Paris is my favourite city in the world. Three times a year we go for market, and even though it is hard work, it is also a time to reconnect with friends and colleagues, try new restaurants and perhaps catch an exhibition.
My favourite thing to do in a city is to explore, so I put on a good pair of trainers and just walk the streets looking for some new experiences.
I'll share with you a few of my favourite things to do in Paris, if you get a chance to go and seek some of these out please do they are well worth it!
EAT
Candelaria, 52 Rue de Saintonge, 75003
Amazing hole in the wall, with few seats but its worth the wait the margaritas are fab!
Hotel Costes, 239-241 Rue Saint Honore, 75001
Enjoy the pricey and delicious Tom Yam Sea Bass with a glass of Rose whilst watching the fashion crowd flock.
Marche des Enfants Rouges, 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003
One of the oldest markets in Paris, the food offerings are varied and charming.
Miznon, 22, Rue des Ecouffes, 75004
Braze yourself for long queues but this Israeli restaurant is worth it if you do. Grilled cauliflower, filled pita bread, falafel..
Clamato, 80 Rue de Charonne, 74011
Stunning seafood, the ceviche is maybe the best I have had ouside of Peru. Great wine and charming staff. No booking, so just show up and wait for a table.
Girafe, 1 Place du Trocadero, 75016
Expensive but with one of the most incredible terraces in town overlooking the Tour Eiffel.
DRINK
The Red Door, 60 Rue Charlot, 75003
Original cocktails and very friendly staff, a great spot for a pre or after dinner drink.
Montana, 28 Rue Saint-Benoit, 75006
Not sure I have figured this place out yet but we always have fun here. Also a hotel with stylish rooms.
Hemingway, Hotel Ritz, 15 Place de Vendome, 75001
Almost impossible during fashion week but a great place for a drink any other time if you can pinch one of the few seats.
Cafe Flore, 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006
Legendary Chocolate Chaud, coffee or anything else you might fancy whilst watching the left bank world go by.
SLEEP
Nolinski, 16 Avenue de l'Opera, 75001
Stylish and very comfortable with a fabulous location close to Palais Royale.
Hotel Costes, 239-241 Rue Saint Honore, 75001
An institution in Paris, the rooms are moody and dark, and the location is great.
Pavilion de la Reine, 28 Place des Vosges, 75003
Class act on one of the most beautiful squares in Paris.
SHOP
Merci, 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003
They always have a cool edit and a fun pop up concept, always worth a peek in. Also one of my favourite spots for breakfast.
March aux Puces, Saint Ouen, 75018
Its a bit of a track and if you don't know where to go it can be a bit confusing the first time. However once you get your head around whats where its a giant treasure chest of everything from bric-a- brac to high end antiques. Open Fridays-Mondays.
Le Bon Marche, 24 Rue de Sevres, 75007
For a one stop shop this department store is my favourite. They carry all the big labels but also many unknown and generally has a very good edit.
Astier de Vilatte, 173 Rue Saint Honore, 75001
It must be one of the most beautiful stores in Paris, it is like walking into a 1890 store. Their beautiful ceramic tableware is pricey but it is worth browsing for little gifts.
WALK
Along the Seine is simply stunning, whatever time of day, season and weather. I never feel I have been in Paris properly unless I have crossed it at least once by foot. Stroll from the Louvre to Musee d'Orsay if you fancy a day of museums.
Starting at the Tour Eiffel, towards the Trocadero, onwards into the Bois de Bologne, ending up at the Foundation Louis Vuitton where you can enjoy the amazing architecture by Frank Gehry and a impressive collection of contemporary art.
Around the Marais, starting at Merci working my way to Place des Vosges, down to Musee Picasso, then on past Centre Pompidou towards Palais Royale. Here you get rewarded with stunning architecture, fun window shopping and good coffee.
Around the Tuileries gardens, from the Obelisk to the Louvre Pyramid. Go on from there to the left bank or end with a drink at Lou Lou's terrace.
Enjoy,
Marte xo
