I was fortunate enough to have spent the last three weeks in Paris, France and it was the most life changing three weeks I have ever experienced.
People say that studying abroad is life changing and I never really understood what they meant until this trip. Going to museums everyday, eating at local cafes and bakeries, and having time to explore over the weekend does not even begin to describe my experience.
Now being home and looking back on it I am able to pick out certain things that I feel as though everyone should do if they get the chance to go to Paris. They will truly add so much happiness to your life.
1. Get macarons From Ladurée
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Macarons are by far one of my favorite desserts and Ladurée's are the best. Salted caramel, rose, and pistachio are really the way to go.
2. Experience the beautiful gardens of Giverny
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This is about an hour outside of Paris, but it is a must. Getting to experience the gardens and beauty of where Monet painted was so incredibly amazing.
3. Sit and read at Shakespeare and Co.
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I am a sucker for a good bookstore. I could literally sit in a Barnes and Noble for hours reading on the floor. The aura that Shakespeare and Co. has is one of nostalgia. The way that the bookshop is set up is a little cramped, but if you happen to find a spot on a bed or a chair to read, definitely take the opportunity to do so. I recommend anything written by Hemingway.
4. Eat as many Popelini cream puffs as you can
I'm not a huge cream puff fan, but these changed the game for me. With an outside that is soft and a creamy filling that is bursting with flavor, you can't go wrong no matter which flavor you choose.
5. Buy a ticket to the ballet at Palais Garnier
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I had only ever seen one professional ballet before, so I didn't know what exactly to expect with this one. Let me just say that the ballet that I saw was by far one of the most moving pieces of art that I have ever seen. Comprised of four different pieces they were all totally different from one another, yet they made sense as a collective show. If you have the opportunity to I would buy a ticket. I can promise that you won't regret it.
6. Rent a row boat at Versailles
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When we went to Versailles the palace was beautiful, but once you step foot into the gardens you are transported to an entirely different world. Towards the back of the gardens they have a large canal where you can rent row boats. If you have the opportunity to go to Versailles definitely do this. Sitting on the boat, looking around me, I felt like I was in a fairytale. It was absolutely gorgeous.
7. Visit the Musée d'Orsay
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This is one of my favorite museums that we went to. Housing artwork by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas all of the pieces are so beautiful. I thought it was especially unique because the building was originally a train station.
8. Eat an entire baguette and don't feel bad about it.
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I used to think that it was such a stereotype of the French to walk down the street with a baguette under their arm, but that's just the way of life there. The bread in paris is so unbelievably good. Don't miss your opportunity.
9. Explore Montmartre
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Montmartre is the highest point in Paris giving you a view like no other. You could look around Sacré-Cour, buy art from some local artists, or get some mango sorbet. All around it makes for a great day!
10.Visit L'Atelier des Lumières
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This museum was one of the highlights of my trip. It is a huge warehouse space that has different art pieces projected on the walls. It's really more of a show than a museum. I could easily sit on the floor and stay for hours.
11. Climb the steps of the Eiffel Tower
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I'm pretty sure you can't take the stairs all the way to the top, but at least climb them to the second floor. Believe me I struggled climbing those 627 stairs, but I made it and the view was priceless. I suggest doing it at night, right as the sun is going down, but any time of the day is sure to be amazing.
12. Wander the streets with no destination
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There is something about this city that makes you want to walk around forever. The different hidden treasures you could find such as boutiques, bakeries, exhibits, parks, etc. goes on forever. It makes you have a different kind of appreciation for Paris.
- Top things to do in Paris, France - Lonely Planet ›
- The best things to do in Paris | Telegraph Travel ›
- 20 Ultimate Things to Do in Paris – Fodors Travel Guide ›
- The 10 Best Things to Do in Paris 2018 - Must See Attractions in ... ›
- 15 Best Things to Do in Paris | U.S.News Travel ›
- 15 Best Things to Do in Paris - 2018 (with Photos) - TripAdvisor ›
