I’ve visited Paris many times before, but until now, it was one of the few major capitals I hadn’t explored since starting my blog. Though I cycled around Versailles last year (read blog here), I deliberately avoided Paris. Until now. This time, I was ready to spend my summer in Paris!
In my opinion, summer is the perfect time to visit Paris. From July to August, the city can get quite hot, but it’s also wonderfully empty. Parisians tend to escape the city during this time, which works in your favour. Plus, in a year marked by the virus and the absence of overseas tourists, I had the usually bustling city almost entirely to myself. Not that I need an excuse to be traveling to France.
So, let’s dive into the Parisian lifestyle during summer!
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 fully embrace the Parisian lifestyle during a summer in Paris.
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 in the beautiful summer of Paris!
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The Eiffel Tower
With just over 700 steps to the second floor, it didn’t take me long to reach the platform and soak in the stunning views over Paris. But I wasn’t stopping there! For the first time ever, I decided to go all the way to the top. The only way up was by lift (following all COVID guidelines, of course), and let me tell you, it was absolutely 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’ve always loved Paris. My last visit was with my mum, where we ended our trip with a fantastic cocktail on our final night together. So returning felt special. This city never gets old. It’s a perfect blend of style, culture, and endless French delis waiting to be explored.
Of course, this year felt different. More shops were closed, the streets were quieter, and tourists were noticeably fewer. But the Parisian charm? Still very much alive. And that’s exactly what makes summer in Paris so magical!
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. My summer in Paris was certainly fun. 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 a 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 Paris this summer!
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