With Sam Bhandari | Trips With Sam
Day 3 in Paris:
Morning – Art, Views & Hidden Streets of Montmartre
Paris feels different from above — the morning sun casts a soft glow over the cobblestones of Montmartre (18th Arrondissement). I wandered through its quiet, winding streets, each corner telling a story from the Belle Époque.
The highlight was Sacré-Cœur Basilica, gleaming white atop the hill. From its terrace, Paris stretched endlessly beneath me, a mosaic of rooftops kissed by the morning light. Street artists at Place du Tertre set up their easels, sketching dreamers, couples, and travelers alike — a magical snapshot of Parisian life.
For breakfast, I stopped at Hardware Société, just behind the basilica. Creamy scrambled eggs and strong Australian-style coffee gave me the perfect energy for exploring the hilltop village.
Hidden Corners to Explore:
• Rue de l’Abreuvoir – One of Montmartre’s prettiest streets, perfect for photos.
• Le Consulat Café – Iconic and charming; a must for a coffee break.
• Musée de Montmartre – Small museum full of Belle Époque stories.
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Afternoon – Back to Central Paris & Le Marais
By noon, I descended Montmartre and took the Metro toward central Paris. My next stop was Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissements) — a lively mix of history, fashion, and art.
Lunch was at Clamato, a cozy seafood spot with a relaxed Parisian vibe. Afterward, I strolled the narrow streets, discovering vintage boutiques, art galleries, and cafés tucked away in quiet courtyards.
Sweet Pause:
• Bontemps Pâtisserie – A caramel éclair to savor the moment.
Optional Detours:
• Notre-Dame & Île Saint-Louis – A quick riverside walk.
• Saint-Michel – For books, crêpes, and postcard-perfect moments.
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Evening – Eiffel Tower Glow & Paris by Night
As dusk approached, I headed to the 7th Arrondissement to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle. Watching the sunset behind the tower is unforgettable — the first twinkle of lights makes the city feel alive in a way that no photo can capture.
Dinner was at Les Ombres, a rooftop restaurant with stunning skyline views. Candlelight, fine food, and the glittering Eiffel Tower made the evening feel like pure Parisian magic.
Alternative Dinner Options:
• Le Jules Verne – Dining inside the Eiffel Tower itself.
• Chez Francis – Classic Parisian with tower views.
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Where I Ate & Drank:
• Breakfast: Hardware Société (18th)
• Lunch: Clamato (5th)
• Dessert: Bontemps Pâtisserie (3rd)
• Dinner: Les Ombres (7th)
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Transport Tips:
• Metro Line 12: Direct to Montmartre (Abbesses Station).
• Metro Line 6: Elevated views en route to Eiffel Tower.
• Paris taxis: Reliable for night travel; use G7 or Bolt.
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Safety Tips:
• Montmartre steps can be slippery; wear comfortable shoes.
• Pickpockets are common near Sacré-Cœur and Champs-de-Mars.
• Carry minimal valuables late at night.
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Loved Day 3 ? Don’t miss Day 4 !
