🇫🇷 Paris, France
I could visit Paris over and over again. Can’t get enough of the uneven cobblestones, impressive art, rich history, and hot, flaky chocolate croissants. This guide doesn’t even scratch the surface of everything Paris has to offer, but it will be enough to keep you occupied for a week!
Time to go:
I have been in June and in April, and both times were amazing. In my opinion, spring is the most magical time in Paris!
Currency:
The Euro, which can be a blessing or a curse depending on when you go.
Language:
Thank goodness I took French in high school, because the French really appreciate when you make an effort to speak the language.
Transportation:
The last time I was there, I used Uber or walked the whole time. Uber’s are not that expensive and Paris is such a walkable city!
eat —
Claus:
Really good place for a full breakfast. Amazing pastries too.
Wild & The Moon:
Healthy juices and other eats. Super cute branding as well.
Honor Cafe:
An Australian coffee shop in Paris.
Cafe Kitsune:
Grab an iced latte here before walking through the Palais-Royal.
Ernest & Valentin:
Amazing pastries. #appleturnover
Le Chocolat des Francais:
Chocolate, chocolate & more chocolate. Super cute packaging too.
Ober Mamma:
The cutest Italian restaurant with an even cooler website. Get the pizzas & the cocktails.
Cafe De Flore:
One of the oldest bistros in Paris, think Picasso and Dali.
Frenchie & Frenchie To Go:
Half fancy sit-down restaurant & half take-out across the street. Really good either way you do it.
Cafe Pinson:
Flavorful vegetarian food.
Berthillon:
ICE CREAM. Enough said.
Little Red Door:
A bar where you pick your drink based on a piece of artwork.
stay —
L’hotel Horset Opera Paris: $$
Since I was traveling alone, I wanted something inexpensive, clean, centrally located, and with a 24 hour concierge. I honestly was pleasantly surprised with this hotel. It’s within walking distance of all the sites, and had a balcony with gorgeous light and a view of the quaint Parisian streets.
Belleval Hotel: $$$
If you are looking for something more luxurious, this hotel was one I had read about which is impeccably designed, has a gym & sauna, chic bar, and delicious restaurant.
Mama Shelter: $
If you are looking for a funky, artsy vibe, Mama Shelter does the trick. They are located in a ton of cities and are extremely affordable.
art —
Louvre:
A must see, yet very overwhelming. I would pick a few sections of art that you want to dive into, and then go from there. Also if your’e like me and still have your college ID with no expiration date, you get a legit discount for this museum.
Musée de l'Orangerie:
A MUST. Monet’s waterlilies are truly breathtaking. You can also get in here for free with a student ID.
Musee D’orsay:
Another good one if you are into French art. Cue Manet, Rousseau & Renoir.
culture —
Jardin du Palais-Royal:
Such a magical walk, with flowers blooming bright in the spring time.
Versailles:
Just buy the ticket and wait in the line, its 100% worth it. Protip: Get there early and on a week day to avoid crowds.
Montmartre:
A large hill in the 18th arrondissement that most people walk up to get to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Doing a walking tour would be the best way to experience this artistic & historic neighborhood.
Eiffel Tower:
The obvious choice. It is definitely worth a visit. Maybe grab a baguette and bottle of wine and enjoy the light show at night. I skipped climbing to the top and climbed the Arc de Triomphe instead, which was half the price.
Arc De Triomphe:
Shopping on this street was as mainstream as it comes, but it’s worth a climb to the top for amazing views of the city & Eiffel Tower.
shop —
Puces de Vanves:
A Parisian flea market where you can find a million little treasures.
Papier Tigre:
A creative design shop featuring office items like notebooks, funky tape, totes, pens and other knick knacks.
Maison Kitsune:
This brand is an iconic one, blending music with fashion in this Paris-meets-Tokyo inspired fashion brand.
Fragonard Parfumeur:
Amazing perfumes. I mean you’re in Paris, so you may as well go for it.
Mariage Freres:
A classic French tea shop. The tins are gorgeous and they make great gifts!
Galeries Lafayette:
A large french department store that is worth a trip. I got a ton of little gifts for friends and family here.
