Alain Ducasse has renovated the Jules Verne restaurant on the top of the Eiffel Tower, and it is expected to be just as good as his many other Michelin star restaurants.
Lunch will set you back about $108, dinner $216, all this without wine…but with one of the most spectacular views in the world.
This is a great article explaining how the renovation was done and what the new menu is like. For a special occasion, this would probably be a great place to celebrate!!
Christmas Markets are much more of a German tradition than a French tradition (excluding Alsace/Lorraine), so you might have a hard time finding the market of your dreams while in Paris at Christmastime. However there are a few that are rather noteworthy. I particularly like the Village du Pere Noel.
In the heart of the 6th arrondissement you can visit Santa’s Village, or “Le Village du Pere Noel” at the Place Saint Sulpice. There you can find booths showcasing gifts and treats from many of France’s regions.
The market is open every day through December 24. Amusez-vous!!
A great way to see all of Paris is from the top of this enormous Ferris Wheel, “La Grande Roue”. I went on the Grande Roue one time and it scared the hoo-ha out of me, I’m not a fan of heights. But the “cage” you ride in is enclosed, so you’re safe!
The wheel is well placed, right at the Place de la Concorde in central Paris. And it’s a pretty cheap thrill at 8 euros for adults and 5 euros for kids.
Hours of operation are 10:30 a.m. – midnight, and the wheel closes on January 20, 2008.
Vaux le Vicomte is one of Ile de France’s secret gems. It’s a gorgeous 17th century chateau, once belonging to Louis XIV’s finance minister before he was imprisoned for living more lavishly than the king himself.
All year, the chateau is beautiful, especially at night on the weekends when they have an illumination tour. But at Christmas, it’s even better, completely decked out for the holidays. Don’t miss it if you plan to be in the area in December.
At Christmastime, the courtyard is lined with beautiful white pine trees which lead the way to the interior of the chateau. Inside, you will see a fairy land of color and light: sparkling ornaments, twinkling lights and garlands strung throughout. Watch for The Three Wise Men who will be there to guide you to the manger scene!
From December 22, 2007 – January 6, 2008, 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (until 5 p.m. on December 24 and 31). Closed December 25 and January 1.
Price: adult, 12.50 euros
reduced price: 9.90 euros
under 6 years old: free
CHATEAU DE VAUX LE VICOMTE
Domaine de Vaux Le Vicomte 77950 MAINCY
RER : Melun
Bus : navettes les week-end et jours fériés
Information : 01 64 14 41 90
http://www.vaux-le-vicomte.com
Christmas Tree Fashion has hit the Intercontenental Le Grand in Paris!
Students from the Esmod International school of fashion have given their personal touch to 40 unique Christmas trees. These trees are made of everything from paper to cloth to rubber!
The trees will be on display at the hotel from December 4, 2007 to January 2, 2008.
INTERCONTINENTAL PARIS LE GRAND
2, rue Scribe
75009 PARIS
Métro : Opéra
