Bonjour, my fellow travelers! Paris – the city of light, love, and croissant – was everything I dreamed of and more! I’ve always felt that Paris had this magical pull, and let me tell you, once you’re there, you feel it. Every street corner is oozing with charm, every café is an invitation to people-watch, and every landmark? Well, they’re as iconic as you’d expect, but seeing them in person just adds a whole new layer of magic.
Let’s dive into my adventure in Paris, where I indulged in food, art, and endless charm, and I’ll share some practical tips along the way!
The Parisian Essentials
My first stop (and probably everyone’s first stop) was the iconic Eiffel Tower. Whether you’re gazing up at it from the ground or taking the elevator to the top, it’s one of those sights that just makes your heart skip a beat. I chose to visit the Eiffel Tower in the evening – pro tip: it lights up every hour on the hour with twinkling lights, and it’s nothing short of magical! You can grab a seat at the nearby Champ de Mars park with a snack (hello, baguette!) and just soak it all in.
Next up was the Louvre. Now, I could spend days in there – there’s just so much to see, from the mysterious Mona Lisa to ancient Egyptian artifacts. If you’re like me and want to see the highlights, plan your route ahead of time, because this place is massive! Also, if you’re not in the mood for long lines, I recommend visiting the Louvre in the late afternoon when the crowds are smaller.
Strolling Through History
One of my absolute favorite things to do in Paris was just walking around. The Seine River is breathtaking, especially at sunset, and crossing the bridges, like the Pont Alexandre III, feels like walking through a movie scene. If you have time, take a river cruise – seeing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective!
The Notre-Dame Cathedral, though still under restoration after the 2019 fire, is another must-see. Even from the outside, it’s stunning. The gothic architecture and the details are mesmerizing, and you can imagine the stories this building has witnessed over centuries. Just a stone’s throw away is the charming Île de la Cité, perfect for a leisurely stroll through quaint streets.
For the Love of Pastries & Food
Oh, the food! If you love pastries, Paris is a dream come true. Every morning, I made it a ritual to stop by a local boulangerie for a fresh croissant or pain au chocolat, paired with a café au lait. There’s nothing quite like starting your day with flaky, buttery pastries that simply melt in your mouth. From almond croissants to sweet fruit-filled treats, each bite is more delicious than the last.
For lunch, the choices are just as mouth-watering. Whether you enjoy a classic croque-monsieur or a fresh baguette sandwich, Parisian food is all about simple yet rich flavors. In the evening, cozy up in a neighborhood bistro for hearty dishes like steak frites or duck confit, and don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine. And for dessert? Indulging in decadent chocolate mousse or crème brûlée is the perfect sweet ending to a day in Paris.
Art, Culture & Shopping
If you love art, Paris is basically your personal playground. Beyond the Louvre, I fell in love with the Musée d’Orsay, which is housed in a former railway station. The museum focuses on impressionist and post-impressionist works, with masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. It’s a little less crowded than the Louvre and just as magical.
I also made sure to wander through the quirky neighborhood of Montmartre, home to the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Climbing up the steps to the basilica gives you one of the best panoramic views of Paris – seriously, it’s worth every step. Montmartre is also full of cute little art galleries, and you might even see artists sketching in the streets!
If shopping is your thing, you’ll want to visit the luxury stores along Champs-Élysées. But for more unique finds, head over to the Le Marais district, where vintage shops and indie boutiques will give you that chic Parisian flair.
Practical Tips for Your Parisian Adventure
- Language: While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases (like “bonjour” and “merci”) goes a long way! Parisians appreciate the effort, and it makes your experience more authentic.
- Metro Magic: Paris has an excellent metro system, and it’s the best way to get around the city. Buy a “carnet” of 10 tickets for convenience, and don’t forget your comfy shoes – Paris is a city best explored on foot.
- Best time to visit Paris: Paris is wonderful all year round, but if you want fewer crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall). Christmas in Paris is also beautiful with all the lights, especially at Galeries Lafayette.
- Museum Pass: If you plan on visiting several museums, the Paris Museum Pass is a great value. It grants you skip-the-line access to many major sights, saving you time and money!
A Final Note on Paris
Paris has a rhythm to it—a pace that’s both fast and slow at the same time. It’s a city where you can explore all the major attractions but also get lost in the little things, like sipping espresso at a café or browsing books along the Seine. It’s the perfect blend of history, art, food, and charm, all wrapped up in that signature Parisian elegance.
Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, Paris has a way of making you feel like you’re discovering it for the very first time. I’m already dreaming about my next visit!
Until then, stay bubbly and keep exploring! ✨🥐
Xoxo,
Bubbly🎈
