What can I do in Paris during a 48-Hour stopover?
If you've got a stopover in the city of love, you might find yourself asking, "What can I do in Paris in 48 hours?" A short stay in Paris can be a wonderful opportunity to see famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Roue de Paris, enjoy traditional French cuisine, or walk along the Champs Elysees or Seine River. The best time to visit Paris is in the spring, but every season in the city has its charms. Winter visits mean warm fireplaces in snug bistros and fine French wine and autumn allows you to enjoy the fall leaves along the Seine. If you're wondering what to do on your short visit to the city here are some great ideas:
Must visit attractions in Paris
Probably the most famous landmark in Paris, the magnificent Eiffel Tower is visited by millions of people each year. The tower is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel and is constructed from wrought-iron lattice-work. Located on the Champ de Mars it is nicknamed 'La dame de fer', or the Iron Lady. It was constructed from 1887 to 1889 for the 1889 World's Fair and is most certainly well worth visiting when in Paris. The world-famous Louvre Museum houses some of France's most important artwork and historic artifacts. You will find it on the banks of the Seine River and will be able to view 38,000 objects from pre-history to the 21st century.
Take the perfect snap
The Arc de Triomphe is probably one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Take a selfie with friends or family at the base of this magnificent structure or walking up the Champs-Élysées to Place Charles de Gaulle. The arc and plaza are located on the 16th, 17th, and 8th arrondissements in Paris and were built to honour soldiers who fought and died for France in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary Wars. The majestic stucture makes a perfect backdrop for a selfie! The Roue de Paris is a 60 metre tall Ferris Wheel in the Tuileries garden that can seat eight people in one of 32 booths and completes two turns on each trip. It's a great place to take a striking Paris photograph!
Things to see in Paris
Paris has many beautifully designed and manicured parks along the Seine River where you can enjoy summer picnics and slow walks. Walking and cycling are popular along the left bank. The Tuileries gardens feature flowerbeds with geometric patterns, adorned by statues. This famous garden dates back to the 17th century. The lovely flowers in the Luxemborg gardens in spring and summer are also well worth a visit. Avid cyclists can enjoy the many wooded trails in the Bois de Boulogne park located in what was once a royal hunting ground. Stroll through the bustling city and marvel at the romantic aspects of the French capital!
Sample local dishes in Paris
Paris has been the centre of haute cuisine for centuries and this tradition of fine dining means that there is no shortage of tasty meals to sample. From the best in gourmet restaurants, like L'Astrance which has been granted three Michelin stars, to the best in bistros and cosy coffee shops selling the best in French pastries, Paris offers the ultimate fine dining experience. Stroll the Parisian walkways and stop for coffee and baguettes, a selection of fondant creations, eclairs and macarons while soaking up the sights and sounds of the 'City of Light'. Make sure to try the delicious Soupe à l'oignon, the boeuf bourguignon, soufflés, cassoulet, coq au vin and salad Nicoise.
Things to buy in Paris
Many dream of shopping in the world's most fashion-conscious city and, indeed, Paris is a shopping paradise. Haute Couture is readily available in the centre of Paris and the Champs Elysees is one of the world's most famous streets for high fashion and designer names. Once you have some fashion in your travel bag, stock up on some famous Parisian Reblochon cheese, French wines, buy a few gifts at Marche-aux-Puces, and go book shopping at the Bouquinistes. Don't forget to stock up on some fine chocolates and candy as well as the best mini art souvenirs by Picasso. Famous shopping streets include Rue Saint-Honoré, the Boulevard Haussmann and Avenue Montaigne on the Golden triangle.
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