Is it possible to see Paris in a day? No, but we were determined to see as much as we could. The Italians were coming (my Italian’s family that is) and we had only three days to introduce them to the city we call home. Their first visit. Their first flight. And so many more firsts (little did they know!)
The best, most relaxing (not to mention romantic) way to tour Paris is by boat. More precisely, the Batobus. Unlimited transportation for the day, stopping at eight destinations, at a mere 13 euro (a Privilege fee of 9 euro if you hold a Pass Navigo). I have often seen this vehicle coasting up and down the Seine, transporting an array of international tourists to it’s various stops. Now it was time to become one of them. And happily so! I hope to never stop viewing Paris with the eyes of a tourist.
It was a gorgeous sunny day. In other words, Perfect ‘fall in love with Paris’ weather. We boarded the boat at Hôtel de Ville, Paris’ City Hall. From there we headed along the Seine, first stop Eiffel Tower.
What could be more spectacular than the view of Paris from a height of nearly 1,000 feet?
From there we walked through the Parc du Champ de Mars, dined in a nearby bistro and resumed our tour by boat. Next stop the Jardin des Tuileries beneath a clear blue sky. Magical.
And yes, the Louvre. A quick stop to admire the architecture. The masterpieces would have to wait.
Back on the boat to enjoy the views of my favorite part of Paris, and one of the oldest, île de la Cité.
This island is the home of Notre Dame and here we disembarked as the sun was getting ready to set.
Much more of Paris remained to be seen in the two days ahead. The next tour would be by subway and foot. As we had suspected, the Italians were enamored. Wait until they discovered Versailles…
They had such fabulous weather for their first trip! Sometimes having little time means making the most of a new city!
The weather was incredible!! I’m still impressed with how much we showed them in only 3 days (and one of those was spent in Versailles).
A day well spent…..and a fabulous introduction to Paris. I hope they enjoyed their trip. xv
Simply put, they are in love with Paris. Hard not to be!
What a visit! Looks like you really wowed them! 🙂
I wowed myself too! It’s great fun being a tourist 😉
Pretty pictures of a beautiful city 🙂 Paris in Pink
I tried doing Paris in 3 days….a year couldn’t do the city justice!
Kasia, did you take all of those photos?? They look like (or, they’re as pretty as) postcards! Well done! xo
Yes, and I took many more! I don’t think I will ever stop photographing Paris…
Thanks for this post Kasia! I want to do all I can to enjoy Paris before I leave it and this comes in handy. I’m determined to like Paris, darnit!
Paris is a tough city in many ways but there is something so uniquely romantic and magical about it’s light and architecture…enjoy your last weeks! And take the Batobus 🙂
whatever amount of time you spend in paris… its never long enough.
Great photos of what must’ve been a great day! Next time I have short term guests, I’m letting you handle them. 🙂
Hmmm… might not be so bad spending my days touring along the Seine. Let me think about it 😉
ahhhhh this is making me seriously consider applying to Sciences Po for my dual degree next year! oh Paris. 🙂
Good plan Wendy! From Cameroon to London to Paris to…
[…] by Kasia on October 20, 2010 TweetWhile the Italians were in town we took them to Versailles. Just in case they weren’t thoroughly impressed from day one in Paris. […]
I think we must have crossed paths a few times…such a gorgeous day!!
[…] 5. August is a perfect time to play the role of tourist, regardless if you live in Paris or not. Hop on the batobus and let the fun begin! You can almost see Paris in a day. […]
Lovely post Kasia! It’s always (usually) such a treat to show family members this awesome city. I love your quote about wanting to always see Paris through tourist eyes. I feel the same!