Heading to a big city like Paris can be overwhelming. There’s so much to do in such little time. I’m sure you’ve heard plenty that you can live in cities for years and still not do everything it has to offer. That’s why I love to write down a full list of everything I’d love to do, then map it out from there. I created buy top 10 things you must do when visiting Paris to give you a good start in your planning.
If you are looking for more, head to my other Paris blogs!
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1. Explore the Eiffel Tower picture locations
You know, the large structure in Paris that you see millions of pictures of? Yes, that’s the one! There are a lot of beautiful places to spot and capture the Eiffel Tower, so take an afternoon and get different perspectives. Here are a few of my favorite locations:
- Avenue de Camoens
- Jardins du Trocadero
- Square Rapp
- Palais de Tokyo
- Passerelle Debilly
2. Munch on a good street crepe (or five)
Crepes are easily my favorite thing about Paris. Usually when I go, I need to have at the very least two of them. There’s plenty of street vendors that are serving them, which I’d highly recommend doing over a restaurant. However, if you do want to sit down and have one, head to Oroyona. This spot is a hole in the wall and is delicious!
3. Take a picture with the Louvre
Don’t be afraid to be touristy, alright? You need those fun pictures that you always see with your finger pointing at the top of the Louvre. Make it happen. Then walk around and head to the next location.
4. Eat at one of the Big Mamma restaurants
Big Mamma Group is Italian food – I will warn you that. However, it is some of the best Italian food I’ve ever had in my whole life. Yes, it’s in France. Odd, I know, but so worth it. My favorite was BigLove. Just make sure to show up at least 5 minutes before they open!
5. Climb up the Sacré-Cœur for a view of the entire city
This was my first time doing this in Paris and it was stunning. You can overlook the entire city and get different angles at the top. Make sure to take deep breaths and prepare yourself for some tight spaces going all the way up. Don’t worry though, there is an entrance and exit, so you won’t need to fight anyone going down.
6. Get hot cocoa at Angelina Paris
This is a cute cafe with breakfast and some of the best hot cocoa you’ll ever have. I went in the summer and still ordered it. The hot cocoa is rich in flavor and you can easily share it with a friend. I had the hot cocoa and a chocolate crepe… it was a little too much chocolate for me!
7. Wander around Le Marais
A hip cool area with lots of adorable Parisian side streets. Le Marais is kind of an “up and coming” area, although I think it’s already arrived. Plenty of cute shops, delicious restaurants, fresh food markets and more. It is a great area to wander around aimlessly.
8. Read a book at Shakespeare & Co.
I visit this place every time I go to Paris. I just love it because of how old it is. They’ve done a great job keeping its character and history. You can sit and read while you’re there, or even purchase books as well.
9. Sit and people watch at one of the many Jardins
There are handfuls of beautifully kept jardins around Paris. When I said jardins, I mean gardens. When the flowers are in bloom, they are picturesque and serene to walk around in. Sit on a park bench or bring a blanket with you to relax and people watch. Or you can even bring a picnic with you! Here’s a few to explore a bit:
- Le Jardin du Luxembourg
- Jardin des Tuileries
- Jardins des Champs-Elysees
- Of course, Jardins du Trocadero
10. Cafe hop and drink some of the best cappuccinos you’ll ever have
When I go to Europe, I become a coffee addict. They are just so darn good! Cappuccinos are my go to, and I usually have around two a day. These are a few of my favorite coffee shops to go to:
- Les Deux Magots
- Cafe de Flore
- La Maison Rose
- Le Petit Moulin
- Cafe Kitsune Palais Royal
- Starbucks – lol I’m kidding guys
There you have it! My top ten things to do when you’re visiting Paris. It is such a beautiful city and I know no matter what you choose to do, you will have an amazing time. Hopefully these will just get you on the right track! Merci!