What can I do in Paris during a 48 hour layover?
If you have a stopover in the city of love, you may be wondering: “What can I do in Paris in 48 hours?”. A short stay in Paris can be a wonderful opportunity to see famous monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Roue de Paris, enjoy traditional French cuisine or walk along the Champs Elysées or the Seine River. The best time to visit Paris is spring, but each season in the city has its charms. Winter visits mean warm fireplaces in cozy bistros and fine French wine and fall allows you to enjoy the fall leaves along the Seine. If you are wondering what to do on your short visit to the city, here are some great ideas:
Must visit attractions in Paris
Probably the most famous landmark in Paris, the magnificent Eiffel Tower is visited by millions of people each year. The tower is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel and is built from wrought-iron lattice-work. Located on the Champ de Mars it is nicknamed “La dame de fer”, or the Iron Lady. It was built from 1887 to 1889 for the 1889 World’s Fair and is most certainly well worth visiting when in Paris. The world-famous Louvre Museum houses some of France’s most important artwork and historic artifacts. You will find it on the banks of the Seine River and will be able to view 38,000 objects from pre-history to the 21st century.
Take the perfect snap
The Arc de Triomphe is probably one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Take a selfie with friends or family at the base of this magnificent structure or walking up the Champs-Élysées to Place Charles de Gaulle. The arc and plaza are located on the 16th, 17th, and 8th arrondissements in Paris and were built to honor soldiers who fought and died for France in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary Wars. The majestic structure makes a perfect backdrop for a selfie! The Roue de Paris is a 60 meters tall Ferris Wheel in the Tuileries garden that can seat eight people in one of 32 booths and completes two turns on each trip. It’s a great place to take a striking Paris photograph!
Things to see in Paris
Paris has many beautifully designed and manicured parks along the Seine River where you can enjoy summer picnics and slow walks. Walking and cycling are popular along the left bank. The Tuileries gardens feature flowerbeds with geometric patterns, adorned by statues. This famous garden dates back to the 17th century. The lovely flowers in the Luxembourg gardens in spring and summer are also well worth a visit. Avid cyclists can enjoy the many wooded trails in the Bois de Boulogne park located in what was once a royal hunting ground. Stroll through the bustling city and marvel at the romantic aspects of the French capital!
Try local dishes in Paris
Paris has been the center of haute cuisine for centuries and this haute cuisine tradition means there is no shortage of tasty foods to sample. From the best in gourmet restaurants, such as L’Astrance, which has received three Michelin stars, to the best in bistros and cozy cafes selling the best in French pastries, Paris offers the ultimate dining experience. Stroll the Parisian walkways and stop for coffee and baguettes, a selection of fondant creations, eclairs and macarons while taking in the sights and sounds of the “City of Light”. Be sure to try the delicious Soupe à l’oignon, boeuf bourguignon, soufflés, cassoulet, coq au vin and Nicoise salad.
Things to buy in Paris
Many dream of shopping in the most fashion-conscious city in the world, and indeed, Paris is a shopper’s paradise. Haute couture is readily available in central Paris and the Champs Elysees is one of the most famous streets in the world for haute couture and designer names. Once you have some fashion in your travel bag, stock up on the famous Parisian Reblochon cheese, French wines, pick up some gifts at Marche-aux-Puces, and go shopping at Bouquinistes. Don’t forget to stock up on fine chocolates and sweets, as well as Picasso’s best mini art souvenirs. Famous shopping streets include Rue Saint-Honoré, Boulevard Haussmann, and Avenue Montaigne in the Golden Triangle.
