Paris

Paris is reputed as a city of love, art and innovation. Countless films, books and television shows have romanticised this diverse city, inspired by its vibrancy and decadence. It’s no wonder, that with all its publicity and cinematic awe, that so many experience sheer disappointment, otherwise known as ‘Paris syndrome’ upon their arrival. Whilst I cannot claim to share such grievance, I can understand this strange phenomena. When expectations are high and so many sites mislead visitors towards the expensive tourist traps, disappointment is to be expected. Fortunately, I’m here to make your lives a little bit easier and to save you from heartbreak when perusing the city of love!

After extensive research, local insights and my knowledge from previous experience, I have conjured an itinerary perfect for a weekend trip. A mixture of the classics, the touristy and lesser known spots to suit every qualm, every character and every occasion. It might look like an eiffel…but I promise you’ll be able to squeeze most of this in! And if not, well, there’s always next time.

Top tips:

• 18-25 year olds can get into most places for free so make sure to enquire beforehand (only applies to EU citizens and UK).
• Book museums, restaurants, galleries far in advance – most places are heaving with visitors even during off-peak seasons.
• Use Ubers over taxis – there is a standard rate for Uber drivers. Taxi rank drivers often charge excessive rates for tourists.
• Be wary of scams, particularly in prime tourist areas such as the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.

Day 1 – The Scenic Route

This is definitely one for a dry and sunny day, and for those of you who enjoy walking! A river walk alongside the Seine is one of the most recommended activities, and rightfully so. Many gardens, museums, attractions and monuments sit on the cusp of both sides the river, making for the perfect activity to gather your bearings whilst ticking off multiple places on your itinerary!

1. Palais Royal and the Jardin du Palais Royal

Before commencing on your scenic route, head towards the Palais Royal and explore its pristine gardens and architecture. This is a short, but sweet detour as you head towards the Louvre. If you’re travelling from the south towards the Louvre rather than from the north, then check it out after the Louvre – it’s definitely worth a visit!

2. Start at the Louvre Museum

Whilst the Louvre is famously home to the Mona Lisa, the gallery boasts an extensive collection, which could easily fill an entire day! The incredible architecture and its sheer scale are unlike anything else in the city, and whilst admittedly this isn’t my favourite Parisian museum, it’s definitely worth checking off your list!

I recommend getting the earliest ticket slots available and making sure to book ahead of your trip in order to avoid the chaos of queuing crowds.

Price: Tickets cost €17 and are free for under 25 year-olds.

3. Breakfast / Lunch at le Café Marly

Le Café Marly is arguably the best placed restaurant in Paris. Nestled beneath the towering columns of the Louvre, with a perfect view of the pyramid, it is one of the most spectacular spots to sit down for coffee and a croissant. As one would expect, this prime location comes with a steeper price tag than most, but in my opinion, its worth it.

4. Walk through the Jardin des Tuileries

After a morning of fine art, culture and delicious food, it’s time to begin your scenic walk. Anyone who has visited the Eiffel Tower up close, will understand that it is best observed from a distance, and the Jardin des Tuileries is the perfect spot to adore its magnificence from afar. This gorgeous park is bustling with life, pristine lawns, ornate fountains and crowds of visitors relaxing in the sun or enjoying a baguette on the grassy banks.

As you reach the far end, a narrow tree-lined lane that runs alongside the Musee de l’Orangerie, you’ll be greeted by a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower, an ideal spot for a Parisian photoshoot. On this occasion, we didn’t visit the Musee, however, it is a must-visit from previous experience. If time is in your favour, then I highly recommend booking tickets for the museum to awe at the masterful work of Monet and his iconic Water Lilies.

Price: Tickets start at €10.

5. Coffee at Petit Palais

Despite its extravagant exterior and striking golden gates, nothing could have prepared me for treasure that met me inside. A breathtaking gallery no doubt, but that wasn’t the feature that surprised me the most. As you leave the gallery and enter the courtyard, a lush and vibrant garden consumes the centre, rich greens, blossoming pinks and feathery stalks paint the space. On the verge sits a small cafe, with seating alongside this magnificent garden. I recommend stopping by for a coffee and just basking in the blissful peace of nature and the birdsong that echoes throughout this spherical chamber.

Price: free entry

6. Join the Champs-Élysées and climb the Arc de Triomphe

Being the middle of March, by now sunset was quickly approaching so we made our way down the Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe. The Champs-Élysées itself is vastly overrated in my honest opinion. Yes, there are plenty of high-end shops and designer couture, but there are far nicer areas to shop in Paris. At the moment, Louis Vuitton has an impressive display by Yayoi Kusama scaling the side of their store. Make sure to look out for it as you walk by!

Our main objective was to climb the Arc de Triomphe in time for sundown. If you’re only in Paris for a short time then I highly recommend climbing the Arc rather than the Eiffel Tower, the view is far more spectacular. From the top of the Arc, the Eiffel Tower can be gazed upon in all its glory, and make sure to book in time for sunset – it is magnificent!

Price: €13 admission, free for 18-25 year olds (no need to book ahead)

7. A late dinner at Au Pied de Cochon

Not only is the food, the atmosphere, the service exquisite, this is one of few restaurants that are open past 11pm within the city. Serving food until 5am, this restaurant is perfect if you don’t feel like rushing out to dinner in the evening, and even better yet, it was recommended to us by locals! It is authentic, affordable and bustling with life – one of my favourite restaurants from our visit!

8. Attend a speakeasy bar

There are a few of these sprinkled around the city, the most popular being Lavomatic, L’epicier, No Entry and Little Red Door to name a few. Unassumingly disguised as a launderette, a convenience store and so on, the Parisian speakeasy scene is fun, quirky and definitely worth a visit.

Having generated a lot of online attention recently, these bars get packed quickly. The interiors tend to be small with limited capacity so queueing is to be expected. From personal experience, the queues move quite quickly, and the bars are generally better suited to smaller groups.

9. Nightlife

We were closely located to Rex Club so headed there after a few drinks. Like much of Europe, the clubs don’t get busy until past 12am, but are always so much fun when the crowds come through. The music was great and the venue is really fun, but there are lots of options for night lift depending on where you stay:

• Pachamama
• Cova Club
• Jangal
• 824 Heures
• Le Carmen
• Le Station
• Petit Bain Club
• La bellevilloise
• Badaboum

Day 2 – Montmartre to Moulin

On day two, we headed up to the Northern region of Paris (my favourite). Nothing can prepare you for the brilliance of Montmartre, it is unlike anything I have ever experienced. I personally recommend taking an Uber straight to the foot of Montmartre, before climbing the steps up to the top. Don’t waste your money getting the gondola up, it is only a short walk up the hill and you get a brilliant view of Sacré-Coeur as you ascend.

Important: This area is very well-known for scams and pickpocketing so keep your wits about you.

1. Sacré-Coeur and climbing the Dome

Perhaps the most intricate and divine monument in Paris, Sacré-Coeur is absolutely breath-taking both outside and in. Make sure to book tickets to take a look inside, but also to climb the dome, which gives you a panoramic view of the city. Tickets can be bought onsite with no need to book in advance.

2. Wonder the streets towards Place du Tertre

As you wonder the cobbled pavements of Montmartre, weave between gift shops and cafes before stumbling into to the most spectacular square in Paris, Place du Tertre. Here you’ll find artist upon artist pitched up to sell their work or to paint willing subjects. You could spend all day admiring each canvas from stall to stall, before settling down in one of the bordering cafes for a coffee or baguette. The energy of this quarter is indescribable, the ideal location to people watch and bask in the vibrancy of Parisian art and culture.

3. Head to La Maison Rose for Lunch

From April onwards, La Maison Rose is one of the most picturesque restaurants in Paris. It’s pink plastered walls, sage shutters and twisting vines make for the perfect photo and spot for lunch! As this spot is incredibly popular, I highly recommend booking well in advance if you plan on stopping for food.

4. The famous fotoautomat

Situated on 53 Rue des Trois Frères at the foot of Montmartre is a cute and quirky Photo Booth. Whilst this was a super fun detour, the booth has become overly popular online. We queued for about an hour before getting our photos…and was it worth it? Probably not.

5. Parc Monceau

This is slightly out of the way, but totally worth it. You can get here on the metro from Anvers or Pigalle to Monceau. If you spend about half a day exploring Montmartre, then I’d save the afternoon for Parc Monceau, making sure to stay until sundown. After a busy day exploring, sit back and enjoy the peaceful bliss of the park!

6. The Moulin Rouge

We took a minor detour to Vivant Deux for dinner, before heading back towards Moulin Rouge for the evening, however, if you find somewhere to eat near the theatre, I’d recommend booking nearby for convenience. Moulin Rouge is located on the same line as Montmartre, so easily commutable from Parc monceau.

Attending the Moulin Rouge is an absolute must in my opinion. I was blown away by the costumes, the dancing and the acrobatics of the evening. I won’t give too much away as I think it is better enjoyed with ignorant eyes, however, prepare to be pleasantly shocked and entertained all evening!

Price: £180

7. The Machine or O’Sullivans

The Machine is the go to club after attending the late show at the Moulin Rouge, however, if you want to attend you must book in advance. Don’t fret if you forget however, as O’Sullivans next door is the second-best option, herding in crowds of theatre goers. This club is extensive and really great fun, but drinks are pricey (€20 for a double is the norm in most places).

Day 3 – South Side

On our final day we decided to explore the south side of the river, from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower. Again, this is a great one for the walkers, however, Uber, the metro or the bus are always an option as well!

1. Start at Notre-Dame

This is only a quick stop-off at the moment, as much of the monument is still hidden behind screens undergoing construction. Nonetheless, the head of Notre-Dame is still visible and still as beautiful as ever! Whilst the bottom half is hidden away, you can read up on the history of the cathedral as you wonder its perimeter.

You can also check out the Saint-Chapelle and the Conciergerie whilst you’re in the area. These impressive structures are gorgeous and will give you an excuse to explore the island for longer!

2. Grab a croissant or flan from Le Flan de Notre-Dame

We stumbled upon this little bakery as we wondered around Notre-Dame, tempted by some flan tasting en route. The flan is incredible, it was so creamy and delicious, I would happily go back for more. In the mood for a croissant however, we tried some of their quirky filled croissants. I ordered the pistachio and my friend ordered the chocolate banana. Both were delicious, one of the best I’ve had!

3. Head across the bridge to the Pantheon

Located in one of my favourite parts of town, the Latin quarter, sits the Pantheon atop of Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. This beautiful structure is well-worth the slight detour and will take you down some interesting lanes on your way.

4. The Luxembourg gardens and Medici Fountain

Once it’s time to get back on course, head across to the Luxembourg gardens. This vast green space has prim flower beds, gorgeous canopy’s and of-course, the Medici Fountain. The fountain is an exquisite feature of the garden and is absolutely gorgeous from season-to-season.

5. Cafe de Flore

Cafe de Flore is undoubtedly a tourist trap, but it doesn’t hurt to get a photo outside it’s beautiful exterior. Featuring al fresco dining and plush green vines, this corner cafe is quintessentially Parisian, an utterly beautiful spot for a quick photo!

6. Musée d’Orsay

Without a doubt my favourite museum in Paris. If you’re tossing a can between the museums in the interest of time, then Musée d’Orsay is the obvious choice. I can’t even begin to explain how gorgeous this museum is, from its architecture to the collection itself. 100% recommend.

Price: 18-25 year olds go free, €16 full rate – Booking ahead is a must.

7. Taxi to the Eiffel Tower or walk along the river, past Hotel des Invalides

Whilst I personally prefer to walk, time and energy can sometimes be limiting. Nonetheless, the next stop is the Eiffel Tower, but how you get there is entirely up to you. We headed across the river to the Trocadero Gardens, however, if you wish to climb the tower or take a look up close, then head straight to Parc du Champ de Mars.

Either way, the final monument on our list was the most iconic of all. We headed to the Trocadero Gardens for two reasons: 1. because we preferred the view and 2. its only a short walk from Avenue Camoens. The avenue is acclaimed for having the best view of the tower, framed between decadent French housing with a plush and leafy foreground. I have to agree. By daytime, Avenue Camoens is by favourite spot to photograph the tower!

8. A worthy tourist trap: Cafe Carette

We couldn’t head to the Trocadero Gardens without stopping by Cafe Carette to try their infamous hot chocolate. This delicious treat is served with a bowl of cream, a rich and heavenly dessert well worth the hype.

9. Dinner at Chez Francoise

This gorgeous restaurant was recommended to us by a local and it did not disappoint. Discretely situated by the Eiffel Tower, Chez Francoise boasts great food, authenticity and a warm, intimate atmosphere. We loved every dish here and it’s one of the more affordable options in the city. Highly recommend.

10. Watch the Tower Sparkle from Avenue de New York

Every hour from dusk until 11:45pm for 5 minutes, the Eiffel Tower lights up with an extravagant glittering display. There are a range of places you can head to, to see the tower in all its glory, however, in my opinion Avenue de New York is the best location. On the opposite bank from the tower itself, this amazing view across the river is perfect for photos, with a rippling reflection lighting up the Seine!

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More recommendations:

• Café Louis-Philippe: beautiful cafe featured in the Gossip Girl (Lighton Meester & Blake Lively edition).
• National Archives museum (free): French history museum
• Carnavalet museum (free): The oldest museum in Paris
• Musée National Picasso-Paris: Amazing exhibition, one of the best Picasso galleries I’ve been to in Europe
• 59 Rivoli: art gallery and museum (known for contemporary exhibitions and its position on one of Paris’s most fashionable streets)
• L’opera garnier (£12): French opera house. Paid tours available.
• Musee Nissim-de-camondo (£10): Historic house museum.
• Le Galerie Dior: book well in advance, as it gets booked up quickly.
• Musee Rodin (£12): gorgeous museum home to the work of Auguste Rodin.
• Museum Gustave Moreau (£6): house museum featuring the symbolist work of Gustave Moreau.
• Trocadero Gardens: On the opposite bank of the Eiffel Tower, stunning views of the tower and gardens to explore.
• Pont des arts: recommended to go at sunset, famously known as the Padlock bridge.
• Place de l’estrapade: also known as Emily in Paris square.  
• Le Marais: Trendy and vibrant neighbourhood, with plenty of boutiques, restaurants and bars.
• Shakespeare and co: quaint English-speaking bookstore.
• Galerie Vivienne: gorgeous shopping arcade, well worth a visit. Near the Palais-Royal.
• Vintage shopping: Vintage by Ramin, Bobby, Acid Violette, Coiffeur Vintage, Free’p’star.
• Les Jardins du Presbourg: Recommended restaurant near arc de triumph – Pastas & Dessert (£££)
• Le Train Bleu: Stunning restaurant – French cuisine (£££) – Book ahead 
• Bambino: Tapas (££) – Book ahead 
•  Beef Bar: Champs-Élysées quarter – Meat restaurant (££££)
• Perruche: Rooftop restaurant – Mediterranean food (££££) – Book ahead 
• TOO restaurant: Panoramic restaurant by Chef Benjamin Six – World cuisine (£££) – Book ahead
• Skyline bar: Bar with panoramic views of the city (££)
• Madame Brasserie: Near the Eiffel Tower (£££)
• Le bar (plaza Athenee): Cocktails and small plates (£££)
• Moloko: Modern asian restaurant (££££)
• Bao Bar: In Le Marais quarter, this little bar is raved about online, so if you fancy something other than French food, this is definitely worth checking out – (£ – ££)
• 10eme Ciel: Rooftop bar views of Eiffel tower – (£££)
• Ferdi: Known for being both Kim Kardashian & Bella Hadid’s favourite restaurant (especially for the burger & churros) – (£££) – Book well ahead 
• Le Relais de Venise & Baguette du Relais: Famous for steak and chips. Baguette du Relais is an annexe of the famous restaurant, their fast food baguette window, stuffed with their iconic steak, chips and green sauce – (£££) – Book Ahead
• Brasserie Dubillot: French restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails. There are a few restaurants also of the same group dotted around the city – (££) – Book ahead
• Girafe: Seafood restaurant with a terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower – (£££)
• Maison Sauvage: Beautiful exterior – serves World cuisine (££)
• Chez Janou: Highly recommended brasserie – Provençal-style dishes (££)
• Les Deux Magots: Traditional French restaurant, beautiful exterior and great food – (£££) – Make sure to book well ahead
• Angelina cafe: Traditional tea room and pastries – (£££)
• Bisou: Alfresco cocktail bar – (££)
• Buddha bar: Asian fusion restaurant – (££££)
• Le Bar du Marche: Lively French bistro serving breakfast to cocktails, with a brilliant terrace – (££)
• Prescription Cocktail Club: Beautiful cocktail bar with a great range and seasonal menu – (££)
• Poulette: Gorgeous French restaurant serving meat and fish – (££) – Book ahead 
• Boullion Racine: Art Nouveau restaurant in the Latin Quarter – (££ – £££) – Book ahead 
• Coco Paris: Fine dining with a terrace, serving a weekend brunch menu – (££)
• Café Kitsuné: These are very popular with both tourists and locals. A few dotted around the city – (£ – ££)