A Day In Paris: an Insider’s Guide
With the Summer 2024 Olympics held in the City of Lights, I thought a Day in Paris itinerary was in order. The beautiful city has a plethora of hidden gems and secret gardens to explore. As well as buttery croissants and photo ops. In this article I’ll share a detail guide of how to spend a day in Paris. Stay until the end for three different accommodations that I highly recommend.
Morning:
1. Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées: Start your day with breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées, a renowned bakery known for its artisanal bread and pastries. Try their famous escargot pistache (pistachio snail pastry) or a traditional croissant.
2. Explore Le Marais: After breakfast, wander through the charming streets of Le Marais. Explore the area’s trendy boutiques, historic landmarks, and vibrant street art. Don’t miss the Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris.
Alternative Option
Breakfast at Angelina: Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at Angelina, a historic tearoom located near the Louvre Museum. Start your day with their famous hot chocolate, known as “L’Africain,” which is thick, rich, and utterly divine. Pair it with their signature pastries, such as the Mont-Blanc or the decadent croissants. The elegant Belle Époque ambiance of Angelina will transport you to another era, providing a truly memorable breakfast experience in Paris.
Mid-morning:
3. Visit Musée de l’Orangerie: Head to the Musée de l’Orangerie to admire Claude Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies series. This intimate museum also houses works by other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masters.
4. Photo Op at Palais-Royal: Stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Palais-Royal and capture stunning photos of the black and white striped columns known as Les Deux Plateaux by Daniel Buren. This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Alternative Option
Photo Op at Montmartre Vineyards: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to the charming Montmartre Vineyards for a unique photo opportunity. Located on the hill of Montmartre, these picturesque vineyards offer stunning views of Paris and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in the background. Capture the beauty of the vineyard’s terraced rows of grapevines against the backdrop of the city skyline. Whether you visit during sunrise or sunset, the Montmartre Vineyards provide a serene and romantic setting for memorable photographs that capture the essence of Paris.
Lunch:
5. Lunch at L’As du Fallafel: Indulge in a delicious falafel sandwich at L’As du Fallafel in the heart of Le Marais. This popular spot serves some of the best falafel in Paris, with a line often stretching down the street.
Alternative Option
After enjoying the stunning views and photo opportunities at the Montmartre Vineyards, you can head to a nearby restaurant called La Maison Rose. Located just a short walk from the Montmartre Vineyards, La Maison Rose is a charming restaurant known for its vibrant pink façade and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace, surrounded by ivy-covered walls and colorful flowers. La Maison Rose offers a menu of French classics with a modern twist, featuring dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From savory quiches to hearty salads and grilled specialties, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Plus, the restaurant’s prime location in the heart of Montmartre makes it the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploring and photographing the vineyards.
Afternoon:
6. Explore Canal Saint-Martin: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin. Admire the charming bridges, tree-lined banks, and trendy cafés that line the canal. This off-the-beaten-path neighborhood offers a glimpse of local Parisian life.
7. Pastries at Ble Sucre: Satisfy your sweet tooth with pastries from Ble Sucre. Known for their buttery croissants and delectable madeleines, this neighborhood bakery is a must-visit for pastry lovers.
Evening:
8. Dinner at Le Chateaubriand: Le Chateaubriand is a renowned bistro located in the vibrant Belleville neighborhood. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its innovative approach to French cuisine. Chef-owner Iñaki Aizpitarte creates a daily changing tasting menu inspired by seasonal ingredients and culinary creativity. Diners can expect bold flavors, unexpected combinations, and impeccable presentation in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. With its adventurous menu and laid-back ambiance, Le Chateaubriand promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the diversity and innovation of French gastronomy.
Alternative Option
Dinner at Le Comptoir du Panthéon: Le Comptoir du Panthéon is a charming bistro located near the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This cozy restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening meal. Indulge in classic French dishes prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, such as coq au vin, beef bourguignon, or duck confit. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their carefully curated selection, and don’t forget to save room for dessert! With its friendly service, authentic cuisine, and quintessentially Parisian ambiance, Le Comptoir du Panthéon promises a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of French gastronomy.
9. Live Jazz at Duc des Lombards: End your day with live jazz at Duc des Lombards. This intimate jazz club hosts performances by world-class musicians in a cozy setting, offering the perfect ambiance for a memorable evening.
Alternative Option
Sunset/Sunside: Sunset/Sunside is a renowned jazz club located in the heart of Paris’s Latin Quarter. This intimate venue hosts nightly performances by top local and international jazz artists, ranging from traditional jazz to contemporary fusion. Enjoy the cozy ambiance, excellent acoustics, and a diverse lineup of talented musicians as you unwind with a drink and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of jazz. With its central location and vibrant atmosphere, Sunset/Sunside is the perfect spot to cap off your day in Paris with an unforgettable evening of live music.
Places to Stay:
Luxury Option:
- Hôtel de Crillon: Located on Place de la Concorde, this luxurious hotel offers opulent rooms and suites, Michelin-starred dining, and a world-class spa.
Boutique Option:
- Hôtel des Grand Boulevards: Situated in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, this boutique hotel exudes Parisian charm with its stylish décor and cozy atmosphere.
Budget Option:
- Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais: Nestled in the heart of Le Marais, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations in a prime location, making it perfect for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
With this itinerary, you’ll discover a different side of Paris, from hidden gardens to local favorites and intimate jazz clubs. Enjoy your day exploring the City of Light!