Welcome to our Trtl Trails: 48 Hours series, where we explore exciting cities around the world in the space of just two days. We’re packing in as much as possible, while still leaving room to wander freely and stumble across little bars, cafés, boutiques, street art, and more.

 

City breaks are a great way to explore somewhere new when you’re strapped for time, but it does add pressure to hit up every famous monument before you leave. Whether you’re traveling to Paris and back again in a short space of time or taking a longer break to explore as much of Europe as possible, take a look through our recommendations for inspiration.

 

8 of The Best Things to Do in Paris:

 

The Louvre:

An obvious choice for a reason. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and you can purchase advanced tickets or a Museum Pass to save time. Plan which pieces you want to see to make sure you don’t leave disappointed – Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory – and take time to appreciate the stunning building these treasures are housed in along the way. Trtl Tip: it’s closed on Tuesdays!

Photo by Michael Fousert on Unsplash

 

Moulin Rouge:

It’s more than just a catchy song and an iconic movie! Despite being a popular tourist destination, the most famous cabaret in the world is still beloved by locals – that’s how you know it’s really worth a visit. Book yourself in for dinner and a show to see 60 can-can dancers perform the synchronized routine of your dreams.

 

Shakespeare & Company:

You don’t have to be a bookworm to appreciate this beautiful and cosy bookstore. Walking through the narrow aisles is like wandering through a maze filled with treasures and musical surprises. Try not to get lost, and make sure to pick up a tote bag to prove you were there!

 

Markets:

Marché des Enfants Rouges gets its name from a 16^th century orphanage and is the oldest market in Paris! Drop by for a range of international cuisines, including North African, Asian, and European delicacies. Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen is considered to be the biggest flea market in the world, but make sure to bring cash because there’s only one ATM on the premises.

 

Arc de Triomphe and The Champs-Élysées

A great way to get a photo of the Eiffel Tower is to climb over 280 steps up the Arc de Triomphe. You’ll also get a bird’s-eye view of the famous roundabout which is the meeting point 12 avenues. Drivers have to get special insurance just to cover their cars at this chaotic intersection. From there you can stroll down The Champs-Élysées, doing a little shopping at designer outlets along the way, and stopping for a coffee whenever the need strikes.

Photo by Rodrigo Kugnharski on Unsplash

 

The Seine:

Strolling along this beautiful river is an ideal activity for a short stay – there are no queues, no opening hours, and no need to rush. You can walk along the riverbank whenever you like, stopping at little stalls along the way to pick up a few mementos or gifts for the folks back home. So many movies and TV shows have used this location as a backdrop that you might even feel like you’re starring in your own personal film!

 

Père Lachaise Cemetery:

It might sound morbid to visit a cemetery, but this one is filled with so many recognisable names that it’s basically the French version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This peaceful and tranquil spot is the perfect place to get away from the busy city streets and take a moment to pay your respects to Chopin, Jim Morrison, and Oscar Wilde – just don’t try to kiss his tomb because they’ve put up barriers to prevent that!

 

Galeries Lafayette:

Ready to shop till you drop? There’s only so much culture you can absorb on your two-day trip to Paris. Do some window shopping at this mall in an absolutely breath-taking building, then head up to the roof for a drink with amazing views of the Grand Palais and the Eiffel tower.

 

We know you’ll enjoy your trip to this historic and stunning city. And, if you want to get ahead on your planning and packing, take a look at our highly reviewed Trtl travel products to see how we can help make this the most comfortable journey of your life.