Paris. The city that holds my heart. The city of love. The city of lights.
With a whopping 35 million visitors per year (and more), acknowledging the capital of France as one of the world’s most favourite destinations is a no-brainer. And I swear, it’s all for good reason. Not only is this city a beautiful gem that is easy on the eyes, there is SO MUCH for you to see and do!
From exploring the local neighbourhoods to spending countless hours in world-renowned, historically-rich museums, on any given day you are spoiled for choice. And let’s not talk about the amazing French cuisine or French fashion. When you go over there, you better make sure that your stomach and your wallet are prepared!
In a nutshell, in Paris boredom is virtually impossible! You can easily spend weeks or months exploring Paris, and STILL not see it in its entirety (sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but on the bright side, what a great reason to go again right?!). Nevertheless, in 3 days there are key activities that you REALLY should do. Want to know what they are?
Here is my in-depth recap of 3 days in magical Paris. If all you had were 3 days in Paris, these are the most important attractions that you must see, and this is precisely how you ought to spend it.
But before we dive in, don’t forget to grab your FREE “Globetrotter Girlie” Travel-Packing Checklist – a handy dandy tool to get you perfectly prepped for your next adventure!
Also, beware! Make sure you get comfy, grab a bag of popcorn or some chips, and your fave beverage to sip on, because this is a LONG one! Hope you enjoy this travel diary of my experiences in magical Paris, and that it inspires you to visit!
In the words of Audrey Hepburn, “Paris is always a good idea”.
THE PERFECT TIME
So, first of all, Paris is the type of city that you can visit at any time of the year. I swear! This place is #GOALS all year round! However, as a tropical island girl, I admit I am biased toward the sunshine, great weather, busy-ness, activity, hustle and bustle, and high energetic vibes Paris gives during the warmer months.
For us, this weather was perfect because it meant spending long hours wandering the great outdoors, enjoying picnics in the grass, and breathing in the fresh air, instead of couped up in a café (although Parisian cafes are indeed hella chic and adorable).
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive a small amount of compensation for my book addiction, at no cost to you. I only write about what I am passionate about and have personally used or experienced in my own life so that I can add maximum value to yours!
But if you’re not a fan of crowds or sweltering heat, then skipping the summer months may be ideal for you.
If you’re a Fall and Spring kinda gal, this means less crowds and cooler temperatures. Yay! In the Spring, you get to bask in the wonder of Paris in full bloom, as nature begins to awaken again. If you’re lucky, you may even see cherry blossoms! Yass!
Then, in the Fall, the city is on fire. Not only is it still sunny, but the bold reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees are stunning and worth the experience, especially in the parks.
Lastly, Winter does mean cold temperatures but also significantly less crowds, and a beautifully decorated city in full Christmas bloom to witness.
Honestly, there is no bad time of the year to visit Paris. Every time is the perfect time. All you have to do is decide what an ultimate Parisian stay would look like for you, and then go from there! Or, just go! Period.
THE PERFECT LOCATION
I wish I could tell you that we stayed in the most centrally-located, amazing, budget-friendly accommodation whilst we stayed in Paris, but that would be a lie.
It’s so shameful, but to be honest babe, my sister and I actually never left the Charles de Gaulle airport campus – Terminal 3 to be exact.
Long story short, for this trip we experimented with the British Airways hotel-flight “City Break” combos (because Paris can be soo expensive), and our budget led us to hotel chain, Ibis Hotel.
Little did we know that this Ibis Hotel was amongst the global chain of hotels that reside within the CDG airport’s perimeter.
Truly, I was extremely excited to be back in Paris after approximately 10 years, so imagine my dismay when the Uber had already dropped us at the hotel before I could bask in any roadtrip views of Parisian activity, vibrancy and beauty.
“We’re here already?!” I asked, mentally erasing visualizations of me whipping out my phone, mid-drive, to snap photos of Paris for my Instagram stories. Ha! Talk about disappointment.
The good thing was that we only had 4 days there, because there was nothing amazing or inspiring, worthy of mention. So I’ll just give you some pros and cons to be mindful of if you consciously plan on going down the route of a chain budget hotel (…but hopefully not!)…
Cons
Let’s start with the cons first!
Not sure if we just got unlucky with our room, but the bathroom plugs in our room did not work, so I had to flat iron my hair at the desk in the room – which had no mirror so I could not see what I was doing. Thank goodness my sister was there to help! (sounds small but we all know it’s the little things that count).
The food was not the best in the buffet restaurant
Some reception staff were quite unfriendly
No beautiful, aesthetically-pleasing bedroom window views for me – only the neighbouring buildings of the airport hotels
And for the winner: Every single day we were there, it took us 1 hour to get into the heart of Paris, and 1h to get back to the hotel before midnight (or else bring on the night buses and weirdos – speaking from experience)
Pros
The décor of the hotel reception area was very attractive – warm, inviting & of a high quality.
The French guests were so polite and mannerly. Everything is “bonjour”, “bon soir” and “merci” – loved it!
There were approximately 3 restaurants on the ground floor at the reception area so when it came to food, you had options – which is always great!
The rooms were warm and comfortable.
And for the winner: The bus and train station were literally right outside of the hotel so all we had to do was walk a few metres into the train station, ensure that we found the right platform, and we were 1 hour away from our destination – direct. Easy Peasy!
After using those flight-hotel combos for Prague and Paris, I’m convinced that I won’t use this option again if I can help it though. I much preferred my stays in Amsterdam and Copenhagen where I made the conscious choice of where I most wanted to experience the accommodation.
So moving forward, I’ll be booking my flights and my accommodation separately so that I know exactly what I’m getting myself into, and I’m not faced with unexpected disappointment.
If you guys know where to find great flight-hotel deals please share! I haven’t cracked that code yet.
But if I could go back in time, these are the top 3 places which would be vying for top choice, and where I believe you should stay as well.
Budget – Hôtel Bellevue Paris Montmartre
Mid Range – Hôtel Abbatial Saint Germain or Le Clos Medicis
Luxury – Relais Christine Paris
THE PERFECT TRANSPORTATION
Let’s remember, this is not Copenhagen or Amsterdam where cyclists rule the streets.
As such, I won’t recommend renting a bike to explore the magnitude that is Paris.
However, their public transportation system ROCKS!
Thanks to my favourite GPS app, ‘Citymapper’, I found taking public transport in Paris so easy to use (I didn’t have to ask for help once!), it’s clean, and every once in a while you’ll find yourself serenaded by a musician of some sort.
Only thing to be aware of on public transport – the beggars! But nothing a little shake of the head or hand and a quiet ‘no’ can’t handle.
For my sister and I, when we arrived in late June 2019 via the Charles de Gaulle airport, we immediately got ourselves Paris Passes.
I suggest you do the same.
These Passes are THE BOMB!! Just as it says on the website, it allows you to experience Paris for LESS.
Imagine, thanks to our passes we got to skip the line at the LOUVRE!
Let me explain.
With these bad boys, you get free entry to over 60 of Paris’ best attractions such as the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre, Cruises along the River Seine, and more! You save so much time as well because you get to skip the ticket line at so many major locations.
PLUS, with these you get free, unlimited use of public transport inside central Paris. Not having to deal with topping up travel cards at kiosks like we did in Amsterdam, this was a golden perk! This was a definite bonus that added to our easy peasy travel experience getting around in Paris.
What’s great is that once you purchase you also have a whole year to activate it, AND all passes have a 30 day money-back guarantee attached, so you can confidently buy with peace of mind.
For Insight into Pass Prices click here.
For Insight Into Pass Paris Attractions click here.
In short, these passes were amazing; you won’t regret trying them for your future trip to Paris. We bought ours at the airport when we landed, but you can book your online in advance.
For all you need to know in order to make an informed decision, go here.
Key Notes (Or What I Wish I Knew Before Going):
Unless you’re okay with staying at “okay”, uninspiring, basic AF, or below average hotels, do not use the cheaper British Airways City Break Flight Deals – find your own accommodation that suits your own needs and preferences.
Boutique hotels are way better than budget chains – lesson learned.
RELATED READ: A Travel Diary: How To Spend 4 Wonderful Days in Amsterdam (Things To See & Do + Travel Tips)
WHERE TO GO
Day 1: Tour Eiffel ǀ Jardins du Trocadéro ǀ Palais de Chaillot ǀ Champ de Mars
1. The ‘Tour Eiffel’
Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
Yes, you read that right. One full day spent basking in the glory of the Eiffel Tower.
Of course, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. It is the most iconic landmark of Paris, and France as a whole.
Erected in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel for the World Exhibition, it is comprised of 12000 iron pieces. So, a visit to Paris is literally incomplete, (and a complete waste of time tbh, sorry not sorry), if you do not catch a view of the tower.
Better yet, catch the views FROM the tower – especially if this is your first Parisian experience! This is exactly what we did. The Eiffel Tower just has to be done. So we decided to start our 3 day excursion through Paris with a bang!
From the hotel, we took the train into central Paris, and from our stop all we needed was a 15 minute bus ride to the Tower. What an exciting day that was! My sister and I were both filled with so much excitement because it was a first time for both of us to fully immerse ourselves in the atmosphere at the Eiffel Tower.
During that extremely hot summer day, we boarded a packed bus, immediately engulfed in the sweat and heat of its occupants, and headed toward the Tower. The ride was slightly stuffy and uncomfortable, but strangely I loved it.
Living and feeling like a local is one of my most favourite things when I travel – I believe that that’s when you can truly have an authentic experience of a place that other tourists, foreigners and expats try to separate themselves from.
But not this girl.
I sat in the stuffy heat and discomfort, and kept my eyes glue toward the windows where my eyes danced at the sight of the hustle and bustle of Parisian life, and French monuments I had learned about and only seen once before in my life. …Until I caught my first glimpse of the Tower.
We were almost there!
Before long we had gotten to our bus stop, and as expected, we got off with more than half of the bus, and made our way toward the Tower, taking our first pictures with the Tower along the way.
You would think that it’s impossible to spend a whole day at the Eiffel Tower, but with the hordes of tourists there, it is a very very easy feat.
Funny enough, this glorious monument that millions flock to annually, was birthed out of competition. In the 1880s, a design competition was announced for an iron tower to be erected on the Champ-de-Mars, as an entrance to the 1889 World Exhibition to demonstrate France’s industrial fortitude to the world, and to honour the 100th year anniversary of the French Revolution. A staggering 107 projects were submitted, and Gustave Eiffel rose above the competition to win.
Digging for the Eiffel Tower began on January 28, 1887, and was not complete until March 31, 1889 (facts, baby!). The Parisians of the time didn’t like it though, and it was not even meant to be a permanent structure. But it stuck; and soon the iron lady became a symbol of the city of lights.
I also quickly learned that the Tower itself is such a majestic structure that taking pictures of it at all angles almost becomes an obsession that can last hours in itself.
Once satisfied with my photography, my sister and I, observed long lines of people booking tickets to go up the Tower. As complete novices, and firm advocates of the YOLO movement, we looked at each other and thought “why not?” The only problem was choosing which line to go into.
We had two options:
- Take the elevator
- Take the stairs
After not that much deliberation, we knew that the best option for us was booking the elevator and saving ourselves collapsing from heat, exhaustion, weak knees and unfit bodies if we attempted to walk up all those steps. Climbing the Christ Church in Copenhagen had given us enough bad memories and lessons learned.
But if you’re up for climbing the 1665 steps, you’ll be happy to know that the queue for the stairs is usually shorter than for the elevators, and the tickets are also slightly cheaper. You can see for yourself right here.
So once we chose our line, all we had to do was stand in it. And stand we did…for over an hour…in the heat.
But this is standard procedure – on its busiest days, lines for Eiffel Tower elevator tickets can last 2-3 hours! Lines for walking up the stairs is much shorter – go figure!
We were lucky to get tickets to be honest, because I’ve read of instances where tickets for the elevator can be sold out for over 6 weeks in advance.
Now I know that if I ever want to go up the Eiffel Tower again, the best thing to do to skip the long lines and fast track to the top would be to book tickets in advance on the official website.
Once we got our tickets, we had to stand and wait in another line in preparation for our turn up the next available elevator.
But truthfully, good things come to those who wait – at least when it comes to the Eiffel Tower. The waiting was worth it because the views from the 2nd floor and the top floor of the tower were breath-taking. Not a minute of waiting was regretted.
I personally could not believe what I was seeing. Just…wow!
There were scores of people on both floors, but we still managed to comfortably take photos of the views, of each other, to sip some champagne, and to even make new friends.
Most of all, we felt like we were on top of the world, living our best lives.
I believe we easily spent over 2 hours basking in the views from the 2nd and top floors.
Then, when our stomachs began to speak to us, we found ourselves back into another long, winding line just to exit. But eventually we made it back to the base of the Tower and maneuvered our exit in search of food.
2. Jardins du Trocadéro / Palais de Chaillot
Address: Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris, France
Heading back across the Seine, our curiosity led us to the Trocadéro Gardens. This expansive square that sits on the hill of the Palais de Chaillot, is the most ideal spot for photographing the Tower. This is especially true in the evening, when the city lights glitter, dance and dazzle in the background.
Somehow, our hunger evaporated. Having a brand new view of the Tower from a different distance and angle rejuvenated us.
This was also a tourist hotspot where there was hardly any walking space.
Our cameras battled with other cameras for specific views of the Tower, and we were heckled by hustlers trying to make a quick euro with their trinkets and merchandise souvenirs.
Thankfully, we succeeded in wading through the madness and eventually found ourselves dining at a local café.
The evening fell on us at this restaurant. As the light blue skies turned darker, we, filled with burgers, fries and crepes, made our way back to the Trocadéro Gardens because my sister was determined to have an Eiffel Tower experience at night.
I admit, I wasn’t exactly up for it because I felt already fulfilled with my day thus far. But when I saw the Tower illuminated in the distance that night, I finally understood her vision, and was living for it. It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced in my life.
That night we were so inspired, that we felt compelled to buy our very first berets – the finishing touch to our feeling like true Parisians.
3. Champ de Mars
Address: 2 Allée Adrienne Lecouvreur, 75007 Paris, France
In the end, we ended up at the Champ de Mars, the large green space just behind the Eiffel Tower, where we decided to join so many tourists and locals just sitting in the grass having drinks, wine and picnics, and listening to music, at night, all illuminated by the majestic lights of the Eiffel Tower. It was such a special, beautiful sight.
This was my sister’s favourite experience. Despite being bombarded every 5 minutes by hecklers selling wine, champagne and beers, we sat comfortably in the grass, took pictures and photos, and stared, mesmerized, at the brilliantly lit Tower.
She literally did not want to leave – AT ALL. Give her a chance and we would have spent the night there, going back home at dawn the next day.
As a result, we ended up heading back home after the train lines stopped, sometime around midnight, and had to navigate our way to the hotel via 2 night buses and a coach.
Safe to say, instead of 1 hour, it took us more like 3h to get back to the hotel. But again, Citymapper came to the rescue and saved us yet again!
Not fun. But definitely something we can tell the kids and grandkids about!
We got home after 2am and immediately collapsed into bed – exhausted by the brilliance of the day.
This is what you’d do as well.
FUN FACT: Did you know that when the Eiffel Tower is lit up in sparkles for the first five minutes of every hour? When you’re there check your watch so you don’t miss the next one!
Key Notes (Or What I Wish I Knew Before Going)
You cannot be in a rush when you visit the Tower. It must be fully experienced.
If you wish to go up the Tower, be prepared to wait in line for Eiffel Tower tickets for at least 1 hour. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes and shoes. Have water and light snacks whilst you wait.
Or, pre-book Eiffel Tower tickets online to skip the lines
Be mindful of the hustlers at the Eiffel Tower selling wine, drinks, Parisian trinkets and other merchandise – they can seem quite scary for the first time visitor but are virtually harmless. Just know that they tend to heckle or can be quite abrasive or “in your face” if they want to get your attention.
RELATED READ: A Travel Diary: How To Spend 2 Action-Packed Days In Prague (The Perfect Bucket-list Weekend Itinerary + Travel Tips)
Day 2: Day Trip to the Château de Versailles ǀ Top Attraction City Tour (Notre Dame, Arc du Triomphe, Champs Élysées)
4. Château de Versailles
Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
On Day 2 we did so much! More than I anticipated.
First order of the day was a day trip to the Palace of Versailles.
This was a MUST-SEE for a history buff like me. I had studied French and the French Revolution in high school and read so much about this place that I always visualized myself going there. So when the opportunity came I knew backing down was not an option.
This magnificent palace was the hub of French government and political power, and home to French royalty, including Marie Antoinette, Napoleon and King Louis XIV. In 1682, King Louis XIV moved the Royal Court from the Louvre to the Château de Versailles, and this remained the seat of government for over 100 years, ending with the French Revolution in 1789. Today, it is an expansive museum dedicated to the history of France.
From our hotel, it took us approximately 1.5 hour and two trains to get to Versailles.
From downtown Paris, we hopped on an RER C train and headed toward the Gare de Versailles Château – Rive Gauche train station. Within 45 mins we were there. From the station, the Palace was an easy 10 minute walk in a straight line. Once there, we used our Museum Pass (a part of our Paris Passes) to gain easy entry.
Note, normally the Palace is closed on Mondays, but is open from 9am – 5.30pm every day after that. The gardens and the park are open daily and free to visit from 8am – 6pm. However, the Estate of Trianon and the Coach Gallery only open in the afternoons, from 12pm.
Quite shamefully, we got there after midday so we didn’t give ourselves enough time to comfortably see the length and breadth of the entire estate, with time to spare. So, we had to be very strategic about what we saw and where we went.
So with our audio guides in hand, this is what we did:
- The Hall of Mirrors
- The King’s State Apartment
- The Royal Chapel
- The Royal Opera
- Queen’s Apartment
- The Dauphin and the Dauphine’s Apartments
- Countless rooms filled with historic 17th century art – from ceiling to floor
The one thing we missed out on was seeing the garden (we missed the highlight – can you believe it?!) because a performance later that evening forced it to close earlier than usual – we were still touring the inner rooms when they closed.
Ugh…I was so disappointed that my tour of the Chateau couldn’t end on the highlight of this place, but it only means that another return is due. Not just to see the monumental garden grounds which began in 1661 under the command of gardener, André Le Nôtre (and took approximately 40 years to complete, even with thousands of men playing a part in the completion of this immense project of the time), but to also explore the “off-sight highlights” as well, such as the Queen’s Hamlet, Marie Antoinette’s Estate, and the Trianon Estate, which take a bit of a trek to get to.
My advice would be to get to the Château early and spend at least a full half day (or more if possible) there, because there is so much to see and so much history to learn! You’ll want to go slow in order to take it all in.
This palace is the largest royal domain in the world, however. As such, in reality it may be virtually impossible to see absolutely everything in one visit. The gardens alone are 230 acres! It’s no wonder that it’s been listed as a World Heritage Site for 30+ years and is hailed as one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art.
Truly, visiting the Château was a HUGE dream come true.
FUN FACT: Did you know that besides being called Louis the Great, King Louis XIV was known as the Sun King? This was a nickname that he adopted because he chose the sun as his personal symbol / emblem – he believed himself a direct representative of God, and this gave him the divine right to boldly wield his absolute powers over the French monarchy.
Top Attraction City Tour (Notre-Dame, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees)
With the Palace’s early close, we still had the rest of the evening to enjoy.
5. Cathédrale Notre-Dame
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Once we arrived back into the City, we had our very own DIY walking tour. Using Citymapper, we found our way to the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
This is Paris’ most famous symbol of religion. Built in 1345, this towering structure took almost 200 years to build. More than the Eiffel Tower, this 12th century classic gothic Catholic Church is the most visited site in Paris. This Cathedral, which means “Our Lady of Paris”, is a wonder from all angles with its beautiful architecture, stained-glass windows, and gargoyles guarding the structure from its rooftop.
Unfortunately we couldn’t enter or get too close to it due to the fire which occurred on April 15th 2019. Usually, however, as I remember from my first trip to Paris a decade ago, you gain free entry into the Cathedral. Just don’t forget that the lines can be long and you do have to go through security before you enter. A cost is attached if you wish to go up the 390 steps to the South Tower or into the crypt.
The fire has caused the Cathedral to be closed for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless, these boundaries did not prevent us from enjoying the Cathedral from afar, and its surroundings.
The beautifully blue sky, the creativity of the street artists, always eager to ask you if you want to be drawn, the width, cleanliness and splendour of the bridges, the magnificence of watching boat tours go by on the water, the architectural intricacy of the church – there was just SO MUCH to take in and enjoy that in that moment it felt more appropriate to be enjoying the outdoor activity of the streets than to be viewing the insides of the church, lest we miss out on anything.
FUN FACT: Did you know that the Cathedral is located on one of Paris’ two remaining natural islands, called Île de la Cité?
The top highlights were watching tons of local Parisians, in friendship groups, sitting at the river’s edge, having picnics, having drinks, and just enjoying each other’s company. No one was rushing. There was such a sense of peace, calm and stillness among them. Unlike their North American counterparts who find it impossible to be anything but busy, these Parisians taught me the loveliness of mindfulness and living comfortably in the present moment. It was so beautiful.
Secondly, we stumbled upon this guy playing the piano in the middle of the street on one of the local bridges, just as the sun was setting. In this moment, I truly felt that Paris was the city of love.
6. Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile
Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
Soon, our trail eventually led us to the Arc de Triomphe, via public transport.
This architectural monument, one of the most famous in Paris, was built in memory of the fallen who died during the French Revolution of the late 1700s and Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s.
King Louis Philippe inaugurated this monument in 1836 and dedicated it to the armies of the Revolution and the Empire. Buried at the base of the arch, where a flame of remembrance burns in honour, is the body of the “Unknown Soldier”.
It is such an inspirational sight, but our expectations of taking amazing pictures with this monument, and eventually climbing to its zenith were futile.
This is because at the very time we chose to visit, the Algerians had taken over the entire length and breadth of the Champs Élysées as they had just won a huge final football match against Senegal, and were crowned champions of the Africa Cup of Nations. And boy were they celebrating in the streets!
As such, we didn’t get the amazing views we desired. But it was so cool to witness the ways in which the Algerians celebrated their success and to be a part of that.
We couldn’t go near to the Arc due to the mob of celebrators that separated us from getting near, but on a normal, unobstructed day, we would have climbed the 40 stairs and ventured to the top with our Paris Museum Pass for a breath-taking view of the crisscrossing roads beneath us, the shoppers walking along the Champs Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the city in general.
FUN FACT: Did you know that the Arc is at the centre of one of the world’s largest roundabouts where 12 avenues are knitted together? This is why they call it l’Étoile (meaning “star”, to represent the juncture formed by the 12 avenues which radiate around this structure.
7. The Champs Élysées
Instead, we turned in the opposite direction and decided to have a calm, cool leisurely walk down the Champs Élysées.
Paris’ most famous shopping street and one of its most beautiful avenues is lined on both sides with restaurants, shops, boutiques, nightclubs, and theatres. We admired all of the designer shops – my sister’s favourite thing. We were spectators to the roadblock the Algerians made in the streets and the way they took over with their shouts, stomps, honking, screams, singing, and dancing.
FUN FACT: Did you know that the Champs Élysées draws a perfectly straight line from the Arc du Triomphe to the Louvre?
We didn’t (read: couldn’t) spend more than an hour there before it was time to head home in order to get the last train (we learned our lesson from Day 1!).
We managed to get back in time for a quick dinner at one of the hotel restaurants, and then to bed we went, needing to be fresh for our last day in the city.
Key Notes (Or What I Wish I Knew Before Going)
Go to the Château early in the morning so that you can not only avoid lines, and enjoy without time constraints, but fully experience the surroundings without feeling like time is flying, because this place is HUGE!
Ensure that you buy the right tickets for the Château that include all the attractions you wish to see – different tickets = different tours.
If you know that seeing the Gardens is important to you, go there first before heading into the Château, or make sure you leave enough time after your Château tour to explore its outdoor surroundings or make sure that the day you go there are no evening performances that cause the gardens to close early
Before you go to any major tourist attractions, make sure the coast is clear of parades or celebratory national events (unless you wish to be a part of it of course!)
RELATED READ: A Travel Diary: How To Spend 4 Enchanting Days In Copenhagen (What To See, Eat & Do)
Day 3: Seine River CruiseǀThe Louvre
8. The River Seine
On our last day, we enjoyed a Seine River boat cruise which we had booked for FREE with our Paris Pass at the airport.
Loaded up with breakfast cakes and fruit juices from the hotel café in our bags, we made our 1 hour journey back into the City.
Located next to the Eiffel Tower you’ll find a boardwalk littered with waterfront eateries. It is also the docking area for boat tours along the River Seine. Cruises along this 777 km-long river are a HUGELY popular tourist attraction, and there are many boat operators cruising back and forth along the Seine every day.
This is where we had to go in order to catch our Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise that would take us along a guided tour of Paris at sea.
Again, we truly underestimated the popularity of these tours. We ended up in the 3rd lane of the ticket-holders line, and had to patiently wait as we all scanned our tickets and shuffled onto the boat one by one.
All I was hoping and praying for was a great seat with unobstructed views of the attractions surrounding me so that I could make my camera reel happy.
And thankfully, this is what I got.
On the one hour boat tour, we sat comfortably, relaxed, took in the warm sea breeze, and listened intently to the automated tour guide. From the water we saw so many waterfront highlights, from the Eiffel Tower all the way to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The scenery before us was spectacular.
Seeing Paris from the water is such a cool, calming, unforgettable experience.
Make sure to add it to your Paris bucketlist!
9. The Louvre
Address: Musée du Louvre, 75001 Paris, France
After our hour-long excursion, we docked back at the Tower and made a literal beeline for the Louvre.
If you can only visit one of the museums in Paris, the Louvre is it! Thanks to our Paris Museum Pass, we skipped the line and entered the Louvre glass pyramid, designed by Chinese-American architect, I.M. Pei in the 1980s, and descended into the museum within 5 minutes, including security check.
Once we entered into the massive building, a map was a must in order to be able to navigate our surroundings. Not only was the Louvre crowded, but the sheer size of this museum is grandiose – you would not even know where to begin.
This is the world’s largest art museum. Once home to French Royalty, including King Louis XIV, it was converted into a museum in the 18th century during the French Revolution.
This is home to a vast and incredible collection of world-famous art (460,000 pieces), including Michelangelo’s Dying Slave, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. You can spend days here (3 for the least), lost in a world of ancient to 19th century art. We (read: I) wished we had the time to see it all, take it all in, and truly soak in this incredible place, but due to our pending flight back, we indefinitely postponed exploration of any of the other paintings, statues and sculptures.
All my sister and I cared to see was Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa!
Luckily, in addition to seeing the Mona Lisa in a room of its own, with perhaps 50 other people and guarded by security, we also got the chance to view rooms that held art belonging to the Americas, the Orient, Africa and other parts of the globe.
Talk about entering a time portal!
I love museums like that!
Yes, Paris is overflowing with a multitude of marvellous museums, such as the Musée d’Orsay, the Centre Pompidou and Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais. However, if you had to see any museum, please choose the Louvre.
It never disappoints.
FUN FACT: Did you know that before it became a museum, The Louvre used to be a palace and a defensive fortress? Built by King Philippe August II, shortly after 1190, his intention was to use the Louvre as a fortress. However, by the 14th century it became the Palais du Louvre – a royal residence, home to French monarchs for approximately 300 years. Once the Royals moved to Versailles in 1678, they lost interest in the Louvre. As such, the Louvre officially opened its doors to the public as a museum and now home to the artwork and legacies of past generations and civilizations, on August 10, 1793.
Key Notes (Or What I Wish I Knew Before Going)
If you care about unobstructed, close-up seats, arrive approximately 20-30 minutes before a boat tour along the Seine, especially on busy days, in order to avoid being at the back of the line and not being able to get a good seat at the front of the boat.
Book a guided tour though the Louvre to see all noteworthy highlights.
Skip the line tickets for all major Parisian top attractions are worth it for saving time.
But in Paris, 3 days is NOTHIN’!
Paris is so huge you need a proper month in order to have a quality stay. In Paris, it’s impossible to see everything because the city is just so big and its attractions are in the hundreds. There were so many highlights I wished to see and experience but there was just no time because each attraction in itself is a day trip, and I’m the type of girl who loves to fully immerse herself.
I don’t skim surfaces. I dive to the depths.
As such, Paris will see me again. For a longer time. In a better location. And when I do return, I’ve already calculated my itinerary…
FUTURE SIGHTS
Paris Walking Tour
Picasso Museum
Sacre Coeur
Sainte Chappelle
Jardin du Luxembourg
Jardin des Tuileries
Montemartre
The Catacombs – the labyrinth of tunnels lined with human bones. In the 1700s, cemeteries around Paris were cleared and the bones were moved to these underground tunnels. This is now the final resting place of over 6 mil Parisians.
In Conclusion
Truly, I just love the French. All things French. Especially since I studied the language for 7 years at secondary school, and 1 year at University. This is the one language I vow to speak fluently one day; and there’s no greater city to practice than in Paris.
It is a wealth of rich history, delicious cuisine, exquisite architecture, patriotism, monuments and museums, street markets and cafés, pastry shops and picnics. This is one city you have no choice but to return to again and again, discovering new and hidden gems along the way. Here you can NEVER grow bored. Instead, you’d wish you could stay longer – regardless of how long you’re there for.
See you again soon Paris!
Most definitely I’ll be back!
“There are only two places in the world where we can live happy: at home and in Paris” – Ernest Hemingway
OVER TO YOU…….
Is Paris on your bucketlist?
Have you been before?
What would an awesome stay in the City of Lights look like to you?
I’d love to know! Tell me all about your Parisian travel aspirations or experiences in the comments!
[If you made it to the end of this, YOU ARE AMAZING! Thank you so much for reading!]
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