Parisian Opulence: A Luxurious 3-5 Day Escape to the Heart of Paris

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Advisor - Monika Norvilaite
Curated By

Monika Norvilaite

  • Arts & Culture

  • Boutique Travel

  • City Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Luxury Travel

  • Paris

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Sightseeing

Advisor - Parisian Opulence: A Luxurious 3-5 Day Escape to the Heart of Paris
Curator’s statement

Paris, the City of Light, is the ultimate destination for elegance, culture and luxury travel. Its captivating charm, rich in art, cuisine and history, draws even the most discerning travelers. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern sophistication.

Paris continually reveals new beauty and offers unforgettable, bespoke experiences that linger in memory. As a curator of luxury travel, I am inspired by Paris' ability to enchant and surprise. Making it the perfect choice for those seeking the finest in refined experiences.

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Where to stay in Paris

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Things to do in Paris

  • Private Louvre tour: Experience the world's largest art museum before opening hours, with an expert guide providing insights into masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.

  • Exclusive art gallery tour: Explore Paris' prestigious galleries with a knowledgeable art expert, including champagne tastings at select locations.

  • Behind-the-scenes fashion house visit: Gain rare access to a luxury atelier, witnessing the craftsmanship behind haute couture.

  • VIP Opera Garnier experience: Enjoy a private tour of this architectural marvel, followed by a performance from a VIP box.

  • Helicopter tour of Paris: See the City of Light from above, marveling at iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.

  • Hot air balloon ride: Float over the Parisian skyline at sunrise for a truly magical experience (weather permitting).

  • Private concert at Sainte Chapelle: Immerse yourself in a bespoke musical performance within this Gothic architectural gem.

  • Versailles by helicopter: Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles, arriving in style via private helicopter transfer.

  • Luxury jewelry workshop: Participate in an exclusive workshop with a renowned jeweler on the prestigious Place Vendôme.

  • After-hours Musée d'Orsay tour: Explore this converted railway station housing impressionist masterpieces without the crowds.

Day trips:

  • Champagne Region: Take a private helicopter tour of prestigious champagne houses and enjoy exclusive tastings.

Itinerary highlights:

  • Depart from Paris Heliport for a 45-minute scenic flight over Paris landmarks and the Champagne vineyards.

  • Land near Epernay to visit renowned champagne houses.

  • Enjoy exclusive tastings and tours at prestigious estates.

  • Indulge in a gourmet lunch in Epernay.

  • Return flight to Paris with views of Reims cathedral and surrounding landscapes.

Champagne house experiences:

  • Moët & Chandon

  • Tour the historic cellars.

  • Participate in the exclusive "Moët Collection" experience.

  • Taste Grand Vintage and Grand Vintage Collection champagnes in a private lounge.

Veuve Clicquot:

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed chalk cellars.

  • Learn about Madame Clicquot's innovations in champagne production.

  • Sample their finest vintages, including La Grande Dame.

Dom Pérignon:

  • Visit the birthplace of Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers.

  • Tour the historic cellars and learn about their meticulous production methods.

  • Enjoy a guided tasting of prestigious cuvées, including rare vintages.

Additional experiences:

  • Visit family-run estates like Roger-Constant Lemaire for a contrast to the large houses.

  • Option to include a tour of the vineyards of Montagne de Reims.

  • Possibility of arranging a private sommelier for guided tastings.

Giverny:

Visit Monet's house and gardens, with a private guide offering insights into the artist's life and work.

Giverny offers a captivating journey into the world of Claude Monet, the father of Impressionism. Located about 50 miles west of Paris, this quaint village was Monet's home for 43 years, from 1883 until his death in 1926.

The gardens:

Monet's gardens, which inspired many of his iconic paintings, are divided into two distinct areas:

  • Clos Normand: A flower-filled garden showcasing Monet's passion for color and light.

  • Water Garden: Japanese-inspired with the famous water lily pond and green bridge.

Insider tips:

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the gardens in the best light.

  • The gardens are open from April 1st to November 1st each year.

  • Hiring a private guide is highly recommended for in-depth insights into Monet's life and work.

  • If time allows, visit the nearby Musée des Impressionismes for a deeper understanding of the artistic movement.

Loire Valley: Explore magnificent châteaux and indulge in wine tastings at renowned vineyards.

The Loire Valley offers a captivating blend of magnificent châteaux and renowned vineyards, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

Wine experiences:

  • Vouvray: Sample the region's renowned Chenin Blanc wines, known for their versatility from dry to sweet styles.

  • Saumur: Explore the area's sparkling wines and red Cabernet Franc in unique troglodyte caves.

  • Chinon: Taste the region's celebrated red wines made from Cabernet Franc grapes.

  • Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé: Discover the ultimate expression of Sauvignon Blanc in these prestigious appellations.

The Loire Valley's combination of historical grandeur and viticultural excellence offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience. Showcasing the best of French heritage and winemaking tradition.

Here are some highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site:

  • Magnificent Châteaux: Château de Chambord: This iconic Renaissance masterpiece boasts 440 rooms, 80 staircases and a famous double-helix staircase possibly designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

  • Château de Chenonceau: Known as the "Ladies' Château," this elegant castle spans the Cher River and offers unique wine tastings in its stone cellars.

  • Château de Villandry: Famous for its exquisite gardens, including a stunning vegetable garden with an extensive hydraulic system.

Places to eat & drink in Paris

  • Dinner Cruise with Bateaux Parisiens: Savor gourmet cuisine while gliding along the Seine, taking in illuminated Parisian landmarks.The boat features large bay windows and glass ceilings, providing unparalleled panoramic views of Paris at night. Live music and singers enhance the romantic atmosphere, creating an unforgettable experience.

  • Le Cinq: Indulge in three-Michelin-starred cuisine at this opulent restaurant within the Four Seasons Hotel George V. For those seeking the pinnacle of French gastronomy in a setting of unparalleled elegance, Le Cinq offers a truly unforgettable experience.

  • L'Abeille: Experience innovative French gastronomy at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel. L'Abeille, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel Paris, offers an exceptional French gastronomic experience. Located in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the restaurant provides a stunning setting overlooking the hotel's garden.

  • L'Oiseau Blanc: Perched atop the Peninsula Paris Hotel, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and Paris skyline. Chef David Bizet's menu focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients with a modern twist on classic French flavors. Don't miss their Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert.

  • Pavillon Ledoyen: Savor Yannick Alléno's three-Michelin-starred creations in a historic pavilion near the Champs-Élysées. A unique feature of Alléno Paris is the "La Conciergerie de Table," a revolutionary service concept that personalizes the dining experience. The staff reaches out to guests before their visit to create a tailor-made menu based on individual preferences and the occasion.

  • L'Arpège: Delight in Alain Passard's vegetable-focused, three-Michelin-starred cuisine. Passard's approach revolves around showcasing the natural flavors and textures of vegetables, many of which come from his own biodynamic gardens. The restaurant receives daily deliveries from these gardens, ensuring the freshest produce for each service.

  • Benoit Paris: This charming Michelin-starred bistro, managed by Alain Ducasse, offers classic French cuisine in a cozy, vintage Parisian setting. The duck confit is a must-try, perfectly capturing the essence of traditional French cooking.

  • Le Bar du Bristol: Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in the elegant setting of Le Bristol Paris hotel. For a more vibrant experience, visitors can enjoy "Bristol After Dark" from Wednesday to Saturday, 10 pm to 2 am, featuring DJ sets and a transformed atmosphere.

  • Le Jules Verne: Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, this Michelin-starred restaurant provides an unparalleled dining experience with panoramic views of Paris. Chef Frédéric Anton's exquisite menu features modern French cuisine. Try the lobster with citrus and caviar for a truly luxurious starter.

Need to know

To further enhance this guide, here are a few additional suggestions:

  • Exclusive shopping experiences: including luxury shopping tours in high-end areas like Rue Saint-Honoré, Avenue Montaigne and Saint-Germain. These tours offer VIP access to boutiques, private auctions and bespoke fashion experiences with personal stylists.

  • Private art tours: Le Marais is a vibrant neighborhood with a thriving art scene. A private art tour can provide insights into contemporary galleries and hidden art spaces, making it an ideal activity for art enthusiasts.

  • Luxury picnics: A luxury picnic in picturesque settings like the Gardens of the Rodin Museum or the Champ de Mars. This offers a unique way to enjoy Parisian cuisine amidst beautiful surroundings.

  • Cultural events: For those interested in cultural events, consider adding exclusive access to Paris Fashion Week, private concerts at Sainte Chapelle or VIP seats at the Opéra Garnier.

  • Wellness and spa: The luxurious spa facilities available at recommended hotels, such as Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris or the Ritz Paris. Both offering rejuvenating treatments and serene environments.

  • Personalized itineraries: The option of tailoring the itinerary to individual preferences is available. Whether it's focusing on art, history or culinary experiences, this will ensure a truly bespoke Parisian adventure.

Advisor - Monika Norvilaite

Travel Advisor

Monika Norvilaite

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