A view along the Seine
View of the carnival from the Louvre
Remember that one time when I went to Europe? Me either. It honestly seems like it was 3 years ago when in reality we hopped on a plane just 3 short months ago. It was my first time in Europe, and I can honestly say I was blown away. We were fortunate enough to spend four days in Paris, followed by four in Barcelona and it was hands-down the best vacation of my life.
I'm so excited to finally be able to share our favorite sights & eats with you in both cities, selfishly because it allowed me to relive our vacation in all of it's glory. It was scary how many things I had already forgotten! Without further adieu, below is a full recap of everything we saw & (most importantly) ate while in Paris. Keep your eyes peeled for a Barcelona recap, coming to a blog near you!
Stunning architecture on the outside of the Louvre
To See & Experience:
- Louvre - The husband & I aren't big art fans, but I'm so glad we didn't pass up the Louvre. Even if you don't go inside, the architecture alone is a masterpiece. Walk around the grounds and marvel, then walk through the gardens and enjoy the view of the distant Eiffel Tower.
- Arc de Triomphe - At the end of a busy (& overrated) Champs Elysees, lies the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for a gorgeous view of the city that rivals the view from the top of the Eiffel Tower - you'll spend way less time waiting in line too!
- Luxembourg Gardens - Do yourself a favor and get lost in the Luxembourg Gardens, they are absolutely beautiful and oh so Parisian.
- Rue de St. Honore - Whenever anyone asks about our trip to Paris, I tell them about this street. It lined with upscale shops and therefore is also lined with the best dressed people I've ever seen. Stop over after you visit the Louvre (it's close!) and people watch until you can't anymore.
- Colette - A high end concept store on Rue de St. Honore. Go and drool over all the designer product and spot the aforementioned cool people in their natural habitat.
- Merci - A concept store & cafe all in one. The space is absolutely adorable and you'll find on-trend apparel, home goods and plenty of non-corny souvenirs. Don't forget to take a picture of the signature entrance for all your instagram likes.
- Palais Royal - Located near the Louvre, Palais Royal is a combination of stunning gardens and unique architecture. Go in the morning when it's quiet, you'll feel like you have the place to yourself.
- Canal Saint-Martin - We spent a very Parisian afternoon sitting along this canal, taking in the scenery & getting to see the lock bridge in action, which is surprisingly more interesting then it sounds.
- Norte Dame Cathedral - A key landmark of the city, Notre Dame is not to be missed. The history and architecture is both humbling and incredible.
A view at the Luxembourg Gardens
To Eat:
- Candelaria - It's impossible for me to go to a new city and not get tacos, even in Paris. Candelaria might look like a complete hole in the wall, but the food is great and the service matches. After dinner, go through the back door that leads to a dimly lit, ultra cool bar.
- HolyBelly - With a menu that updates monthly, this is a great spot to indulgence in brunch if you're craving something more substantial then a croissant. Don't forget to stop by the juice bar next door after your done.
- Eggs & Co.- This is a must for brunch. The portions are unbelievably huge, the food is beyond delicious and the decor is charming. That's what I call the trifecta.
- Cafe La Favorite - Grab a seat outside and enjoy their wine & meat plate with a glass of wine, of course.
- Berthillon - A delicious Gelato shop tucked away in walking distance from Notre Dame. Grab a come, walk a few minutes to the Seine & enjoy the view.
- Artisan - A great 1920's inspired bar with a small plate menu that is perfect to share. Stop by after dinner for a nightcap.
- Opium - It was my husband's birthday while in Paris, so we looked up the best oysters in the city and were not disappointed. It's a small, intimate setting where the service is impeccable & the oysters are fresh. Don't forget to order champagne!
- Carette - We stopped here for a traditional French breakfast on one of our last mornings in the city. Sit outside and enjoy the quiet view of the park across the street. Clearly we missed out on the macaroons though, which all the reviews online rave about.
- Amorino - Run, do not walk to Amorino and order the biggest Gelato you can possibly handle. I'm an ice cream fanatic, and this is best I have ever had. We went twice in 4 days.
- Gérard Mulot - Indulge your inner#basic parisian and pick up macaroons from this bakery.
Another view from the Luxembourg Gardens, they did not disappoint
The Eiffel Tower at night
