Exclusive Guide: Where to Eat, Stay & Play in Paris
Paris isn’t just a destination—it’s a collection of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own personality, pace and poetic charm. The city’s 20 arrondissements form a spiral of discovery, starting in the heart and swirling outward. Whether you're into architectural marvels, gastronomic adventures or simply the joy of wandering, Paris always delivers. Here’s our insider guide to where to eat, stay and play—with tips you won’t find in your standard guidebook.
There are the central islands — Île de la Cité and Île Saint Louis — and notable landmarks like Notre Dame and the Louvre in the 1st. The up-and-coming 9th has a hip, edgy, boho-chic vibe. The trendy 11th has experienced a similar renaissance of sorts — especially when it comes to gastronomy (expect unassuming, coolly decorated eateries serving Michelin-worthy food; no white tablecloths here).
There are the tourist hits — the Eiffel Tower et. al. If it’s your first time, such bucket-list essentials are well worth it. But also consider getting off-the-beaten-path, reserving ample time to channel your inner flâneur or flâneuse. If any city was ideal for wandering and delightful spontaneity, it’s Paris. Linger a little longer. Savor your food a little more. Pause. Talk to locals (the French are actually quite friendly). There are so many things to do and see, but you’ll get a lot more out of the city if you commit to slowing down — if only a little.
Quick Need-to-Knows:
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: French
Airports: CDG, ORY
Getting Around: The Métro and RER are your best friends. Reliable, frequent, and easy to navigate.
When to Go: Spring and fall are peak Paris perfection. Mild weather, lighter crowds. Avoid August unless you like quiet streets and closed boutiques.
How Long to Stay: Four to six days will get you the highlights; six or seven is better for a relaxed pace and surprise discoveries.
Signature Paris Eats
Yes, you need a croissant. But also seek out bistronomie (modern bistro dining), vibrant international flavors and old-school French staples like soupe à l’oignon, coq au vin and tarte Tatin. Don't skip the city’s booming bread culture either: Poilâne is an institution.
Left Bank (Rive Gauche)
Known for its history, intellectualism and literary charm, the Left Bank is the soul of Paris.
Where to Stay
Relais Christine — Boutique bliss hidden in a lush courtyard.
J.K. Place Paris — Understated elegance at its chicest.
Hotel Esprit Saint Germain — Feels like staying at a local’s pied-à-terre.
Hôtel Dame des Arts — Sleek and youthful, with stunning views.
Hôtel Lutetia — The Left Bank’s only true luxury palace.
Hôtel Bel Ami — Stylish and intimate, right in Saint-Germain.
Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain — Literary history meets modern elegance.
What to Do
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: High-end shopping, iconic cafés.
Jardin du Luxembourg: Picnic heaven.
Musée d’Orsay & Rodin: Manageable, masterful, and memorable.
Latin Quarter: Youthful energy near the Sorbonne.
Parc Montsouris & Catacombs: Greenery and the macabre.
Butte aux Cailles & Chinatown (13th): Local vibes, great food.
Where to Eat
Racines des Prés: Modern bistro, open kitchen.
Le Christine: Elegant and local.
Café de Flore & Les Deux Magots: Quintessential and iconic.
Coya: Latin fusion in a scene-y setting.
Le Voltaire & L’Assiette: Cozy French classics.
La Felicità: Chic, casual Italian.
Poilâne: Grab a sourdough to-go.
Right Bank (Rive Droite)
The energetic, eclectic counterpart to the south. From the regal Champs-Élysées to hip Canal Saint-Martin, there's something for every type of traveler.
Where to Stay
La Fantaisie, Château Voltaire, Kimpton St Honoré, Ritz Paris — Stylish stays in every mood.
Hôtel de Crillon & Cheval Blanc — Parisian luxury at its finest.
Le Petit Moulin & Grand Pigalle Experimental — Boutique charm with bold personalities.
Le Pavillon de la Reine, Cour des Vosges, Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin — Marais gems worth writing home about.
Saint James Paris & Le Bristol — Grandeur and grace.
What to Do
Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe (8th): Classic postcard Paris.
The Louvre (1st): Pick 2-3 sections max. Less is more.
Marais & Haut Marais: Boutique browsing, Jewish heritage, excellent museums.
Montmartre & Pigalle: Old Paris charm, up-and-coming energy.
Bois de Boulogne & Fondation Louis Vuitton: Outdoor beauty and bold architecture.
Canal Saint Martin: Local hangout, especially in warm weather.
Père-Lachaise Cemetery: The most peaceful place to name-drop Proust, Morrison, Piaf.
Where to Eat
Septime & Clamato: Seafood-forward, Michelin-worthy.
Mokonuts: Fusion magic (Lebanese + Japanese).
Boubalé & Tekés: Playful Israeli-forward dining.
Vantre, Korus, Aspic, Le Richer: Sleek bistronomy.
Holybelly & Du Pain et des Idées: Brunch and bakery heaven.
Sol Semilla: Vegan-friendly.
Le Très Particulier: Cocktail hideaway in Montmartre.
Don’t-Miss Paris Markets
Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: The world’s greatest flea market.
Marché des Enfants Rouges: Oldest covered food market in Paris.
Batignolles Bio Market: Organic, charming, Saturdays only.
Bio c' Bon, La Récolte, Bien Epicerie Bio: Groceries that feel like boutique shops.
In Conclusion…
Paris is vast, complex, and beautiful in ways both grand and subtle. The best trips balance the big and the small—the Louvre and that perfect glass of wine at a hidden cafe. We’ll help you create a trip that’s uniquely yours, with the best insider experiences and perks to match. Connect with us for your custom Paris itinerary—and let the magic begin.
