Paris may seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s easy to get the lay of the land with a little help. The French have made navigating the city somewhat easy by breaking down “the city of light” into 20 arrondissements or districts. This is the first in a series that will help you make sense of it all and give you a better understanding of this beautiful city before you arrive.

1st Arrondissement 

For first time visitors to Paris, this right bank neighborhood will allow effortless access to many of the sights on your Paris bucket list. Within walking distance are the Musée du Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries garden), Musée de l’Orangerie, Place de la Concorde, Pont Neuf (the oldest bridge in Paris), Palais Royal, Place Vendôme, and the Pont des Arts (bridge linking the 1st and 6th arrondissements). Plus for those who might find the walking in Paris a bit much, the number one metro line runs through this district and near many of the top sights.

If the sights are not enough, there is plenty more to be excited about like luxury hotels, shopping and a great selection of restaurants that will not disappoint. Hotels include Le Meurice which is a Parisian grand classic, the Mandarin Oriental, a modern oasis amidst this busy city, and the boutique Renaissance Paris Vendome. Currently being renovated, but worth a mention, is the famous Ritz Hotel that has enjoyed many celebrities and discerning clients throughout its existence and sure to see more when it reopens in 2014. Also scheduled to complete renovations in 2015, you might look forward to staying at Le Crillon which is undergoing a more than 80 million euro makeover. It will be worth the anticipation to once again see this grand palace once again at its finest.

Incredible luxury shopping might tempt you along the rue Saint-Honoré where you will find some of the most prestigious fashion brands or take in a piece of shopping history in the19th century neoclassical shopping arcade of Galerie Véro-Dodat. Built in 1826, it is just like stepping back in time as you explore the covered passage that is filled with a variety of quaint shops.

Restaurants are simple a matter of taste, but Angelina’s is always popular, and is known for their sinfully delicious hot chocolate and wonderful desserts. Another favorite is L’Ardoise, this small but quintessentially French bistro is always busy so it may be wise to snag a reservation before you drop in. Finally, Chez l’Ami Louis is perhaps the one of the most famous brasseries in the area and dates back to the 1930’s. It delivers a wonderful ambiance and roasted chicken that will keep you coming back again and again, but make your reservations for this one well in advance to avoid disappointment.

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