|
When many tourists think of Paris, they conjure up a mental image of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, or the Louvre. Yet while these cultural icons are worth visiting, there are plenty of attractions off the beaten track in the City of Light that are all the more wonderful for the peacefulness that comes hand in hand with a lack of crowds. Here is a handpicked selection of some of the best lesser-known spots in Paris for you to enjoy discovering on a French barging holiday. Sainte-Chapelle Sainte-Chapelle is a uniquely beautiful church that even many Parisians haven’t visited due to its tucked-away location. The chapel is nestled in the middle of the Palais de Justice’s courtrooms and registries, so you will need to go through security to enter the church. The sight of the architecture, however, is worth the slight hassle. Once the private church of French Kings, the upper chapel features huge stained glass windows with over a thousand scenes from the Bible. When the light shines through the panes, it truly is breathtaking. Archives Nationales On Rue Guynemer lies an imposing Baroque style building adorned with sculptures and tall columns and surrounded by pristine grounds. Constructed upon the orders of Napoleon I, today the building calls itself home to one of France’s six National Archives. In its collections are documents dating back as far as 625 CE. You can delve into this turbulent and fascinating history through a range of temporary and permanent exhibitions; an unusual and interesting excursion on your French barging holiday. Musée Rodin Dedicated to the life and work of a single artist, Auguste Rodin, this museum takes visitors on a journey through the sculptor’s moving masterpieces. Rodin was a prodigy: he was accepted into art school at just 14 years old. He quickly became infamous and many considered him ahead of his time. The Thinker, The Gates of Hell, The Burghers of Calais, and The Kiss are among the prized sculptures on display here. Go on a sunny day for the best experience, as a number of statues are peppered throughout the museum’s lawns. Wandering through the grassy avenues is a delight not only thanks to the artworks, but also due to the 2000 rose bushes planted here. Coulée verte René-Dumont This promenade plantée (tree-lined walkway) was once the world’s only elevated park. The greenbelt stretches 5 kilometres, tracing the old Vincennes railway line that stopped operating back in 1969. The promenade is the perfect place to go for a long and relaxing stroll and a change of pace on your French barging holiday. The park is beautiful - there are a wide array of flowers, trees and ponds, and plenty of places to sit - but peaceful even in the height of summer. Touring these lesser known attractions will allow you to experience the City of Light from a new and more peaceful perspective, and staying aboard a barge will compliment the experience perfectly. Picture cruising through the heart of the city along the River Seine and taking in iconic views from the deck of your own private cruise ship. Booking your French barging holiday with a reputable company is highly recommended to get the most out of your trip. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French barging holiday. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
Related Articles -
French, barging, holiday,
| 
