Exploring Paris - TOP 20 things to see & do for first-timers
Bonjour! And welcome to a new video of Paris Top Tips! In Paris, every cobblestone tells a tale! In this video, I will present you my top 20 must-sees and must-dos in the City of Light, from landmarks to culinary delights. So, let's dive into Parisian magic! Oh. By the way, there’s a secret bonus, if you stay until the end... Start your day like a true Parisian with a delightful French café breakfast.
Sip on a café au lait, an earl grey tea, or a creamy hot chocolate, my personal favorite, ... indulge in a freshly baked croissant and some crispy baguette with butter and jam, ... and soak up the morning ambiance at a local café. This is the perfect way to embrace the French way of life. No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Spend a few hours marveling at this symbol of romance, take a lift to the top for breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the history of this wrought-iron masterpiece. Capture the mesmerizing cityscape from the observation decks, ... and then enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Champ de Mars gardens below the Eiffel Tower. It’s the promise of an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. For a magical encore, return at night when the tower lights up, creating a dazzling spectacle that sparkles against the Parisian skyline.
For a touch of luxury and shopping, head to Galeries Lafayette and Printemps on the Grands Boulevards. Both of these iconic department stores offer a unique blend of fashion, elegance, in buildings with a stunning art deco architecture. Even if you're not a shopaholic, the experience is a must. Home to thousands of works of art, including the world-famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is a cultural treasure trove. Spend a few hours there, exploring its vast halls, and don't forget to appreciate the magnificent glass pyramid in the courtyard. Experience the vibrant colors and flavors of a traditional French market.
From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene and perhaps pick up some souvenirs along the way. Embark on a romantic Seine River cruise: it's a captivating way to see Paris from a different perspective. By day...
... or by night! Witness the city's landmarks illuminated against the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere. Dive into the world of grandeur at the Opéra Garnier! Marvel at the opulent interiors, soak in the history, and perhaps catch a performance if time allows. It's a true testament to Paris's artistic and architectural prowess. Savor the essence of French cuisine by indulging in one of France's most famous dishes Blanquette de veau is a traditional French dish, showcasing tender veal in a creamy white sauce, paired with potatoes, vegetables, and rice: a comforting culinary masterpiece Another French classic, Boeuf Bourguignon features tender beef slow-cooked in red wine, with aromatic herbs, mushrooms, and pearl onions, resulting in a rich and flavorful culinary delight. Cassoulet is a flavorful medley of slow-cooked white beans, savory meats like duck, sausages, and pork: a comforting and robust foodie experience from the south-west of France.
Choucroute is a savory Alsatian delight, combining fermented cabbage with a symphony of cured meats, such as sausages and pork: a real treat with a glass of white wine! Finally, Raclette is a Swiss-French specialty, featuring melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles: along with cheese fondue, the best culinary experience on a cold winter evening! Discover the Gothic masterpiece of Sainte Chapelle, known for its stunning stained glass windows. For me, maybe the most beautiful church in the world! This hidden gem is tucked away within the medieval walls of the Île de la Cité and is a true marvel of medieval architecture. Embark on a captivating journey, ascending the iconic Arc de Triomphe, where stunning panoramic views of Paris await. Up there, you will stand in awe as the city unfolds beneath you. It may be the best rooftop panorama of the city, as it provides the best view over the Eiffel Tower! And over the majestic Champs-Elysées, that the French proudly call “the most beautiful avenue in the world”! Take a few moments to bow at the Tomb of the Unknown French Soldier from World War I And thenafter, descend the famed Champs-Élysées, lined with luxury boutiques, theaters, and charming cafes.
Explore the chic boutiques and lively ambiance, offering a perfect mix for some shopping indulgence and laid-back people-watching. Get onboard an Hop-on / Hop-off bus and explore the city at your own pace. You’ll have to choose between Big Bus Tours and Toot Bus.
It's a convenient way to cover more ground and visit key attractions, allowing you to tailor your Parisian adventure to your preferences. You have the choice between the 1-day, 2-day and 3-day ticket. And both providers also offer a night tour with a different route. Stroll through the artsy charm of Montmartre, where creativity blooms in every corner. It's a journey where the artistic soul of Montmartre converges with the breathtaking scenery, creating an experience that will linger in your heart and imagination.
Then, head up to the Sacré-Coeur for stunning views that capture the spirit of this iconic neighborhood. As you step out of the Sacré-Coeur, the mesmerizing light beckons, compelling you to ascend to its summit for a truly breathtaking panorama of the city below. Step into a former railway station turned art haven at the Musée d’Orsay.
Home to the most extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces on earth, this museum offers a unique perspective on the art world. Here, on the fifth floor of the museum, the brushstrokes of renowned artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Cézanne or Degas come to life. Step back in time as you explore the famous covered passages of Paris. These hidden gems are a testament to the city's 19th-century elegance, featuring charming shops, cafés, and a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of a bygone era. Most of these covered passages are located in the 2nd and 9th arrondissement, enabling an easy stroll, as the one you will find in the video for which you can see the link right now on the top right corner. Should you be looking for a nice yet affordable 2-star hotel in the heart of Paris, Hotel Chopin definitely is a great choice! Discover the historic charm of Le Marais, a neighborhood famous for its narrow streets, medieval buildings and beautiful gardens and squares.
Visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris And spend some time in the serene Place des Vosges, surrounded by elegant arcades and picturesque gardens. And finish with a chausson aux pommes from SAIN Boulangerie, they’re the best in Paris! Embark on a culinary adventure with a food tour through the streets of Paris. Sample delectable treats, from pastries to cheeses, and discover the rich flavors that define French cuisine. It's a gastronomic journey you won't soon forget.
I don't do food tours, I don't have any stake in any company that provides food tours, but I have randomly selected here three organizations that can offer you one of these exciting food tours in Paris. Dive into the intellectual heart of Paris in the Latin Quarter. Explore the winding streets of Quartier Latin, where history and academia intertwine.
Visit some of the most exquisitely beautiful and some of the oldest churches in the city. See Archangel Michael wrestling with the devil! Take a visit to one the most famous bookshops in the world. And, eventually, explore the Panthéon, a neoclassical masterpiece! "To the great men, from a grateful nation" When leaving the Latin Quarter, and heading to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood which will be the following must-see, Make a pause in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. This oasis in the heart of the city offers lush greenery, beautiful pools, and a peaceful atmosphere.
It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon. Immerse yourself in the bohemian ambiance of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Pay a visit to the second-hand bookstores on the banks of the Seine before lingering on the magnificent Pont des Arts Explore the charming streets of this Left Bank neighborhood and soak in the intellectual and artistic history of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Visit iconic cafés like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, and make sure to go to the beautiful church that gave its name to the district. Escape the city for a day and explore the opulent Palace of Versailles. And a true palace it is, though French people call it a castle! Roam through the lavish halls... ... beautiful rooms... ..and end up drowning in the gold and paintings of the Great Hall of Mirrors Then, stroll through the stunning gardens, and complete your full immersion in the grandeur of French royalty. We’ve made it! 20 absolute things to see and do in the City of Light! Before we finish, let me give you my secret picnic spot. It’s here, at the tip of the Ile de la Cité, behind the weaping willow!
2023-10-13 15:41
