Asides

Good Morning Florence! Visit Florence Off the Beaten Track

Dear Readers,

I must apologize for such a long silence… due to unforeseen circumstances: a short weekend trip to Tuscany turned into a three-weeks absence from Paris due to a health problem.

I am so happy to be back to Paris! And so as to be forgiven for my long and unannounced silence I have written for you a short post about Florence whose beauty and charm can compete with Paris. If you have never been there, I recommend you to go off on a jaunt and discover what is in my opinion the most beautiful of all Italian cities. And I am pleased to let you know my tips and favourite places in Florence so as to help you make the most of your visit in this magical city!

Florence-View at sunset
Florence-View at sunset

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Amazing 360° Views over Paris from the Tour Saint Jacques

Located in the very center of Paris the Tour Saint Jacques is worth seeing for its remarkable architecture in the Flamboyant Gothic style. And since 2013 it is open to visitors every summer from early June till the end of September. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, one can visit it by booking in advance a guided tour of the Tour Saint Jacques with the Association Des Mots et des Arts. Do not miss it: After climbing 300 steps one is rewarded by breath-taking 360-degree views over Paris!

View from the top of the Tour Saint Jacques-Paris
View from the top of the Tour Saint Jacques in the very center of Paris

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The Butte aux Cailles: a Must-See Village in Paris

The Butte aux Cailles is a village-like oasis located on the left bank of Paris in 13th arrondissement. It is the highest place on the left bank after the Montagne Sainte Geneviève and it peaks at… 63 meters! The Place Paul Verlaine is the top of the Butte.

The Butte aux Cailles was annexed into Paris in 1860 and was historically a working class district. It has progressively become a favourite spot for artists and hipsters. Nevertheless it has kept its village atmosphere and has not changed much since 1945 thanks to its narrow cobblestone streets and its lovely houses which cannot be replaced by higher buildings because of the limestone quarries underground. And even if the number of bars and restaurants has increased, there are still no fashion shop and no supermarket there!

At the crossing rue de la Butte aux Cailles and rue des Cinq Diamants
At the crossing rue de la Butte aux Cailles and rue des Cinq Diamants

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