Bonjour friends! Picking up where I left off last week, here is part 2 of my Paris trip. Looking through my photos reminds me of what a dream the trip really was.
Since it was my first time in the city of lights, I spent some time checking out two of Paris’ museums, the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. I took the advice from friends and purchased the Paris Museum Pass.
It allowed front of the line access to many popular Paris attractions, including entrance fees at quite a few of the stops I would be visiting. It was raining the day I went to the Louvre, which makes it a perfect time to be inside. The Louvre is gorgeous and has a vast collection. I knew I wasn’t going to see everything, so I tackled it like a champ. I strolled around the halls and only stopped to view a few pieces that piqued my interest. Musée d’Orsay was a nice contrast to the Louvre. It’s a bit smaller, so you’re able to take in a bit more. It’s housed in a old train station with a clock that is my favorite part. If you get a chance, I would recommend the Musée d’Orsay as a must see on your Paris museum list.
I spent another afternoon walking in Paris’ 18th arrondissement, Montmartre. I opted to walk up the windy streets and concrete staircases to the top. It was tough, but I’m glad I did it. I was able to take in the neighborhood with its small parks and beautiful pastel buildings that hide among the trees and windy streets. Once you reach the top, there are breathtaking views of Paris, but also that is where the Sacré-Cœur Basilica sits. If you don’t want to walk up through Montmartre, there is a gondola that will take you straight to Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The Palais Garnier and the Catacombs of Paris were two other points of interest I would recommend. The Palais Garnier’s architecture is so striking and beautiful. All the detailing on the facades took my breath away. The Catacombs of Paris was a nice surprise. I wasn’t too sure what to expect, as it was a last minute ticket purchase. Tip: reserve your time in advance online! You won’t have to wait and you walk right in during your scheduled time. I learned it holds the remains of more than six million people!
My trip to Paris was a dream. I can’t believe I finally went and I am looking forward to going to back.
