the Bir-Hakeim metro station is closer, approach the tower from Trocadéro – the view is far grander.

This stunning white cathedral is on the top of the hill of Montmartre, and is the highest point of the city of Paris. Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, this cathedral is a hugely important Catholic church as well as one of Paris’ most famous tourist destinations.

Found at the very end of the Champs-Élysées, in the centre of the infamous Place de l'Étoile is the Arc de Triomphe – the world’s largest arch. It is a memorial to those who fought for France, and it houses the Memorial Flame, a commemoration to those lost in France’s wars.

Despite the complete ransacking of Versailles in the French Revolution, this most glittering jewel of France’s royal past retains an incredible dignity and provides a fascinating history into the lives of the Kings of France who fell from absolute power. Top tip: Tuesday’s are the busiest working day at Versailles, so go on another day to beat the queues!