Inspiring Itineraries

8am - Wake up in one of my favorite small, boutique hotels in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and head out for a café au lait and pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant) at one of my favorite pâtisseries.  

 

Head to Sainte-Chapelle, one of the most beautiful churches in the world, before the crowds start gathering.

 

10am - I would then take a stroll along the seine, stopping along the way at Shakespeare and Co. to browse among the books and maybe visit a few of the bouquinistes hoping to find a lovely vintage book or two.

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12pm - A walk from the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel through the courtyard of the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, and the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

 

Of course, lunch time means a stop at a lovely sidewalk cafe for a crêpe or croque madame with a glass of bubbly and a little time to enjoy people-watching.

 

3pm - Head up to Paris’ city on the hill: the area known as Montmartre. Still considered one of the most bohemian neighborhoods of Paris, there are plenty of shops, galleries, artist in the square, and of course, the Sacre-Cœur Basilica. Here you can enjoy one of the best views of Paris, either from the steps of the church or if you decide to climb up the 300 steps to the dome.

 

6pm - Le Marais is one of the most popular areas in Paris, especially known for its beautiful architecture, trendy art galleries and vintage shops. A good starting point is Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and also the most beautiful squares in Paris. I always start at Café Hugo for a delicious Viennese coffee. 

 

Then, go for a stroll in this charming historic quarter full of beautiful private mansions (hôtel particuliers) from the XVIIth and XVIIIth centuries, and some nice private museums like Picasso Museum. 

 

8pm - Dinner is always a big decision with so many amazing choices. If I were looking for a quick casual bite, I might stay in the Marais and walk over to the Jewish quarter for an amazing falafel on the Rue de Rosier.  However, if I am looking for a chic farm to table experience I might head back to Saint-Germain-des-Prés and one of the new amazing chefs in the area.