Rick Steves' 2009 Paris by Gene Openshaw, Rick Steves, Steve Smith (2008, Paperback)

We used Rick Steves Italy book and it was FABULOUS...very well done with great ideas and tour/itineraries for the realistic tourist. Unfortunately, Paris wasn't as clear and concise. I do love the scoring system he uses (3 triangles= must see, 2=good, 1=good to see, if possible). We were able to see all those on his list. It was also important to learn of the Musuem Pass, which truly does pay for itself in no time flat (only 2 sites per day to make it worth it). The pitfall: THE MAPS!!!! He needs to print real maps instead of hand drawn ones. They are enough to get yourself CLOSE, but not to the desired site without frustration. Also, Rick Steves only talks about the things he is interested in, so if it is of little interest it may not be in the book. I recommend a supplemental book and a STREETWISE MAP(laminated folding map for your pocket/backpack)for Paris for ease of getting around via roads, metro, and buses. I like that the book fits in a cargo pocket and is easily toted around the city. We did see it at every site in nearly every language, so it is a solid choice, just could be a little better when compared to other guides in Europe done by R.S.