Why You Need to Visit Paris and Explore the City of Lights
The City of Lights, Paris, is a popular tourist attraction every year, drawing in tens of millions of visitors. This city is a must-see for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a unique culture and learn about its fascinating history.
My family and I recently set out on a trip to the City of Love, Paris. We luxuriated in the city's charms for four days. We ventured through all the renowned tourist attractions that captivate millions of visitors, such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe.So, join me as I recount our adventure in Paris, complete with insider knowledge, a comprehensive travel guide, and helpful tips to make the most of your own trip to this enchanting destination.
Let’s get into it.
Paris - The City of Love and Lights
Paris has a storied past that stretches back over two millennia. From its humble beginnings as a Roman settlement to becoming the capital of France, the city has witnessed significant historical events. It has been the epicenter of the French Revolution, a hub for Enlightenment thinkers, and a city that has shaped the world of art, literature, and philosophy.
Exploring Paris means delving into its fascinating history, from visiting the Louvre to walking in the footsteps down the av de Champs-Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe.
Day 1: Exploring the Louvre Museum
Our adventure began at the Louvre, a grand masterpiece itself. It was 8 o'clock when we left for the visit, as we booked for 9 am, and I consider that to be rather early. In retrospect, getting there early was the smart move, as the museum was already packed with people waiting in long lines.
About Louvre
The Louvre Museum, originally a medieval fortress, has transformed over the years into a cultural institution of global significance. It welcomes about 2.8 million visitors annually who come to admire its treasures and explore its artistic heritage. And it's more surprising to know that the number rose to around 10 million annual visitors in 2018.
The history of the Louvre dates back to the 12th century when it was constructed as a fortress by Philip II. It underwent numerous transformations throughout the centuries, including the addition of the iconic glass pyramid entrance in the 1980s. The Louvre served as a royal residence until Louis XIV moved the court to Versailles, after which it was converted into a public museum during the French Revolution.
You can have a guided tour once you enter the museum, but my wife and I always take self-guided tours as they give us a bit more freedom of time and everything else.
Arrival at The Louvre
As we approached the majestic museum, its impressive architecture left us in awe. The Louvre is not only the largest museum in the world but also a historic monument that holds centuries of stories within its walls.
The Magnificence of the Louvre
Stepping inside the Louvre, we were welcomed by the grandeur of its vast collection. The museum houses over 38,000 artworks, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces. The Louvre's sheer size can be overwhelming, but we were eager to embark on this artistic journey. We started our tour of the museum with the use of self-guided maps, which we reviewed in order to get our bearings.
Awe-Inspiring Artwork and Sculptures
Walking through the museum, we encountered countless masterpieces that evoked a sense of wonder.
From the delicate strokes of renowned paintings to the intricate details of sculptures, each piece spoke its own language. It was an incredible opportunity to witness the evolution of art throughout history.
Major Artworks
The Louvre boasts an exceptional collection of masterpieces from various periods and civilizations. Some of the most famous artworks housed within its walls include the enigmatic Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Other notable artworks include the Venus de Milo, an ancient Greek sculpture, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, a striking marble statue from ancient Greece.
Getting Lost in the Rich History
As we ventured deeper into the Louvre, we found ourselves immersed in the rich history of different cultures. The museum's extensive collection allowed us to travel through time, from Egyptian artifacts to Greek and Roman antiquities. Exploring the Louvre was like unraveling the threads of history and witnessing the marvels of human creativity.
The Iconic Mona Lisa
No visit to the Louvre would be complete without seeing this most famous painting in the world – the enigmatic Mona Lisa. The area was much more busy than the rest of the museum. We joined a crowd of admirers, patiently waiting for our turn to catch a glimpse of her elusive smile. The moment we looked at her, it felt like time stood still. The Mona Lisa's allure and mystique are truly unparalleled.
After nearly two hours, our tour of the Louvre ended here. We can't possibly see everything in the museum in a single day; it's simply too big. Walked Down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe
After leaving The Louvre, we stepped onto the Avenue des Champs-Elysees to see the Arc de Triomphe. This legendary street in the heart of Paris has long been hailed as one of the world's most prestigious and vibrant avenues. With the iconic Arc de Triomphe standing proudly at its western end, the Avenue des Champs-Elysees stretches before you like a majestic ribbon, inviting you to discover its countless wonders.
Luxury shopping and fashion on the Avenue
The Avenue des Champs-Elysees is a byword for high style and lavish lifestyles. We were just strolling along when we decided to stop and look in some of the upscale shops that lined the street. The Boulevard is a shopper's dream, lined with stores selling everything from high-end clothing to designer jewelry. It was a visual delight to see the latest fashions on show in such beautifully designed window displays.
Culinary highlights
In addition to the renowned establishments, the Avenue des Champs-Elysees also offers hidden culinary gems. From charming patisseries serving delectable pastries to cozy wine bars offering a selection of the finest French wines, there's something to suit every palate.
The Arc de Triomphe
Finally, after hours of walking, we started seeing the clear view of Arc De Triomphe. Standing proudly at the western end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of France's military triumphs. Built-in the 19th century, this grand monument honors those who fought and died for France. After ascending 248 stairs, you'll reach the top of the Arc de Triomphe, where you'll have an aerial view of the city.
Day 2 - Eiffel Tower Visit
The next day, we set off to explore another iconic symbol of Paris – the majestic Eiffel Tower. Its towering presence dominates the city's skyline, beckoning visitors from near and far. The elevators were all full, and using the stairs wasn't an option because of the wasted energy it would lead us to expend.
About Effiel Tower
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the world's most recognizable and iconic landmarks. This towering structure holds architectural significance and cultural and historical importance. Standing tall at the heart of Paris, the Eiffel Tower attracts millions of visitors each year, offering breathtaking views of the city and captivating the imagination of people from all walks of life. The construction of the Eiffel Tower began in 1887 and took just over two years to complete. Gustave Eiffel, along with a team of engineers, architects, and workers, undertook the ambitious project. They used advanced engineering techniques of the time, including assembling prefabricated parts, to erect the tower. The tower's framework consists of over 18,000 individual iron pieces held together by more than 2.5 million rivets. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world. It also held the record for being the tallest tower until the completion of the Tokyo Skytree in 2010.
Accessibility
The Eiffel Tower is easily accessible by public transportation, including metro, bus, and RER. You can take the stairs or use the elevators to reach the different levels of the tower. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A Dreamlike Experience
Our visit to Paris was like stepping into a dream. The enchanting ambiance, the rich history, and the artistry embedded in every street and landmark left an indelible mark on our hearts. Paris is a city that embraces you, making you feel like a part of its vibrant tapestry.
So plan your visit without giving it a second thought.
