There is so much new in Paris this year, it’s been hard to keep up! New museum openings, new services cropping up and even a new Paris tour that I’m offering.
I’ve already covered What’s New in France this year which also contains some Paris highlights, but there was more than enough happening to create a stand alone post for Paris. I keep adding to it as things pop up – so make sure you check back often.
New Museums, Tours and Attractions
> After a six-year restoration, amid lots of drama, the Picasso Museum finally reopened. The new space at the Hôtel Salé is more than double the size of the old, showcases more than 400 works in a fabulous space, and includes a garden and courtyard.
> A newcomer, the Louis Vuitton museum opened in a beautiful Frank Gehry designed building that some say resembles a spaceship or glass sails. In true Paris fashion (pun intended) there is also a restaurant on site.
> Speaking of museums. The three most visited museums will soon be open seven days a week! This will make your planning much easier. The big three are the Louvre, Versaillies and Musée d’Orsay and technically new hours don’t take effect until 2015, but I know you’ll be planning early, riiiiight?
> The Eiffel Tower recently revealed a new glass floor. Those who are able to handle the feeling of walking on air and seeing 200 feet straight down to the ground have been having fun with all the photo ops provided. Those with vertigo or a fear of heights should probably skip it!
> 25 years after shutting down, the Piscine Molitor has again reopened. Swimming in this luxury pool, in the 16th arrondissement comes with a hefty pricetag – daily entrance fees run about $245. Nope, that’s not a typo.
> Are you familiar with Vélib’? It’s a bike sharing program in Paris. Well, this year the city launched a similar bike sharing program for kids! It’s called P’tit Vélib’ and it’s a great way for families to explore Paris.
> I’ve partnered with a local to offer a new Paris tour. This one is a relaxed walking tour in the Marais, exploring history, architecture and includes a real French breakfast, private lunch at a century-old bistro and a cheese and wine lesson.
New Travel & Apps
> Great news if you live on the East Coast of the U.S. A new all business-class airline, La Compagnie has started offering round-trip flights from New York’s JFK to Charles de Gaulle in Paris.
> Paris airports are now offering free unlimited WiFi at both Charles de Gaulle and Orly.
> It seems like every big city has a new taxi smartphone app and Paris is no exception. The city launched Paris Taxis, a free app for both iPhone and Android. It’s not an Uber-style app where you actually order and pay for a ride, it’s more to let a driver see you or to tell you where the closest cabs are.
> History, art and literary types will find the Travel by Art app worth a download. The 2o tours of Paris explore the lives and walk in footsteps of greats like Ernest Hemingway, Edith Piaf and more. Maps can be used offline, without an Internet connection. The app is free, but requires in app purchases for some tours.
Are you planning a visit to Paris and are stuck or overwhelmed by all the options? Click here to see how I can help.