Ah, Paris, one of the world’s most historic, romantic and magnetic cities. Regardless of what you think you’ve heard about the French people, there are few places in the world that are more welcoming to travelers. While an extended sojourn in the City of Lights would be fantastique, most of us would welcome any excuse to get away for even just a long weekend along the Seine. If you’ve only got a quick Parisian getaway at your disposal, we’ve got the recipe for the perfect three-day city break. Don’t even try to squeeze it all in – it can’t be done. You have to let go of some of the more time-consuming “must dos” and focus in on a few delights to give you a memorable experience. Save the rest for a subsequent visit, because once you’ve been to Paris, you’ll definitely want to come back.
1. Sip Coffee By the Seine
Let’s ease on into this. No need to dive into your Parisian adventure head first. Just because you don’t have all the time in the world doesn’t mean you have to act like it. After you get off the plane or train early in the morning, head to one of the myriad cafes across the Seine from Notre Dame. Few things in the world are as peaceful as sitting at an outdoor cafe and watching the river flow by as you sip some coffee and savor a croissant. Cafe culture is an essential part of the Parisian experience, so don’t skip it in the name of time.
2. Wander Around the Île de la Cité
Cross over one one of the scenic ponts to the little island in the Seine. With only three days to work with, don’t even think about joining the line-up to enter the iconic Notre Dame cathedral or you’ll waste half a day. Simply poke around the cobblestoned streets of Île de la Cité and just gaze upon her familiar facade when you pass. If you’re ready for another tasty treat, get an ice cream cone at Berthillion, perhaps the city’s most revered parlors (and that’s saying something).
3. Peruse Shakespeare & Company
Head back over to the Left Bank, and check out Shakespeare & Company Bookstore, an old Hemingway hangout and perhaps the most famous independent bookstore the world over. This place has an incredibly varied selection of material (mostly in English) and has a cool vibe worth checking out. The atmosphere is the real draw, here, so feel free to wander in and flip through a few titles before making your selection, as the management seems just happy to have the company. If you’re a true bibliophile, check out the other booksellers along the Quai des Grands Augustins, which is like a heavenly outdoor flea market for book lovers.
