Why Paris Was One of My Favorite Trips
I had an amazing time in Paris! Sure, some people might complain about it—sometimes just for attention—but with good planning and an open mind, it can be one of the best trips you’ll ever take.
My husband and I were lucky to have a local friend guide us, which made the experience even more special. We saw the famous sights, but we also got insider tips that made our trip unforgettable.
Here’s what we loved (plus suggestions from other Paris fans!). Trust me, these will make your trip way better.
Opéra Garnier
- Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
- I had no idea what to expect, but it blew me away.
- This stunning opera house (opened in 1875) feels like stepping into a movie—in fact, it inspired Phantom of the Opera.
- Perfect for admiring the grand interiors and soaking in the vibe.
Have a French Breakfast
- Simple but delicious: coffee, fresh bread from a boulangerie, jam, and butter.
- Our friend woke us up early for this “authentic experience”—totally worth it.
- Pro tip: Grab extra pastries to try with your coffee!
Paris’ Little Tokyo
- A charming neighborhood with fantastic Japanese food.
- We loved the ramen at Hakata Choten and the sweets at a nearby bakery.
Galeries Lafayette
- Great for shopping, architecture, and rooftop views of the Eiffel Tower.
- The stained-glass dome is breathtaking.
- Perfect spot for a coffee break after exploring.
Panthéon
- A must for history lovers—modeled after Rome’s Pantheon.
- Houses the remains of famous French figures (like Joan of Arc).
- The paintings and architecture are incredible.
Eat at Holybelly
- Amazing food and super friendly service.
- The owner makes everyone feel welcome—even better than Trader Joe’s!
- Highly recommend for breakfast.
Walk Around Montmartre
- Spend a few hours here, whether visiting Sacré-Cœur or just wandering.
- Full of cute shops, great food, and beautiful streets.
- Dinner tip: La Brasserie Thaï is delicious!
Night Walks by the Seine
- Peaceful, romantic, and magical with the city lights.
- Our friend took us from the Seine to the Louvre—unforgettable.
More Local Favorites
- Saint-Sulpice: Free art tours (Sundays after mass), stunning church with Delacroix paintings.
- Place des Vosges: Beautiful square with cafés, history (Victor Hugo lived here!), and live music.
- Flea Markets: St. Ouen (huge!) or Vanves (smaller but charming).
Pastry Sampling
- Eat pastries daily—France does them best!
- Either research top picks or just walk into any pâtisserie and pick what looks good.
The Catacombs
- Spooky but fascinating (one visitor’s tour got even creepier during a power outage!).
Notre Dame
- Absolutely worth it—the stained glass and Gothic architecture are stunning.
- The surrounding neighborhood is also fun to explore.
Just Explore!
- Walk everywhere—you’ll discover hidden gems, cute cafés, and beautiful streets.
- Skip rigid checklists and enjoy the city at your own pace.
- As locals say: “Paris is about relaxing, discovering, and falling in love with the unexpected.”
