A Paris Adventure: From Offenburg to the Eiffel Tower and Beyond

Paris, the City of Lights, is a dream destination for many, and this past September, we had the chance to experience its magic firsthand. From buttery croissants to the twinkling Eiffel Tower lights, every moment was filled with beauty, culture, and a few surprises. Here’s how our journey unfolded, complete with train rides through the French countryside, stunning views, and a touch of adventure.

Day 1: From Dulles to Offenburg via Strasbourg

Our trip began with a red-eye flight from Washington Dulles to Paris, with a brief layover in Reykjavik. We flew with Play Airlines, a relatively new low-cost carrier that offers direct flights to Europe with a focus on affordability. Play Airlines operates with smaller, more streamlined services but still provides a comfortable experience for travelers looking to get to Europe without breaking the bank.

Upon landing, we grabbed some much-needed coffee and croissants and headed straight to Terminal 2 for the train ride to Offenburg, Germany. But first, we couldn’t resist indulging in some Parisian delights—macaroons, croissants, and a latte. The croissant? Buttery perfection!

Our train journey from Paris to Offenburg, via Strasbourg, was equally memorable. We splurged for the premium cabin with extra legroom, Wi-Fi, and semi-reclining seats. The 3-hour journey took us through the idyllic French countryside. Rolling hills of green and gold, dotted with farm animals, wind turbines, and charming villages, created the perfect scenic backdrop. Once in Strasbourg, we transferred to a quick 30-minute train ride through beautiful cornfields and rivers, landing in the quaint town of Offenburg.

That evening, we celebrated with friends and “family,” enjoying German schnapps, beer, and some delicious American chili. It was truly a perfect evening of laughter, stories, and celebration—a birthday to remember with new friends, old acquaintances, and family.

Day 2: Exploring Offenburg and Lunch at Adler

After a restful night at the Holiday Inn Express in Offenburg (highly recommend—new, clean, and with Dove amenities!), we spent the morning relaxing with friends. For lunch, we headed to Adler, a local gem. This restaurant exceeded all expectations! The food was beyond amazing, with each dish bursting with flavor. The photos we took didn’t do justice to how great everything tasted. From the first bite to the last, it was clear that this was a place worth visiting for anyone passing through the area.

The day ended with a 2.5-hour train ride back to Paris. The view from first class was something out of a dream, with scenic rivers and lush landscapes. By the time we arrived at Paris Gare de l’Est, we were ready to immerse ourselves in the city’s vibrant energy.

Day 3: Eiffel Tower & Photoshoot

Our first full day in Paris started with an early breakfast of croissants and cappuccinos at a nearby café before meeting our tour guide, Ellen, for a tour of the iconic Eiffel Tower. We booked this experience via Viator and opted for the summit tour with an elevator ride to the top. The weather was a mixed bag—rain, fog, and moments of sunshine—but despite it all, the views were incredible.

Ellen was fantastic, guiding us through the history and significance of the Eiffel Tower. We highly recommend booking the summit package and giving yourself an extra hour to explore at your leisure. The glass floor on level 2 is a must-see! It was such a thrill to stand above Paris, feeling like you’re floating above the city.

Afterward, we had a private photoshoot around the Eiffel Tower, which was an absolute highlight. Our photographer, Nina, made the experience unforgettable. She knew the best spots, took her time with us, and delivered stunning photos that truly captured the magic of the moment. It felt like a mini-celebrity experience—one we’ll never forget.

Day 3 (continued): The Mona Lisa at the Louvre

That afternoon, we headed to the Louvre for a VIP skip-the-line tour to see the Mona Lisa. We were lucky to arrive early with no traffic, which gave us time to explore the stunning grounds surrounding the museum.

While we helped out another patron who needed assistance, we unfortunately missed the start of our guided tour. But luck was on our side—the Chief of Security gave us a VIP express escort to the Mona Lisa, allowing us to see the famous painting without the usual crowds. The experience was surreal, and we even had time to enjoy a cappuccino before continuing our Louvre exploration.

Day 3 Evening: Seine River Dinner Cruise

As the sun began to set, we embarked on a Seine River 4-Course Dinner Cruise. This cruise, complete with live music and stunning views of Paris by night, was the perfect way to wrap up our time in the city. Sailing past iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, which sparkled with its twinkling lights, felt like the most magical Parisian experience imaginable.

We enjoyed every course of the meal, with the highlight being the classic French dishes paired with some delicious wine. The soft melodies of live music added to the ambiance, making it a romantic and unforgettable night.

Final Thoughts

Our Paris adventure, from the quiet charm of Offenburg to the bustling streets of Paris, was filled with incredible sights, delicious food, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether it’s exploring the Eiffel Tower, indulging in the local cuisine, or cruising along the Seine, Paris has something to offer everyone.

If you’re planning your own trip, take a moment to explore some of the guided tours we experienced. They really made our time in Paris extra special.