Very few words are capable of describing the magic of the City of Light. From the quaint crêperies to charming boulangeries, cobblestoned streets to iconic landmarks, Paris is a wonderland full of adventures to discover. Of course, there are certain things you simply must experience because you’re in Paris, even if they are tourist traps. Once you’ve grown tired of the Eiffel Tower and don’t want to spend another moment looking at paintings in the Louvre, however, you won’t want to miss these five must-see things in the French capital!
Wander the Pedestrian Streets
The pedestrian streets of Paris are perhaps the best place to experience what Paris must have been like 200 years ago. From the neighborhood fruit market to bustling bistros and cafes, certain streets in Paris ooze the charm and excitement that makes Paris so unique! Notable examples include Rue Montorgueil and Rue Mouffetard.
Experience French Bohemia Near Canal St. Martin
Perhaps one of the best-known characteristics of Paris, the city has long been associated with the arts. Several neighborhoods of the city embody this artistic spirit. One of the most picturesque local spots is the neighborhood surrounding the famed Canal St. Martin. With it’s quirky cafés and offbeat boutiques, this area in the 10th and 11th arrondissements showcases some of the best parts of life in the capital.
Check out the City Skyline
While taking a trek to the top of the Eiffel Tower has long been heralded as the best way to see Paris, many tourists find that the most iconic part of the city is missing when they get to the top! Indeed, the very best view of Paris is one that includes the Eiffel Tower! Why not visit the Montparnasse Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Europe? The restaurant at the Pompidou Center, the Parisian modern art museum, also offers a spectacular view.
Experience a True Picnic, Paris-Style
What is one to do with all of that cheese, bread, and wine? Why, eat it of course! Paris has no shortage of quaint parks and gardens where one can spend some time soaking up the sun with the locals. From famous locales like the Luxembourg Gardens to lesser-known spots like the Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge by the Louvre, you’re sure to find a comfy spot somewhere!
Shop in a Pop-Up Market
If you’re looking to really immerse yourself in French culture, no place is better than one of the markets that spring up on the Parisian streets out of nowhere every week. From fresh foods to ancient antiques, and everything in between, markets are a great place to meet the French and experience some of the delicacies of the land. The market on Avenue de Saxe in the 7th arrondissement is a great stop on Thursdays and Saturdays, and the legendary “Les Puces” flea market is a true experience any weekend!
Darren has various interests, reading as much books as possible on his Kindle, writing on the topic of free people search and so on. Hope this article has been helpful and you’ll find it pretty useful when visiting Paris. Image by Nimages DR
