One Day in Paris: How to See the Best of the City in 24 Hours, Episode 583

"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] Copyright