Paris never stops inspiring. From the grandeur of The Louvre to the charm of Montmartre, every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, there’s always something new to experience in the City of Light.
Getting to Paris
There’s never been a better time to visit the Paris Opera House, Arc de Triomphe, or The Louvre. Air France’s direct flights from Ottawa have made travelling to this magnificent city easier.
A trip to Paris is an absolute must. Return tickets start at just $600 during low season, and you can find even better deals when booking in advance. For those looking for budget-friendly travel, the best time to visit is mid-September and May. During these months, the crowds are fewer, and prices are lower, allowing you to explore more freely.
Exploring Paris: A Day at The Louvre and the Quest for Baguette Delights
Upon checking into our hotel, we set out on a mission: to find the perfect baguette sandwich. And, of course, crêpes! Both are readily available on the lively streets of Paris. A simple stroll through a Parisian neighbourhood brings you to charming bakeries. You will also find bustling cafés filled with locals and visitors alike.
The Louvre Top tips for visiting the Louvre:
Here are some top things to see at the Louvre:
- If The Louvre is on your itinerary, here are some top tips to make the most of your Visit:
- ~Best time to go: Early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak crowds. Consider visiting on a weekday.
- ~Buy tickets online: Skip long lines by booking in advance on the official Louvre website. Your route: The Louvre is massive. Focus on key highlights like the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo.
- ~Visit at night: The museum is open late on certain days, offering stunning photo opportunities with fewer visitors.
- ~Look up! The ceilings and architecture inside the museum are breathtaking works of art.
- ~Consider a two-day visit: One day is not be enough to take in its wonders fully.
A Journey Through the Louvre
Our first major stop was The Louvre. While I had explored its exterior on an earlier trip, this was my first time stepping inside. My daughter and I agreed on a six-hour visit, and it was worth every moment. If you ask me for a suggestion, visit on your second day after a solid night’s sleep. The museum is vast, and patience is needed to navigate the crowds eager to see its treasures.
Despite the many visitors, I took my time capturing the museum’s stunning architectural details. Six hours flew by. We only scratched the surface of what The Louvre offers. To experience its grandeur, plan for a full day or break your Visit into two half-days.
Of course, no trip to The Louvre is finished without a glime of the Mona Lisa! While the crowds made it tricky to get the perfect shot, te experience was unforgettable.
From The Louvre to La Tour Eiffel: A Parisian Day
After our Louvre adventure, we stopped at a nearby café to soak in the beauty of Parisian street life. People-watching in Paris is an experience in itself. As someone with Acadian French roots, I found watching the cultural blend between French Canadians and Europeans fascinating.
Our journey continued with a scenic walk along the Seine toward the Eiffel Tower. Seeing it up close was an actual “WOW” moment. Standing beneath this iconic landmark, we were again reminded of Paris’s magic.
The Paris Opera House: A Marvel of Grandeur and Beauty
The Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera House, is breathtaking. Its intricate details and majestic columns are impressive. Every inch of this building is a masterpiece, from the grand staircases to the lavish chandeliers. If you haven’t been, add it to your list. It’s an architectural wonder that leaves you in awe.
Exploring More of Paris: The Arc de Triomphe and a Surprise Flyby
Beyond the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, we visited the famous Arc de Triomphe. We arrived just in time to see a spectacular sight. The Patrouille de France and Britain’s Red Arrows were rehearsing for the Rugby World Cup opening ceremony. Watching the jets carry out a double flyby over the monument was an unexpected highlight of our trip!
Among the many beautiful moments, one image stands out—a lady with a bouquet of flowers. It perfectly captures the Parisian way of life, a simple yet poetic scene.
Montmartre: A Brilliant Parisian Experience
Montmartre stole our hearts. This charming neighbourhood houses Paris’s most iconic sights. These include the Moulin Rouge, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the city’s only vineyard.
What to Do in Montmartre
- Visit Place du Tertre: A lively square where artists create and sell their work. It’s a true bohemian paradise.
- Take the tram: The funicular makes it easy to access Sacré-Cœur without the uphill climb.
- Visit unique cafés and patisseries: Cozy wine bars and cheese shops are everywhere, offering the perfect taste of Parisian life.
- Find chocolate; many places to buy your walking pals, you can’t go wrong with luxury sweets
- Get lost in the streets: Montmartre’s winding alleyways are full of hidden gems, from charming boutiques to historic landmarks.
Why I Love Paris
Paris has a way of slowing time. I love how mornings begin with a croissant and the hum of café chatter, how every street corner reveals art or history, and how the light transforms the city throughout the day. There’s poetry in the details — from the reflections on the Seine to the echoing footsteps inside the Louvre. Paris constantly reminds me that beauty exists in rhythm and imperfection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris
Spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather, lighter crowds, and perfect conditions for photography.
A long weekend (3–4 days) lets you see the major highlights — The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the Arc de Triomphe — but a week allows for deeper cultural exploration and local cafés.
Air France now offers direct flights from Ottawa to Paris, making travel seamless. Booking 2–3 months in advance can secure the best fares.
Don’t miss crêpes, baguette sandwiches, croissants, macarons, and local cheeses. Pair them with French wine or coffee for the full Parisian experience.
About the Author
Written and photographed by Roland Bast, a Canadian travel photographer and visual storyteller based in Ottawa.
A proud member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada), Roland specializes in capturing the emotion, history, and culture of destinations across Canada and Europe through authentic storytelling and original photography.
Keep exploring Europe:
Paris: A Unique World ·
Mont St-Michel: Revealing the Wonders and Majestic Landscapes ·
Dublin: A Historical Adventure Awaits ·
Roland’s Guide to the Countryside of the Emerald Isle ·
Lyon, France: My Top 5 Unforgettable Discoveries
De Paris, with Love, on Instagram.
Beautiful photos of a city I hope to visit !!
Thank you !
You are welcome, Shelley. Have a great day!!
You share such beautiful photographs of places I only hope to see one day. Thank you for that, Mr. Bast
Michele, thank you! It brings me joy to share my visual stories, and I’m delighted to hear that you enjoy them! 🙂