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Ile de la Cite
Île de Cité is an island on the Siene River in Paris that is home to the Notre Dame Cathedral. Île de Cité island has become a real estate gem with exclusive apartments that draw people from around the globe. Visitors to Île de Cité will note a long history told through architectural details and unique city planning. One of the original occupying groups of Île de Cité included Julius Ceasers‘ Romans, and throughout the centuries, the area has seen a rise in Christianity which included the construction of cathedrals and smaller churches. Notre Dame Cathedral is the main attraction these days, but its construction was preceded by a long history of religious architecture.
As one of only two islands left that connects to Paris, Île de Cité is a site of historical and cultural interest as well. The Pont Neuf, or “new bridge” which was finished in the seventeenth century connects the island to central paris. Point Zero, known as the center of France and as the place from which all distances in the country are measured, lies in front of the cathedral doors in Île de Cité.
Early city planning in the region of Place Dauphine is responsible for today’s attractive neighborhoods. Modern Île de Cité is a walkable locale allowing travelers to explore on foot. A flower market greets visitors with vibrant colors and ample variety throughout the year.
Things to do
Perhaps the most popular draw to Île de Cité is Notre Dame Cathedral, which is open daily through the year. Open hours are from 8:00 am to 6:pm Mondays through Fridays and 8:00 am to 7:15 pm on weekends. Visitors can access the cathedral free of charge and attend one of the daily mass sessions held four times per day. Another site of interest is the Palais de Justice, or the Justice Palace, with architectural design that encourages visitors to stop and marvel.
The neighborhood around the park of Place Dauphine holds cafes, restaurants, fun foot traffic and people-watching. It is an area known for choice properties, including desireable apartments.
How to get there
Île de Cité is connected to mainland Paris by bridge and houses one metro stop, called Cité. Visitors can catch a metro from Central Paris to the Cité stop in Île de Cité. The Réseau Express Régionale, or RER, is a system of express trains, run mostly above ground and connects the Left Bank of central Paris to Île de Cité
Where to Stay
Stay right in the heart of Île de Cité to access Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the rest of Paris. Hotel accommodations range in amenities and prices, and travelers can plan their stay based on their budgets and must-have niceties. With a plentitude of options, location might be the deciding factor. Higher end options include four star hotels such as the Relais Hotel Du Vieux Paris, near the Palace of Justice. Three star accommodations include Le Notre Dame and the Albe Hotel. The four hundred year old boutique property of Le Notre Dame hotel boasts an easy walk to Notre Dame Cathedral, the new bridge and the beach. Amenities include an onsite bar and lounge, concierge and complimentary wireless internet.
Food
Finding classic French food in Paris is a task complicated only by the range of selection. Travelers limited by time can explore the culinary scene in
Île de Cité on foot. Restaurants in and around Île de Cité that are often recommended by critics and other travelers include Quai Quai on Quai des orfèvres and La Rose de France, which offers traditional French cuisine.
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