“I’ll show you Paris in the morning…” I keep playing this Joe Purdy song over and over and smiling like a fool as I ride the Paris metro and eat my panini by the Seine. I spent five days wandering around and getting lost in this lovely city and I thought I’d share with you some of the places I discovered along the way.

Luxembourg Gardens, Paris 2013
I was very lucky to visit the gardens on a beautiful sunny day. I took a picnic and spent a few hours soaking up the sun and watching Parisians do the same. These gardens are simply breathtaking. 

This was taken by the San Michel canal. I walked for hours trying to find a cheap lunch and an afternoon coffee that wouldn’t cost me $6. After deliriously wandering the streets in a famished state, I finally had a little picnic by the canal with my baguette, Babybell cheese, fruit, strawberry tart, and of course, coffee.

Tango by the Seine, 2013
On this particular night I was trying to walk towards the Eiffel Tower but ended walking in the opposite direction. Thanks to my terrible sense of direction I stumbled upon tango in the park and got to watch all of the couples dance until the sun went down.

Notre Dame, 2013
The gardens behind this amazing church are filled with roses and people eating their lunch on park benches while children laugh and play in the background. It was incredible to see such a famous monument in person.

I love the contrast of the pale white buildings and the colorful flowers. 

I spent hours getting lost trying to find the Moulin Rouge (Paris does not have a grid system). Just when I was about to give up I saw a piece of the mill turning around the corner. I was so excited and relieved that my hours of walking had paid off (along with some sheer luck).

I really wanted to see the Eiffel Tower at night, so my last day in Paris I made sure to be there for the lights. With all of the river boats passing below the bridge and the crowds of people watching, it is magical.

Is Paris on your bucket list, or have you already been? What are some of the sights you’d love to see? What else would you like to know about Paris?