24 hours in Paris

Time to pack my bags and go on a little European adventure with Topdeck

First stop Paris! We were coaching our way around Europe meaning there was loads of time to get to know the people I’d be travelling with. The way in which Topdeck works is that you travel one day and then explore the next. So we arrived in the evening and then the day after we’d be left to our own devices to explore Paris.

Up early (a common theme throughout this trip) the first stop would be the Eiffel Tower. With only having 24 hours it was a chance to be a tourist and see all the sights! The tower definitely looks much better in person and I have no idea why. I’m sure everyone who has been would say the exact same. It’s so much taller than I thought it was going to be.

Though the metro was a quick way of getting about, the best way to explore a city is to do things on foot. From the tower I headed towards the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe and on the walk I was able to get a feel for the Parisian styled buildings. If I was to compare it to the London landscape, it was much grander and thought out. And lots of symmetry for all you Instagram people!

Once I had taken in the view it was time for lunch! I’ve always been one for trying to find a restaurant that isn’t a chain when in a new city and that was the same for when I was in Paris. Head off the main road and onto the side streets you’re bound to stumble across a small restaurant.

Following lunch, the Louvre was my next stop in a 24-hour whirlwind of Paris. Seeing the glass pyramids

and the Mona Lisa in person were a highlight for me, along with the cool ceilings inside, move over #ihavethisthingwithfloors. Near enough every room had an elaborate ceiling that had you tilting your neck away from the artwork itself. I’d definitely recommend visiting if you get the chance!

I managed to get my independent fix towards the end of the evening at Le Peloton Café and an obligatory coffee boost from walking around Paris all day. Just slightly out the centre and across the river you’ll find a collection of little stores and cafes. Le Peleton is one of the very few coffee shops flying the flag for good coffee in Paris according to the owners. So if you wanted to do a coffee tour of Paris, you probably could do it in a weekend (or a day if you’re crazy over coffee).

The last place to see on my list was the Notre Dame. Just as elaborate on the inside as its façade, it was another example of great architectural detail from the Parisians. Although I’m not religious, I do find church buildings and cathedrals rather spectacular as a building to look at.

I think having such a short space of time to explore a whole city is asking a little much, but it does make you prioritise and think what you really want to do. And if you love it so much you can always visit again! Topdeck acts as a chance to see loads of countries and if you fall in love with a place, like I did with Switzerland (my next post!), it’ll make you so determined to head back!