The moment my feet touched the ground at Charles de Gaulle Airport, I felt it—that indefinable electricity that Paris carries in its very air. It was early morning, and the soft golden light filtering through the terminal windows seemed to whisper promises of adventures yet to unfold. As I made my way through the airport’s exit, my heart drummed with the anticipation that only arrives when you’re about to meet a city you’ve dreamed about for years. Paris wasn’t just a destination; it was a conversation I’d been waiting to have with history, art, and my own wandering soul.
Day 1: The Grand Introduction
The Eiffel Tower
My first stop had to be the Iron Lady herself. Standing at the Trocadéro Gardens, I watched as the Eiffel Tower rose against the morning sky like a magnificent iron lacework reaching toward heaven. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, this 330-meter marvel was initially meant to be temporary—imagine Paris without it now! I spent hours simply sitting on the grass of the Champ de Mars, watching how the light transformed the tower’s appearance throughout the day. As sunset approached, I witnessed that magical moment when 20,000 light bulbs brought her to life, sparkling for five minutes at the top of each hour after dark. The crowd around me fell silent, and in that moment, we were all united in pure wonder.
Seine River Cruise
As twilight deepened, I found myself boarding a bateau-mouche for an evening cruise along the Seine. The river, which stretches 777 kilometers across France, has been Paris’s lifeline since ancient times. From the water, the city revealed itself differently—bridges became frames for perfect pictures, and the illuminated monuments seemed to float like golden islands in the darkness. The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the soft commentary about each passing landmark, created a dreamlike introduction to the city’s geography and soul.
Local Cuisine Experience
That evening, I discovered my first authentic Parisian bistro tucked away on a quiet street near Saint-Germain. The escargots arrived first, swimming in garlic butter that made my skepticism melt away with the first taste. Following that, I savored boeuf bourguignon that had been simmering for hours, the meat so tender it fell apart at the touch of my fork. The wine, a modest Bordeaux recommended by the waiter, transformed the meal into a symphony of flavors that seemed to capture centuries of French culinary wisdom in every bite.
Day 2: Art and Soul
The Louvre Museum
I arrived at the Louvre before dawn, watching the sunrise reflect off I.M. Pei’s glass pyramid—a modern addition from 1989 that somehow perfectly complements the former royal palace. Inside, beyond the crowds surrounding the Mona Lisa, I found myself lost in the endless galleries. The Louvre houses over 35,000 works of art, and I barely scratched the surface in my six hours there. The Winged Victory of Samothrace stopped me in my tracks; standing before her, I felt the wind that her marble dress seems to catch, frozen in time for over 2,000 years. Did you know that during World War II, the museum staff evacuated and hid most of the collection, leaving empty frames as silent protests against the occupation?
Musée d’Orsay
Crossing the Seine to the Musée d’Orsay felt like traveling from ancient civilizations to the birth of modernity. Housed in a beautifully converted Beaux-Arts railway station from 1900, the museum holds the world’s finest collection of Impressionist masterpieces. Standing before Monet’s water lilies, I understood why people speak of being moved to tears by art. The way light seemed to dance across the canvas, the way colors merged and separated—it was like watching the artist’s soul speak directly to mine across the decades.
Latin Quarter
The evening found me wandering through the Latin Quarter, where the narrow streets still echo with the footsteps of Hemingway, Sartre, and countless students from the Sorbonne, founded in 1257. I stopped at Shakespeare and Company, the legendary English bookstore that has been a sanctuary for writers since the 1920s. Sitting in a café nearby, I enjoyed a simple croque-monsieur while watching the eternal theater of Parisian street life unfold. The quarter earned its name from the Latin spoken by university students in medieval times, and somehow, that scholarly atmosphere still permeates every cobblestone.
Day 3: Sacred Spaces and Royal Gardens
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Though the cathedral was closed at that time following the 2019 fire, standing before Notre-Dame still took my breath away. Even wounded, she maintained her dignity, her flying buttresses reaching out like protective arms over the Île de la Cité. Construction began in 1163, and it took nearly 200 years to complete. I walked around the entire perimeter, imagining the generations of craftsmen who devoted their lives to creating this masterpiece, knowing they’d never see it finished. The restoration work happening now is just another chapter in her long story of resilience.
Sainte-Chapelle
Just a short walk from Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle provided the spiritual experience I’d been seeking. Built in just seven years (1241-1248) by King Louis IX to house Christ’s crown of thorns, this Gothic jewel contains 1,113 stained glass panels telling biblical stories in radiant color. When sunlight streams through these windows, the entire chapel becomes a kaleidoscope of dancing light. I sat in silence for an hour, watching how the changing light outside created an ever-shifting artwork inside—a medieval multimedia experience that no modern technology could replicate.
Luxembourg Gardens
The afternoon called for tranquility, and I found it in the Luxembourg Gardens. Created in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici, these 25 hectares of manicured perfection offer Parisians their own piece of paradise. I rented one of the iconic green chairs and positioned myself by the octagonal pond, watching children sail toy boats while their parents discussed philosophy and politics—such a quintessentially Parisian scene. The gardens contain over 100 statues, and I made it my mission to find the replica of the Statue of Liberty, France’s gift to America made manifest in miniature.
Panthéon
As the day waned, I climbed the hill to the Panthéon, where France honors its greatest citizens. Originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, it was converted during the Revolution into a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens. Standing in the crypt before the tombs of Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie (the first woman entombed here on her own merits), I felt the weight of human achievement and the immortality that comes from contributing to humanity’s collective knowledge and culture.
Day 4: Bohemian Heights and Modern Rentals
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
The morning began with a climb up the winding streets of Montmartre, each turn revealing another postcard-perfect view. This hilltop village, once home to Toulouse-Lautrec, Renoir, and Van Gogh, still maintains its bohemian spirit despite the tourist crowds. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, completed in 1914, crowns the hill with its white travertine stone that actually becomes whiter with age due to calcite secretion when it rains. From the dome, 300 steps up, Paris spread before me like a vast canvas, the city’s geometry revealing itself in Haussmann’s grand boulevards radiating from central points like stars.
Discovering Paris by Car
While Paris’s public transport is excellent, I discovered that having a car for a day opened up entirely new possibilities. Through DiscoverCars, I found an affordable rental that allowed me to venture beyond the typical tourist paths. The freedom to drive along the Seine at my own pace, stop at hidden viewpoints, and explore the outer arrondissements where real Parisians live added a dimension to my trip I hadn’t anticipated. The platform made comparing prices from different rental companies simple, and picking up the car near the Gare du Nord was seamless. Having wheels for a day meant I could visit Versailles without depending on tour schedules and discover charming suburbs like Saint-Germain-en-Laye that most tourists never see.
Artists’ Square (Place du Tertre)
Back in Montmartre’s Place du Tertre, I found myself surrounded by artists painting portraits and selling their interpretations of Parisian scenes. This square has been the heart of Montmartre’s artistic community since the early 1900s. I sat for a portrait by an elderly artist who told me stories of the square’s golden age while his charcoal brought my features to life on paper. The portrait now hangs in my home, a tangible memory of an afternoon when I became part of Montmartre’s artistic tradition.
Moulin Rouge
As night fell, the neon lights of the Moulin Rouge beckoned. Opened in 1889, the same year as the Eiffel Tower, this cabaret has been synonymous with Parisian nightlife for over a century. While I didn’t attend a show, simply standing outside, watching the red windmill turn against the darkening sky, transported me to the Belle Époque when Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the can-can dancers and absinthe flowed freely in the nearby cafés.
Day 5: Royal Grandeur and Connected Adventures
Versailles
The journey to Versailles began early, driving through the morning mist along tree-lined roads that once carried royal carriages. The palace, built by Louis XIV to demonstrate the absolute power of the French monarchy, is staggering in its opulence. The Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919, stretches 73 meters with 357 mirrors reflecting the gardens through the arch windows. But it was in the gardens where I truly understood the Sun King’s ambition—1,976 acres of geometrically perfect landscapes that took 40 years to complete. I rented a bicycle to explore the outer reaches, discovering Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, where the queen played at being a shepherdess while revolution brewed beyond the palace walls.
Staying Connected for International Travelers
As an EU citizen, I enjoyed the freedom of using my mobile data throughout Paris without extra charges, but I watched fellow travelers from the US, Asia, and other regions struggle with connectivity issues. For non-EU visitors, I highly recommend DrimiSIM, an international eSIM service that several travelers in my hostel were raving about. They showed me how, within minutes of landing, they had reliable data access without the usual hassles of finding local SIM cards or dealing with exorbitant roaming charges. One Australian couple I met at the Louvre said it transformed their trip—they could navigate the metro system, translate menus, book last-minute museum tickets, and share adventures in real-time without worrying about bill shock. The affordable data packages specifically designed for travelers meant they could use translation apps in local markets, find hidden restaurants recommended by food blogs, and never get lost in the maze-like streets of the Marais. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, this simple solution can eliminate one of modern travel’s biggest headaches.
Evening in the Marais
Returning to Paris, I spent my evening exploring the Marais, the city’s historic Jewish quarter that has transformed into one of its trendiest neighborhoods. The narrow medieval streets, having escaped Haussmann’s 19th-century renovation, maintain their ancient charm. I discovered vintage boutiques, art galleries, and ended up at L’As du Fallafel for what many claim is the best falafel outside of Israel. The contrast between the orthodox Jewish businesses and hip cocktail bars creates a unique energy that epitomizes modern Paris’s ability to honor tradition while embracing change.
Day 6: Final Embraces
Musée Rodin
My final day began in the peaceful gardens of the Musée Rodin. The sculptor’s former workshop and home, the Hôtel Biron, houses many of his masterpieces, but it was in the gardens where I found my moment of perfection. “The Thinker,” probably the world’s most famous sculpture after Michelangelo’s David, sits in contemplation amid rose bushes. I spent time sketching in my journal, trying to capture not just what I saw but what I felt—the weight of leaving Paris already settling in my chest.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
The afternoon took me to Père Lachaise, the world’s most visited cemetery. Opened in 1804, it’s the eternal resting place of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, and countless others who shaped our cultural landscape. Walking these paths feels less like visiting a cemetery and more like exploring an open-air museum where art, history, and mortality intertwine. I left a kiss on Oscar Wilde’s tomb (now protected by glass due to the tradition) and a flower on Chopin’s grave, small gestures connecting me to the endless chain of pilgrims who’ve come to pay their respects.
Sunset from the Arc de Triomphe
For my final evening, I climbed the 284 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor his military victories, it wasn’t completed until 1836, long after his defeat. From the top, twelve avenues radiate outward in what’s known as the “étoile” (star), Haussmann’s urban planning at its most ambitious. As the sun set, painting the city in shades of gold and rose, I watched the lights begin to twinkle across Paris. The Eiffel Tower began its hourly light show, and I realized that Paris had given me exactly what I’d come seeking—not just photographs and memories, but a transformation, subtle yet profound.
The Best Season to Visit Paris
After experiencing Paris in various lights, I can confidently say that late spring (May to early June) and early fall (September to October) offer the most magical experiences. During these shoulder seasons, the weather is mild—perfect for long walks along the Seine or afternoon lounging in gardens. The tourist crowds are manageable, meaning shorter lines at museums and the ability to find a table at that perfect café without reservations. Spring brings the city’s gardens to explosive life, with cherry blossoms in the Parc de Sceaux and wisteria draping over Montmartre’s hidden corners. Fall paints the city in warm golds and ambers, with the grape harvest season bringing special wine events and the comfort food season beginning in earnest.
Summer, while vibrant with festivals and long daylight hours (sunset can be as late as 10 PM), brings crowds that can diminish the intimate experiences Paris offers. Winter has its own charm—Christmas markets, fewer tourists, and museums you can actually contemplate in peace—but the short days and frequent rain require a different kind of travel mindset.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Parisian Journey
Through trial and delightful error, I learned several lessons that can smooth any Parisian adventure. First, learn basic French phrases—even stumbling through “Bonjour” and “Merci” opens doors and hearts that remain closed to those who assume everyone speaks English. The effort matters more than the execution.
Book museum tickets online in advance, especially for the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. The skip-the-line access isn’t just about saving time; it’s about preserving energy for actual art appreciation rather than queue frustration. Consider the Paris Museum Pass if you’re planning intensive museum days—it pays for itself after three major museums and includes skip-the-line privileges.
Master the metro early. Buy a carnet (book of 10 tickets) rather than individual tickets—it’s cheaper and saves time. The metro closes around 1 AM (2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), so plan accordingly. Walking remains the best way to discover Paris’s hidden corners, but comfortable shoes are non-negotiable—those charming cobblestones become less charming after 20,000 steps.
Dining operates on Parisian time: lunch from noon to 2 PM, dinner rarely before 7:30 PM. Attempting to eat outside these windows often means settling for tourist-trap restaurants. Make reservations for dinner, especially at popular bistros. The prix fixe lunch menus offer exceptional value—often the same food as dinner at half the price.
Always greet shopkeepers when entering and leaving small shops—it’s not just polite, it’s expected. Tipping isn’t required as service is included, but leaving small change for good service is appreciated. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded metros and tourist areas—pickpockets are sophisticated and target distracted tourists.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
The food in Paris deserves its own love letter. Beyond the classics I’ve mentioned, I discovered that Parisian cuisine is evolving while honoring its roots. The croissant, actually Austrian in origin, has been perfected here into a buttery, flaky heaven. A proper Parisian breakfast—café au lait with a croissant from a local boulangerie—sets the day’s pace perfectly.
I learned to shop like a Parisian at the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the city’s oldest covered market dating from 1628. Here, vendors remember their customers’ preferences, and buying cheese becomes a conversation about terroir and tradition. The fromageur spent fifteen minutes helping me understand the difference between Camembert and Brie de Meaux, education delivered with passion that transformed cheese from food to culture.
Street food has found its place, too. The crêpe stands that dot tourist areas pale compared to the crêperies in Montparnasse, where Breton traditions create paper-thin pancakes that are meals unto themselves. The newest addition to Parisian street food—the jambon-beurre sandwich—proves that perfection needs only quality ham, creamy butter, and a perfect baguette.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paris
Q: How many days do I need to see Paris properly?
A: While you could spend a lifetime discovering Paris, 5-7 days allows you to see major attractions without rushing and still have time for spontaneous discoveries. This gives you time to revisit favorites and explore different neighborhoods at various times of day.
Q: Is Paris safe for solo travelers?
A: Paris is generally very safe for solo travelers. Exercise normal urban caution—avoid empty streets late at night, keep valuables secure, and trust your instincts. The tourist areas are well-patrolled, and the metro is safe until closing time.
Q: Do I need to speak French to visit Paris?
A: While many Parisians speak English, especially in tourist areas, making an effort with basic French phrases significantly enhances your experience. Download a translation app, carry a phrase book, and don’t be afraid to try—Parisians appreciate the effort.
Q: What’s the best way to get from the airport to central Paris?
A: The RER B train from CDG to central Paris takes about 45 minutes and costs around €11. Taxis cost €50-70 depending on traffic and destination. For comfort with luggage, book a shuttle service in advance.
Q: Should I buy skip-the-line tickets?
A: Absolutely, especially for the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Versailles. The time saved is worth the small extra cost, particularly during peak season. Many can be booked online up to 60 days in advance.
Q: What’s the dress code for restaurants?
A: Parisians dress well for dinner. Smart casual is usually appropriate—avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, and baseball caps in nice restaurants. When in doubt, dress up rather than down.
Q: Is Paris expensive?
A: Paris can be expensive, but budget options exist. Prix fixe lunches, bakeries for breakfast, and picnics in parks can significantly reduce food costs. Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
Q: What’s the best area to stay in Paris?
A: The Marais (3rd/4th arrondissements) offers central location and character. Saint-Germain (6th) is classic Left Bank charm. For budget options with good connections, consider the 10th or 11th arrondissements.
Q: Can I drink tap water in Paris?
A: Yes, Parisian tap water is safe and high quality. Restaurants must provide free tap water (une carafe d’eau) upon request. Public fountains throughout the city also provide drinking water.
Q: When do shops and museums close?
A: Most museums close on Mondays or Tuesdays—check before going. Shops typically open 10 AM-7 PM, closed Sundays except in the Marais and Champs-Élysées. Supermarkets close by 9 PM, but some Monoprix stores stay open until 11 PM.
As my taxi pulled away from my hotel that final morning, heading back to Charles de Gaulle, I didn’t look back. Not because I wanted to leave, but because I knew I’d return. Paris isn’t a destination you visit once; it’s a conversation that continues throughout your life, each visit adding new chapters to your personal story with the city. The City of Light had illuminated corners of myself I didn’t know existed, and for that awakening, for that gentle transformation that only travel can provide, I will be forever grateful. Paris doesn’t just stay in your photographs—it settles into your soul, a permanent resident in the geography of your dreams.
