The air in Paris at midnight holds a different kind of magic than the day filled with the footsteps of millions. I remember one particular evening during my time abroad, when I got to experience this magic. Several students and I were eager to savor our last few days in Paris, so on our free day, we decided to visit the shopping district to find mementos to remember our trip forever. After our spree in Champs-Élysées, we looked for a spot for dinner, bags in tow. Our evening began with a slow and leisurely evening meal at a charming restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner of Paris. Surrounded by friends and laughter, I savored French dishes that proved tradition and innovation, a testament to Paris’s culinary expertise.
After dinner, we ventured along the glimmering Seine. We were determined to see the Eiffel Tower illuminated, so we embarked on a mission to witness its breathtaking beauty after sundown. As we approached, the tower lit up under the dark sky, and at midnight it began to shimmer with twinkling lights that danced like stars. We were so mesmerized by its glamour, as we stood taking pictures, videos, and even called friends and family from home to share this moment, all in collective wonder.
From there we wandered through the streets of Paris, where restaurants, bars, and cafes were still alive with nightlife. The atmosphere was electric, proof of Paris being another “city that never sleeps”. As it grew late, we made our way to the metro station, (almost) pros at navigating by the end of the first week. The train took us through the tiled tunnels until we arrived at the stop I had memorized, “Gare de Lyon”. Walking back to our neighborhood, we told each other goodnight in hopes we would have yet another magical midnight in Paris.
