Traveling for work doesn't allow much time for sightseeing. However, there are times when you find yourself in a new city with a few hours to explore! That was my case when my flight out of Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris got cancelled. My colleague and I decided to stay overnight and spend an afternoon in Paris.
Have a few hours in Paris and want to explore? Check out our itinerary:
1) First, you have to see the Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris!
The tower has two restaurants that you can check out inside. However if you've only got a few hours in total to explore, you likely don't have time to wait in the absurdly long line! Snap a few photos outside the tower, admire its height, and then be on your way.
Eiffel Tower
2) Next, take a cab to the Arc de Triomphe, a beautiful work of art, showing engravings to honor those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.
The base of the Arc de Triomphe also contains the tomb of the unknown soldier from World War I. Every night, the eternal flame is lit at 6:30pm to honor those who gave their lives in both world wars, like the unknown soldier.
The Arc is particularly relevant this week, as world leaders gather around it for Veterans Day.
Arc de Triomphe
3) Then check out the Notre Dame Cathedral!
This medieval structure boasts beautiful French Gothic architecture. If you like the book or movie, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, you'll feel at least a bit connected to the building, as this is where the Hunchback served as bell-ringer!
Notre Dame
4) Finally, as your lovely yet fast-paced afternoon comes to a close, treat yourself to a crepe—a Paris staple!
Crepe
Then, spend some time relaxing by the beautiful Seine River as the sun goes down.
Seine River
Congratulations, you've had a beautiful day exploring a new city!
