In the past, France in August used to be a ghost town. However, since the Summer Olympics of 2024, Paris in particular has experienced a renaissance, attracting tourists and Instagrammers to the capital and the entire country.
The Palais Garnier opera house in the 9th arrondissement is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable venues to visit. This magnificent building and its interior exemplify the finest blend of Napoleon III’s style, Baroque eclecticism, and opulence.
Just around the corner from the Palais Garnier lies Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, renowned for its breathtaking rotunda. This magnificent structure boasts a roof terrace offering breathtaking views of the city. Nearby, Galeries Vivienne offers a delightful blend of cafes and specialty shops.
Cederic Grolet Opera, a world-renowned patisserie, offers a fantastic afternoon tea with samples of its most amazing offerings. This is one of the many opportunities to indulge in Paris.
Rive Droite, or the Right Bank, is the northern part of Paris, stretching from the Le Marais neighborhood to the Louvre and beyond. It offers a plethora of attractions to explore, including fantastic cafes, luxurious shopping, restaurants, and chic hotels.
The Louvre, the world’s largest and most renowned museum, houses over 35,000 works of art, with its extensive archive boasting more than 550,000 pieces. Among its most celebrated exhibits are the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory, and the Venus de Milo.
The Louvre Couture, one of the most remarkable exhibits at the Louvre, was held over due to popular demand. It showcases exquisite dresses and accessories by renowned designers like Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga, as well as contemporary designers such as Alexander McQueen, Iris van Herpen, Giambattista Valli, and Marine Serre in the most extraordinary environment.
During the Paris 2024 Olympics, the lighting of the Olympic torch and the ascent of the air balloon left an indelible mark on the spectators. In the summer months of 2025, the balloon’s ascent was replicated, becoming a popular attraction at twilight.
Le Tuilieries and Place de la Concorde are the heart of Paris, a place where you can relax and meander for hours. The area embodies the essence of a world-class city, a gift to its citizens.
Champs Elysees is renowned for its luxury boutiques, designer workshops, and the iconic Arc de Triomphe which represents France’s victories in various war over the years including the French Revolution and other Napoleonic wars.
The Eiffel Tower, arguably the most recognizable structure globally, stands as a breathtaking beacon over the city of Paris. Its captivating presence is truly awe-inspiring, transforming into a different masterpiece depending on the time of day.
The Fondation Louis Vuitton, an inspiring structure designed by Frank Gehry, was inaugurated in 2014 and is situated in the outskirts of Paris. Its mission is to make contemporary art accessible to the general public.
The Foundation Louis Vuitton hosted an extraordinary retrospective titled “David Hockney 25,” showcasing the remarkable work of one of the most influential artists of our time, primarily focusing on the past two and a half decades of Hockney’s artistic journey.
The Petit and Grand Palais, as well as the Alexander Bridge, were constructed for the Universal Exposition of 1900, which became synonymous with the Belle Epoque. Today, these iconic structures serve as museums and public spaces, hosting a diverse range of activities.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, located in Montmartre, is a popular tourist destination. The structure’s striking white color is a result of being built from a unique limestone called Château-Landon travertine, which possesses a self-cleaning property. The picturesque neighborhood surrounding the basilica offers breathtaking city views, making it a must-visit for travelers.
On April 15, 2019, a structural fire broke out in the roof space of Notre-Dame de Paris. Since then, an extraordinary effort has been underway to reconstruct and restore the cathedral, and the results are truly breathtaking.
Saint Chapell, a royal chapel nestled within the medieval Palais de la Cité on the Île de la Cité, boasts an interior that is both stunning and unique. Its beauty has endured remarkably since the mid-13th century.
Rive Gauche, or the Left Bank, south of the Seine River, is renowned for its rich artistic, intellectual, and bohemian history. On a hot summer day, Jardin de Luxembourg offers a refreshing respite in the shade, while shopping at the La Grande Épicerie de Paris is a delightful indulgence.
Château de Fontainebleau, a magnificent palace nestled southeast of Paris, offers an ideal destination for a day trip. Renowned for its impeccable preservation, the palace is surrounded by beautiful, expansive gardens and captivating water features.
If you’re fortunate enough to secure a table for Sunday brunch at Monument Café in Château de Fontainebleau, prepare to be delighted, especially if you have a sweet tooth.
Nestled on the shores of Étang de Thau, Bouzigues offers an extraordinary and exquisite culinary experience with its delectable selection of fresh seafood. The laid-back atmosphere elevates the dining experience to new heights.
Béziers, a hidden gem in France, is nestled along the Canal du Midi, the foundation of this remarkable engineering marvel. This charming city exudes a relaxed atmosphere, offering a plethora of captivating cultural experiences and excellent food.
In early August, Béziers hosts the most unlikely event of bullfighting during the Feria de Béziers. This massive party transforms the city into a vibrant hub of activity.
During the summer months, Béziers comes alive at night with a breathtaking display of lights at Fontaine musicale de Béziers. This year’s zodiac theme added an extra layer of interactivity to the already enchanting experience.
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©2025 David Taylor. All rights reserved. This photography may not be reproduced, modified, or distributed without prior written permission. Use for commercial or public display is prohibited.