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Photo by Dimitri Iakymuk on Unsplash
If you’re going to Paris but only have a couple days and want to have more unique experiences, you’ve come to the right place! This guide isn’t for those who want to spend an entire day at museums or go to the top of the Eiffel Tour (though those are also great things to do in Paris). Instead, this is for the seasoned traveler who isn’t afraid of the Paris metro and trusting the locals for food recommendations.
This boutique hotel is modern but charming, centrally located, and has exceptional service. For my fellow overnight flyers, they’ll let you drop off your bags and refresh quickly before heading out to explore the city. They’ll also hold your bags if you have a later flight and don’t want to cart them with you on your last day! They have a lovely sedan service to pick you up from the airport (extra cost - but worth it).
This is where comfort with the metro (or willingness to do multiple Ubers) will come in handy. Paris is known for haute couture and big fashion houses on the Champs-Élysées, as well as fabulous thrifting.
Free’P’Star has a wide selection to choose from.
Kilo Shop has a great selection, and it's pay by weight.
Tilt Vintage is a smaller shop, but it's close to other shops and Le Bon Marche for luxury shopping.
While it’s definitely touristy, Versailles is a must-see. The mornings will beat some of the afternoon crowds, and give you more time with your tour guide and to wander the gardens or gift shops.
There are two amazing bookshops near Notre Dame that carry a wide variety of new and vintage books in English. Both have friendly service, and good for a break to find a book for the flight home.
Shakespeare & Company is an iconic Parisian bookshop where many contemporary authors have visited and written, including James Baldwin, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and James Joyce.
The Abbey Bookshop is not for the faint of heart! Floor to ceiling stacks of books, you could spend hours in here.
While a picture with the Eiffel Tour is great, there are so many insta-worthy streets that are great for shopping or exploring, too! You can't miss Cour Damoye, Rue Cremieux, and Passage des Panoramas.
Buy your tickets in advance for a self-guided tour. While not as large as other churches in Paris, it’s the most beautiful stained glass. I recommend spending at least 45-60 minutes here to see the sun change position and the light in the chapel change.
FRENCH PASTRY TOUR IN LE MARAIS
This was a highlight of my recent trip to France. For a few hours, I was whisked away and immersed in the Marais’s history and pastries. Rachelle was a fantastic guide, and she was a knowledgeable resource for other recommendations of things to do in Paris.
Recommended by the concierge of Hotel Marignan, this Michelin star restaurant did not disappoint. With either a tasting menu or chef’s menu (your choice of main), there is something to love for everyone here. It was a cozy environment, yet lively and un-stuffy. The food was incredible and the staff were fantastic.
In the Montmartre district, this brasserie had a wide selection of lunch or brunch food. The frites were amazing and the outdoor patio was a respite in the middle of the city.
This amazing food market, wine shop, and deli in the heart of the 6th is perfect for a quick salad or sandwich, as well as shopping for French delicacies to bring home!
I am a recruiter by day and a traveler & foodie on the weekends. I love Europe, exploring the US, and immersing myself in the language & culture wherever I go. I appreciate Michelin stars as much as the hottest local food truck. Message me about Paris, Minneapolis/St. Paul, or Roma!
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