Photo taken on an OPPO smartphone
There’s no doubt Paris is one of the most romantic places in the world, but the city of love has far more to it than just a bridge filled with padlocks and couples dancing by moonlight along the Seine.
The capital of France is to thank for some of the biggest fashion houses, which has trickled down to create a city filled with stylish inhabitants and to die for shops.
But perhaps the best thing to do in Paris? Eat. From beloved bistros to Parisian patisseries with lines out the door, there’s no denying the French know how to treat themselves.
Below, the fashion – and foodies – guide to Paris.
What to do
When visiting Paris for the first time, the number of sights to see can be daunting. Pop the Louvre (cross out at least 3 hours), the Notre-Dame, the Sacré-Coeur (it’s also worth exploring the surrounding streets of Montmartre), and, of course, the Eiffel Tower at the top of the list.
Spending an evening at the Moulin Rogue or on a river cruise of the Seine are also both popular and worthwhile activities.
Tip: Airbnb now offers Experiences, where you can book in for a guided tour of the Louvre, bike tours of the city or private river cruises from locals who know all the insider spots.
Where to stay
The most popular neighbourhoods in Paris are Le Marais (4th Arrondissement), known for great food, nightlife and shopping, Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement), known for chic cafes and art galleries, The Louvre (1st Arrondissement), filled with trendy boutiques and luxe hotels, and the 9th Arrondissement which is perfect for shopaholics.
For a more authentic look at the city, stay in one of the many Airbnb offerings – they often work out to be cheaper and far cuter – case in point – than a hotel room.
Where to eat
Paris is full of incredible restaurants, but if you’re there for a limited time it’s important to tick off a French bistro, a refurbished hotel, a patisserie, a falafel joint in Le Marais, and a crepe place. Pack baggy jeans, you’re going to need the extra waist room.
Below are our top picks.
French bistro: Restaurant Joséphine Chez Dumonet
Cool hotel: Hôtel Amour
Celeb spotting: Hôtel Costes and for drinks, Bar Hemingway
Falafel place:L’As du Fallafel
Patisserie: Du Pain et des Idées
Where to shop
For any seasoned shopper, Le Bon Marché – a shopping mall near the Eiffel Tower – is an absolute must-visit.
For a classic Paris shopping experience, follow Boulevard Saint Germain into the 6th arrondissement, filled with famous cafés – Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore (the one you’ve seen all over your Instagram) and Brasserie Lipp – plus high-end shopping.
Where to ‘gram
Let’s be honest, everyone’s after the perfect holiday snap and in Paris, everywhere is worthy of a photoshoot.
For a pic of a to-die-for pastry, head to Du Pain Et Des Idees. For the best food snap, Cafe de Flore. For Aperol spritz on a Parisian rooftop, Le Perchoir Marais. For the perfect balcony shot (Eiffel Tower included), Hotel Plaza Athenee.
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