The Eiffel Tower is on everyone’s list of things to do in Paris. Time your visit so that once you get to the top, you can watch the sunset and see the city lights come up.
We'll always have Paris -Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca
Paris has spectacular pink sunsets in the summer. By the time you get down, it’ll be night, and you’ll be able to get photos of it all lit up. Enjoy a glass of champagne at the top of the tower, lunch at the new 58 Tour Eiffel on the first floor, or an elegant dinner at Le Jules Verne.
You could spend days wandering around The Louvre, so schedule at least half a day. The Mona Lisa is arguably the museum’s highlight, but there are many more impressive works of art.
If you’re looking for the best views of Paris with the Eiffel Tower in sight, head to The Arc de Triomphe. The entrance is underground, so be sure to look for the signs.
Don’t miss the neighborhood of Montmartre. It is dedicated to arts and local artists. You’ll find more local color in its intricate back streets and laneways than in the center of Paris. It’s known as the ‘old Paris’ where time seems to stand still.
Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Our Lady of Paris) is on l'île de la Cité in Paris. Notre Dame is an important example of French Gothic architecture. Built in the middle of the Seine River, work on the cathedral began in 1163 and took nearly 200 years to complete.
Musée d’Orsay is Home to the Impressionists
Experience the soaring roof of one of Paris’s grand old Beaux-Art railway stations. The Musée d’Orsay is home to the impressionist works of Cezanne, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, Gaugin, and others. Take the time to see these works with your own eyes.
The Palace of Versailles, also known as the Château de Versailles, is technically just out of Paris. You could easily spend a day in Versailles and explore the city surrounding the palace. Although if you’re short on time, it’s also manageable to only spend half a day.
The Jardin du Luxembourg, or the Luxembourg Garden, located in the 6th arrondissement, was created in 1612. It is currently the most significant public park in Paris. If you plan on picnicking, forget to bring a blanket – the elegantly manicured lawns are off-limits. Instead, sit on one of the iconic 1923-designed sage-green metal chairs and find your favorite part of the park.
Shopping the Heart of Paris
Briston - 24 rue de Poitou 75003 Paris – FrancPhoto byBriston
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is arguably the world’s most famous and beautiful boulevard. There is shopping everywhere, so pick your place and enjoy the experience. Paris has many flagship stores, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Sephora. Set out to explore the many luxurious boutiques around the city.
First visits can be overwhelming. Knowing where to begin and what to do makes Paris easier.
Bonne chance, mes amis!
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Douglas Pilarski is an award-winning writer & journalist based on the West Coast. He writes about luxury goods, exotic cars, horology, tech, food, lifestyle, equestrian and rodeo, and millionaire travel.
He is a regular contributor to Newsbreak.com and Medium.com.
You’re welcome to share your thoughts or tell me your story. Contact me at dp1@sawyertms.com
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