Eiffel Tour, iconic architecture, cheese shops, elegant streets, fashion boutiques, and bakeries paint a perfect picture in a person’s mind when he/ she talks about the city of romance, Paris. A dream destination for millions of people, Paris has a lot to offer. Yes, when I say a lot I mean loads of museums, monuments, food, and clothes hopping. Having plentiful attractions in the city, it becomes difficult to frame a perfect list of things to do in Paris. To burst this bubble of clumsiness, here are a few insights on how to plan a trip to Paris.
The Paris city tour looks different in different seasons. If you are visiting the capital during the months of winter that are from late November and last up until February, expect grey skies with a pinch of snow, at times. The tourist inflow is less, hence you can have more of uninterrupted pictures of yourself and Paris. Talking about the summers, the hot season here is synonymous to waterparks, picnics, fun and of course, crowds.
There are a few mandatory places that you cannot afford to miss while you plan a trip to Paris. So here’s to the most famous places in the city of love!
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Eiffel Tower
Creation of Gustave Eiffel, there is nothing as dreamy as the Eiffel tower. The face of Paris, this piece of architecture deserves your visit. During the daytime, the beauty of the tower doubles, all thanks to the greenery and bundles of flowers around it. Talking about the moonlit night, the site comes straight out of fairyland with the tower all lit up.
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Louvre
World’s most visited art museum, Le Louvre finds itself in the heart of the city. Formerly a royal palace, the museum has a collection of Egyptian antiquities, graphic arts, Greek, Roman and Etruscan work, Islamic Art, Sculptures from the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Modern Times, objects of art and last but not the least paintings.
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Notre Dame Cathedral
An ideal of French Gothic architecture in Europe, Notre Dame suffered damages during the April 5th, 2019 fire. Hence, it is closed until further notice. If fortunate enough, you might be able to witness its magnificence during our trip to Paris in future.
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Arc of Triumph
Casting the spell of Roman Architecture, the triumphal arch is dedicated to 558 generals and their victories. Their names are sculptured on the arc’s pillars. Saluting the glory of imperial armies, Napoleon chose Jean Chagrin for designing the monument.
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Sacré-Cœur
Welcoming around 11 million visitors every year, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is France’s second most visited cathedral. Situated atop the hill, the Roman catholic church is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
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Palace of Versailles
The most popular castle in France, Château de Versailles is a symbol of French supremacy in the European continent. Built-in the 17th century, it was the seat of political power in the french kingdom from 1682 to 1789. Beautiful gardens, lavish decorations, Renaissance art, antique furniture, etc. could be seen in the vicinity of this castle.
- Grenier au Pain: Best for baguette sandwiches and shakes
Address: 127 rue Caulaincourt, 75018 (Montmartre)
- LE COQUELICOT: Best for quick bites and desserts
Address: 24 rue des Abbesses, 75018
- URFA DÜRÜM: Best for Turkish and kebab sandwich
Address: 58 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010
- Breizh Cafe: Serves best crepes in Paris
Address: 109 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003
- Bistrot Victoires: Best for French Classics (local cuisine)
Address: 6 rue de la Vrillière, 75001
- L’Express de Lyon: Best for cheapest craft beer and French dishes
Address: 1 Rue de Lyon, 75012
- FERMIER GOURMET: Best for French and European cuisine. Ducks, chicken, fries, you ask for it and they have it.
Address: 185 rue du Temple, 75003
- Rue Du Commerce: A popular hub of cute cafes and small boutiques
What to shop: Skincare products, dresses, makeup
Where to find it: 15th Arrondissement
- Le Marais: Vintage shops, trendy boutiques, and classy restaurants, that’s Le Marais for you.
What to shop: Home decor, vintage articles, glasses, and many more
Where to find it: 3rd Arrondissement
- Triangle D’or: Top-notch brands make their way here
What to shop: Designer jewellery, perfumes, LV bags
Where to find it: 8th Arrondissement
- Rue De Rivoli: They say this place offers the best shopping experience
What to shop: Classy shoes, chic accessories, elegant fashion wear
Where to find it: Rue De Rivoli
- Boulevard Saint Germain: Starts from the river Seine, gourmet stores, fashion stores and home decor stores, this street will make you drool over everything it has.
What to shop: Accessories, high-end party wear, home decor materials
- Where to find it: 7th Arrondissement
Make sure to keep the below-listed things in your mind.
- Avoid eating at touristy places
- Don’t gamble away your money on street games
- Stand on the right side of the escalator
- Very obvious, learn basic french phrases
- In case you smoke, do not throw cigarettes on the street. Throw them in the trash bin
- Travel on foot as navigating in the city is super easy
And, these were the main highlights that you must have on your tips while you plan a trip to Paris. Don’t forget to click awesome pictures in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Happy Travelling!
