Bon jour! Last weekend the biggest bike race in the world finished on the streets of Paris. Grab your coffee and croissants. Today I am sharing five reasons I love visiting the city of Paris France.
The #1 reason I love visiting Paris – Sites
There is so much to see in Paris. Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, the Louvre, to list just a few examples of the places to see. I could keep going on and on. You are not going to be bored in Paris. There is so much to see and do, and it is a very walkable city.
Reason #2 – Food
Let’s start with a fact – the croissant is France’s greatest contribution to the galaxy. I eat like Louis the King when I am in Paris. Escargot, baguettes, croissants, fromage, and eclairs. Oh my goodness – there is so much tasty food in Paris. Word to the wise, you can spend a lot of money if you are not careful. I recommend eating at cafes.
Reason #3 – green space
Paris has a lot of parks, trees, and green spaces to hang out. Two great examples are the Tuileries near the Louvre and the park by the Eiffel tower. There are many gardens. Even the area near the Arc de Triomphe has green space nearby. I appreciate the fact that the city contains many wonderful places to hang out and enjoy Paris life.
Reason #4 – Cafes
Parisian cafes are legendary. That is because they are so cool. No better way to spend an afternoon than sitting at a cafe, sipping on coffee, eating a pastry, watching Parisian life pass in front of you. I am a big fan of hanging out in cafes and eating there to save money. Cafes are easy to find. They are scattered all over the city.
Reason #5 – Day trips
Many places near Paris are worth visiting. The top of the list for day trips is Versailles. If you have never been there you need to go and check out what Louis the XIV built. It is mind-blowing. Plenty of other choices to include Normandy. Paris is the perfect place to start your adventure in France. High-speed trains connect the city to all parts of France. Spend a few days in the capital city after your long flight over the pond. Then go on a few day trips and enjoy France.
Quick practical tip for visiting Paris
When you walk around you will notice that the French people dress a little better than we do here in America. Avoid standing out as an ugly American. No cut-off jeans or gnarly t-shirts. For heaven’s sake – no crocs and socks. I recommend dressing a little nicer while visiting. Perhaps a polo shirt and some nice shorts.
Three quick questions about visiting Paris
- What is my favorite place to visit in Paris – Eiffel Tower area. Great place to picnic and watch the light show at night.
- What is my favorite site in Paris – St. Chapelle. Built for the King – it is awesome on any sunny day.
- What is my favorite neighborhood in Paris – Rue Cler. Rick Steves recommends it. I agree and stay there.
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.