Weekend in Paris
Paris will be forever romanticized in my head, and I would like to keep it that way. Consuming all things Paris is a hobby of mine, whether it be my random attempts at learning French, watching films set in Paris, or mindlessly scrolling Instagram for Paris inspiration, I am here for it.
With its proximity to London and ease of travel, thanks to the Eurostar, the question is really, why don't I get there more often. After multiple trips to Paris, I can honestly say it’s one of my favorite places to visit in Europe, as cliché as that is.
I have narrowed down my favorite spots in Paris, if you are visiting for the first time, or just for a short time. If you are a self-proclaimed Francophile, you will appreciate my typical and (not so typical) suggestions for your long weekend in France’s much-loved capital.
TO DO:
Sometimes you just need to embrace the clichés and fully lean into the stereotypical things a tourist should do (who cares). Hopefully you can fit this all in, and still have plenty of time to sit and linger over fries and wine.
The Eiffel Tower | I still remember the first time I saw this, it took my breathe away. Not because its so0o0o beautiful, but because it was one of those pinch me moments/ can you believe this is real sort of thing. Make sure you see it during the day, and at least once at night (on the hour so you see it sparkle).
The Louvre | Book your tickets ahead of time, as they can be sold out/ long queue when you arrive mean you really want that slot booked. Keep in mind the Louvre is MASSIVE, you will likely get lost (but that’s ideal). If you want to maximize your time, maybe scope out a few exhibits you want to see ahead of time.
d’Orsay | My personal favorite museum in Paris, but hey I love museums with incredible architecture, and this one DELIVERS. Plan to spend a few hours!
Notre Dame | Even though, at present, the beautiful church is still under construction, it is still worth seeing it from the outside.
Pantheon | Get ready to be blown away grand architecture. Depending on the time of year, you might be able to walk up and get a ticket.
Montmartre | My suggestion is to come here and simply walk around, people watch from one of the restaurants facing the square, have a little onion soup or moules + frites (my two favorites), and bask in the glory of all of the artists who have walked this area before you. While you are up here (and I do mean UP) check out Sacré-Cœr. Bonus: if you go at sunset, or anytime of day, you can get an amazing shot of the Eiffel Tower. Be warned, many other tourists have this same idea, but Montmartre is magical!
Palais Royal | Very ascetically please, go take some fun photos!
Jardin du Luxembourg | Gorgeous park to visit, with beautiful gardens, a great place to take a break from the city.
TO EAT:
I love French food to say the least, so being in Paris is a pleasure in more way than one! For me it is also not solely based on the food
Ellsworth | One of my favorites in Paris, for an intimate experience, paired with an elevated cuisine.
Telescope Café | Cute coffee spot, that has made a big name for itself in the Paris Coffee scene.
PNY Faubourg | Awesome burgers, in an ultra-casual setting. Try some of their lemonade and don’t skip on the fries.
La Maison d’Isabelle | THE best croissants!
Le Bouillon Chartier | Set in a gorgeous building, come for classic French fare. Be warned, there will be a line, but all part of the experience.
Le Relais Gascon | Come for some salads topped with potatoes- odd combo, but a really nice experience!
Ten Belles | amazing coffee and pastries, need I say more?
Caoua Coffee Stop | My absolute favorite coffee in Paris. They also male excellent options for breakfast, go for the eggs Benedict!
Bouillon Julien | Classic French food, in a great gorgeous setting. Likely, there will be a line.
Au Trappiste | 4 Rue Saint-Denis, 75001 Paris, France, Come here for some delicious mussels and order fries! If you are a beer fan, this place has many on offer.
Du Pain et des Idées | Amazing pastries, need I say more?
TO STAY:
As I have not found my perfect hotel yet, I will rather tell you some areas I particularly like! Great spots are the 11th, 1st, 5th, around Canal St Martin (great coffee spots and restaurants in certain parts (check that out first). I don’t think you can really go wrong if you are in the center of Paris.
