Rick Steves Best of Paris in 7 Days Tour Scrapbook!
Day 4:
Marvelous Marais
and the Moulin Rouge
Morning in Marais
Day 4 of the tour began with an incredible guided walk through the historic district of Le Marais, which translates to "the marsh." Our local guide led us through its rich history, showcasing its many transformations. Once an aristocratic neighborhood, it fell into decline after the French Revolution but was later revived to restore and preserve its breathtaking landmarks, such as Place des Vosges. Beautifully preserved 17th-century grand townhouses, like Hôtel de Sully and Hôtel de Beauvais, now serve as museums, including the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris. The area also features medieval buildings, particularly around Rue des Rosiers in the historic Jewish quarter.
Hôtel de Ville
Church of Saint-Gervais
The Forney Library
Hôtel de Sully
SWEET STOP!
About midway through our stroll, Virginie surprised us with a delicious treat from one of her favorite shops! They were to die for! The perfect confection if there ever was one. Though I often am too busy enjoying food and the tour to remember the name of the establishment I made sure to nab this one -- Aux Merveilleux de Fred!
Afternoon
Lunch
After our tour through Marais, we were sent off to wander and even grab lunch before our next excursion. Several of us stumbled upon a restaurant called Chez Marianne HOWEVER with an adorable cat nested above it. The chicken was AMAZING! ​
THE LOUVE
After lunch, the tour continued on to the infamous Louve! This HUGE museum needs no description I'm sure! Though it holds precious relics of culture, history and art, our tour was very focused. Though I have too many pictures to share, I'll share a few of the marvels that grabbed my attention! You'll have to just go yourself!
Crown Jewels to crown molding!
From precious gems to the Mona Lisa, there was so much to take in, and after our tour we had the option to explore the museum even more -- however, I was a bit in need of rest so I went back to the hotel. Before I knew it, it was night and I found myself curious to explore. Virginie had previously mentioned how great the Moulin Rouge was so I went searching for tickets and I managed to nab the last one of the night! With that, I hopped in an Uber and headed to Montmartre for the show!
Evening...
What an incredible sight! People dressed to impressed ready for an incredible show! You can buy tickets that come with dinner, however, I opted for just the show. Funnily enough I was seated next to two women who were visiting from San Diego! All three of us enjoyed the show and were equally surprised by it! I'd describe it as a mix between cabaret and Cirque du Soleil! Worth checking out!
a late night snack
By the time I got out of the show it was so late that most places had closed their kitchens. I headed back to the hotel and was bummed to find everything closed around there too. Everywhere except for one place right up the street...
Eiffel Burger.
