Customer Reviews

Lonely Planet Paris Condensed (Condensed Guides)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Paris: Condensed has (almost) EVERYTHING I've always wanted and looked for in a guidebook: fits in my pocket; wonderful, well laid out graphic design; useful, concise information on sites both large and small; excellent fold-out maps that stay attached to the book (and aren't embarassing to have to open up out in public); great listings of shops, restaurants and lodging. The only thing they missed out on was an index of street names for the maps (I still give it 5 stars, though).

In short, you get everything you'd possibly need (except the aforementioned street index) when out and about in a very slick, user-friendly package. I eagerly await expansion of this series!

I am a fan of Lonely Planet and used the Paris Condensed guide for my last trip. The good thing: it realy fits in your pocket and the street maps are ok. We picked a hotel from the recommended list and liked it. On the other side: It is so condensed that it just gives you a very rough overview of the major attractions. For someone who has never heard of Paris and just goes there for one day, it is good. However if you want to sit down in a cafe and find out just a little bit about the history of a monument or which parts of a museum are containing what, then this book is not for you. Next time I'll go back, I will get the normal version of the Lonely Planet City Guide.

This is the perfect guidebook. Yes, it is small and doesn't have all the info in on history or details of places, but that's what makes it so great. Fits in the back pocket and very easy to read when you're on the Metro or walking the streets. It might be a good idea to have a more detailed guidebook for history lessons on the great places in Paris, but for basic info and directions - this is the book for you...

We borrowed this guide from a friend and let me tell you, I'm glad we did! It was perfect for what we needed for our first short trip to Paris. It had very nice descriptions and pictures of places to see and things to do. The metro maps were very helpful and the book was easy to read, and easy to carry around everywhere we went. It really helped us to plan our trip and decide what we wanted to see during our stay.

My review is of the 1st edition. It was my "bible" when I was in Paris. Also bought the one for Rome. The maps are worth the price alone. Going to Paris this fall and will buy the new edition. Small, convenient, durable - a must have for your trip if you are at all adventurous.