My Ultimate Paris Guide!
Wedding and Elopement Photographer - Paris, France
This post has been on my mind for a while especially when friends and clients ask for my Paris recommendations for restaurants etc so here it is! It will be a continuous work in progress as I discover new favourites and recommendations, but after 13 years of knowing and loving Paris, the City of Lights, I have some definite favourites. :)
EAT:
The best hot chocolate in Paris - https://www.angelina-paris.fr/ and believe me I have done the leg work! Just make sure to go to the main one on Rue du Rivoli
A lovely lunch spot near the Luxembourg Gardens - treizeaujardin.com
A super fun restaurant; the food is good too and you eat in the dark! - https://paris.danslenoir.com/en/unusual-restaurant-in-paris.html
This place is fun - https://www.buddhabar.com/en/restaurants/buddha-bar-paris/
This is lovely and you can book a tiny private dining room for two - https://laperouse.com/en/
https://tourdargent.com/
https://www.fourseasons.com/paris/dining/restaurants/le_cinq/
High cuisine (restaurant Arpege) - https://www.alain-passard.com/en/
Japanese, a little different to the usual - http://www.atsushitanaka.com/
A lovely people watching cafe near the Louvre - https://www.lenemours.paris
https://www.lesaintregis-paris.com - near Notre Dame, another good people watching cafe
I discovered this in my first few months in Paris way back almost 12 years ago and have loved it ever since - http://leloirdanslatheiere.com/
https://laplumerivedroite.com/en/
https://monsieurbleu-restaurant.com/en/
https://www.lesombres-restaurant.com/en/
https://restaurant-coco.com/en/paris/
https://en.terrass-hotel.com/restaurant
https://calife.com/en/ - river cruise restaurant
https://restaurantgeorgesparis.com/en/
https://restaurantpassionne.com/en/
https://www.daroco.com/en/restaurant/daroco-bourse-2
https://www.ama-paris.fr/en/
https://www.chevalblanc.com/en/maison/paris/restaurants-and-bars/
https://www.twentytwoclubparis.com/ - for bigger groups
https://www.restaurant-erh.com/
https://www.louloufriendlydiner.com/en
https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/cafe I love this because of it’s bookstore
https://www.leparadisdufruit.fr/ - a chain but excellent and healthy
I once lived near her for 4 years and the tea and food is delicious - https://www.la-mosquee.com/
Great shopping too - https://merci-merci.com/en/pages/le-cine-cafe
http://www.404-resto.com/menu
https://www.milagroparis.com/
https://www.ziaparis.com/
STAY
I love - https://www.shangri-la.com/paris/shangrila/
https://hoteleldoradoparis.com/
https://www.lenarcisseblanc.com/en/
https://www.hotelmonge.com
https://www.relais-christine.com/
https://www.saint-james-paris.com/ - very fun hotel!
https://www.grandhoteldupalaisroyal.com/en/
https://hotelbienvenue.fr/
https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/hotel-de-crillon
https://maisonelle.fr/en/
https://kimptonsthonoreparis.com/en/
https://www.bulgarihotels.com/paris
https://www.ritzparis.com/en-GB
https://www.hotelparticulier.com/
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/cdgtpwa-waldorf-astoria-versailles-trianon-palace/hotel-info/ - Versailles
https://airelles.com/en/destination/chateau-de-versailles-hotel - Versailles
DO
One of my favorite places in Paris is Versailles, even though it is a little outside the city. Of course visit the chateau and gardens, it’s definitely a day trip but there are also lots of activities - https://airelles.com/en/destination/chateau-de-versailles-hotel
https://en.chateauversailles.fr/
I love a trip to the Shakespere & Company Bookstore, it’s so quaint - https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/
Obvious & a cliche but I never tire of the Louvre, in Summer be there early as the queue to get in can be huge or go late afternoon onwards but it will leave you with less time and believe me you need as much time as possible - https://www.louvre.fr/en
The Musee D’Orsay is great too and not as big as the Louvre - https://www.musee-orsay.fr/en
The bus tours are good, especially for first timers to Paris and if you don’t have a lot of time, it gives you a quick summary of the main interests - https://www.bigbustours.com/en/paris/hop-on-hop-off-paris
For the foodies out there I did a macaron course in Le Cordon Bleu and highly recommend it, they have super half day courses - https://www.cordonbleu.edu/paris/pastry-cuisine-wine-workshops-in-paris/en#workshop
For photography fans you can find some interesting exhibitions here - https://www.mep-fr.org/en/homepage
Napoleons tomb is beautiful and part of the war museum - https://www.musee-armee.fr/en/your-visit/museum-spaces/dome-des-invalides-tomb-of-napoleon-i.html
On the subject of tombs, Pere Lachaise is beautiful & peaceful and full of history - https://parisjetaime.com/eng/article/unusual-stroll-cemetery-pere-lachaise-a731
GENERAL TIPS
Plan Ahead: Research and make a list of the attractions you want to visit to maximize your time.
Museum Pass: Consider getting a Paris Museum Pass for access to many museums and attractions.
Metro: Learn how to use the Paris Metro – it's the easiest way to get around the city. However Paris is a great walking city and it is the best way to discover it’s gems! Uber is also super useful!
Language: Learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
Eiffel Tower: Book tickets online in advance to skip long lines.
Seine River Cruise: Take a Seine River cruise for a unique view of the city, especially at night.
Cafés: Enjoy a leisurely meal at a sidewalk café; it's a quintessential Parisian experience.
Walking Tours: Join a guided walking tour to explore neighborhoods like Montmartre or the Marais.
Picnics: Have a picnic in one of the beautiful parks like Luxembourg Gardens or along the Seine.
Safety: Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
Local Cuisine: Try traditional French dishes like croissants, escargot, and crepes.
Museums: Don't miss the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and Centre Pompidou.
Versailles: If time allows, take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles.
Shopping: Explore the shops along the Champs-Élysées or visit local markets.
Galeries Lafayette is lovely at Christmas for the tree but Bon Marche is much less crowded,. The Marais is full of lovely little boutiques.
Time to Relax: Leave some time for spontaneous exploration and relaxation; Paris is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Cathedrals: Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré-Cœur Basilica for their stunning architecture and views.
Montmartre: Explore the charming Montmartre neighborhood, known for its artistic history.
Champs-Élysées: Walk down the iconic Champs-Élysées Avenue and visit the Arc de Triomphe.
Day Trips: Consider day trips to nearby destinations like Giverny (Monet's garden), Normandy, or the Champagne region.
Free Attractions: Some attractions like the Panthéon are free to enter.
Local Markets: Experience local life by visiting markets like Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (flea market) or Marché Bastille.
Dress Code: Pack comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring a lot on foot, and dress stylishly as Parisians do.
Art Galleries: Explore lesser-known art galleries for a more intimate art experience.
Tipping: Tipping is not as common as in some other countries, but it's appreciated for good service.
Sunset at the Seine: Enjoy a romantic sunset by the Seine River, especially near the Eiffel Tower.
Moulin Rouge: If you're interested, book tickets to a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge.
Plan for Crowds: Paris is a popular destination; expect crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance to cover unexpected events during your trip.
Electric Adapters: Bring a universal adapter if your devices have different plug types.
Local Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs, like greeting with a kiss on both cheeks.
Nightlife: Explore the vibrant nightlife scene, including bars, jazz clubs, and rooftop lounges.
Bike Rentals: Consider renting a bike to explore the city's bike-friendly lanes and paths but be careful of traffic!
Paris Pass: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Paris Pass can save you money and time.
Hidden Gems: Seek out hidden gems like the charming village of Montmartre, the secret gardens of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or the lesser-known museums like Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature.
Travel Apps: Download helpful travel apps for maps, public transportation, and translation.
Visit a Patisserie: Don't miss indulging in delicious pastries and macarons at a local patisserie.
Explore Different Neighborhoods: Each district in Paris has its unique charm, so venture beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden treasures.
Learn Basic Metro Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with common metro etiquette, such as giving up seats for the elderly or pregnant women.
Enjoy Street Performers: Street performers often entertain near popular sites like the Eiffel Tower, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Picasso Museum: If you're an art lover, don't miss the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous artist.
Bookshops: Visit iconic bookshops like Shakespeare and Company for a literary experience.
Sainte-Chapelle: Admire the breathtaking stained glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle.
Versailles Fountain Show: If visiting Versailles, check if the Fountain Show is running, as it's a beautiful spectacle.
SAFETY TIPS
Stay Aware: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, to avoid pickpockets.
Use a Money Belt: Consider wearing a money belt to keep your valuables secure.
Keep Important Documents Safe: Carry photocopies of your passport and other important documents, leaving the originals in a secure location like a hotel safe.
Lock Your Accommodation: Lock your hotel room or Airbnb when you're inside and use the hotel safe for valuables.
Avoid Late-Night Solo Walks: It's best to avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas late at night.
Beware of Scams: Be cautious of common scams, such as people asking for donations or trying to distract you while an accomplice steals your belongings. eg the ring trick or girls with clipboards - pickpockets!
Use Reputable Transportation: Stick to licensed taxis and well-known ride-sharing services like Uber.
Metro Etiquette: Be aware of metro etiquette and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded trains.
ATM Safety: Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas, and be discreet when withdrawing cash.
Emergency Numbers: Know the local emergency numbers, such as 112 (European emergency number) or 17 (police).
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers theft, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
Avoid Street Gambling: Be cautious of street gambling games, as they are often rigged to take your money.
Cross Streets Safely: Follow pedestrian signals and use designated crosswalks when crossing streets.
Public Transportation: Use public transportation, like the Metro, which is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings. especially if you are wearing a backpack.
Language: Learn a few basic French phrases, as it can be helpful in emergencies or asking for assistance.
Solo Travel: If traveling solo, share your itinerary with someone you trust and check in with them regularly.
Be Cautious with Drinks: Keep an eye on your drinks in bars and clubs to prevent tampering.
