Paris is often considered to be the cultural center of Europe. This city boasts multiple museums, and has attracted artists from around the world for centuries. Also known for its world-renowned culinary scene, the city boasts many wonderful restaurants and one of the world’s most prestigious culinary institutes. For its visitors and inhabitants, the City of Light is ripe with possibility and opportunities for adventure.
8:00 a.m. – Gear up for the busy day ahead by enjoying breakfast at a local café. Holybelly is a delicious little restaurant located in the 10th arrondissement. This funky spot serves classics like pancakes, bacon, and eggs, as well as an extensive assortment of locally roasted coffees and teas. Fresh bread is baked daily and served with each meal. If you prefer to eat your breakfast on the go, visit any French boulangerie where you can grab a chocolate croissant or a strawberry crepe to satisfy your hunger.
Louvre Museum
9:00 a.m. – Admire the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Eugene Delacroix, and Johannes Vermeer displayed in the famous Louvre Museum. The museum – itself a work of art – is approximately 60,000 square meters and boasts more than 35,000 artifacts, drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Try to determine which exhibits you would like to visit prior to your arrival, and don’t forget to include masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Note: Pre-order your entrance tickets online to avoid long queues.
11:00 a.m. – Continue walking along the Seine to the Île de la Cité, home to the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. This Catholic cathedral is a fine example of French Gothic architecture. The exterior is decorated with flying buttresses, stained glass windows, and stone gargoyles.
1:00 p.m. – Shop at the boutiques located in Paris’ premier shopping district, the Avenue des Champs-Elysées. The Champs-Elysées hosts couture designers like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Hugo Boss, as well as a variety of other smaller boutiques. Once you’ve finished your shopping, relax with a heavenly lunch at Ladurée. This enchanting bistro offers an array of tasty options, including mini vegetarian burgers, gourmet club sandwiches, and bountiful salads with homemade dressings. Whatever you do, be sure to save room for dessert. Ladurée is best known for their delicious pastries and sweets, including exquisite macarons. Choose from simple flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and lemon, or a more exotic flavor like rose petal or orange blossom.
4:00 p.m. – Prepare to navigate the tunnels of the metro as you proceed on your journey to the artistic hub of the city, Montmartre. Various artists have occupied studios around this bohemian neighborhood including Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. Wander the cobbled streets and you might stumble upon the famous Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the can-can dance. Montmartre is also home to the famous Basilica of Sacré-Coeur. This basilica, sitting high above the city, was built in a unique Roman-Byzantine style to counter the neo-Baroque designs popular in French architecture during the 19th century. Sip a quick cup of coffee or tea at the Café des Deux Moulins and stroll the streets of Paris’ 18th arrondissement.
Eiffel Tower
7:00 p.m. – Hop on the metro to the 7th arrondissement and make your way through the streets towards the iconic Eiffel Tower. On your way, pick up a baguette at a nearby boulangerie, fresh fruit and produce from the market, and some cheese from the fromagerie to enjoy in the Parc du Champ de Mars.
9:00 p.m. – As the sun finishes its gradual descent, spend time appreciating the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. Stroll across the Pont d’Iéna to the Trocadéro area where you will have even more incredible views of the city. The Place du Trocadéro is brimming with street performers and other entertainment. Hungry for a midnight snack? Try a Nutella banana crepe sprinkled with powdered sugar at any of the crêperies in the vicinity. This is the most splendid way to end a mesmerizing day and enchanting evening in this magical city.
World Endeavors 