Paris Flights and Travel Guide

Eiffel Tower

Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) could never have guessed that it would become Paris's signature sight and attract more than six million visitors a year. It was built as a temporary structure to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution and was opened by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII of England. It was considered an eyesore by many and there were petitions to have it pulled down. It was saved only because it had become an important antenna for telegraphy. It towers 984ft above the Champ de Mars and until 1930 was the world's tallest building. The highest of its three levels offers a wonderful panoramic view over Paris.

Address: Champ de Mars 7

Telephone: (01) 4411 2323 (recorded information)

Web site:www.tour-eiffel.fr

Transport: RER Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel station; Mtro Bir-Hakeim, Trocadro, Ecole Militaire; bus 42, 69, 72, 82, 87

Opening time: Daily 9.30am to midnight (16 June to 2 September); closing at 11pm (1 January to 15 June and 3 September to 31 December)

Admission: By elevator 1st floor €4.20; 2nd floor €7.70; 3rd floor €11 (adults). By stairs - €3.80 (only up to 2nd floor). Concessions availableNotre-Dame

Notre-Dame looms large over the Place de Parvis, on the Isle de la Cité, and is the most enduring symbol of Paris. Built between 1163 and 1345 the Cathedral is considered one of the of the world's Gothic masterpieces. The massive interior can seat 6,000 and it is dominated by three spectacular and enormous rose windows and a vast 7,800-pipe organ. The 387-step climb to the top of the towers is worth the effort for the panoramic view of the city and the close-up views of the famous gargoyles. The tower also holds the great bell that was rung by Quasimodo, the fictional hunchback. Opposite the North door is a museum that displays the Cathedral's history, while under the square in front of the Cathedral is the crypt that houses Notre-Dame's archeological museum.

Address: 6 Place du Parvis de Notre-Dame

Telephone: (01) 4234 5610