Every year millions of tourists from around the world travel to Paris to experience all the city has to offer. Naturally, the must-see attractions are a no brainer: Climb the Eiffel Tower, examine the Mona Lisa in Musee du Louvre and visit Notre Dame and Arc de Triomphe.
But for me, Paris is all about slowing down and taking the time to soak up my favourite things: the romance, art, fashion, food and champagne. With this in mind, here are my top picks when visiting Paris:
1. Pont des Arts
Ahhh Paris, the city of love! If you’re travelling as a couple, you no doubt have a number of romantic hotspots to visit on your list but my personal favourite is the Pont des Art.This pedestrian bridge over the Seine is covered in hundreds of ‘love padlocks’ left by couples to signify their love and commitment to one another.
Here’s what you do: buy a lock and engrave it with your initials, lock it onto the bridge and throw the key in the Seine. C’est très romantique!
| Warning: Police are cracking down on tourists throwing their keys in the river so it might be better to dispose of it elsewhere and just pretend you threw it in the Seine. 🙂 |
2. Patisseries
You don’t need to spend a fortune to taste some of the best gastronomic delights the city has to offer. A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the world finest macarons, croissants and sugary treats. Visit Pierre Hermé for exquisite rose croissants and the BEST vanilla tarts! Sample dainty orange blossom and pistachio macarons at Ladurée or have a full-blown, decedent indulgence with a gold-dusted chocolate éclair and glass of champagne at Cafe Pouchkine (the perfect rest stop when shopping in Printemps.)
3. Musée de l’Orangerie
Whether you know your cubism from your abstract expressionism or not, a visit to Musée de l’Orangerie is something everyone can appreciate. This beautiful gallery within the Tuileries Gardens has a magnificent collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. The real highlight however, is Claude Monet’s ‘Water Lilies.’ Displayed in two oval rooms flooded with natural light, immerse yourself in the tranquillity and beauty of his most famous works – just as Monet envisioned.
4. Le Marais
Parisienne women are known for their style and shopping in Paris is a must. The Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Pintemps and Galeries Lafayette are great starting points, but if you’re a true shopaholic looking to seriously splurge, don your Repetto ballet flats and discover Le Marais. As you wander the lanes and alleys of this lively district, you’ll find a delightful mix of affordable vintage stores, home-wares and local labels including ACP, The Kooples, Zadig & Voltaire and more!
5. Champagne
When visiting Paris, it’s worth allowing an extra day and taking a trip out to Champagne. The TGV will get you to Reims in around 45 minutes and Epernay is not much further.
Hear how Champagne was discovered and learn about the strict appellation laws, the carbonation process, different sugar levels used and taste some of the best champagne on offer!
Most of the big champagne houses run public tours and tastings. Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot offer fabulous tours that run frequently.
For a more intimate tour that will take you through some of the most impressive chalk cellars in the region, my top pick is Ruinart.
| Hot tip: Tours fill up quickly so book early to avoid disappointment! |
Getting around Paris is easy, no matter what arrondissement you stay in so save some cash and book a red hot special.
What would you most like to get up to on a trip to Paris?