My Paris Travel Guide
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young (wo)man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”
-Ernest Hemingway
Those that know me, know that I j’adore Paris and this quote by Ernest Hemingway speaks volumes. I was fortunate enough in my teenage years to live in France as an International Exchange Student with the Rotary Club and that experience has forever shaped me into the person I am today.
I am beyond excited to share with you my Guide to Paris. This is an extensive guide of my favorite restaurants, cafes, boulangeries, shopping, museums, and day-trips.
On My PACKING LIST
WHEN to GO
It’s hard to beat a visit to Paris in the Spring or Summer months when the weather is warm and Parisians flock to the south of France or Corsica, an idyllic French island in the Mediterranean. You can avoid the crowds in August but be prepared for a few shops and restaurants to be closed. My favorite time to visit Paris, is in Spring when the gardens start to bloom, and the weather is ideal.
THINGS to KNOW
Currency: Euro
Language: French
Common Phrases:
I don’t speak French: Je ne parle pas français
I’m lost: Je suis perdu(e)
I would like: Je voudrais…
HOW to GET AROUND
Trains: The easiest (and often the fastest) way to get around the city is by train, whether it’s the Paris Metro or the RER.
Taxis: Taxis are a great option and most accept credit cards; or hop in an Uber.
Car Service: If you feel more comfortable arranging your airport pick-up in advance or seeing the city with a private driver, I recommend booking your service through Service Chauffeur Paris or Luxury Chauffeur Service.
WHERE to STAY
The Hoxton, Paris
Hip and youthful, the Hoxton is sure to appeal to younger generations. The hotel was a grand 18th century residence that retained the building’s original staircases and mosaic marble floors. The Hoxton has three drink and dining options that are within easy walking distance of Le Marias, Jardin des Tuileries, and the Louvre.
Crowne Plaza Paris – Republique
Located right on the Place de la République and walking distance to the Marais district, the Crowne Plaza is in an ideal location far enough away from the hordes of tourists but close enough to all of the cities attractions.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris – Opera District
Bringing a creative flair to its 1917 Art Nouveau façade, the Kimpton is walking distance to the Opera house and in one of Paris’s coveted neighborhoods. It boasts 149 stylish guest rooms, including 26 suites, a cutting-edge spa, and a 360-degree view rooftop bar and garden.
InterContinental Paris – Le Grand
Inaugurated under Napoleon III, the InterContinental Paris le Grand is located in the heart of Paris, offering guests a magnificent view of the Opera Garnier. This 5-star hotel boasts rooms and suites decorated in a Second Empire style infused with contemporary touches and unique reception venues.
Hotel Ritz Paris
It doesn’t get much better than the Ritz, and the iconic brand’s Paris hotel meets every expectation. The Ritz Paris is perfectly attuned to the rhythms of Parisian life. Combining majestic décor with a welcoming smile, it’s the perfect encapsulation of the French “art of living”.
WHERE to EAT
Holybelly 5
Breakfast
There’s nothing quite like a big breakfast and Holybelly 5 is where it’s at! The service is friendly, and the food is fantastic.
Le Potager de Charlotte
Farm-to-Table
Created by two brothers who were passionate about elevating plant-based cuisine made from fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce. There are two locations in the city, and I took my stepdaughter to the one located in the 9th arr. and it was hands down one of the best meals I had ever had while visiting the city.
L’Ambroisie
French
If you’re a foodie, chances are you know of L’Ambroisie – the longest-standing, three-starred Michelin restaurant in Paris. The menu is an ode to French cooking, like foie gras or lobster from Brittany. Note: you will need to make reservations well inadvance for this indoore restaurant.
Angelina
Tearoom
Over the last 120 years, the Angelina tearoom has become the epitome of French sophistication. From the moment you walk in the doors, the smell of sweet confections of Macaroons and patisseries will enhance your senses. Have time for a bite to eat, I highly recommend it!
Ralph’s
American
Sunday brunch at Ralph’s is a must and so are reservations. This is a spot that I’ll be returning to every time I’m in Paris
THINGS to DO & SEE
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is known for many things, but it’s most widely known for being the home to the Mona Lisa. Make sure to put aside plenty of time to take it all in – I would recommend a full day to ensure you have ample time to take it all in.
Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame Cathedral, commonly referred to as Notre Dame de Paris (“Our Lady of Paris”) or simple Notre Dame, is located on the eastern half of Île de la Cité, an island in the Seine River within Paris’s 4tharrondissement. Since the April 2019 fire, interior access is no longer an option, but you can walk around the medieval cathedral on a guided tour.
Jardin des Tuileries
Also known as the Tuileries Garden, was once the garden of the Tuileries Palace, but after the French Revolution it opened to the public. Sitting between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, this garden has wonderful walking paths, great people watching and is one of my favorite gardens to get to in the city.
Eiffel Tower
It’s on many visitors’ must see-lists, but in order to beat the lines I would recommend booking tickets in advance; they go on sale 60 days out. On the lower level of the second floor, you’ll find the famous Pierre Hermé macaron bar, a buffet, shops, and a kiosk serving drinks, including champagne.
Musée d'Orsay
Paris has over 100 museums, but arguably one are more beautiful than the Musée d'Orsay, which is housed in an old railway station. If you’re a lover of French art, this is the museum for you.
SHOPPING
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
The high-end French department store is worth a visit and is famous for its incredible selection of fashion, but also for its amazing architecture.
Shakespeare and Company
This English-language bookstore is a must-visit for literary lovers.
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche
One of the first modern department stores in Paris, inside is filled with designs from brands like Celine, Burberry, Balenciaga, and Dior.
DAY TRIPS
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles sits just on the outskirts of Paris in the city of Versailles. It’s a quick 30-minute train ride from the city and an easy walk from the train station to the palace. This stunning chateau was the principal royal residence for French royalty between 1682 and 1789, and housed famous historical figures like King Louis XVI – the last king of France – and his iconic wife, Marie Antoinette.
GIVERNY
Home to the real-life inspiration for Monet’s Water Lilies, Giverny (and gardens) is only 45 minutes by train from Paris. Visit Monet’s House and Gardens or the Musée des Impressionnismes while you’re visiting the city.
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
If you’re visiting France around Christmas, a day trip to Strasbourg on the German border is a must. It’s a little under 2 hours by train each way and the city is known for its Christmas Market where you can pick up some last-minute gifts.
Étretat
Jump on a high-speed train and head two-hours north to the seaside town in Normandy. It’s famous for its white cliffs and rock formations, offering lots to do in the way of hikes and nature walks.
Fontainebleau
Known for the nearby Château de Fontainebleau is a UNESCO World Heritage site only 50 minutes from Paris. Similar to Versailles, the palace is enough to take up a whole day, so plan accordingly.
Chateau de Chantilly
I couldn’t end this guide without mentioning my favorite French Château, Château de Chantilly. I’m partial to this Château as it’s located in the same town that I lived while studying abroad and would often wander the grounds after school or have a picnic during lunch hour with my friends.
