Paris, the City of Lights, is a place where romance and history intertwine. From the Eiffel Tower‘s majestic presence to the charm of Le Procope, a Parisian bistro with a rich history, the city offers a captivating experience.
A Grand View from Trocadéro
Our first glimpse of the Iron Lady (the Eiffel Tower) was from the Place du Trocadéro, a spacious plaza on the Right Bank, directly across the Seine from the tower. It was a scene straight out of a movie – children frolicking with paper helicopters, the aroma of freshly made crepes, and a sea of tourists capturing the moment.
The Jardins du Trocadéro provided a grand setting, like an open-air theatre with the Eiffel Tower taking centre stage. The tower glowed magnificently against the evening sky, a true “pinch me, I’m in Paris” moment.
As if on cue, the Eiffel Tower came alive with a mesmerizing light show called “Illuminations”. Thousands of lights danced in a dramatic sequence, accompanied by a powerful beam of light reaching an incredible 80 kilometres. The spectacle was breathtaking.
A Night on Scooters
Our adventurous spirit led us on a scooter adventure through the night. The Louvre, adorned in moonlight, was a sight to behold, devoid of its usual crowds. We continued our journey, passing the stunning Palais Garnier, the Paris opera house.
As we followed the Seine’s right bank, the Eiffel Tower reappeared in the distance, its twinkling lights reflected in the water. The view from the Pont de l’Alma (Alma Bridge) was especially captivating, providing a perfect vantage point to admire the tower’s grandeur.
A Romantic Dinner and a Metro Surprise
Dinner at Le Procope, a Parisian bistro with a storied past, was a delightful experience. We indulged in classic French cuisine, savouring the flavours of Paris.
Our return journey on the Metro offered an unexpected treat. As the Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Bir-Hakeim Bridge) crossed the Seine, we were greeted with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower and the illuminated river. The unexpected beauty of the scene made it one of my favourite Eiffel Tower views of the trip.
Cocktails with a View
For a special cocktail experience, we headed to The Peninsula Paris, a stunning hotel with a rich history. The Le Rooftop bar, perched on the hotel’s 6th floor, offered panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the Arc de Triomphe. While the bar is on the pricier side, the experience is well worth the splurge.
A Dinner Cruise under the Stars
A dinner cruise on the Seine provided a unique perspective of the city’s beauty. While the initial part of the cruise took us away from the Eiffel Tower, the wait was well worth it. As the cruise approached its end, the tower emerged in all its glory, its reflection shimmering in the water. It was a magical ending to an unforgettable Parisian evening.
A City of Endless Charm
Paris, a city of lights, love, and history, offers a truly captivating experience. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, exploring Parisian bistros, or enjoying a special cocktail with a view, the city has something to enchant every visitor. From the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower to the enchanting streets of Montmartre, Paris is a city that leaves a lasting impression on the heart and soul.