Day 3: Literary landmarks, iconic views and metro adventures

My final day in Paris began with a visit to the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, France’s national library. The modern Francois-Mitterrand site, with its four tower-like structures resembling open books, is an architecture marvel. While I couldn’t enter the reading rooms as a non-member, I was able to view the impressive interior from the entrance.

Next, it was time for the quintessential experience for every tourist that visit Paris - the Eiffel Tower. But first, I sought out the perfect photo op. Based on social media recommendations, I headed to Rue de l’Universite. To get there, take Metro Line 8 to Ecole Militaire station, then walk west on Rue de l’Universite. About halfway between Champ de Mars and Avenue de la Bourdannais, you’ll find the iconic view of the Eiffel Tower framed by Haussmannian buildings. However, do get there early because I reached at noon and it was packed with people.

I then took the scenic route via Metro Line 6. This line runs partially above ground, and the stretch between Bir-Hakeim and Passy stations offers a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower as the train crosses the Seine on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Face the right side if you are heading towards Charles de Gaulle Etoile; left side if you are heading towards Nation

​Inspired by the metro journey, I embarked on a tour of Paris’ most beautiful metro stations - Arts et Metiers, Concorde and Abbessess. Arts et Metiers is a steampunk dream, designed to resemble a submarine in homage to Jules Verne. Concorde features a tiled word puzzle of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Abbessess, one of the deepest stations in Paris, is known for its Art Nouveau entrance and spiral staircase adorned with murals.

As my Parisian adventure comes to an end, I headed back to the hostel to prepare for my early flight to Porto. I’m taking Ryanair from Paris Beauvais Airport in the wee hours of the morning, and it’s very far from the city centre. To get there, I took a shuttle bus from Porte Maillot (Metro Line 1). These buses are timed to coincide with flight departures and take about 75 minutes, and cost €16.90.

As I boarded the shuttle, I couldn’t help but reflect on my whirlwind three days in Paris. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the City of Light had truly lived up to its reputation. Au Revoir Paris - until we meet again!