Paris lived up to all my expectations, but I regret not having more time to explore everything it has to offer….
Paris exudes romance in every aspect, from its enchanting restaurants and upscale dining options to its luxurious shopping destinations and iconic Parisian architecture. It offers the ideal escape for couples deeply in love, with experiences that don’t strain the budget – just two souls wandering hand in hand, savoring the picturesque vistas.
When choosing where to stay in Paris, prioritize accommodations near the city center to optimize your time and exploration. Many major tourist attractions are conveniently located in close proximity to each other. In my experience, our hotel was nearly 40 minutes away from the places we wanted to visit, resulting in excessive spending on taxis. While our 4-star hotel near Charles de Gaulle Airport was nice, I wouldn’t recommend it due to the distance from the city center.
Now that you’ve settled in, here are a few things you might like to see while you’re in Paris:
The Eiffel Tower Area
The very symbol of Paris. Have you even been to Paris if you haven’t taken a picture here? You can purchase tickets to visit the Eiffel Tower either online in advance or at the ticket booths located at the tower’s base. Picnic at The Champ de Mars park, located at the base of the tower, is a popular. You can also stroll along the Seine River or visit nearby landmarks such as the Musée du Quai Branly or the Musée de l’Armée.
Consider visiting the Eiffel Tower in the evening to witness the tower illuminated against the night sky. The sparkling lights display occurs every hour after sunset and lasts for about five minutes.
Boat Cruise Along River Seine
Embark on a delightful boat cruise along the River Seine, where you’ll glide past iconic landmarks and picturesque scenery, immersing yourself in the beauty of Paris from a unique perspective.
One thing I found very fascinating is the tradition of love padlocks on bridges, including those over the River Seine in Paris. Couples write their names or initials on a padlock, attach it to the bridge, and then throw the key into the river as a symbol of their enduring love and commitment. The most famous bridge for this tradition in Paris was the Pont des Arts, which was covered in thousands of padlocks until the weight became too much for the bridge structure, prompting authorities to remove them.
Louvre Museum
Housing thousands of artworks, including the renowned Mona Lisa, the Louvre Museum stands as one of the world’s largest and most frequented museums.
The Louvre offers various ticket options, including standard admission tickets and skip-the-line tickets. Again, you can purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket counters. It’s advisable to check the museum’s official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special exhibitions or closures.
Explore Champs-Elysees
The Champs-Élysées, renowned worldwide, is an iconic avenue in Paris characterized by its grandeur and elegance.
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With its prestigious boutiques, luxury brands, and flagship stores, it attracts shoppers from around the globe. From high-end fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Chanel to iconic department stores like Galleries Lafayette, the Champs-Élysées offers a plethora of shopping opportunities for those seeking luxury and style. Additionally, the avenue is dotted with charming cafes, cinemas, and theaters, making it a vibrant destination for both shopping and leisure. Whether you’re browsing for designer goods or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Champs-Élysées promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Paris.
The Arc de Triomphe
While strolling , don’t miss the Arc de Triomphe, right the at the Centre of champ Elyees. The Arc de Triomphe, one of the most iconic monuments in Paris, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle.
Beneath the vault of the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial honoring unidentified soldiers who died in World War I. The eternal flame at the tomb is rekindled every evening at 6:30 PM. Visitors can climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe to enjoy panoramic views of Paris, including landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. There are 284 steps to reach the top, or you can take an elevator part of the way.
Explore the Cafes – Food Food Food.
Be sure to sample the Parisian croissants to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Amidst your touring hours, indulge in fine dining experiences while you converse and immerse yourself in the beauty you’ve encountered. Perhaps a hot chocolate and croissant would suffice, but in my case, I opted for a two-course Chinese meal. After witnessing such overwhelming beauty, I needed something heartier to digest the experience.
In conclusion, my advice is to savor your time in Paris. There’s undoubtedly more to discover beyond the typical tourist attractions, so take your time and immerse yourself in the city’s charm. Engage with locals to uncover hidden gems and non-touristy activities. Feel the pulse of the city, breathe in its atmosphere, and let the French “bonjour” greet you at every turn.
Personally, I adore Paris and aspire to return not just as a traveler but as someone who visits regularly, whether for work or leisure. Paris resonates with my vibe, and it’s a place I feel truly connected to.
Bonjour!
With love,
BM
