Strolling Through the City of Lights
Paris, a city that always manages to enchant, promises a weekend full of charm, culture, and, of course, exceptional food. For those of us who prefer to embrace the city's rhythm at a leisurely pace, there's something magical about simply strolling through its neighborhoods, taking in the sights, and experiencing the Parisian lifestyle. Here's a glimpse of a relaxed, yet unforgettable weekend in Paris, filled with coffee, croissants, and a good dose of wanderlust.
Day 1: Embracing the City’s Heartbeat
Our weekend began early with a flight into Orly Airport, where we quickly navigated our way to the city center via the subway. First stop: Café Kitsuné—a chic café located in the Palais Royal. It was the perfect place for a light breakfast. The rich, velvety coffee paired with a pastry set the tone for our day.
We then made our way to Hôtel de l'Arcade, a cozy and well-located hotel in Madeleine. It's the kind of place that feels like a home away from home, with its intimate atmosphere and proximity to many of Paris’ iconic spots.
After dropping off our bags, we ventured out for a casual stroll, stopping by a few shops to explore. One of our favorite finds was Cédric Grolet's new store—an on-the-go bakery offering freshly baked croissants and pastries. It’s a perfect stop for a quick bite, and the croissants were, unsurprisingly, amazing.
Lunch was a light and healthy affair at Wild & the Moon, a popular spot for organic, plant-based fare. The colorful bowls and refreshing juices were just what we needed to fuel our afternoon activities.
Next, we took a Lagree class at Snake & Flakes. If you're into fitness, it's a unique and challenging workout that gets your heart pumping and body moving. It was a fun way to balance out all the food we'd been enjoying.
We ended the day in Montmartre, wandering around its charming streets, taking in the views, and soaking in the artistic vibe of this historic neighborhood.
For dinner, we headed to Gallopin, a traditional French restaurant with a lively atmosphere. The menu was classic French fare with a modern twist, and the fries—crisp, golden, and utterly addictive—were definitely a highlight!
Day 2: A Day of Indulgence and Chic Discoveries
The second day began with what could be called the quintessential mainstream/touristic/fancy Parisian breakfast at Ladurée. The iconic tea room in Saint-Germain is the place for a leisurely morning, where you can sip a cappuccino and nibble on a croissant or macarons. It's an experience that feels both luxurious and comforting.
After breakfast, we spent the rest of the morning wandering around some of the best boutique stores in Paris. We stopped by L'Orangerie d'Isabelle for a unique shopping experience ( it was a POP-UP, check out their website ) browsed through the stylish shelves of Assouline, and popped into Anja Paris Costumi, where we discovered beautiful fashion pieces with a distinct Parisian flair.
Lunch was at Ralph’s, a stylish restaurant with a casual vibe, set in the heart of the chic Ralph Lauren store. The meal was delicious, and the atmosphere was buzzing with style and sophistication.
In the afternoon, we treated ourselves to a delightful tea at Lutetia Brasserie, another quintessential Parisian experience. The luxurious setting made it feel like we were part of something grand and timeless.
A stop at Crêperie des Cannettes in the evening rounded off our day. If you’re in the mood for a savory or sweet crêpe, this place will not disappoint. The crispy, light crêpes are just what you need to satisfy any cravings before heading to Tekes, a lively, veggie-focused restaurant where we dined with friends. The music and ambiance created the perfect backdrop for a fun night out.
Day 3: A More Laid-back Approach
By the third day, we were fully settled into the Parisian rhythm and embraced a more relaxed pace. We picked up matcha to-go from Café Nuances and slowly made our way to Centre Pompidou. This iconic museum, with its striking modern architecture, offers both an impressive collection of contemporary art and breathtaking views of the city from its rooftop.
Afterward, we wandered through Le Marais, one of Paris’ most picturesque neighborhoods. The cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and charming cafés make it the perfect place to get lost in the magic of Paris.
Lunch was at Camille Bistrot, a cozy, no-frills spot with classic French comfort food that was the ideal way to wrap up our weekend.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, a few days in Paris is never enough. But if you take the time to wander, you just might find that the city’s magic is found not only in its grand monuments but in its hidden corners, charming cafés, and the simple pleasure of walking through its streets.