First Impressions of Paris | WorldStrides

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The Eiffel Tower stands tall against a clear blue sky, viewed from the Trocadero Gardens with people walking on the path below.

Seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time was when my trip started to truly feel real. It’s been the obvious landmark I had always associated with Paris, but seeing it in person gave me a greater appreciation for its beauty and place within the city. It was a perfect introduction to my time in France.

A long perspective shot of the Pont de Bir-Hakeim bridge in Paris, with a person walking on the pedestrian path below and city buildings against a blue sky.

After visiting the city’s most famous landmark, many of my favorite memories have come from simply walking around. Exploring different neighborhoods and crossing over unique bridges encouraged me to appreciate the architecture and rhythm of everyday life in Paris.

A long perspective shot of the Pont de Bir-Hakeim bridge in Paris, with a person walking on the pedestrian path below and city buildings against a blue sky.

A narrow, uphill cobblestone street in Paris lined with cream-colored buildings and green trees under a clear blue sky.

Wandering through side streets has become one of the most rewarding parts of the trip thus far. Away from the busiest tourist areas, the charming neighborhoods feel more peaceful and authentic. Exploring the city without any destination in mind is a great way to see the quiet parts of Paris.

One of the first things that stood out to me the most was Paris’s café culture. Seeing people sit outside, taking the time to enjoy long conversations, made the city feel more relaxed and welcoming. It reminded me that experiencing Paris isn’t about rushing around to all the landmarks but about enjoying the everyday moments too.

People dining at an outdoor cafe in Paris with decorative lights and lush greenery hanging overhead.

A close-up of a glass of dark coffee with golden-brown crema and a spoon, sitting on a white coaster on a dark table, with blurred water glasses in the background.

Although I still love coffee to go, taking the time to stop for a coffee has become more of an experience rather than simply a break between activities.

A close-up of a glass of dark coffee with golden-brown crema and a spoon, sitting on a white coaster on a dark table, with blurred water glasses in the background.

A quiet street in a European city with ornate buildings, parked scooters, and a clear blue sky.

Every neighborhood seems to have slightly different characteristics. The elegant apartment buildings and quiet streets have shown me a side of Paris that may be overlooked.

Canal Saint-Martin has been one of the biggest surprises during my time here. I expected it to be a crowded tourist destination. Instead, I found peaceful tree-lined sidewalks with people there for a leisurely stroll or sitting along the canal. Some of the most memorable experiences in Paris have come from places I hadn’t initially planned on visiting.

A long shot looking down a tree-lined canal with paved walkways on either side, people strolling, and buildings in the background under a bright sky.

The Cathédrale Saint-Gatien in Tours, France, a grand Gothic cathedral with intricate spires and stone details, stands proudly beside a calm river under a clear blue sky, with lush green foliage along the riverbanks.

During a short trip to a small town outside Paris, I visited a historic cathedral that highlights the incredible architecture found throughout the region. Visiting places beyond the city helped to better understand the history and culture that make France so special.

The Cathédrale Saint-Gatien in Tours, France, a grand Gothic cathedral with intricate spires and stone details, stands proudly beside a calm river under a clear blue sky, with lush green foliage along the riverbanks.

A nocturnal view of the Seine River in Paris with an illuminated bridge and people gathered on the riverbanks.

Sitting along the Seine after sunset gave me a completely different view of Paris. The lights reflecting on the water create a calm atmosphere in the lively area of Le Marais. This has become one of my favorite spots in Paris, especially during the evening and at night. It has shown me that the quiet moments in the city are just as memorable as its famous landmarks.

A smiling young woman with long dark hair wearing a blue and gray t-shirt.

Phoebe L.

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City Highlight
Culture