If you plan to visit the Halcyon Retreat Golf and Spa Retreat and are lucky enough to be starting your journey from Paris, you might like to spend some time in the City of Light before venturing down to us.
Here we’ll explore some ways to make the most of your visit to Paris if you are only passing through for one day and one night…
The French capital is enormous, and even if you spent a lifetime there, you would probably still not have the time to explore every nook and cranny!
With some advanced planning, however, you’ll be surprised at how many of the city’s highlights you can explore in just one day and night! Before starting your trip, it’s crucial to spend time pre-booking some visits, such as the Sainte Chappelle or the Conciergerie, so that you don’t waste time queueing up for tickets.
Where to start?
We recommend starting at Notre Dame, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks; the gothic structure has recently survived a devastating fire but still stands as a proud symbol of the city. Currently closed, you can still admire its main façade with colossal rose window, a dedication to “Our Lady.”
From there, enjoy a short stroll through the beautiful flower market to the church of Sainte Chapelle, where 80% of the walls are made up of stunning stained glass windows.
Next, move on to the Conciergie, built initially as a royal palace; it later became a place of detention during the French Revolution, its most famous prisoner being Marie Antoinette. It also is home to the oldest clock in Paris, having worked since 1371!
A beautiful half-hour walk along the Seine to the Louvre will allow you to admire some of the city’s most famous landmarks; the Pont Neuf, one of the oldest bridges in Paris, Les Invalides, and Pont des Arts, as well as the Eiffel Tower on the left bank.
The Louvre was originally built as a royal palace for the kings of France until King Louis XiV moved his court to Versailles (If you want to know more about Versailles, we’ve dedicated a whole blog to it here link). Today the Louvre Museum ranks as one of the world’s most-visited hotpots.
Stroll from the Louvre to the Tuileries Garden, the oldest public park in Paris. It was designed by Andre Le Notre, who also designed the gardens of Versailles. We recommend stopping here for a little rest and perhaps a coffee in the sunshine.
What next?
A couple of stops on the metro will bring you to the city’s Latin Quarter, where the Roman town was born. Visit Les Arènes De Lutèce, a Roman theatre built in the 1st century where gladiators fought. You can also glimpse the Roman Baths, which are part of the Cluny museum, without actually needing to go inside.
We then recommend making your way to Saint Germain des Près. Famous for its cobbled streets, art galleries, and pretty cafes and luxury boutiques, it’s time to enjoy some people watching and perhaps coffee and cake before continuing with the rest of your Paris adventure!
Head to the Champ de Mars and take in the fantastic views of the city by climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower, undoubtedly Paris’ most iconic monument. At the top, there is an exhibition to learn about its history.
And to finish?
The most magical way to end your day in Paris is with a Seine River Night Cruise with Dinner. Many of the cruises depart from the foot of the Eiffel tower. Because you have chosen a night-time cruise, you will witness the splendour of the city and its landmarks magically illuminated while enjoying a typical French Cuisine and a glass of Champagne.
One last thing…
If you still have some energy, we have one more bonus experience to add to your list, The Moulin Rouge. Its famous cabaret shows consisting of 80 artists, shimmering sets, and outstanding international acts are on every night from 9 pm, and during weekends there is an additional show at 11 pm.
We think you will have been pleased to have seen many of the delights of Paris, and you’ll most probably be looking forward to putting your feet up at the Halcyon Golf and Spa retreat but if you are looking to experience some more of France on your way, then take a look at our blog – Paris to the Château – A Road Trip.
Other Suggestions:
We know that everyone’s idea of a holiday is unique and so, of course, our itinerary is only one option of many.
Check out www.cometoparis.com for more inspiration and more help planning your trip to Paris
