Paris. Just the name evokes images of romance, art, and iconic landmarks. My husband and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing this enchanting city, and let me tell you, it exceeded all expectations!
Our adventure began in the chic 16th arrondissement, staying at the elegant Le Dokhan’s hotel. From there, we set out to discover the Place du Trocadéro, a sprawling plaza directly across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower.
An Unforgettable First Evening
The Place du Trocadéro is a bustling hub of activity, with children playing, delicious smells wafting from crêpe stands, and crowds of people snapping photos. But the real star of the show was the Eiffel Tower, standing majestically in the distance.
The moment I saw “La Dame de Fer” bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, I felt a surge of excitement. It was truly a “pinch me, I’m in Paris” moment! The Trocadéro gardens provided a grand stage for the Eiffel Tower, and it felt as though we were witnessing a theatrical performance.
And then, the magic truly began. As the sky darkened, the Eiffel Tower transformed into a dazzling spectacle. Thousands of lights blinked on and off in a synchronized dance, known as the “Illuminations”. The effect was mesmerizing, a breathtaking display of light and beauty.
The view from the top of the Trocadéro steps was even more impressive, but the crowds made taking photos a challenge. Instead, I captured the beauty of the Palais de Chaillot, a grand building with striking symmetry, built for the 1937 World’s Fair.
A Night on Scooters
After a delicious dinner at Le Grand Café Capucines, a traditional French seafood restaurant, our friend, a spirited 22-year-old, suggested we rent scooters and explore Paris by night. Although I was hesitant, we decided to give it a go, moving slowly through the city streets.
Our first stop was the Louvre, which was absolutely stunning under the night sky. We continued on, passing the magnificent Palais Garnier, the Paris Opera House, before cruising along the Seine River.
The Eiffel Tower soon appeared in the distance, a beacon of light against the backdrop of the night sky. We parked our scooters and simply enjoyed the breathtaking view, the twinkling lights of the tower reflected in the serene waters of the Seine. It was a perfect moment, peaceful and intimate, with just the three of us: my husband, our friend, and the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Culinary Delights and Hidden Gems
We enjoyed a delightful dinner at Le Procope, a charming bistro recommended by a Parisian friend. This is a place where locals go to enjoy classic French cuisine, like Duck Confit and Coq au Vin.
On our way to dinner, we took a Metro ride, crossing the Seine River on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. This bridge offered yet another spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower, the twinkling lights of the river, and the cityscape behind. Even a simple Metro ride can feel magical in Paris!
Rooftop Views and Special Cocktails
In search of a special cocktail experience, our concierge at Le Dokhan’s suggested we visit the rooftop bar at the Peninsula Paris. This stunning hotel has a fascinating history, serving as a field hospital in World War I and later as the headquarters for the German high command during the war.
The hotel’s rooftop bar, called “Le Rooftop,” offers panoramic views of the city. To the west, you can see Montmartre, and to the east, the Eiffel Tower. The Arc de Triomphe is just a short walk away, providing another breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower.
Le Rooftop is pricey, with a minimum spend of €26 per person, but it is worth every penny for a truly special cocktail experience.
A Dinner Cruise on the Seine
A dinner cruise on the Seine is a must-do for any visitor to Paris. We chose Bateaux Parisiens, hoping to enjoy the city’s beauty from the river at night. While we didn’t get a clear view of the Eiffel Tower until the end of our cruise, it was well worth the wait.
The tower, glistening in the moonlight, reflected in the water, was truly spectacular. Even with a few raindrops falling, it was a magical moment that we’ll never forget.
A City of Magic and Memories
Our trip to Paris was filled with unforgettable experiences, each one more magical than the last. From breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower to charming Parisian bistros and a romantic evening on the Seine, Paris offered a symphony of sights, sounds, and experiences that will forever be etched in our memories. It’s a city that truly captures the heart, a place where romance, history, and beauty intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.
