Where To Eat, Stay, And Play In Paris According To A Wannabe Local
Summer in Paris? Oui!
Paris is arguably one of the most popular cities in the world to travel to and it’s no secret as to why with its incredible art, fashion, food, and culture (the list could go on!). Having just returned from my third trip to Paris in July, I can attest that it most certainly lives up to the hype – in my opinion anyway. The city often gets a bad rap, with stereotypes of snobby locals and dirty streets, so I was elated to find that my experience was the opposite of this.
When I first stepped off the plane at Charles de Gaulle Airport, I was captivated by the architecture and Parisians going about their business; it quickly made its way into my heart, becoming one of my favourite cities I’d travelled to, particularly in the summertime. My recent trip consisted of visits to the Louvre, shopping along the Champs-Élysées, and sunbaking at Jardin du Luxembourg.
From my time spent in the city, I like to think I’ve gotten to know the must-dos, as well as where to avoid. So, here’s my complete guide on where to stay, eat, and play in the City of Love (from a wannabe local).
STAY
8th Arrondissement
Having stayed in both the 2nd and 8th Arrondissements, I can tell you the 8th Arr. is the way to go. You might know this chic neighbourhood as being home to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées, but it offers even more than these two iconic landmarks. Bustling with a mix of tourists and locals, it is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, which is exactly where you want to be as a tourist.
From my experience, using the Arc De Triomphe as a starting point and finding accommodation from there will guarantee you’re in a good area. And if you’re like me and get excited by big monuments, you’ll get a surprise every time you walk around the corner and get a glimpse of the Arc. You also want to make sure you’re in close proximity to the metro, as this is the easiest way to get around the city.
EAT
Carette
Carette
One of my favourite things to do when visiting another country is to immerse myself in the food! While Parisians aren’t big on breakfast, they do have a few indulgent cafes to choose from if you have a sweet tooth. Enter Carette.
Positioned directly opposite the Trocadéro, you can enjoy breakfast while overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Even if you’re not a fan of sweet breakfasts, it would be rude not to order their famous hot chocolate. Pure, velvety, melted chocolate balanced with their whipped cream…it’s the recipe for a good day ahead! Their pastries and lemon and sugar crêpes are also a must. You’ll often find a line later in the morning, but if you’re a true Aussie and are used to getting up early, you’ll have no problem getting a table around 8am. Or if you simply want to do as the Parisians do, find a boulangerie and grab a flaky croissant and espresso to go.
La Suite Girafe
La Suite Girafe
Viral restaurants can often be hit and miss, but La Suite Girafe is a dining experience like no other. Be prepared to book months in advance to avoid missing out, but, let me tell you, it’s worth the wait. Located in a building at the Trocadéro, you’ll enter a lift that takes you up to the rooftop and brings you to a terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower. It really feels like a little oasis from the crowds. Now, this restaurant is definitely fine dining so be prepared to fork out, but when will you get the opportunity again, right?
We went for lunch and ordered a selection of seafood and fresh sushi, accompanied by a cocktail or two. Everything was divine and I was very impressed with how fresh the sushi was.
Biche
Biche
For our last night in Paris, we wanted a really authentic French restaurant, minus the tourists. Yes, I was one, but it’s always nice to feel like a local! We googled and had no luck, so decided to explore the surrounding streets to see what was out there. We came across Biche, which is a family-run restaurant combining gastronomy with their grandmothers’ recipes.
We ordered snails, duck pâté and Cordon bleu to have the full French experience. Towards the end of our meal, the owner came into the restaurant with his family to watch France play in the Euros and warmly welcomed us to join in, offering us drinks and dessert – once we had confirmed we were going for France, that is. Their hospitality definitely made our last meal in Paris all the more memorable.
PLAY
The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum
Rich in history and culture, the Louvre is a must-do. Although it is of course home to the Mona Lisa, there is so much more to explore. I feel like it’s one of those places where every time you go, you find something new. Case and point? I only just learnt on my most recent trip that the Louvre actually housed the royal family until King Louis built the Palace of Versailles.
Depending on how much or little you like to take in the artwork, I would recommend at least half a day exploring the museum, although it can actually take days to see every inch it has to offer. The Louvre also has its own metro stop, so getting there should be fairly easy depending on where you are in the city.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette
Now for the shopping. Out of all of the department stores I’ve visited overseas, Galeries Lafayette tops them all (sorry Harrods). With all the brands you can think of, including Aussie designers like Aje and Zimmermann, you’re spoilt for choice! Even if you’re not in the market for a big purchase, its Art Nouveau-style architecture makes it a must-visit landmark.
If you’re a first-time visitor, one tip I can give you is to make sure that out of the three Galeries Lafayette stores in Paris, you should visit the flagship located in Haussmann. Just make sure you stop for a champagne at the bar inside!
Jardin du Luxembourg
Jardin du Luxembourg
Eagle-eyed fans of Emily in Paris might recognise this next spot. Located in the 6th Arr., the lush green grounds of Jardin du Luxembourg make the perfect backdrop for a stroll in the park, lunchtime picnic, or people-watching. A walk through the grounds was very welcomed after a big morning of sightseeing, especially when it looked this good! We stopped at Ladurée on our way to pick up macaroons and found a spot to enjoy them near the lake. We spent a good hour here watching runners go by and kids play with their boats in the lake while the sun warmed our backs. If you need a moment to yourself from the city, this is it!
