Tuesday 12 June 2012

Staying in the Bastille Area

Although enduringly linked to its historical fame, the Bastille area of Paris offers much more than just ruins. Well-connected and alive with activity, the area is a great place to base yourself while in Paris, but is equally worthy for a stop-off on a sightseeing tour. The area centers around the Place de la Bastille, which is a bustling and atmospheric place to hang out. Sip on a cappuccino and admire the latest fashions of passing fashionistas, or bop away until the early hours in one of the nightclubs dotting the area. If you really want to splash out, treat yourself to a night at L'Opera Bastille.



If you plan ahead, you could also time your visit with one of the many events taking place in the square. Bastille also draws visitors due to its open-air markets that take place on Thursdays and Sundays along the Boulevard Richard Lenoir. Rub shoulders with local hagglers, and pick up fresh food and cut-price clothes. But, of course, no visit to the area would be complete without taking in some of the area's historical sights. The square's Colonne de Juillet is a tribute to the events of the French Revolution, which took place in 1789. If you're observant, you can also spot some remains of the fortress's stone foundations, at the side of the Boulevard Henri IV.

The luxurious Pavillon de la Reine is one of the best-rated hotels in the area, getting terrific reviews for its charming and elegant decor and friendly service. It's not cheap, but if you are looking for something special, it is spot-on. If you're after good value, 3-star boutique hotel the Hotel Paris Bastille is also a firm tourist favorite thanks to its modern and clean rooms, its good location and its tasty breakfasts. For eating out, Brasserie L'Europeen is hard to beat, being a particular gem for seafood aficionados. Le Marsangy and Le Temps au Temps also get great reviews for their fabulous food and excellent service. For convenience and a chance to soak up history with a modern twist, you'd have to go a long way to beat the Bastille area of Paris.

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