What’s black and white and red all over? Me, in Paris. Everyone that has been to Paris, carries with them a story. Mine includes love, heartbreak, and so many croissants. Paris has been described as romantic, fashionable, artistic, dreamy, glamorous… the list could go on. If I had to use one word to describe Paris it would be: magical.
I did not necessarily discover the magic my first go around in Paris. However, upon returning to the city of love, the magic of the city captured me against my will. I left Paris a new woman. I believe if you allow Paris to consume you, you too may return home a modified version of yourself. Keep reading for my list of highlights in Paris.
Picnic Under the Eiffel Tower
I mean, does anyone not dream of having a picnic under the Eiffel Tower? Surprisingly enough, this is actually a common activity for locals to participate in {and much less so tourists}. I picnicked under the Eiffel Tower multiple times during my visits to Paris {baguette, wine, and cheese always present of course}. I got seriously lucky with my weather and was able to enjoy blue skies and sunshine for the majority of my trip. Sharing laughs and appetizers under the iconic structure still remain my fondest memories in the city of love.
Get a Gargoyles View
Personally, I found the best view of Paris to be atop Notre Dame. Some will argue that the top of the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe take this title, but I suppose it’s all about personal preference. One of my favorite Disney movies growing up {for those that don’t know I am as much a Disney movie enthusiast as I am a travel enthusiast} was the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Okay, I’m not going to lie to you, I just hit play on Spotify to ‘Out There’ by Tom Hulce {is it not the best Disney song, other than the Tarzan soundtrack???}. I am getting off track {while listening to the best track}. You can read about visiting Notre Dame, here.
Coffee, Coffee, Coffee
One of my favorite past times in any European city includes having a cuppa. That being said, there is something particularly special about doing so in Paris. There is an art to it. An elegance and ease, of which comes naturally to the average Parisian. Unfortunately, I don’t think I will ever master it {coffee has a very intense effect on me since I only drink it occasionally, I become the energizer bunny — not very elegant}. That being said, I will never get tired of ‘people watching’ over a cuppa in Paris. It’s the easiest way to kill a couple hours outdoors on a balmy Spring afternoon.
Relax in Jardin du Luxembourg
If you have a free afternoon over the course of your visit, I highly suggest allocating that time to Jardin du Luxembourg. I definitely felt the most ‘French’ during this portion of my visit to Paris. Located within walking distance of Notre Dame, it’s the perfect way to unwind and nibble on a pastry or twelve. You will find this is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, however it never felt over-crowded. The garden is open to the public {for free} all year round, though the hours are dependent on the season. Should you desire a guided tour, this company provides them daily, free of charge {but always, always tip!}.
Eat ALL the Croissants
Seriously, don’t miss out on these flaky bites of pure magic. I still have regrets that I didn’t consume enough of them…
Discover the Darker Side of Paris
I was in a darker place during my second visit to Paris, so it was only fitting to explore the less-romantic aspects of the the city of love. One of the activities on my list included heading underground to the infamous Catacombs. I must admit, this was another ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’ inspired activity, but nonetheless it deserves a visit if you want a unique Parisian experience.
The Catacombs open at 10:00 AM and are open from Tuesday to Sunday. My one piece of advice: GET THERE EARLY. Sarah and I arrived well before opening hours and we still waiting for nearly two hours. They have warnings on the website that the wait time is nearly four hours during the busy season. They can only allow 200 guests underground at a time, and since it is not a guided tour, your entrance time will depend on the flow of traffic. But guys, it’s so worth it. Even now, I would wait for the entire two hours again.
Visit Château de Versailles
After witnessing the Palace of Versailles, I now believe no trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the estate. As they say, a photo tells a thousand words. Therefore, you can find a full photo diary of the Versailles Estate here. And can read all about how to prepare for a visit here.
Witness Paris at Night
…because what could be more romantic? Watching the sunset over any location in Paris will most likely {read: absolutely} take your breath away. Watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle against a black sky, holding hands as you walk along the Seine River, sipping wine on a terrace during a warm summer night. This is why we come to Paris. 
Be a Tourist
It’s okay to admit that you enjoy participating in some of the more ‘touristy’ aspects of Paris. If you’re going to be a tourist anywhere, Paris is a decent choice. The tourist attractions are that spectacular that it makes the crowds and the queues worth it. Plus, attempting to pull off the Parisian style is always an excellent challenge. So, go see the Louvre, witness the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, practice the three words in French that you’ve nailed, wear red lipstick and oversized sun glasses, and don’t be sorry about any of it. For the most Instagrammable locations in Paris, click here.
And don’t forget, Paris is always a good idea.
