Paris in a Nutshell

While visiting our son in London late last month, we figured — why not take the train over to Paris? Jacob had already gone to France, and since he had classes that he couldn't miss, it gave John, Hannah and I something to do for a couple of days. 

Without a lot of time, we chose to visit Paris's major tourist attractions. First stop: The Eiffel Tower. Having only seen it in pictures, I found it even more lovely in person. 

We decided to forgo the line for the elevator and take the stairs . . . all 704 of them! Once we reached the top, we were treated to spectacular views of the city and beyond.

I was very impressed with The Paris Metro — quick, clean, and easy!

The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of the French nation. It links old and new Paris.

Built over eight centuries ago, the Cathédrale Notre Dame is truly spectacular.

On the Pont des Arts, a bridge spanning the Seine, thousands of ribbons and padlocks are attached to its railings. To show their undying love, couples place a lock with their names written on it and then throw the key into the river. This bridge is located just across from the Louvre, one of the world's largest museums.

Of course, a visit to Musée du Louvre would not be complete without viewing dear old Mona Lisa. Leonardo da Vinci's famous portrait from the 1500s is smaller than I expected, measuring just 30 inches high.

That's Paris in a nutshell. I loved every minute of it!

Susan

Comments

[Ginene]

I thought the Mona Lisa was smaller than that!
I spent four weeks in Paris and never went inside the Louvre. I sleepwalk in Paris in my mind. I think it is the wonderful place on earth.

[Kristy l.]

My husband and I were in paris in August for our 20th wedding anniversary so I enjoyed comparing photos! I was surprised the grass is still green in November, but I hope you weren't cold. We enjoyed using the metro too and made life easy. We loved the whole city! We missed the lock and key thing though! Dang, a good reason to go back I'd say. :)

[Susan]

Thanks for your comment, Elsie. No, we didn't actually put a lock on the bridge. Perhaps in spirit!

[Elsie]

Oh Susan everything is sooo dang beautiful. I find that quite interesting that the Mona Lisa is only 30". I pictured it to be much larger than that. I want to know, did you and John put a lock on that fence...hmmm.
Thank you so much for sharing your pictures. I truly enjoyed them for I know I will never get that far away from home.