Paris
The City of Love and Romance
Ahh, Paris - the city of love. I’ve visited this city a few times, and no matter how many times I go, it never loses its magic. From strolling along the Seine to sipping coffee at a charming café, every corner feels like a scene from a movie. The architecture, the history, the food!!! No matter how well I think I know it, Paris always finds a way to surprise me.
A Fashion-Filled First Trip
The first time I visited Paris, it was for a once-in-a-lifetime event - one of my longest and best friends was showcasing her brand at Paris Fashion Week! She had just been featured in New York Fashion Week, and they flew her out for this incredible opportunity. I was beyond excited to be part of her journey and watch her dreams unfold on such a prestigious stage.
We made it a full girls' trip, traveling with her mom and aunt, and let me tell you - four women gallivanting through Paris was a sight to see! We soaked in every charming coffee shop, indulged in endless macarons, and embraced the magic of the city. Our days were filled with sightseeing, shopping, and, of course, fashion, making for an unforgettable introduction to Paris.
An Accidental Parisian Getaway
My second trip to Paris? Well, that was completely unplanned. Zak and I were on our way home from another trip in Europe when we had a layover in Paris. A serious mishap - accidentally switching luggage with another passenger - caused us to miss our connecting flight. It was hectic, stressful, and a firm reminder to always check name tags and invest in AirTags!
Once we accepted our fate, we found out the next available flight back to the U.S. was in two days. Instead of stressing over it, we decided to make the most of our unexpected stay. We hopped on Airbnb and found the cutest apartment near the Champs-Élysées, and our adventure began.
Introducing Zak to Paris
With our travel mishap behind us, I was so excited to show Zak the city. He had some preconceived notions about Paris (cue the classic “mean French people” stereotype), but after just a couple of days of exploring, sipping coffee at outdoor cafés, and meeting the kindest locals, his opinion changed completely. The charm, beauty, and energy of Paris won him over, and by the end of our stay, we were both completely in love with the city.
The Best Food & Cafés in Paris
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in its world-famous food scene. From freshly baked croissants in the morning to romantic dinners with French wine, every meal is an experience in itself. Some of my must-visit spots include quaint cafés tucked into quiet alleys, lively brasseries serving classic French cuisine, and, of course, the best crêperies for a sweet treat. Whether you’re dining at a Michelin-star restaurant or grabbing a baguette and cheese for a picnic by the Seine, the flavors of Paris are unforgettable.
Why I’ll Always Come Back to Paris
Paris is one of those cities that never loses its magic, no matter how many times you visit. Whether you’re here for a special event, a spontaneous getaway, or simply to explore, there’s always something new to discover. From world-class fashion and historic landmarks to charming streets and incredible food, it’s a place that keeps calling me back. And I know, without a doubt, this won’t be my last visit.
Now that you've heard my Paris story, keep reading for my top tips and recommendations!
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June): Best weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
Fall (September-November): Cooler temps, fewer tourists, and beautiful autumn colors create a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
Location: Le Marais is central, walkable, and full of history, boutiques, and amazing cafés. Another great option is Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which has great restaurants and easy access to major landmarks.
Getting Around: Walk as much as possible! Paris is a city best explored on foot!
Sightseeing: Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles. Visit museums on the first Sunday of the month - many are free!
Dining & Food: Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner (around 2 PM – 7 PM), so plan meals accordingly. Don’t rush meals - dining in Paris is an experience!
Packing Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or scarf, and a small, secure crossbody bag to keep valuables safe from pickpockets.
Accommodations
I highly recommend this Airbnb, located near the Champs-Élysées. This prime location puts you steps away from some of Paris’ most iconic sights, luxury shopping, and charming cafés. With the Arc de Triomphe nearby and easy metro access, getting around the city is a breeze. The apartment itself is beautifully designed, offering modern comforts and a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.
Must-Visit Attractions & Experiences
Eiffel Tower - Obviously. Go up for stunning views or enjoy a picnic at Champ de Mars.
Louvre Museum - Another must. Home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces.
Seine River Cruise - A magical way to see the city, especially at sunset!
Notre-Dame Cathedral - Even under renovation, its beauty is a must-see.
Cultural & Historical Sites
Musée d’Orsay - A museum with Impressionist art in a former train station.
Palace of Versailles - A short trip from Paris, but worth it for the grandeur and gardens.
Panthéon - Final resting place of famous French figures like Voltaire and Marie Curie.
Catacombs of Paris –-A fascinating underground experience.
Fun & Unique Experiences
Picnic along the Seine - Grab a baguette, cheese, and wine for a perfect Parisian moment.
Watch a Cabaret Show - Experience the Moulin Rouge.
Walk Along the Champs-Élysées - Shop and enjoy the famous avenue.
Perfume Workshop - Create your own signature scent at a Parisian perfumery.
Restaurants & Food Picks
Ladurée - My all time favorite for sweets. A must-visit for classic French macarons and pastries!
Le Deauville - A charming brasserie with delicious French cuisine.
La Succursale - A hidden gem serving French creative dishes with a modern twist. Get the escargot.
Libertino - A lively Italian restaurant with amazing pasta, perfect for a fun night out. You won’t regret the truffle pasta.
Girafe - A popular and stunning restaurant with a terrace offering one of the best Eiffel Tower views.
Septime - A Michelin-starred hotspot.
Au Vieux Chalet Café & Restaurant - A cozy spot with hearty French dishes.
