I visited Paris for the first time and saw all the attractions within 12 hours (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
When someone says they only need a day in Paris, trust them. With its sturdy legs and doing, this easy-to-walking city only took 12 hours to see its main attractions and learn about history, but after 10 minutes one iconic sight was overwhelming.
This was my first time in Paris, but as I traveled with friends in Luxembourg who have frequently explored the city, I combined forced me to curate a detailed itinerary. On a full day at Disneyland Paris, on a trip to the Palace of Versailles, we decided not to spend money on entering the other museums, but we would see classic tourist spots. Our hotel is in Paris East and we stopped several times in the metro from our first visit, Centre Pompidou.
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A complete itinerary for a day trip to Paris (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
Le Center Pompidou
Also known as Bee Boogue, the Centre Pompidou is a postmodern, high-tech complex with the largest museum for modern art in Europe. It was built between 1971 and 1977 and was designed by three emerging architects of the time: Renzo Piano, Richard Rogers and Gianfranco Franchini.
Just looking at the outside of the building was amazingly attractive. Designers can take on the idea of a “inside-out” building and see all of its structural systems.
My friend and I sat on a cobblestone hill facing the building and basked in its fascinating glory. It was incredible to see how the building works. My friend described it as “life-size LEGO.”
Tuileries Garden is a must-see free visit (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
Louvre
Our next destination was the Louvre, but along the way we were able to see Notre Dame Cathedral, which is currently under construction since the fire in 2019 and is now reopening to the public. However, I agreed to visit once the restoration work was complete, but its powerful presence felt and abundantly from across the river.
The Louvre was spectacular to witness. Don't be fooled by the glass triangle. The museum is huge, spanning 72,735 square meters and is named the world's largest museum.
As it is a hot spot for overcrowded tourists, we didn't spend long here, so we decided to skip the staring contest with the Mona Lisa. You can spend a day wandering around the entire museum and see timeless historic paintings and sculptures.
We then took a magical walk around Jardinde Stewyri Lee, just next to Louvre. This nature-filled walk is filled with blooming flowers and archaic sculptures so that tourists and locals can float in the pond and sail the small boat for a fun picnic near the calming splash sound from the fountain.
Arc de Triomphe was beautiful walking downstairs. (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
A full walk takes about 35-45 minutes, but we stopped and sat in a complimentary garden chair that is located throughout the park. At the end of our walk we arrived at the location of Dela Concorde, known during the French Revolution as one of the execution sites of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
Arc de Triomphe
Continuing on the history tour, we took the Metro to Ark de Triomphe. The Paris metro can be difficult and as crazy as London, but the map is very easy. Each day's pass cost only 12 euros, which is just over £10.
The Arc de Triomphe was a surreal and powerful place of visit. Within the free walking interior, they lie the names of those who fought for France, especially during the Napoleonic Wars.
The inscription was beautiful, educational and a special way to honor fallen soldiers. A must-read for all tourists.
The Eiffel Tower was overwhelming (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
Eiffel Tower
Our next destination was the Eiffel Tower, a completely overwhelming charm. Please don't get me wrong. I explored Eiffel Tower's previous destinations, so seeing it in the scenery made it better from afar than near.
As we were standing there, I realized that it offered nothing else after the incredible factor of “I'm officially in Paris” worn out. We only stayed about 10 minutes until I surpassed that.
However, I learned that the Eiffel Tower was launched in 1886 for the Universal Competition of the Exposiector in 1889.
Because of its appearance, we first came across mixed reviews, but now it is a major French staple. After spending 5 euros on the sorbet, the rain started falling and we returned to our hotel in Paris East.
Overall, we spent about 5 hours exploring these attractions, resting in the hotel for 3 hours before heading to Moulin Rouge.
The most stunning place I visited was the gardens of the Palace of Versailles. (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
Underrated Must-see Visit
You spend a lot of time walking and go to the main attraction. I would recommend visiting Basilique du Sacris des Montmartre on another day after your feet have rested a little.
This historic Catholic church is located on a major hill, but you can spend a few euros on taking Montmartre sex (like a train/elevator).
At the top you will be greeted by this stunning all white building. Many visitors either stare at the incredible high-top views of Paris or rest on the stairs outside, adding a padlock from a named enthusiast to the fence on the other side of the church. Head to the cute village next door.
On your way back, stop by the Père-Lachaise Cemetery. Walking through this cemetery was not creepy, but totally charming and etheric. Literacy nerds should visit Oscar Wilde's grave.
I also take my time to visit the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. Exploring what was once a modest hunting lodge built by Louis XIII, which was transformed into a magnificent palace by Louis XIII.
The garden features a fantastic French fountain show, and you'll be thrilled to walk through the stunning 800 hectares of woods.
Alternatively, you can book and explore your own golf car, ride a train that runs through the garden, or grab a tandem bike or paddle on a boat through the spectacular canal.
Don't forget to head half a mile towards the back of the garden to visit the secret village of Marie Antoinette, also known as Queen's Hamlet of Versailles. On your way, I stop by the temple of love, which may have revealed my dream partner (if the city of love helped me find love, I will continue to post you).