Whole neighborhoods and ancient buildings were torn down in the 19th century by Baron Haussmann to make room for wide and modern boulevards. The area is still referred to as Les Grands Boulevards.

It's mostly a business district with many large department stores, travel agents, airlines companies and bank headquarters close to the Opera House, on either Haussmann Boulevard or on Boulevard des Italiens. You'll also find here the Jacquemart André Museum which is a great Museum. The Opera Garnier is a wonderful building which greets ballets in an extraordinary room. You can visit it but you'd better go and see a dance show.

Saint-Lazare station is where you'll go to catch a train for Normandy, Deauville and Etretat in particular. At the beginning of the century Normandy was the trendy destination for the high Parisian society. Proust for example was very found of this region. This station is still now very busy and will have you in Normandy in about two hours, but it's also a commuter station. Concorde Saint Lazare Hotel is located very close to the station and was built by Gustave Eiffel. If you don't sleep there just have a look at the hall: splendid!

Don't miss the great department stores. Tourists as well as Parisians do their shopping here ! Toys, linens, clothing, furniture, Hi-Fis, everything you want is here… You only have to buy the flat that goes with. In addition, the buildings are beautiful. It's an endless show et and the place you have always dreamt of to do your shopping. The subway station is Havre Caumartin or the RER station Auber.

Strolling South to Tuileries Park, you'll meet Vendome Square which gathers luxurious jewelers. Some chic hotels are also located in this area. It's a very pleasant stroll is sure to make you dream a bit.

Walking to the East part, you'll arrive at the Palais Royal with its calm gardens next to la Comédie Française: theater where classical plays are performed.