THE CITY OF LIGHT AND LOVE

It's one of the world's most well recognised and loved cities - and it definitely lives up to its expectations.

Paris, the land of love, is in my opinion one of the most beautiful capital cities in Europe. Granted, I haven't yet visited all European capital cities to get an accurate comparison, but I'm sure this would be in the top five.

It has some of the most recognised architecture. The Eiffel Tower is probably Paris’ most famous attraction as it attracts around 7 million people per year. Since the tower's 1889 opening, 250 million people from around the world have enjoyed all that the Eiffel Tower has to offer.

The tower was actually constructed as the main exhibit of the World's Fair of 1889. It was built to commemorate the birthday of the French Revolution and to demonstrate that France was an industrial powerhouse.

There are also other sites such as the broad Arc de Triomphe which guards Paris’ most glamorous avenue, the Champs-Élysées – where you can shop to your hearts content.

The gargoyled Notre Dame cathedral is also a beautifilly saturated piece of history along with many lamped bridges which span the length of the River Seine throughout the city.

The city got its title as 'The City of Lights’ as there are over 296 illuminated sites in Paris covering hotels, churches, statues, fountains and national buildings and monuments. The Eiffel Tower also sparkles at night and be seen far across the city.

Along with history, Paris is renowned for its food. Pastries, macaroons, cheese, wine - you can't visit this city without trying all of them. The best coffee I've ever had was in Paris!

As Valentines Day pops arounds again this year, I'd definitely recommend Paris for a romantic break - as cliche as it sounds!

[Hotel stayed in: TimHotel Montmartre]