When spring comes to Paris the humblest mortal alive must feel that he dwells in paradise. – Henry Miller
Spring might just be the ideal season for visiting Paris; the sun doesn’t set for 16 hours; the weather is warm, yet not too warm; the trees are blooming; the outdoor food markets are crowded and there is a series of events (music festivals, art exhibitions, etc.) taking place between March and June. If you are lucky enough to find yourself in the Ville Lumière in springtime, here are some things you should do and see in order to capture the blossoming spirit of this marvelous city. If you’re planning to stay for a night, two or even a week in Paris – I’d suggest looking for accommodation in some of Paris’s holiday rentals – you’ll find a stunning range of options located throughout the capital.
Take a walk in Parisian parks and gardens
When Paris takes off its winter coat its gardens and parks become full of lush greenery and colorful flowers. They reflect freshness, elegance and a specific joie de vivre you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Don’t go only into the famous Luxembourg Gardens, find the secluded lesser known gardens, tucked away in smaller arrondissements. Buttes-Chaumont is definitely one of such places. While you’re stretching your legs, don’t forget to stroll to the Garden of Plants, Parc Monceau, Jardin des Tuileries, and Parc Andre Citroen.
“Consume time and space” in sidewalk cafes
The café culture in Paris is a unique experience that goes way beyond the superficial coffee drinking. As soon as the temperatures get higher and the sun greets the city, the streets are filled with charming assemblies of chairs and tables which are calling you to enjoy the sophisticated décor, laid-back feeling and magnificent views. Each café in Paris has its own story and depending on what you like you may end up in Hemingway’s favorite place – Le Select or the Café Richelieu on the first floor of the Louvre.
Let someone guide you
Paris is an overwhelming experience for any traveler. There are so many things to see and do that you just can accomplish and soak up everything. Besides visiting some of the most obvious attractions, such as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, you should dig deeper into the Parisian lifestyle with interesting Paris city tours that could include guided film exploration, vintage city, shopping, getting to know the history of perfumes, etc. That way you will have more meaningful memories of Paris that are nothing like the typical tourist experience in this city.
Shop at the city’s markets
Parisian markets are universes that exist independently of what surrounds them. In spring, they are especially blossoming. Start with the food markets where you can buy the season’s freshest fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, and flowers. One of the top food markets in the city you should definitely check out is Rue Cler. Don’t stop at the food, make sure you rummage through Parisian legendary flea markets which attract thousands of vintage lovers each day. If you don’t mind the crowd, visit what is thought to be the biggest flea market in the world, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen. If you prefer something of a more manageable size, take a walk to the Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves.
Have a picnic (like a true Parisian)
When spring comes you can see tons of Parisians at after-work picnics along the Canal Saint Martin. Join them and see what makes this way of eating so much better than having lunch at prestigious French restaurants (not that they are bad). All you need is a baguette, Fromage (cheese), ham and a bottle of fine wine. And don’t forget the most popular sweets of Paris – macarons.
It’s not that we don’t agree with the famous Audrey Hepburn’s statement “Paris is always a good idea”; we just feel that Paris is the best idea in springtime. The butterflies inhabit your stomach and make you fall in love with the City of Lights; making the experience even more intense and meaningful.
i would love to see this and have great time i love to have it on bucket list