I will be arriving in Paris early evening on Dec. 31 after a very long flight. I definitely do not plan to party after getting to the hotel (which I do not have yet)- my plan is to get some sleep. But, the next day, I would like to enjoy the city and do some sightseeing. I realized it will be cold so my options are limited. Any suggestions? Will most places be closed on New Year's Day? I would like to go to the Louvre but I am not sure if it will be opened. I am not sure if most restaurants will be opened either. If anybody has some good tips on what to do on a cold New Year's Day in Paris, please respond. Also, I have no idea where to stay - my preference is not too far from the major sites and not too expensive ($$ is my target). As long as it's clean, the bathroom has a decent shower, and the bed is comfortable, I'm happy. Besides, if you are in Paris, you're already feeling pretty good, right?
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
251 posts
If I remember right the Louvre is free on NYD. Now be prepared because the line was one of the longest I have ever seen to get in(before it opened). I have a panaramic picture of the line winding around and around and around the whole square.
Saying that once the museum opened the line moved very quickly, and once inside it didn't feel crowded. Also a couple hours after it opened there was no line, and someone could just walk in with very little wait.
You might want to consider staying at a hotel near the airport(designed for business travellers). Many people knock off early on New Years Day and you might have a hard time checking into a hotel.
As far as what to do. DRESS WARM and wander. I love the city in the holidays. Curl up in a (smoke-free yeah!) chocolate and just watch. The markets are full of oranges and chocolate.
I think the only thing really closed is shops and government buildings, and banks.
Posted by
Austin, TX, USA
26 posts
Good hotel from my experince and which I found from the Rick Steves France Guide is Grand Hotel Leveque www.hotel-leveque.com/#. The people there were very nice and helpful and spoke excellent English. It is on Rue Cler and close to the Eiffel Tower and just a short walk to the Metro. I was there for Christmas last year and was amazed at what was open Christmas day but was not there for New Year's so can't advise on that. There were plenty of restaurants open on Christmas so hopefully it is the same with New Year's. Do dress warmly. It was the coldest I have ever been, but then I am from the South.