I have been to Paris many times, but it was (until now) one of the few major capitals I haven’t been to, since starting my blog. Although, I have cycled around Versailles last year already (read blog here), I decided to avoid Paris. This time I was ready for Paris! Personally I think there is no better time to visit Paris than in summer. Lasting from July to August, summer in Paris can be quite hot, and the city is basically empty.
The Parisians tend to leave the city during summer which is great. In addition, given the year of the virus and no overseas tourists, I had the usually busy city all to myself. So, let’s enjoy the Parisian lifestyle!
Read below about my thoughts on traveling to France amid the pandemic.
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Summer in Paris
I had four days to explore the city and it was perfect. Although, there is never enough time to take in the Parisian lifestyle and culture.
The Louvre Museum
One of the most famous museums and a must when in Paris, visiting the Louvre without the crowds was amazing. (Remember to prebook your tickets online (see here). In comparison to my last visit, this time, I just walked up to the Mona Lisa as my first stop. It was just Mona, myself and maybe 10 other admirers. It was great!
After a quick photo I had time to walk inside the Louvre in my own space. Which took three hours, taking in all the history. Then, it was finally time for a croissant.
So, what else is there to do in Paris? Well, definitely lots of walking, shopping, drinking ‘French cafe’ and eating ice cream. Oh, and while I am here and nobody else is, let’s climb the Eiffel Tower!
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The Eiffel Tower
With just over 700 stairs to the second floor, it didn’t take me long to reach the platform to enjoy the amazing views over Paris. But I didn’t stop there. To go all the way to the top (which was my first time), I had to take the lift (all within the COVID guidelines of course) and it was definitely worth it…
The day couldn’t have been more perfect to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the Eiffel Tower. It was seriously an amazing feeling being on top of Paris (hence all the photos…). I would definitely recommend it.
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Enjoying the Parisian lifestyle
I really like Paris. I had my last trip to Paris with my mum, enjoying a great cocktail on our last night together, and it was nice to be back. This city never gets boring. There is style, culture and plenty of french deli shops to explore.
Sure, the change this year was noticeable with more shops closed than usual, streets emptier than usual and definitely less tourists than usual. But, the vibe is still there, and that is what makes summer in Paris amazing!
Read more tips just below…
Scare-Coeur Basilica
Small tip: If you have some time spare in Paris I would recommend to make a quick trip to the La Basilique du Sacre-Coeur. Sitting up on a smaller hill in the city (Montmartre), it is a beautiful basilica, within a gorgeous part of Paris. Very cute!
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Traveling to France amid Covid-19
Traveling amid the pandemic, I find, is quite doable within Europe. There are hand sanitizers at every entry/exit, everybody seems to be wearing a mask and there is a general understanding of distancing. In addition, I drive everywhere, so I don’t have to deal with crowds in planes. And if you can do the same, then traveling to France now (or other destinations within Europe’s safe list) is certainly fun and an unique experience. After all, why not?
You can explore places like Paris, which would be overcrowded any other year, more quietly. It is still early August, so for those who are willing, there is plenty of time to enjoy summer in Paris! A Revoir for now!!
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