Ah Paris! Vous me manquez beaucoup.
After spending nearly six full months in Paris, I have often been asked where are the best places to go in Paris and if I have my own "guide" or comprehensive list of the must-sees and must-dos for the city of love and haute couture. The answer is yes. Yes, I do have my own guide to the city since spending close to half of a year in this city made me realize that those cliche tourist guides do not emphasize, or in some cases even mention some of the most incredible and unique spots in the city. If you are planning on traveling to this incredible and cosmopolitan metropolis, save the $7.99 you would spend on your Fodor's Travel Guide e-book and follow this experienced guide instead. (Disclaimer: This guide is in no particular order)
1. Shakespeare & Co (37 Rue de la Bucherie, 5th Arrondissement)
This iconic bookstore does not only appeal to bookworms and history nerds, but also anyone interested in seeing Paris as the shop is situated in a prime location with a stunning view of Paris. Shakespeare & Co is situated on the Left Bank of the famous Seine River in Paris provided views of both Notre Dame cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. So grab a book, in French, English or any language in which you choose, and sit on a bench along the River and soak in the city and it's stunning views.
2. L'as du Fallafel (34 Rue de Rosiers, 4th Arrondissement)
Though this may be really hard to believe, the best tasting falafel in the entire world is situated in the Marais (Jewish Quarter) of Paris, far from its Mediterranean origins. This little restaurant stand is frequented by many, but the wait is most-definitely worth it as there is no taste comparable to the hot and crunchy flare of a L'as du Falafel pita wrap. Additionally, the area that surrounds this famed eating spot is both incredible and historic as well, so take your falafel and go on a beautiful walk around this cozy area.
3. Run/Walk/Jog Through the Luxembourg Gardens (6th Arrondissement)
The gardens, which were originally designed by Marie de Medici, is a magical paradise full of political action, Parisian culture, and fantastic views. Though it is very easy to fall into a daze in a chair in front of the pond, take the time to walk throughout the Garden in its entirety. You can walk at a leisurely pace or even run as there are several running organizations including the French pompiers (firefighters) who run through the majestic gardens on a regular basis.
4. Louis Vuitton Foundation (8 Avenue de Mahatma Gandhi, 16th Arrondissement)
Though it only recently opened in October 2014, the Louis Vuitton Foundation is a must-see in Paris. The museum, which is a separate entity from the renowned fashion section of the LVHM brand, houses some pretty stellar artwork in addition to being an architectural phenomenon itself. The museum, both its interior and exterior, are definitely worth checking out while in Paris.
5. The Champs-Elysées, at night (Avenue de Champs-Elysees, 8th Arrondissement)
Though the Champs-Elysees is probably the most famous street for both commercial and high-end shopping in the entire world, it has become a tourist trap and a site of global consumerism. I found that the street, which once claimed to be the site of unique haute-couture French boutiques and fashion, resembled more or less Madison Avenue in New York City with recognizable store fronts and overeager and overaggressive tourists. However, I came to the Champs-Elysées at night and experienced a completely paradoxical situation. The streets were still bustling, but with Parisian citizens looking to have fun and take advantage of the nightlife and fine restaurants on the street. Going to the Champs-Elysées allows you to be immersed in the French culture, truly experience the aesthetic beauty of the street and its scenery, and have fun since the street also houses some entertaining nightclubs, bars, and restaurants.
6. Sacre-Coeur (35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 18th Arrondissement)
I know this one is cliche, but nothing is comparable to view and the essence of Sacre-Coeur.
