the European Capital of Culture in Paris, France - 24-Hour Travel Guide
Eiffel Tower
Notre Dame
Cafe culture
Overview - Paris, the city of light, is one of Europe’s most popular and romantic destinations, perfect for a weekend getaway or a weeklong jaunt.
Breakfast - Enjoy coffee and brunch at Café Thés Verlet (256 rue Saint-Honoré). You can even take some beans home with you – and trust me, you will want to relive this experience as often as possible.
Morning - All morning can easily be spent in the Louvre, arguably the world’s most important and impressive art museums. Not only impressive from the outside – from its expansive length to the iconic glass triangle in its courtyard. Most visitors will want to see the Mona Lisa (and the hordes of tourists around here) or the Venus de Milo, but do not forget to see The Winged Victory or the remains of the Louvre’s medieval dungeon.
Lunch - Finish off your Louvre experience with lunch at Café Manly (93 Rue de Rivoli) which is practically in the Louvre itself. Admire the views of the courtyard and the pyramid.
Afternoon - Two churches in the center of town are the afternoon’s must-sees. The gothic Notre Dame is well known and its gloomy interior requires no explanation as to its fame. Nearby though is the unassuming Sainte Chapelle. On the ground floor you will find what appears to be just a typical church, but upstairs is a room surrounded by some of the most stunning stained glass windows you will ever see. Spend the rest of the afternoon admiring the work of artists selling on the streets in the area or just walking along the banks of the Seine.
Dinner - Just behind the Notre Dame one can find a tiny island called Ile Saint Louis. You will find a number of wonderful Parisian restaurants along the main road, Rue Saint-Louis.
After Dark - Experience luxury like no other at the Bar Hemingway, in the Ritz Hotel (Paris 15, Place Vendôme). Five star service in a classy setting – it is worth it even if just for one drink. Then head on the metro to the Trocadéro stop where you will find the perfect viewing platform to see the Eiffel Tower lit at night.
Sleep - A relatively central location and cheap price can be found at Etap Hotel (multiple locations, go for 57, Avenue Jean Jaurès).
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