Paris France; Sightseeing.

Marais neighborhood of Paris.

This is a photo taken from the second floor of the Victor Hugo museum which was, at one time, the home of Victor Hugo. In Paris, the ground floor is the ground floor and the floor above it is first floor and the floor above that is second floor. It is free admission to enter and explore the museum. The square that we are looking down on is Place des Vosges. This square was originally called Place Royal when King Henry IV commissioned it to be built. This was the first square built in Paris ( Place Dauphine was the second). It is located in the Marais neighborhood of Paris and it was completed in July of 1605. Anyway, let’s get into my observations and experiences of Paris France:

Paris wouldn’t be Paris without its iconic rivers, the Seine and Marne. These water bodies aren’t just mere geographical features; they are the heart and soul of this vibrant city. The Seine, gently slicing through the city, often serves as a romantic backdrop in countless stories and photographs, offering a serene contrast to the bustling streets. Meanwhile, the lesser-known Marne meanders through the eastern fringes, providing a quieter retreat from urban life. It was my intention to walk the Seine from The Louvre to where the Seine meets the River Marne. It never happened. Paris is too full of sights and history. I could not escape the city.

Historically, these rivers were crucial in shaping Paris. The Seine has been pivotal since Roman times, grounding the early settlement of what was then known as Lutetia. It wasn’t just about natural beauty; the Seine was a vital trade route, playing a leading role in economic growth and connectivity, linking Paris to other important regions in France and beyond. I did travel the length of the Seine River to the area where the two rivers meet. I had to take the subway. Although I did not have time to walk the distance, I still wanted to make the excursion to see Chateau Vincennes. I brought my family with me and we took Metro Line 1 to the eastern end of its route.

Today, the rivers are as central to Parisian life as they were centuries ago. They offer a landscape where city meets nature, a perfect place for leisure activities like boating, riverside picnics, and long, contemplative walks. The quays, with their charming walkways and historic bridges, pull in both locals and tourists, eager to experience a snapshot of Paris’s everyday rhythm. Alfortville, Charenton, and Bois de Vincennes are where the two rivers meet. It is called “Confluent Marne et Seine.”

In addition to recreation, the Seine is a pulse of creativity, inspiring artists, writers, and musicians. Its banks have become the canvas of dreams, filled with stalls of secondhand booksellers, spaces used for public dancing, sprawling art exhibits, and lively street performances that capture the cultural heartbeat of the city. Since I had to take the subway there rather than my preferred two hour walk, we did not visit the confluence of the rivers or Quai Ferrnand Saguet. Subway line 1 dropped us off on the north side of Bois de Vincennes, where the castle is located so that is the area where we spent our time and ate.

Chateau Vincennes was built around 1365. This was first a fortress and then a royal residence. There was a previous castle here which was commissioned by Louis VII around 1178. King Louis IX (Saint Louis) lived here when he purchased the “Crown Of Thorns” and a piece of the “True Cross” which were kept here until they could be brought tp the royal chapel in Paris. Saint Louis left here for the crusades and never returned. Three French kings; Louis X, Philip V, and Charles IV lived and died there. English King Henry V died here in 1422 of dysentery. 

After the English defeated the French in the Hundred Years War and a couple of uprisings, the fortifications of the grounds, with a large moat, were commissioned by Jean II and Charles V. These are what we see today with the tallest donjon tower in Europe, along with the “sister chapel” to Sainte-Chapelle on Île de Cité.  This Sainte-Chappelle was completed in 1552. 

We spent about four hours at the Chateau Vincennes (13 Euro for adults and free admission for those under 18 years of age). Then we ate at Terminus Chateau Restaurant. The restaurant is very close to the castle, maybe ten minutes of walking. The restaurant is open from 0630 until 0030. The cupola above the dining room is a wonder to behold. It is absolutely beautiful. Rayhend and Reno both had Steak Frites. They agreed that the steaks were OK but the USA does them better. I had the Magret de Canard which I enjoyed very much. Faridas’ burger was just fine but not outstanding. Food prices averaged about 16 Euro so it is not expensive at all. I would rate this restaurant an average three out of five stars and worth the price for the value. 

Understanding Paris’s geography involves embracing this intricate relationship with its rivers. They define the city’s character and continue to nurture its lifeblood, a testament to the city’s ability to beautifully merge history with the present. Bois de Vincennes is the largest park of the Paris metro area. It is so large that it has a lake. There is the Temple of Love overlooking the lake. The lake is called Lac Daumesnil. Emperor Napoleon III created the park. It is a great place to visit. There are also a botanical garden, zoo and arboretum. For reasons I shall not enumerate here, this is STRICTLY a day time location for families to visit.

Paris Through Time: From Roman Conquest to Napoleon III

Paris’s storied past reads like a captivating novel, brimming with epic transformations, power struggles, and cultural upheavals. It all began under the shadow of the Roman Empire when Julius Caesar conquered the small settlement of Lutetia (also called Lutecia Parisiorum)) on the banks of the Seine. What started as a minor outpost rapidly grew in importance, thanks in part to its strategic position along the river, blending classical Roman influences with local Gaulish traditions.

Julius Caesar went to Lutecia to negotiate a truce with the Gallic tribes of the area. He wrote that he found the oppidum (iron age fortification) on an island. That would indicate that he visited what is now known as île de Cité. He also mentioned how the inhabitants there decided to burn their buildings and bridges that crossed two branches of the river that surrounded their island during a later siege of their oppidum. Under the truce that Julius Caesar made with the Gallic tribes (the Parisii), the tribes were subjects to Rome but the tribes rebelled in 52 BCE by joining with Vercingetorix and Camulogenus. Rome, with Caesars’ general, Titus Labienus overcame the Parisii creating a new Roman province. Around the time when Jesus Christ was born, Gaius Augustus Octavius was emperor, and the Romans were building a city there. 

The Arènes de Lutèce is the oldest architectural location in Paris that still exists It was built in the first century CE. It is the third largest colossium in France. It is in the Latin quarter of Paris. My favorite way to arrive there is by walking from the subway stop Place Monge to 47 Rue Monge. There is an arch there with a sculpted helmet and plaque that describes the discovery of ARÈNES DE LVTÈCE and its renovation. The arch and passageway are next to Hôtel des Arènes.. The description  is in French. Anyway,  walk through the passageway, up a few steep steps,  and voila, it will be there spread out before you. It is free of charge, there are neither gates nor security to pass through. 

The medieval era brought about robust fortifications and religious monuments, with the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral starting its rise in the 12th century. This period was marked by growing urbanization and artistic achievements that set Paris on its cultural path. Notre-Dame cathedral was being built by 1163. Abby of Saint-Germain-des-Prés was completed by 1641. It had replaced a Benedictine Abby commissioned by Childebert I that was destroyed by vikings.

Paris was one of the most populated cities of Europe in the middle ages. Gothic architecture was first created here. Saint-Germain-des Prés, Basilica Saint-Denis, and Sainte-Chapelle, built around 1245, are most magnificent examples of early Gothic architecture. We were able to visit Saint-Germain-des-Prés for free because it is still a working church. It has a sculpture by Pablo Picasso on a pedestal in a courtyard area. Sainte-Chapelle, on the other hand is a gutted, former royal chapel that is now a most beloved tourist attraction because of its amazing 15 stained glass windows that fill the church to such an extent that the walls look more like window frames than like walls. This former chapel is a stained glass building. Various biblical scenes are depicted by the stained glass which are probably as large as any other medieval  biblical stained glass scenes anywhere in the world. Tickets to visit Sainte-Chapelle cost 20 Euro. This would be about US $23 (depending on the conversion rate on the day you visit.)

In the the late 18th century, the French Revolution erupted, toppling monarchies and reshaping societal norms. Paris emerged from these turbulent times with a renewed sense of identity. Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign further entrenched its status as a powerhouse, with expansive architectural projects, including the Arc de Triomphe, that stood as testaments to his empire’s might. Walk up to the Arc de Triomphe,  you have to pass through an underground tunnel to do it, and you can read names of battles won and generals who won those battles. Better yet, go to the roof (22 euros during tourism season and 16 euros off season) for an extra- phenomenal view. It is absolutely MY favorite view of Paris. There is a museum up there also.

Under Emperor Napoleon III, the city witnessed an ambitious facelift. With the visionary urban planner Baron Haussmann, old medieval streets gave way to the wide, pedestrian-friendly boulevards we see today (think the Grand Boulevards and Boulevard Rivoli). Whole city blocks of dark, narrow, grimy streets were completely razed and replaced with some of the most beautiful streets in Europe. This massive overhaul not only improved public health and traffic but visually united the city, setting a new standard for urban development.

Throughout these transitions, Paris continuously balanced the old with the new, constructing and reconstructing itself while maintaining a firm grasp on its rich past. This dynamic history is more than just a backdrop; it’s a lived experience that manifests in everyday life, encouraging exploration and appreciation of how the past shapes modern Parisian culture. Although complete medieval neighborhoods were razed, a few Roman and medieval streets still remain as well as a few medieval buildings and Roman ruins. 

Architectural Wonders: Timeless Symbols of Paris’s Grandeur

Paris thrives on its ability to blend history and innovation, nowhere more evident than in its architectural marvels. The cityscape is a testament to its enduring legacy, where iconic structures not only decorate the horizon but also narrate stories of artistry, ambition, and cultural pride.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral stands as a cornerstone of Gothic architecture. Despite its challenges, including the fire of 2019, it remains a symbol of resilience and artistic excellence. Its intricate facades and soaring spires capture the medieval spirit, drawing both admiration and pilgrimage. Thanks to writings by Victor Hugo,  a neglected Cathedral Notre-Dame was finally renovated. It is a working church so anybody can enter but do not talk too loud, they are very concerned about the peaceful atmosphere for the worshippers. There is a charge to climb the tower stairs through the Tower Entrance. There is also a charge for entrance into the Crypt Entrance. That is where you will find archeological artifacts of  ancient Notre-Dame and Roman Lutetia. Tickets to the Crypt are 11 euros. The towers are also reopening after completion of the restoration. Before the great fire, the tickets were 10 euros but they will cost 16 euros now.

Then there’s the Eiffel Tower, arguably the most recognized symbol of Paris. Originally met with mixed critiques when unveiled for the 1889 World’s Fair, it has transformed into a beloved landmark, encapsulating industrial prowess and the romance of the city. At night, it dazzles with a glow that captivates the heart of onlookers, reflecting Paris’s continuing allure. We visited the Eiffel Tower both years we visited Paris. The first year was to reach the summit and to eat at the first floor restaurant which is now called Madame Brasserie. The second year we visited was to reach the summit and then to spend the afternoon at the promenade that includes many different eateries including Pierre Hermé Macaroon Bar. Dinner at Madame Brasserie would start at 130 euro. To get to the summit, there are two options:

55 euro to take the elevator up to floor 2 and then take steps to summit or

72 euro to take the elevator all the way to the summit.

There are also tickets at 120 euro to the summit with a glass of champagne but I can assure you, those are not worth the price because the champagne is not great. Besides that, the champagne is served in plastic glasses.

The afore mentioned Arc de Triomphe, another monumental presence, commemorates those who fought and died for France. Its powerful design anchors the Champs-Élysées and serves as a stage for national celebrations, embodying both historical remembrance and modern pageantry. From the roof, you will see a 360 view of Paris with the perfectly aligned 12 streets radiating out from the Arc de Triomphe which includes the Historical Axis that includes Louvre Museum,  Place Concord, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, and La Defense which is the financial district of France. Arc de Triomphe is open from 1000 until 2300. Tickets are 22 euros to walk the antiquated steps up to the museum and the roof. 

These architectural gems aren’t isolated relics; they work collectively to reinforce Paris’s reputation as a center of art and architecture. They stand not just as monuments but as active, living parts of the city’s ongoing narrative, beckoning artists, dreamers, and history enthusiasts. It is very obvious that Parisians take their artistic heritage seriously.

Discovering these structures is like embarking on a journey through time, where each stone whisper evidences of triumphs and transformations. By visiting them, one engages with the city’s soul, seeing firsthand how past glories continue to shape current identities.

From Historical Edifices to Houses of Knowledge: Museums That Inspire

Paris is not just about its iconic landmarks but also about how it preserves history and champions art through its world-renowned museums. These institutions are housed in buildings echoing the grandeur of bygone eras, skillfully blending architectural splendor with cultural education, very often in the actual homes and studios of the artists, kings, and other royalty. 

The Louvre, once a royal residence, is now the world’s largest museum. Its transformation from a fortress to a palace, and finally to a repository of art and history, is a lesson in adaptive reuse. Visitors step into its vast halls to admire works like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, experiencing the transcendence of art across centuries. It is open from 0900 until 1800 although it does stay open until 2100 on Wednesday and Friday until 2100. THE LOUVRE MUSEUM IS CLOSED ON TUESDAYS! General admission is 22 euros. If you want a tour, then 31 euros will get you admission to tthe museum with a guided tour and workshops. That sounds like an all day thing.

For fans of Impressionism and modern art, the Orsay Museum offers an enriching experience. Set in a Beaux-Arts railway station, the Orsay flawlessly integrates its architectural origins with its art collections, providing a unique vantage point on how spaces can be repurposed to serve both historical preservation and present-day relevance. I imagine many of you have seen this museum in movies. The movie Hugo takes place mostly here as the main character lives in its clock tower. It is open from 0930 until 1800 although it stays open until 2145 on Thursdays. General admission is 16 euros. IT IS CLOSED ON MONDAYS. Come here to see Edouard Manets’ Berthe Morisot, Jean Baptiste Carpeauxs’ The Dance, Pierre-August Renoirs’ Dance at the Moulin de la Galette, and Paul Cézannes’ The Card Players. Of course there are so many others but these paintings are known to even non art connoisseurs like me.

The Palace of Versailles, a short journey from the city, showcases the opulence of French kings. Once the center of political power, it now captivates with its Baroque architecture and expansive gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the luxury and excesses of past monarchies. Tickets for the palace are 21 euros and 60 euros will get you a guided tour of the kings’ private apartments. You can visit the Trianon and Marie-Antoinettes’ Estate for 12 euros. The various areas of the palace estate are open at different times. The Park is open the earliest at 0700 until 2030 every day. The palace itself is open from 0900 until 1830. IT IS CLOSED ON MONDAYS.

These museums are more than just attractions; they are spaces where stories of innovation, power, and creativity are told. Each gallery, hallway, and exhibition invites visitors to explore the many facets of human achievement and provides context to appreciate the forces that shaped modern civilization. Visiting them isn’t just about viewing art—it’s an educational passage that connects us to artists, rulers, and visionaries of the past.

We spent the day on Rue Rivoli from Louvre Museum to Palais Royal. This is the courtyard area of Palais Royal.

The Columns of Buren are located here. Daniel Buren created these columns in 1985. The french know them as Les Deux Plateaux in the Cour d’Honneur. The installation of the columns was controversial because they werethought to be inappropriate for a 17th century palace. But, as has often been the case in Paris, ( think pyramid at the Louvre courtyard and Montparnasse Tower), they were built anyway and are now accepted as iconic ( at least by me). There are 260 black and white columns of several heights. Some of the columns are taller than a person. You can see my other photos through my instagram link on my profile page.

Being a part of this living history compels one to reflect on the importance of preserving cultural legacies while adapting them for future generations. These museums act as conservators of collective memory, continuing to inspire and educate amidst the ongoing evolution of the city. Paris is completely full of museums. Besides the Louvre and Orsay, there are Jacquemart André Museum, Institut du Monde Arabe, Petit Palais (my favorite with a sculpture of Dante Alighiere), Musée Picasso Paris, Grand Palais, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Musée Rodin (with its “The Thinker”), and many, many more.

VERY EASY INTINERARY;

Day one would start with the Eiffel Tower because of how iconic it is. Many of you would prefer not to go through the logistics of visiting the Eiffel tower, and possibly just go to Place Trocadero and take photographs of it. Place Trocadero is immediately across the Seine River from where the Eiffel Tower stands so it is very easy access walking between the Eiffel Tower and Place Trocadero. Conversely, you can also take some mighty fine photos of the tower from Champ de Mars. I personally recommend going to the summit and then eating at one of the restaurants there. We ate the first floor restaurant but there is a Michelin Star Restaurant on the second floor. There is also a promenade on the first and second floors where you can sit, relax, and eat and drink as long as you want. I suggest spending the whole morning here. 

Then I suggest going to Louvre Museum to visit another very iconic place. There is a really nice restaurant where you can eat lunch (if you did not eat a full meal at the Eiffel Tower) called Les Ombres. It is at 27 Quay Branly and it will take only five minutes to walk there from the Eiffel Tower. It is a rooftop French restaurant. It is on top of the Musée Branly which you can also check out for about one hour. It is full of archeological artifacts. It is a classy restaurant but the set menus all have three courses. The 73 euro menu is very good. There is a view of the Eiffel Tower from the restaurant.

In the evening, at the Louvre Museum, you can spend all the time you want until closing. Get into the largest museum in the world and get lost. There is a snack bar with a very nice terrace overlooking the courtyard with the pyramid.

Now, there is one consideration you may want to consider. You may prefer to watch the sunset from the Eiffel Tower which is amazing because you will have that natural show of the sun going down AND the lights of the Eiffel Tower starting to glimmer bright all around you on the hour every hour starting at sunset. So go to the Louvre Museum in the morning and to the Eiffel Tower after lunch. 

For day two, I suggest going to Musée d’Orsay at 0930 and roam the museum until your heart is fully contented. It is full of masterpieces by artists like Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Degas. 

Then, for lunch, I suggest L’ Almanach which is a very cozy French bistro. It is at 35 Rue Ramey. It is in the heart of your evening destination, Montmartre where Basilica Sacre-Cœur is. You can walk to the Basilica in eight minutes from the restaurant. From the Orsay Museum, you can take Metro Line 12 from stop Solférino to stop Jules-Joffrin. Walk five minutes from there to the restaurant. Make sure to relax and stay for at least an hour at the restaurant. It will be very pleasant.

And spend the evening at Sacre-Cœur and the Montmartre neighborhood. Visit Place du Tertre and a couple of museums in the neighborhood. Toulouse-Lautrec, Vincent Van Gogh Pablo Picasso, Salvado.r Dalí, and others lived here and built an artistic community that lives on today. It is the highest point in Paris so you can wander the streets, visit places that were the homes and studios of these artists, watch present day artists at work, eat snacks, gelato, pastries, and wait for the performers that will put on shows at the bottom of the Basilica steps. It is kind of like a small amphitheater with all of Paris as the backdrop. You will be able to see the Eiffel Tower sparkling with golden lights each hour on the hour starting at dusk.

On day three, I suggest a trip to Village Versailles to tour the Palace and its grounds. It takes about 70 minutes to get there with RER Line # C. Catch this RER line at its Musée d’Orsay stop then ride until you reach the Versailles Château Rive Gauche stop. It will be a 15 minute walk to the Palace. Visit the Hall of Mirrors, the gardens, and Marie-Antoinettes’ Trianon.  Surely you will want to stay here all morning before going to lunch. 

One good suggestion for lunch would be on the way to the next destination. I like La Potager du Marais which serves French cuisine but is unusually vegetarian friendly. It is at 24 Rue Rambuteau and is much loved by locals. It is rated five stars by Restaurant Guru but the prices are reasonable. 

Then, for the evening, head to the Seine River to catch an evening cruise on the river. The operator we booked our cruise with is Bateaux Parisiens but it was the default operator for us to use because we got a free river cruise when we purchased the Paris Pass’Lib City Pass package. That package also provided us with a free ride on the double decker Hop On-Hop Off bus tour. We also got entry into some 60 museums and rides on public buses and the subway for five days ( that is how many days I bought the Paris Pass’Lib City Pass package for). Anyway, there are several other river cruise operators to choose from if you do not get the Paris Pass’Lib City Pass package. You can go to the official Paris Je’Taime website to buy them (there are several options as to how many days you will need it). 

Well that is it for now but I will update this page as needed. thank you for reading.

Dante Alighieri said:

Wherever you are, be all there.”

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Here is a FAQ section you can read for a more focused discussion about traveling to Paris:

Is Paris safe for tourists?

Paris is generally safe, but travelers are most concerned about pickpocketing and petty theft in busy tourist areas, on the Metro, and around major stations and monuments. Violent crime against tourists is rare; using basic precautions like keeping bags zipped and valuables out of sight greatly reduces risk.​

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How can I avoid pickpockets and scams?

The biggest concern for many visitors is having wallets or phones stolen in crowds or being drawn into street scams. Use a crossbody bag that closes securely, keep it in front of you in lines and on transit, and politely ignore strangers trying to tie bracelets on you, hand you “gifts,” or ask you to sign petitions.​

What are the safest areas to stay in Paris?

Most central neighborhoods that visitors choose—such as areas around the Louvre, Saint‑Germain, the Latin Quarter, and the Eiffel Tower—are considered safe, especially if you stay on well‑lit streets and are mindful of your belongings. Outlying districts and some northern suburbs can feel less comfortable at night and are usually outside the typical tourist zone.​

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Is the Paris Metro safe to use?

Travelers often worry about using public transportation, but the Metro and RER are widely used and generally safe, with petty theft being the main issue rather than violence. Avoid displaying phones or wallets in crowded carriages, watch bags near doors, and stay extra alert late at night at busy hubs like Châtelet–Les Halles and Gare du Nord.​ I saw a few beggars here and there and musicians but never any threats.

How should I get from the airport into the city?

Many visitors are concerned about confusing transport options and overcharging by taxis at the airports. To reduce stress, pre‑book a reputable transfer or use official taxis/recognised ride‑share apps from signed stands, and avoid anyone approaching you directly with unsolicited offers.​

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When is the best time to visit Paris?

Crowds, heat, and strikes are common worries when choosing dates. Spring and fall often balance lighter crowds and pleasant weather, while summer is busy and August can bring closures as locals take holidays, plus occasional transport strikes at various times of year.

How can I avoid long lines at major attractions?

First‑time visitors often fear “wasting” their vacation standing in queues at places like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Booking timed tickets in advance, starting your day early, and grouping nearby sights into the same day can dramatically cut wait times.​

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Is Paris expensive, and how can I manage my budget?

Concerns about cost are common because central hotels, dining, and attractions can add up quickly. Travelers can manage budgets by choosing modest, well‑located hotels, using passes or advance tickets for museums when it makes financial sense, and mixing sit‑down meals with bakeries, picnics, and set‑price lunch menus.​

Do I need to speak French?

Many travelers worry about language barriers and being misunderstood. Basic French greetings and polite phrases go a long way; in most tourist‑facing places staff speak at least some English, especially if you start interactions with a friendly “Bonjour”.​

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Are strikes and protests something to worry about?

Visitors frequently ask about transport strikes and demonstrations, which are not uncommon in Paris and can disrupt metro lines, trains, and some services. These events are usually announced in advance, so checking news and official advisories before and during your trip helps you adjust plans if needed.​

Is Paris safe for solo and female travelers?

Solo and female travelers often share concerns about harassment and moving around at night. Sticking to central, busy areas after dark, avoiding isolated streets, and using well‑lit Metro stations or reputable taxis helps most visitors feel comfortable while still enjoying evening walks, dinners, and riverfront views.​

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Should I drive in Paris as a visitor?

Driving in central Paris worries many visitors because of heavy traffic, complex rules, and aggressive driving styles. For most tourists, public transport and walking are far easier and less stressful than renting a car within the city.

How can I keep my money and documents secure?

Losing passports or cards is a major fear for travelers. Keep only what you need for the day in a secure wallet, store backups (and digital copies) of documents separately, and use bank cards or contactless payments instead of carrying large amounts of cash.

Thank you for reading and I am open for all suggestions from visitors to my website. This website is just beginning so I welcome any readers who care to, please leave any suggestions about what I can add that will help readers here. Thank you, MAC.

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