Curator’s statement
Paris was my first European adventure, a trip I took with my teenage daughter over Spring Break. We arrived eager to practice our high school French, but our efforts were quickly met with warm smiles and effortless English from the locals. From that moment on, Paris felt both welcoming and endlessly exciting — a perfect introduction to Europe. Whether you're a gourmand in search of the perfect bite, a family seeking unforgettable experiences, a couple looking for romance or a culture lover eager to soak in art and history, this guide will help you discover your perfect Parisian escape.
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Things to do in Paris

For the Gourmand
For food lovers, Paris is a dream. Start your mornings with a flaky, buttery pastry from Mamiche, a beloved neighborhood bakery known for its perfect croissants and rustic loaves. Or visit Du Pain et des Idées, where the famed Pain des Amis will make you rethink everything you know about bread. For an intimate bistro experience, Juveniles offers an outstanding selection of natural wines paired with thoughtful, seasonal dishes. If you’re craving a cozy, Provençal atmosphere, Chez Janou is the place to indulge in a steaming pot of rich, velvety chocolate mousse. Want to bring a taste of Paris home? La Cuisine Paris offers hands-on cooking classes where you can learn to master classic French techniques. Stroll through Rue Cler, one of the city’s most charming market streets, to sample fresh produce, artisan cheese and decadent pastries. For those who love to cook, E. Dehillerin is a must-visit — this legendary kitchen supply store has been outfitting chefs for over a century. And for charcuterie lovers, Maison Vérot serves up some of the finest pâtés and terrines in the city, crafted with generations of expertise.
For the culture
For culture lovers, Paris offers a feast of art, history and architecture. Musée d’Orsay, housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, is home to world-renowned Impressionist masterpieces from Monet, Van Gogh and Degas. For contemporary art enthusiasts, the Fondation Louis Vuitton is a must-visit, with its striking Frank Gehry-designed building and cutting-edge exhibitions. Beneath the city streets, the Catacombs of Paris hold a haunting yet fascinating history, with miles of tunnels lined with the bones of millions. The Shoah Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the Holocaust, provides an essential and deeply personal look at France’s past. For breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro Gardens offer the perfect vantage point, framed by elegant fountains and grand staircases. And for a classic Parisian experience, the Jardin des Tuileries is an idyllic place to stroll, where manicured gardens, historic statues and charming cafés provide a perfect retreat in the heart of the city.
For couples
For couples, Paris is effortlessly romantic, with dreamy strolls, intimate dinners and magical moments at every turn. Wander hand-in-hand through Le Marais, where historic charm meets trendy boutiques, cozy cafés and hidden courtyards perfect for getting lost together. Along the Canal Saint-Martin, you’ll find a quieter, more local side of Paris, with picturesque bridges and tree-lined paths ideal for a relaxed afternoon. For a night of passion and spectacle, the legendary Moulin Rouge dazzles with its high-energy cabaret, extravagant costumes and sparkling champagne. If you prefer something more refined, an evening at the Palais Garnier to see the ballet is an unforgettable experience. With the opera house’s gilded ceilings and opulent décor setting the perfect romantic scene. Nothing says love like the Eiffel Tower at night, best enjoyed on a Seine River cruise, where you can toast to your love as the city’s lights dance on the water. And for a fairytale ending, climb to Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre at sunset, where breathtaking views of Paris make for a perfect, unforgettable moment.
For families and first-timers
Paris is a fantastic destination for families, with exciting attractions, kid-friendly museums and magical experiences that will delight all ages. A trip to Disneyland Paris is a must for little ones and Disney lovers alike, where fairy tales come to life just outside the city. For a fun-filled day closer to the center, Jardin d'Acclimatation offers amusement park rides, a petting zoo and hands-on activities in a lush, park-like setting. If your kids love books, a visit to the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookstore is a great way to inspire young readers, with its cozy reading nooks and magical atmosphere. No visit to Paris is complete without stopping by Notre-Dame, where kids can marvel at the iconic gargoyles and climb the towers for a spectacular view. For an exciting mix of history and adventure, the Arc de Triomphe and a walk down the Champs-Élysées provide the perfect blend of grandeur and sightseeing fun. The Louvre is a must for families, with kid-friendly scavenger hunts and famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace. And for a breathtaking finale, step inside the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, where dazzling stained-glass windows will leave kids and adults alike in awe.
Day trips
While Paris itself offers endless wonders, a short journey beyond the city reveals even more beauty, history and adventure. Whether you’re looking for grand palaces, charming villages or coastal marvels, these five destinations make for perfect day trips from Paris.
Versailles: Just a short train ride from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a dazzling display of opulence, from the gilded Hall of Mirrors to the sprawling gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Spend the day wandering through royal apartments, rowing a boat on the Grand Canal or picnicking in the gardens where Marie Antoinette once escaped court life.
Giverny: Art lovers shouldn’t miss Claude Monet’s home and gardens, where the inspiration for his iconic water lily paintings comes to life. Wander through the lush flowerbeds, cross the famous Japanese bridge and soak in the beauty of the artist’s carefully curated paradise. The small village of Giverny is also worth exploring, with its charming cafés and Impressionist art museum.
Lille: A hidden gem in northern France, Lille offers a unique blend of French and Flemish influences. Explore the picturesque Old Town with its pastel-colored buildings, visit the Palais des Beaux Arts, France’s second-largest art museum and indulge in local specialties like carbonnade flamande (beef stew) and gaufres (waffles). The lively markets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make Lille a delightful escape from Paris.
Mont Saint-Michel: Rising from the tides like a fairytale castle, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most breathtaking sights. The medieval abbey perched atop the rocky island offers stunning views of the surrounding bay, while the winding streets below are filled with charming shops and cafés. Time your visit with the tides to witness the incredible transformation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Champagne: Wine lovers will want to take a sparkling detour to the Champagne region, where you can tour prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Taittinger. Visit the charming city of Reims, home to the magnificent Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral. Or explore the rolling vineyards of Épernay, where you can sip world-class bubbly right from the source.
Each of these destinations offers a unique perspective on French history, culture and natural beauty. Making them perfect additions to your Parisian adventure.
Places to eat & drink in Paris

Paris is a city where every meal feels like a celebration, from decadent pastries to Michelin-starred dining. Whether you're in the mood for a long, leisurely brunch, a casual crêpe or an elegant dinner with a view, these spots offer some of the best dining experiences in the city.
Angelina: A Parisian institution, Angelina is famous for its luxurious chocolat chaud (hot chocolate). A rich, velvety delight that feels like drinking pure melted chocolate. Pair it with their signature Mont-Blanc pastry, a perfect combination of meringue, whipped cream and chestnut cream.
Le Ciel de Paris: Located on the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower, Le Ciel de Paris offers one of the most spectacular dining views in the city, with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop. The modern French cuisine is just as impressive as the scenery, making this a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Crêperie Josselin: If you're craving authentic Breton crêpes, Crêperie Josselin is the place to go. This cozy, bustling spot serves up perfectly crisp, buttery galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes). Stuffed with cheese, eggs, mushrooms and more, along with sweet crêpes that are impossible to resist.
L'As du Fallafel: A must-visit in the Marais, L’As du Fallafel is famous for its overflowing falafel sandwiches. Packed with crispy chickpea fritters, tangy cabbage slaw, creamy tahini and spicy harissa. The line can be long, but the reward is one of the best (and most affordable) meals in Paris.
Ladurée: The name Ladurée is synonymous with macarons, and visiting one of their elegant tea salons is a Parisian rite of passage. Enjoy a delicate selection of flavors, from classic pistachio and raspberry to seasonal creations, alongside tea or a glass of champagne.
Parcelle: A hidden gem in the Marais, Parcelle is an intimate café and wine bar offering fresh, seasonal dishes with a focus on high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or an early evening glass of natural wine with a cheese and charcuterie board.
Fontaine de Mars: If you’re looking for classic French bistro fare, Fontaine de Mars, near the Eiffel Tower is a charming choice. This historic restaurant, known for its traditional Southwestern cuisine, serves rich and comforting dishes like duck confit, cassoulet and perfect steak-frites in an old-world setting.
From cozy cafés to fine dining with a view, these spots showcase the best of Parisian gastronomy, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Need to know
No matter your travel style, Paris has something special to offer. Create unforgettable memories in the City of Light. Whether you’re indulging in world-class cuisine, exploring iconic landmarks or simply soaking in the magic of Parisian life.

Travel Advisor
Angela Tucker

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