Seven Best Things to do When Visiting Paris, France
I went to Paris on a solo trip and explored most of what I wanted to see in a short 24 hours. I don’t suggest jamming everything in though, it’s doable but can feel rushed. Plus, if I had more time, I would have been able to see a lot more and enjoy some of the destinations more. I was able to squeeze in six must-sees when traveling to Paris. Plus, I was able to add in a unique adventure too (6+1=7 must-see spots). I felt very safe in Paris being by myself and enjoyed the culture and presence that Paris had to offer.
What made it so easy to see all of Paris in 24 hours, was getting a metro pass. You can get them at any metro station and fill in the amount accordingly. The guest service woman at my hotel also gave me all the info I needed to get a metro pass. Don’t hesitate to ask those who work in a hotel or hostel, they know the city better than Google! I was able to get a two-day unlimited pass that ended up being perfect for me. Then on Google, I would just find the destination of where I was going and the closest train or metro symbol. I’d click on that symbol and that was the station I had to get to. It made for a super easy and very seamless 24 hours. If you are confused or need any other information on it, I would suggest visiting this website for a quick overview.
The Hotel I stayed in was Hotel Splendid. I loved it because it was a good hotel and at a discounted price. I was solo traveling and on quite a budget. I didn’t feel comfortable doing a hostel by myself but didn’t want to spend too much on a room for just a quick night’s sleep. This was my first solo trip and I hadn’t experienced hostels at this time. Looking back, hostels are made for solo travelers and are very safe in Europe! In other news, This hotel was perfect, the staff was truly amazing, and the best part was being able to see the Eiffel Tower from my hotel window. It was simply perfect.
Best Things to Do When Visiting Paris
A must see and a major classic is obviously: Eiffel Tower
I loved the Eiffel Tower. Since I was traveling solo I just had a nice break in the park near the Eiffel Tower and enjoyed the view of it. I would suggest though if you are traveling with a significant other or some friends, grab a bottle of wine, and some cheese, and go during golden hour/sunset. That way you get the feel of the daytime Eiffel Tower but can also stay to see it lit up at night. I didn’t get a chance to see it at night and I regret it. I did though, buy a ticket to climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower. I would suggest this over going to the top of the Arc de Triumph. The views here were truly incredible. If you are traveling to Paris in the summer, make sure to book the tickets in advance as the tours sell out quickly. Here is the link to schedule your tour and tickets are 25 euro for an adult and if you want to go to the summit, which I would suggest doing. You can go to the top of the arc as well but if on a budget I would choose the Eiffel Tower.
Closest Metro stop: Bir-Hakeim
View from the Eiffel Tower
Arc de Triomphe
I wasn’t expecting this to be one of my favorite things I saw in Paris. I was surprised at how big it was. I remember I did end up taking a taxi for this because like I said, I was crunched for time. The only thing about getting to the arc is that you have to cross a 12-lane round about. I don’t remember any walking lights either, so please be careful. You can also climb to the top of the arc like with the Eiffel but I decided to save my money as I was recommended that the view from the Eiffel is better. If you do find yourself having extra time, walk down Paris Ave to Champs-Elysees which is one of the world’s most impressive shopping areas.
Closest Metro Stop: Charles de Gaulle Etoile station
Louvre Museum
The Louvre was the most beautiful site in Paris, I know I keep saying that but Paris in general is just so beautiful. I didn’t think I was going to like it more than the Eiffel Tower, but I ended up loving it. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to see the Mona Lisa. If you are time-crunched like I was, I suggest grabbing a sandwich to go and eating lunch in the peaceful gardens. If you looking at the Louvre, go to the left, and you will find the gardens to relax in, I could have stayed in the gardens all day long. If you are wanting to check out the Mona Lisa I would suggest booking your tickets in advance as I’m sure, especially in the summer, it books up quickly. Check out the website to buy your tickets here.
Closest metro stop: The Palais-Royal
Pont Des Arts or the infamous Love Lock Bridge
Now this is a classic and something I definitely wanted to see before they took it down. Whether its still there when you visit, I definitely suggest going to the bridge anyways. It had a beautiful view of the city and of the Eiffel Tower. The bridge name is Pont Des Arts and it is actually walking distance from the Louvre Museum. Since I was on a solo trip, no I did not participate in adding a key lock. I would suggest going during sunset and thank me later.
Closest Metro Stop: Pont Neuf
Notre Dame Cathedral
This cathedral is described as the best display of French Gothic Architecture. For me, I just enjoyed the views from the outside. The architecture is so gorgeous and unlike anything I have ever seen. You can go into the cathedral for free and if you want to go to the top and get amazing views of the city it would be 10 euros.
Closest Metro Stop: Cité
Grand Palais
Like I said probably way too much in this blog, I was short on time so I didn’t get to experience as much of this building as I would have liked. I highly suggest at least checking it out at night. It was so beautiful with its lights shining in the globe of the building. It is a beautiful museum with art exhibitions and is free to enter. If you are wanting to do a conference tour it would be 7 Euros. It also holds many various events throughout the year like an ice rink for Christmas.
Closest Metro Stop: Champs-Elysées-Clémenceau station
My unique sightseeing MUST when visiting Paris is going to La Rue Cremieux street
It was the cutest, most colorful, well-designed, and very clean street in Paris. It definitely will give you those Instagram-worthy artsy pics! I also was just in awe of all the beautiful colors of the homes. You don’t have to spend too much time here but if you think of yourself as a fun Instagram influencer, visiting this street is a nonnegotiable. I unfortunately was traveling solo and was a subpar photographer at the time so I don’t have any cute selfies. You best believe I will be back with my fiancé, aka my favorite photographer.
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