Travel to ... Paris, France

by.hannah.g
Dec 13, 2025
8 min read

Think of Paris as that effortlessly chic friend who never tries too hard but always looks amazing. The streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, cozy cafés spill onto sidewalks, and there’s always something romantic in the air—whether it’s the glow of the Eiffel Tower at night or the sound of glasses clinking at a corner bistro. Days here are meant for wandering, stopping for pastries just because, lingering over wine, and taking in views that somehow look even better in real life. From stylish neighborhoods to iconic landmarks, Paris has a way of making everything feel a little more special. Pour a glass of champagne and let the city work its magic.

Understanding the Different Neighborhoods of Paris

One of the most important things to know about Paris is that it’s not just one city—it’s a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality, charm, and unique attractions! When planning your trip, it’s essential to understand that the vibe and offerings of the neighborhood you choose will shape your entire experience. It was challenging to narrow it down, but these are my top recommendations for a first-time visit. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed, residential escape or a lively area packed with dining, shopping, and cultural landmarks, Paris has something for everyone.

P.S. Thanks to the city’s excellent public transportation and walkable streets, exploring multiple neighborhoods is effortless. Whether you stroll along the Seine, hop on the metro, or enjoy a scenic bike ride, moving between neighborhoods is not only easy but also the perfect way to experience Paris from different angles.

Choosing the Right Neighborhood for Your Ideal Getaway

Each Parisian neighborhood offers its own distinct personality, so it’s important to consider the type of experience you want before choosing where to stay. Some areas feel quiet and residential, perfect for travelers who want to wander charming streets, linger at cafés, and experience Paris at a slower pace. Others are more energetic and social, offering a lively mix of restaurants, boutiques, nightlife, and cultural landmarks right outside your door.

Relaxed and Residential Stays: If you’re drawn to a calmer, more intimate Parisian experience, neighborhoods like Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the 7th Arrondissement, and parts of the Latin Quarter are ideal. These areas are known for elegant streets, historic architecture, and a refined, local atmosphere where mornings are spent at neighborhood cafés and afternoons are perfect for strolling museums, bookshops, and riverside paths.
More Lively and Central: For travelers who enjoy being in the heart of the action, neighborhoods such as Le Marais and Montmartre offer a more vibrant energy. Expect bustling streets filled with restaurants, stylish boutiques, galleries, and nightlife, along with an unmistakable creative spirit. These areas are perfect if you want to feel immersed in Paris’s dynamic culture from morning until late evening.

Where to Stay: Le Marais

Maison Proust, Hotel & Spa La Mer | $$$$

A richly layered boutique hotel inspired by Marcel Proust’s Belle Époque world, Maison Proust feels like stepping into a private Parisian salon filled with antiques, velvet textures, and literary romance. Its intimate spa and atmospheric bar make it a true destination stay in the heart of Le Marais. Le Pavillon de la Reine | $$$

Hidden behind ivy-covered walls on the iconic Place des Vosges, Le Pavillon de la Reine is an elegant retreat offering classic Parisian luxury with a peaceful garden courtyard. The historic setting, refined rooms, and discreet spa create a timeless and romantic experience.

Experimental Marais | $$$

Experimental Marais delivers a modern, design-forward stay with moody interiors, curated art, and a cosmopolitan vibe. Located in the Haut-Marais, it pairs stylish rooms with a buzzy restaurant and cocktail bar that attract both travelers and locals.

Hôtel du Petit Moulin Paris | $$

Designed by Christian Lacroix, this playful boutique hotel blends bold colors, artistic details, and historic charm inside a former bakery. Each room is uniquely styled, making it a creative and character-filled base for exploring the Marais.

Where to Stay: Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Relais Christine | $$$$

Tucked away on a quiet Left Bank street, Relais Christine feels like a secret Parisian residence with lush gardens, vaulted stone ceilings, and refined, intimate luxury. Its serene spa and literary-era charm perfectly reflect the soul of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

L’Hôtel Paris | $$$

Once home to Oscar Wilde, L’Hôtel Paris is a decadent, design-driven boutique hotel blending literary history with bold interiors and rich textures. The atmosphere is romantic, slightly dramatic, and unmistakably Left Bank chic.

Hôtel des Saints Pères | $$

A charming boutique hotel housed in a former 17th-century mansion, Hôtel des Saints Pères blends classic Parisian details with warm, understated elegance. It’s an inviting and stylish choice for travelers who want authenticity without excess.

Where to Stay: 7th Arrondissement

Le Narcisse Blanc Hôtel & Spa | $$$$

Elegant and quietly luxurious, Le Narcisse Blanc blends Left Bank refinement with a soft, residential feel just steps from Les Invalides. With its serene spa, muted palette, and couture-level attention to detail, it’s ideal for travelers seeking understated Parisian luxury.

Hôtel Thoumieux | $$$

A fashion-editor favorite, Hôtel Thoumieux combines bold, retro-inspired interiors with a deeply Parisian sense of style. Located near the Seine, it feels intimate, playful, and effortlessly chic, with an acclaimed restaurant downstairs.

Hôtel de Lille | $$

Set in a former aristocratic townhouse, Hôtel de Lille is intimate and discreet, with traditional decor and a cozy, authentic Left Bank atmosphere. It’s a timeless, well-priced option for travelers who value charm, location, and quiet sophistication.

Where to Stay: Montmartre

Maison Souquet | $$$$

Hidden behind an unassuming façade near Pigalle, Maison Souquet is a lavish, Belle Époque–inspired boutique hotel filled with velvet textures, moody lighting, and old-world Parisian glamour. Its intimate spa and salon-style atmosphere make it one of Montmartre’s most seductive stays.

Hôtel Particulier Montmartre | $$$

Set within a private mansion and surrounded by one of Paris’s largest hidden gardens, Hôtel Particulier Montmartre feels like a secret escape above the city. With individually designed suites and a refined restaurant, it offers rare privacy and understated luxury.

Terrass’’ Hotel | $$$

A Montmartre icon, Terrass’’ Hotel blends classic elegance with contemporary design and boasts one of the most beautiful rooftop views in Paris. The atmosphere is polished yet relaxed, making it ideal for travelers who want both style and a sense of place. Hôtel Monsieur Aristide | $$

Warm, bohemian, and effortlessly cool, Hôtel Monsieur Aristide captures the artistic spirit of Montmartre with vintage details and a relaxed, neighborhood feel. Its cozy courtyard and intimate rooms make it a charming and approachable boutique option.

Where to Stay: Latin Quarter

Hôtel d’Aubusson | $$$$

Rich in Left Bank history, Hôtel d’Aubusson occupies a 17th-century townhouse and blends classical elegance with a refined, intimate atmosphere. Its vaulted jazz bar and serene spa make it one of the most luxurious stays in the Latin Quarter.

Hôtel Monge | $$$

Warm, stylish, and impeccably detailed, Hôtel Monge offers a polished boutique experience with soft tones, thoughtful design, and a welcoming, residential feel. It’s perfectly situated for exploring the literary and historic heart of the Latin Quarter.

Hôtel des Grands Hommes | $$

Facing the Panthéon, this classic boutique hotel delivers timeless Parisian charm with simple, refined interiors and an unbeatable location. It’s an elegant, well-priced option for travelers who value history and atmosphere over flash.

What to Do

Go up the Eiffel Tower

Soak in the magic of the Eiffel Tower as you see it from every angle—sparkling by night, iconic by day. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine or pausing with a glass of champagne nearby, there’s nothing quite like taking in Paris’s most famous landmark

Private Boat Cruise down the Seine

Drift along the Seine on a private boat cruise and see Paris unfold from the water. Glide past historic bridges and iconic landmarks as the city sparkles around you, champagne in hand. It’s an intimate, unforgettable way to experience Paris at its most romantic and refined.

Create Your Own Perfume

Step into the world of French fragrance and create a scent that’s entirely your own. Guided by expert perfumers, you’ll blend notes that speak to your style and take home a custom perfume that captures your Parisian experience—personal, elegant, and uniquely memorable.

Shop in Galeries Lafayette

Wander through Galeries Lafayette and indulge in a little Parisian retail therapy. From luxury designers to beautifully curated displays, every floor feels like a fashion moment. Pause to admire the iconic glass dome or head to the rooftop for stunning city views—it’s shopping in Paris at its finest.

Attend a Cooking Class in a Parisian Apartment

Step inside a classic Parisian apartment and learn the art of French cooking in the most charming setting. With local ingredients and hands-on guidance, you’ll master timeless recipes while sipping wine and sharing stories—an intimate, delicious way to experience Paris like a local.

Walk through Jardin du Luxembourg

Take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg and soak in one of Paris’s most beautiful green spaces. From tree-lined paths to elegant fountains and sun-filled chairs, it’s the perfect place to slow down and people-watch.

Picnic at Champ de Mars

Lay out a picnic at the Champ de Mars and enjoy Paris with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop. With fresh baguettes, cheese, and a bottle of wine, it’s an easy, relaxed way to soak in the city—especially as the tower begins to sparkle at sunset.

Stroll through the many museums, like the Louvre

Spend the day wandering through Paris’s world-class museums, from the iconic Louvre to smaller hidden gems. Lose yourself in timeless art, grand galleries, and moments of inspiration—each museum offering a deeper glimpse into the city’s rich culture and creativity.

Enjoy a Wine Tasting

Sip and savor your way through Paris with a curated wine tasting experience. From delicate whites to bold reds, each glass tells a story of French terroir, perfect for slowing down, discovering new favorites, and indulging in a truly Parisian ritual.

Take in the views of the Notre Dame

Pause and take in the striking beauty of Notre Dame, one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Whether admiring its gothic details up close or gazing at it from across the Seine, the cathedral’s grandeur and history make for a moment that’s both awe-inspiring and unforgettable.

Where to Drink

Bar Les Ambassadeurs

Hidden among the streets of Paris, this sophisticated bar pairs a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with curated cocktails, making it the perfect spot to linger and take in the city’s charm.

Serpent A Plume Tucked away beneath the elegant arcades of Place des Vosges, this stylish Parisian lounge is a whimsically speakeasy‑style bar where surreal décor, creative cocktails, and lively vibes collide—think plush velvet and retro details.

Fabula Set in a hidden garden at the Musée Carnavalet, this enchanting spot serves inventive cocktails in a lush outdoor oasis that feels straight out of a Parisian summer dream.

Little Red Door

Behind its iconic red door lies a chic, secret hideaway where inventive cocktails and moody, elegant décor create the perfect evening escape.

Les Sombres

Perched atop a museum terrace with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, this elegant bar pairs creative, Mediterranean‑inspired cocktails with a chic, sun‑kissed ambiance that feels like a Parisian escape in the sky.

Cravan

Hidden in a historic Saint‑Germain building, this multi‑level cocktail sanctuary blends creative mixology with literary charm and distinct design for an unforgettable night of drinks. Windo Skybar

Perched high above Paris, this chic skybar offers delicious cocktails and sweeping city views—perfect for sipping in style while taking in the skyline.

Where to Eat

Chez Janou

Pull up a chair at this lively Marais bistro and enjoy a delicious dinner of hearty Provençal dishes, paired with great wine, all while soaking in the cozy, bustling Parisian atmosphere.

Cavale

Head to this cozy spot in the 11th arrondissement for a laid-back dinner of seasonal, Italian-inspired dishes, paired with natural wines, in a relaxed, stylish setting that feels like home.

Pink Mamma

Step into this vibrant Italian hotspot in the 9th arrondissement and indulge in delicious pasta, wood-fired pizza, and other mouthwatering dishes, all served up in a chic, multi-level space that’s as lively as it is cozy. Andia

This chic eatery serves fresh, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed yet elegant setting, perfect for a memorable Parisian dinner. Maxims

This historic brasserie offers classic French flavors in a sophisticated, vibrant space perfect for a memorable evening out.

Zapi Nestled in the heart of Paris, this vibrant Italian spot serves crisp Roman pizzas and fresh pasta in a playful, retro-chic atmosphere.

Michalak

Michalak invites you to indulge in French desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, perfect for a memorable Parisian treat. Noti Club Nestled right on the Seine at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this waterfront bar‑restaurant serves creative cocktails, shareable bites, and riverfront views.

And just like that, you’re ready to dive into everything Paris has to offer—whether it’s the romantic streets of Montmartre, the iconic skyline from the Eiffel Tower, or the pastries and cafés that are practically a love letter to France. So, grab your beret and plan your adventure—Paris isn’t just a city, it’s an experience. And now, it’s yours to discover!