Paris, the City of Love, has always been a special place for us. This time, we wanted a different kind of Parisian experience, one filled with leisurely strolls, delicious food, and a touch of luxury. We were looking for a relaxed honeymoon vibe, a far cry from our previous whirlwind trips.
Parisian Splendor and a Touch of Luxury
For this trip, we decided to treat ourselves to some gorgeous accommodations. We chose a newly-renovated boutique hotel in the 8th arrondissement, a district known for its elegant avenues and iconic landmarks. We were also lucky enough to add an extra night at a charming hotel near the Église Saint-Augustin, adding to the overall Parisian experience. This time, we wanted to savor the moments, rather than rushing from one landmark to the next. Our itinerary was flexible, allowing us to explore at our own pace.
Sunset at the Arc de Triomphe and a Romantic Evening
Our journey began with a breathtaking sunset from the Arc de Triomphe, one of Dan’s must-see sights from our previous visit. The views of La Défense, the city’s business district, were absolutely stunning. After leaving the Arc, we strolled down the Champs-Élysées, a first for both of us, and picked up champagne and dinner, savoring the Parisian atmosphere. What a perfect start to our honeymoon!
Montmartre Magic and a Peaceful Protest
Our first full day in Paris was filled with Montmartre’s charm. We enjoyed a picnic lunch outside the Sacré-Cœur, marveling at the beautiful mosaics and intricate details inside the basilica. The peaceful protest by the “Yellow Jackets” provided a glimpse into the city’s current events. We spent the afternoon wandering through the romantic streets and parks of Montmartre, a truly magical experience. This neighborhood captured our hearts, with its pastel shutters, ivy-covered buildings, and public gardens bursting with flowers. It felt like a scene straight out of a fairytale!
Parisian Dining and a Bit of Frustration
We found that the restaurant hours in Paris can be a bit tricky, especially on the weekends. We ended up having a rather ordinary dinner in Saint-Germain, but it didn’t dampen our spirits. The city’s allure and charm remained undeniable, and we embraced the unexpected twists and turns that came our way.
Disneyland Paris and a Touch of Déjà Vu
Our trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Disneyland Paris, a place we’d talked about before leaving. We decided to keep our itinerary flexible, enjoying the freedom to explore at our own pace. We were excited about a day trip to Giverny, but we wanted to see how we felt once we were actually in Paris.
A Parisian Oasis: The Hôtel & Spa Royal Madeleine
Our hotel, the Hôtel & Spa Royal Madeleine, was a luxurious haven. The stylish rooms, complete with large windows, provided a sense of Parisian elegance. We enjoyed the hotel’s pool and spa, a welcome respite after long days of exploring the city. The hotel’s fantastic location made it easy to access many of the city’s highlights.
Parisian Delights: A Perfect Blend of Food, Culture, and History
The charm of Paris lay in its blend of food, culture, and history. We indulged in traditional French dishes like veal, duck, and beef tartare, relishing the al fresco dining experience. Our visit to Notre Dame, although under construction, was a reminder of the city’s resilience. We also stumbled upon a poignant memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, a reminder of the city’s complex history.
The Paris Magic
Paris is a city that continues to captivate us. We found ourselves drawn to the city’s romantic streets, delicious food, and afternoons spent wandering without any obligations. Our honeymoon in Paris was a perfect escape, a chance to relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories.
Stay tuned for Part Two of our Paris trip recap, where we share our adventures at Disneyland Paris and our day trips outside the city!
