After a long flight, we finally touched down in Paris, the City of Light. Exhausted but exhilarated, we made our way to our hotel, Hotel De Lys, conveniently located in the 5th Arrondissement which is near the many of the famous sites including the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. The proximity to this and other historic landmark set the tone for our Parisian adventure. After checking in and freshening up, we decided to stretch our legs with a leisurely stroll along the Seine River.
As we approached the river we couldn’t miss the iconic silhouette of Notre Dame Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece, built between the 12th and 14th centuries, has always been a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural brilliance. The intricate details, the towering spires, and the breathtaking rose windows are just a few of the features that have captivated visitors for centuries.. Despite the ongoing restoration work, the cathedral’s grandeur was still palpable. We spent some time admiring the intricate details of the facade and imagining the stories it has witnessed over the centuries.
However, as we approached the cathedral, we were reminded of the tragic fire that struck in April 2019. The flames caused significant damage, particularly to the roof and spire. Despite this, the spirit of Notre Dame remains unbroken. Reconstruction efforts are well underway, with a dedicated team working tirelessly to restore this historic gem. There’s a sense of hope in the air, as plans are set for the cathedral to reopen to the public by 2024.
While at the cathedral we had to stop at the La Fete Du Pain, the annual bread festival, and sample the delicious tarts and croissants. We enjoyed watching the boats on the river as they passed under any of the famous and historic bridges while we wandered by the many vendor stalls that line the river. As night fell, we found a cozy vegetarian/vegan restaurant, Le Grenier De Notre Dame, nearby and enjoyed our first amazing French meal. The warm evening light bathed the city in a golden hue, making everything look like a scene from a postcard. Click on thumbnail to view image
Day 2
After a light breakfast of flaky croissants, Patty and I embarked on a day of celebration. Today was special—Patty’s 75th birthday—and we were determined to make it unforgettable.
Our journey began with a leisurely stroll along the Seine, the river sparkling under the morning sun. The air was filled with the gentle hum of Paris waking up, and we were surrounded by picturesque scenes: elegant bridges arching over the water, historic buildings with ornate facades, and charming houseboats gently bobbing on the river.
As we walked, the Eiffel Tower gradually came into view, its iron lattice structure growing more prominent with each step. This iconic symbol of Paris, completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, stood majestically against the blue sky. Originally met with mixed reactions, the tower has since become a beloved landmark and a testament to human ingenuity.
Our destination was the Jules Verne Restaurant, perched high within the Eiffel Tower itself. Renowned for its spectacular views and exquisite cuisine, the restaurant is named after the famous French writer who penned tales of adventure and exploration. As we approached, the anticipation grew—both for the culinary delights and the panoramic vistas that awaited us.
Upon reaching the Eiffel Tower, we took a moment to admire its intricate ironwork up close. It was then time to ascend to the Jules Verne Restaurant. The journey upwards felt like an adventure in itself, as the elevator whisked us to the second level of the tower.
Stepping into the restaurant, we were greeted by elegant decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that framed the stunning views of Paris below. The ambiance was sophisticated yet welcoming, perfect for celebrating such a momentous occasion.
The meal was a culinary masterpiece, each dish a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the delicate amuse-bouche to the sumptuous main courses, every bite was a delight. The attentive service and impeccable presentation made the experience truly exceptional.
As we dined, we reminisced about our adventures together and adventures yet to come. The Eiffel Tower, with its storied history and breathtaking views, provided the perfect backdrop for this special day. It was a celebration of life, love, and the enduring charm of Paris.
Paris had once again proven itself to be a city of endless wonder and enchantment, and this day—Patty’s 75th birthday—was one we would never forget. Click on thumbnail to view image
Day 3
Our second day in Paris began with eager anticipation as we embarked on a walking tour of the city’s oldest and most iconic sites. Guided by Marie, an art historian brimming with fascinating insights, we felt like we were stepping back in time with each cobblestone we traversed.
Marie’s wealth of knowledge brought the history and beauty of Paris to life. We wandered through charming medieval streets, marveling at the centuries-old architecture. She shared stories about the hidden corners of Île de la Cité, where Paris was born, and the significance of landmarks like the Sainte-Chapelle with its stunning stained glass windows.
Our final destination on the tour was the Louvre Museum, a veritable treasure trove of art and history. Originally a medieval fortress and later a royal palace, the Louvre has been a museum since 1793, housing masterpieces from across the globe. From the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa to the graceful beauty of the Venus de Milo, the Louvre’s vast collection is a testament to the enduring power of art.
After bidding farewell to Marie, we set off for a leisurely stroll up the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous avenue. Lined with elegant shops, theaters, and cafés, the boulevard was alive with activity. We paused to admire the Arc de Triomphe, a monument commemorating French military victories, standing proudly at the western end of the avenue.
Our evening was set for another memorable experience—a river cruise on the Seine. As we returned to the Eiffel Tower to board our boat, the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. The warm glow of the setting sun cast a romantic ambiance over the city.
As our boat set off upriver, we enjoyed a serene journey past Paris’s illuminated landmarks. The grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral, with its majestic towers and intricate façade, was even more enchanting in the twilight. The city lights began to twinkle, reflecting off the water and creating a magical atmosphere.
As we approached the Eiffel Tower once more, it suddenly burst into a spectacular display of sparkling lights, each glittering like a diamond against the night sky. It was a breathtaking sight, a perfect finale to our river cruise.
Wandering back to our hotel along the Seine, we soaked in the serene beauty of Paris at night. The gentle ripples of the river mirrored the shimmering lights, casting a spell of enchantment over the city. It was a moment of pure magic, a memory that would linger long after we had left the City of Light. Click on thumbnail to view image
Day 4
For our final day in Paris, we decided to take a cab to Montmartre, the charming hilltop district known for its artistic heritage and bohemian spirit. Our main destination was the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a stunning landmark that crowns the highest point in the city.
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, with its striking white domes, was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a symbol of hope and unity after the turmoil of the Franco-Prussian War. Its Romano-Byzantine architecture, adorned with intricate mosaics and statues, creates a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, symbolizing divine love and mercy.
After wandering through this magnificent church, we decided to climb the 300 steps up one of the towers. The effort was well worth it, as we were rewarded with panoramic views of Paris stretching out beneath us. From this vantage point, the city’s landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the sprawling expanse of the Seine—looked even more breathtaking.
Descending into the quaint village of Montmartre, we found ourselves amidst narrow, winding streets lined with cafés, art galleries, and boutiques. The vibrant atmosphere and artistic flair of the area made it a joy to explore. We stumbled upon a delightful bistro for lunch, where we savored delicious French cuisine while soaking in the local ambiance.
As we sat there, reflecting on our time in Paris, we couldn’t help but feel a deep affection for this city. From its historic landmarks to its charming neighborhoods, Paris had captured our hearts. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable trip, and as we prepared to leave, we knew that the memories we made here would stay with us forever. Click on thumbnail to view image
