A trip to Paris would not be complete without delectable French cuisine, strolls along the River Seine and the bucket list Eiffel Tower snapshot. As cliché as it can seem, Paris has not lost its sophisticated charm and continues to entire more visitors year after year. Whether you’re visiting the city for a romantic weekend or exploring the culture, Paris has got it all.
Thinking about booking a weekend away in the French capital? Find out how you can make the most of your visit to the city in just 48 hours.
Soak up the culture
Paris is famed for its array of museums and art galleries. It is home to some of the most celebrated artworks of all time, including; da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Van Gogh’s Self Portrait and Impression, Sunrise by French painter, Claude Monet. A trip to Paris would almost be incomplete without coming face to face with the paintings and sculptures that have helped to inspire and share the future of modern art.
The Louvre is without a doubt Paris’ most well-known museum. With the glass pyramid in the centre of the grounds an iconic symbol of the city. This is just one of the reasons why it’s one of Paris’ most visited attractions. So, it’s important to book ahead, as the queues to get to the ticket office can span the length of the vast museum. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of getting in front of the Mona Lisa (which can be a challenge in itself) head over to the lesser known galleries such as; the Musee de Montmatre, or Musee Marmottan Monet for a more intimate experience, and get up-close-and-personal with some famous artwork.
Shop until you drop
If art isn't your thing but you still want to experience true Parisian charm, then shop ‘til you drop in one of the world’s fashion capitals. Paris is the birthplace of some of the most important names in fashion, including Givenchy, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Head over to Rue St Honore where you’ll find fashion brand heaven, one of the best shopping streets in Paris. If you’re looking for more high street brands, take a walk to one of Paris’ best-known streets, Avenue des Champs Elysees, which is home to stores such as GAP and Zara.
Not everyone is into their high-end fashion. Paris is also crammed full of small boutiques where you can pick up a bargain, vintage piece, or purchase anything from books to handmade French cheeses. You will be spoilt for choice when walking the streets of Paris, just make sure you save some room in your suitcase to transport your purchases!
Food for thought
If there’s one thing France is renowned for, it’s the delicious food! Think fresh artisan bread from local bakeries, sumptuous desserts and traditional cuisine that tempts the more daring food taster.
The city is filled with family-run bistros and modern eateries that suit all palates. Whether you’re adventurous with your food tastes or prefer to keep things simple, there’s something for you on a French menu. French cuisine is typically cooked from fresh, so you can be sure you’re getting great quality with locally sourced produce.
When in France, sample out-of-this-world Chateaubriand or perhaps keep it traditional and try out a real Soupe a I’oignon. Whatever you choose, be sure to leave some space for their mouth-watering desserts. Chefs from around the world aspire to try their hand at intricate pastry skills in the city, so it’s no wonder that Parisian desserts are some of the best in the world. Fluffy soufflé, light buttery pastries or creamy crème brulee, there’s no limit to the list of amazing desserts that await.
Top spots to visit in Paris
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Arc de Triomphe
- Moulin Rouge
- Sacre-Coeur
