72 Hours in the City of Light, Paris

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. Characterized by rich culture, beautiful buildings, storied past, delicious food, and a distinct ambiance that sets it apart from others, it comes as no surprise that many people visit and revisit the City of Light.

A short holiday will not allow you to experience and see all that Paris has to offer. If 72 hours is all the time you have, here are some suggestions of things to do and places to visit during a short trip.

Palais-Royal Gardens

Paris is a busy city that has a frenetic hustle and bustle. If you want to get away from the chaos, visit the Palais-Royal Gardens. The formal gardens and boutiques date back to the time of Louis XIV. The manicured appeal and old-world charm will make you want to linger longer. World-class designers and perfumers call this elegant, complex home. You will see names such as Maison Fabre and Lavabre Cadet, Rick Owens and Pierre Hardy while exploring.

Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens is a primary tourist destination for first-timers and return visitors. The Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Pres surrounds the atmospheric garden. Locals go to the garden to relax, get a tan, or have a picnic. Go on an afternoon, leisurely stroll and soak in the Parisian ambiance.

Eiffel Tower

The most iconic landmark in Paris, the Tour Eiffel or Eiffel Tower is a must for everyone visiting the City of Light. As cliché as the tower is, it’s still remarkable to look at and take pictures of. It elicits a sense of awe and nostalgia from visitors. Go up the tower to get overlooking views of the city at night or during blue hour. Look for a French Chateau near Paris to be as close as possible to the city’s top attractions during your holiday.

Musee d’Orsay

Paris has several museums that display the artworks of modern and classical artists. One-stop to include in your itinerary is the Musee d’Orsay. The museum is home to the work of famous Impressionists such as Van Gogh, Manet, Gaugin, Cezanne, and others. Go on a guided tour to learn more about the paintings you will see, and eat or drink at the restaurants and cafes nearby.

The Louvre

The Louvre is another Paris icon; this beautiful structure is a city landmark and is often on the pages and covers of magazines and travel websites. The museum has several displays and exhibits that change year-round, but there are also mainstays that attract visitors from all over the world.

Walk Around the Marais

If you want to go on a shopping spree, Paris is one of the cities to do so. The Marais is a shopper’s haven because of the many high-end brands, cocktail bars, cafes, and restaurants in the neighborhood. The charming alleys, historic buildings, and beautiful architecture will also occupy your mind as you wander and weave in and out of shops.

Palace of Versailles

This beautiful palace complex is one of the grandest and most beautiful in the world. It is a symbol of power and affluence during the ancient regimes. This may be a famous tourist destination, but you can avoid the crowds by finding a quiet spot or go at a time where foot traffic is the least.

These are only a few of the places you can visit during your 72 hours’ trip around Paris. Plan the next holiday to discover and experience all the city has to offer.