Paris
24 Hours in Paris: A Mini Guide to The Chic and Dazzling City of Paris
Paris—the city of love, art, and endless croissants. To experience Paris in 24 hours is no easy feat, but if you’re willing to trade sleep for magic, you’re in for an unforgettable day. From chic cafes to awe-inspiring landmarks, this mini guide will help you touch the heart of this dazzling city without falling into the usual tourist traps. Let’s explore Paris in style!
Morning: A Delightful Start at Café de Flore
Kickstart your day at Café de Flore, one of Paris’s most iconic spots. This historic café has hosted the likes of Sartre, Picasso, and Chanel, so you’ll be in good company while sipping your morning coffee. Grab a pain au chocolat and people-watch as Parisians make their way to work. Interesting tidbit: Café de Flore’s upstairs section has been reserved for intellectuals and artists for decades, so maybe you’ll catch an idea for the next great novel while you’re here.
Mid-Morning: The Louvre Without the Lines
Next, stroll towards The Louvre, but skip the overwhelming museum tour. Instead, admire the Louvre's stunning architecture and snap a photo with the iconic glass pyramid. Wander through the Tuileries Gardens, soaking up the serene atmosphere and giving yourself a moment to breathe in the city's essence. If you’re craving art, check out the smaller, lesser-known Musée de l’Orangerie for a glimpse at Monet’s famous Water Lilies without battling the crowds.
Interesting fact: The Louvre was originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century—talk about a building with history!
Lunch: Chic and Affordable at Chez Janou
By midday, head over to the chic Chez Janou in the Le Marais district for a lunch that combines style and affordability. Famous for its authentic Provençal cuisine and charming ambiance, Chez Janou serves a mouth-watering chocolate mousse that’s larger than life—literally. You might not finish it, but you’ll leave with bragging rights for trying. Pro tip: Make a reservation to avoid the crowd.
Afternoon: A Glimpse of Parisian Grandeur at Place Vendôme
After lunch, it’s time to window shop in style at Place Vendôme, the epitome of Parisian luxury. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like royalty, this is the place. Wander past designer boutiques and the Ritz Paris, imagining the likes of Princess Diana and Coco Chanel walking these very streets. Interesting fact: Napoleon Bonaparte erected the central column in Place Vendôme, modeled after Trajan’s Column in Rome, as a tribute to his army’s victory at the Battle of Austerlitz.
Late Afternoon: Montmartre for the Soul
For the late afternoon, take a quick ride to Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. Here, artists sell their works on cobblestone streets, and the views from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica are nothing short of breathtaking. While Montmartre’s charm could easily steal your entire day, make sure to save some time for a quick sketch from a local artist (or just buy one and call it a day). Fun fact: Montmartre was once home to Picasso and Van Gogh, and traces of their artistic legacy can still be felt in the air.
Dinner: Romance and Elegance at Le Jules Verne
Wrap up your whirlwind Parisian day with dinner at Le Jules Verne, the Michelin-starred restaurant nestled within the Eiffel Tower. The food? Divine. The view? Out of this world. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city’s twinkling lights as you indulge in French delicacies like foie gras and truffle risotto. Interesting detail: The restaurant’s kitchen is equipped with a special elevator just for ingredients to keep the fresh produce flowing smoothly to your plate.
Night: A Moonlit Stroll by the Seine
Before you bid adieu to Paris, take a moonlit stroll along the Seine River. The twinkling lights, the soft murmur of the water, and the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower in the distance—this is the stuff that postcards are made of. Paris in 24 hours may be fast-paced, but moments like these are timeless.
A Day to Remember
Exploring Paris in 24 hours gives you just a taste of the magic this city has to offer. With its hidden gems, rich history, and an endless supply of croissants, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for its chic allure. So, next time you find yourself with just a day to spare, skip the long lines and dive into Paris like a local, even if just for 24 hours.
Airbnb
Airbnb in Paris
First, be sure to download Airbnb.com. The app has been a game changer for travelers. It's a database that connects travelers with affordable accommodations in local neighborhoods. Voyagers can bunk in with locals, or rent luxurious apartments and houses. A rental will offer kitchen space and is often a nicer experience than most ritzy hotels.
Good Morning Paris
goodmorning paris
9:00 am: After a good night's sleep, it's time to get ready for the day! The fashion in Paris has shifted from elaborate to effortless. In the winter throw on boyfriend jeans, a t-shirt, booties, a light coat, and statement earrings if you are feeling fancy. In the summer, a simple sundress is just the thing. Parisians have a smooth, simple style. A French friend once observed, "Parisians might take hours in the bathroom getting ready, but you would never know it because they try so hard to look effortless." Ironic? Perhaps. However, this effortless style and minimalist fashion is what makes the French look timelessly chic.
Enjoy a Local Cafe
Local cafe shop in Paris
10:00 am: Check-out a local cafe for a quick espresso and a pastry. If the French knows one thing, it's how to make a perfect croissant, and little, family-run bakeries can be found on almost every street corner. If you are craving eggs or crepres, La Fontaine de Belleville is a great spot for a heartier breakfast. While you relish your first meal, enjoy people-watching as Paris comes to life.
La Fontaine de Belleville, 31-33 Rue Juliette Dodu, 75010 Paris, France
Le Marais
Le Marais Paris
10:30 am: Checkout Le Marais for a unique shopping experience. The vintage stores and small boutiques offer endless window shopping. Watch for stores such as AllSaints and Sandro. The cafes are adorable and feature colorful macaroons and decadent sweets. The Jewish and gay community are prominent here, and boast amazing food with a mixture of old and contemporary French culture.
Vintage Désir, 32 rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France
Saint Germain
Shakespeare & Company in Paris
12:00 pm: Head over to Saint Germain to continue bistro hopping, and browsing gorgeous storefronts. Strolling around this area, you never know what might be in store. Shakespeare & Company is a legendary bookstore that has been open for 63+ years, and is owned by a father/daughter duo. The shop is always busy, boasting the best selection of books with gorgeous re-done cover art. If you forgot your vacation book or are in need of another, drop-in to this bookstore and you will not be disappointed. Stroll over to the Seine, which runs adjacently, and enjoy a read in the sunshine.
Shakespeare and Company, 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France
Enjoy Some Local Art
Louis Vuitton Foundation Museum in Paris
1:30 pm: Although the famous Louvre has the Mona Lisa, and many astounding works of art the line will take hours. Instead, locals enjoy the chic Louis Vuitton Foundation Museum, designed by the renowned Frank Gehry. With ever changing exhibitions, this cultural center holds amazing artworks, ranging from local artists to creators all over the world. It is easy to spend hours discovering every nook and cranny this Parisian gem has to offer.
Louis Vuitton Foundation, Bois de Boulogne, 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 75116 Paris, France
Enjoy The Eiffel Tower Without The Crowd
Le Georges Eiffel Tower in Paris
4:00 PM: When visiting the Eiffel tower, one can easily waste a lot of money and time in line. Luckily, there are other options. Instead, grab an early drink and appetizer at Le Georges. Experience fine dining while taking in the magnificent views of the tower, without the hustle and bustle. Although you can expect to spend a little more in this area, a couple of 14 euro drinks, while taking in a world-famous building, is well worth the price.
Le Georges, The Centre Pompidou, Palais Beaubourg, Place Georges Pompidou, 75000 Paris, France
Taste All That Paris Has To Offer
Visit Le Procope restaurant in Paris
6:00 PM: Head back to the house, perhaps squeeze in an afternoon siesta, before getting ready for dinner. The French eat earlier than is common in Spain or Italy. Visit Le Procope for a classical Parisian dining experience. Prices are affordable and it is known among restaurant goers that Napoleon, Thomas Jefferson, and Ben Franklin have all frequented this eatery. It is even rumored that Napoleon did not pay his bill, and instead left his hat as collateral. With so much history, dining here is a magical experience, and the standard French food is enjoyable.
Drunk On Paris
Bubar Cocktail Bar in Paris
8:00 PM: If you still have energy to spare, head to Bubar for a cocktail. Located in Le Marais, this quaint bar has wines from all over the world. Chances are the owner, a warm and jovial Frenchmen will be making his rounds. Locals and tourists alike flock to this destination for its old world, cozy feel. It’s also played host to some funky electric jams over the years.
Bubar, 3 Rue des Tournelles, 75004 Paris, France
love in Paris The Eiffel Tower
Voila! No matter where you choose to go and what you choose to see, Paris is known as the city of poets and romance for good reason.
(0) comments
We welcome your comments
Log In
Post a comment as Guest
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.