Paris: Rest When You Return – A Short Trip Itinerary

Arriving early from the United States means you’ll likely be a bit groggy when you land. After checking into your hotel, find a local café to enjoy a really hot, fabulous café américain while nibbling on a warm, flaky croissant or some delectable eggs. Start your day at Café de Flore or Les Deux Margots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where literary icons like Pablo Picasso and Simone de Beauvoir — or even Emily from Emily in Paris — once spent their time.

Next, take a leisurely walk along the Seine towards the Île de la Cité. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral, savor gelato at Berthillon and be sure to explore the stunning Saint-Chapelle with its breathtaking stained-glass windows. Don’t miss Shakespeare & Company bookstore for a rare find before heading to the Musee D’Orsay for some artistic culture. If you’re still energetic, check out Le Bon Marche or some luxury shopping. Finally, relax at a local café for an afternoon apéritif. Watch the world go by before returning to your hotel for a short nap before dinner.

You’ve undoubtedly built up an appetite! Stroll through Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Restaurant Allard — reservations required — by Alain Ducasse, a bistro established in 1932. It offers a warm, intimate atmosphere with attentive service, making you feel like family. The outstanding food will make you wonder where it’s been all your life. Walk off dinner back to your hotel and catch some Z’s. Tomorrow is a busy day!

On each of my trips to Paris, the Eiffel Tower was a must-see. When my husband and I visited, we dined at Le Jules Verne, one of the most opulent dining experiences we’d had. The last time I visited, my 18-year-old daughter and 73-year-old mother opted to skip lunch there but enjoyed the early morning visit to the Tower — be sure to reserve tickets well in advance — and found a perfect Instagram-worthy spot to capture both close-up and full-length pictures.

We then walked along the river to the Louvre and after some time there, we were famished. We made our way to Angelina for a light lunch, delectable sweets and perhaps the best hot chocolate we’ve ever had, complete with decadent whipped cream — an absolute must, even in July.

Next, we explored Le Marais, meandering through the streets and artisan shops, ultimately visiting the Picasso Museum. We then returned to the hotel to freshen up before dinner. For a traditional brasserie with deep history — established in 1927 — head to La Coupole in Montparnasse. With its cheeky waiters, rich wood accents and soaring ceilings, this place is not to be missed. The menu is in French, but the staff speaks fluent English. Just don’t order the Andouillette … it is not andouille sausage, though it looked like it could be when it arrived. I assure you: it is not.

After breakfast at the hotel, take Le Metro Line 4 (green) to Barbès-Rochechouart, then transfer to Line 2 (blue) to Anvers. From Anvers, it’s a short walk to Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. Wander the cobblestone streets and wait out the tourists at Le Consulat café and the pink-painted, ivy-covered La Maison Rose, before heading up to the basilica. The sheer size of Sacré-Cœur is awe-inspiring, and the view of Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the distance is magical. You are instantly transcended into a bohemian vibe, as the sounds of musicians with accordions play "La Vie En Rose." Be sure to purchase tickets for Sacré-Cœur in advance to avoid the long line.

Descend the hill to the carousel and explore the charming shops and restaurants that don’t require reservations. If time permits, visit the iconic Le Moulin Rouge.

Depending on your energy levels, you can take the Metro back or head to La Place de la Concorde and Le Champs Elysees for a long walk toward the Arc de Triumph. You can find yourself amid some of the most high-end shopping in the world such as Hermès and Louis Vuitton – prepare to wait in line to enter these fashion meccas.

Next, head to the famed Galleries Lafayette — one of my favorite department stores. Don’t forget to look up at the extraordinary ceiling in the center of the building. It’s extraordinary.

After a rest back at your hotel, make your way to Bofinger for dinner. This institution offers Alsatian specialties like sauerkraut and seafood platters in a lavish Belle Époque brasserie. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The following day will bring you to the airport, marking the end of your three-day Parisian adventure.