When people name the top 5 cities in the world, Paris is always one of them. Paris, to me, is a city that I have always had a special connection with because I grew up listening to French chanson music and reading French literature. My first trip to Paris was incredible, but I also learned that, like any city, it can be full of tourist traps. Nonetheless, I firmly believe that a traveler’s bucket list must include Paris at least once in their life. Here’s why:
Paris is home to incredible landmarks. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame de Paris, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, Sacré-Coeur, the River Seine. Of course, these are what you think of when Paris comes to your mind, but the opportunity to see them in person can truly be once in a lifetime. The moment you walk down the Champs-Elysées or stand beneath the enormity of the Eiffel Tour is breathtaking. Notre Dame has such an abundance of history, and it doesn’t get much better than the Louvre for art lovers.
While these landmarks can sometimes carry ridiculous fees and ticket prices, they are free to visit from the outside. To avoid any tourist traps, carefully research the hours, prices, and which ones you’ll want to visit inside.
Remember: if you’re perfectly content taking a picture in front of the Eiffel Tower, then there’s no reason to spend 25 euros to go to the top.
Parisians know how to eat. The number of cafes in Paris is absolutely absurd. Their croissants melt in your mouth, the cheese and chocolate are to die for, wine is in abundance, and pastries are everywhere. Spend some time trying everything that Paris has to offer. When in doubt, seek out the Mom and Pop place rather than the big chain that looks flashy from the outside. Though it may take a few days to find these more local restaurants, you’ll immediately know you’ve done it when you’re suddenly enjoying the best food of your life.
Paris is full of history. If you paid attention during any of your school’s European history classes, you know how significant French rulers were to Paris. The history of Paris is everywhere, but the museums, architecture, and culture are only the beginning. So, where’s the best place to find it? The people. While you’re in Paris, be sure to engage with the locals. They know the city best and can provide a window into their coveted culture. The best part of engaging with locals is that they can often provide the best recommendations that steer you clear of tourist traps and instead keeps you wining and dining with the best the city has to offer.
Overall, I recommend visiting Paris with this savvy approach in mind. Visit the famous landmarks but forego the expensive ticket options if you’re not dying to do them (they can be overrated). Enjoy lots of local food at local places and speak to local people. Make Paris local to you and have an incredible experience!
This is a guest post.
Madrid is a walkable city with a great history and even better food. This is a place you can tackle in just a couple days and really feel like you did it well. Below are the must-sees and must-dos of Spain’s capital!
Madrid is well-known for two of its museums. The Reina Sofia Museum and the Prado Museum. The Reina Sofia Museum houses La Guernica by Picasso, so it’s often on the list of every traveler that heads to Madrid and for good reason. These vast museums are incredible options for anyone (especially beginners) who wants to learn more about European art history. Although the tickets can be a bit pricey, if you’re a student, be sure to bring your student ID. This museum is free for all students under 25 years of age as long as you present a student ID and a second photo ID as well (passport for those who are not Spanish citizens). The Prado Museum is the main national art museum and also offers a wide variety of European art collections. Admission here is also free for students under 25 with a student ID and a second form. The Royal Palace, while not a museum, is also a place of significance and history. Be sure to book this one ahead of time and skip the lengthy line that forms outside the palace gate.
Spanish food has something for everyone thanks to their favorite way to eat: tapas! Be sure to enjoy tapas more than once so you can get a feel for all the options of Spanish cuisine. Paella, jamón, montaditos (mini sandwiches) and patatas bravas are common to see on any tapas menu. Tapas are the perfect sample size so order some for the whole table and try them all. After dinner, if you’re looking for dessert, head to Chocolateria San Gines for churros. This spot has been open since 1894 and often has a line out the door. Stroll the city with churro and chocolate in hand or take a seat inside and enjoy the experience.
Although you can do Madrid quickly and efficiently, you won’t want for activities while you’re there. Puerta del Sol Square and Plaza Mayor are both main centers within the city. In Puerta del Sol, you’ll be able to find the plaque for the Center of Spain. If you’re looking to lighten your pockets, head to Gran Via, a large shopping street. Parque del Retiro and Temple Debod are both awesome opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Parque del Retiro offers the opportunity to row boats on their little lake for 6 euros for 45 minutes. If you’re in Madrid when it’s warm, this is a must do! I’d also recommend hitting Temple Debod right around sunset. You can’t beat the view.
Madrid is the perfect stop for a weekend trip because of its size. It isn’t quite as sprawling as Barcelona and offers many activities in a tight vicinity. Decide what you’re most interested in and go for it—just make sure you enjoy some of the best food in the world along the way and you’ll be good to go!
This is a guest post.
My name is Cindy, also rhymes with travel junkie. A friend said I was probably a gipsy in my previous life. One of my many secret missions in life is to convert you to run off every once in awhile.
