We were recently back in Paris for the rugby international. Sadly, the match proved a heavy defeat for Ireland, but on the positive side it was a welcome return to the City of Light.
Having briefly passed through Paris in 2022 and during the 2016 soccer championships, it was great to properly revisit one of Europe’s greatest capitals.
From the restored Notre-Dame Cathedral to riverside walks along the Seine, lively markets and world-class museums, Paris remains ideal for a short spring break.
Getting There
We travelled with Dawson Travel in a package from Cork Airport to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, with coach transfer to our hotel in Montparnasse.
Paris is easy to reach from Ireland with direct flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Belfast through multiple airlines.
The city’s second airport, Paris Orly Airport, is often closer to the centre.
Useful booking resources:
First Impressions
Paris remains one of Europe’s most exciting and multicultural cities.
The restored Notre-Dame, busy boulevards, elegant bridges and packed cafés all create that unmistakable Paris atmosphere.
Even on a short stay, the city offers history, culture, food and endless places to walk and explore.
Where We Stayed – Montparnasse
We stayed in Pullman Paris Montparnasse.
Montparnasse may not be the Champs-Élysées or Latin Quarter, but in many ways it is better — more local, better value and full of authentic neighbourhood life.
Historically this district attracted many Bretons arriving from western France due to the nearby railway station.
Today it is diverse, lively and well connected, yet still feels safer and calmer than some larger city districts.
Things To Do
Edgar Quinet Market
One highlight was the excellent Edgar Quinet Market near the metro station of the same name.
This traditional market offers fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses and crafts. It is a feast for the eyes and ideal for bringing home quality French produce.
Notre-Dame & Latin Quarter
We visited the restored Notre-Dame Cathedral and nearby Shakespeare and Company, where there was still a queue to enter.
The nearby St Michel area is lively, full of restaurants, cafés and nightlife.
- Reservations: To cut down on waiting times, you are highly encouraged to book a free time slot via the official Notre-Dame de Paris Website. Tickets are released 24 to 48 hours in advance.
Luxembourg Gardens
The elegant Luxembourg Gardens remain one of the best places in Paris for a peaceful walk.
Seine Walks & Boat Tours
Walking beside the Seine is one of the great Paris pleasures.
We passed the historic riverside booksellers and the departure points for Bateaux Mouches cruises.
Boat tours from Pont Alma remain excellent value and give a fresh perspective on the city.
Museums & Culture
Musée d’Orsay
Our main cultural stop was Musée d’Orsay, still one of the best-value museums in Europe.
For around €16 (book ahead), visitors can enjoy one of the world’s greatest Impressionist collections.
Masterpieces by:
- Vincent van Gogh
- Claude Monet
- Édouard Manet
A must for any Paris visit.
Evening Jazz
Later we enjoyed live jazz in a historic wine cellar venue near Rue de Rivoli — a reminder that Paris remains one of Europe’s great music cities.
Food & Dining
Montparnasse offers superb dining options:
- Traditional French brasseries
- Breton crêperies
- Vietnamese restaurants
- Italian food
- Moroccan couscous venues
Classic café stops include:
Nearby streets like Rue de Vaugirard and Cherche-Midi also offer excellent choices.
Writers & Literary Paris
Montparnasse has long literary links.
Irish writer Samuel Beckett once lived in the area and reportedly frequented Le Falstaff, where Guinness is still available alongside French and Belgian beers.
For book lovers, visit:
Getting Around
Paris transport is now highly digital.
Use:
- IDF Mobilités app
- MyNavigo digital ticketing
- Metro operator RATP
Single journeys start around €2.55, with discounts for bundles.
The Metro remains one of Europe’s best urban transport systems.
Practical Tips
- Spring is one of the best times to visit
- Book museums online in advance
- Stay in Montparnasse for value and convenience
- Use Metro apps instead of paper tickets
- Walk as much as possible — Paris rewards walkers
Final Thoughts
Paris remains one of the world’s great short-break cities.
Whether you want art, food, markets, music, literature or iconic sights, the city still delivers in every season.
Even after many visits, Paris always gives you something new.
A marvellous few days in the City of Light.
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