A Weekend in Paris: Art, Rain, and Birthday Cake Under the Iron Lady

There is a saying that "Paris is always a good idea."

Honest confession? I used to think that was just a cliché people put on Instagram captions. But after spending 48 whirlwind hours in the City of Light for my birthday weekend, I finally get it. Even when it rains (and it did rain), and even when you are running late (which I definitely was), Paris has a way of remaining effortlessly aesthetic.

Whether you are a student on a budget or looking for a quick weekend getaway, here is how I spent a memorable two days in Paris.

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Day 1: The Art of the Walk (and The Rain)

Since I was only in Paris for the weekend, I made a strategic decision: Quantity over Queueing. Instead of spending hours in lines, we decided to explore the city as an open-air museum.

The Louvre & Tuileries Garden

We started at the Musée du Louvre. The queue was massive, so we skipped the interior (sorry, Mona Lisa!) and explored the exterior architecture instead. The glass pyramid contrasting with the historic palace walls is a masterpiece in itself.

Just beside it, we admired the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel before heading into the Tuileries Garden. If you enjoy walking, this is the perfect route. We passed the Grand Bassin Rond, admired the intricate sculptures, and paused at the Fontaine des Fleuves. It’s a straight, scenic shot that lands you right at the majestic Place de la Concorde.

The Petite & Grand Palais

Our very first destination was the Petit Palais. Don’t let the name fool you—there is nothing "small" about it. The golden gates and ceiling murals are breathtaking, and it feels much less crowded than the major museums. Across the street, we caught a glimpse of the Grand Palais, enjoying that classic Parisian symmetry.

Bridges and Hidden Gems

We crossed the Pont Alexandre III—arguably the most photogenic bridge in the city—and made our way to the Archives Nationales. This is a spot many tourists skip, but the interiors are stunning and well worth a visit if you love history.

When Paris Cries (The Rain)

By late afternoon, the weather took a turn. It started raining heavily.

Instead of fighting it, we grabbed lunch and retreated to our Airbnb to recharge. Sometimes, slowing down is the best part of travel. Once the rain cleared, we headed out for the evening highlight: The Eiffel Tower at night. Seeing it glitter against the dark sky never gets old. It’s one of those moments where you just stand there and think, "Okay, I’m really here."

Day 2: Aesthetic Mornings & Birthday Wishes

The Morning Sprint

We started the day slow, enjoying our beautiful, aesthetic Airbnb. Maybe a little too slow.

We had booked a slot for the Palais Garnier (Opera House), and suddenly realized we were running very late. We took a taxi, but I still ended up sprinting around the building trying to find the entrance. It was chaotic, funny, and tiring—but once we stepped inside? Pure magic. The Grand Foyer is dripping in gold and mirrors. It feels like stepping onto a movie set.

A Birthday by the Seine

After the drama of the morning, we slowed down. We grabbed lunch near the tower and went back to see the Iron Lady in the daylight.

Since it was my birthday (September 12th), I didn’t want a fancy restaurant. I wanted a vibe. We bought a simple cake from a local cafeteria, found a spot on the grass beside the Eiffel Tower, and just sat there.

Cutting a birthday cake while sitting by the Seine, watching the boats go by, was the perfect end to the trip. It wasn’t extravagant, but it was exactly what I wanted.

 My Travel Tips for Paris

• The Louvre Hack: If you are short on time, don't feel guilty about skipping the inside of the Louvre. The architecture outside is free and stunning.
• Book Ahead: Places like Palais Garnier require time slots. Learn from my mistake—arrive 15 minutes early so you aren't running in a panic!
• Embrace the Rain: Paris weather is unpredictable. Use the rainy hours to enjoy a long lunch or relax in your accommodation.
• Budget Celebration: You don't need a €100 dinner to celebrate. A cake, a park bench, and a view of the Eiffel Tower is a million-dollar experience.

Check out my Instagram for more photos:
👉🏻 https://www.instagram.com/adnan_auric

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Have you been to Paris? Let me know your favorite spot in the comments below!