Paris is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. And despite the ever increasing crowds, the military / police presence, and the security extremes, this beautiful city still holds a place dear to my heart. If you are planning a trip and want to avoid massive crowds, consider visiting during winter where you can enjoy the festivities around Christmas celebrations.
As Audrey Hepburn once said, “Paris is always a good idea”. A week is easily filled with amazing experiences in the romantic city of lights. However, recent events have placed Parisians on edge and the overall atmosphere has definitely changed over the last decade. Despite this, there are still so many great reasons to visit Paris. Here are a few of my favourites:
1. Food
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” -George Bernard.
Food, glorious French food! Baguettes, crêpes, canard a l’orange, escargots, fois gras, to name a few. You must explore the French patisseries where you will no doubt feel the need for a sweet treat while out exploring the streets of Paris. Crêpes Suzette, abricots amandes, crème brûlée or éclairs… which to try when you want them all? Grab a selection of petit desserts!
Bistro Chez France is a cosy, locally owned restaurant offering traditional French cuisine. Highly recommend you book in advance as it is quite popular in the 7th arrondissement (district).
2. Market streets
Rue Cler
This is my favourite market street in Paris. Visit Rue Cler for an assortment of baked delights, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, cheese, wine and flowers. Enjoy a freshly made crêpe, cold pressed jus d’orange or a café latte before heading off to explore the city.
3. Art & Architecture
“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” – Aristotle
Louvre
With great ease, you can spend a day or two wandering through the Louvre Museum and its grounds. While not essential, knowing a little Français can be useful. Yes, you will see the Mona Lisa, and quite probably be amused at the 50+ people crammed in the viewing area taking selfies. There is so much beautiful art, so don’t forget to put your camera down and enjoy it. Definitely a must for art lovers!
Eiffel Tower
In a city of love and lights, it’s hard not to accidentally photograph this iconic piece of architecture! Just stroll through Champ de Mars. The Eiffel Tower is an essential addition to your holiday photos. Interesting to learn that this famous piece of ironwork was doomed for demolition 20 years post-construction. To save the tower, Gustave Eiffel stated “It will be for everyone an observatory and a laboratory the likes of which has never before been available to science.” So from 1889, the Eiffel Tower was given scientific purpose and alas, saved! And of course, there’s an intense joy sitting in the park or walking along the River Seine, enjoying the nightly glittering light show.
Palace of Versailles
An excessively opulent château. Versailles is usually busy, so arriving earlier is better. Deviate from the main path towards hallways devoid of tourists. Be sure to grab some fresh air and explore the surrounding gardens. At times we were lucky enough to have various sections of the palace grounds to ourselves, including the Grand Trianon Palace. The benefits of getting lost while meandering through the labyrinth-style Groves and surrounding fountains, statues and vases came with photographic advantages. King Louis XIV certainly had style!
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
A cute baroque-style Château in countryside Maincy! Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is located less than an hour south of Paris (just a short train + bus ride away!). Again, if you prefer less crowds, arrive early. Equine lovers will enjoy the Château’s carriage museum. The interior decor is delightfully classical and the formal gardens (jardin à la française) surrounding the estate are great to wander through. Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte served as inspiration for Versailles and this is clearly evident in the magnificent architecture.
If visiting during the Christmas period, you will be treated with festively decorated rooms. Vaux-le-Vicomte is perfectly romantic for couples, great day out for families and wonderful for those solo travellers wishing to release their inner child. Well worth a visit if you have time to explore beyond Paris.
If you have to make a choice between Versailles and this chateau then we strongly recommend Vaux-le-Vicomte.
Panthéon
Wander through the Latin quarter of Paris and you will likely stumble across the this brilliant piece of architecture. The Panthéon itself is a work of art and science… loved seeing Foucault’s pendulum which tracks the Earth’s rotation. Science is awesome! And if you’re interested in the science, check out the physics + maths behind this awesomeness.
Or just enjoy the Fibonacci spiral as you descend into the crypt.
4. City walks
“A walk about Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and in the point of Life.” –Thomas Jefferson.
Paris is a wonderfully walkable city. Below are some places to add to your list.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Pack a picnic and head to the Jardin du Luxembourg. Symmetry, geometry, ponds and statues characterise this grand space of goodness. Palais de Luxembourg, Musée de Luxembourg and de l’Orangerie surround the gardens, making it a perfect spot to begin a day of exploration.
River Seine
The Seine River spans several kilometres across the arrondissements of Paris and beyond… “Paris is the only city where you can step out of a railway station —and see, the Seine with its bridges and bookstalls, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Tuileries Gardens, the Place de la Concorde, the beginning of the Champs Élysées—what other city offers as much as you leave a train?” -Margaret Anderso
Conciergerie and Palais de Justice de Paris
Enchanting architecture at the Conciergerie and Palais de Justice de Paris. This was once a prison that housed Marie Antoinette! Strategically placed along the River Seine?
François Mitterrand Quay
Located near the Louvre, François Mitterrand Quay provides yet another perfect backdrop to the River Seine. “Le destin de la seine est-il d’arroser paris ou bien d’aller à l’océan”. -François Mitterand
Artisans
Local artists show off their creative talents along the sidewalks of the Seine. Practice your French – Parisians are generally friendlier if you make the effort to converse in their lingo.
Champs Élysées
The most famous shopping avenue is always a treat for fashionistas and dreamers. If you love fragrances, be sure to visit Guerlain House. The displays are exquisite and the team are amazing!
This is by no means a comprehensive list, rather a simple gathering of highlights enjoyed during winter. What do you love most about Paris?
