Aside from being the most romantic city in the world, there are many fabulous reasons to see Paris, no matter what time of year. From the beautiful green spaces to the amazing cafes, Paris is a unique city that you will fall in love with when you visit.
While you are exploring Paris, drop any extra backpacks and bags in a luggage locker for safekeeping. Stroll through the beautiful streets without being hindered by big bags. See as much as you can! Whether you are a world traveller or looking to head abroad for the first time, Paris is always a wonderful choice.
Book your plane ticket, make your hotel reservations, and plan your itinerary for a fabulous Paris getaway. Bring your significant other or the whole family, or maybe you and your pals should plan a weekend getaway. No matter who comes with you, it is sure to be a spectacular time!
The Green Spaces
There are so many green spaces in this bustling city that you may forget you are right in the middle of a busy metropolis. There are over 450 gardens and parks scattered throughout Paris where you can kick back and breathe fresh air while communing with nature.
Some of the best parks in the city include the Tuileries Gardens, Luxembourg Gardens, Promenade Plantée, and Parc des Buttes Chaumont. Pack your hiking shoes and plan to make your way through several of the parks and gardens in Paris.
World Famous Museums
You do not have to be a history nut or art lover to appreciate the fact that Paris has some of the best museums. Plan a day of museum hopping and check out some of the bigger museums such as the Louvre with almost 40,000 objects making it the biggest museum in the world.
After saying a quick “hello” to the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, you will want to head over to the Musee d’Orsay, one of the best places for French art. The works of Monet and Van Gogh grace the galleries of this museum.
Another great museum in Paris is the lesser-known Musee Picasso with over 5,000 objects and art pieces by Pablo Picasso. Again, you do not have to be a die-hard fan of Picasso to truly appreciate the magnificence of this museum.
Café Culture
This is a real thing in Paris. The Parisian café that you see portrayed in the movies is really not that far off base from the actual café culture of Paris. The row of round tables that face the sidewalk allowing you to watch people stroll by is definitely iconic and one of the most relaxing things to do.
No matter the season, you are going to see Parisians braving the weather to enjoy time at a café. These cafés are more than a place to grab a quick meal or espresso, they are meeting places for friends, family, and colleagues. Great writers such as Hemmingway have used Parisian cafés as their offices.
Shopping in Paris
Shopping in Paris is like nothing you have ever experienced. There are exceptional shops of every shape and size throughout the city that you will want to explore. Stroll down the Champs-Élysées, probably the most famous street in the world and the best shopping district in Paris.
Make your way down some of the covered passages, such as the Passage des Panoramas, where charming shops throw open their doors to welcome you in. Artisans are hard at work creating one-of-a-kind masterpieces you will definitely want to bring home.
Sights and Architecture
The most iconic symbol of Paris is the Eiffel Tower so it is only natural that when you visit, you take some time to see this breathtaking monument up close. The tower was constructed for the World’s Fair in 1889 and has been a mainstay ever since. Climb to the summit for gorgeous views of the city.
In 1985, the tradition of lighting the tower at night for five minutes each hour began. If you are lucky enough to book a hotel with views of the tower, you will get to see the lights throughout the night.
The Arc de Triomphe is another interesting and majestic monument you want to see when in Paris. Located at the end of the Champs-Élysées, the monument honours all who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
The Notre Dame, a medieval cathedral located in the 4th arrondissement is another place to see. Although it was heavily damaged by a fire on 2019, you can still visit and learn more about its history. There are even some parts inside of the cathedral you are allowed to tour.
The Seasons
Figuring out the best time to visit Paris can be tricky. Every season is wonderful and has its own uniqueness. If you are able, visit during each season at least once. Springtime sees the awaking of the flowering trees and the air is filled with sweet smells.
Summertime is one of the busiest times in Paris for tourists but locals are trying to escape the city. Festivals abound during the summer and the café culture is in full swing. Summer is also the priciest for tourists.
Autumn sees the vibrant fall colours bursting forth and most of the craziness of the tourist season coming to an end. Winter, especially during the holidays, is festive and streets are filled with twinkling lights and amazing markets.
Known as the City of 100 Villages
So, what exactly does the City of 100 Villages mean? Each area of the city is like its own little village filled with Haussmannian buildings and old, meandering boulevards. Alleyways that wind through the neighbourhoods give you the sense of walking through a small village.
While you may think Paris is this hip and trendy city, there are parts of the city that seem stuck in time with charming buildings, and even the people are full of old-world charisma. The Butte aux Cailles is one such area as is the Butte Bergeyre Mouzaia.
Foodie Paradise
If for no other reason, you have to visit Paris for the French cuisine. Each region of France has its own spin on classic French cooking and the Parisian food scene is unlike anything you will experience. Most French cooking is not really fancy, it just sounds fancy and uses rich, quality ingredients.
There are more than 70 Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris to choose from when you are searching for a high-end dining experience. Those searching for lower-priced options will find delicious bistros and brasseries.
Sign up for a food tour or two and discover the different types of French cuisine. Most food tours in Paris last between three to four hours and include sightseeing as well as plenty of tastings and wine pairings.
From marvellous architecture, old-world charm, and breathtaking museums to delicious food tours and magnificent shopping, Paris really has it all. No matter the season, there is plenty to keep you busy and make memories that will last a lifetime.
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