Bastille Day in France

[starfish216]

Our cruise ship will be visiting France and July 14th, we were planning to take the bus to Paris. We are aware of the long bus ride from port and will have about 4-5 hours of free time. Since we live in NYC we are not interested in visiting museums (we have so many here) but would like to be out seeing the sights unique to France.

 

Does anyone have any suggestions what we can do in Paris?

 

What streets will be closed off?

 

Will we have access to the city of Paris?

 

Will businesses be open?

 

Will the Hop-on Hop-off bus be operational?

 

Any info of what Paris will be like on this holiday?

 

Thanks in advance for all your help.

[Host Bonjour]

Bastille Day in France is about the equivalent of July 4th/Independence Day is here in the USA so expect many closures in France and of course, in Paris. It's a national holiday. Museums will be closed so no worry about not seeing them.

 

The main parade usually comes down the Champs Elysées toward Place de la Concorde - don't think there will be any other street closures but of course this will be dependent upon any special plans for the day and of course, whatever security requirements deemed necessary for the city - things have changed very much as you know.

 

The Hop On/Off bus *might* run but you should contact them and check - also, do you want to be on a bus straight away after having been on a long bus ride from the port into Paris?

 

Paris is VERY compact, beautiful and walkable. Why not think about a free walking tour instead? It's a great way to really experience the city in a short period of time. Then maybe ask your guide (or keep your eyes peeled) for ANYTHING that is open that day to have a bite to eat. Fast food would more than likely be open - not very Parisian - or possibly a few "hawkish" restaurants in the Latin Quarter. Again, it's a BIG holiday and the French takes their holidays quite seriously - contractually off work and celebrating the day.

 

No matter what....you're in Paris. It's glorious - take it in and enjoy :)

[Tara Jane]

Don't know what Port you will be arriving from, but bus travel is very time consuming. I would suggest checking the trains, there are fast trains which if you purchase your ticket a few months ahead can be very reasonable.

check out thalys website they have an english site.

If you want to go up the eiffel tour be sure to pre book the tickets on line.

Edited February 2, 2017 by Tara Jane