Travel Diaries: Paris (Spring 2026)
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- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Dancing under the Eiffel Tower.
Paris is a city that invites exploration at every corner, and we made the most of our four-day trip by packing in as many experiences as possible. Staying in the impressive 8th Arrondissement, we found a perfect base to dive into the heart of Parisian culture, cuisine, and history. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, our journey gives a vivid snapshot of what a short but full visit to Paris can look like!
Staying at Hotel Prince de Galles
We chose the Prince de Galles hotel for our stay. This area is known for its luxury shops, historic avenues, and proximity to many top Paris sights. The hotel itself blends classic Parisian style with modern comfort, offering us a restful retreat after long days of sightseeing.
The location made it easy for us to explore on foot or by short metro rides. The charm of this neighborhood lies in the feeling of being in the center of Parisian life without the overwhelming crowds found in more tourist-heavy districts.
Flavors of Paris: Ladurée and Café Flora
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in several culinary delights! We started our first morning at Ladurée, famous worldwide for its macarons. We also recommend trying the French toast and hot chocolate here, which we found to be some of the best in the city. And we're true hot chocolate snobs, so that's saying a lot! The combination of delicate pastries and rich drinks made for a perfect Parisian breakfast. Brice was totally in his element here.
Photos courtesy of dreamstime.com and haussmann.galerieslafayette.com.
Ladurée is an absolute must-try when visiting Paris!
For brunch one day, we visited Café Flora, where everything we ate was divine. But the real show stopper? The croissants at a local grocery that were absolutely out of this world. These were some of our favorite carbs of the whole trip! lol Who wouldn't want to eat a croissant the size of your head?!
Café Flora did not disappoint!
Exploring Parisian Streets and Shops
One of the highlights of our trip was discovering Louise Carmen, a charming stationery store. For a stationary enthusiast, this place was a dream! If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind gift to bring back to friends or loved ones from Paris, we would recommend this stop, especially for those who appreciate beautiful paper goods and unique writing materials. It’s a reminder that Paris offers treasures beyond the usual tourist spots.
We also found inspiration in the doors of Paris. The city’s architecture tells so many stories through all of its intricate doorways, each with its own character and history. We shared some of these discoveries on our Instagram, capturing the essence of Parisian design.
Iconic Sightseeing: Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame
The Arc de Triomphe was a must-see for us. Standing at eye level beneath this monumental arch, we admired its detailed sculptures and sweeping views from every angle. It’s a powerful symbol of French history and a perfect spot for photos (minus this stupid truck in the pic).
Total building nerds and architecture enthusiasts at the Arc de Triomphe.
The Eiffel Tower needs no introduction. We visited during the day and again at night when the tower sparkles with thousands of lights. The experience of seeing Paris from a river boat cruise on the Seine is unforgettable and everything we hoped it would be.
Eiffel Tower by day and by night. A dream at any time of day.
At Notre Dame, we were deeply moved by the architecture. The cathedral’s gothic design and intricate details inspired us, even as restoration work continues. It’s a place that connects visitors to centuries of Parisian faith and artistry. The construction and design of this landmark is just incredible.
We will never not be impressed by the intricate, immaculate details of Notre Dame.
A Warm Visit to The Louvre and Napoleon’s Apartment
The Louvre is vast, and we found it helpful to focus on highlights. Not sure if it's always warm inside, but we found it almost uncomfortably warm, so be aware of that before your trip. The line for the Mona Lisa was long, but seeing the famous painting in person was a memorable moment.
Our favorite part of the museum was Napoleon’s apartment. The lavish rooms and historical artifacts offered us a glimpse into the life of one of France’s most famous leaders. It’s a quieter area of the Louvre that often gets overlooked but is well worth the visit.
The Louvre was fun, but very warm inside! We welcomed the fresh air for picture taking outside.
Dining at Pink Mama: A Taste of Italy in Paris
For dinner on our last night, we chose Pink Mamma, an Italian restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a Parisian twist, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The quality of the food and the lively setting made it a standout dining experience.
Delicious food at Pink Mamma!
Our trip to Paris was nothing short of magical, filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking sights. From wandering the cobblestone streets to savoring delectable pastries at quaint cafés, every experience added a unique layer to our adventure.
The rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture left an indelible mark on our hearts. As we reflect on our time in the City of Light, we are grateful for the memories we created and the stories we'll have forever. Until our next journey, we carry a piece of Paris with us, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that travel brings.
Til next time,
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