1. Walk Around Le Marais

Le Marais is one of Paris’ oldest districts and for that reason alone, holds many gems worth discovering. Le Marais, translated to “The Swamp” in English, was once home to French culture and business but fell into disrepair during The French Revolution of 1789. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that local politicians and community leaders made an effort to preserve and maintain the rich history of the area. Today, Le Marais is one of Paris’ most bustling areas and is home to Paris’ Jewish community among others. Stroll the small crooked lanes while taking in the French Medieval architecture. Be sure to visit Place Des Vosges, one of Paris’ oldest squares dating back to the 1600’s. If it’s warm, join the likely sea of Parisians and bathe in the sunlight. If you build up an appetite doing all of that tanning, head to Marché Des Enfants Rouges for a great mix of ethnic food to choose from. From Moroccan to Japanese, they have every different type of country’s food you can imagine. For dessert, you can never go wrong with a French pastry item. If nightlife is more your cup of tea (or beer), Le Marais is known for that. From old to new, the area has a lot to see.

2. Musée National D’Art Moderne

Just outside of Le Marais’ district boundaries lies one of the best museums in Paris. We know, it’s a bold statement to say that in a city with 100’s of different kinds of museums such as the Louvre or Musée D’Orsay, but to each their own. Housed in Centre Pompidou, the Musée National D’Art Moderne (National Modern Art Museum) has one of the best modern art collections found anywhere in the world. It has works from artists such as Matisse, Frida Kahlo, and Max Ernst. It’s a great place to go on a rainy day, which depending on the season, can happen often in Paris. While not as hyped up as many museums in the City Of Lights, the museum is definitely a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

3. Eiffel Tower…At Night

Yes, the Eiffel Tower makes the list of best places to see because when it is lit up at night and putting on a show, it is one of the most beautiful sights you can see. The light show happens every hour on the hour from sunset to 1 AM. Of course, that means that you have more chances to see the show in winter than summer. The show lasts around 5 minutes and is dramatic, to say the least. They save the best show for last offering an intense display of rapidly moving lights. There’s plenty of good spots to see the show from, but our next place is the best.

4. Sunset Cruise On The Seine

Seeing the light show from a sunset cruise on the Seine River is the cherry on top for a great visit to Paris. The four-hour tour I recommend is specifically designed to see the lights and will only set you back about $100, very good value for getting a great overview of the city. The tour takes you past such sites as Notre Dame, Place Vendome, Place De La Concorde, and the Champs-Elysées. The guide will explain the history and events behind each building and area that you visit. The big finale is, of course, the Eiffel Tower light show that you view from the second story outdoor deck. Not a bad first date idea…

5. Catacombs

Have you ever had a nightmare that you walked into a room surrounded by 6 million skulls and other human bones? Well, your nightmare just became reality at the Catacombs. The Catacombs is an underground ossuary that was created to eliminate the need for Paris’ overcrowded cemeteries. Talk about gross! There are over 6 million people buried below Paris’ streets and today, you can visit them. During the tour, a guide leads you 1.5 KM through tunnels lasting about 45 minutes. The Catacombs might actually be a refreshing place to visit on a hot, summer day considering the temperature is a cool 14 degrees Celsius. Be warned, however, the Catacombs is not a place for those with respiratory issues or those that get panic attacks since the tunnels are cramped and there’s not much air movement.

6. Montmartre

Located in Paris 18th Arrondissement, Montmartre (Mountain Of Martyrs) is a can’t miss destination when visiting the city, once home to painters with names such as Picasso and Van Gogh. Be warned now that walking up and around Montmartre is very steep so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. At the heart of Montmartre is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The basilica is a symbol of Paris and stands guard on a hill overlooking the entire city. On the way up to visit the basilica, explore the small, windy streets that lead to the top. There are numerous bakeries and cafés that are perfect for sitting outside, watching the world go by, and sipping on an espresso. After you make it off the hill, check out Boulevard De Clichy. The street is best known for being the home of Moulin Rouge, the famous burlesque club. Getting your picture taken in front of its iconic windmill while posing is almost mandatory.

A snippet of a Sunday morning Mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Montmartre.

Suggested next reading from this series:

1. 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In London
2. 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In New York

The post 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So you pack your best beret, scroll through your phrasebook and gather up your Euros. But it’s always worth remembering that real life does get in the way sometimes and occasionally, just occasionally, things may not turn out exactly as you expected. It doesn’t mean you won’t have a great time though—especially if you prepare yourself by reading our real life vs expectation in Paris list.

1. Speaking French

Expectation:

You have always wanted to learn another language and now you have a wonderful chance to practice all those phrases you learned in school.

“One baguette please, sir”

“It is lovely weather today!”

“Where is the swimming pool?”

It never really leaves you. Soon you’ll be lounging on a wicker chair on a cobbled street, sipping coffee and conversing with the locals as you wave to ladies riding past on bicycles.

Reality:

Despite your best efforts, everyone speaks better English than you speak French. This crushing realization happens when you ask something in French and once again get an answer in English. Paris is used to visitors and most people are ready and willing to speak your language to help you out.

2. Eat amazing food

Expectations:

The French are known around the world for their delectable cuisine. The wine, the cheese, the meat. There’s a reason why everyone who visits France comes back with a much heavier suitcase than when they arrived. A much rounder girth too, but it is your holiday after all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris P@RIS #ThisisParis (@paris)

Reality:

After the millionth rich, creamy and indulgent meal, your belly starts to revolt and your heart starts to burn. All you want is something plain, simple and ashamedly unfussy. You finally admit this yourself as you search for a Subway sandwich shop. You’re just not practiced enough in this rich food….yet.

3. Have a romantic night out

Expectation:

The city of love, Paris is known for its romantic atmosphere. The city of love is a well-earned nickname and when staying there it’s hard not to get swept up in the emotions and feel yourself wanting to go with the flow. So grab another oyster, a small glass of champagne and settle in for a good time.

Reality:

Realistically, how romantic can you feel after a full days sightseeing and a stomach full of indulgent food? Maybe that last macaron was a mistake, but it went so well after the slice of chocolate gateaux that realistically, what else could you have done?

Luckily France is also an excellent place to have a quiet lie down and possibly…very possibly…a small cuddle. Aww.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by M_J (@melle_jones)

4. Embrace the continental greeting

Expectation:

How free and laid back the French are will undoubtedly rub off on you. Kissing strangers to greet them immediately breaks down barriers and you feel at one with the country and its people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Photographer (@kissinpariscom)

Reality:

Is it one kiss or two? Is it different for men and women? Gaah, don’t get it wrong. The repercussions could be toe itchingly awkward. What’s wrong with a good old-fashioned handshake anyway?

5. Be a fashionista

Expectation:

France equals fashion. As host to Paris fashion week and birthplace of Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior (to name but a few), this is the place to see and be seen. Finally, you can wear your highest end, trendiest and most fashionable outfits and be appreciated for the fashionista superstar you’ve always known you are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jessica | Architetto a spasso (@jessicalovivo)

Reality:

Most French people wear the same as everyone else in the world but annoyingly have an air of grace that makes them carry it off all the better. Even in your best outfit, you still quite can’t get that “Je Ne Sais Quoi” that is born into the people of this fine nation. Nevermind, you still look cute.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Street Styles (@paris_streetstyles)

6. Appreciate French art

Expectation:

Once again France leads the way and boasts a wonderful heritage of world-famous artists. Duchamp, Matisse, Cezanne, Monet. All outstanding visionaries who changed the face of the art world and are celebrated to this day. As a result, it’s capital is brimming with art galleries and famous works.

This means that now is the time to put on those thick-rimmed spectacles, don your best turtleneck sweater and prepare to feed your artistic mind.

Reality:

Turns out lots of visitors go to Paris for the art and you realize this as you stand behind a crowd of people and cameras and peek a quick glimpse at the Mona Lisa. Nevermind, you can always drink a tipple of absinthe at the local bar and relive the experience of many a starving artiste instead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by deborahlap (@deborahlapebie)

7. Explore Parisian Parks

Expectation:

When people think of Paris they probably think mainly of the architecture, the Lourve, the Arc de Troimphe. All the exciting urban landscapes…

But if they do, they’re missing a trick because tucked away, Paris also has some of the most beautiful parks around. The formal glory of the Jardin Des Tuileries, the flowers at the Parc Floral de Paris. It’s largest, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont even has waterfalls and cliffs to admire. Is there a better way to spend a sunny day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Pedro Henrique (@flyer288)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by PEDRO & PAULI (@moments_of_yugen)

Reality:

These parks may be beautiful, but the local wildlife thinks so too, and you realize that as you reach for another spray of the insect repellent. Still, there aren’t that many more aesthetically pleasing places to get bitten by bugs.

8. Visit the best museums

Expectation:

France is cosmopolitan, cultural, historical and full of learned people. As a result, it prizes it’s museums very highly and it shows. A plethora of learning is available to you, especially in its esteemed capital. What a perfect opportunity to introduce the little ones to the idea that learning can be fun. They’ll be tiny intellectuals before you know it.

Reality:

Turns out children are just as bored by foreign museums as they are by ones at home. Still, all the moaning, running around and stamping of their feet should tire them out nicely and leave you some quiet time to enjoy a nice glass of French wine before bed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Musées (@parismusees)

Despite any slight differences between expectation and reality, you will undoubtedly still have an amazing time in France. We challenge anyone to visit and not fall in love with its cities, parks, people and ethos. Have you ever been? Tell us about your experiences below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Victor Neviere (@victorneviere)

Can you think of any more real life vs expectation in Paris we should add to our list? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life

The post Real Life Vs Expectation In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So forget just the top 10 French foods, here’s 15. But first, here’s a quick summary of the best French food in Paris, followed by more info about each one below. So, let’s begin!

The Best Foods In Paris Are:

1. Ris de Veau

Ris de veau is calf sweetbread. But what is “sweetbread”? Well, prepared to be scandalized by how much the name throws you off from the truth! Sweetbread is actually made from the internal organs of animals.

So, sweetbread is neither sweet nor bread. You may think it’d taste horrible, but it’s actually one of the best foods to eat in Paris and especially tasty fried. Worth trying!

2. Omelette

Looking for what to eat for breakfast in Paris? This is it. You’ve probably tried an omelet at home but a French omelette is a different experience (after all, it’s even spelled a bit differently!)

Stuffed with cheese and other delicious ingredients of your choice, this is also a quick and cheap food in Paris that can be enjoyed in one of the many bistros scattered throughout the city.

3. Escargot

Perhaps you ordered this dish because you liked the name but had no idea what it is? Well, know that you are about to eat delicious and succulent snails!

Flavored with butter, garlic and parsley, les escargot (snails) are among the typical meals in Paris. Don’t be squeamish, this classy dish may prove tastier than you expect!

4. Vichyssoise

More similar to a cream of leeks and potatoes than a soup, vichyssoise is preferably served at room temperature in some of the best restaurants in Paris.

Potatoes and leeks (only the delicate white part) are sprinkled with defatted chicken broth until cooked; whisk the whole and sieved with a fine knit strainer. Complete with fresh cream or cold milk, and served with a few leaves of chives or chervil.

5. Soupe à l’Oignon

Yes, you may have translated it right, it’s a real onion soup. After eating it, be aware that you cannot kiss your loved one all day, but I assure you it’s worth it.

Eat it in the bars à soupes (soup bars), special unique places where soups are served. It ain’t rocket science and sure is tasty.

6. Quiche

Another typical meal in Paris that you’ve probably eaten elsewhere, French quiche is a savory pie that has several variations, as you’d also expect from it back home.

Like back home, the main ingredient is eggs and it can also be prepared with bacon or vegetables. But the French do it really well. A real delicacy and deserving as one of the best foods in Paris!

7. Fois Gras / Foie Gras

Perfect and delicate, fois gras is one of the top dishes to try on a trip to Paris. The fattened liver meat, in all of its variants, is one of the most popular foods in Paris.

But only for the bravest and for the “unscrupulous” is foie gras, goose liver or duck liver, another typical Parisian dish.

8. Pâtè en Croute

Coming from a medieval solution to preserve meat, pâté en croute means “pâté in crust” and was used as a way to preserve meat by encasing it in pastry. Originally the crust was never eaten, but over time it became edible.

A great option if you’re eating lunch in Paris, it is often served in slices with a salad, pickled onions and gherkins.

9. Frog Legs

Definitely one of the best foods in Paris to try simply for the novelty. Frog legs are flavored with salt, pepper & lemon, breaded, sautéed in egg and fried in olive oil, and are considered a refined dish of French cuisine.

There is nothing to fear by eating this protein-rich and low-fat specialty that tastes like chicken, but with the consistency of white fish. Taste the cuisses de grenouille (French for “thighs of frogs”) with a dry white wine and you’ll be surprised at how tasty they are!

10. Breton Galette

A staple food in the Brittany region of France but also a typical meal in Paris. Breton Galette is a sort of savory crepe prepared with buckwheat. It is stuffed with meat or vegetables and cheese.

A bulls-eye egg placed on top is ideal to complete this work of art!

11. Cheeses

Cheeses are generally eaten as a dessert with the most famous including Beaufort, Brie or Roquefort. All of these cheeses should be up there on your list of what to eat in Paris.

They also all go great with wine, strictly French wine of course!

12. Macarons

The crispy sweetness of the meringue meets the intensity and smoothness of the cream. They’re the perfect dessert “sandwich”. To be devoured one after another in a variety of tasty flavors. Warning, they are addictive!

13. Pains au Chocolat

What to eat in Paris while walking under the Eiffel Tower? The chocolate bread (pains au chocolate literally means “bread of chocolate”!)

Even bread in Paris becomes chic. Pain au chocolat is a bread puff-pastry with chocolate inside that can be bought in patisseries. If you want to know what to eat for breakfast in Paris, look no further.

It must be absolutely crumbled on clothes while you feel enchanted walking under the Eiffel Tower.

Fun fact: there is a national debate in France as to whether it should be called pain au chocolat or chocolatine! However, in Paris, it is almost always called pain au chocolat.

14. Paris-Brest

One of the best foods in Paris (in our opinion), the Paris-Brest is a traditional pastry cake made of choux pastry filled with cream and garnished with almonds.

The circular shape represents the wheel of a bike, in fact, Louis Durand—a Maisons Laffitte pastry chef—created it to celebrate the Paris-Brest-Paris cycling race.

15. Andouillette

Andouillette is a highly controversial sausage that can be made from all sorts: pork, wine, intestines, pepper, onions, seasonings, and more.

Despite sounding somewhat interesting and exotic, it does have a more—shall we say—more down-to-earth side to it in that it is often made from entrails. Definitely for the more adventurous!

Still in doubt about what are the best foods in Paris? Go for the most authentic, local and typical meals in Paris and you won’t regret it!

Suggested next reading: 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In Paris

The post 15 Best Foods In Paris You Should Eat appeared first on Modern Trekker.