If you follow me on Insta, you know that I spent a couple days in Paris last week! Yes, I know what you’re thinking – who goes to Paris for a couple days? Well, I do…almost every year. It’s my favorite city so I try and squeeze it in (even if that means I’m only there for a couple days). Between my full-time job and different obligations with my blog, it’s been tough for me to take more than a few days at a time off the past couple of years. That being said, I now consider myself an expert in conquering the city in 72 hours.
Where to Stay
When it comes to hotels in Paris, I much prefer staying a boutique hotel. They’re typically much smaller, the staff is more personable, and you really get the authentic Parisian experience. This trip, I stayed at Hotel Balmoral and felt totally pampered. It’s situated in a typical Haussman-style building from the 19th century right in the heart of Paris – just steps away from the Arc de Triomphe.
Most rooms are equipped with wrought-iron balconies (ahem, Instagram gold). I stayed in a suite which was super spacious and luxurious. The staff is incredibly helpful when it comes to pretty much anything (directions, restaurant recommendations, you name it!) and I will definitely be coming back.
The Eiffel Tower
This is a bit of a no-brainer, but if you’ve never been, it should be the first stop on your list. Getting a crepe (one involving nutella, obviously) at one of the vendors outside is also mandatory. You’ll likely see a line (about a 2 hour wait) to ride the cart to the top. Sometimes I think people don’t realize that you can take the stairs up – and it’s cheaper. It’s a bit of a workout, but any exercise is good exercise when you’re drinking wine all day, right?
As a blogger, I’ve obviously done my research when it comes to the best photo-op spots. For everyone that messaged me asking where this was, it’s the staircase at the bottom of the Jardin de Trocadero…but OMG be careful. This is way higher than it looks, and it’s a straight drop on the other side. This was a true Instagram vs. Reality moment because despite the “candid laughter” in this photo, I was really shaking/crying on the inside/evaluating my life decisions/ hoping if I do fall my picture will still get a lot of likes (kidding, kind of).
River Tour on the Seine
Yes, this is a bit touristy, but it’s such a relaxing way to take in the city. Almost everything you will want to see is along the Seine, so this tour really covers it all. Who doesn’t love boats with bars? I prefer going when the sun is setting because you’ll get to catch the Eiffel Tower at night – which is way better than the Eiffel Tower during the day. Here’s proof:
Montmartre
Montmartre is like a mini village within the city! It’s a very artsy area, so it was right up my alley. Definitely make time to walk around the streets of Montmartre – there are so many cute cafes and shops. At the very top of Montmartre is the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur, a Roman Catholic Basilica that sits on the highest point in all of Paris (aka the absolute best view of the city).
Just Wander
My favorite day in Paris was our last day there, when we had absolutely nothing planned. Sometimes I think people get too hung up on seeing all of the historic sites when traveling to a new city. After waiting in line after line, running around an enormous city, and spending a whole lot of money – did you really enjoy yourself?
I loved just walking around, shopping, and going out to lunch our last day in Paris. Sometimes spending an ordinary day in a foreign country can be more valuable than immersing yourself in museums and tours.
Until next trip!
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