Paris is one of those cities that feels straight out of a movie—stunning architecture, incredible food, and a certain je ne sais quoi that makes everything feel effortlessly chic (maybe it’s all the beautiful people?). From iconic landmarks to working Couture Fashion Week, my trips to Paris were an unforgettable mix of style, history, and, let’s be real—a LOT of bread, cheese, and wine. To me, Paris felt like the French version of NYC (my favorite US city).
The Landmarks
Eiffel Tower – Seeing it for the first time? Go at night. The sparkling lights make it one of the most magical things you’ll ever see. Bonus points if you grab a bottle of wine and picnic under it like a true Parisian.
Arc de Triomphe – Massive. Majestic. Chaotic. (That traffic circle is WILD. Hello 12 lanes of traffic) But climb to the top, and you’ll get one of the best views in the city.
The Louvre – Home to the Mona Lisa, yes, but honestly, the building itself is just as much of a masterpiece as the art inside. Pro tip: Go early, and get lost in the less crowded halls—there’s so much more to see beyond da Vinci’s smirking lady.
Lock Bridge – Okay, the original Pont des Arts is no longer covered in love locks (RIP, too much weight), but the tradition lives on at nearby bridges. Cheesy and touristy? Yes. Did I do it anyway? Also yes.
Notre Dame – I saw it pre-fire, but I’ve heard this Gothic beauty still holds all the charm and history that makes it one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. The detailing on the exterior alone is mind-blowing.
Palace of Versailles – Missing this is my #1 regret and I’ll be sure to add it to my next trip. If you’re even remotely into royal drama, gold-covered everything, or the idea of living like an 18th-century king, you HAVE to go.
The Food
Foie Gras – Look, I feel guilty about it, but it’s SO GOOD. Rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Pair it with a glass of French wine, and you’ll forget your moral dilemmas for a few bites. If you haven’t looked up how foie gras is actually made….you probably should.
Chocolate Baguette – My daily ritual when I was studying abroad. 10 cents for a fresh, warm baguette with mini chocolate chips? Always yes. Paris truly understands my soul. It became my go-to snack while learning couture techniques —because nothing fuels creativity like carbs.
Wine on the Metro – One of the best parts of Parisian life? You can legally drink wine on the metro. Nothing like sipping a cheap but delicious Bordeaux while heading home from a long day of exploring (plus the metro is expansive and easy to navigate). Pro tip: even the cheapest wine in Paris is delicious!
Duck (Canard) – The French know how to cook duck to perfection. Whether it’s Duck à l’Orange, crispy duck confit, or a simple seared duck breast, it’s always rich, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying. If you see it on the menu, order it.
Do yourself a favor and eat ALL the pastries and desserts. And I do mean all of them. You can shed those 5 extra pounds when you get home.
Fashion Dreams
Paris isn’t just the capital of fashion—it’s a place where fashion is life. My first time there, I had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of taking couture technique classes at the Paris American Academy and working Couture Fashion Week. Seeing the level of craftsmanship up close was unreal—hundreds of hours put into a single dress, tiny hand-sewn details, and fabrics more luxurious than anything I’ve ever touched. It was fashion in its purest form, and I soaked up every second.
Paris is everything you think it will be and more. Whether you’re marveling at history, indulging in buttery pastries, sipping wine on the go, or getting lost in a world of couture, there’s something irresistible about this city. It’s stylish, it’s romantic, and above all—it’s delicious.
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
