A long weekend in the Enchanting Capital
Paris, the enchanting capital of France, beckons visitors with its romantic ambiance, rich history, and world-class attractions. Enjoy a long weekend in this wonderful city with this travel guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the City of Love, a long weekend is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this iconic destination. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a delightful itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in Paris.
Day 1: Exploring Iconic Landmarks
Begin your Parisian adventure by visiting the crown jewel of the city – the Eiffel Tower. This iconic structure, standing tall at 330 meters, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. Take the elevator to the top and marvel at the city’s stunning skyline. Capture timeless photos and embrace the romance that fills the air. This is the perfect way to kick off your long weekend in Paris!
Next, stroll along the River Seine and make your way to the Louvre Museum, a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre showcases over 35,000 works of art, spanning thousands of years. Get lost in the maze-like corridors, discovering sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts that will ignite your imagination.
For a taste of Parisian café culture, head to the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre. Climb the steps to the impressive Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a stunning white church perched atop a hill. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, lined with quaint shops and artists’ studios. Indulge in a delicious crêpe or sip on a café au lait while soaking in the artistic vibes of this picturesque neighborhood.
As the day draws to a close, venture to the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire its intricate façade and explore the interior, where sunlight filters through stained glass windows, casting vibrant hues across the nave. If time permits, embark on a sunset river cruise along the Seine, witnessing the city’s landmarks shimmering with golden light.
– Please note Notre-Dame Cathedral is not expected to reopen until December 2024!
Day 2: Immersion in Parisian Culture
Begin your second day with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay, a former railway station turned art museum. Marvel at an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Degas. The museum’s stunning glass-roofed hall provides a captivating setting for art enthusiasts.
For a taste of Parisian elegance, head to the Champs-Élysées. This famous avenue offers a blend of high-end boutiques, trendy cafés, and iconic landmarks. Take a leisurely walk, window-shop at luxury stores, or treat yourself to a macaron at Ladurée. At the western end of the avenue, you’ll find the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for magnificent views of the bustling city below.
Indulge in a quintessential Parisian experience by enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s charming parks. The Jardin des Tuileries, nestled between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, offers the perfect setting. Grab some delicious pastries, a baguette, and a bottle of wine from a local boulangerie, and relax amidst the meticulously manicured gardens.
As the evening approaches, head to the vibrant neighborhood of Le Marais. Known for its trendy shops, art galleries, and lively nightlife, Le Marais is the ideal place to savor a delightful dinner at a local bistro. Try classic French dishes like coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon, paired with a glass of exquisite Bordeaux wine.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Romantic Delights
Start your final day in Paris with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This bohemian enclave has been a haven for artists, writers, and intellectuals for centuries. Explore the quaint streets lined with bookstores, cafés, and art galleries. Don’t miss the legendary Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, iconic establishments that were once frequented by famous literary figures.
For a serene and romantic experience, visit the enchanting Luxembourg Gardens. There are a wealth of ways to enjoy a long weekend in Paris and this is another one. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere, strolling through beautifully manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and tree-lined promenades. Rent a traditional wooden sailboat and navigate it on the pond, embracing the tranquility of this idyllic setting.
In the afternoon, discover the hidden gem of Paris – the Canal Saint-Martin. This picturesque waterway offers a different perspective of the city, away from the usual tourist hotspots. Take a leisurely boat ride or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the canal’s banks. Explore the trendy boutiques, art studios, and charming cafés that line its shores.
As the sun sets, embark on a romantic evening cruise on the Seine River. Admire the illuminated bridges and landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre, casting their enchanting reflections on the water. Raise a glass of champagne as you toast to a memorable weekend in the City of Love.
Concluding a long weekend in Paris
A long weekend in Paris is an enchanting journey through history, art, and romance. From iconic landmarks to hidden treasures, the city offers a myriad of experiences that will captivate your heart and soul. Embrace the Parisian way of life, savoring delicious cuisine, strolling along picturesque streets, and immersing yourself in the city’s cultural riches. Let Paris weave its magic and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why not feed your wanderlust further and check out my Andalusia: 5 Incredible cities to visit in Spain’s beautiful south and remember to travel for as long as you wish.
About the writer
Mark James Murphy is an artist, teacher, adventurer and writer. He was born in Sunderland, North-East England in the early 1980s. He has solo travelled extensively throughout the world and in 2017 decided to leave behind his job and apartment in the UK to teach English in Vietnam, South East Asia, for almost five years, describing it as the best moments of his life so far.
There he also continued developing his practice as an artist and printmaker, documenting his travels through the medium of linocut.
In 2019 he fulfilled a childhood dream when he backpacked for two months throughout the whole of India, ending up in a remote village in the Himalayan foothills. He has played football with local kids in the Sahara desert, lived with Hmong people high in the mountains of North Vietnam and worked as a farmhand in Southern Spain. Mark is currently based in his native north-east England.
For more travel tips and memoirs from Mark’s own experiences on the road check out his ebook: Travel For As Long As You Wish: The Blueprint For Budget Travel, Backpacking And Escaping The Rat Race.
A long weekend in Paris sounds like such a good idea. The Luxembourg garden looks beautiful.
Yes I agree, thank you!