and if i was from Paris
I have been lucky enough to visit this magical city several times, with friends, family, and significant others. Paris has two cities, one that is lovely and busy during the day, and the other whimsical and vibrant at night. If you only have two days to experience the City of Lights, take it all in, every smell, sound, taste, and sight.
We stayed in an incredible Airbnb, a houseboat on the Seine (the river that runs through Paris), directly under the Eiffel Tower, for $70/person (https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2765864). It's a non-traditional way to stay in the city, but the views from the top of the boat make you feel like a true part of Paris. Also, the proximity to the Metro cannot be beaten.
Day 1:
If you are only in Paris for a short time, especially if it is your first time, then you need to see the landmarks that probably attracted you to this city in the first place. Paris is a walkable city, and the metro is very easy to navigate.
Start at the Notre Dame, an incredible building to see in person, especially it's beauty up against the Seine. Entrance into the cathedral is free, and if you get an early start, the lines should not be too overwhelming. After walking around the inside and outside of the Norte Dame, you can then start your walk westward to the Louvre.
If you have more than a weekend, go inside the museum, and see the incredibly impressive gallery. For a quick trip, don't discount the outside of the Louvre. The architecture and grand structure of the palace is incredible, and you’ll love the juxtaposition of the modern Louvre pyramid. Photos do not do it justice – that statement rings true for the whole city.
Following the Louvre, cross the river to the Musee d'Orsay. This museum feels tiny compared to the Louvre, but it would still take a full day to see the whole gallery. The Impressionist exhibit is my favorite, and at the same time, one of the most famous and it is indeed mesmerizing. Second Choice: Musee Rodin, not really a second choice, but it would be hard to fit them both in within a short time.
Quick Tip: Buy your ticket in advance to streamline your entrance, and focus on 1 or 2 wings. There are usually some great temporary exhibits that are worth seeing. All you need do is spend a few moments researching before heading there.
After all of this walking and exploring, you will be exhausted. Get off the main roads with the attractions, and find a great restaurant. We walked around and found La Petite Rose Des Sables which had delicious, homey French cooking for budget-friendly prices. Second Choice: Bistrot Victoires
Quick Tip: If you start later in the day, do this route in reverse. Stroll along the Left Bank for spectacular views. If you see the Louvre and Notre Dame at night, it is equally as glorious, and usually less crowded.
On your way back, take it slow. Venture down that side street that looks pretty, stop and appreciate all the lights. You never know what fantastic street café you might stumble upon with life-changing crème brûlée.
Day 2:
To continue your exploration of this magical city, use the metro to start at the Arc de Triomphe. Follow the guided signs to navigate the tunnels that will lead you to this famous monument, and not risk your life trying to cross a traffic filled round-about. From this point, you will have a grand view of the Champs-Elysees, known for its shopping, shopping, and shopping.
You can follow a map, or the skyline, to walk to the universal representation of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. It truly is breathtaking.
Quick Tip: Before crossing the bridge to get an up-close look, you can get a fantastic view (and photo) of the tower from the Trocadero Gardens. The gardens are also home to some beautiful sculptures.
You could spend time just staring in awe at the Eiffel Tower and its surroundings. The park running towards the Tower, Champ de Mars, is a wondrous place for a picnic to enjoy fresh bread, cheese, and wine. For fresh ingredients, head to Poilane, a fantastic bakery close to the park. If you stay in an AirBnB similar to ours, we took our picnic back to the top of the boat with the Eiffel Tower behind us, and the Seine in front. Second Choice: Boulangerie Benoit Maeder, a little more of a walk, but incredibly savory pastries.
As mentioned earlier, Paris at night is glorious. For dinner, head to another district of the city. I love the Latin Quarter, incredibly lively, beautiful, and historic. Each time I visit, I notice more and more tourists have discovered this area. I don’t blame them, the food is great; it feels very safe, and gives you a sense of going back in time. Second Choice: Marais
Quick Tip: If there is a particular restaurant you want to try, make sure to check open/close times. Restaurants in Paris have odd hours and can be closed entirely on some days and in the middle of the day.
Spending a weekend in Paris does not quite do this city justice. So, plan to visit it many times in your life. No matter who I visit Paris with, I always leave wanting to return. When you do have some more time to explore, put the Catacombs, Napoleons Tomb, a tour of the Louvre, and a PSG game on your list.
