Visiting Paris should be on top of everyone's 'Things I must do before I die' list.
A bustling city steeped in culture and history the city of Paris is a real head-turner with its exquisite boulevards and fabulous structures including the Notre Dame de Paris, Chateau de Versailles, Assemblée Nationale and, of course, the world-renowned Eiffel Tower.
If you are visiting Paris for the first time you would be well-advised to plan your trip for winter.
Why? Because during spring time, with the tourist season at its peak, this majestic city resembles a beehive going into overdrive.
Also, fares are less expensive during winter and fall.
But that needn't be your only reason for visiting Le Paris in its non-touristic season.
Winter happens to be the time of the Montmartre Wine Harvest festival which shows off the city in a completely different light.
Additionally, if you happen to visit around Christmas time expect a truly luminous visual treat thanks to shops (called boutiques) and museums decked out in beautiful bright lights.
On any one afternoon, take a walk down Avenue des Champs Elysees dotted with coffee shops and luxury boutiques while the skies above are graying.
Catch a bus or take the metro that will deposit you next to the Musée du Louvre.
Imagine gazing at the world-famous Mona Lisa for as long as you'd like without jostling for elbow space.
All the attractions do not take place indoors, however.
One of Europe's largest rock festivals, the Festival des Inrockuptibles, takes place in winter.
Even those who are not particularly musically inclined cannot stay away from its magnetic appeal.
For those who love the outdoors irrespective of the weather's vagaries would love to take advantage of the ice skating rink near the Montparnasse railway station.
Winter is also the time for sales and discounts on luxury items, souvenirs and designer clothes.
A great way of uplifting your wardrobe and dresser, surely.
Truth be told, any time is a good time for visiting this fabulous City of Lights.
Just ensure you get the best deals on hotels and great discounts on tickets.