Explore the best of Paris in one unforgettable day — from the Arc de Triomphe’s iconic views and Galeries Lafayette’s golden dome to the opulent Opera Garnier and the breathtaking stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle.
✨Morning Glory at the Arc de Triomphe
Our final full day in Paris dawned bright and beautiful — the kind of morning that makes you pinch yourself just to be sure you’re really here. With coffee in hand and the crisp Parisian air swirling around us, we set out early to visit one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Arc de Triomphe.
Standing beneath its monumental arches, it’s impossible not to feel small in the best way. The traffic around it was chaotic, a swirl of honking scooters and tiny cars, while tourists (ourselves included) darted out for that perfect photo. The intricate carvings, towering columns, and eternal flame honoring the Unknown Soldier gave us chills.
We captured dozens of photos from the safe pedestrian islands (a must — don’t step into traffic!) and admired the symmetry of the Champs-Élysées stretching endlessly in both directions. It was the perfect start to a day dedicated to Parisian beauty, elegance, and art.
💎Glamour at Galeries Lafayette
From the Arc, we made our way to Galeries Lafayette, the crown jewel of Parisian shopping. Even if you don’t plan to shop, this place is a must-visit.
Stepping inside feels like entering a cathedral — not of religion, but of fashion. The golden Art Nouveau dome above glittered in the morning light, and tiers of designer boutiques wrapped around like layers of a wedding cake.
We took eskalators to the free rooftop terrace, which offered one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Paris. The Eiffel Tower rose proudly in the distance, rooftops stretched endlessly, and the city below seemed to hum with life.
Inside, we browsed the consignment boutique, amused by the $650 price of a “discounted” T-shirt. The glamour here is intoxicating — part fantasy, part art form.
✨ Pro Tip: The rooftop terrace at Galeries Lafayette is free and open year-round — visit early for soft morning light and fewer crowds.
☕ The Fanciest Starbucks in the World
A short stroll away, we found ourselves in what might just be the most elegant Starbucks on Earth. Forget your usual corner coffee shop — this one gleamed with chandeliers, gold trim, and plush velvet seating.
We ordered the Oleato Olive Oil Blonde Roast, a new creation that somehow worked — rich, silky, and smooth. I also grabbed a toasted grilled cheese and a yogurt parfait for lunch. Even a quick meal felt luxurious here; every detail screamed Parisian opulence.
It’s the kind of place where you can linger for hours and pretend you’re writing the next great novel, coffee in hand and dreams in your heart.
🎭 Opera Garnier — The Heart of Parisian Grandeur
Next, we toured the Palais Garnier, the home of the legendary Phantom of the Opera. And oh, what a masterpiece it is! Every inch — from the marble staircases to the frescoed ceilings — radiates elegance and artistry.
The grand staircase alone could make you gasp; climbing it feels like stepping into a royal ball. The golden balconies, the mirrored halls, and the painted ceilings by Marc Chagall above the stage were nothing short of spectacular.
The library, tucked quietly away, was a hidden gem — ornate, intimate, and filled with centuries of history. Of all the grand halls we visited in France, this was one of the most breathtaking — I even preferred its Hall of Mirrors to Versailles because of the smaller crowds and the intimacy it exuded.
💡 Tip: Book an audio or self-guided tour in advance. Even if you’ve never seen an opera, Palais Garnier is pure art.
🌈 An Afternoon of Color — Sainte-Chapelle’s Radiance
As afternoon turned to golden hour, we made our way to Sainte-Chapelle, nestled on the Île de la Cité near Notre-Dame. The security guards (handsome Gendarmes included 😉) checked our tickets, and after a small mix-up — we discovered our tickets purchased through Travelocity were invalid — we may have shed a few tears at the thought of missing this glorious location, seeing 6 women all upset must have worked some kind of magic because we were allowed in anyway. 💡PRO Tip: Always check the validity of tour tickets etc. We have never run into this issue before or since, however you may not be as forutnate to be allowed entry if it ends up that your tickets are invalid… Best way to avoid this concern is to purchase through reputable companies such as Get Your Guide or directly from the location/activitities website.
The moment we stepped inside, every breath caught in our throats. Light streamed through 15 towering stained glass windows, each panel depicting intricate biblical scenes in vibrant blues, reds, and golds.
The glow was ethereal — it felt as though heaven itself had descended into the chapel. We stood there for nearly an hour, entranced by the kaleidoscope of color dancing across the stone floor.
No photo can ever do it justice. Sainte-Chapelle must be felt, not just seen.
Evening at Shakespeare & Co. & the Latin Quarter
After leaving the chapel, we wandered through the Latin Quarter, soaking up the lively atmosphere — cafés spilling onto sidewalks, musicians playing along the Seine, and the faint scent of crêpes wafting through the air.
We browsed the iconic Shakespeare & Company Bookstore, a haven for book lovers. Its creaky floors, hand-written notes tucked in books, and literary ghosts made it feel like home.
As the sun began to set we popped into Saint Severin Cathedral where we were so impressed with the incredible painted glass windows, massive arches and enjoyed the peaceful stillness and quiet found in the midst of a lively city.
Dinner was at Le Chalet Saint Michel, where I savored a caprese salad, salmon pasta, and (of course) a creamy crème brûlée for dessert. The night ended perfectly — full hearts, full bellies, and the glow of Paris still dancing in our eyes.
🪞Pro Tips for Day 3 in Paris
- Visit Galeries Lafayette in the morning for the best lighting. *It’s FREE!
- Book Opera Garnier and Sainte-Chapelle timed entries in advance.
- Always check ticket sources carefully — book directly or via @GetYourGuide to avoid scams.
- Don’t miss Shakespeare & Co. for a slice of literary history! Have them stamp your book for a FREE souvenier!
If this journey through Paris inspired you, make sure to subscribe for more travel stories, tips, and photo guides — and explore the links below to plan your own unforgettable visit & head Services tab to snag the France & Paris guides to assist with your travel planning. Trust me, Paris is a destination you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home!
With love from the “City of Light”,
~Krista
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