My second stop on my solo European rail trip was Paris. I wasn’t originally planning to meet anyone here — but by sheer coincidence, a few friends happened to be in Europe at the same time, following Bruce Springsteen on the European leg of his world tour. Our paths crossed in Montmartre, and I ended up going to the show. It was unexpected, energizing, and the perfect morale boost early in the journey.

One of my favorite experiences was a Paris at Night tour. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect — a fiery sunset over the Seine, and a glowing pass by the Eiffel Tower just as the evening lights began to sparkle. Paris really knows how to show off after dark.

Of course, there were the everyday Parisian pleasures: café chairs pointed toward the street, wine and people-watching, wandering charming alleyways late into the evening. I made my way through the 11th Arrondissement and visited Père Lachaise Cemetery, where I passed by Jim Morrison’s resting place.

I also spent hours exploring the vast galleries of The Louvre, checked another major European museum off my list, and enjoyed riverside walks along the Seine afterward. The Paris Metro took a little getting used to — I wasn’t totally confident in the ticketing system at first and once got stopped by a very frantic controller convinced I hadn’t paid. Another time, in La Défense, I bought an RER ticket when all I needed was the Metro. Still, I found navigating the city fun, once the learning curve smoothed out.

People often warn American tourists that Paris can be disappointing, but I had a great time. Maybe coming from Philadelphia and New York has already prepared me well for a little grit and city chaos. Paris felt lively, historic, and full of character I’d happily return again.

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