Paris - France

Paris: The City of Lights

On this trip around Europe, Paris could not be left out. After all, besides being an unmissable destination, it was the perfect setting to celebrate Mariana’s birthday.

This time, I arrived in the city in a different way: I was coming by bus from Eindhoven, in the Netherlands. The trip ended at the Bercy bus station and, from there, I just took the metro straight to the Eiffel Tower.

Unmissable classics and charm on the banks of the Seine.

Eiffel Tower.

There’s nothing better than starting the day early, straight to the Eiffel Tower. Nowadays, the surrounding area is fenced off, which makes access a little slower due to the X-ray inspection. Despite this small setback, we continued with excitement.

Upon arrival, I went straight to buy tickets to the top, using the elevators. Luckily, the line for the first elevator only took about 20 minutes, and for the second, another 30 minutes.

The view from the top is still absolutely sensational. We spent a good while there, admiring Paris from above. And, since we were celebrating a special date, we made sure to toast with Champagne! Then, at a more leisurely pace, we began the descent, enjoying every moment.

Walk to the Arc de Triomphe.

After visiting the Tower, we decided to walk along the banks of the Seine River and, upon crossing it, we arrived at Trocadéro. Officially called Esplanade du Trocadéro, the place is known for its privileged view of the Eiffel Tower. In the center of the esplanade is the imposing Palais de Chaillot, which houses several museums. It is one of the best spots for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the water mirror and the gardens create an even more magical scene.

Next, we continued along the elegant Avenue Kléber, which took us to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most emblematic monuments in Paris. Located in Place Charles de Gaulle, at the top of the Champs-Élysées Avenue, the arch was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 as a tribute to the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Standing 50 meters tall, it is impressive both for its size and for the details carved into its walls — the names of battles and generals are prominent. At its feet lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with an eternal flame lit since 1923, in tribute to the dead of the First World War.

Champs-Élysées to the Tuileries Garden.

From there, we walked peacefully down the famous Champs-Élysées, a veritable walkway of luxury shops, lively cafés and tourists from all over the world. Almost at the end of the avenue, it is worth taking a short detour to see two architectural icons: the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais.

Built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, both are impressive at first sight. The Grand Palais, with its metal structure and glass dome, hosts major exhibitions and cultural events. The Petit Palais, in Beaux-Arts style, houses the Museum of Fine Arts of Paris, with free admission. Both are unmissable stops for those who love art, history and architecture.

Continuing our tour, we arrived at the Tuileries Garden, a great place to rest, watch the world go by and enjoy street artist performances.

Louvre Museum.

Unfortunately, we were short on time and were unable to visit the museum inside. However, just the walk in front of the glass pyramid was worth the visit. It is impossible not to be enchanted by this Parisian icon.

Dinner with Raclette.

In the evening, we had a special dinner to end the day in style: we chose one of the best raclette restaurants in Paris. Melted cheese, potatoes, good wines… everything perfect for a memorable celebration.

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Bohemian, artistic and authentic Paris.

Morning in the Bois de Boulogne.

Since we were staying very close to the Bois de Boulogne. I took the opportunity to start the day with a walk through this huge and charming park, located in the western part of the city. With more than 800 hectares, the park offers lakes, trails, flower gardens and ideal areas for picnics. Inside, you can also visit the Jardin d’Acclimatation, great for children, and the modern Louis Vuitton Foundation, dedicated to contemporary art.

Luxembourg Gardens.

We took the metro and went to visit the Luxembourg Gardens. Created in the 17th century, it combines French and English gardens, with fountains, sculptures and chairs scattered among trees. Ideal for relaxing, having a picnic or just watching Parisian life in a peaceful and elegant environment in the heart of the city.

Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité.

After the green walk, we took the metro to Notre-Dame Cathedral. It is located on the Île de la Cité, right in the heart of Paris. This jewel of Gothic architecture began construction in 1163 and took almost two centuries to complete.

Unfortunately, in 2019, the cathedral suffered a major fire, but fortunately it is already in an advanced stage of restoration. Even though we were unable to enter, it was possible to admire its imposing façade and much of the reconstructed exterior. Still, feeling the atmosphere of the place is a unique experience.

Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

We then continued to Montmartre, one of the most charming and characterful neighborhoods in Paris. We climbed the hill slowly, stopping at cozy cafés until we reached the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. With its white dome that stands out on the horizon, it offers one of the most stunning views of the city, especially at sunset.

Inside, the basilica enchants with its golden mosaics and serene atmosphere. And the neighborhood, with its artistic past. Which welcomed geniuses like Picasso and Van Gogh. Still breathes art in every corner.

On the way down, we got lost (deliberately) among the alleys, studios, cafes and street musicians. Montmartre is this delightful mix of faith, art and fun. And, of course, we stopped in front of the Moulin Rouge. The legendary cabaret with its red windmill on the facade. Symbol of Parisian nightlife and birthplace of the cancan.

Sunset on the Seine.

To end with a flourish, we decided to enjoy the sunset on the banks of the Seine River. The golden light reflected on the water, the boats passing by and the light atmosphere were the perfect end to an intense day full of discoveries.