Paris is known as the city of love, and we think it’s quite fitting.
Even the sight of the city lights twinkling in the dark sets our heart racing, but just because you’re here for a whirlwind affair rather than a long romance, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the best that the French capital has to offer.
We found out the hard way, it helps to plan ahead so here’s just one of ‘our itineraries’ on how to spend a short 24 hours in Paris without feeling like you’ve missed a thing.
Morning in Paris: Pastries and Art
Imagine waking up in the heart of Paris in our of our luxury holiday rentals. The city is just starting to stir, and the air is filled with the promise of a magical day. We absolutely love Paris early in the morning and highly recommend you don’t miss it. Begin your adventure with a quintessential Parisian experience: indulge in a buttery croissant and a strong coffee at a local boulangerie.
There’s nothing quite like savouring the taste of France as the morning sun begins to paint the city in gold.
After you’ve licked the last flaky pastry crumbs from your fingertips and with your energy levels boosted, it’s time to immerse yourself in art. With just a morning to dedicate to a museum, we’d advise you not to be too ambitious; The Louvre is an obvious choice, but if you prefer something a little less crowded, consider the Musée de l’Orangerie. Its stunning Monet water lilies are a feast for the soul. Or, for a truly unique experience, explore the lesser-known Musée Rodin. Here’s some links to help you on your way…
Why visit Paris?
Afternoon in Paris: Books and Bistros
After a morning of cultural immersion, it’s time to slow down and soak up the Parisian atmosphere. Wander through the charming streets of the Left Bank, where independent bookstores and cozy cafes abound. Lose yourself in a captivating novel or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional bistro.
We firmly believe that the best gift for a friend or family back home (or, let’s be honest, a memento for yourself) is a good book, and we know exactly where you can find one. Shakespeare & Company, is a city icon, and is by far the most well-stocked English language bookshop in the city.
People-watching is a quintessential Parisian pastime, so find a sunny spot on a terrace and observe the world go by. We could do this all day if given the chance!
After all that culture, you’ll be ready for lunch; for a taste of the real Paris, we recommend heading to one of the city’s small bistros. Jump on the metro (look out for the art nouveau signs – yes, even their underground system is stylish) to Belleville which has, in our opinion, the best collection of places to stop for lunch in Paris. The area is, for us, the real Paris where ‘real’ Parisians live and work. It’s a melting pot of different cultures.
Don’t forget to order a glass of wine to accompany your meal – after all, you’re in France and it’s ‘the done thing’!
Evening: Awaken Your Inner Flâneur
It’s back to the very centre of the city for our next activity. In our opinion, taking a walk is the best way to experience any city; an aimless stroll, with a vague destination in mind, brings you down alleyways you’d never have known existed to discover tiny coffee shops, family-run boutiques, and hidden architectural gems.
Where ever you walk you wont be able to miss the icon of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. A symbol of love and romance, it has truly stood the test of time, and will continue to inspire and enchant visitors for generations to come. We highly recommend watching this at least once during your visit. The Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes at the beginning of each hour from dusk until 1 a.m. Simply magical.
If you haven’t already fallen for the city, a walk along the Seine as the afternoon stretches into the evening will make sure that your heart is well and truly stolen by the time the sun sets on your 24 hours in Paris.
A walk is good for more than just the soul; it’s also ideal for working up an appetite for dinner. It’s almost impossible to choose where to eat in Paris, but if pressed we would be heading to Frenchie, a real treat. This Michelin-awarded restaurant serves up refined, high-end French cuisine to stylish Parisians night after night> Or you could try Chez Georges which is close to the Arc de Triomphe, these places we’ve been to and loved however this very much down to personal taste.
Finish the night with a cocktail on high; Paris has whole-heartedly embraced the trend of rooftop bars, and why wouldn’t they, when they’ve got this kind of view? Gaze out over the skyline and fall in love with Paris all over again.
Top tips when visiting Paris
Getting to Paris from the UK
Reaching the City of Love is easier than ever. For UK residents, the Eurostar offers a high-speed rail link, whisking you from London to the heart of Paris in just over two hours. This convenient option allows you to step out of the train station and into your luxurious holiday Paris apartment without delay.
Alternatively, driving through the Channel Tunnel or flying into one of Paris’ major airports provides flexible travel choices. Whether you prefer the efficiency of air travel or the scenic charm of rail or road, Paris is readily accessible.
So, pack your bags and prepare to immerse yourself in the epitome of French elegance and sophistication.
What we do to travel to Paris
We always take our dog with us when we stay anywhere in France. We often stay in Paris late Spring and Early Autumn as it’s quieter, the drive can easily be done in half a day or so.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Paris? You can ‘Stay Fabulous‘ in the heart of Paris with our collection of luxury holiday rentals. Immerse yourself in the charm and elegance of the city of love while enjoying the utmost comfort and sophistication. We’ve got you covered with our Insider Secrets & Luxury Holiday Rentals in Paris.
