Picnic by the Seine with Eiffel Tower Views
One of my favorite moments in Paris was having a sunset picnic by the Seine River. I bought a fresh baguette, some French cheeses, and a box of colorful macarons, then found a quiet spot by the water. As the sun went down and the Eiffel Tower started to sparkle, the city lights and the sound of the river made the evening feel magical. A picnic by the Seine is one of the best things to do in Paris. It’s fun, affordable, and perfect whether traveling alone, with friends, or as a couple.
Travel Tip: Get there early to save a good spot by the river. If you want a drink before your picnic, there’s a small restaurant near the Eiffel Tower where you can sit and wait for the light show.
Even by myself, I felt completely caught up in the charm of Paris. Watching the Eiffel Tower light up while sitting by the river made me appreciate simple things, good food, beautiful views, and a little quiet time to enjoy everything.
Explore Passage des Panoramas
The Passage des Panoramas is the oldest covered walkway in Paris, built in 1799. It’s located in the 2nd arrondissement, between Montmartre Boulevard and Saint-Marc Street. I wandered through the tiled paths, checked out antique shops, stopped at local cafés, and even grabbed some ice cream. It’s a quiet, low-key spot that not many tourists know about—one of the best things to do in Paris if you like unique, off-the-beaten-path places.
How to Get There:
Paris has an excellent transportation system, which made getting around the city easy. Depending on where you’re coming from, here are a few ways to reach the Passage des Panoramas:
Train: L
RER: B
Metro: 3, 8, 9
Bus: 20, 39, 45, 52, 68, 85
Visit Puteaux, Paris
Puteaux is one of those places in Paris that most tourists skip—but I think they’re missing out. It’s a clean, modern suburb just across the Seine from the city center, with a mix of business towers and green parks. You won’t find the usual crowded landmarks here, and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and gives you a real feel for everyday life in Paris.
One thing that totally surprised me was Westfield Les 4 Temps, a huge shopping mall in the La Défense area of Puteaux. It has everything from popular fashion stores to quick bites and even a cinema. It’s perfect for a rainy day or if you want to do something different from the usual museums and monuments.
I think Puteaux is worth adding to your Paris itinerary if you want a more laid-back experience, and it’s easy to get there with the metro.
See the Eiffel Tower Sparkle at Night
This was a “pinch me” moment; I had waited 19 years to see the Eiffel Tower, and it was even more incredible in person. If you’re visiting Paris, don’t skip this experience. Watching the Eiffel Tower light up at night is one of the best things to do in Paris, especially for first-time visitors.
I arrived around 2 PM to grab a good spot and passed the time by picking up food and snacks from a nearby Japanese restaurant. The Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes every hour, from dusk until 1 AM, so arriving early gives you time to relax and enjoy the moment. If you want an extra exceptional experience, take the elevator to the second floor or go to the top, where there’s a champagne bar. The view from above is fantastic and offers a different perspective on this Paris icon before the light show begins.
Where to Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle
Jardin du Trocadéro – Great for photos
Champ de Mars – Best for a picnic with a view
Arc de Triomphe – For a high-angle view
Montparnasse Tower – Offers panoramic city views
Grande Mosquée de Paris and Wisteria Courtyard
The Grand Mosque of Paris is in the Latin Quarter, in the 5th arrondissement. It’s one of the largest mosques in France and has been around for nearly 100 years. . If you visit in spring (mid to late April through mid-May), the wisteria is in full bloom, making the space even more stunning. This spot is a great choice if you want to explore something off the usual tourist path. For anyone looking for quiet, beautiful places in Paris, it’s truly one of the best things to do. Seeing it in person feels like discovering a hidden masterpiece.
Visit the Free Petit Palais Museum
The Petit Palais was a surprise favorite. Admission to the permanent exhibits is free, and inside you’ll find a quiet courtyard café and artwork by Monet, Renoir, and others. It’s a cultural gem and one of the best things to do in Paris France on a budget.
Best Lunch Spot Near the Louvre
Instead of going to the trendy spots like Café de Flore, I wanted something with a more local vibe. My top pick for lunch in Paris was Café Palais Royal, just a few blocks from the Louvre. I sat outside and ordered half a roast chicken, golden fries, a fresh side salad, wine, and dessert.
The food was good, but the view made it even better. I loved people-watching while I ate, locals chatting nearby, and the relaxed atmosphere made it one of my favorite meals of the trip. For anyone looking for a tasty, authentic meal near the main sights, this is one of the best things to do in Paris.
Visit the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was the first stop on my Paris trip, and it did not disappoint. This iconic monument sits at the end of the Champs-Élysées and honors those who fought for France. I spent time admiring the detailed carvings and sculptures. If you have more time than I did, I recommend climbing to the top for one of the city’s best panoramic views; you can even see the Eiffel Tower. For first-time visitors, it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Paris.
How to Get There:
Use the underground pedestrian tunnel to reach the Arc safely. You can climb 284 stairs to the top or take the elevator most of the way, followed by 46 more steps to the terrace
Where to Eat in Asnières-sur-Seine – A Local Favorite
I stayed in Asnières-sur-Seine, about 30 minutes by train from central Paris. It felt peaceful and more local than the city center. I had just arrived from London and was tired, so I needed something to wake me up! I came across Le Bon Coin Restaurant, a small spot tucked into a corner at a busy intersection. At first, it didn’t look like much, but once I sat down and tried the food, it quickly became one of my favorite meals in Paris.
The menu had everything from couscous to burgers, and wine was available by the pitcher. I ordered the lamb couscous, and it was terrific. The total came to €35, plus a generous pitcher of wine for just €9 more than enough for me. Even with only one server working, I felt completely taken care of.
This is an excellent choice for a meal with an authentic neighborhood vibe. Get there early, because it’s a local favorite and fills up fast. Dining here reminded me why finding spots off the main tourist track is one of the best things to do in Paris.
Visit Marché des Enfants Rouges
Marché des Enfants Rouges is the oldest covered market in Paris, initially founded in 1635. It’s located in the 3rd arrondissement of the Le Marais neighborhood. Though it became a gourmet food market in 2000, it still sells fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and seafood. The cozy food stalls make this market special, each with only a few seats. Many serve seasonal menus with natural wines and freshly prepared plates inspired by cuisines worldwide. It’s a great way to eat like a local in Paris. Visit during the week and early in the day to avoid the crowd. Opening hours vary depending on the season, so check online before your visit. If you don’t do anything significant, make this one the best thing for food lovers to do in Paris, France.
Try a Vintage Car Tour in Paris
Want to explore Paris differently? Book a vintage car ride with an app like Funbooker. Rides start at €36 and go up depending on the experience. A fun and stylish way to enjoy the best things to do in Paris France with a twist.
AU REVOIR PARIS!
Paris has so much to offer, and I felt lucky to experience it all. As my time in the city ends, the memories of cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks, and the smell of fresh French pastries will stay with me forever. Walking along the Champs-Élysées, seeing the Eiffel Tower, and enjoying authentic macarons, each moment added something special to my Paris adventure.
I also want to show you how to experience Paris without spending a fortune. Every corner of the city has something to discover, and it’s possible to make the most of your trip on a budget. Remember to share, follow, and save these tips for your next Paris adventure!
