The summer after graduating college, I went on a 4-week study abroad trip to Paris and Madrid. We spent three weeks in Paris and it was absolutely amazing! Our program was very laid back and we were basically free to do whatever we wanted aside from our four to five class events each week. So basically my trip was just twenty 22-year-olds running around Paris for three weeks. This was three years ago (!), and to celebrate i’ve put together a list of some of my favorite things we did in Paris:
The Catacombs
The Catacombs are my #1 recommendation to anyone visiting Paris for more than a day or two. The tunnels under the city are truly unique and you’ll remember the experience forever.
People watch in the latin quarter
The latin quarter is filled with shops, restaurants and lots of people. Some of my favorite night were spent in the latin quarter people watching, eating or enjoying a drink at a bar.
Have a picnic with a view of the Eiffel Tower
Don’t just see the Eiffel tower, enjoy it! Spend an afternoon with a bottle of wine and a picnic and take in the view.
The Louvre & Musée d’Orsay
Of course see the Louvre, but check out Musée d’Orsay too if you have the chance! The museum was originally a train station built in 1900 and later converted to a museum in the 70’s. I loved Claude Monet as a child so I was very excited that Musée d’Orsay features a large collection of Monet.
Cantine California
I am a California girl and can’t go more than a few days without a taco or burrito in my life. If you’re like me and find yourself hungry for a taco in Paris, head to Cantine California. The food is great and the owners are super friendly Californians.
Others:
Versailles is gorgeous and massive. It’s only about an hour train ride from Paris and well worth the trip. I took two trips – one to explore the gardens and one to see the palace.
Hang out on the Seine. Some of my favorite nights were spent with a crêpe or gelato sitting on the banks of the Seine people watching.
The World Cup is big where ever you go in Europe. If you’re travelling to Europe during the World Cup, make it a point to hang out at a cafe and watch a match.
Fête de la Musique is a music festival that celebrates the start of summer. The city is filled with musicians playing on street corners, in parks, and on stages set up at major landmarks across the city.
Minted Bold 