With its cobblestone streets, flower shops and chocolateries, it might seem that Paris was built to satisfy the romantic yearnings in every girl's heart. It is a city of magic, where the sun rises over sandy facades and secret gardens and sets in the Seine, its light bathing the world in a dusty glow. In Paris, no treat is too sinful, not even on a workday; it's a place for long, leisurely strolls, impromptu dips into the theatre for a classic film, and evening trips to the Turkish baths — a place where every day deserves a morning pain au chocolat, an afternoon tea and a night cap to boot.
Whether you're picnicking in any of the city's verdant parks, gallery hopping the Marais, or wining and dining on steak frites and Kir Royal with views over the river, a Parisian sojourn will charm even the toughest cynic.
Why make breakfast at home when every city block is a smörgasboard of the world's most luscious delights? From your quaint hotel room in the 10th arrondissement, today's haven for hipster cafes and low-key modern bistros, take a stroll toward the Canal Saint Martin and pick up a cafe crème à emporter (to go) from Ten Belles. Don't drink it all in one sip — it must be saved for a taste of heaven at La Boulangerie Des Pains et Des Idées, just across the water. You'll never find a flakier pain au chocolat, or a richer chausson aux pommes.
Once you've had your dose, stroll past La Place de la République and into the Marais, past the art galleries and clothing boutiques to the Centre Pompidou. The largest-ever retrospective of works by American artist Cy Twombly won't disappoint, and a quick espresso pick-me-up in the museum's 6th floor Café Panoramique offers stunning aerial views of the city. Culture fix complete, it's time to eat again. Continue through the Marais and wander down the historic streets of the Jewish quarter, with its Kosher bakeries and falafel sellers. But don't let them entice you: Miznon makes the best lamb kebab sandwich in the city, served with fresh cilantro and herbs in a warm pita. You'll walk it off on your way toward the Seine River.
Crossing the Pont Marie bridge will take you to the narrow streets of the Île Saint-Louis, home of Berthillon, the grand-dame of French ice cream. Don't mind the line; it's worth the wait. Next stop is La Mosquée de Paris, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, for a Moroccan mint tea and a relaxing Hammam: take a dip in the Turkish baths or just enjoy a steam. When you're ready to meet the world again, head back up the hill past La Pantheon and down to the stunning Luxembourg Gardens, which have inspired the likes of Claude Monet and Ernest Hemingway. Before you go in, grab picnic treats at La Coopérative laitiere du Beaufortain, where they offer farmer cheeses, charcuterie, and jams — as well as bottles of wine. On sunny days, the garden can be crowded, but once you've found your spot on the grass it's yours for hours. Reclining lawn chairs placed around the large central fountain are just the ticket for a cat-nap.
As the sun sets, you can leave the garden on the Northwestern corner and hit the Rue de Rennes for some of the city's best shopping. Don't miss the chic Bon Marché, the world's oldest department store, housed in a gorgeous Art Nouveau building featuring ironwork by Gustave Eiffel. For dinner, armed with all your purchases, you won't want to go far: La Rotonde Montparnasse is a French classic. Start with foie gras and escargots in herbed butter, and finish the meal with a Tarte Tatin. Sweet and rich, served with a dollop of crème fraiche, it's the fitting end to a perfect Parisian day.
High-quality coffee bar and cafe along the Canal Saint Martin, selling home-baked pastries and sandwiches.
Open exclusively on weekdays, come for Escargots à la pistache and petit pain rolls.
The Parisian outpost of Israeli chef Eyal Shani’s Tel Aviv restaurant serves the best lamb-kebab pita in the city.
Unanimously considered the best homemade, small batch ice-cream in Paris.
This farmer-cooperative-run shop is a haven for cheese and charcuterie lovers.
Cozy Latin Quarter bistro historically visited by the likes of Picasso, Hemingway and Matisse, known for its traditional French cuisine.
Located a short walk from Les Invalides in the 7th arrondissement, the chic 5-star hotel has 67 loft-like rooms with New Nordic touches.
A 3-star hotel in the hip 10th arrondissement with quirky Parisian charm and art-deco furnishings and retro touches.
Young, affordable and designed by Philippe Starck, this casual hotel features a pizzeria and a rooftop bar.
The city's boldest center for contemporary art and design, housed in a striking building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.
A wide, bustling street in the heart of the Latin Quarter, chockablock with boutiques, antique and jewelry shops.
One of the largest mosques in France, serving authentic Moroccan treats on a tiled terrace and featuring traditional Hammam baths.
Expanses, fountains, and sculpture gardens offer a peaceful oasis from city life.
