Life is beautiful in Paris. Every corner is exquisitely picturesque and dominated by romanticism. It may be the classic ambiance, the chic elegance or that certain je ne sais quoi we adore that makes us return again and again.
Inspired by the glamour and decadence of the city’s Belle Époque era, we traveled back to Paris to relieve the splendor of that glorious time. An exuberant period in the French history when the City of Lights was pure enchantment.
Whenever we are in Paris, we fill our days with daylight adventures, sultry sunset wanders, candlelit dinners, romantic evening soirées and radiant morning coffees. We always forget about time and sabor each moment to the fullest.
My List of Must-Do and Inspirations
I have taken a especial care to create a guide for all of you who wish to visit the very best locations and hidden gems that Paris has to offer.
From bohemian cafés and irresistible patisseries, to the most romantic boutique hotels and stores, here I´ll reveal my favorite Parisian addresses culled from our last trips so you can visit the City of Love with exquisite French flair.
Paris’ best kept secret
Rue Camoens
There are still intimate corners to be found in the magical French capital. With the timeless and irresistible Eiffel Tower behind, the selfie urge is real! Practically unknown by the tourists, this is my absolute favorite setting to see the French monument sparkle from afar.
Where to Shop
Galeries Lafayette
Dating back to the late nineteenth century, the seven-story building has become the most fashionable store in Paris. The famous neo-byzantine dome, designed by artists of the Art Nouveau school of Nancy, becomes a festive sky above the multi-colored tree at Christmas time.
Au Nom de la Rose
I can´t think about a better way to decorate your day than getting a bouquet of lush and fragrant roses from Au Nom de La Rose.
I love the fragility and splendor of roses. To me, they conjure prettiness and romance. Total bliss to encounter this adorable little store on different locations around Paris.
Patisseries
Dreamy Ladurée
What to order? Although I always feel tempted by all creations, Isfahan dessert is definitely my favorite. The rose flavoured macaron filled with rose petal and lychee cream, embellished with fresh raspberries is a visual delight.
Maison Aleph
Offering bite-size tastes of the Middle East, this little patisserie is a complete hidden gem in the Marais district. We always stop here for some delicate “nids patisseries” (pastry nests) which are beautifully filled with cream or candied fruits.
What to order? It´s hard to decide. I´m tempted to say “Everything”. Maison Aleph also offers savory food. So apart from the crunchy nids, I would strongly recommend trying their humous which is absolutely to die for.
Restaurants
Bistro Saint Dominique
Why to go? Located on 131 Rue Saint-Dominique, this intimate bistro is the perfect restaurant for a relaxing lunch. With a stunning spiral staircase and chic decor, this intimate bistro certainly exudes a sexy vibe.
For a Glass of Champagne
La Rotonde de La Muette
Located in Paris‘s chic sixteenth arrondissement, La Rotonde de la Muette is definitely one of our favorite spots to take refuge in winter.
We love having a glass of sparkling champagne in their burgundy mid-century leather armchairs while enjoying the decor by the architect duo Roman and Williams.
Why to go? With thirties-style chandeliers on softly domed ceilings, 19th century-inspired floral patterns, gleaming surfaces, subtle lighting and cinematographic atmosphere, this decadent brasserie exudes chic radiance and timeless elegance.
La Maison Souquet
Located on Rue de Bruxelles, just opposite the infamous Moulin Rouge, the bar of this deliciously opulent hotel is without a doubt one of the most exquisite settings to have a drink in Paris.
Why to go? What makes this unlike any other is that this intriguing, small luxury hotel was originally a fin-de-siècle brothel run by Madame Bouquet. We love the red velvet, the intoxicating scent of rose, jasmine and tobacco, and the utterly seductive ambiance.
For a chic sleep
Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Located on the sixth and last floor, their signature Eiffel Suite it’s a feast for the eyes! Undoubtably one of the most romantic “typical Parisian” suites in Paris.
Tinah Paris
Located right in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, this urban jewel offers one of the most romantic stays ever! Imagine waking up in a stunning room overlooking the roofs of Paris.
Splendide Etoile Paris
Just steps from the Arc de Triomphe we found this utterly glamorous Parisian suite. With a colour palette of powder blue, pearl grey and cream, the Privilege Suite is definitely the setting for dreams to come true.
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