Cross the majestic Alexander III Bridge
The river crossings in Paris are among the most beautiful in the world, and the Alexander III Bridge spanning the Seine River is no exception, with its display of sculptures and gorgeous views of city sites like the Eiffel Tower. It was built in 1900 to showcase the City of Light for the Exposition Universelle, a world’s fair that saw the first displays of electric lights and other modern marvels.
Take in fabulous fall views from atop the Eiffel Tower
Don’t skip a visit to one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Visitors find that experiencing its bold and beautiful form in person is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Most people don’t realize that its designer, Gustave Eiffel, added a secret apartment near the top. It’s now open to visitors, so be sure and stop in and picture your life from this magnificent perch. And while you don’t need to ascend the Tower twice, you’ll want to see it at night when the lights sparkle.
Tip: You can ride the elevator up to the observation decks or climb the stairs. Either way be sure to get tickets in advance, as lines can be long.
Treat yourself to famous French baked goods
When the temperatures drop, fresh flaky pastries and handmade baguettes are in their full glory — especially when paired with a rich cup of café au lait. Better yet, sign up for baking lessons in Paris, so you’ll go home with the secrets to recreating those French breads and pastries right in your own kitchen.
Discover the gateway to medieval Paris
The Ile de la Cite is not just an island in the middle of the Seine river. It’s the epicenter and birthplace of Paris. To get there and soak in all the medieval architecture and history (which includes a visit to Notre Dame) you’ll cross the oldest bridge in Paris, the Pont Neuf.
Embrace your artistic side at Montamartre
This onetime enclave for very famous artists is well worth a wander, with its cobbled streets, impressively picturesque homes and village-style shops. By night, Montamartre still clings to its longtime reputation for being a good-time destination with the likes of the world-famous Moulin Rouge brightening up those long, winter nights.
Rekindle your romance at this ode to love
How many ways can you say, “I love you?” By one count, there are exactly 311. For a most memorable rendezvous, bring your person to the “I love you wall” in Montmartre, a public art display nestled in a charming neighborhood. You’ll both be inspired by how a pair of artists beautifully documented “I love you” in every known language on brilliant blue lava tiles.
Bask in autumn beauty at Luxembourg Gardens
Before you write off a visit to a botanic garden in the autumn, think again. The Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect place to for a fall stroll: Colorful leaves, fresh flowers and fountains galore, you’ll adore your afternoon of basking in gorgeous weather, a cup of something hot from the café and a good novel.
Enjoy a royal escape at a grand chateau
If you need a break from the bustle of Paris, relax like a French king with a day trip to a country chateau in the heart of the Loire Valley. Chateau du Chambord was built by Louis I as a hunting lodge. Not to worry, you shouldn’t find it overly humble, not with its 426 rooms, 83 staircases and 282 fireplaces. You can also opt for Chateau de Chenonceau, which features guided tours of the building and the ultimate in wine tasting from bottles cultivated from its vineyards.
Soak in the old world charm of rural Provence
Famed for its fields of lavender and glasses of rose, the Provence region also holds plenty of opportunities for fall and winter visitors to experience old world traditions. For example, few people realize that winter is black truffle season in the south of France. If you’re a foodie, be sure and time your visit with one of its many markets and festivals that celebrate this “buried treasure” and their many delicious uses.
Get a taste of French honey at an ancient monastery
During your sojourn in Provence, be sure and make time for a day trip to Senanque Monastery, a charming 12th century monastery, which is still inhabited by monks who cultivate honey and lavender. After touring its picturesque halls and grounds, stop in the nearby village of Gourdes for supper and a taste of the good life in rural France.
Get glamorous at the French Riviera
If visiting a European beach town in the non-summer months sounds like a far-fetched plan, you need to get familiar with the French Riviera. In Victorian times, this coastal area served as the premiere winter escape for aristocratic Brits, and later attracted the likes of Edith Wharton, Pablo Picasso and other important authors and writers. Cagnes sur mer is one of its many glamorous towns, featuring its famed pebble beaches, winter horse races at the hippodrome, and splendid views from atop the grand Chateau-musee Grimaldi.
Discover a colorful seaside world in Menton
If you’re looking for a downshift, the last town along the French Rivera near the Italian border is the perfect place. Book a room with a view of the sea and spend those sunny days exploring graceful mansions, fine dining and celebrating the lemon harvest, which takes place each February. Founded by pirates and later a winter refuge for an English queen, Menton’s past is as colorful and interesting as the colorful collection of narrow houses perched over the sea.
Don’t forget the possibilities of bundling
When you plan your French escape, look for the best rates for hotels, and try bundling on a site like Expedia. Buying your flight and hotel at the same time can save you, on average, up to $600. To transform that trip to France from dream to reality, find your flight and hotel at Expedia.com.