Ah, Paris – who can’t resist this beautiful and romantic city. It seems not many people can resist, because the Eiffel Tower is the most popular tourist destination in the whole world! But the truth is, there’s so much more to Paris than just the standard tourist attractions, here are my favourite things to do in Paris:
1. Take in a Show
Everything is a little fancier in Paris, from the Uber drivers who are dressed in suits, to the decoration in a simple cafe. These extra details extend to shows as well – for example, Moulin Rouge in Paris has a dress code, ensuring not only is the show stunning, but that everyone has dressed a little nicer making the ambiance of the event just that little bit classier! This is one of the most famous shows in the world, and where better to see it than in Paris? Don’t forget to buy tickets to a Moulin Rouge show before you leave home, in order not to miss out. Also, be aware that often if you arrive late to a show in Paris, they’ll make you wait outside until the next intermission, so don’t be late!
2. Enjoy the Food
Paris has some of the best food in the world, with many of the world’s best restaurants dotted around this stunning city. However, it’s often the simple things that are just done a little better in Paris. From the way a baguette sings (the sound it makes when you pull the bread apart) to the cheese shops that have cheeses that are actually illegal in the United States! If you’re traveling on a low budget, consider going to a cheese shop, buying an assortment of cheeses, a baguette and a nice bottle of wine and having a picnic. If you want to be ultra touristy, you can of course do this sitting on the grass in front of the Eiffel tower, but there are lots of cute parks sprinkled around Paris if you want something more low key.
3. Do a Cycling Tour
Traveling by bicycle is a great way to see Paris, the drivers are very considerate of cyclists and the roads are well maintained. I decided to do an electric bicycle tour the last time I visited, just so we could cover more ground without exhausting ourselves and to manage the hills well. The tour I did is usually sold out days, if not weeks in advance, so consider booking before you go, especially if you’re going in high season. The company I used was: Paris Charms & Secrets Tours and was a really interesting tour with lots of information I would have not discovered by myself!
4. People Watch
Parisians are so well dressed and have their own style which is unlike anywhere else in Europe. Find a cute cafe with fresh pain au chocolat and enjoy an espresso while watching the diversity of Paris walk past. You’ll notice that casual attire is not really part of a Parisian’s wardrobe!
Paris is always a good idea, use these tips to have a wonderful trip to Paris!