Paris, the city of lights and the city of love; it is truly the city that has been romanticised by movies, magazines and even postcards. Now, some tourists might have the hankering to do something a little out of the box when they visit a foreign country instead of the typical visited sights and activities, but let me be honest, Paris is one those cities where you will just have to swallow your “I am not like the others” pride, and do as the tourists do. Here are my recommendations on what you can do whilst in Paris:
- Tour Eiffel
A classic and a must while in Paris; it is not necessarily filled with activities, but more toward the history and doubts that was looming around it whilst in the process of building. It is crucial that while you’re that you o go up the tower because that’s the only way you can experience the accomplishment that Gustave Eiffel (the architect of the Eiffel Tower) must have felt when he finished the building despite all of the doubts and criticisms of the tower’s design.
However, keep in mind that once you are atop, you may feel that there is something missing from Paris’ view, which is the Tour Eiffel (since you’re technically on it looking outward into the city).
- Arc de Triomphe
The structure was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his victories. The Arc de Triomphe is inscribed with the names of the generals that lead the French troops during Napoleon’s reign. The arch has an observation deck that overlooks La Defense, Champs-Elysées and the Sacra-Coeur. Since there isn’t an elevator, be ready to climb 234 steps to enjoy the view.
- Palais Garnier
An opera house tied to the most famous character in musical history, “The Phantom of the Opera.” The opera inspired the Phantom as a character, as well as the chandelier that famously drops from the ceiling, the grand staircases and also the secret spots that includes the flooded basement. Truly a breathtaking structure that incorporated the classicism of Renaissance architecture with the delicate and detailed Beaux Arts ideas.
Also, within the vicinity of the Palais Garner is Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, a department store (goodbye money) that has a beautiful iconic glass and steel dome, with Art Nouveau staircases.
- The Louvre
The Lourve Museum holds the record for world’s largest museum, and is also a historic monument of Paris. The collection is organised into eight curatorial departments that include Egyptian Antiquities, Near Eastern Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan and Roman Antiquities; Islamic Art; Sculpture; Decorative Arts; Painting; Prints and Drawings.
Another iconic feature are modern Lourve-Pyramid structure that is made of glass and metal, and is surrounded by three smaller pyramids in the main courtyard of the Louvre Palace. The pyramid structure (completed in 1989) adds a modern and contemporary flair to the very traditional Museum.
- Notre Dame
The Cathedral of Notre Dame (meaning our lady) is infamous for its association with the tale of the Hunchback of Notre Dame. The cathedral has a breathtaking French Gothic structure. Its construction began in the 12th century and only came to a proper end 300 years later. The Notre Dam Cathedral Paris has suffered through amicable damages, especially through the French Revolution. However, the structure was reconstructed and is still being admired by many today.
Fun fact: Joan of Arc was famously blessed by Pope Pius X at this cathedral after claiming and convincing the people of her visions were from God, and that she used them to benefit and assist the French against the English soldiers.
- Cimetière du Père Lachaise
What do you get when you combine a Parisian park and a cemetery into one? The Père Lachaise, of course. While nobody knows exactly how many people are buried here (estimates between 300,000 to 1,000,000 people), there is something fascinating about this burial sight. Granted, a bit of an odd attraction to mention, however this place is worthy of a visit as some of the most famous figures around the world are buried within the grounds of the cemetery. Notable stars include: Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Proust, and many more.
- Champs-Elysées
The Champs-Elysées Avenue is as iconic as it is unavoidable, when you think about Paris’ exclusive shopping you think, Champ-Elysées. This Avenue is the city’s centre, leading to the Arc de Triomphe to the place de la Concorde. Household brands such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Chanel to name a few. But don’t worry, you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune when you’re there because affordable brands like (HNM, Marks and Spencer, ZARA, etc) are also located on the avenue. So the next time someone asks you where you got your top from, you can smugly say it was from “Champs-Elysèees”
Hopefully this post will give you some ideas on where you should go when you find yourself in the city of lights. I also recommend exploring Montmartre, which is where the Moulin Rouge is located at (I have a soft spot for the can-can dancers) if you are looking for more of an adult activity to fill your time with.
