Paris in Black and White

On a wet and rainy day in December, I left for Paris for a few days to fill the little lull between Christmas and the New Year. It was cold, but thankfully I left the rain behind me in the UK. I traveled around Paris by foot and metro to capture these images of the city in black and white. My main aim was to photograph as much of Paris as possible during the four days I was there. If one has the time and energy, Paris is very easy to navigate on foot.

The Basilica Sacre Coeur is majestically located on the Montmatre Hill and offers amazing views across Paris. It was well worth climbing the 300 steps to the top to see the city from new heights. While Montmatre is mainly known for the white-domed Basilica on its summit, it is also known for being home to many famous artists from the past who had studios or worked around the community of Montmatre. The artistic influence remains today with an open square, home to many working artists selling their work. Simply wandering through the streets one can enjoy the beautiful Parisian architecture, shutters on windows, and weathered doors.

The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral is located on the Ile de la Cite, one of the two remaining natural islands in the River Seine. With the eclectic stalls of the Left Bank, scenic walks along the Seine, and of course exploring the Cathedral, there is plenty to see in this area of Paris. The bridges are adorned with Love Locks – pledges made between lovers where padlocks are attached to the bridge and keys thrown into the river sealing their love forever.

Hôtel de Ville is a short walk from Notre Dame and is home to a permanent carousel and a seasonal ice skating rink. The hotel offers a great opportunity for street photography, or just a nice place to watch the world go by.

The Louvre is a stunning building. Originally a royal palace, it is now the world’s most famous museum. It’s a must for anyone with a slight interest in art as it is here where one can see celebrated pieces including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and my personal favorite, the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

From the Louvre one can wander through the pretty Tuilerie Gardens which lead to the Champs Elysee. In December, hundreds of market stalls can be found along the Champs Elysee, making it quite a sight to see with hundreds of twinkly lights and stalls full of fabulously aromatic food, all set against a backdrop of expensive designer shops.

Of course, no visit to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Taking a road off the Champs Elysee and across the Pont Alexandre III one can wander through the military hospital, Les Invalides, and on to the Eiffel Tower.

I think Paris is one of those cities that one can never tire off. Being so easily accessible from the UK, it is a very appealing city destination. And with cafes and restaurants in abundance, visitors are spoiled for choice on where and what they’d like to eat.

Ibis Hotel, Porte d’Italie
13 Rue du Val de Marne
94250 Gentilly, France
+33 1 49 69 94 94

While in Monmarte, climb the 300 steps to the top of the Basilica Sacre Coeur for spectacular views of Paris from above.

Notre Dame, The Louvre, The Eiffel Tower, and Hotel de Ville are classics for good reason. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to each.

Hotels located towards the outskirts are a great value for the money, especially if only being used as a place to shower and sleep.

Andrea is an artist based in the UK and enjoys living a creative life with her two daughters and two cats. She is involved in many different creative projects which include photography, design, art and craft and of course travel.