Paris is likely the most visited city in Europe, attracting millions visitors annually, and this constant tourism boom has significantly impacted the housing market. Paris is on another level. It’s probably the most beautiful city I’ve ever visited, and I was quite skeptical before I saw it for myself. Paris is charming, aesthetically pleasing, well-organized, green, and simply amazing.
With around 12 million people in the greater Paris area, it’s the most populated region in Europe. Each neighborhood has enough history to fill its own movie.
I arrived in Paris via Beauvais Airport. The bus ride cost €20, and after about two hours, we stopped at St. Denis. I think there was some sort of market that day, so we decided to take a look. My first impression was that there were a lot of police around.
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| Paris on the waaaay |
We made our way into central Paris later, visited some landmarks, and had a coffee with a croissant — very typical for a tourist experience.
Our apartment was located on the eastern side of Paris, so we used the metro to get around. A regular metro ticket costs €2, but during the time of the Olympics, it was €4. We booked the apartment on Airbnb, and it was cozy and quite interesting. It was obvious the building was very old, though a modern elevator had recently been added. The balcony was unique—very small and long, with protective barriers.
Later that day, we visited the Eiffel Tower. My impressions? It was much bigger than I expected, and also much cleaner than I had imagined. You can go under the tower, where there’s a control point. There’s also an elevator that takes you up to the top.
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| Landmarks of Pairs: Statues and Eiffel Tower |
The next day, we visited a park on the east side of Paris where there was a festival. We also saw other landmarks like the obelisks.
On the third day, we went to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, but it was incredibly crowded. We also visited a park near the Olympic Games venue, which was another popular spot.
Since we visited during the Olympics, everything was a bit overcrowded, but despite that, I can confidently say that Paris is the most beautiful city I’ve ever visited.
Paris is often considered by many to be the most beautiful city in the world, and there are several reasons why, or I why I think so.
During my visit to Paris, I found myself debating a topic that seems to be a big deal for locals: the struggle to find affordable housing. Many French people, as well as visitors, have trouble navigating the city’s housing market, especially when it comes to rental properties. The problem is compounded by the fact that many of these rentals are not only expensive but also not particularly attractive for long-term living.
I think the answer is simple: it’s more financially rewarding for property owners to rent out their apartments to tourists than to locals. With the massive influx of tourists every year, short-term rentals have become much more profitable. Instead of renting out a place on a monthly basis to a local, property owners can charge higher rates for short stays, which makes more economic sense.
Moreover, managing short-term rentals has become a full-time job for many people. Taking care of bookings, cleaning, and guest communication can be a steady source of income, which is why so many are doing it professionally.
This is what makes Paris so beautiful
The River: The Seine River divides the city into two parts, which naturally leads to the creation of bridges and walking areas along its banks. The river also hosts numerous boats, adding a dynamic energy to the environment and offering scenic views of the city.
Landmarks: Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings and art collections, including the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa, making it a must-visit destination for art and history lovers.
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| Paris Olimpic Games; Eiffel Tower; The Arc de Triomphe |
Movies and Books: Paris has been romanticized in countless films and novels, making it a top destination for travelers, particularly those from non-European countries. Its image as a city of love, culture, and charm has captured the imagination of people worldwide.
During my visit to Paris, I was struck by the city’s beauty and its housing challenges. The demand for short-term rentals, driven by tourism, has made it more financially rewarding for property owners to rent to tourists rather than locals. This has led to rising rental prices and a shortage of affordable housing. With millions of tourists visiting annually, many properties are snapped up for short stays, leaving locals struggling to find affordable options.
Paris is a city of contrasts—its stunning landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre attract visitors, but overcrowding, especially during major events like the Olympics, can detract from the experience. Public transportation, like the metro, is easy to navigate, though prices can fluctuate during peak times. Despite these challenges, Paris remains one of the most beautiful cities, with its iconic River Seine, rich history, and vibrant culture.
