As part of our series of Greentraveller's Guides to European cities reachable by train, we have produced a guide to Paris.

From the exquisite elegance of the Place des Vosges to the gargoyles of Notre Dame and the gracious boulevards built by Haussmann, it would be implausible not to love Paris. It is, of course, a city big on romance and on urban chic. And these striking factors result in no small part from the great seam of inventive energy here

Greentraveller's Guide to Paris shows visitors how to make the most of the city's local scene, featuring local food and drink, places to stay, local attractions, activities, and how to travel to and around the city by public transport, including in-depth information on how to travel from London to Paris by train.

Professional travel writer Rhiannon Batten (right) has chosen a smattering of green places to stay in Paris, from a frills-free hotel with free bike hire and organic breakfasts, to a townhouse hotel full of old-fashioned charm and Eiffel Tower views.

Rhiannon writes: "Paris continually pushes the boundaries of landscaping, architecture and civic engineering. In 1889 Gustave Eiffel’s new ironwork tower was radical. Today such creative drive continues with a notably green theme.

"In November 2011, Paris city council announced their new Biodiversity Plan, for which they aim to extend the electric tramway system, create at least seven hectares of roof gardens and encourage greater awareness of urban ecology among Parisians. The organic market is thriving and among other measures, green tourist enterprises have been developing, creating employment and enabling visitors to meet Parisians and appreciate the city from an insider’s perspective."

Rhiannon has also picked out a handful of her favourite places to eat in Paris: there's the popular organic vegetarian café close to the Pompidou Centre, a tiny bistro dishing up french classics such as Lozere lamb with apple puree, and a relaxed restaurant offering an organic detox and massage lunchtime menu!

You can explore Paris' thriving culture at the many local attractions in Paris across the city, from markets and museums to parks and visitor centres: we've selected just a few of our favourite spots. There are lots of activities in Paris, too: discover hidden Paris with a visit the city's centre for craftsmen and artisans or on a walk which follows one the city's disused railway lines.

Greentraveller's Chief Executive, Richard Hammond, says: “We hope this Greentraveller’s Guide to Paris will help visitors make the most of their time in this wonderful city in a way that utilises the city's many convenient car-free options whilst bringing local economic benefits.

"This guide is the latest of our online visitor guides for cities easily reachable by rail from the UK that are proving popular with holidaymakers looking for that special local touch."