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Paris 3 Day Travel Itinerary

Traveling to Paris and looking for information on the best restaurants, desserts, and sight seeing? Look no further, this blog post has it all!

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.

Paris was the second city I visited as part of my European tour with London as the first stop. Read more about my London trip here. Since I was already in London, I booked a trip on the Eurostar to take a beautiful scenic train ride to Paris which left from the London St. Pancras station and arrived in Paris Gare du Nord. The train ride took about 2 ½ hours and the price can range anywhere between €50.00+ Euros. Book your trip on the Eurostar here.

Paris Day 1

Highlights

Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry

Morning

We arrived in Paris early so after settling into our Airbnb, my sister and I took to exploring the beautiful Paris neighborhood by way of the Paris Metro (train) and on foot. Learn more and purchase your tickets for the Paris Metro here and read more about my other travels overseas using the public transit system here.

Afternoon

My first day in Paris got off to a rough start due to a miscalculation. When exiting off my stop there were ticketing officers asking for the train ticket you purchased. My sister and I didn’t know we were supposed to hold onto the tickets so we threw them away. We were fined I believe €40 Euros which had to be paid immediately. Learn from my mistake, and hold onto your tickets indefinitely!

Evening

Paris weather can be a toss up, and the day we arrived it rained heavily on and off. Needless to say we got stuck in it. We were going to the Catacombs of Paris which after all that traveling and rigmarole was closed! There wasn’t enough time to revisit so if you go, let me know how it is. For dinner, I ate a very delicious Indian meal at Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry. My sister and I were so hungry photos were not taken, but I highly recommend it.

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Paris Day 2

Highlights

HolyBelly, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Gossellin, Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor, Quay of the Tuileries, Tuileries Garden, Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie

Morning

After catching up on rest, I woke up refreshed and ready to dominate the city. Breakfast started off at the very delicious Holybelly. There was a line out the door, but trust me it’s worth the wait. I opted for the eggs, bacon, french bread, and pancakes. The vibe of this restaurant felt very “Parisian”.

Holybelly breakfast — Breakfast at Holybelly

Next stop on the list, the Eiffel Tower! If you follow me on Facebook, I mention how my sister and I walked the 600+ steps to the top instead of taking the elevator. Keep in mind the Eiffel Tower has a 2^nd Floor, and a summit floor. Travel tip: You’re allowed to walk up to the 2^nd Floor and it’s also cheaper at nearly €11 Euros. Read more about it here.

Afternoon

You know by now that I love museums, so the first one I visited was the Musée d’Orsay. The artwork in the museum is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a must see if you’re in Paris. After exploring the museum, what good would I be if I didn’t sample all of the deliciousness Paris has to offer? Dessert at the Gosselin was next and where I fell in love with eclairs and chocolate croissants.

After a quick bite we began exploring again on foot to see the Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor a footbridge over the River Seine. Passerelle links the Musée d’Orsay and Tuileries Garden. The Quay of the Tuileries is such a scenic walk with beautiful views of the water. You’ll see many people walking, running, and taking photos. Travel tip: The Tuileries Garden is a great way to explore France for free. You can think of it as Paris’s version of Central Park. I was in complete awe of the beautiful greenery and statues throughout the garden.

Evening

The Airbnb I stayed in had a very good bakery nearby named Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie (this place was recommended by our host). I did as the locals do and purchased a Paris baguette as well as an assortment of baked goods for dinner.

Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie desserts — Baked goods at Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie

Paris Day 3

Highlights

Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, Place Clemenceau, Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Arc de Triomphe, Forum Des Halles, L’as Du Fallafel, L’Equateur

Morning

The third day in Paris was even more jammed packed than the second day as we tried to make up for lost time on day 1. I wanted to make sure I had the opportunity to experience all of the landmarks. After a brief photo shoot where I had the opportunity to model my Paris outfit, the first stop on the list was Palais-Royal and the famous Louvre Museum.

The Louvre Museum while extraordinary, was extremely packed (and with good reason). If you’re planning a trip try to get there early. Be forewarned it’s almost impossible to get an up close picture of the Mona Lisa, however it’s an experience seeing it in person. It’s worth mentioning the other impressive artwork collection the museum holds.

Afternoon

After the museum, I walked through the Place Clemenceau, and Champs-Élysées which runs through to the Arc de Triomphe. If you love shopping, restaurants, bars, cafés, theater etc. the Champs-Élysées is the place to be. Want to see a well known monument? The Grand Palais is dedicated to French art and is within walking distance.

Speaking of monuments, a visit to Paris would be incomplete without a trip to the iconic Arc de Triomphe. You can climb the Arc de Triomphe to the top, however my sister and I opted to stay at the ground level. The Arc de Triomphe honors the soldiers who fought for France.

Arc de Tromphe in Paris — Arc de Triomphe

The Forum Des Halles is a shopping mall in the center of Paris with PLENTY to do. Seriously, you could easily spend a day here if you love shopping so I suggest you plan ahead. There’s a store for every budget, and plenty of restaurants.

Evening

Next up, L’as Du Fallafel. I love Lenny Kravitz, so when I found out he loved fallafel and recommended this place, it was a must that I go and check it out. The fallafels were served hot, very filling, and delicious! You won’t be disappointed if you eat here.

L'AS Du Fallafel in Paris — L’as Du Fallafel

Speaking of restaurants, one of my favorites during this trip was L’Equateur. If you love Senegalese, Cameroonian, and Caribbean fare; or are interested in expanding your cultural horizons this is THE place to go.

Do your research and translation beforehand as the menu is in French. The waiters are also willing to help if you have any questions. I had the grilled chicken, rice, and plantain; the chef seasoned the chicken was so well! I honestly can’t wait to go back when I revisit.

Dinner at L'Equateur a restaurant in Paris — Dinner at L’Equateur

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Final Thoughts

Well, that concludes my Paris 3 Day Travel Itinerary. I hope I piqued your interest and shared helpful tips. To book some of the activities discussed in this post, or to plan your own, check this out.

As always, thank you so much for reading. Would you travel to Paris? Learn anything new, or have any feedback? Was this itinerary helpful? Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me.

Please share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.

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Blog Disclaimer

I am not the artist, nor do I take any of the credit of any of the beautiful artwork or sculptures displayed from the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in this blog post.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.

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Paris 3 day travel itinerary Pinterest pin

Three Amazing Days in London

Traveling to the city of London and strapped for time? This travel itinerary will give you some great ideas on must sees, eats, and fun! I will also share with you the best time to visit this iconic city. Get ready, this itinerary is jammed pack, so feel free to pick and choose the activities that interest you the most.

If you follow me on social media, I mentioned traveling to London for the first time 23 years ago. I’ve been multiple times since then, and I honestly can’t get enough. It’s a city I like to call my second home. When traveling to London, keep in mind London weather can be a toss up; it can be rainy, cold, snowy, etc. I lucked out when I traveled in May as the weather was beautiful and hot.

London Day 1

What to See

The day we arrived, my sister and I got right into it. We went to the Imperial War Museum (we both love museums). The IWM is a somber experience, however it’s a great museum to visit especially if you’re into history. Another great museum to visit would be the British Museum which is one of the largest museums documenting human culture. After the museum, we did some exploring on foot. I took some photos near the iconic red phone booth, and explored Piccadilly Circus (in the heart of London) a junction of 5 busy streets, Soho, and Chinatown in Westminster (Central London).

Imperial War Museum in London with canons in front — Imperial War Museum

Black woman in London posing in front of the red telephone booth — Imperial War Museum

What to Eat in London

After all of that walking, I was ready for some much needed noms. When in London, it’s a must you check out Poppies. My sister and I went specifically for their Fish and Chips, and it did not disappoint!

Fish and chips dinner in London at Poppies restaurant — Poppies Fish and Chips (Fries)

How to Explore on a Budget in London

I’m used to commuting as a New Yorker which has been a long tradition of mine, so while visiting other countries if possible, I try to utilize their transit system. While traveling around London, my sister and I took the bus and train like true Londeners thanks to Sadiq Khan who helped make London transportation more accessible. The Underground tube (train) and bus are very easy to navigate. I would suggest getting an Oyster card as it’s very easy to refill without having to worry about buying tickets.

London Day 2

What to Eat

To start the day off right, I just had to have a true English breakfast at Regency Cafe. Fun fact: My parents lived in England prior to moving to the US, and would cook this for my sisters and I sometimes for breakfast. While exploring, I went to Borough Market which is one of the oldest food markets in London. If you’re looking for open events this is a great option. Everything I had was so delicious; SERIOUSLY yummy baked goods (breads, donuts), and all kinds of different cheeses (I was in Carb heaven).

Scrambled eggs, sausage, beans, and ham breakfast in London — English Breakfast at Regency Cafe

What to Do

First stop on the list, was Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guards ceremony. This ceremony is free of charge and pretty cool to watch if you’re able to. Read more about it here. I would suggest visiting the Tower of London as well to learn more about the royal palace. After the ceremony, I took the city bus to Trafalgar Square which is a landmark, and signifies the British victory against the French and Spanish. Love shopping like me? Then you must check out Harrods which is a very famous luxury department store.

Changing of the Guards Ceremony in London with Guards dressed in red, white, and black uniforms — Changing of the Guards Ceremony

After shopping, London Bridge, and Camden Market were up next. Read more about the London Bridge here. Camden Market is awesome if you’re into rock and roll and all things unconventional. Lined with shops, fashion, graffiti, cafes, bars, and restaurants; it’s a place you should highly consider checking out. To party and chill for the night, we went to Lockside Camden which was probably my favorite nighttime spot in London.

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London Day 3

Sites to Explore on Foot

So the final full day of London was extremely busy just like the two days prior. I actually had a photo shoot with an amazing photographer, and was able to capture some great shots whilst visiting tourist attractions. I was able to see Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, River Thames, Westminster Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben, Southbank Centre, and Jubilee Gardens.

Black woman standing in front of Westminster Abbey — Standing in front of Westminster Abbey

Memorable Eats

I couldn’t help but bring out my bougie side while attending afternoon high tea at the very beautiful and classy Wallace Collection Restaurant. I’ve mentioned to you guys multiple times that I LOVE tea, so tea paired with sandwiches, cakes, and scones?! SIGN ME UP IMMEDIATELY. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and would highly recommend it.

Scones, sandwiches, cakes, and tea at the Afternoon High Tea Ceremony at the Wallace Collection Restaurant — Afternoon High Tea Goodies

More Ideas

I wanted to see more sites, but didn’t have as much time to continue exploring on foot. Luckily the red double decker hop-on, hop off bus tour exists. Why take it? It’s reasonably priced, and you can get off at any time. If you do decide to take this tour, you must sit at the top! Aim to do this on a very nice day (although you can still enjoy this tour on the lower level too). It’s a great way to see London especially if you’re strapped for time.

Two black sisters exploring London on the Red Double Decker Bus Tour — Red Double Decker Bus Tour w/my big sis in London!

Keep in mind, this list isn’t conclusive as I only scratched the surface. You can always check out the University of London, Royal Parks, or some of the London Boroughs and exhibition spaces to name a few. Well, that concludes my three day itinerary in London. I hope I helped and inspired you to travel there because I had a blast!

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Pinterest pin on three amazing days in London with a red bus and Big Ben in the background — Three Amazing Days in London Pinterest Pin

Final Thoughts

As always, thank you so much for reading. Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. To book some of the tours and activities discussed on this trip, or to plan your own click here. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.

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How to Plan Your Trip to Aruba

A Little Bit About Aruba

Aruba, also known as: “One Happy Island”, is one of the Caribbean islands located in the South Caribbean and belongs to the Netherlands. The official language spoken in Aruba are Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish, however; Dutch and Papiamento are their primary languages and it’s one of the best places you can travel to. Aruba is one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), and is a relatively small island to explore. The major airport you’ll fly into is the Queen Beatrix International Airport. Now that we know a little more about Aruba, read on for my Aruba itinerary.

An interesting fact about Aruba is that the climate is great to travel to almost any time of the year because it is south of the hurricane belt so no hurricane season. This means perfectly sunny days, gorgeous beaches, turquoise water, with little to no chance of rain. I love to plan ahead so I used this site to help put together my Aruba travel guide. The flight to Aruba itself wasn’t too long clocking in at about 4 hours 45 minutes from NYC. If you’re flying in from the west coast allot for more travel time.

About Aruba Continued…

Things to keep in mind: Aruba is a VERY popular destination. If you can, the best time (and in my opinion the best way) is to try and take your vacation when it isn’t high season. I booked my trip in September which is considered a slower time on the island and the best option for my travel experience. A bonus to going in the off season is a much quieter and peaceful experience. Another bonus is scoring a great deal on both my flight and hotel due to off peak prices.

FYI, Aruba is one of the more expensive islands so prepare well for this. The official currency of the country is the Aruban Florin, but United States (US) currency is widely accepted as well as major credit cards or debit cards on the island of Aruba. In retrospect, it is probably easier to just use U.S. dollars.

Where to Stay in Aruba

There’s a plethora of hotel options to stay at while on the island suitable for anyone’s budget. I stayed at the Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino which is not only a great place, but a great option if you’re looking to be close to the beach. The customer service was impeccable as well as the amenities included and I had a good time.

The room I stayed in had spacious accommodations, a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and stove if you’d like to prepare your own meals; private balcony, pools, a swim up pool bar, and live entertainment. (Check my Pinterest story on Aruba here). Aruba has plenty of all inclusive resorts, and luxury resorts if you’d prefer to stay in one.

The resort also provides beach towels free of charge; simply sign out one with your name and room number (There is a fee if you lose the towel so be careful). The hotel is centrally located; a quick walk from the hotel would take you to the supermarket as well as within walking distance to other major hotels and restaurants nearby.

Transportation in Aruba

The bus stop to get into town was also close by so public transportation was pretty accessible. The bus system was awesome in Aruba, super clean, ran on time, and it runs late. The island has bus maps with schedules to follow which makes it easy and convenient. Plus at $2.60 one way it’s super cheap. Similar to NYC with the Metrocard, the Aruba bus system has their own version; so purchasing and adding money towards your fare is really easy.

The bus is slower though it travels all over the island. If that doesn’t convince you, local taxis are available on the island as well. Taxis can add up, so why not blend in like a local? In my opinion it makes for a more authentic experience and the easiest way you get to really take in the island.

Whichever route you decide definitely plan your time accordingly! Some days I took the bus, but most days I took a taxi out of convenience. There’s also car rentals available. Here’s one of my travel tips: I became friends with one of my taxi drivers, and he actually became my personal taxi for the remainder of the trip which was really helpful.

Public transportation in Aruba — City Bus in Aruba

Where to Eat in Aruba

Breakfast

Those of you who have followed me for awhile know food is my thing! So naturally I couldn’t wait to sample all of the seafood and yummy noms on the island. For breakfast, I mostly ate at the breakfast buffet located at my hotel called Double Down Sports Bar & Grill (they have a daily buffet breakfast for $12.50).

On days I switched things up, I went to breakfast at Diana’s Pancake Place and Dutch Pancake House; both places specialize in Dutch-style pancakes and Poffertjes (silver dollar pancakes). If you’re in the mood for something familiar, there’s a Dunkin Donuts right on the hotel property.

Lunch|Dinner

For lunch and dinner I tried quite a few different places located either on the property, in town, or included with the excursions. Uncle Tony’s Pizza (located on the property) was one as well as The West Deck (absolutely delicious and one of my favs), Red Fish (also very good for fresh seafood), Driftwood (one of the best restaurants), Arashi Beach Shack, Pelican Nest Seafood Grill (part of the excursion and very good), The Old Fisherman, Moomba Beach, and Big Mama’s Grill (San Nicolas).

Pro tip: During my visit, Aruba restaurant week was ongoing which for some places meant 3 course pre-fixe meals for affordable prices downtown Oranjestad. A good idea is to try to research beforehand to see if it’s going on the time you’ll be there.

Hack for Dinner in Aruba

As promised in my social media sneak preview, the hack for Passions on the Beach is a 3 course pre-fixe meal for 2 for $130 including a bottle of wine. Passions did not participate in restaurant week, however in my opinion this deal cannot be beat. When you factor in the ambiance of the restaurant, a beach side view, live entertainment, and a delicious meal, it’s well worth the price. Keep in mind this deal might not be offered all the time so call ahead to verify.

Honorable mention is Zeerovers. Though I didn’t get a chance to dine there, I was told by a local personally that it’s a place you should definitely check out to taste local food during your Aruba vacation. I can say with all honesty I really enjoyed pretty much every restaurant on the island, salute to the chefs!

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West Deck Restaurant in Aruba for dinner with snapper filet — West Deck Restaurant

The Dutch Pancake House in Aruba with Poffertjes breakfast — West Deck Restaurant

Exploring in Aruba

Most people think of Aruba as a honeymoon location, a cruise ships stop, a place for family vacation, or for older people. However, there is a surge of younger people traveling to the island. In fact, I’ve come across people who love Aruba so much they mentioned it was their 4^th or 5^th time going! I know I will definitely return at some point.

This first visit I went with my mom as our annual trip together and we both had a blast. Aruba offers nightlife options as well, so don’t think you can’t go with your girlfriends or guy friends and not have fun. Check out some of the neighboring hotels, casinos, clubs, or lounges and hit the dance floor! I personally enjoyed South Beach Aruba, and the Hard Rock Cafe which has live entertainment.

A great way to learn about Aruba and its history is to attend the Bon Bini Festival which takes place every Tuesday. It’s very reasonably priced and interactive. Plus you can get authentic cuisine courtesy of the locals. Funny story, I was actually pulled up to dance during the festival. My mom who thought she was recording actually wasn’t so I don’t have it on video lol. If you’re looking for a free way to explore the island catch the Aruba streetcar/trolley (you can hop on and off at any time and it’s a nice slow ride).

Things to Do in Aruba

I love all things water and warm weather, so I took the Sunset Cruise & Seaside Dinner offered through Viator. This cruise offers light refreshments, spectacular ocean views, and a bar on board if you plan to opt out of the dinner. Plus pretty much everyone dances on the ship. I also booked the Aruba Island Tour, this tour picks you up directly from the hotel as long as it’s centrally located. The tour makes stops to the Aloe Vera Factory (which has awesome lotions, soaps, and deodorants to purchase), Casibari Rock Formation, Natural Bridge at Arikok National Park, Alto Vista Chapel, the California Lighthouse, and even some of the residences in the neighborhood.

If you love nature and wildlife, try the Half-Day Animal Sanctuary Tour. This tour takes you to the Aruba Ostrich Farm, Donkey Sanctuary, and Philips Animal Garden where you’ll have the opportunity to support the sanctuaries, feed the animals, and learn about the wildlife. Shopping is also abundant in Aruba; check out Paseo Herencia, Palm Beach Plaza Mall, or Renaissance Mall.

Aruba Continued…

If you aren’t much of a shopping person, you can always go kite surfing, go to a full-service spa, horseback riding, swim in an outdoor pool or natural pool, play water sports, go scuba diving in the Caribbean sea to see the marine life, take a jeep tour, visit the butterfly farm, drive through the entire island, go to Stellaris casino at Aruba Marriott Resort (there’s other casino options too), or visit one of the beautiful beaches and just take in the sun since it’s a tropical climate.

The first time I went to Aruba I did not have enough time to visit Flamingo Beach. If you’d like to go, you can either stay at the Renaissance Aruba Resort or purchase a day pass which will take you to Renaissance Island. Although I was not able to do this, I have heard it’s one of the best experiences.

Places to Go in Aruba

Last but definitely not least if you aren’t in a rush, one of the important things I would highly suggest is taking a mini day trip to San Nicolas for the culture and history alone. It’s very easy to get there, it’s about a 45 minute drive. The taxi man I befriended took me there and back.

In addition, San Nicolas also has Baby Beach which is one of the best beaches besides Eagle Beach. What makes Baby Beach special (aside from the breathtaking view), is that the water is so shallow, that you can venture far into the water and still touch the bottom. Of course always exercise caution and be safe. That being said, San Nicolas is worth taking the time out to visit.

Aruba Streetcar Trolley — Streetcar/Trolley

Philips Animal Garden — Streetcar/Trolley

Final Thoughts

Well, that concludes my trip to Aruba. I hope this blog post was helpful and piqued your interest in visiting and has given you peace of mind in planning your next trip. FYI: Aruba is a hot destination, make sure you have a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect and block out the sun!

Thank you guys so much for reading please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.

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