Paris, by many known as the city of love. And well frankly, there is no wonder why. These cozy inner streets in combination with the allure of the French, breathe romance. With many intriguing districts- in Paris referred to as arrondissements- to discover, here is how to make the most of 24 hrs.
Macarons at Ladurée
Colorful hand crafted goodness, a.k.a. macarons. These small heavenly bites are available in every colour of the rainbow. And, originating from France, it are the French that make them best. Specifically at Ladurée. What started out as a single store in 1842 has grown in to a worldwide brand selling over 15.000 macarons a day. Because yes, they’re that good. Ladurée has eight locations in the centre of Paris, each store maintaining their own historical features.
A small box of 6 macarons at Ladurée will cost you $21.6 (€17.10).
Click here to find a shop near you.
Lunch with a view of the Eiffel Tower
A lunch with a view of the Eiffel Tower is incredibly romantic. However, it is also incredibly expensive. Grab yourself some freshly baked baguettes, creamy paturain and a good bottle of Merlot at any of the nearby supermarkets. Find a good spot to nestle in -believe us, there are tons- and enjoy your city picnic complimented with views that are hard to beat.
A visit the actual Eiffel Tower
So glazing from a distance is one thing. Seeing the actual Eiffel Tower up close is another. Once you’ve finished your lunch. You can crab a subway from basically anywhere that will take you directly to the popular landmark. Paris however is lovely when the sun is out, so going by foot is recommended. And, bonus, you’ll be more likely to encounter unexpected beautiful French architecture along the way.
If you do decide to take public transportion, the prices start from $2.40 (€1.90) for a one-way ticket.
The Louvre Museum
A castle that turned in to a palace, that later transitioned in to one of the best visited museums in the world; the Louvre Museum. Or, better said, Musée du Louvre. Home to the Mona Lisa. With the monumental size and historical features of the building, it is hard to say whether it is the art work or the building that is most impressive. When short on time, choose one of the three main wings to explore on forehand. Its easy to wonder off, for hours, in whichever direction in this incredibly large museum.
A ticket at the door will cost you $18.50 (€15), but best thing to do is to pre-order the tickets online. It avoids the line and guarantees you entree within 30 minutes. Visitors under the age of 18 can go in free of charge, as well as residents of the EU under the age of 25.
The museum is open every day except Tuesday and offers several other exceptions that are granted free entree. Click here to learn more about them.
Galeries Lafayette
Located in the 9th arrondissement, Galeries Lafeyette counts ten floors and has become one of Paris’ most distinguished shopping centre’s since its first opened its doors in 1893. Loved for their extravagant window displays, especially in December, and thousands of luxury brands on offer. But, first and foremost, for the massive stained glass dome that graces the main hall. Build in 1912, it is still floating above dozens of beautifully decorated balconies today, leaving unexpecting shoppers in awe. Don’t forget to make it up to the top floor. The warehouse allows free entrance to their rooftop terrace where visitors get to see the city from a different perspective. After all, you can never get too much good views of Paris.
For opening hours of Galeries Lafayette click here
Wine and dine – Pamela Popo
Dine as the Parisians do. At Pamela Popo located in the Le Marais district, one of the oldest neighborhoods of Paris. Where the charming narrow streets are filled with boutiques, art galleries, bars and restaurants. Each restaurant has their own small front-faced terrace to wine and dine whilst gazing down the streets. Don’t let the French menu scare you, as the waiters are more than willing to help and, no matter what you pick, the food is sublime.
Total costs of our dinner came down to $185 (€150), which included a three-course meal, tip, a bottle of wine and water.
For more information on Pamela Popo click here
*All prices in US dollar as of 24 March’18, converted on xe.com