I’m often asked what my favourite site is in Paris and, recently, what I would do if I only had 48 hours. That seemed impossible to me as I feel there is so much to do, however, I successfully narrowed down my list.
Make a list of your top 10
I did this for our first visit and we worked our way down. It assured that we saw everything we wanted to and didn’t leave feeling we missed something in case we never made it back.
Map everything in each Arrondissement
One of the best things I did for our first visit was think about how we could maximize our time. This is helpful whether you’re there two weeks or more, or only 48 hours. I included top sites, shopping, and dining. It helps to get the hours and any special events such as extended hours for museums, etc. I also figured out which dates/times are the busiest at each site so we could avoid them, however, I realize this may not be possible if you’re on a schedule. Although I’m a shopper at heart, I didn’t include this in my “Must Do” list. I knew I could get anything I wanted after I left so I’m not going to add boutiques in my list. This will be a separate post and trust me, I have many places to include!
Le Grande Dame
Note: the champagne bar opens at 5pm, and there are two restaurants. We love le Jules Verne and the view is breathtaking at sunset. Also, the Eiffel is a perfect spot for a picnic… I love to watch her twinkle.
Notre Dame
You can view the Crown of Thorns on certain dates, plus the Rose Window is a site to see.
Museums
For us, this was the D’Orsay and Louvre, however, you need to determine which museum{s} is best for you.
Pont Alexander III
I am in love with this bridge and just wanted to stroll across.
Ladurée
This photo was taken during our fist trip.. I love the cocktails also! PS: The bar is wonderful, I especially love the macaron cocktails.
Montmartre
There are artists painting and selling their art on Sundays.
Moonlight walk along the Seine
This is one of my absolute favourite things to do, perfect for late hours once everything is closed. If I only have 48 hours, I would stay awake the entire time and sleep after I left.
Luxembourg Gardens
And a stroll around Saint Germain-des-Prés.. wonderful shopping and beautiful architecture.
Flower and food markets
I prefer the Rue Cler since we always rent apartments in the 7th. Fresh flowers are always a must for me, plus I love picking up wine, cheese, breads, and any item that cannot be found in the US.
Angelina’s
The chocolate chaud is out of this world! Plus, there are great boutiques near by if you have the time
Tips:
– We traveled via Batobus since we prefer to see the beautiful city rather than be underground, plus you can view more sites that you may not be able to see otherwise.
– Purchasing tickets in advance saves time and money.
– Wear comfortable shoes and carry a small bag {if you need one}. I typically don’t carry one unless we’re going to dinner in the evening and we take a cab. The last thing you want is to be a victim of pickpockets.
– Plan for the unexpected. You may see something you must do or see. Some of our best memories are strolling down unexpected corners of neighborhoods and talking with locals.
– Learn about the history before you visit. My husband wished he read more about the history of the Notre Dame before our first visit so he could have appreciated it more.
If you had 48 hours, which sites would you visit?
xoxo,
B
If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com
Photo via here
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Well , I think you more or less covered every thing in your choices.
Beautiful pictures.
That is very good advice about reading up on a place before you go.
I think you have just about covered all the main places. Great photos! We like to stroll around Le Marais finding unexpected gems.