PARIS
Paris absolutely deserves the title of being the City of Love. From quaint shops, stunning neutral architecture and history, to brightly colored brasseries lining streets corners; this beautiful city is one I would highly recommend visiting! The Parisians often receive a bad rap and I found it to be quite the opposite. The moment I stepped off the train I felt welcomed and was giddy with excitement finally being in a city I have always dreamed about seeing.
Our first day we ventured to see the Latin Quarter of Paris and the Le Jardin du Luxembourg which is an absolute must see. While away the afternoon relaxing in a lawn chair with a good book or enjoy a stroll through the garden by taking in the architecture of the Palais du Luxembourg and the many sculptures throughout, plus it’s free!
The universe blessed us with beautiful weather for nearly our entire trip, and our first full day was sunny and warm. We woke early to take in as many sites as possible and you know that included the Eiffel Tower! I almost cried when I finally saw it in person, I had finally checked off my number one must see on my bucketlist. The day was spent looking at architecture and walking along the Seine admiring booths of local artists.
Our second full day we spent the first half in Montmartre or Old Paris where you can find cozy cobble stone streets, cafes and of course Sacre Coeur and the Moulin Rouge. If there was ever a place to spend the day it would be charming Montmartre known as a hub for the artists that walk the streets in berets offering to draw you.
The rest of the day we ventured to the Arc de Triomphe which is just breath taking in not only the scale but the intricate details are on another level that I couldn’t help but gawke at. Inspired by all the beautiful architecture we finally made it to the Louvre after a failed attempt the first day. Yet it worked in our favor time wise, the Lourve is massive and we spent roughly 4 hours walking through what felt like endless and beautiful exhibits. Finally ending our perfect Parisian experience seeing the Eiffel Tower glitter at night.
The Lourve
MUST EATS
Odette: Stop what you’re doing and get these mind blowing cream puffs! I loved them all but my favorites were definitely the Passion fruit and chocolate. Definitely my favorite treat in Europe!
Wine, Cheese, and a Baguette: You’ll thank me later, there is nothing parallel to this meal while in Paris. Simple and easy but perfect especially if you’re looking for a night in.
Croissants: A fresh croissant or a pain au chocolat from the local bakery down the street with a coffee is ideal to starting your first morning in Paris!
SIMPLE PARIS TIPS
Learn simple French phrases: Knowing “Bonjour”, “Merci”, and “Excusez-moi” will take you a long way in Paris plus locals definitely appreciate it.
Wear comfy shoes: Make sure to have comfortable shoes in Paris, and Europe in general. Paris is an extremely walkable city and if you’re anything like us you won’t want to stop taking in as much as you can while you’re there!
See the Eiffel Tower at night: This experience is 100% worth it.
Keep personal items close: Although we felt safe in Paris keep your personal items especially purses/wallets, passports, cellphones, etc, any other items you wish not to lose close in front of your body or locked in a safe place. Paris is known for pick pockets and scams particularly around landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacre Coeur; be smart and just stay aware.
