Paris — the city of love, cheese and wine — needs no introduction. Lovers come here to renew their vows, families to learn about history, tourists to bask in what is known as the “Parisian culture” — every one comes to Paris with expectations and more often than not, leave satiated.

Paris will always have something new each time you visit. But a few things remain constant — the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur (Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris) and the Eiffel Tower. But what I want to tell you isn’t just about what you would see, but how you can take in this city and let it become part of you. Here is how you should see Paris to fall in love with it in five days 

Street-corner cafés and bistros

As a traveller, the first thing I want to do is try local cuisine. I love experimenting and enjoy trying out what the locals have to offer. There are so many restaurants that travel websites talk about, but the best surprises are the little bistros and cafés. You might struggle a little with the French, but don’t let that get you down. French food is diverse and has something for everyone, find what interests you and devour it. My favourite is steak frites and delicious buttered fish with radish, an unlikely combination but as delicious as it gets. I love Bistro 25 on Champs Élysées for its location, food and ambience

Do touristy things differently

Don’t just go to see the Eiffel Tower. Relax on the Champ De Mars, grab a quick bite, walk on the lush gardens around the tower and take in the beauty of the structure. I understand there is a lot to see and do in five days, but the point of a holiday is to relax, and what better way to do it than on the grass staring at the monument with the Seine nearby

Desserts desserts desserts!

I have a massive sweet tooth. Even though I can’t indulge myself always, there are no rules when in Paris. I love the pain au chocolat, my quick fix between meals. It is a puff pastry stuffed with chocolate — team it with some coffee or hot chocolate — and you’re good to go. Don’t miss the lemon tart or the éclairs, stand in queue and have a financier, find nice gelato and ice cream places, try the macaroons and crepes. Try the amazing Profiteroles — you will not be able to eat just one. Paris is the best place to indulge your 
sweet tooth

Moulin Rouge

I am sure you would spend the whole day seeing the Louvre — it does take the whole day so don’t skimp out on it. But once done, there are two night shows you cannot miss. The Moulin Rouge is the original cabaret of Paris — it is where the Can Can dance form originated. It is scintillating and as a dancer myself, I was mesmerised by the talent and the production. Go to the one near Montmartre Blanche station — it is the best there is. If you can’t get tickets to Moulin Rouge, try catching a show of the Cirque Du Soleil 

Shopping

I am a typical tourist when it comes to shopping. Vacations are taken only to shop and I believe there is no harm in spending on yourself after working hard the whole year. Paris gives you a lot of tax back on your shopping. Buy the brands you’ve been meaning to and get some money back. Don’t forget to ask before if they are a tax saving shop.
First-time travellers take note: Paris is beautiful, but there are parts that are unsafe. So, please take care of your belongings, I have had my pocket picked once and I almost swore never to come back. If you want to have a good holiday, stay safe.

Paris makes you feel rich in culture, style, and class and poor that you don’t stay here. It has a beautiful mix of old and new in the trends, architecture or people. But I would suggest you go to this city, especially if on a small trip, with no expectations. Let the city do what it does best — take you in and make you fall in love. Which is why when a tourist leaves, they always say: “Paris, je t’aime (Paris, I Love You!)!”

As told to Bharati K. Dubey