How To Spend A Day In Paris…
Imagine spending a day in the enchanting city of Paris, where every cobblestone street whispers tales of history, and every pastry promises a slice of heaven. As someone who once called this magical city home, I can't help but share my ideal itinerary for a day in the City of Light. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning friend, join me on a journey to explore the Paris I know and love, filled with delicious pastries, charming neighborhoods, and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.
Morning Along The Seine
Every day in Paris should start with a beautiful, buttery pastry. My go-to spot is Boulangerie Jean-Noel Julien. Their pastries never disappoint. If they have a Berry Crumble out, get a slice; you won’t regret it. Otherwise, a pain au chocolat never hurts!
Then I would walk 2 blocks south to enjoy breakfast with a view of the Seine.
Admire Le Samartaine
This stunning department store was closed when I lived here but has since re-opened, and it is spectacular and in a perfect location. It is a shopping haven with beauty products, perfumes, and a fun gift shop. Also, you can go to the top for a beautiful view of the gold-leaf mosaic art that wraps around the walls.
Can’t Miss Shopping In The 3rd
Loveramics - Beautiful, contemporary Japanese ceramics in every color under the sun.
Fleux - Down the block is a chain of shops under the Fleux umbrella that are beautifully curated concept stores with great lifestyle pieces.
Arket - Part of the H&M group, but these shops are rare to find and have exquisite, essential contemporary pieces that are timeless.
Explore Le Marais
By far my favorite arrondissement, Le Marais is the perfect area to get lost and explore. Take a break and relax in Place de Vosges and just people watch for a bit.
Then head to L’As du Falafel, for the best falafel of your life (side of fries, don’t forget!). Eat inside or queue up outside and eat on the benches around the corner. Either line moves fast.
Green Spaces and Museums
Walk across the river to explore Luxembourg Gardens, where you can find a cozy spot to read a book or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere next to the Medici Fountain.
Next, weave your way through the streets down to Musee D’Orsay to admire the largest impressionist art collection housed in an old Beaux Arts train station.
Always Time For Aperò
Before dinner, grab a glass of wine at an outdoor cafe on the Left Bank to unwind before dinner.
Parisian Flair at Petit Chatelet
Without fail, this is the one restaurant I always make time for since 2010. It is a super small spot, so be sure to book ahead! If it is nice out, sit outside and admire the view of Notre Dame in the background. The escargot there can not be missed!
Night Stroll: Music on the Seine
After dinner, take a leisurely walk through Ile Saint Louis. Keep an ear out for live music on Pont Saint-Louis, and just sit and enjoy a day well spent in Paris.
There you have it – a perfect day in Paris awaits. Bon voyage! 🇫🇷❤️
