Seoul accommodations welcome you to a destination that was once known as “Hanseong”. Known today for its iconic tower, theme parks, royal palaces, museums, temples, historic villages / gates, traditional markets, shopping streets, bridges, parks, plazas, gardens, statues, convention centers, universities, scenic viewpoints, nightlife, kimchi-based cuisine, cosmetics industry, television dramas and K-pop music, Seoul is located just 24 miles northeasterly of Incheon (South Korea’s third-largest city), and 30 miles from the DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone). South Korea’s capital and largest city, Seoul is characterized by the Han River, which rises in the Taebaek Mountains’ western slopes.
Seoul main attractions:N Seoul Tower (iconic tower, revolving restaurant, panoramic city views), Lotte World Tower, Lotte World (theme park – rides, water flumes, marine life exhibits), Gyeongbokgung Palace (14th century royal palace, museum, gardens), Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP – architectural events, design market, food venues), Myeongdong Shopping Street, Starfield Coex Mall (underground shopping mall, convention center, theater, aquarium, restaurants), National Museum of Korea, Bukchon Hanok Village (14th century village, narrow streets, restored traditional home), Deoksugung Palace (historic palace, changing of the Royal Guard ceremony), Yeouido Hangang Park (riverside, scenic views, running paths, swimming pool – 17,282), War Memorial of Korea (war museum), Lotte World Aquarium, Seoul Children’s Grand Park (amusement park – classic rides, Ferris wheel, zoo, playground, grassy areas), Wiggle Wiggle Dosan (gift shop), Lotte World Magic Island (amusement park), Bugak Palgakjeong (colorful mountaintop pavilion, city views, wildflower garden, trails, The Hyundai Seoul (department store),
Seoul Forest Park (lake, bike path, roses, deer feeding, butterfly house), Hongdae Shopping Street, Cheonggyecheon (recreational area, revived stream, walkways, bridges, greenery), Seoul World Cup Stadium (football venue, shopping mall, movie theater), Mangwon Market (traditional indoor market – local produce, food stalls), Haneul Park (landscaped paths, tall grasses, hilltop, city views), Seodaemun Prison History Hall (history museum), Banpo Hangang Park (riverside, illuminated bridge fountain), Seoul Botanic Park (botanical garden), Bongeunsa Temple (Buddhist temple / statue), National Palace Museum of Korea (Joseon Dynasty & royal families exhibits, artifacts, audio tour), Hangaram Art Museum, Naksan Park (hilltop green space, exercise paths, observation decks, city views), Seoul Sky (observation deck), Dream Forest (wooded city park, cherry blossoms, maple trees, pond, waterfall, art center), Seonyudo Park, Seoul Central Mosque, Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain (colored lights fountain), Changgyeonggung Palace (4 grand traditional Korean palaces, shrines, gardens, tours), Seoul Station (major train station, eateries, tourist information, kids’ playroom), YG Entertainment (entertainment agency), Gyeongui Line Forest Park (former train line, pathways, lawns, streams, cafes), Gilsangsa Temple (Buddhist temple, tours, meditation halls, cultural classes, tea ceremonies), Gwanghwamun Gate (historical landmark), Olympic Park / World Peace Gate (city park – green space, sculptures, sports venues), LG Arts Center (performing arts theater), Leeum Museum of Art (art museum), Hwarangdae Railway Park, Dongnimmun Arch (Independence Gate – 19th century granite arch), Byeoryangjip (Korean barbecue restaurant), Namsan Mountain Park (Seoul’s largest park, tranquil, hilly forest, trails, observatory tower, cable car), Namsan Baekbeom Square, Dosan Park (memorial hall, statue), National Aviation Museum of Korea, Peace Park, SAMO ONDOH Flagship Store (handbag store), Seokchon Lake (walking paths, artificial island, cafes, seasonal blossoms), Noeul Park, World Cup Park (parkland, river, pond, gardens, scenic outlooks), Yonsei University, Sinchon Campus, Eungbongsan Palgakjeong Pavilion (observation deck), Ewha Womans University, Nanjicheon Park, Korea University, Seoul Campus, Buramsan Butterfly Garden
Bordering Seoulpoints of interest:Seoul Grand Park (theme park), Gwangmyeong Cave (tourist attraction), Dumulmeori (tourist attraction), Gwacheon National Science Museum, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (18th century fortress), Incheon Grand Park, Baegundae, Bukhansan Mountain Peak (national park), Byeongmogan Citizens’ Park (city park), Goyang Children’s Museum, Buramsan (nature preserve), Bukhansanseong Fortress (1700s fort – 6 gates, 8 secret gates, 2 water entrances), Hongneung and Yureung Royal Tombs, Uiryeong Trails (hiking area)
South Korea bullet train system:KTX (capable of traveling 199 MPH)
Transportation, payment, affiliate discount card:Korea Tour Card
Seoul top events: Seoul Jazz Festival, Ultra Korea, ETP Fest, Dream Concert, Seoul World DJ Festival, Zandari Festa, Ssamzi Sound Festival, DMZ Peace Train Music Festival, Seoul Fringe Festival, Lotus Lantern Festival, Seongbuk World Beer Festival, Tea World Festival, Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, Royal Culture Festival, Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival, Seoul Rose Festival, Seoul Gugak Festival, Chuseok, Boryeong Mud Festival
Seoul’s professional football club is FC Seoul, which plays at Seoul World Cup Stadium. When in Seoul, it’s customary to accept items using both hands. If calling a taxi, use your palm. Keep in mind that in Seoul, English is not widely spoken. Basic, helpful Korean words to know are annyeonghaseyo (an-yoo-uh-seyo – hello), annyeonghi gaseyo (an-yoo-nee gaseyo – goodbye), gamsahabnida (khun-sanga – thank you) and dangsin-eun yeong-eoleul hal su issnayo (honch-nin yomo-dinuh swee-niyo – do you speak English?). In Seoul, cars travel on the right-hand side, currency is the South Korean Won and the drinking age is 19 years old. Seoul accommodations are some of Eastern Asia’s best. Before we get to Seoul accommodations, let’s take a look at some more background information on the area to help you along the way.
Humans have inhabited the Seoul-area for an estimated 40,000 years. Umjip, pit-houses with lowered floors, housed the area’s people around 4,000 BC. Stone Age materials have been discovered at Amsa-dong Neolithic Site. Following the 108 BC Wiman Joseon dynasty collapse, Chinese Warring State refugees fled to the Han River basin. These Chinese refugees brought with them culture and technology that would influence the Seoul-area during the Iron Age. After the refugees’ arrival, the region’s Jin confederacy of statelets having been disintegrated, dozens of new statelets emerged, which all competed for influence over the Han River basin. By the 2nd century AD, the region’s dominant local power became the kingdom of Baekje, with its capital located at Wiryeseong (modern-day Seoul area). In the summer of 553, Baekje ceded control of the region to the eastern kingdom of Silla. Early-on, the Han River likely was named Namcheon (Nam River). In 603, the Goguryeo dynasty (located near Pyongyang), allied with Silla, attacked Seoul’s Bukhansanseong fortress and won. The following year, Silla abolished Namcheon Province, which had been established in 568 by Silla’s 24th monarch, Jinheung Taewang. Silla subsequently reestablished Bukhansan Province, thus strengthening the Kingdom’s northern border. Unified Silla was succeeded by the Korean state of Goryeo in the 11th century, and a summer palace was built in modern-day Seoul. Referred to as the “Southern Capital”, Seoul started to become a larger settlement around this time. Founding father of the 505-year Joseon dynasty, Yi Seong-gye chose Seoul as Korea’s planned capital sometime around 1392, the year when Yi Seong-gye enthroned himself at then-capital, old Goryeo. Yi Seong-gye changed the Kingdom’s name from Goryeo to Joseon in 1393. Hanyang (Seoul) officially was chosen as Joseon’s new capital in September 1394. An embodiment of Korean Confucianism, the new capital city Hanyang started being built in October 1394. Gyeongbokgung (palace) and Seoul City Wall were two of Hanyang’s major early developments. Governed by the national agency Hanseongbu, Hanyang’s two main sections were partitioned into Seong-jung (inside the Fortress Wall ) and Seongjeosimni (around the Fortress Wall). Hanyang city’s downtown area became known as Doseong-an, or more popularly Sadaemun-an, meaning ‘areas inside of the Four Great Gates’. Not until the late-19th century did Seoul open its gates to foreigners. Modernization thus ensued, and Gyeongbokgung became East Asia’s first palace to introduce electricity, while electrical street lights were implemented shortly thereafter. In 1897, the Korean Empire was proclaimed by the monarch Gojong. Temporarily called Hwangseong, Seoul engaged in trade with foreign countries such as France and the United States. Seoul Electric Company, Seoul Electric Trolley Company and Seoul Fresh Spring Water Company were examples of joint Korean–US owned enterprises. The Japan-Korea Treaty of 1910 resulted in the annexation of the Korean Empire by the Empire of Japan, and Hwangseong’s renaming to Gyeongseong. Under Japanese colonial rule, Gyeongseong’s city walls were removed, roads were paved and Western-style buildings were built. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Yeongdeungpo District was annexed into Gyeongseong in order to serve as a steel and metalworking industrial complex. Following World War II, Gyeongseong was liberated by US forces. The American military assumed control of what would become known as Seoul in 1945, with the city becoming a municipal corporation. Soviet-Chinese-backed North Korean forces and American-backed South Korean forces swapped control of Seoul four times during the Korean War. Seoul’s extensive Korean War damages resulted in South Korea’s capital being relocated to Busan for a short period. The Seoul metropolitan area’s population reached around 1.5 million by 1955. During the late-1960s, Hannam Bridge and Gyeongbu Expressway were constructed. North Korea had claimed Seoul as its de jure capital until 1972. Seoul hosted the 1986 Asian Games and 1988 Summer Olympics, and was a 2002 FIFA World Cup venue.
Home to around 9.5 million inhabitants, Seoul is known officially as Seoul Special Metropolitan City, with over 26 million people inhabiting the overall metropolitan area. US citizens comprise around 7.5% of Seoul’s population. The word Seoul means “capital city”. Around 16,360 high-rise buildings, to include 126 skyscrapers, illuminate the Seoul skyline. At 1,821 feet tall, Lotte World Tower is the city’s tallest building. Not only a modern metropolis, Seoul is home to five UNESCO Heritage sites: Changdeok Palace (15th century Joseon Dynasty palace), Hwaseong Fortress (Joseon dynasty burial fortress est. 1796)), Jongmyo Shrine (Joseon dynasty royals Confucian shrine), Namhansanseong (fortress / military stronghold) and Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty (40 Joseon Dynasty tombs). Seoul typically ranks in the world’s top-five metropolitan economies, with a GDP at around $635 billion. In 2023, over 8 million foreign tourists visited the city. High temperatures hover around 85 degrees in August, and 35 degrees in January. Additional points on interest are Gangnam (affluent district / nightlife area), Sungnyemun (historic gate), National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Museum of Art, Myeongdong Cathedral and Jamsil Baseball Stadium. Local foods include bibimbap (rice dish), bulgogi (“fire meat”), samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), hotteok (stuffed pancake) and odeng (fish cake). Seoul street foods can be found at places such as pojangmacha (street stalls) and bunsikjip (snack bars). A traditional Korean side dish, Kimchi (salted and fermented vegetables) is a South Korean staple. Popular Seoul drinks include soju (a sweet spirit), bokbunja ju (fruit wine), banana milk and various teas, while lager-style is the most popular beer. With some background information on the city, we’re ready for Seoul accommodations that are sure to inspire.
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, buffet / American breakfast, city views, terrace, garden, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk, business center
Nearby: Rosso1924 (pizza restaurant), ungteori saenggogi – Hongdae (Korean barbecue restaurant), Carole King (jazz club), Roof Cat Me (café), Blue Bottle Coffee (coffee shop), Salon de Blue (hair salon)
Hotel amenities: library, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth speakers, safety deposit boxes, walk-in rain showers, bathrobes, business center, meeting rooms, valet parking
Hotel amenities: Michelin-rated restaurant, lounge, city views, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, mini-bars
Nearby:Toh Lim (Chinese restaurant), Myeongdong Korean BBQ (restaurant), The Drawing Room (cocktail bar), LOTTE Department Store Main Store, Pushkin Plaza, Seesaw statue (tourist attraction)
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, buffet, continental or Italian breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, coffee machines, electric tea pots, mini-bars, safety deposit boxes, 24-hour front desk, free bike rentals, kids’ club, business center, airport transportation
Nearby: The Italian Club (Italian restaurant), Ji Kang (restaurant), The Original Pancake House Jamsil (breakfast restaurant), Latitude32 (bar)
Hotel amenities: 24-hour fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, 40-inch flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, bathrobes, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, luggage storage service
Nearby: Tennis Square (sporting goods store), MBC (beauty school)
Within feet:
Gwanghuimun (Jongno District gate)
Dongdaemun History & Culture Park
Dongdaemun History Museum 1398
Jongienara Paper Art Museum
Dongdaemun Gate
Within 1 mile:
Jongmyo Square Park
Within 1.2 miles:
National Theater of Korea Museum of Performing Arts
Hotel amenities: multiple dining options, 24-hour in-room dining, city views, swimming pool, traditional Korean saunas, fitness center, floor-to-ceiling windows, remote-controlled drapes, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, indoor 3-D golf, free parking
Hotel amenities: wooden flooring, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, desks, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, laundry / dry cleaning services, business center
Hotel amenities: fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, electric tea pots, safety deposit boxes, desks, 24-hour front desk, ironing services, business center
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, buffet, continental or American breakfast, terrace, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, electric tea pots, safety deposit boxes, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, business center, private parking
Hotel amenities: restaurant, buffet, American or Asian breakfast, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, electric tea pots, safety deposit boxes, 24-hour front desk, ATM, currency exchange, business center
Nearby:Seo Yong Gwan (Korean restaurant), Korean Chicken Club (chicken shop), Youngpoong Bookstore Yongsan I’Park Mall (book store)
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, buffet breakfast, city views, indoor swimming pool, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange
Nearby:Restaurant Allen (haute French restaurant), The Great Hong Yuan (Chinese restaurant), Jinsu (Japanese restaurant), Wabisabi (Japanese restaurant), Dongnam Hall (Korean barbecue restaurant), Wine & More Yeoksam Centerfield Branch (liquor store)
So there they are, Seoul accommodations that will help make for a memorable trip. We hope you have found this information valuable and most importantly, that you enjoy your time in South Korea!
Paris accommodations invite you to a destination nicknamed “City of Lights”. Known for its iconic tower & arch, palaces, castles, museums, theaters, art galleries, event venues, churches, chapels, plazas, squares, sculptures, monuments, parks, gardens, fountains, bridges, markets, bistros, cafes, triangular-shaped streets and fashion, Paris is located in north-central France. Flowing through city-center, the 483-mile long Seine River rises at Source-Seine and ultimately converges at the Paris Basin. Paris’ border is defined by Boulevard Périphérique, a 21.77-mile long ring road encircling the city.
Paris main attractions:Eiffel Tower (iconic Gustava Eiffel tower – wrought-iron, steps, elevators, observation decks, built 1889), Louvre Museum (art museum / former palace – home of da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”), Arc de Triomphe (iconic triumphal arch to commemorate Napoleon’s victories – observation deck), Champ de Mars (Eiffel Tower park), JJardins du Trocadéro (park – sculptures, central fountain, est. 1937), Jardin du Luxembourg (17th-century park – Medici Fountain, gardens, patterned trees, pedestal statues), Tuileries Garden (expansive 17th-century garden – statues), Musée d’Orsay (19th-20th-century European art museum / former railway station), Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris (12th-century cathedral – flying buttresses, gargoyles), La Villette (urban park – wide lawns, museum, cinema, music complex, sculptures, fountains), Place de la Concorde (plaza – fountains, statues, Egyptian obelisk, scene of executions), Panthéon (18th-century mausoleum – colonnaded façade, notable French citizens tomb), Palais Garnier (Italian-style opera house), Jardin des Plantes (botanical garden / restored 19th-century hothouses), Sainte-Chapelle (13th-century Gothic chapel – relics, stained-glass windows), Pont Alexandre III (19th-century arched bridge – ornate Beaux Arts style, named after Russian czar), Accor Arena (pyramid-shaped event venue), Parc des Princes (PSG stadium), Atelier des Lumières (immersive art center), Place des Vosges (city’s oldest square – tree / red brick house-lined, built by Henri IV c. 1612), Bateaux-Mouches (boat tour agency – classic restaurant aboard a barge, Seine / Eiffel Tower views), Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (19th-century park – lake, waterfalls, tall trees, old iron railway bridge), Grand Palais (art nouveau hall / museum – domed-glass roof, exhibitions, events, built 1900), Fondation Louis Vuitton (art museum – auditorium, roof terraces), Petit Palais (fine art museum – Renaissance-20th century), Parc Monceau (park – trees, tarmac trails, statues, 18th-century colonnade, pyramid follies), Musée de l’Orangerie (art museum – home of 8 Monet water lilies murals), Musée Rodin (18th-century mansion / sculpture garden – Rodin’s “The Thinker”), Pont Neuf (1607 arched stone bridge – 2 spans, King Henri IV equine statue), Domaine National du Palais-Royal (palace – 17th-century arcades, gardens, courtyard columns), Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac (world art museum), Ober Mamma (Italian restaurant), Stellar by Ephemera (restaurant), Pont des Arts (picturesque bridge over the Seins – connects the Louvre & the Institut de France), Parc Montsouris (Napolean III-founded park – London-inspired), Montparnasse Tower (modern tower – roof terrace, 56th-floor observation deck, Eiffel Tower / panoramic views), L’Olympia (19th-century concert hall – live music, comedy), La Madeleine (church / concert venue – est. 1842 in honor of Napoleon’s armies), Théâtre Mogador (performing arts theater), Place du Trocadero (paved plaza – military monument, Eiffel Tower views), Carnavalet Museum (art museum / history exhibits- 16th-17th centuries), The Dome of Paris (domed indoor arena / live music venue – music, theater, dance), Musée Marmottan Monet (Monet / impressionist art museum), Musée des Arts et Métiers (science & industry museum / converted church – artworks, artifacts, Foucault’s pendulum), Roland Garros Stadium (French Open site / tennis courts – built 1928), Jardin du Palais Royal (17th-century palace landscaped grounds – tree-lined walkways, flowerbeds, large fountain), Musée Jacquemart-André (Art museum . 19th-century townhouse – 15th-18th- century works), Musée des Arts Décoratifs (art museum – ornate ceramics, crystal, fine furniture, Middle Ages-present day), Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris (modern art museum), ANDIA (Latin-American restaurant), Musée Guimet (Asian art museum), Au P’tit Grec (creperie), National Museum of Natural History, Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages, The Centquatre-Paris (former factory / cultural center – dance classes, concerts, exhibitions), Paris Philharmonic (concert hall), Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée (natural history museum), Via Del Gusto (traditional Italian restaurant), Bataclan (live music venue), La Galerie Dior (scenography fashion museum), Hôtel de la Marine (heritage museum), MELT Cambronne (barbecue restaurant), Musée de Montmartre (art museum / 17th-century house – garden where Renoir once worked), Théâtre du Palais-Royal (performing arts theater), Bourdelle Museum (Antoine Bourdelle art museum – studio, garden), Église Saint-Augustin (19th-century Roman Catholic church), New Morning (live music venue), Théâtre des Béliers parisiens (performing arts theater), Jardin Catherine-Labouré (landscaped garden – lawn, ornamental vines, playground), LA SCENE BARBES – Comedy Club Pararden
Bordering Parispoints of interest (near Boulevard Peripherique):Stade de France (stadium), Bois de Vincennes (995-hectare park – lakes, hiking / biking trails, botanical garden, zoo. horse racecourse), Château de Vincennes (14th-century castle – moat, towers, pavilion, state rooms, guided tours), Parc Floral de Paris (floral garden – 3,000 or so plant species, artificial lake, pavilions, summer concerts), La Seine Musicale (egg-shaped music & dance venue), Saint-Cloud National Estate (vast parkland / Marie Antoinette’s rose garden), NIKITO Alfortville (amusement center), Ile Saint-Germain Park (island park – gardens, sculptures, recreation areas, ponies), Château de Malmaison (former Napoleon & Josephine country home – 19th- century décor, furnishings & paintings), Malmaison Forest (200-hectare national forest – pond, hiking, biking, interpretive trail), Château de Sceaux (19th-century castle / art & ceramics museum – formal gardens, fountains), Le Kilowatt (performing arts venue)
When driving, keep in mind that drivers must yield to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections.
Winners of 13 Ligue 1 titles, 16 Coupe de France, 9 Coupe de la Ligue and 13 Trophée des Champions, Paris Saint-Germain FC (PSG) plays at Le Parc des Princes (about 2 miles southwest of the Eiffel Tower). When in Paris, guests should always start a question with bonjour madame / monsieur. Although basic English is widely understood in tourist areas, learning some French phrases beforehand of course would be helpful. English comprehension drops noticeably outside of tourist areas. Public bathrooms are relatively sparse, and may be found only at cafés or bars in places. At many metro stations, WiFi is free for 20 minutes. While eating in public, one should avoid using a smartphone or handling documents. Dressing up will help one blend in. Once common on Parisian walkways, mimes have largely gone extinct. Paris currency is the Euro, cars travel on the right-hand side and the drinking age is 18 years old. Paris accommodations are some of France’s best. Before we get to Paris accommodations, let’s take a look at some more background information on the area to help you along the way.
First inhabited by the Gallic Parisii tribe, Paris has been occupied since the 3rd century BC. The Parisii traded with other river towns and even minted their own coins. An important trading center around this time, île de la Cité (island) anchored Paris. The Romans conquered the Paris Basin circa 52 BC and settled on Paris’s Left Bank. Originally known as Lutetia, the Roman settlement expanded to include an amphitheater, a forum, baths, theaters and temples. The area became known as Parisius (Latin for Paris) in the 3rd century AD, a period in which Paris’s first Bishop, Saint Denis, introduced Christianity. Unfortunately for Saint Denis the Romans had not yet adopted the Christian faith. Refusing to renounce his faith, Saint Denis was martyred by way of beheading. Saint Denis was beheaded on what would become known as the “Hill of Martyrs” (present-day Montmartre). Legend has it that a headless Saint Denis walked northward to his final falling place, a spot that would become the Basilica of Saint-Denis, in which many French kings would later be buried. In 508, Clovis the Frank, king of the Merovingian dynasty, made Paris his capital after a multi-year Roman resistance therein. Clovis I would become the first Frankish king to unite all the Frank tribes under one ruler. Franks gradually migrated to Paris and a Parisian-Francien dialect evolved. Vikings sieged Paris several times between 845-886. The Vikings looted the city and enforced bribes. Viking sieges were finally assuaged after the 885 Siege of Paris. The Vikings were suppressed largely by two fortified bridges that had been built near Île de la Cité, which prevented Viking ships from passing. The Palais de la Cité became the city’s focal point during the 12th century. In 1163, Louis VII and Bishop Maurice de Sully constructed Notre Dame Cathedral. Built in 1190 by King Philip II to protect against English invasions from the west, the Louvre fortress would eventually become the Louvre Museum site. Europe’s most populous city, Paris was inhabited by around 200,000 people in 1328. England took control of the city for a brief period following the Hundred Years’ War. During the French Wars of Religion (1562-1598), the 1572 St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre saw the Catholic League massacre thousands of French Protestants. France remained Catholic following the religious wars, albeit with tolerance for Protestantism. Determined to make Paris Europe’s most beautiful city, Cardinal Richelieu, Louis XIII’s chief minister, built five new bridges, a new chapel for the College of Sorbonne and the Palais-Royal during the 17th century. Louis XIV, during his 72-year reign, commissioned the Palace of Versailles and replaced the city walls with tree-lined boulevards. Versailles Palace had begun as a small hunting lodge built by Louis XIII. Paris’ population grew to around 650,000 by 1780. Around this time, Champs-Élysées avenue was commissioned by Louis XIV and designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre. Centered in Paris, the Age of Enlightenment lasted until 1789. The 1789 French Revolutionincluded the Reign of Terror and executions of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Thereafter a constitutional monarchy was created and the first republic formed in September 1789. The French Revolutionary Wars saw Napoleon Bonaparte arise victorious. Napoleon established the First French Republic and subsequent First French Empire., with Paris serving as his headquarters. Following Napoleon’s defeat at the Battle of Leipzig, he was exiled by the British to the remote, Atlantic island of Saint Helena, where he died in 1821 aged 51. Paris was besieged by the Prussian Army during the 1870 Franco-Prussian War. Germany having won the war, the Second French Empire came to an end, and the German Empire was founded. Paris remained France’s capital throughout the German Empire era. During this time, new fountains, a metal bridge, a railway line, an opera house, a central market, gas lamps, aqueducts and sewers helped modernize the city. In the late-1800s, impressionist painters emerged such as Manet, Monet and Renoir. By the early-20th century, Paris’ population had grown to over 2.7 million people, one of whom was Pablo Picasso. During World War I, German Zeppelins and long-range guns bombarded Paris. As many as 1,000 Parisian taxis transported 6,000 soldiers to the front lines at the WWI First Battle of the Marne. During World War II, Paris was declared an open city, and the German army marched in unopposed on June 14, 1940. On August 25, 1944, the French 2nd Armoured Division, alongside the 4th Infantry Division of the United States Army, liberated Paris from the Nazis. Afterwards, General Charles de Gaulle made an inspirational speech at the Hôtel de Ville. Paris hosted the 1998 World Cup, along with the Summer Olympics in 2024.
France’s capital and most populous city, Paris today is home to over 2 million “Parisians”. Paris’ urban area inside Boulevard Périphérique spans 1,090 square miles. City of Lights has multiple canals to include the Ourcq, Saint-Martin, and Saint-Denis canals. Due to height restrictions, the city’s only true skyscraper is Tour Montparnasse at 690 feet. In comparison, the Eiffel Tower stands at 1,083 feet. Naturally, tourism is a key economic contributor. Nearly 49 million people visited Paris in 2024. In 2023, the Louvre Museum received around 9 million visitors. Once home to Christian Dior, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, Paris is of course a fashion epicenter. Paris Fashion Week is held at various venues to include The Grand Palais, The Carrousel du Louvre and The Rodin Museum. Paris’ secondary airport is Orly Airport. Home to an oceanic climate, Paris experiences warm summers and mild winters. Summer July high temperatures average around 78 °F, while January winters stay around 46 °F. Light night frosts / snow flurries are common during winter. Additional points of interest include Musée Picasso, Pompidou Centre, Élysée Palace, Hôtel de Sens, Comédie Française, Sainte-Geneviève Library, Gare du Nord, Sorbonne University, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Rue de Rivoli, Place de la République, Place des Vosges, Place de la Bastille, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Paris Catacombs, Hôtel-Dieu de Paris and Front de Seine. Local foods include steak tartare, duck confit, oysters, squab (young pigeon), escargot, frog legs, coq au vin (chicken braised with wine), couscous, cheese, steak frites, croissants, baguettes, macarons, eclairs and chocolate. Popular drinks are wine, beer, apéritifs, absinthe, pastis (licorice-flavored spirit), calvados (apple brandy) and espresso. With some background information on the area, we’re ready for Paris accommodations that will help make for an incredible experience.
Hotel amenities:restaurant,bar,indoor pool, fitness center, sauna, terrace,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, kitchens, buffet / continental breakfast, 24-hour front desk,concierge service
Hotel amenities:bar,terrace, balconies,air conditioning,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs,desks, coffee machines, electric tea pots,safety deposit boxes, 24-hour front desk,concierge service, business area
Nearby restaurants:Chez Marie, paris 10 (fast food restaurant), Le Martel (couscous restaurant), Dumbo Petites-Écuries (American restaurant), Le daily syrien Bar (Syrian restaurant), Zinga (Caribbean restaurant), Jah Jah By Le Tricycle (vegan restaurant), Flour (fast food restaurant), Cinco Bodega (pizza restaurant)
Nearby misc.: Goku Comedy Club, Le Cham’ Bar, L’Ouvre-Boîte (book store)
Hotel amenities: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs,desks, 24-hour front desk with Arabic, German, English and French-speaking staff, concierge service, luggage storage, buffet, continental or gluten-free breakfast
Nearby restaurants: Kangen Vietfood (Asian restaurant), Rūlo Hand Roll (sushi restaurant), Poco Loco (restaurant), Le bistrot (brasserie), HOMADE (brunch restaurant), Sezono (vegetarian restaurant)
Hotel amenities:bar,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk
Nearby restaurants / bars: WOW TIBET (restaurant), Kokonor (Tibetan restaurant), La muraille du Phenix (Asian restaurant), An An Restaurant Vietnamien (Vietnamese restaurant), Au Vieux Cèdre (Lebanese restaurant), Le Coup de Torchon (French restaurant), Yi One (Mandarin restaurant), Casa Di Peppe (Italian restaurant), Ozumaki Luxembourg (restaurant), Le Pantalon (bar), The Crocodile (cocktail bar)
Nearby misc.:Skin Chic (beauty salon), La Maison Des Sons (music school), Emablues – Showroom : Réservé aux professionnels (women’s clothing store), Swapfiets Paris (bicycle rental service), Make and Mark (store), Au Charbon | Salle À Louer (function room facility)
Nearby restaurants / bars:Afaria (French restaurant), La Seranata Paris (Italian restaurant), Restaurant Villa Positano Porte de Versailles Convention (Italian restaurant), Chiang Rai Mai (Thai restaurant), The Counter Rugby Bar (sports bar), Les canailles Vaugirard (cocktail bar)
Nearby misc.: Crêperie Ty Fanch (creperie), Malt in Stock (wine store)
Hotel amenities:restaurant, indoor pool, spa, sauna, hot tub, wellness center, fitness center, air conditioning,,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, kitchenettes,coffee machines, buffet breakfast, pool tables, hammam, 24-hour front desk, business center
Nearby restaurants:Restaurant l’Envolée (French restaurant), L’Estel (brasserie), Maître Pierre (Italian restaurant), Via Pasta (Italian restaurant) Enni Udon (Japanese restaurant), Samy’s (Lebanese restaurant), Le Relais Plaza (restaurant), Bar des Théâtres (restaurant), Côme Marbeuf (restaurant), Bellota-Bellota® Champs-Elysées (restaurant), Shirvan, Café Métisse (restaurant), Bellota-Bellota Champs-Elysées (restaurant), Côme Marbeuf (salad shop), Les Petits Déjeuners du Plaza Athénée (breakfast restaurant)
Nearby misc.:Le Bar (bar), DIOR (clothing store), Jean-Manuel Moreau (clothing store), Giuseppe Zanotti (shoe store), Thom Browne Paris (fashion designer), Harry Winston (jewelry designer), Salon Antoine B. (hairdresser), Cible Skin (skin care clinic), La Cave Vignon (wine store), La Cave Vignon (wine store), Av. Montaigne (notable street), Place de la Reine Astrid (park), Le 28 George V (event venue)
Within feet:
Square du Palais Galliera (Palais Galliera Square)
Hotel amenities:bar, terrace, patios, city views, garden, sauna, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, hairdryers, coffee machines, buffet, continental or vegetarian breakfast, Arabic, German, English and Spanish-speaking reception staff, ATM, playground, business center
Nearby restaurants: Kochi (Korean restaurant), Kochi (Korean restaurant), Le Tour du Liban (Lebanese restaurant), Chapeau (restaurant)
Nearby restaurants:Le Casse Noix (French restaurant), La’Abreuvoir (Brasserie), Villa Verdi (Italian Restaurant), Le Concert de Cuisine (fusion restaurant), Restaurant de la Tour (restaurant)
Nearby misc.:cc142 (creperie), Salon De Coiffure (hair salon), L’Ongierie (nail salon), Nicolas (wine store), Mas charcuterie (butcher)
Hotel amenities:winter garden, sauna,fitness center, hammam, air conditioning,free Wi-Fi,flat-screen TVs, mini-bars, bathrobes, slippers, American buffet breakfast, 24-hour front desk, private transfer service for a surcharge, tour desk
Hotel amenities: jazz bar, interior courtyard with a fountain and marble statues, courtyard views, original beams, antique furniture, monumental fireplaces made of Burgundy stone, four-poster beds, marble bathrooms, Nespresso coffee machines, free Wi-Fi, full English breakfast, elegant breakfast room, 24-hour reception, airport shuttle, massage services upon request, underground parking
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, terrace, balconies, city views, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, coffee machines, desks, concierge service, luggage storage, buffet, à la carte or continental breakfast, Arabic, English, Spanish and French speaking reception staff
Hotel amenities:honesty bar, tea room, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, wellness center, hammam, massage service for an extra charge
Hotel amenities:champagne bar, buffet breakfast, in-room breakfast service, patio, exposed wooden beams, individually-decorated rooms, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, tea / coffee making facilities
Nearby restaurants / pubs : Pasta Linea (Italian restaurant), Salento Marais (Italian restaurant), A modo mio (Italian restaurant), La Mangerie (European restaurant),Khao Thai Sévigné (Thai restaurant), Chez Ajia (Taiwanese restaurant), Keko Momo (Chinese restaurant), Joji (Asian restaurant), Les Bougresses (down home cooking), Casa San Pablo (restaurant), Les petites bouchées (restaurant), Clark Hot Dog (fast food restaurant), Magnum Pleasure Store Paris (sundae restaurant), The Auld Alliance (pub)
Hotel amenities:river views,fitness center, air conditioning,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, fully-equipped kitchens, bathrobes, slippers, 24-hour front desk, concierge service
former Prince Roland Bonaparte’s residence & national heritage site
Musee de l’Homme
Hotel amenities: 2 restaurants (including a Michelin-starred), historic billiard room with a fireplace,Eiffel Tower views,indoor pool, fitness center, spa, European Empire / Asian aesthetics, custom-made furniture, crystal finishing,separate living rooms, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, laptop safes, desks, marble bathrooms with heated flooring, Guerlain toiletries, rainfall showers
Hotel amenities:restaurant,bar, terrace, outdoor swimming pool,spa, fitness center, air conditioning,flat-screen TVs,coffee machines,mini-bars, safety deposit boxes,24-hour front desk, luggage storage, continental or à la carte breakfast
Hotel amenities:2 Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants,garden, courtyard & street views,rooftop swimming pool with Eiffel Tower views, inner French garden, solarium,spa, Louis XV / Louis XVI-style furniture, double washbasins, kids club
Nearby French restaurants:L’Orriu di Beauvau, Le Griffonnier, Le Laurent, Le Boudoir, Epicure, 114 Faubourg
Nearby misc. restaurants / bars: Caffe Bellucci (Italian restaurant), Officina Schenatti (Italian restaurant) Cafe Antonia (restaurant), Bugsy’s(bar & restaurant), Le Bar du Bristol (bar)
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, terraces,city views,indoor pool, spa, wellness center, hammam,air conditioning,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, kettles, desks, continental or à la carte breakfast, 24-hour front desk,concierge service
Hotel amenities:restaurant, bar,terrace, city views,sauna, wellness area, hammam,air conditioning,free Wi-Fi,flat-screen TVs,desks, coffee machines, electric tea pots,mini-bars, safety deposit boxes, continental / American breakfast, 24-hour front desk,evening entertainment
Nearby restaurants / bars:Bistrot Instinct (French restaurant), La Briciola (Italian restaurant), Pizzeria Maria (pizza restaurant), PNY (hamburger restaurant), Little Red Door (cocktail bar)
Hotel amenities:restaurant,bar, buffet,, continental or American breakfast, terrace, city views, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, hammam, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs,coffee machines, electric tea pots,mini-bars, safety deposit boxes, 24-hour German, English, Spanish and French-speaking front desk staff, concierge service, private parking for an extra charge
Guest House amenities:sun terrace,city / garden views, spa, sauna, hot tub,fitness center, air conditioning,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, kitchens, coffee machines, kettles,open-air baths, hairdryers, a la carte / continental breakfast, 24-hour front desk,private parking, indoor play area, outdoor play equipment
Nearby restaurants:IL FARNIENTE (Italian restaurant) Le XIV Eme (Portuguese restaurant), Veni Vici (restaurant)
Nearby misc.: Melody Beauty (hair salon), Le Nombre d’Or (hair salon)
Within feet:
Jardin Marie-Thérèse Auffray
Au Parc Montsouris
Square Alberto Giacometti
Place Denfert-Rochereau
Porte d’Orléans Metro Station
Within 2.3 miles:
Rodin Museum
Within 6 miles:
Orly Airport
Maison Lavaud is 11 miles from Toussus-le-Noble Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Penthouse Apartment): $1,632
Hotel amenities:restaurant, bar, terrace, balconies, city views, garden,air conditioning,free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs,coffee machines, electric tea pots,mini-bars, desks,safety deposit boxes, à la carte / vegetarian breakfast, 24-hour front desk
Hotel amenities:bar,terraces,spa center,sauna,fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, electric tea pots,mini-bars, desks,safety deposit boxes, buffet, à la carte or continental breakfast, Arabic, English, Spanish and French-speaking reception staff, concierge service
Nearby misc.: Compagnie Française des Poivres et des Epices (deli), Oz Garden (florist), Rue de Furstemberg (notable street), ARTY DANDY (gift shop), Yveline Antiques (antique furniture store)
Nearby misc.: Maison Largesse (bakery), Laiterie Gilbert Paris 14 Alésia (cheese shop), Les Saisonniers – Alésia (grocery store), Tentation (florist), Soleil Nails (nail salon), Retoucherie BleuBlanc (clothing alteration service), Carmen (costume jewelry shop)
Within feet:
Square Alberto Giacometti
Jardin de la Zac Didot
Jardin Françoise Heritier
Jardin du Cloître
Pernety Metro Station
Within 1.5 miles:
Luxembourg Gardens
Within 2.1 miles:
Orsay Museum
Villa Alesia is 10 miles from Toussus-le-Noble Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Five Bedroom Villa): $2,751
Cost per person (ten people): $275
So there they are, Paris accommodations that will help make for an unforgettable experience. We hope you have found this information valuable and most of all, that you enjoy your time in France!
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