Romantic Paris in a Day – Exploring the Magic of the City of Lights - Passing Thru

Traveler Profile: Katie, UK

Location: Paris, France

Time of Year: April

Travel Goals: Great photography locations, art, history, a bit of crazy

Paris was as beautiful as I imagined it to be. The city of light offers an array of iconic sights and experiences that can make even a single day feel magical. From the artistic attraction of the Louvre Museum to the iconic Eiffel Tower, followed by an evening at the avant-garde Crazy Horse, my guide provides a comprehensive itinerary for an unforgettable day in Paris.

Breakfast at Café Kitsuné Palais Royal

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Near the Louvre Museum, Café Kitsuné Palais Royal is a quintessential Parisian experience, especially favored during the spring and summer for its expansive outdoor terrace. This café has rapidly become a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking a high-quality coffee experience in the heart of Paris. Café Kitsuné offers a selection of treats and light meals at the restaurant on the first floor, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely breakfast or a quick morning pick-me-up.

Morning Visit to the Louvre Museum

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The Louvre Museum in Paris, one of the world’s largest and most historic art museums, originated as a 12th-century fortress under King Philip II, evolving into a royal palace and then into the present-day museum since its public opening in 1793. It encompasses over 72,735 square meters of exhibition space, showcasing a vast collection of over 380,000 objects, with 35,000 works on display across eight departments, including Near Eastern to Islamic Art and Paintings. Renowned pieces like Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” and the “Venus de Milo” highlight a diverse array of human creativity from prehistory to the modern era.

Stroll Through the Tuileries Garden

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The Tuileries Garden, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde in Paris, was established in 1564 by Queen Catherine de’ Medici and later redesigned by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century into a formal French garden. Spanning about 25.5 hectares, it exemplifies classic French garden design with its geometric layouts, broad walkways, and manicured lawns, enhanced by sculptures from renowned artists like Maillol, Rodin, and Giacometti. Serving as both a historical site and a vibrant cultural hub, the Tuileries Garden offers a tranquil space for relaxation and hosts various events, including Paris Fashion Week and the Fête des Tuileries, contributing significantly to the city’s cultural and social life.

Lunch at Verde by Yeeels on the Champs-Élysées

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Verde by Yeeels, located just steps from the Champs-Élysées on Avenue George V, offers a contemporary dining experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Under the guidance of head chef Julian Thibault, the restaurant presents a fusion of upscale dining and Parisian mixology. The brunch menu, featuring dishes like eggs benedict alongside exotic cocktails, provides a trendy culinary experience.

Afternoon Climb up the Eiffel Tower

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The Eiffel Tower, completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle and designed by Gustave Eiffel, highlights extraordinary architectural innovation and has become a symbol of France despite initial skepticism. Standing at 324 meters, it was the tallest structure globally until 1930 and is notable for its construction from over 18,000 pieces of wrought iron and 2.5 million rivets, marking a significant shift in architectural design from the 19th century’s ornate styles. The tower features three visitor levels with restaurants, shops, and a historical exhibit, while its summit offers expansive views of Paris, securing its status as a leading tourist attraction.

Dinner and Show at Crazy Horse

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End your day in Paris with an evening at the iconic Crazy Horse cabaret, offering the “CRAZY EXCLUSIVE & GINGER” package for a blend of luxury, fine dining, and avant-garde entertainment. Since its founding in 1951 by Alain Bernardin, Crazy Horse has set itself apart with its artistic approach to cabaret, located near the Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement. Known for its intimate venue and innovative performances that celebrate the female form through sophisticated choreography and cutting-edge lighting, Crazy Horse delivers a unique experience. Its shows embody Bernardin’s vision, merging dance, music, and visual effects with elegance and creativity, using costumes and lighting to create captivating visual illusions, truly encapsulating Parisian nightlife’s essence.

A Potted History of Paris

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Paris, France’s capital, has evolved from a small Gallic settlement called Lutetia, conquered by the Romans in 52 BC, into a major global city over two millennia. Its growth was propelled by its strategic Seine River location, becoming a medieval powerhouse and later, a modern metropolis. The founding of the University of Paris in the 12th century established it as an intellectual hub, with its influence peaking in the 17th century under Louis XIV. Despite the royal court’s move to Versailles, the city remained significant, with the French Revolution in 1789 marking a pivotal point for social and political change. The 19th century’s urban renewal under Napoleon III and Haussmann introduced the broad avenues and unified architectural style seen today. Throughout the 20th century, Paris continued to thrive as a cultural and artistic center, despite the challenges of two World Wars, maintaining its status as a world leader in art, fashion, and cuisine.

When to Travel

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Spring and early fall are ideal for visiting Paris, offering mild weather and fewer crowds, enhancing outdoor activities and dining enjoyment.

How to Get There

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Paris is well-connected by air with two main airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly. The city’s extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and RER trains, makes navigating Paris convenient and efficient.

The Bottom Line

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When planned carefully, a day in Paris can offer plenty of cultural, culinary, and visual experiences. From the artistic treasures of the Louvre to the breathtaking views from the Eiffel Tower, capped off with a night of exquisite dining and entertainment at Crazy Horse, Paris promises an unforgettable journey through its historic streets and beyond.

Romantic Paris in a Day – Exploring the Magic of the City of Lights