Of all the places we have been in the world, Paris was not one of them. When Ian got news of a work trip to Monaco, I knew I couldn’t let the opportunity of a trip to Paris pass us by.
We rearranged our flights for a quick trip to Paris. We booked an amazing room at the Shangri-La Hotel with a balcony that overlooked the Eiffel Tower. The Shangri-La Hotel in Paris is known for its extravagant history. The building was constructed in 1896 for Prince Roland Bonaparte where he resided with his family. Shangri-La group took it over in 2006 to restore its historic décor and detail. It took four years to construct, as it exemplified the 17th and 19th centuries and inspired by the Louis XIV style.
While in Paris we had a list of must see and do- Here was our list
Montmartre-
This charming Paris district, situated around the hill of Montmartre in the northern part of the city, is home to many famous Paris landmarks. It is best known for the beautiful Sacre-Coeur Basilica on top of the hill as well as the legendary cabaret of Moulin Rouge. Montmartre was originally a village located just outside of the city limits. It has the most adorable classic french cafes surrounded by some of the most impressive street art you will see in the city. Very famous painters, such as Salvador Dali, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso, worked and lived in this area. It is still known as the Arts District today. Ian and I spent the afternoon here exploring, tasting wine and of course some french onion soup in the cold weather.
Palace of Versailles
“ Let Them Eat Cake”- I mean I can totally see why Marie-Antoinette would’ve said this being so secluded and away from seeing any of their people. ( just kidding there’s no excuse but I loved that movie) The palace of Versailles was truly breathtaking and a must! We hired a private tour guide, which I highly suggest. You get some amazing insights and details behind every room of the palace. The palace of Versailles was the principal royal residence of France from 1682, under Louis XIV until the start of the French Revolution in 1789, under Louis XVI. Napoleon even stayed here.
The Louvre-
I went for the Mona Lisa and fell in love with everything else. To most Americans the Louvre is most well known for housing the Mona Lisa. It is the worlds largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris France. It has over 38,000 objects from prehistory and gets over 10 million visitors a year. I suggest a private tour guide to help you navigate these amazing halls.
Antiques Flea Market–
Ian loves antiques so we couldn’t miss a visit to the famous flea market of Paris. With over 1000 antique shops there is something for everyone. While Ian spent his afternoon sourcing antique clocks, I spent my time checking the vintage stores and scoring some vintage Chanel heels! For lunch we found the cutest Brassiere and had the best Croque Madames.
Photo Shoot in front of the Eiffel Tower–
No trip to Paris will be complete without the picture perfect post in front of the Eiffel tower. Ian and I woke up extra early to get the perfect shot without all the tourist around. We used Flytographer to get these amazing pictures.
Other information for Paris-
Our restaurant picks-
George Sanc in the Four seasons- Michelin Star
Giraffe- At the Trocadero (looking at the Eiffel Tower
Wine- try the Sancerre White