Our Parisian adventure began with a stay at the elegant Le Dokhan’s hotel in the 16th arrondissement. Eager to catch our first glimpse of the iconic Eiffel Tower, we embarked on a leisurely stroll towards the Place du Trocadero, a grand plaza brimming with life. The air buzzed with excitement as children soared paper helicopters, the aroma of freshly made crepes wafted through the air, and cameras clicked incessantly. As we reached the edge of the esplanade, a breathtaking panorama unfolded before our eyes. The Jardins du Trocadero resembled a majestic stage, with the Eiffel Tower taking center stage, its silhouette illuminated against the twilight sky. It was a moment of pure enchantment, a “pinch me, I’m in Paris” experience. From this vantage point, we understood why so many consider it the prime location for admiring the tower’s beauty.
As darkness descended, the tower transformed into a dazzling spectacle. Thousands of lights flickered rhythmically in a five-minute display known as “Illuminations,” which happens every hour from dusk till 1 am. We were fortunate to witness this mesmerizing show, a symphony of light that captivated our senses. A powerful beam, extending up to 80 kilometers, further enhanced the tower’s allure. Our gaze drifted towards the terrace’s end, where a sweeping staircase led down to the Trocadero Gardens and the Seine River. The view from here was even more captivating, though the throngs of tourists made capturing a perfect photograph a challenge.
We turned our attention to the Palais de Chaillot, a majestic structure built for the 1937 World’s Fair, which also gave birth to the Trocadero Gardens. Its symmetrical wings, adorned with golden statues, exuded a timeless grandeur. Housing three museums and a restaurant, the Palais beckoned for exploration during the daylight hours. The temptation to descend the steps and stroll through the enchanting Jardins du Trocadero, with its cascading fountains, was strong. However, overcome by jet lag, we retreated to our hotel, leaving the promise of the gardens for another day. This first evening in Paris had already etched itself into our hearts.
Exploring Paris by Night: A Romantic Scooter Ride
The following evening, we met a friend for dinner at Le Grand Café Capucines, a traditional French seafood restaurant. Our friend, a sprightly 22-year-old, suggested renting scooters for a nocturnal exploration of Paris’s iconic sites. Though I initially hesitated, intrigued by the adventure, I agreed to give it a try. Our first stop was the Louvre Museum, its majestic facade illuminated against the night sky. It was a surreal experience to witness this architectural masterpiece without the usual daytime crowds. Our scooter journey continued to the elegant Palais Garnier, the opulent Paris opera house.
As we navigated the path along the Seine’s right bank, the Eiffel Tower emerged in the distance, a beacon of Parisian charm. Passing the majestic Le Grand Palais, we decided to take a break from our scooter ride. While exhilarating, I found the scooters nerve-wracking, and I wouldn’t recommend them for everyone, especially in a city as bustling as Paris. Nevertheless, we captured some delightful photographs with the Eiffel Tower as our backdrop.
A Parisian Serenade: The Eiffel Tower’s Reflections
The Seine unfolded before us, its surface shimmering with the reflection of the Eiffel Tower’s twinkling lights. We parked our scooters near the Pont de l’Alma, a picturesque bridge spanning the river, and took in the breathtaking panorama. The right bank of the Seine proved to be the perfect vantage point for an intimate encounter with the Eiffel Tower. We were far enough away to appreciate its grandeur yet close enough to feel its presence. The gentle sway of boats and the twinkling lights on the river added to the romantic ambiance. It felt like we had this enchanting scene all to ourselves.
We couldn’t resist snapping a few photos, capturing our Parisian trio: me, my husband Sean, and the iconic La Tour Eiffel. For anyone seeking a similar experience, I highly recommend a leisurely stroll along the Right Bank. If time is limited, start at the Pont Alexander. And for those who prefer a quick view, hop off at the Alma Marceau Metro station and amble down to the Seine for a picturesque setting and photo opportunities.
A Culinary Delight: Parisian Classics at Le Procope
Our Parisian journey led us to Le Procope, a renowned bistro recommended by a Parisian friend. This historic establishment, with its charming ambiance, exuded a genuine Parisian spirit, attracting both locals and visitors alike. We indulged in a delectable meal, savoring classic Parisian dishes like Duck Confit or Coq au Vin. To reach Le Procope, we took a ride on Metro line 6, which crosses the Seine on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. This bridge offered a remarkable vista of the Eiffel Tower and the river’s illuminated banks. The surprise of this unexpected view made it one of my favorite glimpses of the tower during our trip. Even a simple Metro ride can be a magical experience in Paris.
A Splendid Rooftop Oasis: Cocktails at The Peninsula Paris
Seeking a special cocktail experience, we sought guidance from our concierge at Le Dokhan’s. He recommended The Peninsula Paris, a luxurious hotel boasting a rich history. From serving as a field hospital during World War I to housing the German high command during the occupation, the hotel has witnessed significant historical events. Its rooftop bar, “Le Rooftop,” situated on the 6th floor, offers a breathtaking view of Paris’s 16th arrondissement. In one direction, Montmartre’s iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands proudly, while the other reveals the Eiffel Tower in all its glory. Just around the corner, the Arc de Triomphe beckons with its own panoramic vista of the Eiffel Tower. Though “Le Rooftop” comes with a minimum spend of 26€ per person, it’s an investment in a truly unique and special cocktail experience. In a city like Paris, these little splurges are worth every penny.
A Romantic Conclusion: Dinner Cruise on the Seine
Having enjoyed a daytime Seine River cruise on a previous trip, I decided to experience the magic of a dinner cruise with Bateaux Parisiens. We embarked on this romantic journey, hoping to savor stunning views of Paris from the river’s embrace. While the pier was located close to the Eiffel Tower, the cruise initially sailed away from it. However, the wait was well worth it, as we were treated to a spectacular view of the tower towards the end of our cruise. Even a slight drizzle on this September evening couldn’t dampen the allure of the scene. The Eiffel Tower, shimmering on the Seine’s banks, looked like a mirage. Its reflection on the water added to the enchantment, making our farewell to the city a truly unforgettable experience.
