It’s not a secret that Paris is one of my favourite places to visit. Yes, it’s a clichê, but clichês are there for a reason.
In each visit, I discover new facets, new places I haven’t explored, and I can see the difference in the trees and gardens, a new colour tone in the sky. Always something new, a new surprise, and it never lets me down – and this makes my heart beat event stronger.
This last visit was very special, as much as the first time I visited. Firstly, because it was my Birthday and I decided to go there to celebrate. And secondly, because it was my first visit during the summer (I’ve been only during autumn and winter). To see Paris in summer overwhelmed me with the green of the trees, the beach on the banks of Seine River, the gardens, the blue sky with a profusion of colours.
I like to travel and discover new places in different seasons of the year. I believe that each on has its enchantment, a particular beauty, and a unique way to enjoy the city during that time of year.
Paris in autumn is gorgeous (what’s not beautiful in autumn?), and during winter it becomes even more elegant. And now I can say that during summer it’s very colourful, beautiful and full of life. And I’m still missing a walk through it’s streets during spring – which will happen soon.
This is a destination that is always full of activities, walks, places, attractions and beauty all year round.
During summer there is nothing better than enjoying the longer days (since sundown happens much later), with walks along the River Seine banks or St. Martin canal, walks through garden and colourful parks, searching for a breeze under tree shadows, eating ice-cream (I highly recommend you try Berthillion). Slowly visiting neighbourhoods and discovering small streets and corners along the way. Sitting outside a bistro or café (sipping some white or rosé wine) and just observing the movement.
The boat tour along the River Seine is a great way to discover new landmarks along the city through a new perspective, especially if you are stying in town for only a few days, so you can sit down and relax from a days walk is also a great option (relaxing and looking at this city’s beauty at the same time).
A few museums and stores stay open late, which helps to not lose much daylight outside.
During autumn, the scenery changes drastically, the colour of the flowers and trees transform from green to yellow and orange, which transforms the city into a beautiful setting, and that is why one of my favourite activities during this time is to visit parks, gardens and observe the foliage. With the lower temperature, one of my favourite activities – sitting in a bistro to observe the movement – gains a new perspective and a new drink, this time with a red wine or some coffee.
Enjoying brief pauses during our walks to eat a delicious “croque”, eat some French specialties in their pastisserie and boulangeries.
The boat tour is still a good idea. The weather is a little colder, but not freezing.
Museum and store visits can happen earlier (since the day is shorter).
Winter (even with the cold weather) makes Paris even more beautiful and elegant. It looks like a movie scene (and it is part of a few). The lack of tree leaves reveals even more of the city’s architecture. Walking and looking at the beautiful architecture of these beautiful buildings and landmarks is a whole different attraction compared to other times of the year. This French metropolis is famous for its architecture and art, and these moments of contemplation are worth it. To run away from the cold weather (sometimes freezing weather), museum visits are a great trick.
With the cold weather, I find it even more appropriate to use part of the time for a gastronomic feast, to try different cheeses and breads, soups, casseroles, and everything delicious item in the French culinary culture. That is not to mention the sweets that deserve special attention on their own. And during winter there is nothing better than a good meal (or maybe more than one) to beat the cold.
During winter the days are shorter, but do not think this is something bad. The city at night is gorgeous, and there is a special charm to seeing Paris and its lights. Monuments shows new colours and dusk is incredibly enchanting.
My passion for this city is immense (I almost went to live there before choosing London), and so I decided to transform this love for Paris into posts. Tips of walks, museums, food, stores with many details to anyone who wants to learn more.
I hope you enjoy!