With another train ride to Paris coming up soon, I was reminded of my first adventure in this lively city- and I wanted to share it with you! A few months ago, my host family gave me the opportunity to spend five days in Paris. Exploring Paris was a bucket-list dream come true. As someone from South Africa, my idea of Paris consisted largely of things like the best pastries in the world, romantic walks along the Seine and must-visit tourist spots. Join me as I reflect on my first experience with Parisian culture and share a simple travel guide to Paris.

Art & Culture In Paris

Parisians are a lively and passionate people. They express themselves freely and especially through fashion. They deeply value their social culture. It is common there to start the day with breakfast on a café terrace and to dine with friends as late as 11pm! Many also value taking part in healthy activities, like running clubs along the Seine. The city in itself is picturesque, with Haussmann-style buildings, small streets and lush greenery in select areas.

Paris is home to many museums and galleries, showcasing artworks from world-renowned artists of older generations. During my visit, I explored the Louvre Museum where I was truly captivated by Venetian renaissance paintings, Italian sculptures and jewelry collections belonging to French royalty. I recommend booking museum tickets in advance- even during winter as Paris is busy year round. It will take 3-4 hours to fully explore the Louvre.

For those who love Impressionist art, Museum de l’Orangerie is a must visit. It features many of Monet’s works. If you are interested in contemporary art, 59 Rivoli is an interesting gallery. Here you can experience artworks from the local Parisian artists.

Details Of My Trip

I took a two hour train from Yvetot Station in Normandy to Paris Saint-Lazare, which is directly connected to the Metro. I stayed in an apartment in the 16^th arrondissement. An arrodissement is a district of Paris. They were designed to modernize the layout of Paris in the 19^th century. There are 20 arrondissements in total. Something that the locals know well is that each arrondissement has a unique atmosphere and style. My itinerary was filled with attractions, bakeries and restaurants- allowing me to truly experience most of the city’s arrondissements in 5 days.  

Exploring Paris By Arrondissement

The 16th & 17th Arrondissements

My first day I explored the peaceful 16^th arrondissement. It is a district known for a slower pace, focused on family and containing elegant residential streets. Here you will find a magnificent viewpoint of the Eiffel Tower called Place du Trocadero. There’s also a garden below Trocadero where you can walk towards the base of the Eiffel tower. The Eiffel Tower is breathtaking and in the evening it sparkles from dusk at the start of every hour till 11:45pm. If you are on a budget, I would say that it isn’t necessary to buy a ticket to go up the tower as there are plenty of stunning view points from the ground.

The 1st & 2nd Arrondissements

If you are interested in exploring the cultural history of Paris, the 1^st and 2^nd arrondissements are a must-visit. You’ll find landmarks like the Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Palais Royal and Jardin des Tuileries- a perfect spot for an afternoon walk.

A favorite foodie highlight of mine was waiting in queues to try a pastry from Cedric Grolet Opera. It is a Patisserie owned by a French pastry chef famous for creating deserts that resemble the fruit they are made from. The pastries were as intricate as they were tasty! If you want to visit this Patisserie I recommend arriving before 9 am to avoid long queues. If you want a true Parisian pastry experience it is better to go to one of the many local boulangeries or patisseries, where you will find delicious treats at better prices.

The 8th & 9th Arrondissements

On my third day I set out to see the Arc du Triomphe, a huge arc that was commissioned by Napoleon in 1805. It was only after my trip that I realized that there are tickets sold to access the rooftop for a beautiful view of Paris. On the same street as Arc du Triomphe you will find Champs-Elysees which is a long shopping street akin to avenue Louise in Brussels. The 9^th arrondissement is known for shopping because of a grand shopping mall called Galaries Lafayette. Though I did not splurge my money here, walking around and seeing the architecture was an experience in itself.

The 3rd & 4th Arrondissements

The highlights of these districts include the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the vibrant food scene. You can find areas like Saint-Michel. A lively area lined with small restaurants, bakeries and boutique stores. This area is popular among the students of Paris. It is also the perfect place to try the delicious local Crepes. Crepes Sucre are traditionally a French delicacy that in South Africa we would consider a pancake with sweet fillings. There are savory options too, called galettes.

The 18th Arrondissement

On my fourth day, I explored Montmartre, a district known for its artistic soul.  In the 18^th arrondissement you can find the Sacre-Coeur Basilica as well as the Moulin Rouge cabaret. The Sacre-Coeur can be explored inside and there is also a terraced slope where you can sit that overlooks the entire city. Surrounding the Sacre-Coeur is the neighborhood of Montmartre where you can find street artists who offer to sketch your portrait and well priced restaurants with open-air seating.

I also discovered the Wall of Love. A mural where the phrase ‘I love you’ is written 311 times in 250 languages.

Practical Tips For A Trip

Paris is abounding with sights to see and culture to experience. To make the most out of your trip,  I would suggest creating an itinerary with arrondissements and attractions that interest you most. My personal favorites were Place du Trocadero, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Notre Dame, Louvre Museum and Jardin des Tuileries.  

Practical Information:

1. Make reservations for restaurants in advance. Parisian restaurants are always busy and walk-in spots have long queues.
2. Pack comfortable shoes. I walked an average on 15 000-20 000 steps per day.
3. Pack a rain coat if you are visiting in Autumn. The weather is cold and there are unexpected rainfalls.  
4. Be aware of pickpockets on the Metro. Paris is safe for solo-travelers, but avoid going out late at night.
5. Use the Bonjour RATP app. It is a useful app when using the metro in Paris.
6. Learn basic French phrases. It helps when interacting with locals and reading signage.
7. Budget wisely. Save money by avoiding expensive shopping areas and tourist traps.
8. Restaurant recommendations: Bouillon Chartier, La Boheme, Bouillon Pigalle, Le Moulin de la Galette.
9. Bakery Recommendations: Mamiche, Thevine, Cedric Grolet

Conclusion

Paris exceeded my expectations in so many ways. From the lively streets of Montmartre to the peaceful strolls along the Seine. It truly is a city like no other and you have to experience it at least once in your life. If you are planning to visit Paris, take your time. Explore beyond the tourist spots and immerse yourself in the Parisian culture.

Feel free to connect with me on social media. I would love to hear your personal Parisian stories or answer any questions!

"And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed"- Deuteronomy 31:8