Our visit to Paris began on Monday with travel from London via Eurostar. The journey was smooth and efficient. Upon arrival, we checked into our hotel, conveniently located near Notre Dame Cathedral. Its central position enabled us to walk to many of the main attractions, often following the banks of the Seine, which provided a highly enjoyable and scenic route.

Later that afternoon, we visited the Centre Pompidou, a striking example of modern architecture and home to an impressive collection of contemporary art. In addition to the exhibitions, the Pompidou’s rooftop terrace offered excellent panoramic views over Paris, giving us a wonderful first impression of the city's scale and beauty. In the evening, we relaxed with a sightseeing cruise on the Seine, a memorable way to see some of Paris’ most iconic monuments illuminated at night.

On Tuesday, we visited Notre Dame Cathedral, where the extent of the restoration work following the 2019 fire was clearly visible. Despite the ongoing repairs, the cathedral’s historical and architectural significance was unmistakable. Inside Notre Dame is brighter and cleaner than I have ever seen, the paintings are all so colourful now. We then walked to the Musée Carnavalet, an outstanding museum dedicated to the history of Paris. The exhibitions were thoughtfully arranged, providing a coherent narrative of the city’s development across centuries. Afterwards, we visited the nearby Maison Victor Hugo in the Place des Vosges, exploring the preserved rooms, unique decoration and personal belongings of the celebrated French writer.

Wednesday was devoted to The Louvre. Returning to this world-renowned museum was a highlight of the trip. Using a carefully planned route, we were able to revisit major works such as the Mona Lisa, as well as spend time exploring the extensive collections of sculpture and antiquities. Despite the museum’s size and popularity, the experience remained enjoyable and well-paced thanks to our planning.

On Thursday morning, we walked along the Seine to the Musée d'Orsay, located within the beautifully repurposed former Gare d'Orsay railway station. The museum’s extensive Impressionist collection, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh, was particularly impressive. They have a short film we enjoyed, explaining the transformation from train station to art gallery. We also visited their fabulous cafe, with great food and excellent service.

In the afternoon and evening, we explored Montmartre, beginning with a ride up the hill via the funicular. We visited the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offered outstanding views across Paris. Walking through the winding streets of Montmartre, we also saw the Moulin de la Galette, an important historic site and popular subject for many Impressionist painters. Our exploration culminated with an evening performance at the Moulin Rouge — a lively, colourful show which provided an enjoyable glimpse into the entertainment history of Paris.

Throughout the trip, walking was an integral and enjoyable part of our experience, particularly along the Seine and through the historic districts. Travelling largely on foot allowed us to experience the atmosphere of Paris more intimately, discovering small streets, squares, and unexpected views along the way.

On Friday, we returned home, reflecting on a highly rewarding week that balanced cultural exploration, historical education, and the pleasures of simply experiencing the city.

I cannot wait to visit Paris again!