Paris is a city you don’t just visit — you experience it. It’s not about ticking off a checklist. It’s all about the rhythm, walking, and taking breaks. Our trip in 2024 was mostly on foot — the best choice we made.
By Katerina Christofi
The city is laid out like a snail shell. As you walk, neighborhoods, parks, avenues, and monuments appear. That’s how our little travel tradition started: street photographers take spontaneous shots and give them to you for a small donation. Now, we look for them in every European city.
Walking Paris — Discover the city step by step
The first thing you notice is how Paris invites you to walk. Wide streets, beautiful buildings, cafes on every corner, and small parks between museums and monuments. There’s no need to hurry — actually, the slower you go, the more you see.
It’s a city where getting a bit lost is part of the fun.
Facts:
- The modern layout of Paris was mainly designed in the 19th century by Baron Haussmann.
- The wide avenues were made for light and air — and for controlling the city.
- Most central attractions are within walking distance.
Eiffel Tower — Where the city becomes an emotion
You see it from far away many times before getting close — but standing beneath it shows its true size. When night falls and it starts sparkling with lights, everything changes. People stop, look up, and smile.
This isn’t a cliché — it’s an experience.
Facts:
- Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair.
- Height: ~330 meters including the antenna.
- Originally had a 20-year permit — it was meant to be torn down.
- Now one of the most visited monuments in the world.
Cruise on the Seine — Relaxation with history
A short cruise on the Seine was one of our most relaxing experiences. After lots of walking, sitting down and watching the city float by felt perfect.
Facts:
- The Seine is about 777 km long.
- The banks in central Paris are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Over 30 historic bridges cross it within the city.
Angelina — The famous ‘melted’ chocolate
We visited Angelina for their famous hot chocolate — and yes, it’s not just any chocolate. It’s a mix of different melted chocolates, thick and rich — almost something to eat rather than drink.
The line was about 15 minutes but moved fast. Inside, it’s so elegant that it feels like stepping into another era — think Bridgerton vibes.
Facts:
- Founded in 1903.
- A favorite spot for artists and fashion designers.
- The signature chocolate is called “L’Africain”.
- This chocolate is one of the most famous worldwide.
Louvre & Mona Lisa — Among thousands of works
Of course, we went to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Lots of people, a small painting — but what a moment! The museum is so huge that if you don’t have a plan, you’ll get worn out.
Facts:
- The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world.
- It used to be a royal palace before becoming a museum.
- The Mona Lisa was stolen in 1911 and found two years later.
- The glass pyramid was added in 1989.
- Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806.
- Below lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- From above you can see 12 avenues radiating outwards.
- Place du Tertre—historic artist square.
Versailles — And then…the Hall of Mirrors
You walk through thinking “there can’t be more”—and then there is! The room with mirrors was our favorite—a true wow moment. Light, reflection, gold—a pure royal display.
Facts:
• Palace of Louis XIV.
• Over 2,000 rooms.
• Hall of Mirrors = site where historic treaties were signed.
Arc de Triomphe—Center of radial city
Standing under the Arc de Triomphe makes you feel the city’s layout. Avenues spread out around it—an impressive sight.
Facts:
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur—Romance with a view
Climbing Montmartre changes your view of Paris. It feels more artistic and human. At Sacré-Cœur we placed a love locket—a truly romantic moment. The view, musicians playing, people relaxing on steps—just enjoying life.
Facts:
• An artist neighborhood for over a century.
• Basilica completed in 1914.
• One of the highest points in the city.
Place du Tertre—Living art before your eyes
We visited at noon. The square was filled with easels, half-finished portraits, and artists watching with an ‘artistic eye’. We didn’t get a portrait—but if your budget allows it’s worth it. The artwork was truly amazing. It’s not just a tourist trap—it’s living creation.
Every frame tells a story.
