Paris may be the city of love, but it has more to offer than kissing in front of the Eiffel tower while slurping escargot. So, we’ve put together a guide for a perfect weekend in Paris that doesn’t include the Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, or the Louvre.
If you’ve never seen any of these landmarks before you should definitely visit them, but for a more seasoned Parisian, keep reading for some lesser known hotspots in this beautiful city.
Montmartre
Okay, this one may still be a little cliché, but it’s a classic for a reason! Take a beautiful stroll to Montmarte and fall in love with the cobbled streets, arched windows and romantic streets filled with delicious food and excellent coffee. Learn about the much-loved icon of Paris, Dalida, and see the bronze statue that was built in her honor in Montmarte. You’ll see a lesser known side to Paris’s celebrity culture, and fall in love with Dalida’s tale of heartbreak and tragedy.
Then, head to Cafe de Luce for a relaxing lunch. This cafe is tucked away from the buzz of Montmarte, but is still central enough for you to enjoy people-watching and soaking up the sunshine. Order one of their open croissants, filled with delicious creamy sauces.
And, of course, make sure to visit Le Maison Rose to get a picture in front of this adorable pink and green cottage.
Pont Neuf
Of course, you have to see the river Seine during your visit to Paris, and strolling across the Pont Neuf is the best way to do that. The Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge in Paris, and was originally known as the heart of the city during the Medieval times.
Palais-Royal Garden
For Netflix fans, we’d recommend taking a walk through the Palais-Royal Garden, otherwise known as the Garden of the Royal Palace. Here, you can enjoy beautiful fountains, bursting rose bushes, and even sit on the exact bench where Emily first met Mindy in the hit series Emily in Paris. It’s also where Mindy gave an iconic impromptu singing performance, and you can see other performers yourself during your visit.
Partisan
By now, you’re probably craving a caffeine hit after all that walking! Head to where the locals get their coffee, Partisan. This cafe usually has a queue due to their popularity, but their service is fast and everybody in there is a local – they just know it’s the best!
Aside from their great coffee and speedy service, their selection of cakes and pastries are to die for. Make sure to try their banana bread before you leave!
Bourse de Commerce
If you’re feeling intellectual, head to the Bourse de Commerce and see what exhibitions they have on. This circular museum always has something fascinating on display, but even if the exhibition doesn’t take your fancy, the view from the inside will. The glass ceiling and painted decoration is something to marvel at, and it provides a panoramic view from every direction.
Experimental cocktail club for drinks
Time for a drink! If you’re feeling brave, head to the Experimental Cocktail Club. The moody atmosphere and low tables make it the perfect place to channel your inner sophisticated Parisien alter-ego, and soon you’ll be sipping espresso martinis with the locals. You can either choose something from their menu, or tell the bartender about your favourite flavours and preferences. They’ll whip up something just for you! Santé!
Dinner at Poulette
You can’t leave Paris without indulging in a perfect steak frites, and Poulette has the best there is to offer. A small, intimate restaurant lit by candlelight, with marble pillars, painted walls and gilded mirrors, this restaurant is the perfect spot for celebration and romance.
Of all the destinations in Paris, this is one that you’ll definitely revisit again and again.
Rue de Tinquetonne
Finally, it’s time to go dancing! While there are plenty of glamorous places in Paris to go out, we’re fond of Maze on the Rue de Tiquetonne. By day, this bar offers sake cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere, but by night it turns into a bustling hotspot for dancing, partying and live music performances. Semi-underground, you’ll feel as if you’ve discovered one of Paris’s best kept secrets after a night out at Maze.
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