Is Paris overrated, or just overwhelming?

When people ask me where I love to travel besides Dublin, my answer is always Paris. I’m not usually someone who obsesses over architecture, but how can you not be captivated by the city's bright white buildings, cobblestone streets, and historical landmarks shimmering throughout?

That said, Paris can be overwhelming—with over 136 museums, thousands of restaurants, and a language barrier, it’s hard to know where to start. So, here’s a sneak peek at my favorite spots:

Museums

• Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum) – A must-visit for history lovers. This massive museum takes you through France’s past, covering Napoleon’s reign, the French Revolution, and my personal favorite—World War II. It’s fascinating to see the war from the French perspective.

• Musée d’Orsay – My pick for art lovers. That’s right—I didn’t say the Louvre! While the Louvre is impressive (and home to the Mona Lisa), I found the Orsay to have more recognizable works, featuring masterpieces by Van Gogh and Monet. Plus, it’s far less crowded and much more peaceful.

Restaurant

• Les Antiquaires – A charming spot near the Seine serving incredible traditional French cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a late-afternoon cheeseboard and champagne, a gorgeous dinner, or a classic Croque Monsieur for lunch, this place is perfect any time of day.

Landmark

• Skip the Eiffel Tower—Go for the Arc de Triomphe – Instead of waiting in long, crowded lines, head to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for a stunning panoramic view of the city. Afterward, stop by 20 Eiffel, a cozy café nearby, to sip on a latte—or some champs 😉—while enjoying a picture-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower.