Paris, the City of Lights, holds a special place in my heart. It’s the city where my mother, a Parisian born and raised, fell in love with my American father. While their love story blossomed across continents, my mother’s love for Paris remained steadfast, a timeless romance. This Parisian guide isn’t just about the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, it’s a journey through my mother’s eyes, a glimpse into the secrets and treasures she has shared with me over the years. It’s a personal exploration of the places that make this vibrant city feel like a second home.
Finding Your Parisian Haven: Where to Stay
Looking for a place to rest your head in the City of Love? Forget the tourist traps! Skip the standard hotels and dive into the Parisian way of life by booking a cozy Airbnb. Explore the charming neighborhoods of the 1st to 8th arrondissements, and venture further to the 12th, 13th, and 15th for a truly local experience. These districts offer a blend of history and modern charm, all within a stone’s throw of the Seine River, a picturesque backdrop for any Parisian adventure.
If you’re looking for luxury and sophistication, Le Narcisse in the 7th Arrondissement and L’Hotel in the 6th (where the legendary Oscar Wilde spent his final days) are both worth a visit. For a more modern vibe, check out The Hoxton Paris in the 2nd Arrondissement, a trendy spot that opened its doors last August. Hotel Baume in the 6th and Hotel Alizé Grennelle in the 15th are also excellent choices, offering comfort and style.
Remember, Paris isn’t known for its budget-friendly hotels, so be prepared for smaller rooms, regardless of the price tag.
A Culinary Journey: From Crȇpes to Fromage Blanc
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in its culinary delights, and crȇpes are a must-try. La Crȇperie de Josselin is a hidden gem, serving authentic Breton crȇpes that will transport you straight to the heart of the region. Its popularity speaks for itself – it’s always packed, even in a neighborhood brimming with crȇperies.
A Parisian café experience is essential, and I highly recommend Café Le Rostand, overlooking the serene Jardin du Luxembourg. Sit outside on a warm day and enjoy a slice of their homemade tarts. For classic French fare with a stunning view of the École Militaire, head to La Terrasse. And don’t forget to make your way to Les Deux Magots, a literary landmark frequented by iconic figures like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre.
But Paris isn’t just about fancy restaurants. Venture beyond the tourist traps and discover the joy of French grocery stores, a paradise for food lovers. Monoprix is a great option, stocked with my favorite French snacks: giant praline chocolates from Suchard, mini “crȇpes dentelles fromage”, Riz Au Lait by Montblanc, “céréales fourrées chocolat”, and a truly unique “fromage blanc” yogurt.
No Parisian adventure is complete without indulging in delicious desserts. Stohrer, one of France’s oldest pastry shops, is a must-visit. Sample their exquisite “puits d’amour,” “baba au rhum,” “religieuse,” “éclair,” or “macaron”, and experience a taste of history. Mulot in the Saint-Germain area is another great option for sweet treats. And for the ultimate Parisian ice cream experience, head to Berthillon, known for its rich and flavorful ice cream.
A Parisian Promenade: Exploring the City’s Gems
While the Louvre is a must-see, Paris offers a wealth of other fascinating museums. Musée du Luxembourg, with its breathtaking Jardin du Luxembourg, is a perfect spot to escape the city bustle. Le Petit Palais, with its exquisite collection, is a visual treat. Le Grand Palais is another architectural masterpiece with captivating exhibits. For history buffs, Musée Carnavalet offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. And for a glimpse into the world of Victor Hugo, visit Maison Victor Hugo, his former residence in Place des Vosges.
For a unique perspective of the city, hop on a Vedettes du Pont-Neuf boat tour and admire Paris from the Seine.
Paris holds secrets within its depths. Venture into the Catacombs for a spooky and somber experience, a glimpse into the city’s mortality. Explore the famous cemeteries of Montparnasse and Père Lachaise, where the city’s most renowned figures rest. And immerse yourself in Parisian history by visiting the iconic Notre-Dame and Saint-Julien Le Pauvre, one of the city’s oldest churches.
Parisian Treasures: Shopping and More
Paris is a shopper’s paradise. Dive into the vintage charm of the Marais neighborhood and explore the quirky vintage store at 32 Rue des Rosiers. For stylish and affordable clothing, Monoprix is a hidden gem. For all your beauty needs, head to City Pharma, a bustling and affordable pharmacy. Mademoiselle Bio is another great option, offering organic and natural products.
If you’re a fan of old prints and maps, Galerie Martinez-Fleurot and Galerie Paul Prouté are must-visits.
For those who love crafting, I.D.M. is a treasure trove of sewing supplies. La Droguerie is a bead-lover’s paradise, offering an impressive selection of beads, threads, and yarns.
And if you’re looking for fabric heaven, head to Déballage Dreyfus, Tissus Reine, and Sacrés Coupons near Montmartre.
A few tips for a truly Parisian experience:
- Look for a bakery that markets itself as an “artisan boulanger” for the best baguettes.
- Pick up some chouquettes with your baguette – delicious sugar-crusted puffs.
- Browse the bouquinistes, outdoor booksellers along the Seine.
- Remember that the subway closes at 12:45 a.m. and reopens at 5 a.m.
- Take advantage of the city’s efficient bus system.
- Beware of pickpockets – they are unfortunately common in Paris.
- Tip a couple of euros at restaurants and bars as service is included in the bill.
Paris, a city of love, history, and culinary delights, awaits you. With its charming streets, hidden treasures, and vibrant spirit, it’s a place that will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more. So pack your bags, open your senses, and let the magic of Paris unfold.
