J'Adore Paris - My top things to do in Paris

This past summer I took a month-long vacation as a reward for being at my company for over 5 years.  I had to think long and hard about what I wanted to do during this time and avoid the temptation to stay home and binge-watch Netflix. Luckily, my appetite for a European vacation outweighed those thoughts quickly.

I had been obsessing about going back to Europe and convinced my best friends to come along for a fun girls trip.  First stop on our 17-day long adventure was Paris. Just like Audrey Hepburn said, “Paris is always a good idea”.

Paris is one the most beautiful cities that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a few times before and it’s one of my faves for a few reasons:

  1. The food. French bread, croissants, cheese, macaroons…need I say more?

  2. The language. I took French in high school and college and I’ve always had a thing for the beautiful language. I wish I spoke it better and going to Paris was another excuse to use it (although I’ll admit, I was rusty)

  3. The charm. Paris is so alive at all hours of the day and every street and neighborhood has its own charm

  4. The people watching. There’s no better city for it - even the millions of cute French cafes have their tables setup to look out towards the street

While I had been a few times before, Elizabeth, Hillary and Katie were first timers so I showed them the ropes.  Here are my recommendations on what to do, see and eat:

Stay

  • The Hoxton: a boutique hotel in the 2nd arrondissement that is reasonably priced, located centrally and has contemporary décor.

Do

  • Head to a local bakery to pick up some french bread, fresh meats and cheeses for a picnic at the Eiffel Tower or along La Seine

  • People watch over breakfast, lunch or a coffee break at one of the many Parisian cafés

  • Wake up early and grab a fresh, warm croissant from a local bakery

  • Take a cooking class. I didn’t make it during my trip, but next time I am definitely going to take this croissant making class

  • Walk and shop. Paris is definitely a walking city and I have provided my favorite neighborhoods to spend a day in below

Neighborhoods

  • Saint-Germain-des-Prét: upscale with tons of cute stores and restaurants

  • Le Marais: one of the best shopping neighborhoods in Paris loaded with trendy boutiques

  • Monmarte: neighborhood with the best view of the city since it’s located on top of a hill

Eat

  • Le Saint Regis: I’m obsessed with this place. It’s an adorable restaurant in the heart of Île Saint-Louis. If you’re into Rosé, highly recommend a glass of Whispering Angel

  • Le Monsieur Bleu: if you’re looking for an upscale meal at a trendy restaurant this is a great option. Food is delicious and it’s close to the Eiffel Tower

  • Le Progres: located in Monmarte, I’ll never forgot the amazing burger and fries I ate here

  • L’As du Fallafel– this is a must especially if you’re looking for a break from all your Le Marais shopping. Cheap and the best falafel you’ll ever have. Pro tip: get it with all the toppings/sauces

  • Le Berthillon– the best ice cream in Paris and local to Île Saint-Louis. If you’re into chocolate like me, you must get that flavor…it’s to die for

  • Ladurée: they have the best macaroons. This Paris originated bakery also has great tea

There are also so many cute cafes throughout the city. These are my top recommendations when you’re looking for coffee and a snack instead of a full meal: Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Claus, Angelina (must get hot chocolate)

Museums

  • Louvre: a must for your first time in Paris. Don’t forget to grab a photo by the glass pyramids

  • Musée d'Orsay: my favorite museum in Paris which houses a beautiful restaurant and huge collection of impressionist art if you’re into Degas / Monet

  • Musée des Arts Décoratifs: for all my fellow fashion lovers, this is the fashion museum of Paris

See

  • La Tour Eiffel: you can’t go to Paris and not visit the Eiffel Tower

  • Notre Dame: The line to get inside is long, but even just taking a view from the outside is just as breathtaking

  • Jardin du Luxembourg: located walking distance from Saint Germaine, a great place to relax with a cappuccino

  • Tuileries gardens: a great place to walk through before or after your visit to the Louvre

  • Sacre Couer - great view of the city from this historic church located in Montmartre

  • If you have time, these require a full day, but they’re worth it!

  • Claude Monet’s Garden @ Giverny

  • Château de Versaille

For those of you that have already visited this beautiful city, please leave a comment with your favorite things to eat, see and do!

Xoxo, Syd

Travel, City GuidesSydneyParis, Things to do in France, Travel guide1 Comment