Bonjour! My first time to Paris was actually 2 weeks ago, and I’ve compiled a list of must-do tourist activities. I was only in Paris for about a week, but you will need more time than that to hit all of the major landmarks and historical sites. Paris is magical, and I hope everyone has the chance to go at least once in their lifetime.

• The Louvre – There are a few nights each week when The Louvre is open until 10PM. I recommend going during the evening and shutting the place down. I celebrated my 26th birthday here, and it was my favorite activity during our trip. I know… It seems weird to really enjoy a museum, but it was magnificent. We saw everything from the Mona Lisa to Napoleon’s ornate, over-the-top apartment (decorated with no less than 25 chandeliers). I recommend walking The Louvre with an audioguide handy. There are several kiosks where these can be rented.

• Eiffel Tower at Night – The views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are incredible; the entire city is glowing at night. It was fairly cold when we went mid-November, but I imagine it’s perfect during the middle of the summer. At the very top of the Eiffel Tower you can catch a glimpse of Gustav Eiffel’s private apartment (the architect and genius behind the Eiffel Tower’s creation). You can also buy a glass of champagne on the top floor and share a toast while looking out over the city.

• Notre Dame Cathedral – After finishing our walking tour of the inside, Kellin and I climbed the outer towers to the very top. We watched the sun set on the city and the gargoyles that line the top of the cathedral.

• Parisien Bateaux Dinner Cruise – Our first night in Paris we did a dinner cruise on the waterway. We passed under the Pont Alexandre III bridge, and saw multiple major landmarks – Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Grand Palace, and more. The dinner was great and the wine was bottomless. This was a fun way to kick off our trip.

• Palace of Versailles – This palace is located about 30 minutes out of the city, but worth the drive. We spent about an hour touring the inside of the palace, and another 3-4 hours outside roaming the gardens. The fountains are unique and the gardens are perfectly kept. The attention to detail was incredible. There are shops, restaurants, and ice cream kiosks all over the grounds. You can also purchase separate tickets to the Hall of Mirrors and Marie Antoinette’s home. This one will be an all day affair.

Until next time – au revoir!