Some might say this is the most magical time of year to visit Paris: they would probably be right. I’ve never seen such exquisite and perfectly formed cherry blossoms as I have in the Jardins des Plantes.
When I look up and see the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, I say inwardly every time, "I'm in Paris."
Since places are always enhanced by stories, here are five places that have a starring role in A Tale of Two Cities.
If you take the RER B just south of Paris in the month of April, you’ll discover the most amazing grove of cherry trees in Parc de Sceaux, planted in perfectly-formed French straight lines.
Suresnes American Cemetery and Memorial is located just outside of Paris and is a beautiful and moving place to visit. Over 1,500 Americans who served in World War I rest on the green hillside of Mont-Valérien as well as 23 unknown dead from World War II.
The Musée Rodin in Paris is home to one of the most recognized sculptures in the world, Le Penseur, or The Thinker as I grew up calling it. It was one of the most thrilling pieces of art for me to see in person while living in Paris; I returned to the garden on multiple occasions. With its long tree-lined walks, outdoor sculptures, and roses in the spring, it’s a pleasant place to spend an hour strolling or meeting a friend for coffee in the café.
Most visitors to Paris find their way to the historic English-language bookshop, Shakespeare and Company, but this familiar landmark across from Notre Dame is only the first stop on my Paris Bookshop Tour.
There is usually at least one day of the week where Louvre opening hours extend; at the moment it appears to be open until 9:45 p.m. on Fridays. That is right in the middle of Parisian dinner hours, and it is a wonderful time to meander through the capacious and ornate halls in the quiet amongst much fewer people than you’ll find in the morning and afternoon hours. I went one May evening from about 7:30-9 p.m., and it was my most memorable visit.