Here is your ultimate guide to experiencing Paris like a local! Whether it’s your first visit or you’re looking to dive deeper into the city beyond the tourist spots, this guide will have you feeling like a true Parisian in no time ;).
A little about me: I’m French and have spent several years living in Paris for both studies and work. My first Parisian apartment was a cozy 25m² (270 ft²) Haussmannian flat on Rue de Saussure in the 17th arrondissement, just a five-minute walk from the Villiers metro station. I absolutely loved living in this neighborhood, which is perfect for families and young adults. Later, I moved to the 4th arrondissement, to the charming Rue des Deux Ponts on Île Saint-Louis. This street, nestled between Pont Marie and Pont de la Tournelle, offers easy access to the Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Based on my Parisian experiences, I’m excited to share with you the lesser-known, locally-loved sides of the city. In this guide, you’ll find my favorite arrondissements, the best spots to stay, eat, and drink, and all the hidden gems that will help you experience the best of Paris like a local.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- The Best Times to Visit Paris
- Where to Stay in Paris
- Eat Like a Local in Paris
- The Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Paris
- Paris Safety Tips
This post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. I only feature products I truly love and personally select. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Merci!
1. The Best Times to Visit Paris
June to August
There’s no better time to enjoy Paris’s famous café culture and the banks of the Seine than in summer. Locals love to relax along the Seine year-round, but you’ll see them out in full force on warm summer evenings with a picnic and a bottle of wine. Summer in Paris offers more activities than any other time of the year, from free outdoor movies and concerts to a man-made beach along the Seine, known as “Paris Plage.” Just remember, you’ll be sharing the City of Lights with plenty of other tourists.
Even though summer is the peak tourist season, some smaller museums, boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and art galleries close during August when many Parisians go on vacation.
Key Events
- Fête de la Musique (June 21): Enjoy free music concerts all over the streets and parks of Paris to celebrate the summer solstice.
- Le Tour de France: Catch the thrilling final day as cyclists circle the Champs Elysées.
- Bastille Day (July 14): Watch the military parade at 10 am on the Champs-Elysées and the stunning Eiffel Tower fireworks at 11 pm.
- Paris Plage: Experience the “beaches” along the Right and Left Banks of the Seine, sports in front of Hôtel de Ville, and swimming and water sports at Bassin de la Villette. Open from early July to early September.
- Assumption Day (August 15): The evening before, enjoy a river procession along the Seine, followed by a special Mass at Notre Dame on the 15th. Most stores and services in Paris are closed on this day.
September to October
If you’re looking to enjoy Paris with fewer crowds but still want great weather, fall is your best bet. You’ll find shorter lines at top attractions and be treated to the stunning autumn foliage.
Key Events
- Paris Fashion Week (September): Dive into the excitement of the latest fashion trends.
- La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre: Join the fun at Paris’s only wine harvest festival, held near Montmartre’s last vineyard.
- Nuit Blanche (White Night): Spend the night exploring Parisian museums for free, open until dawn.
- FIAC (International Contemporary Art Fair): Explore amazing contemporary art at the beautiful Grand Palais.
November to December
Winter in Paris is perfect for budget travelers, with quieter sights and lower prices. While the weather is mostly rainy and chilly, snow is rare. But come December, Paris turns into a magical wonderland with twinkling fairy lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, festive shop windows, and charming outdoor ice-skating rinks.
Key Events
- La Toussaint – All Saints’ Day (November 1): A special day to remember all saints and martyrs.
- Armistice Day (November 11): Join the locals as they honor their war heroes with a grand military parade from the Arc de Triomphe down the Champs-Elysées.
- Beaujolais Nouveau (3rd Thursday in November): Celebrate the new Beaujolais vintage with fireworks, festivals, and music.
- Marchés de Noël —Christmas Markets: Get into the holiday spirit by exploring the many Christmas markets around the city, which are filled with festive goodies.
- Best Christmas Windows: Make sure to check out the stunning holiday displays at Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Le Bon Marché, Le BHV, Faubourg Sainte-Honoré, Avenue Montaigne, and Place Vendôme.
March to May
Spring, especially April and May, is the perfect time to visit Paris. The crowds are smaller, but the weather is delightful. While it might still be a bit chilly until May, you’ll be treated to the vibrant spring flowers blooming in Paris’s beautiful parks. By early March, you’ll start seeing the first signs of spring, with cherry trees and magnolias in bloom and tiny green leaves appearing on trees and bushes.
Key Events
- Semi de Paris (Paris Half-Marathon): The second most popular run after the Paris Marathon.
- Livre Paris: France’s biggest book fair, bringing together writers, authors, and publishers under one roof.
- Easter: Good Friday and Easter Monday are both national holidays in France.
- The Annual Paris Marathon: Join 40,000 runners in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
- La Foire de Paris: Discover the latest trends in home interiors, gardens, outdoor activities, wine, and gastronomy.
- Fête du Travail – Labor Day (May 1): A national holiday in France.
- WWII Victory Day Ceremony (May 8): The President of France lays flowers on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor the liberation of France.
- Roland-Garros (May to June): The French Open Tennis Championship is the only Grand Slam tournament played on red clay courts.
- Nuit des Musées: Enjoy free museum entry with extended hours into the night.
- Pentecôte (Whit Sunday and Whit Monday): A time for celebration and reflection.
2. Where to Stay in Paris
Finding the perfect place to stay in Paris can be a bit confusing and stressful, especially if it’s your first visit. But don’t worry! Understanding the Paris neighborhoods and how they are set up will make things much easier. This will help you follow my guide and get a better idea of where each location is when I share the best places to stay in Paris below.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods. They start with the 1st arrondissement, located right in the center of Paris near the Louvre, and spread out across the city like the spokes of a wheel or the numbers on a clock. Each arrondissement has its own unique charm and character, so there isn’t one that’s better than the others. In this guide, I’ll highlight their characteristics to help you find the one that best suits what you’re looking for when staying in Paris ;).
a. The 1st: Best Neighborhood in Paris for Sightseeing
If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing, the 1st arrondissement is the perfect place to stay. Many of Paris’s most famous landmarks are right here, and you’ll be in a great spot to visit many others. Art lovers will appreciate being close to the Louvre Museum, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, and the Impressionist treasures at the Musée de l’Orangerie. You can marvel at the stunning stained glasswork of Sainte-Chapelle, take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden, and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the charming cafés around the Palais-Royal. Shoppers will love exploring the elegant shops along Rue de Rivoli and the trendy boutiques in the lively Les Halles quarter.
Place Vendôme, where Coco Chanel once lived, is also home to the newly renovated Ritz Paris, where you can have a drink at the Hemingway Bar. You’ll also be within easy walking distance of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Centre Pompidou, Champs-Elysées, and just across the river from the Musée d’Orsay and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. While this is one of the pricier areas to stay in Paris, I highly recommend it if you’re visiting for a few days and want to be close to all the major attractions.
My Favorite Hotels in the 1st
b. The 7th and 8th: Best Neighborhood in Paris to Stay for First-Timers
The 7th and 8th arrondissements are the perfect spots for first-time visitors to Paris! You’ll be just steps away from some of the city’s most famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, Parc du Champ de Mars, Les Invalides, Musée Rodin, the incredible Musée d’Orsay, and the cutting-edge Musée du Quai Branly, just to name a few. With its beautiful architecture and the charming market street Rue Cler, you’ll experience the quintessential Paris that everyone dreams of. Plus, the 7th and 8th are one of the best neighborhoods for a leisurely stroll.
My Favorite Hotels in the 7th and 8th
c. The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th: Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Shopping
The Marais Neighborhood
The Marais, with its roots in the 17th century when noblemen built grand mansions here, is located in Paris’s 3rd and 4th arrondissements. Once the haunt of the old nobility, it has become a lively and popular area known for its trendy boutiques, restaurants, and amazing museums.
Le Marais is perfect for shopping, offering everything from chic boutiques with local Parisian designers to French chains, international brands, and upscale shops. It caters to both men and women at almost every price point. While most tourists head to Galeries Lafayette, stylish Parisians love to shop at BHV (Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville).
Make sure to visit the Musée Carnavalet, which is all about the history of Paris. Le Marais is also home to the Musée Picasso, with its incredible collection of works by the famous artist. Don’t forget to explore the tiny Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, where the history of Paris began. And definitely check out the peaceful Place Dauphine on Île de la Cité, with its charming cafés and restaurants.
The Sentier Neighborhood
Even though the 2nd arrondissement is the smallest of Paris’s 20 districts and often overlooked by many guidebooks, it’s packed with fascinating things to see and do. Explore the city’s largest concentration of 19th-century glass-roofed arcades, like Galerie Vivienne, Passage du Grand-Cerf, and Passage Choiseul. Enjoy dining at the popular Asian restaurants along Rue Sainte-Anne, and pick up cheese, wine, and baguettes on the charming pedestrian-only Rue Montorgueil market street. Don’t miss Stohrer, the oldest bakery still in operation in Paris, founded in 1730 by Louis XV’s pastry chef.
At the eastern end of the 2nd arrondissement, you’ll discover the Sentier neighborhood. It still has many wholesale textile stores and garment manufacturers, but they’re now sharing space with trendy bistros, bars, and upscale hotels. Sentier is one of the best neighborhoods to experience Paris like a local!
My Favorite Hotels in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th
- Grands Boulevards Experimental
- Maison Proust, Hotel & Spa La Mer
- The Hoxton Paris
- Hotel Le Grand Mazarin
d. The 5th and 6th: Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Families
The 6th arrondissement, located on the Left Bank (“Rive Gauche”), is home to the delightful Saint-Germain-des-Prés quarter, the Latin Quarter, and the Luxembourg Gardens. Both the 5th and 6th arrondissements are highly central and perfect for families, with great playgrounds and easy access to shops, sites, and restaurants. Family-friendly highlights include the National Museum of Natural History and the lovely Jardin des Plantes.
The 5th arrondissement has a quieter, village-like vibe, even though it’s very central and not as well-connected by metro. The 6th arrondissement is more artistic, brimming with art galleries, antique shops, and some of the city’s best small art museums. You’ll also find the impressive Musée de Cluny and two of Paris’s most famous cafés, Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots.
My Favorite Hotels in the 5th and 6th
e. The 9th and 18th: Most Romantic Neighborhoods in Paris
Fans of the French movie Amélie will fall in love with Montmartre, Paris’s charming 18th arrondissement. This picturesque area is dotted with quirky brasseries, parks, and cobbled streets, just like in the film—don’t miss Café des Deux Moulins at 15 rue Lepic. In the 19th century, Montmartre was a favorite spot for artists and bohemians like Monet, Renoir, Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. With its stunning views and quaint, village-like charm, it’s the perfect place for a honeymoon or romantic outing. Make sure to visit the Sacré Coeur for one of the best views of Paris.
Right next door is the 9th arrondissement, a bit more central and packed with gems like the historic Palais Garnier opera house, museums, and theaters. The former red-light district, Pigalle, has transformed into the trendy SoPi (South Pigalle), a fantastic spot for foodies. Be sure to stroll down Rue Notre Dame de Lorette and check out the Musée de la Vie Romantique.
My Favorite Hotels in the 9th and 18th
- Hotel Pulitzer Paris
- Maison Souquet, Hotel & Spa
- Hotel Bienvenue
- Soho House Paris
- Chouchou Hôtel
- Hôtel Filigrane & Spa
- Hôtel Monsieur Aristide
- Hôtel Rochechouart
Areas to Avoid in Paris
The 15th, 16th, and 17th arrondissements are wonderful and safe areas, but they are more residential. So, if you want to be in a central location with easy access to shops, sites, and restaurants, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.
Paris is generally a safe city, but there are a few spots you might want to avoid during your visit:
- Gare du Nord / Gare de l’Est area at night.
- Porte de Montreuil area in the 20th district, especially in the Saint Blaise neighborhood.
- Northern parts of the 18th and 19th districts, including areas around Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle, La Chapelle, Porte de Clignancourt, Porte de la Villette, Barbès, Goutte D’Or, Chateau Rouge, and Stalingrad. However, Montmartre is safe both day and night. Pigalle is also safe, though you might feel a bit uncomfortable with the adult shops if you’re with kids.
- Around Châtelet Les Halles at night.
- Bois de Boulogne: This park is lovely and perfectly safe during the day when it’s bustling with activity, but it’s best to avoid it after dark.
3. Eat Like a Local in Paris
Below are some tips to help you eat like a local in Paris and avoid the tourist traps.
8 Rules to Eat Like a Local in Paris
- Skip restaurants with English menus: If the menu is in English, it’s probably targeting tourists. The food might not be great, and the prices will be higher.
- Avoid tourist areas for meals: Steer clear of dining near major monuments and tourist-heavy spots. Instead, wander through quieter neighborhoods and find local bistros, brasseries, and restaurants.
- Book ahead: The best restaurants in Paris fill up fast, so make your reservations a few months or weeks before your trip.
- Know when to eat: In Paris, lunch (“le service du midi”) is usually from 12 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner (“le service du soir”) is from 7:30 PM to 11 PM. If you’re hungry in between, pop into a patisserie or boulangerie for a tasty snack ;).
- Try the “formule du midi”: This is a “prix-fixe” (fixed-price) lunch menu available on weekdays. It offers a choice of appetizer and main course (“entrée + plat”), main course and dessert (“plat + dessert”), or all three courses. You can often get a two or three-course meal for under €20.
- Ask for the “plat du jour”: This is the daily special and usually a good bet for a delicious meal.
- Don’t be shy about asking for a “doggie bag”: While it’s not common in Paris, it’s better than wasting food.
- Service charge is included: The service charge is already included in your bill, so you don’t need to tip extra. However, if you’ve had great service, leaving a small tip (around 2%-5% of the total) is always appreciated.
Bistros, Brasseries vs Bouillons
Do you know the difference between a bistro, a brasserie, and a bouillon? Let me break it down for you ;)! Bistros are often cozy, family-owned spots where Monsieur is in the kitchen cooking up delicious, traditional French dishes, while Madame takes care of the dining room and keeps an eye on the cash register. Sometimes the roles are reversed, but you get the idea. Bistros are usually moderately priced and offer a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Some bistros are so good they even earn Michelin stars and are known as “bistronomiques” (a blend of “bistro” and “gastronomique”).
Brasseries are a bit different. They originated in Alsace, and the word “brasserie” actually means “brewery” in French. These places were either attached to breweries or owned by them. Brasseries are typically large, lively, and bustling with energy. They have extensive menus and always have beer on tap.
Finally, a bouillon is a charming type of traditional Parisian restaurant that dates back to 1860. It was created by a butcher named Pierre-Louis Duval, who wanted to serve affordable hot meals to the workers at the old Les Halles market. Over the years, bouillons expanded their menus and started attracting even the bourgeoisie. These places are easily recognized by their Art Nouveau decor, featuring a cozy front room with a bar and a large rear room topped with a skylight. Although many bouillons have closed over time, Parisians still love these iconic eateries. Some of the most beloved bouillons in Paris are Bouillon Chartier in Faubourg Montmartre, Bouillon Julien in Faubourg Saint-Denis, and Bouillon Pigalle in Boulevard de Clichy.
My Favorite Places to Eat in Paris
If you want to eat in Paris like a local, check out some of my favorite spots for lunch and dinner. These places are loved by Parisians and aren’t usually crowded with tourists.
- La Poule au Pot (1st Arr.)
- Poulette (1st Arr.)
- La Grappe D’Or (2nd Arr.)
- Les Enfants du Marché (inside the Marché des Enfants-Rouges, 3rd Arr.)
- Café des Musées (3rd Arr.)
- Xavier Denamur’s Restaurants (all homemade, or “fait maison”): Les Philosophes (4th Arr.), L’Etoile Manquante (4th Arr.), La Chaise Au Plafond (4th Arr.), Le Petit Fer A Cheval (4th Arr.)
- La Rôtisserie d’Argent (5th Arr.)
- Chez Gladines Saint-Germain (5th Arr.)
- Café Constant (7th Arr.)
- Café de la Paix (9th Arr.)
- Grand Café Capucines (9th Arr.)
- Le Bouillon Chartier (9th Arr.)
- Les Arlots (10th Arr.)
- Septime (11th Arr.)
- Le Servan (11th Arr.)
- Le Chateaubriand (11th Arr.)
- Bistrot Paul Bert (11th Arr.)
- Le Petit Village (17th Arr.)
- Mamma Primi (17th Arr.)
- Le Bouillon Pigalle (18th Arr.)
4. The Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Paris
If you want to truly experience Paris like a local, here are the ten best non-touristy things to do in the city.
Flâner in the Streets of Paris
The best way to experience Paris like a local is to stroll (“flâner” in French) and let yourself get lost in the City of Light. Walking is the best way to soak in the magic of Paris. Start at Pont de Bir-Hakeim for a gorgeous view of the Eiffel Tower and make your way towards it. Keep going along the Seine to see iconic bridges like Pont Alexandre III, amazing museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, and the charming islands of Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis.
Take the Time to Enjoy Your Coffee
There’s nothing quite like sitting in a café and watching the world go by, and Paris is the perfect place for it. Parisians love heading to a café alone, so don’t be shy! Find a cozy bistro or café, order an espresso or an “allongé” (with a glass of water on the side), and take some time to people-watch. You’ll be surrounded by locals chatting, and just enjoying the Parisian vibe. It’s a wonderful way to soak up the city’s atmosphere and feel like a true local.
Visit Small Historic Museums
While the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Pompidou Centre, and other major museums are must-sees, exploring some of Paris’s lesser-known museums can make you feel like a local. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Musée de la Vie Romantique: This charming museum is housed in a beautiful hôtel particulier from 1830.
- Musée Jacquemart-André: Step inside an opulent 19th-century mansion and explore its treasures.
- Le Petit Palais: Built for the 1900 World Fair and turned into a museum in 1902, it’s a delightful small museum that’s easy to enjoy in an hour.
- Musée de Montmartre: This historic house, once home to artists like Renoir, dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest in the arrondissement.
- Musée Rodin: Wander through a lovely garden filled with the artist’s stunning sculptures.
- Le Musée de l’Hôtel de la Marine: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into France’s naval history and showcases exquisite 18th-century decor.
- Musée Gustave-Moreau: Step into the former home and studio of the Symbolist painter Gustave Moreau.
- Les Grandes Serres du Jardin des Plantes: There, you’ll find a rich collection of exotic plants from around the world. It’s a peaceful oasis perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the city’s hustle.
Stroll the Markets
If you want to experience Paris like a local, visiting the open-air markets is a must! Here are a few of my favorites:
- Marché des Enfants Rouges (3rd arr.): The oldest market in Paris, dating back to 1615.
- Marché Saxe-Breteuil (7th arr.)
- Marché President-Wilson (16th arr.)
- Le Marché Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arr.)
- Marché aux Fleurs on the Île de la Cité (1st arr.)
These markets are perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere, finding fresh produce, and discovering unique treasures.
Head to Paris’s Many Parks
While Paris might not have as many green spaces as some other European capitals, it still boasts several fantastic parks. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
- Parc des Buttes Chaumont (19th arr.): Don’t miss the delightful guinguette Rosa Bonheur.
- Parc Monceau (8th arr.)
- Jardin des Tuileries (1st arr.)
- Jardin du Luxembourg (6th arr.)
These parks are charming and filled with greenery, making them the perfect spots to hang out, relax, and enjoy a good book.
Enjoy the View from Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace
When you visit Galeries Lafayette, one of the oldest shopping spots in Paris, don’t miss the rooftop terrace. Up there, you can soak in the magic of the city, admire the stunning architecture, and get a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower—all without the crowds. It’s truly one of the best panoramic views of Paris!!
Enjoy a Picnic Along the Seine
In the summer, Parisians love to picnic along the banks of the Seine. If you want to experience Paris like a local, head to a supermarket and grab some picnic essentials like French cheese, charcuterie, wine, and baguettes. Then, find a cozy spot along the Seine. One of my favorite spots is Place Louis Aragon on the Île Saint-Louis ;).
Buy Unique Souvenirs at Saint-Ouen’s Flea Market
Every Saturday to Monday, Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world’s largest antique market, comes alive. Vendors offer everything from 18th-century dressers and old, leather-bound novels to furniture, jewelry, toys, books, decor, and all sorts of quirky treasures. It’s the perfect spot to find unique Parisian souvenirs. Just keep in mind it can get pretty crowded in the early afternoons on weekends.
Go Shopping at Paris’s Concept Stores
Since Colette closed, concept stores have been popping up all over Paris. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Merci: The most famous concept store in Paris and one of the largest, Merci has everything French, from soap brands to handbags and linen labels.
- Fleux: With six stores spread over 1,500 square meters, Fleux is a treasure trove of lifestyle, design, and decoration items, including furniture, lighting, tableware, clothing, fashion accessories, and high-tech gadgets.
- Empreintes: Located in the Upper Marais, this 600-square-meter store with four floors offers over 1,000 objects, including many rare and limited-edition pieces.
- Frenchtrotters: This shop has the perfect Parisian wardrobe essentials.
If you love department stores, Parisians prefer Printemps, BHV Marais (Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville), and Le Bon Marché over Galeries Lafayette.
Wander Through Beautiful Covered Galleries
Here are a few of the best-covered galleries in Paris:
- Galerie Vivienne (2nd arr.): An upscale dining and shopping area adorned in golden hues.
- Passage des Panoramas (2nd arr.): Considered the first covered walkway in Paris.
- The Passage Brady (10th arr.): Also known as “Little India” for its abundance of Indian shops and restaurants.
- Passage du Grand-Cerf (2nd arr.)
- Passage Verdeau (3rd arr.)
- Passage des Princes (2nd arr.)
These galleries are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering unique shopping and dining experiences in beautiful, historic settings.
5. Paris Safety Tips
Here’s my guide to staying safe while enjoying Paris and navigating the city like a local. Paris is generally safe, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fake Taxis: Watch out for people offering cheap rides to the city center when you arrive. These are often scams that end up costing you double. Always choose a car with an official “Taxi Parisien” sign.
- Preferred Taxis: Stick to G7 Taxis instead of regular Parisian taxis or Uber. Some taxi and Uber drivers can be less than friendly, sometimes taking longer routes or dropping you off at the wrong spot.
- Street Harassment: Men in Paris can sometimes be less polite than in other countries, occasionally whistling or staring. If you find yourself in a sketchy area, you might get approached, so stay alert.
- ATM Safety: Be cautious when withdrawing cash, especially if there are groups of young people around. They might be looking to scam you.
- Gold Ring Scam: If you hear the sound of a metal ring hitting the ground, be wary. Someone might try to hand it to you and then demand payment, claiming you bought it.
- Fake Charity Collectors: Near the Eiffel Tower and other tourist spots, some people pretend to collect money for charity, often claiming it’s for the deaf and mute. It’s usually a scam.
- Protests: Avoid areas with ongoing protests, typically at Place de la République, as things can get unpredictable.
- Café Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings in cafés. Valuables on tables and bags under tables can be easy targets for thieves.
- Metro Tickets: Always buy metro tickets from the official ticket counters and never from people selling them on the street.
- Bracelet Scams: In crowded areas, someone might try to tie a bracelet on your wrist and then demand payment. Just say no and walk away.
Et voilà! I hope this ultimate guide helps you experience Paris like a true local. If you have any questions or feel like I missed something, please drop a comment below. I’d love to hear from you! Enjoy your time in Paris :)!
Bonjour! I’m Léonce, the founder of Léonce Chenal, a blog dedicated to French fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. I’m French, and I'm originally from a small town near Annecy. I launched Léonce Chenal in 2018 while working as a data analyst in London to share my love of effortless French style. After living in Paris, London, and Amsterdam, I’ve now settled in the beautiful city of Bordeaux. When I’m not writing, you’ll find me baking pâtisseries, exploring hidden museums, or searching for the perfect perfume. I hope this space brings a touch of beauté to your everyday life!
Thanks for the information. Unfortunately, the list of other small historic museums to visit is missing so I hope it can be restored.
I’m so sorry about that, Andrew! Thanks for letting me know. The list of other small historic museums has been restored :)!
Hi. Thank you for this article. We are traveling to Europe this summer and will end up in Paris right before the Olympics. I am very nervous about this and trying my best to plan well. You have reviews on many areas in Paris, but not the 15th Arrondissement. Can you give me any information about this area? Would also love guidance as to how to find reputable tour agencies.
Thank you so much.
It would be very helpful if you identified the photos in this article. Some places looked very attractive, but there is no way to know what or where they are.
Bonjour Alan, thank you very much for your feedback! I’ll update this article and identify the photo accordingly.
Great article. Thank you so much, will be referring to it a lot during my visit in a couple of weeks!!
My family and I will be traveling to London and Paris during my daughter’s winter break. I have to say, out of all of the articles I’ve read about traveling to and throughout Paris, yours has been the one that has made me the most excited to visit. Your perspective on what to do is so refreshing! I appreciate the suggestions you made, it definitely has me sprinkling in “off the beaten path” spots to make our trip not feel SO touristy.
Bonjour Sydney, thank you so very much for your kind feedback <3 I'm really glad to hear that you liked my suggestions on what to do in Paris! I wish you a lovely family trip 🙂
Leonce, I’m from the states & plan to come to Paris in October with a group of eight friends. We’re doing a Viking river cruise, originating in Paris & ending up Zurich. I only wish we could spend more time in Paris. I really enjoyed your webpage, & all the information & advice you shared for first time visitors. Anyway, I’m looking forward to our trip & doing a lot of the things that you recommend while in the “City Of Lights”. Bruce C. North Carolina
Thank you so much for this wonderful guide – I am going to use many of these tips during my trip next month. 🙂
Thank you Theresa!!
Thank you