Visiting Paris is a delightful experience, and having been there numerous times, I continually receive inquiries from friends and family regarding what to do, where to eat, and ideas for local shopping. Moreover, with the recent Olympics concluded and Paris in the spotlight, I have compiled a comprehensive weekend itinerary to enhance your trip.
Planning Your Visit to Paris
Before diving into the exciting itinerary, consider these essential tips for your visit:
-
Optimal Arrival Time: If possible, plan your arrival on Thursday and stay through the weekend, as many museums, shops, and restaurants tend to close on Sundays and Mondays. The best seasons for visiting are from March to May and September to October, when crowds are thinner and the weather is pleasant.
-
Airport Transfers: Most international flights will land at Charles de Gaulle Airport. You can easily take the direct RER B train, which connects to several major stations in Paris, including Gare du Nord, offering excellent city-wide transit options.
-
Getting Around: Utilizing the Metro and RER trains is the quickest way to navigate Paris. Consider downloading the RATP and IDF Mobilité apps for journey planning. For economical travel, the Navigo Easy card is recommended; you can obtain this card at Metro and RER stations or through the RATP app. Additionally, cycling is an excellent option, with many bike rental services available throughout the city.
-
Packing Tips: Ensure to bring suitable clothing based on your travel season and activities planned.
Thursday: Latin Quarter, Ile de Paris, Charonne
Morning: Begin your Parisian adventure with a stop at Mokonuts Bakery for a delightful coffee and a sweet treat. This bustling café is loved by locals for its chewy cookies, offering flavors like miso-sesame or chocolate chip.
Day Activities: Stroll across the Seine to the historic Latin Quarter. Explore the bouquinistes, the open-air booksellers active since the 19th century. Visit the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookstore, where you’re encouraged to linger and read in cozy sections of the shop. Following that, you can explore Notre Dame Cathedral, which will be fully open to the public by December 2024, or visit the Conciergerie, known for its medieval architecture and art exhibitions. On sunny days, enjoy an iced coffee at Café Nuances and relax in the beautiful Jardins des Tuileries nearby.
Dinner: Dinner at Septime, renowned for its exquisite French cuisine, is highly recommended, although keep in mind it can get busy without reservations. Alternatively, try Waly Fay for delicious Senegalese dishes or Bistrot Paul Bert for classic steak frites.
Friday: Le Marais, Oberkampf
Morning: Start your Friday with an early stroll through Le Marais, taking in its charming medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the stunning Place des Vosges. For breakfast, try Christophe Louie for a unique cacio e pepe sandwich paired with rose brioche.
Your Day Begins: Le Marais feels vibrant and artistic—think cafes, galleries, and boutiques. Spend time checking out unique stores, and when lunchtime arrives, head to Chez Janou or enjoy a charcuterie board at The Butcher of Paris.
Afterward, visit the free museums nearby, including Musée Carnavalet, which showcases Parisian history and boasts a lovely bookstore, and Maisons Victor Hugo, celebrating the life of the iconic poet.
Dinner: For dinner options, Le Marais has several delightful eateries. If lucky enough, try dining at Parcelles or enjoy natural wine and snacks at the quaint La Buvette wine bar, followed by a meal at Le Servan, known for its ever-changing menu.
Saturday: St-Ouen, Montmartre, Belleville
Morning: Visit Marché aux Puces St-Ouen, the largest flea market globally, located on the outskirts of Paris. Arrive early for the best experience and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee at La Chope des Puces before exploring various stalls filled with vintage treasures and unique finds.
Spend Your Day: Next, take the Metro to Montmartre and visit significant sites like Picasso’s old studio and the Musée de Montmartre. Immerse yourself in the artistic charm of this historic district while discovering delightful cafes for lunch.
Evening Activities: Belleville is an excellent spot for the evening, starting with creative cocktails at Combat. For dinner, choose from a range of flavorful options at local favorites such as L’Orillion or Candide. Finally, wrap up your evening with live music at Studio de l’Ermitage or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Hasard Ludique, a lively bar and dance hall.
This guide has been prepared to ensure you have a memorable weekend in Paris. Enjoy the rich culture, delectable cuisine, and charming atmosphere that only this marvelous city can offer.
