As an eighteen-year old fresh-faced Australian boy alone and abroad for the first time, getting into strife was an unwritten expectation. However, French standards prevailed, subduing any latent mischievous tendencies that may have arisen. Instead of misbehaviour, the celebrated Parisian sights beckoned, initiating cultural enlightenment - a sojourn laced with charm and sophistication.
Rather than run amok, the tenor of charisma perpetuated by la vie Française taught me a valuable lesson: cultural understanding is derived not only from social norms but from the built environment in which they evolve. As such, in a city – and by extension society – distinctively evocative of classicism, attaining inspiration from your surroundings at any age is possible.
La Tour Eiffel
Internationally renowned, the jewel of the French capital – built in 1887 – magnetises even the most unromantic souls to her lace dress.
Projecting into the heavens from the seventh arrondissement, it's visible from most points throughout Paris. Whether observing it from near or far, the magnitude of its presence is captivating. Despite a rigid metallic framework, the Eiffel Tower’s design is tasteful, embodying the graceful essence of the city it represents.
Young and old alike can appreciate the view from the base but a climb to the top will be even more enjoyable. With a 360-degree unobstructed panorama of Paris, no arrondissement was left unturned.
Don’t forget a jumping snap from the grassy patch near the entrance.
Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile
Another grand piece of architecture that stands out from its surroundings, the Arc de Triomphe – at the top of the Champs-Elysees – is a captivating and ageless Parisian attraction.
Prized for its historical links (originally commissioned for Napoleon), it sits at the centre of Charles de Gaulle, a roundabout from which radiate twelve streets. Needless to say, there are plenty of opportunities for young and old alike to observe Parisian driving and absorb the splendour of the refined city quarter.
For great photographic opportunities, climb the internal staircase to the attic at the Arc’s top.
Notre Dame de Paris
Few other cathedrals around the world exude a sense of Gothicism as does the famous Notre Dame of Paris (even after the tragic fire in 2019).
Simply viewing its medieval design from afar creates an air of mysticism. The closer you draw to the almost seven-hundred-year old structure, the more evident its flawless design becomes.
Bedecked in gargoyles and perched on an island in the Seine, it is a perfect example of fourteenth century Gothicism, ingenuity and craftsmanship.
There are no age limits to appreciating the diverse features inherent to the structure. Even without ecclesiastical inclinations, the architecture and location alone will conjure a sense of curiosity that compels visitors to climb the 387 steps to the bell tower for yet another spectacular city view (if reconstruction work makes it again possible in the future).
Moulin Rouge
Who wouldn’t want to visit Paris’s glitziest theatre, especially after Baz Luhrmann brought it to the world’s attention in his 2001 hit starring Nicole Kidman?
Home to a series of cabaret shows exuding glitz, vigour and a tenor of fin de siècle, the Moulin Rouge – a turn-of-the-nineteenth-century establishment – captures the essence of bohemian France at that time in history. Based on the seductive can-can, visitors can expect to be well entertained and perhaps even encounter that which the theatre’s earliest visitors reported experiencing: “Decadent pleasure.”
Postpone that quizzical look as, according to their website, children above the age of six are permitted entry. Is it child appropriate? Well, if conservative in nature, it could be construed as inappropriate for a person of any age. Is it entertaining? It's a resounding yes!
At least the performers are not topless, in contrast to the theatre across the road - a shocking lesson I learned after the show started!
Musee du Louvre
If you want to see a showcase of some of the world’s finest artwork, then visiting The Louvre is a Parisian must.
Aside from the prominent pyramidal entrance constructed out of glass, the multiple levels replete with historically significant paintings are truly breathtaking. Because of the sheer magnitude of artwork, there is something available to suit every taste, even of youth.
Visited by several million people each year, it has been dubbed the world’s most visited museum. As such, it’s advisable to plan any visit, as the sheer quantity of people and exhibitions can be overwhelming.
Contrary to preconceived expectations, da Vinci’s Mona Lisa was disappointing. However, despite her tiny presence in an oversized room, looking away was somewhat difficult. What creates her magnetic appeal?
La Seine
Coursing through the beating heart of Paris, La Seine – a seven hundred and seventy-seven-kilometre river – is difficult to miss.
With a Greco-Roman name meaning goddess of the river, although partial to paganism, it’s not hard to see how the Seine aptly depicts the sense of romanticism inherent to Paris. Walking across its thirty-seven bridges or along its multitude of riverbank walkways, one thing becomes obvious: Paris, from every Seine-based perspective, is beautiful.
Saint Germain després
Located in the sixth arrondissement, this quarter is famous for a host of historical reasons.
Fame aside (including the hotel in which Oscar Wilde penned his final words), Saint Germain still exhibits characteristics of its enigmatic past: littered with bookstores, museums, designer shops and notable cafes, it entreats visitors with a lively affair. Although its contemporary face has evolved in a direction away from its original charm, such as the prestige of publishing houses and inspirational inhabitants, walking through Saint Germain’s streets is never disappointing.
I found its diversity to be captivating.
Boredom in this quarter is impossible. If it does occur, though, then according to literary genius Samuel Johnson, “you are bored with life.”
Rue des Martyrs
In the words of New York Times author Elaine Scioline, “Rue des Martyrs is a slice of village life” in the heart of Paris.
Although slightly less bucolic than rural France architecturally speaking, the availability of organic, fresh and high-quality French food along this ninth arrondissement street may leave you wondering where you are. With an international reputation for gastronomic cuisine, it’s no surprise the nation’s capital is home to a market street abounding in culinary finesse. With fresh vegetables, candied chestnuts, cured meats and multiple varieties of baguette on display, walking along Martyrs street will have everyone’s tastebuds bounding in delight.
Here, there truly is something to be enjoyed by every age group.
Planning a Trip?
Visiting Paris as an eighteen-year-old was enlightening, rewarding and culturally enriching. Before long, it became evident that Paris is timeless and multidimensional.
As such, there are no age limits to true appreciation of its glory and valuable lessons can be learned by embracing it through the lens of its key sights.
