Just a few days before our summer vacation, the idea of a spontaneous trip to Europe crossed our minds. Inspired by Emily in Paris, we couldn’t shake off the idea of spending a week in Paris, and living our Parisian Dream. We began our internet search for affordable flights and hotel accommodations, and after finding the right options, we booked our tickets, paving the way for a truly unforgettable trip to Paris.
This is my new packing technique that helps me get everything in just one carry on.
Where we stayed:
We chose this hotel for it’s reasonable price, central location in the 8th arrondissment and proximity to the transit system. And it definitely exceeded our expectation for a 3 start boutique hotel. The room itself was very clean, and extremely spacious. The hotel is tucked behind the main road, so it’s nice and quiet at night allowing for a great nights sleep. However, if you wanted to grab a drink, or a deliciously decadent hot chocolate there are numerous resteraunts and bars just a few steps away that are open till 1 am.
Other hotels we considered in the 8th arrondissement that had great reviews and were in a similar price point:
What we did:
Guided Tour at The Louvre:
No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Louvre. A treasure trove of artistic masterpieces that has captured the imagination of art lovers for centuries. Stepping into the grandeur of the Louvre, I was immediately overwhelmed by its sheer magnitude and historical significance. With so much to explore, we were so glad to chose a guided tour with skip the line tickets. Our guide was incredible, not only did he help us navigate the vast halls but also had so much insightful information about the different artwork and their history. I would definitely recommend going with a tour guide.
The Arch de Triomphe:
Another architectural marvel that left me in awe was the Arc de Triomphe. As we stood beneath this colossal monument, I felt a profound connection to the city’s history and its enduring spirit.
The Eiffel Tower:
Although we went to watch the Eiffel Tower twinkle every night, we also spent an evening in the Eiffel Tower. Getting to take in Paris’ iconic skyline, with the Seine River meandering through historic neighborhoods, created a picture-perfect scene that will forever be etched in our memory. I highly recommend going around sunset it was truly magical to watch.
Bateaux Parisiens Seine Boat Cruise:
Another experience I highly recommend doing around sunset is a boat cruise on the Seine. We got to see the most magical views of the city, and the crowds of people sitting along the Seine and enjoying their evening. We also got to enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower sparkling just as sunset arrived.
The Palace of Versailles:
Venturing beyond the city limits, we took the train to the Palace of Versailles. Walking through the lavishly decorated halls, we gained insight into the extravagant lives of French royalty. And, behind the Palace are the absolutely stunning Gardens of Versailles! These carefully planned gardens featured many beautiful fountains, statues, and perfectly trimmed bushes, making them a peaceful retreat where we spent hours relaxing and taking in all the different areas.
Take in the beautiful streets:
One of my favorite memories of our trip is just wandering the enchanting streets of Paris. You can’t help but be captivated by the city’s timeless charm. The picturesque flower-filled restaurant fronts add a touch of romance to the street, their vibrant colors creating a truly magical ambiance. Exploring the delightful streets is a quintessential Parisian experience that left a lasting impression of the city’s elegance.
Where we ate:
No Parisian experience would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. From cozy bistros to bustling street markets, every corner of the city offered a gastronomic adventure.
Although everything we ate in Paris, was absolutely delicious, truly. These 2 restaurants were just outstanding, and are meals I continue to think about.
Chez Pippo:
Chez Pippo in Paris offers an inviting Italian dining experience. The restaurant is small and cozy with a mouth watering menu that made it difficult to choose. We had the calamari as an appetizer, pappardelle bolognese, and the homemade gnocchi. And all 3 were absolutely delicious, the gnocchi were like little clouds of flavor, I dream of them often. For those yearning for a taste of Italy in Paris, Chez Pippo delivers genuine charm and delicious cuisine in every bite.
L’Aller Retour Marais:
In Le Marais, we discovered a charming cozy restaurant where we were treated to one of the most exquisite steak experiences I’ve ever had. The steak was unbelievably tender, and the flavors were simply delightful. We indulged in the bone marrow as our appetizer, and for our main course, we savored the delectable fillet mignon. I highly recommend this restaurant.
We left this city and carried with us a sense of connection to the art, history, and flavors that make Paris an unparalleled destination. Until we meet again, Paris – à bientôt!
~LB
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