Paris Avec Moi // Sights
Bonjour, mes amis! As an honorary French poodle, I've sniffed out the best things to do and see for a first time trip to Paris. From picnicking on the Seine to dodging the crowds at the Louvre, I've got you covered. So, grab your baguette and let's dive in!
FIRST-TIME VISITORS
If you're a first-timer to the City of Light, you simply must visit the Eiffel Tower. It's like the Mona Lisa of Parisian landmarks - iconic, a little overrated, yet absolutely essential. For a more off-beat experience, head to Montmartre and let the bohemian vibes take you away. You'll find street artists, a vibrant nightlife, and a breathtaking view of the city. If you’re feeling lovey-dovey, head to the Pont des Arts bridge and attach a lock to symbolize your eternal love (or at least until the city removes it for safety reasons).
ART AFICIONADOS
The Musée du Louvre is the obvious choice, but let's face it - you'll probably spend more time waiting in line than actually admiring the artwork. Instead, head to the Musée d'Orsay for an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings. My personal favorite is Musée Rodin, a gorgeous estate dedicated to the works of the famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin and is located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. The museum is housed in the beautiful 18th-century Hôtel Biron, which was once the home of the sculptor. The museum's collection includes many of Rodin's most famous works, including The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Gates of Hell. Visitors can also explore the museum's beautiful gardens, which are home to many of Rodin's sculptures as well as other beautiful works of art.
GARDENS
Paris is known as the City of Light, but it could easily be called the City of Gardens. The city is dotted with beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for strolling, picnicking, or just relaxing with a book. Here are some of the best green spaces to visit in Paris. Take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries or the Luxembourg Gardens for a picture-perfect moment. Or, head outside the city limits to Giverney, home to the Impressionist master Monet.
FOODIES
Ah, the French cuisine. It's like a love affair for your taste buds. Each street has a picture perfect cafe or boulangerie so it would be too much to go through for a small section. The best advice I can give is to stay clear of restaurants on touristy streets and opt for neighborhood spots. For a truly authentic experience, head to a local market and stock up on fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine for a picnic on the Seine.
SHOPPING IS ART
Rue du Commerce is a hidden gem for locals, with plenty of boutiques and specialty shops to peruse. For a more upscale experience, head to Avenue Montaigne for haute-couture designers like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. And if you're on a budget, check out La Vallée Village outlet just outside the city. You can snag some designer deals without breaking the bank. I have a whole post on Paris Shopping if you want more!
So there you have it, mes amis. A guide to a few of the best things to do and see in Paris. Remember, the key to enjoying the City of Light is to embrace the je ne sais quoi and let it whisk you away on a magical journey.