Adventures with Shelby

Less than an hour train ride from Paris, Versailles is an easy pick for an iconic day trip. The former royal residence offers stunning architecture, expansive gardens, and a fascinating glimpse into French history. I first visited Versailles as part of my summer study abroad program in Paris, but I’ve since returned on my own and even brought my family during their visit. While organized tours can be convenient, I found that visiting independently is surprisingly easy thanks to the direct train connection from Paris.  In this guide, I’ll cover how to get there, what to see, and tips to help you make the most of your day. This post…

Île de la Cité sits right in the middle of the Seine and is often called the historic heart of Paris. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city and home to some of its most iconic landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the stunning Sainte-Chapelle. This was one of the top highlights I shared in my recent post about visiting Paris for first-timers.  This guide follows a simple walking route through Île de la Cité, highlighting the key sights and the best way to experience them in just a few hours. It’s an easy addition to any Paris itinerary, especially if you’re already exploring the nearby Latin Quarter. This…

In my recent post on the top highlights of Paris for first-time visitors, I included the Latin Quarter as a must-see neighborhood. It’s my favorite part of the city, and one of the best places in Paris to simply wander. I’m a little biased since this is where I lived during my first study abroad in Paris, but the Latin Quarter perfectly blends historic landmarks, cozy cafés, bookshops, and lively streets that feel made for exploring on foot. This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. In this walking guide, we’ll explore the 5th and 6th arrondissements and follow a route through…

In my previous post, I shared some of the most iconic Paris museums for first-time visitors. However, Paris has so many amazing museums! If you’re looking for a quieter museum or have more time to explore the city, these are my favorite off-the-beaten-path museums. This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. If you’re planning a trip, check out my hotel recommendations for best neighborhoods to stay in the City of Light! Musée Marmottan Monet Closest Metro: La Muette (Line 9) If you’ve read my other posts, it’s pretty obvious that I’m a big Claude Monet fan! I had not heard of this museum…

If you’re planning your first trip to Paris, you’ve likely already heard about the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the charming streets of Montmartre. In my previous post about the top Paris highlights you can’t miss, I shared some of the city’s most essential sights and neighborhoods for first-time visitors. But no visit to Paris would be complete without experiencing its incredible museums. Home to world-famous masterpieces and stunning historic buildings, Paris offers some of the best museum experiences in the world. This guide focuses on the essential museums every first-time visitor should consider, including the legendary Louvre Museum, the Impressionist treasures of Musée d’Orsay, the peaceful…