So, it’s going to be your first time in Paris. Whether you’re going on a tour of all of France or you’re just making a quick visit on a whole tour of Europe, Paris is a city you don’t want to miss. For many little wander-lusters out there, it’s their biggest dream to one day see the Eiffel Tower, hear the French language, and explore some of the world’s most prominent museums. Now, it’s finally your turn.
This is what I did my first time in Paris, and you should too!
1. See the Eiffel Tower
It may be cliche, but it is for a reason. If you grew up seeing the Eiffel Tower on everything from aprons to t-shirts as a kid, it’s pretty amazing when you get to see the real thing for the first time. And, when you see the Eiffel Tower, really LOOK at it. See it dazzle at night-time from your hotel window or stand in front of it and just stare at its beauty.
2. Sit at a Cafe and People Watch
Nothing like French cafes and French coffee from those cafes. This is how the Parisians do it. Find a cafe, order a drink and maybe some macaroons, sit outside, and watch how Paris moves right before your eyes.
3. Explore the Louvre and Other Artistic Features of the City
Seeing the Mona Lisa in person at the Louvre is a necessary part of any Paris tour. But, that’s not the only exciting piece of art this city offers. There are tons of art museums, galleries, statues, and landmarks, like the Arc de Triomphe or the Catacombs, (which may not be artsy perse but still a sight to see).
4. Have a Picnic in Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect place for a Parisian picnic. With the beautiful plants, a stunning fountain, and a view of the palace, you can get lost here among the gardens or just sit back, relax, and enjoy your baguette. Also, don’t miss the other Statue of Liberty here, which is significantly smaller than the one in New York.
5. Walk Around the Palace of Versaille
It may be a little outside of Paris, but it’s worth the trip. You can spend an entire day exploring the inside of the palace and another day exploring the grounds. It’s absolutely breathtaking and just another one of Paris’ tricks to make you fall in love the first time you meet her.
6. Eat and Drink More Cheese and Wine Than You Could Ever Imagine
Do you love wine? Cheese? Do you love the two of them together? This is the only place you can travel on a tour and it’s borderline acceptable for you to start your day with a glass of wine and some cheese. When I was there, we pretty much did this every day.
7. Thrive in a Book-Lovers Paradise
In the 1920s, Paris was a place for artists and writers to come and live as expats and produce legendary works for generations to come. Now, you can find their work in places that they used to sit and write in, like the bookstore Shakespeare & Co. or Hemingway’s Paris home located in the Latin Quarter.
8. Seal Your Love on the Lock Bridge
You can spend each day walking along the Seine River, admiring its beauty and tranquility. But, in between grabbing an ice cream or shopping at the booths selling art and souvenirs, take a minute to buy a lock and seal your love for Paris on the lock bridge. The lock bridges have been taken down and put up time and time again. So, get there before it’s gone for good!
If you love the idea of traveling to this city, then your first time in Paris should be a special one. Use these tips to help you design the perfect tour where you’ll have time to do all these things and more!
Hana LaRock is originally from New York, though has called other places around the world her home for the last two years. She currently lives in South Korea as an English teacher and freelance travel writer. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing, reading, spending time with her dog, and of course, traveling. You can find her at www.hanalarockwriting.com.
