Paris is not a “one and done” kind of city… it’s a place you return to again and again.
From its incredible food to its timeless architecture, cosy cafés, and charming streets, Paris has a way of pulling you back in every time.
This trip was a little different for me. I treated my sister to a birthday trip so she could experience the magic of Paris at Christmas with her best friend. Let’s just say… my role quickly became the “responsible one” (or at least, the family’s point of contact). But honestly – who would ever say no to a trip to Paris?
I went into this trip wanting something slower. I wanted to de-stress from work and to re-connect with myself. I still saw the main sights, but I also gave myself time to sit in cafés, eat far too many pastries, and just let the city unfold around me.
And visiting in winter? That just made everything feel even more magical.
- Day 1: A Solo Reset & First Impressions of Paris
- Day 2: Classic Paris & Simple Pleasures
- Day 3: Montmartre Magic
- Final Thoughts: Paris in Winter
Day 1: A Solo Reset & First Impressions of Paris
Walking Tour
After checking into the hostel, my sister and I went our separate ways for a bit. I always like to start a trip with a walking tour – it’s the best way to understand a city quickly and find your bearings.
I booked a tour with Sandemans New Europe Tours, which I’ve used before and trust. The tour began at the Saint-Michel Fountain and gave a brilliant introduction to the city.
Notre-Dame: Beauty Before the Crowds
Our first stop was Notre-Dame Cathedral, and it immediately stood out to me.
Even compared to other European cathedrals, the level of detail here is incredible. The stained glass, the structure, the history – it’s one of those places that makes you pause.
I managed to step inside briefly before the tour began, which made it even more special. Sadly, following the Notre-Dame fire, the cathedral has been closed for restoration – but even from the outside, it’s still breathtaking.
The Louvre: A Bucket List Moment
The tour ended at the iconic Louvre Museum, after a beautiful walk along the Seine past landmarks like the Pont Alexandre III and the Tuileries Garden.
The Louvre is home to countless artefacts and, of course, the Mona Lisa.
I didn’t try to see everything. Instead, I focused on the essentials, and honestly – that was more than enough. Seeing the Mona Lisa had been on my bucket list, so I didn’t want to miss it.
Even if you don’t go inside, just standing in the courtyard and taking in the architecture is worth it.
Galeries Lafayette: Paris at Christmas
That evening, I headed to Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, one of the most famous department stores in the city.
At Christmas, it transforms completely.
The giant tree beneath the glass dome changes theme every year, and it’s honestly stunning. I spent ages wandering through the different floors before heading up to the rooftop terrace for one of the best (and free) views over Paris.
At this point, exhaustion kicked in – and hunger hit hard.
A Lost Evening (That Turned Into Something Special)
What followed was one of those unplanned travel moments you can’t recreate.
I wandered aimlessly through quieter streets, far from the tourist crowds, until I stumbled across a small, cosy French restaurant. I was craving duck confit, and somehow, I found exactly what I needed.
I ended up having the loveliest conversation with the waiter before sitting down alone in a dimly lit corner with candlelight, incredible food, and my thoughts.
I pulled out my notebook and just… wrote.
About work. Life. Everything. It wasn’t just a meal – it felt like a reset.
Day 2: Classic Paris & Simple Pleasures
The next day felt like a perfect mix of iconic sights and slow moments.
A Hidden French Market
On the way to the Eiffel Tower, we stumbled across the cutest little street market. It felt so local and authentic – cheese, fresh produce, and that unmistakable Parisian charm.
Sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don’t plan.
Eiffel Tower: Worth It… or Not?
Seeing the Eiffel Tower in person never gets old.
We decided to go up, and while the views were beautiful, I’ll be honest – I don’t think it’s essential. If you’re short on time, you’ll get equally stunning views from places like the Arc de Triomphe.
Still, it’s one of those experiences you kind of have to do at least once.
Champs-Élysées: Coffee & People Watching
We then made our way down the Champs-Élysées, often compared to Oxford Street – but with a far more elegant feel.
I found a spot at PAUL Bakery & Café, ordered coffee and pastries, and just sat there reading and people-watching.
Those quiet moments? They’re what make Paris special.
Dinner at Bouillon Chartier: A True Parisian Experience
That evening, I finally visited Bouillon Chartier, a place I’d heard so much about.
Tucked away down a side street, it feels like stepping back in time. The interior hasn’t changed in decades – shared tables, buzzing atmosphere, and classic French dishes at surprisingly affordable prices.
I ended up sitting elbow-to-elbow with strangers, eating steak, and soaking in the energy of the room.
Bouillons were established so anyone can get affordable traditional French food and speedily. There are very few left and the price of started range from €1 – €6.80 and mains not exceeding €13.50 (and that includes steak). Its no wonder there was a queue snaking outside into the street. I expected lots of tourists, but I surrounded by the locals.
Going to a restaurant is an experience and never just about your meal. Its about the room, the service and everything in between. The steak I had was absolutely delicious but the experience was even better.
Day 3: Montmartre Magic
On my final day, I wanted to explore somewhere different. A colleague had recommended Montmartre, and it ended up being my favourite part of the trip.
Perched on a hill, Montmartre has a completely different energy. Once known for its nightlife and rebellion, it later became a hub for artists and creatives – and you can still feel that spirit today.
Place Dalida & Hidden Streets
I wandered through Place Dalida. This stunning location is named after Dalida, a legendary Italian-Egyptian singer who is absolutely huge in France. I just know her from her rendition of Bang Bang, which is just perfection. Dalida’s Parisian home was in Montmartre and it was only after she died that the city named this square after her and installed the bust of her. You’ll notice a few shiny places because its apparently good luck to rub it – hmmmm.
From there, I walked along Rue de l’Abreuvoir, which was easily one of the most beautiful streets I saw in Paris.
Moulin Rouge & Artistic History
Of course, I had to stop by the iconic Moulin Rouge, famous for the can-can dance.
I would’ve loved to see a show, but tickets were sold out – definitely something for next time.
Le Moulin de la Galette & Van Gogh’s Paris
Le Moulin de la Galette is the last remaining windmills in Montmartre and also a tourist attraction. This windmill, once used for grinding flour is a favourite of Vincent Van Gogh. The owners of the windmill created a brown bread (Galette) that was so popular that the windmill got its name from it.
Montmartre really does feel like walking through art history.
Sacré-Cœur: The Perfect Ending
Built in late 1800s, Sacre Coeur, otherwise known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is one of the most famous churches in Paris. I enjoyed going inside the church and also just enjoying the sunset over the city. However – be cautious with your personal belongings as there many pickpockets around.
Before heading back, I grabbed a fresh macaron from a nearby bakery… and it was so good I immediately bought a box to take home.
No regrets.
Final Thoughts: Paris in Winter
Paris in winter just hits differently.
The Christmas markets, the cosy cafés, the slower pace—it all adds an extra layer of magic to an already incredible city.
For me, this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about slowing down, reconnecting, and really feeling the city.
And that’s why I know I’ll be back again.
Planning a Trip to Paris?
If you’ve got any questions about visiting Paris—especially in winter—drop them below and I’ll happily help.
📌 And if you found this guide useful, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest for later!
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