TRAVEL GUIDES
OUR GUIDE TO PARIS
"La Ville Lumière," is city to re-discover again and again, in different moments of life. Whether you've spent years in its embrace or are just beginning your journey, it's a place that keeps evolving every day and will never stop surprising you.
The demand for a Paris Guide has been incredibly high, and we've heard your calls.
Having both lived in Paris, Ines first and Nils later, we've had the privilege of immersing ourselves in the intricate Parisian life.
As we sifted through our extensive list of Paris spots, the large amount of places on our list quickly became overwhelming– over 200 gems worth sharing. So, to start quickly and make it easy for you, we've opted for a compact guide featuring our current favorites.
Our selection may not encompass the most famous tourist spots, as we believe those are readily accessible elsewhere. Instead, these are the very places we would personally bring our friends to when wanting to show them the city we've come to love.
Please note that this guide will evolve over time, reflecting our ongoing discoveries and evolving preferences. Stay tuned!
Where to Stay
Falling head over heels for Château Voltaire is practically unavoidable. Although the hotel is relatively knew, it has quickly established itself as a classic Parisian gem. If you're looking for a place that is well located and meets high standards without the grandeur of a palace or a the buzz of a trendy hotel, Château Voltaire is the perfect choice.
75001, Paris
From 500€ per night
We know, Hotel Amour is far from being a secret hidden gem. You've likely come across its iconic façade on Instagram - with its unmistakable "AMOUR" neon letters. Still, this boutique hotel is worth mentioning as it stands out for its uniqueness. We’ve been for dinner, drinks, and purchased the "Amour" glasses which have found a place in our home.
75009, Paris
HOTEL AMOUR, HOTEL
From 180€ per night
It took six years to transform a 700-year-old landmark into this new hideaway in the heart of the Marais. With an eclectic vibe and eye-candy concept, this place feels like its taken straight out of a Wes Anderson movie. The unique charm extends to two underground floors, home to a luxurious spa and a captivating pool with a dreamy adorned ceiling.
75004, Paris
LE GRAND MAZARIN, HOTEL
From 500€ per night
At the coveted Place des Vosges, you'll discover a massive wooden door that will usher you into an intimate courtyard. Once inside, it will feel more like a cozy guesthouse than a standard hotel. With just 12 rooms, wooden beams, velvet fabrics and candles it's a dreamy escape for the fall-winter seasons. In 2019, AD magazine named it most beautiful hotel.
75004, Paris
COURS DES VOSGES, HOTEL
From 600€ per night
75009, Paris
From 120€ per night
On the edge of Montmartre, right where boulevard de Rochechouart hums with Pigalle’s eccentric charm, this little Art Deco hideaway was our home for one night. The eclectic neighborhood blends risqué history with a hip revival, but inside, it’s all comfort and thoughtful design. The hotel is small, with balconies overlooking the Sacré-Coeur and a rooftop oasis above the lively streets.
Balzac Hotel reopened in June 2024 following a complete transformation by Festen, who reimagined this iconic property with a refined and understated homage to the golden age of the Champs Élysées. Located steps away from the world’s most famous avenue, the Balzac Hotel is exclusive and elegant in every detail. The bar is also opened to non-guests until midnight - worth a visit.
75008, Paris
HOTEL BALZAC
From 400€ per night
HOTEL DES GRANDS VOYAGEURS
75006, Paris
A fantastic new addition to Saint-Germain, having opened earlier this year. Superbly located in this iconic neighborhood, it stands out for its excellent value for money. We recommended it to a family member who stayed recently, and they had only great things to say: spacious bedrooms, Diptyque products in the bathrooms, nicely designed interiors, comfortable beds, and friendly, attentive staff. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, this hotel is definitely worth considering!
From 150€ per night
LE GRAND HÔTEL CAYRÉ
75007, Paris
A new addition to our list and where we’d stay next for its unbeatable location, style, and price-quality balance, the Grand Hôtel Cayré is a gem reborn. Once a gathering place for intellectuals in the 1920s—when Saint-Germain-des-Prés was the heart of publishing houses, jazz clubs, and artist ateliers—the hotel has reinvented itself while preserving its Left Bank soul.
From 200€ per night
What to do
Housed in two historic mansions, it features an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions that offer a fascinating journey through the evolution of Paris from medieval times to the present day. It's a must-visit for those eager to explore the rich tapestry of Parisian history and culture.
MUSÉE CARNAVALET, MUSEUM
75003, Paris
A must-visit! Nestled within a charming 18th-century mansion and surrounded by a serene sculpture garden, the museum showcases the works of the celebrated French sculptor. You can admire iconic sculptures such as "The Thinker" and "The Kiss" in a tranquil and picturesque setting. We used to go to the gardens to read.
MUSÉE RODIN, MUSEUM
75007, Paris
Musée Zadkine is Ines' favourite. You'll discover a fascinating collection of pieces of art created by the renowned artist Ossip Zadkine, a prominent sculptor known for his distinctive sculptural works that often incorporated abstract and cubist elements, reflecting the avant-garde artistic trends of his time.
MUSÉE ZADKINE, MUSEUM
75006, Paris
Jardin du Luxembourg holds a special place in our hearts as we used to live close by. Our favorite morning ritual was to pick up pastries from Cyril Lignac and then head to the garden to enjoy our breakfast. This historic jardin is so meticulously taken care of with colorful flowerbeds, small paths with statues and regal fountains.
JARDINS DU LUXEMBOURG
75006, Paris
Galerie Chenel is the Parisian shrine for antique pieces. It specializes in archaeological objects, with particular emphasis on Roman arts. Every year, it organizes many thematic exhibitions in numerous international fairs. It sells ancient sculptures to some of the world’s most important institutions (the Louvre , the Met, the British Museum…).
GALERIE CHENEL, GALLERY
75007, Paris
This gallery is a space for creation, transmission, and sharing, reflecting the beauty and depth of human creativity. It takes its inspiration from the profound concept of "mono no aware," which embodies the idea of finding harmony between the spirit and the form of things, emphasizing the connection between the ephemeral and the eternal.
LE SENTIMENT DES CHOSES, GALLERY
75003, Paris
Ogata is a temple of Japanese art de vivre hidden within a private mansion in the Marais. Their restaurant embodies the philosophy of seeking "beauty and balance in all things" with an omakase spirit. It is a place for those who appreciate Japanese living with an on-site art gallery and boutique focusing on beauty, balance, and seasonal perfection.
OGATA, CONCEPT SPACE
75003, Paris
Ofr. is an independent arts bookshop, gallery, and publisher that operates like a drop-in center for the city’s artists and dreamers. There’s probably an exhibition on in the gallery out the back. Or a sale of vintage rugs. Later a vernissage might morph into an improvised block party. The best place to find books of fashion, design, photography, architecture…
OFR., BOOK STORE & GALLERY
75003, Paris
Merci is a one-of-a-kind concept store in Paris's Marais district. If you visit, don’t be surprised if you find yourself spending hours exploring its eclectic mix of fashion, homeware, art, and more. The store's interior combines modern and vintage elements and there’s also a very nice café (for the impatient companion that doesn’t like shopping)...
MERCI, CONCEPT STORE
75003, Paris
The Paris Opera House, is a stunning masterpiece. Given its immense popularity, booking in advance for operas or ballets is essential. During your visit, don't forget to look up at the Marc Chagall-painted ceiling – it's an artistic marvel. PS: there’s no strict dress code for visitors but you might want to dress smart-casual for a performance.
PALAIS GARNIER, BALLET OR OPERA
75009, Paris
A small Versailles on the Place de la Concorde. Parisians are well-acquainted with this architectural gem that graces the northeastern corner of the Place de la Concorde. The history, however, remains a lesser-known treasure. We recommend taking the tour to explore this iconic landmark that also stands as a testament to the history of France.
HOTEL DE LA MARINE, MUSEUM
75008, Paris
Visiting the Fondation Giacometti is always a treat. The institut showcases its remarkable collection of painted plasters, featuring iconic works like Stele, Women of Venice, and Figurine in a Cage. This exhibitions unveil a deeply personal and lesser-known side of Giacometti’s artistry, highlighting his unique approach to blending sculpture and painting.
INSTITUT GIACOMETTI
75014, Paris
Please note that this guide does not cover all the major tourist attractions, but for first-timers, here are the landmarks you shouldn’t miss in the City of Lights:
Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Musée d'Orsay, Musée de l'Orangerie, Île Saint Louis, Place Vendôme, Centre Pompidou, Les Invalides, fondation Louis Vuitton.
What to Taste
75007, Paris
€€€
Le Basilic has one of the nicest terraces in Paris, with comfortable chairs, well-set tables and a wonderful location in a non-crowded square. They offer a concise menu with French dishes like volaille aux morilles, saint jacques, and coquillettes. We highly recommend starting with the truffle tarama, and get a classic French crispy lettuce on the side.
75012, Paris
€€€
The best service we’ve ever experienced in the city! A good friend recommended this brasserie, and we decided to dine there one early evening just before a nearby concert. We wished we had more time because it was such a fantastic experience with delicious food and wine. We're eagerly anticipating our next visit.
75007, Paris
€€€
From a newbie to a classic, la Fontaine de Mars exudes Paris tradition. Duck confit, cassoulet, fries… there’s a particular homage to the southwestern cuisine. It has earned its place as an institution and has served famous visitors (including Obama). So, it might not be a hidden treasure, but with it is so charming, we couldn't resist adding it to our list.
75011, Paris
€€€
No reservations taken here, just like at the other Septime restaurants. But, the wait is absolutely worthwhile! The setting is rustic, unpretentious yet stylish, mirroring the character of the cuisine. The menu has great seafood options for sharing. We recently went for a lunch, seated at the bar with a white wine. The perfect Sunday plan!
75006, Paris
€€
Our absolute top pick for a cozy tête-à-tête. In the heart of Saint Germain, this petite gem offers small plates paired with fantastic wines. The atmosphere is cheerful with friendly waitstaff – it's totally our kind of place. The concept is straightforward: select from a range of meats, fish, vegetables, and don't forget dessert. Our favourite? The riz au lait!
75011, Paris
€€€
If you're in search of the perfect place to kick off your evening with friends (tables accommodate up to 6), enjoy small plates for sharing, cocktails, groove to a vinyl DJ set in the background, and stay on as the place transforms into a relaxed yet lively dance bar, all in the midst of a burgeoning artsy neighborhood, then this is the place for you!
75002, Paris
€€€
Just great! We are big dinning-at-the-bar-counter fans. This unique restaurant offers a great open kitchen experience with a menu that combines the flavors of Israeli dishes with a French twist.The atmosphere is casual but be sure to book your table in advance to secure your spot in this culinary gem.
75007, Paris
€€€
The Parisian spirit in a simple decor. The very famous chef Jais serves the palates of foodies from the 7th arrondissement. You can also savor the culinary creations of the same chef at Le Petit Celestin, conveniently located near the Seine and Ile Saint Louis.
75010, Paris
€€
Vivant 2 is an intimate dining experience set on a candlelit marble counter. It's all about innovative dishes that evolve with the chef's inspiration and the changing seasons. On the menu: a zesty beef carpaccio, a flatbread topped with bacon and potatoes, an octopus dish paired with cucumber. If you're a group of four, be sure to ask for the table at the back for a more private setting. For an unforgettable experience with just two, stick to the bar counter.
75001, Paris
€€
L'Epi d'Or is our go-to place in Paris whenever we have guests in town. With a concise menu that shifts based on the day of the week, this charming bistrot offers a small but all good selection of bistrot recipes. Its central location and and cleverly old-fashioned rustic décor make it the perfect introduction to the city for our visitors.
75006, Paris
€€
We're quite particular about Italian cuisine, and after several letdowns in Paris, we discovered Localino. It offers a modest but good selection of pastas, panini, and charcuterie. While it can be a bit pricey, the comfort of authentic Italian flavors is worth it. Other mentions to consider include Racines, Niko Romito at Bulgari Hotel, and Le Cherche-Midi.
75006, Paris
€€€
This small restaurant is located in the most charming street of Paris, just next to the square of église Saint-Sulpice. Their precise and flavorful bistro-style cuisine features dishes like ris de veau and succulent roasted milk-fed lamb chops paired with grilled vegetables. Très français!
75011, Paris
€€€
This celebrated bistro has been serving up traditional French cuisine since 1908. Recently, Cyril Lignac (our favourite patissier!) has revitalized this classic establishment, bringing a fresh look and a fresh carte! The menu now features a sea-inspired twist with Japanese influenced dishes like incredible melt-in-your-mouth sashimis and lobster rolls.
75003, Paris
€€€
This place’s charm lies in its three distinctive ambiances—the lively bar, the sophisticated restaurant, and the cool cave below. If you want to explore the different ambiances, we’d recommend selecting your wine downstairs for a first drink at the cave and bringing it back upstairs to pair it with your meal. Perfect for a vibrant social setting or a romantic evening.
75006, Paris
€€
The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic. While you wait for your table, the lively buzz adds to the anticipation. The good small plates make it a favorite among locals. We couldn't help but savor the huge butter they serve with bread before the arrival of our dishes… Try also: l’Avant Comptoir de la Terre (meat) and l’Avant Comptoir de la Mer (sea).
75007, Paris
€
As we stumbled one day upon Boucherie Grégoire with some time to spare, we decided to stop in for a quick drink. The venue was a transformed old butcher shop, now serving an exceptional selection of wines. We then discovered that this charming spot was the brainchild of none other than Michelin-starred chef Antonin Bonnet.
75011, Paris
€€€
Chambre Noire is a hip wine spot rapidly spreading through Paris's East. With a minimalist façade, it offers unique wines and a cozy atmosphere. Their range includes Majorcan reds, Austrian gems, and even feminist German wines – all at reasonable prices. Snack on tortilla, anchovies, and ricotta tartines as you sip. All our friends loved it, and us too!
75011, Paris
€€
The concept is simple: ice cream and natural wines. The spot draws in a young, trendy crowd who don't mind waiting in line. Once the bouncer grants you entry (yes, there's one), you can enjoy your treats indoors or, if space is limited, opt for outdoor seating on the floor. We went for the olive oil ice cream paired with a German orange wine, a delightful surprise.
75002, Paris
€€
When we requested dessert at Hando (a handroll bar), we tried the most exceptional mochis we'd ever tasted. These were the traditional kind, not the ice-cream variety, and they were out of this world !! When we learned that these heavenly treats were freshly sourced daily from Tomo, we eagerly set our alarm clock to head there the next morning.
75003, Paris
€
Head to Partisan Cafe for a selection of lighter roast coffees, matcha lattes, and a daily dose of people-watching. The café attracts a trendy and cosmopolitan crowd, predominantly youthful and fashion-savvy (we even spotted a famous model casually enjoying her time with her family on our last visit). Sit down or grab it to go on a stroll towards Le Marais.
75003, Paris
€
Alain’s sandwiches are a hot ticket in town, and there's no escaping the queue, no matter the time of day. But let us tell you, it's absolutely worth the wait! These delectable creations can be savored in two fantastic locations: at the Marché des Enfants Rouges, a vibrant market brimming with diverse food stalls, or at their main shop nearby.
A new must-visit addition to Paris’s dining scene. It opened this year and already earning a reputation as one of the city’s most elegant restaurants. Housed in a building dating back to 1823, the restaurant celebrates French culinary classics with a touch of New York influence, all set against a stunningly chic backdrop. They say stepping through its doors feels like traveling back in time to a 19th-century lounge, with dim lighting, luxurious interiors… we look forward to visiting!
75008, Paris
LA RENOMMEE
€€€€
75007, Paris
€€€
This wasn’t on our list before as it felt a bit too touristy to include. But honestly… It’s one of our favorites. We used to live on the same street and have spent countless evenings there, so we know firsthand how great the food and ambiance are. We’ve recommended it to so many people that we just decided: who cares if it’s touristy? This place truly deserves a spot on the list! Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.
75002, Paris
€€
A tiny restaurant with a tiny menu that focuses on one thing: ramen. The portions are very generous, the flavors are incredible, and you can even customize the heaviness of your broth for the perfect umami experience. No reservations, often a queue, but worth it for great ramen in Paris’s Japanese district. The vibes are very authentic and you will be welcomed with shouts included!
This is just a glimpse of our personal favourites. If you’re looking for more Parisian classics, don’t miss Aux Deux Amis, Septime, Le Voltaire, Le Thoumieux, La Tour d’Argent, L’Ami Jean, La Coupole, Bouche, Chez Georges, Racines
75006, Paris
€€
La Palette is a historic café on the way to the Left Bank and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris' most fashionable area. Once frequented by artists like Cézanne and Picasso, it’s a perfect spot to sit outside and watch stylish Parisians stroll by. The real treat is the boards of cheese and charcuterie, piled high with delicious options.
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