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Friday Feature: Paris

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Paris

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Paris has captivated the hearts of travelers for a lifetime. The hype was intense… but honestly after walking the beautiful streets of this city, it is easy to see why this place calls so many visitors back time and time again. Spend your days soaking in some culture at the many incredible museums, sipping rosé while people watching in one of the numerous quaint cafes, basking in the Parisian sunshine under the Eiffel Tower, or simply get lost in the fabulous architecture. This city is also incredibly easy to get to with two main international airports – Charles De Gaulle or Orly Airport. Both of which are about 45 minutes from the center of Paris!

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit Paris is from April to June and October to early November when the weather is mild and enjoyable and the tourist crowds are smaller than summer. The cheapest time to visit Paris is early December, January, and February.

Things to do:

Take in the Paris skyline. Most people think that the best view of Paris is from the Eiffel Tower, but what is a Paris skyline without that beauty in the back? That is why we recommend climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe during your stay! This gives you a great vantage point of the city while still getting the Eiffel Tower in the background.

Go for a picnic. Arguably the best place to experience this romantic city is from the park bench or blanket in one of it’s numerous gardens! The lawn of the Eiffel Tower is an obvious choice for first timers. Pro Tip: check out Zia near the Eiffel Tower for incredible picnics to go! Another great spot to enjoy rosé, brie, and people watch is Luxembourg Gardens! For those traveling with kiddos, Luxembourg also has toy boats in it’s fountain for easy entertainment.

Cruise the River Seine. This iconic river takes you past multiple notable sightseeing spots in the city making it a great addition to your Paris itinerary! They also offer cruise tours that include champagne tasting with a sommelier… because what is more romantic than a glass of bubbles on the Seine?!

Get your fill of culture. Paris is full of incredible museums that you will not want to miss! The best option to capitalize on your time? Get a Paris Museum Pass and spend your time museum hopping around the city.

Pick up a souvenir! There is no shortage of fabulous shopping in this city so definitely leave time to explore the various boutiques and department stores. Le Bon Marchè is a great spot to spend a day… and your money. It is also the oldest department store in the world!

Feature Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris, Pavillon de la Reine, Hôtel San Régis

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Restaurants we love…

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  • Chez Georges – charming bistro in the 2 Arr.

  • Les Ombres – amazing French restaurant with arguably the best view of the Eiffel Tower, especially at night

  • Cafe de Flore – long-running coffeehouse & celebrity hot spot serving French fare in a charming corner cafe

  • Cafe Central – charming French cafe located on Rue Cler, close to the Eiffel Tower

  • L’Avenue – cozy French restaurant located in the 8 Arr.

  • La Fontaine de Mars – casual local French spot serving an amazing crème brûlée à la vanille

  • Pierre Hermé – great spot for authentic macaroons

  • L’Éclair – cozy cocktail spot in the 7 Arr.

  • Les Papilles – great French restaurant right by the Luxembourg Gardens

  • Artisan Boulanger – great morning spot for a warm croissant and peak of the Eiffel Tower

Follow the adventure!

@explorateurtravel