Ile-de-France (Paris region) literally means ‘Island of France’ and is the wealthiest and most populated of the 27 French regions. The region consists mainly of the Paris metropolitan area – in fact, 23% of Paris region’s land is filled by the city. In total, the region has 11.7 million inhabitants, which is more than Greece or Belgium. Stay in a Premiere Classe Paris Est Hotel to ensure you are close to the region’s best sights.
The River Seine runs through the region, making boat trips a popular tourist attraction. The region is split into eight departments and includes the city of Versailles, a favourite for tourists. Paris region has a similar climate to that of England, but boasts warmer summers and milder winters. The region offers something for history enthusiasts and nature-lovers alike, featuring beautiful cathedrals and picturesque forests and valleys.
A two-day break
Two days is just enough time to discover the most popular cities in the region: Paris and Versailles. Spend day one visiting the famous Palace of Versailles. On day two, you can visit Paris for a spot of shopping. Book a shopping tour to make the most efficient use of your time and visit one of the city’s tea rooms for sweet treats afterwards.
A week-long stay
A week in Paris region gives you time to explore all the sights of Paris. Book a tour to take you around the famous Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Explore Paris by foot and stumble across quirky boutiques and stalls. Stay in a Premiere Classe Paris Est Hotel for the city on your doorstep. A week also gives you enough time to venture outside of Paris and discover Chantilly and Versailles.
A family holiday
There’s plenty for the whole family in Paris region ! No family holiday is complete without a visit to Disneyland Paris. Exciting rides and funny shows will keep everyone entertained. Many of the region’s museums also offer tours designed specifically for children, to educate as well as entertain. Children and adults alike will love the Marais Magic Museum. The Aquarium of Paris is another must-see, offering a touch pool, films and various workshops for the whole family to enjoy.
Transport
By air, fly to one of Paris’ main airports – Charles de Gaulle, Orly or Beauvais. Stay in a Premiere Classe Paris Est Hotel, close to the main airports. Use the metro once there, or hire a car or even a bicycle to get around easily.
Gastronomy
Head to brasseries in Paris to get a taste of the city’s elegant charms. Dine on delicious traditional dishes, such as French onion soup or coq au vin. Try Alcazar for a modern twist on the brasserie and a spectacular Sunday brunch. In Versailles, try La Crêperie Royale, which specialises in Breton crêpes.
Events
From mid-June to early September, the Château de Versailles offers spectacular night-time fountain shows, accompanied by baroque music. Stay at the Premiere Classe Versailles Hotel, to be close to the action. Visit Paris for the Rock en Seine three-day music festival, close to the city centre.
Interesting fact
‘Paris’ is not the city’s original name. In fact, it was first called Lutetia Parisorium, when the first settlers arrived. It is believed that the name derived from the Latin word for mud, ‘lutum’, probably referring to the muddy banks of the Seine. So the elegant and beautiful city we now call Paris may have started life as ‘the mud town’.
Useful links
Paris Info
http://www.parisinfo.com/
Office de Tourisme Versailles
http://www.versailles-tourisme.com/
Paristrip.com