How do you experience the Louvre Museum in a way that actually feels enjoyable, not stressful? And what makes this museum so much more than the Mona Lisa?
Elaine Sciolino is a veteran journalist and author, former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, and the writer of several books about Fra…How do you experience the Louvre Museum in a way that actually feels enjoyable, not stressful? And what makes this museum so much more than the Mona Lisa?
Elaine Sciolino is a veteran journalist and author, former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, and the writer of several books about France, including The Seine, The Only Street in Paris, and Adventures in the Louvre. She has lived in Paris for over two decades and brings history, culture, and personal insight into every story.
Elaine joins co-host Paige McClanahan to explore Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum, diving into the history, hidden artworks, and practical strategies for making the most of your visit.
You’ll hear why the Louvre is more than just a building with the Mona Lisa and how its role in French history makes it extraordinary. Elaine demystifies visiting the museum, from understanding crowds and lines to discovering lesser-known works like Titian’s Man With a Glove and what she calls the “undiscovered Mona Lisa.” She shares crowd-beating strategies, best days and times to visit, and surprising places within and around the Louvre where peace and beauty await. You’ll get insider stories on heists, hidden collections, and how even children can be captivated by Egyptology and Islamic art sections that most tourists miss out on.
When you visit a major museum like the Louvre, do you tend to focus on the most famous works, or do you prefer to explore what’s less obvious? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
Co-host Paige McClanahan is a writer, editor, and former journalist based in Paris, France. As the author of “The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel”, Paige is passionate about making sure our travels have a positive impact on the world. Learn more about her work here.
Tune In To Learn:
How the Mona Lisa came to dominate the Louvre’s identity, and why that fame is both a blessing and a burden
How the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa helped turn her into a worldwide obsession
The surprising historical roots of the Louvre as a royal palace and revolutionary museum
Lesser-known treasures, “undiscovered” masterpieces, and quieter sections of the Louvre worth seeking out
The unexpected history of France’s crown jewels, including how many were sold off and ended up in the United States
The story behind the recent crown jewels heist and what it reveals about museum security
How the right membership, 1:1 consultation rooms, and alternative museums can transform your experience of Parisian culture
Future plans for the Louvre’s expansion and what that could mean
And so much more
Resources:
Sign up for our FREE newsletter
Elaine’s website and books
Louvre Museum
Want More?
5 Unexpected Things to Do in Paris and 3 Hidden Gems in France with Paige McClanahan
How To Explore Paris Like a Local, Working on Hospital Ships, and Becoming an Expat on a Mystery Visa With Jay Swanson
9 Best United States Museums and Advice for Fostering Your Creativity with Bob Eckstein
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"One Day in Paris: How to See the Best of the City in 24 Hours"—ever wondered if you could really experience Paris in just one day? In this action-packed episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent sits down with Rick McGuirk, a seasoned Paris visitor who turned a quick layover into an unforget…"One Day in Paris: How to See the Best of the City in 24 Hours"—ever wondered if you could really experience Paris in just one day? In this action-packed episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent sits down with Rick McGuirk, a seasoned Paris visitor who turned a quick layover into an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're squeezing in a solo day, showing a first-timer the highlights, or just love efficient travel, this episode is your ultimate guide to maximizing every minute in the City of Light.
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Rick shares his real-time, fast-paced itinerary, starting with a sunset stroll through Luxembourg Gardens and Saint-Sulpice Church—a hidden gem with stunning art and history. The next morning, he kicks off at Trocadéro with a croissant, soaking in Eiffel Tower views before diving into a walking marathon that includes the Louvre Courtyard, Notre-Dame, and a riverside picnic at Square du Vert-Galant. No stuffy museums or endless lines here—just smart choices, like visiting the Musée de Rodin (no crowds!) and ending with Monet's Water Lilies at the Musée de l'Orangerie after dark. Annie adds her signature tips: where to skip the queues, how to navigate like a local, and why comfortable shoes are your best friend.
You'll hear how Rick logged 32,000 steps, dodged Paris traffic (Olympic prep chaos!), and still found time for ice cream at Berthillon, a Seine River cruise with wine, and a late-night crêpe. Spoiler: His secret weapon? A mix of walking, strategic Ubers, and knowing which attractions stay open late. Annie also reveals her favorite off-the-beaten-path spots, like the Courre de Commerce alleyway, and why the Batobus river taxi might just save your tired feet.
Perfect for travelers with tight schedules, this episode proves you don't need a week to fall in love with Paris—just a well-planned day, a charged phone, and a sense of adventure. Rick's story is packed with practical advice, from ordering food in French (even badly!) to avoiding taxi scams at the airport. Plus, Annie's magazine segment dishes on what French presidents actually eat—hint: it's not all foie gras!
Subscribe now to Join Us in France for more insider tips, hidden gems, and stories that make you feel like you're exploring France with a friend. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of Paris, this episode will inspire you to see more, stress less, and savor every moment. Hit follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen—and get ready to turn your next short trip into a memorable French escape! 🇫🇷✨
More episodes about visiting Paris for the first time
Table of Contents for this Episode
• [00:00:16] Introduction
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:20] Podcast supporters
• [00:02:00] The Magazine segment
• [00:03:13] Planning a Blitz Visit to Paris
• [00:04:05] Exploring Paris: Day One Highlights
• [00:05:47] Luxembourg Gardens and Saint-Sulpice
• [00:06:42] Not to miss when visiting Saint Sulpice in Paris
• [00:08:59] Evening Strolls and Iconic Sights
• [00:10:26] The Arc de Triomphe is open late unlike most other attractions in Paris
• [00:11:45] A Day Packed with Parisian Adventures
• [00:12:46] Navigating Paris: Tips and Tricks
• [00:17:35] Musee de Rodin
• [00:19:41] Museum de L'Orangerie
• [00:22:13] Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• [00:26:11] Navigating the Musée d'Orsay
• [00:26:53] Maximizing Your Layover in Paris
• [00:28:12] Taxi Tips and Tricks
• [00:29:43] Handling Cash in France
• [00:31:18] Comfort and Convenience Tips for Paris
• [00:32:51] Public Transportation and Safety
• [00:35:54] Tipping Etiquette in France
• [00:39:42] France is overall very safe for visitors
• [00:41:56] Final Tips for a Paris Visit
• [00:48:01] Reflecting on the Paris Experience
• [00:50:30] Thank You Patrons
• [00:52:50] What do the French Presidents eat?
• [00:55:26] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:56:16] Copyrightmore
You’ve done Paris once. Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Luxembourg Gardens—check. Now what? In this episode, we sit down in a café in the 11th arrondissement with Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower, to plan a “second visit” to Paris that steps off the tourist track: covered passages, neighborhood cafés,…You’ve done Paris once. Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Luxembourg Gardens—check. Now what? In this episode, we sit down in a café in the 11th arrondissement with Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower, to plan a “second visit” to Paris that steps off the tourist track: covered passages, neighborhood cafés, budget-friendly bouillons, cabarets that are actually fun, where to stay, and how to arrive without wrecking your first impression.
Guest
Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower and founder of Earful walking tours in Paris.
What you’ll learn
• Why your second trip is when Paris really clicks
• Which neighborhoods reward wandering (11th, 19th, 20th)
• The covered passages worth seeking out and why they’re special
• Lunch spots and coffee bars locals actually use
• Bouillons: beautiful rooms, classic fare, tiny bills—what to expect
• Solo-friendly nights out (including cabaret)
• Smart lodging and airport choices that save time and sanity
Places, eats, and experiences mentioned
• Covered passages:Galerie Vivienne;Passage Jouffroy(home toHôtel Chopin)
• Cafés & lunch favorites:Café Méricourt;Holybelly
• Vintage shopping:Kilo Shop(pay-by-weight, multiple locations)
• Budget dinner, big atmosphere:Bouillon Chartier;Bouillon Pigalle
• Night out:Moulin Rougeand other cabarets around Pigalle/Montmartre
• Where to stay: Aim central (arrondissements 1–11) to cut transit time
• Getting into town: Consider a taxi from CDG/ORY for a smooth first impression; if you have a choice, many preferOrlyfor speed and simplicity
Oliver’s walking tours
Earful Tower tours focus on discovery over dates and statues—courtyards, stories, and hidden details. Oliver personally leads a Monday-morning Marais tour most weeks.
The Earful Tower (podcast): https://theearfultower.com/the-podcast/
Host’s field notes (post-interview)
• The covered passages are as atmospheric as promised. Highlights:Galerie Vivienne;Passage JouffroywithHôtel Chopintucked inside.
• Kilo Shopis a fun, budget-friendly vintage stop—great with teens.
• Bouillon Pigalle(more modern) andBouillon Chartier(old-school classic) both deliver on vibe and value. Go off-peak to avoid lines.
Links
• Earful Tower Walking Tours:https://theearfultower.com/the-earful-tower-walking-tours/
• The Earful Tower(podcast):https://theearfultower.com/the-podcast/
• Galerie Vivienne:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/EWLWk69bPK
• Passage Jouffroy:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vPe_qlc-k_
• Hôtel Chopin:https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/kAi6jwzSwO
• Bouillon Chartier:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/ChjgrLpu65
• Bouillon Pigalle:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/R0lquYf-FC
• Café Méricourt:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/CxHC_wg8VQ
• Holybelly:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/r8REHD-T4M
• Kilo Shop:https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/pCUKWUrJif
• Moulin Rouge:https://getyourguide.stay22.com/voyascape/yJ9bYglmxu
Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.
Mentioned in this episode:
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This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
A Paris-based journalist lets us in on what happens behind closed doors at the city's grandest museum when it shuts to the public each Tuesday. And the last apprentice to be trained in the medieval techniques of masonry in Tuscany reveals how ancient secrets help to turn stone into masterpieces of a…A Paris-based journalist lets us in on what happens behind closed doors at the city's grandest museum when it shuts to the public each Tuesday. And the last apprentice to be trained in the medieval techniques of masonry in Tuscany reveals how ancient secrets help to turn stone into masterpieces of art and architecture.more
For more details on all the stops mentioned, bookmark out guidebook article: Paris, France: the City of Lights
Tours Mentioned:
• Versailles Palace Tour
• Paris in a Day
• Louvre Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
• Eiffel Tower Tour with Champagne and Seine River Cruise
• Notre Dame and Île de la Cité Wal…For more details on all the stops mentioned, bookmark out guidebook article: Paris, France: the City of Lights
Tours Mentioned:
• Versailles Palace Tour
• Paris in a Day
• Louvre Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
• Eiffel Tower Tour with Champagne and Seine River Cruise
• Notre Dame and Île de la Cité Walking Tour
• Musée d’Orsay Tours
• Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Food Tour
• Seine River Cruise (day or sunset options)
Sean and Brandon break down what to actually see in Paris and how to make the most of it. They talk about the city’s major sites, from Versailles and the Louvre to Montmartre and the Seine, explaining what’s worth booking ahead, when to visit, and what details most travelers miss. The episode mixes history and on-the-ground advice, with stories about Napoleon, Marie Antoinette, and the small quirks that make Paris unlike anywhere else.
Topics Covered:
• Paris myths and stereotypes• The truth about French manners and prices• Why Notre Dame, not the Eiffel Tower, is the real center of Paris• How to see Versailles without waiting in line• Best time of year to visit the gardens and Hall of Mirrors• The Louvre’s must-see artworks and skip-the-line tips• Eiffel Tower ticket advice and the best viewpoint for photos• Visiting Notre Dame and Île de la Cité after the restoration• Sainte-Chapelle and its stained glass at the right hour of sunlight• Highlights of the Musée d’Orsay and the Impressionists• Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, and where to find the best sunset• The Latin Quarter, Pantheon, and the history buried below• Napoleon’s tomb at Les Invalides and France’s military legacy• The Seine River cruise and how to see Paris from the water• Bonus picks for art lovers, from Rodin to Monet’s water lilies
French People ARR. Rude is produced by The Tour Guy, Europe’s top marketplace for tours and experiences in all of Europe’s major cities.more
This week on The Earful Tower podcast it's Jake and Holly Barker, two American tourists who were actually inside the Louvre's Apollo Gallery when it was broken into on Sunday.
I met them in the Marais to record their dramatic story.
"When we heard the saws, we both knew that something seriou…This week on The Earful Tower podcast it's Jake and Holly Barker, two American tourists who were actually inside the Louvre's Apollo Gallery when it was broken into on Sunday.
I met them in the Marais to record their dramatic story.
"When we heard the saws, we both knew that something serious had happened."
It's reported that nine items from the crown jewel collection were taken from the Louvre.
Also featured in this episode was Amber Minogue, our Louvre tour guide. Please get in touch to book a tour with her.
The music in this episode was from Pres Maxson, rather fittingly his take on Elton John's "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters".
***********
The Earful Tower exists thanks to support from its members. For the past 92 months and counting it has cost just $10 a month to unlock almost endless extras including bonus podcast episodes, live video replays, special event invites, and our annually updated PDF guide to Paris.
Membership takes only a minute to set up on Patreon, or Substack. Thank you for keeping this channel independent.
For more from the Earful Tower, here are some handy links:
Hidden Fortresses, Stolen Masterpieces, and Ghostly Legends
Before it became the world’s most visited museum, the Louvre was a fortress, a palace, and if legends are true, home to a murderous ghost in red!
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
Tours mentioned in the podcast:
👉 The BE…Hidden Fortresses, Stolen Masterpieces, and Ghostly Legends
Before it became the world’s most visited museum, the Louvre was a fortress, a palace, and if legends are true, home to a murderous ghost in red!
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
Tours mentioned in the podcast:
👉 The BEST Louvre Tours👉 Versailles Tours without the hassle👉 Paris in a Day Tour
So what are the secrets of the Louvre that most visitors miss?
In this episode, Sean and Brandon uncover the unbelievable true stories behind the world’s most famous museum—from the medieval fortress buried in its basement to the daring curator who smuggled 4,000 paintings out of Nazi-occupied Paris. You’ll learn how Napoleon crowned himself emperor in front of a captive pope, why the pyramid sparked satanic rumors, and how Catherine de’ Medici’s hitman might still haunt the Tuileries Gardens.
This is the episode where Uncle Bob walks away knowing:
• The Louvre opened in 1793—during the Reign of Terror
• Thousands of artworks were hidden before the Nazis arrived
• The glass pyramid has 673, not 666, panes of glass
• Catherine de’ Medici’s ghostly “Red Man” still stalks the gardens
• The Mona Lisa only became famous after being stolen
Produced by The Tour Guy, Europe's leading tour experience marketplace.more
Family Travel to France: Paris, Provence, and a Trip of a Lifetime
Thinking about family travel to France? In this episode, host Annie Sargent talks with Lori Belinski about planning — and enjoying — a dream trip for six people, from grandparents to kids.
Listen to this episode ad-free
They share…Family Travel to France: Paris, Provence, and a Trip of a Lifetime
Thinking about family travel to France? In this episode, host Annie Sargent talks with Lori Belinski about planning — and enjoying — a dream trip for six people, from grandparents to kids.
Listen to this episode ad-free
They share the highlights of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and hidden gems you might miss. Then they head south to Provence for lavender fields, hilltop villages, and unforgettable markets. Along the way, Lori reveals how they balanced everyone's interests, managed transportation, and found great places to stay.
You'll hear tips on traveling with a multi-generational group, making the most of your time in France, and avoiding common travel pitfalls. Whether you're dreaming of Paris cafés or Provencal sunsets, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration.
Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast so you don't miss future episodes full of travel stories, tips, and cultural insights.
Table of Contents for this Episode
• [00:00:00] Introduction
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:01] Podcast supporters
• [00:02:18] Annie, Lori and James
• [00:02:45] Family Trip Overview
• [00:03:03] Olympic Adventures
• [00:06:20] Exploring the South of France
• [00:06:32] Fly Fishing Excursion
• [00:08:53] Driving in France
• [00:10:46] Driving in France is Easy
• [00:12:36] Lavender Fields and Local Guides
• [00:16:12] Monaco Aquarium Visit
• [00:17:44] Accommodation Experiences
• [00:20:39] Health Snags
• [00:21:49] Boat Tour in Nice
• [00:22:53] Exploring the Wooden Playground
• [00:23:41] Monaco: The Drink of the Trip
• [00:24:30] Dog Sled Adventure in Fontainebleau
• [00:28:42] Journey to Normandy
• [00:33:28] Navigating Paris with a Group
• [00:33:40] Trip of a Lifetime on a Budget
• [00:40:18] Marker
• [00:42:02] Travel Tips and Reflections
• [00:42:38] AIRALO, virtual SIM APP
• [00:43:54] The Podcast and VoiceMap Tours Are a Great Jumping Off Point
• [00:46:40] Thank you Patrons
• [00:47:10] Carl's Review
• [00:48:49] La Rentrée and Forum des Associations
• [00:51:24] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:51:48] Copyright More episodes about family travel in France
Author Elaine Sciolino gives us the history behind the famous women — both artists and subjects — to visit in Paris' grand repository. Then a Romani author shares what it was like growing up in her culture as we trace the lineage and influence of the vibrant Romani people. And the well-traveled Paul…Author Elaine Sciolino gives us the history behind the famous women — both artists and subjects — to visit in Paris' grand repository. Then a Romani author shares what it was like growing up in her culture as we trace the lineage and influence of the vibrant Romani people. And the well-traveled Paul Theroux provides aspiring expats a realistic assessment of what it means to leave the US in the rearview mirror.more
In this Just The Tip episode, we’re sharing how to make the most of a super quick 8-hour stop in Paris. Kim and Zeina met up in the City of Light and see as much as possible before catching a train to Nice
In this Paris episode we cover:
• Climbing to the top of Sacré-Cœur for panoramic city views…In this Just The Tip episode, we’re sharing how to make the most of a super quick 8-hour stop in Paris. Kim and Zeina met up in the City of Light and see as much as possible before catching a train to Nice
In this Paris episode we cover:
• Climbing to the top of Sacré-Cœur for panoramic city views
• Wandering Jardin du Luxembourg for history, fountains, and peaceful vibes
• Taking in iconic views from the Montparnasse Tower rooftop
• The best spot for Eiffel Tower photos (without the crowds)
• Lunching like locals at Le George V
• Train station tips for navigating chaos and saving money with Rail Europe
Paris hotels we recommend (if you have more than 8 hours):
• Relais Bosquet by Malone - Classic Parisian hotel near the Eiffel Tower
• Pullman Paris La Défense - Modern room close to the La Defense Arena
• Timhotel Le Louvre - Reliable stay super close to The Louvre
Check out our curated list of things do in Paris on our Viator Shop for all the tours and activities we recommend doing when you have more time here.
Find a great flight deal to Paris by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and watching the daily flight deals (points & cash) that are emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TS10 to get $10 off your first year subscription.
—---------------------------------------
Shop: Trip Itineraries & Amazon Storefront
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.more
This week on the podcast, it's The Earful's two interns Thomas Farnham and Genevieve Victoria Gorain. And it's time to hear how they went with their bucket lists after their two-month internship is over.
Here's the post with all ten ideas they mentioned in the episode.
Also mentioned in this epi…This week on the podcast, it's The Earful's two interns Thomas Farnham and Genevieve Victoria Gorain. And it's time to hear how they went with their bucket lists after their two-month internship is over.
Here's the post with all ten ideas they mentioned in the episode.
Also mentioned in this episode:
• The Earful Everywhere podcast (currently in Italy): https://theearfultower.substack.com/p/its-here-the-official-launch-of-the
• Our walking tours of Paris: http://www.theearfultower.com/tours Music by Pres Maxson.
***********
The Earful Tower exists thanks to support from its members. From $10 a month you can unlock almost endless extras including bonus podcast episodes, live video replays, special event invites, and our annually updated PDF guide to Paris.
Membership takes only a minute to set up on Patreon, or Substack. Thank you for keeping this channel independent.
For more from the Earful Tower, here are some handy links:
Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions — Have you ever wondered what it's like to visit France in the winter? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent chats with Kim Cox, a listener from Minnesota, about her December adventures …Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions — Have you ever wondered what it's like to visit France in the winter? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent chats with Kim Cox, a listener from Minnesota, about her December adventures in Paris and Strasbourg.
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They talk about how to enjoy Paris museums like the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie when the weather is chilly and the days are short. Kim shares what you can currently see at Notre-Dame de Paris, including the ongoing restoration and the excellent archaeological crypt right in front of the cathedral.
Then it's on to Strasbourg, where Kim timed her visit perfectly to enjoy the Strasbourg Christmas markets, known as some of the best in Europe. She offers tips for navigating the festive crowds, finding the best vin chaud, and learning about Alsatian culture at the local museum.
If you're curious about winter travel in France, exploring Paris and Strasbourg in December might be just what you're looking for. It's a great time for museum visits, festive lights, and warm comfort food.
Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly episodes about French destinations, history, culture, and practical travel tips.
Table of Contents for this Episode
• [00:00:16] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:57] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:30] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:18] Notre Dame Museums and Winter Magic with Kim Cox
• [00:02:45] Notre Dame Reopening Experience
• [00:10:27] Exploring Strasbourg's Christmas Markets
• [00:14:46] Living Like a Local in Paris
• [00:16:33] Picard, Frozen Foods
• [00:20:35] Cafe Culture in Winter
• [00:22:25] Museums and Historical Insights
• [00:25:20] VoiceMap Guided Walk in Strasbourg
• [00:26:48] Visiting the Carnavalet Museum
• [00:29:10] Dining and Reservations in Paris
• [00:32:20] Experiencing the Pantheon
• [00:34:44] Christmas Festivities in Paris
• [00:35:48] Late Night at the Louvre
• [00:38:19] Winter Travel Tips for Paris
• [00:41:38] Final Thoughts and Future Plans
• [00:43:33] Thank you Patrons
• [00:44:42] VoiceMap Reviews
• [00:46:42] Solar Energy Project in Paris
• [00:48:33] 6 Weeks away from the desk
• [00:52:15] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:52:59] Copyright More Episodes About Paris and Strasbourgmore
Paris Uncovered: Stolen Overcoats, Milk, Window Shopping, Medieval Tinder
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Paris tours
Planning your first trip to Paris? This episode is your ultimate guide to doing it right. We’ll help you navigate the City of Light like a pro—from …Paris Uncovered: Stolen Overcoats, Milk, Window Shopping, Medieval Tinder
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Paris tours
Planning your first trip to Paris? This episode is your ultimate guide to doing it right. We’ll help you navigate the City of Light like a pro—from choosing the best neighborhoods to stay in and understanding how the Metro works, to avoiding tourist traps and ordering the right thing at a French bistro.
You'll hear our brutally honest takes on what’s worth it (Versailles, yes), what’s overrated (maybe the Champs-Élysées), and the travel mistakes most people make when visiting Paris for the first time.
Expect practical tips, funny travel stories, and a fully detailed Paris itinerary packed with local food recommendations, must-see sights like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, and neighborhood guides to spots like Saint-Germain, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter.
Whether you’re dreaming of café culture, museum-hopping, or sipping champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower, this Paris travel podcast will help you make the most of every moment.
✨ Stuff We Talk About:
• What’s actually worth your time (and what’s totally skippable) in Paris
• The truth about Parisians—rude or just misunderstood?
• How to speak just enough French to impress (without embarrassing yourself)
• Why breakfast at your hotel is a rookie mistake
• Real-deal Paris tips from locals, expats, and professional tour guides
🎙️ As Mentioned in the Podcast
• 🎟️ Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa
• 🎟️ Palace of Versailles and Gardens Tour from Paris
• 🎟️ Paris in a Day Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral
📺 Watch Our YouTube Guides:
How to Spend 24 Hours in Paris
Top Places to Stay in Parismore
For this season finale, we're on a private boat on the Seine River with Marie and Bertrand from My Private Paris.
They explain how best to plan a visit to the big five, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Musee d'Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and the Seine.
My Private Paris is a local deluxe agency, crafting …For this season finale, we're on a private boat on the Seine River with Marie and Bertrand from My Private Paris.
They explain how best to plan a visit to the big five, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Musee d'Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and the Seine.
My Private Paris is a local deluxe agency, crafting itineraries for tours in Paris and beyond. See what they offer here. They've been the sponsor for this podcast all season!
Enjoying what we're doing here at The Earful Tower and keen to see more? Become a Patreon member here to support it and to discover our exciting extras.
Today's episode is all about our trip to Paris for my daughter's 5th birthday! We spent 2 days in Disneyland Paris (see previous episode), and 3 days in Paris.
I'll share where we stayed, what we did, and what I though was worthwhile to do with kids!
Links:
Zoe Stroller:
https://glnk.io/zlzjm/a…Today's episode is all about our trip to Paris for my daughter's 5th birthday! We spent 2 days in Disneyland Paris (see previous episode), and 3 days in Paris.
I'll share where we stayed, what we did, and what I though was worthwhile to do with kids!
Links:
Zoe Stroller:
https://glnk.io/zlzjm/amomexplores
Hotels:
Hotel Londres Eiffel: https://www.hotel-paris-londres-eiffel.com/en/
Best Stay Jeuneurs
There are affordable apartment-style options for larger families, and it looks to be in a great location (about a 20-minute walk from the Louvre).
Crowne Plaza Paris Republique
Truth be told, I almost booked this hotel. I'm a big fan of IHG and have stayed in IHG hotels in Belgium and Scotland. Both were wonderful experiences. They have rooms that fit families of 5 or 6, and breakfast options, too. I really liked the location, but it was just slightly more expensive than the hotel we booked.
Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs Elysees
This was another option on my short list of places to book. We were looking at a 1-bedroom option for our trip, but I found that there are 2-bedroom options as well. This is also a little more on the expensive side, but the location cannot be beaten
A tour guide from Greece delves into the importance of food, family, and traditions in his homeland. Then a Francophile offers advice on how to take on the vast collection of the world's largest — and arguably greatest — museum. And guidebook researcher Cameron Hewitt shares discoveries from his tra…A tour guide from Greece delves into the importance of food, family, and traditions in his homeland. Then a Francophile offers advice on how to take on the vast collection of the world's largest — and arguably greatest — museum. And guidebook researcher Cameron Hewitt shares discoveries from his travels in the Balkans, an affordable and rewarding alternative to the tourist crowds of western Europe.more
Let's visit the Louvre with author Elaine Sciolino. Today, we chat about her upcoming book Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World's Greatest Museum. The book pulls back the curtain on a building many think they know, but which still contains endless secrets and untold stories.
…Let's visit the Louvre with author Elaine Sciolino. Today, we chat about her upcoming book Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World's Greatest Museum. The book pulls back the curtain on a building many think they know, but which still contains endless secrets and untold stories.
And if you think you recognise Elaine's name and voice, perhaps you heard her on the pod before! Elaine, the former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, has featured The Earful Tower in the past discussing her books about the Seine River and the Rue des Martyrs. In fact, she was the second-ever guest on the show, back in 2017.
Elaine used her extensive experience as a reporter to influence how she wrote this book. She decided the best approach was to explain the Louvre museum "through the prism of someone who's not an art historian and who's not a tour guide. I decided to just report the Louvre and talk to everybody that I possibly could."
And, my goodness, the surprises Elaine uncovered will knock your socks off: spending the day with the museum's permanent on-site fire fighters, a secret World War Two bunker and long-forgotten graffiti inscribed by the builders of the Philippe Auguste wall.
For Louvre novices who are in danger of having an exhausting and frustrating experience trying to see and do everything, Elaine offers this advice "Find your Louvre identity, find what kind of a visitor you are… And once you decide that it makes it a lot easier, because you forgive yourself for not being perfect…You go each time with a different identity, like you go each time and discover a different work of art."
Elaine confesses that she wasn't always the biggest fan of the museum, "the Louvre is a challenge, it's too big…it's too crowded, it's an impossible museum. You have to find your way in. So that's what I tried to do." Having visited the building hundreds of times in the course of writing the book, I wondered if Elaine was all Louvre-d out or did she intend to go back? "Oh no, I have to go back. I have to keep going back."
Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World's Greatest Museum is released on 1 April 2025. You can pre-order it here.
A fun extra the end of the episode, Bertrand d'Aleman from My Private Paris tells us about a current exhibition at the museum: The Louvre Couture. This is an exploration of how the vast breadth of decorative art contained within the walls of the museum has informed the world of high fashion. The Louvre Couture exhibition runs from 24 January - 21 July. Book your tickets here.
Artwork mentioned in this episode: Mona Lisa (also known as La Joconde) by Leonardo da Vinci; Man with a glove by Titian, Portrait of a Man (also known as La Condottiere) by Antonello da Messina; The death of Marat by Jacques-Louis David. Thanks to Hannah Coyle for additional reporting.
Enjoying what we're doing here at The Earful Tower and keen to see more? Become a Patreon member here to support it and to discover our exciting extras.
This season of The Earful Tower is brought to you by My Private Paris, an award-winning travel company creating deluxe itineraries for Paris and beyond. See what they offer here and be sure to let them know that you came from The Earful Tower.
This week on the podcast we are chatting about gin with Charlotte Buisson Dackow from La Distillerie de l'Arbre Sec.
This cool, new micro-distillery is located on a quiet street, with a macabre history, mere steps from the Louvre museum in the 1st arrondissement. We visited their stunning workshop …This week on the podcast we are chatting about gin with Charlotte Buisson Dackow from La Distillerie de l'Arbre Sec.
This cool, new micro-distillery is located on a quiet street, with a macabre history, mere steps from the Louvre museum in the 1st arrondissement. We visited their stunning workshop and listened as Charlotte explained the evolution of the gin culture in France.
Offering excellent quality gin, as well as tastings and workshops, it's clear that Charlotte and her colleagues take gin seriously. Of course, wine is the dominant beverage here, but, as Charlotte explains, things are changing.
"I think gin is taking over the world! Often French people are set in their ways, so we are a little behind everywhere else, but it's starting here in France. I think it's really exciting."
This craft-distillery is such an exciting addition to the Paris mixology scene, comfortably co-existing alongside the more traditional emblems. As Charlotte says "wine will always be there, but we're just making the drink culture richer." We couldn't agree more.
La Distillerie de l'Arbre Sec address: 52 Rue de l'Arbre Sec, 75001
This season of The Earful Tower is brought to you by the award-winning travel company My Private Paris, which specializes in tours in Paris, day trips outside Paris, and travel itineraries. See what they offer here. In this episode, the company's co-founder Marie Segura talks about the Passage des Panoramas.
Get more from The Earful Tower by becoming a Patreon member, or a Substack member, or exploring the official site here. Members already have their invite to our Christmas party at the distillery here.more
Get ideas for visiting some of Paris' unique, under-appreciated small museums, as well as tips for tackling its massive grande dame, the Louvre — and an author's insights into the former palace's remarkable history. And French tour guides tell us what they love best about the cities along the Medite…Get ideas for visiting some of Paris' unique, under-appreciated small museums, as well as tips for tackling its massive grande dame, the Louvre — and an author's insights into the former palace's remarkable history. And French tour guides tell us what they love best about the cities along the Mediterranean's sparkling Cote d'Azur.more
Ever wondered what it's like to explore Paris for the first time? Join us in this episode of Join Us in France as Annie Sargent chats with first-time visitor Kami Turner about her unforgettable trip to the City of Light and Lyon.
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Kami and her husband embarked on their adve…Ever wondered what it's like to explore Paris for the first time? Join us in this episode of Join Us in France as Annie Sargent chats with first-time visitor Kami Turner about her unforgettable trip to the City of Light and Lyon.
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Kami and her husband embarked on their adventure in October 2023, balancing iconic sights with spontaneous discoveries. Hear about their stay at Hotel Royal Saint Germain, their visit to the Louvre, and why they chose the Arc de Triomphe over the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views. Kami shares candid reflections on navigating Paris, including their missed trip to Versailles, delicious encounters with local bakeries, and the warm reception they received despite the language barrier.
With practical travel tips and heartfelt stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone planning their first visit to Paris or simply looking to relive the magic of discovering this enchanting city. Tune in for insights, advice, and a touch of wanderlust.
Table of Contents for this Episode
• Today on the podcast
• Podcast supporters
• The Magazine segment
• Kami and Annie
• Planning for a trip in Paris
• Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tour
• Goin Up the Arc de Triomphe
• The Princess Diana Memorial
• Locks on the Gate near Eiffel Tower
• La Terrasse Restaurant in the 7e arrondissement
• Beau and Me, The Bakery
• French politeness
• Why France for First Europe Trip?
• Jet lag, missing the Versailles booking
• Advice for the Jetlagged: Power through on the first day!
• From the Airport into Paris
• In Lyon
• Taking the train in France
• Renting a car in France
• Driving in France
• Manor Stay in Tarare
• General Advice When Visiting France
• Will There Be Another Visit to France?
• Thank you, Patrons
• Itinerary Consultations with Annie
• Self-Guided GPS tours on the VoiceMap app
• Reviews for the Ile de la Cité Tour
• Food Tour review
• Snap Election Time
• Copyright More episodes about visiting Paris for the first timemore
