Sound familiar? Well after the wonderful replies received from the London calling post, I got an email from a regular reader, Cheri, who is finally getting her wish of going to Paris in May. Now that I have gotten over my happiness, jealousy, I am happy to help her plan her trip! Being its one of my most favorite cities on earth, I was happy to oblige when she asked if I might consider doing a similar post on Paris.
Any country that makes me feel obligated to indulge in a croissant and crusty bread on a regular basis makes it straight to the top of my list! I make no secret of my love for all things French so its with pleasure I present "Paris calling". Cheri..this is for you! So to all who have been or who might even be lucky enough to reside in France, the floor is open for any and all suggestions on just about anything. Just a few ideas to get you started below. And to start I am going to leave my own comment about some personal highlights for me. Thanks in advance to all my readers for your help, expertise and your wonderful generous spirit in sharing all that you know!! We could so start our own Fodors and then some! Here we go.....
Restaurants not to be missed..........
Must see and do "typical tourist attractions"
Magnificent museums...
Shopping must dos/sees/drools?
Authentic bistros or outdoor cafes?
Favorite hotel (s)?
Interesting customs worth noting.....
Special tours worth taking...
Favorite foods?
Markets to meander through?
If one day can be spent taking a day trip, where to go......
Thanks in advance to any information and helpful tips you want to add. I know it will be so appreciated by not only Cheri but many more too, if not inspire more than one of us (me included) to plan a trip to Paris ASAP. What a fabulous, inspirational and beautiful place! Mon Cheri, my friend, you are in for a wonderful treat! This post has me so wanting to be there too....nothing quite like Paris in the springtime!
BONJOUR MON AMIE!!!!!
ReplyDeleteOh, je suis la première ici!!
Oh, I could go on and on in French, for it is the language that I actually learned to write!
Dearest Tina, Paris is a must for you, woman. You would scream. But i do believe you have been there, right? I WOKE UP AT 2:15am this morning with YOU ON MY MIND. I was laying there just giggling over the fact that you are NOW IN THAT FABULOUS CASTLE OF YOURS and I am so happy for you. Thank you for visiting my post today; it is a dud in my estimation. I have been so busy with work and I am dedicated to writing WEEKLY, but last week I was simply unable to come up with a topic. This week, same issue. I need a trip to PARIS!!!!!!!
LOVE, Anita
I need a re-do of my trip to Paris. I quite possibly had the worst experience ever. I was in college when I went (2001). I spent a semester in London studying, and we took a week trip to Paris. The first night there it rained, and the elevators at the Eiffel Tower shorted out and we had to walk down. However, I slipped and fell down the first flight of stairs and broke my tailbone :-). It's funny...so laugh. It only took me 4-1/2 hours to walk all the way down after that. I didn't let it stop me though, I carried on. My doctor found it quite amusing that I fell down the eI-FFEL towel LOL. So I think I ddeserve a re-do ;-). So lesson learned here is hold on the hadnrails if you have to take the stairs at the Eiffel Tower
ReplyDeleteI think baesd upon the 2 times we were there that the French really appreciate if you try to speak French when asking them something, if they see you making the effort and they happen to speak english they will often tell you the answer in English but they seem to not like arrogant tourists who just assume they speak our language.
ReplyDeleteAgree with Tina, impossible to see it all the first go around, make your list of whats important, and make sure you leave time for down time to just explore. A guided tour to me is the best way to maximze your time as a first timer. Enjoy yourself, its a truly beautiful city.
Oh I so wish I could contribute...but sadly have never been. Someday.....I told my husband by our 20 year anniversary...I hope so! He just made partner in his law firm, so I'm optimistic :)
ReplyDeleteStacy
So many beautiful things to see & do in Paris, I would say one of the most impressive and memorable places to visit is Place des Vosges, the oldest & most beautiful planned square in the city, located in the Marais. I prefer the location of the Intercontinental Hotel, right across from Tuilleries Gardens, and 1/2 block from Rue Saint-Honore'. The main thing is to just walk, walk, walk. Memorize the layout of the city from GoogleEarth, take your smart phone along as a guidebook. Unless you are actually oriented in Paris, you will miss half the fun of understanding the city. Bon Voyage....
ReplyDeleteHi,
DeleteWe are having a sisters and mom trip in mid may. Wll the gardens be beautiful then? Thanks for your info...so helpful.
Bonny
Hi Tina- fun post. We have been to Paris three times, and each time it was a very different experience. First time as a family we did very family oriented things. Second time was for business for only 3 nights so we were locked in except for one night as to what we did and third time was just my husband and I for 6 wonderful days for my birthday/anniversary.
ReplyDeleteWe decided to go all out for one very special meal, no limits and went to Taillevent, we were wined and dined, took the somalliers suggestions and had the meal of a lifetime. I think its nice to do that for one special night. The others nights we dined in quaint local bistros and enjoyed those too.
I also love all of the museums and could spend every day in them (not so for my husband) we loved taking day trips and naturally enjoyed Versailles but my favorite was Monet's gardens and museum, it is so beautiful.
You can ask 100 people what to do and get 100 different replies, but thats part of what makes its such a special city. Have marvelous time.
Wouldn't it be fabulous if a bunch of bloggers could go together to visit this magical place? My bil is there on business all the time. It is old hat to him now- I am so jealous~ xo Diana
ReplyDeleteOnly there once, and what a week it was. I cannot wait to go back my daughter is studying abroad in the fall so we have a trip planned in Oct. We stayed at a small boutique type hotel, Hotel Keppler which we loved and would recommend. We enjoyed winging it for meals and eating at small off the beaten path types of bistros and cafes, we are not fussy eaters. I loved visiting Notre Dame and The Lourvre, and we did visit Versailles which is just something you have to see.
ReplyDeleteAlso enjoyed a few flea/antique markets, the concierge recommended them to us, I don't remember the names but they were so much fun and I do recommend you asking your concierge about what markets are going on at the time you will be there.
Alexandra studied at the Louvre for a month while she was in college. Kenny, Graham and I came over when she finished with her classes. It was amazing. I flew in a week early so we could have some girl time. I wish I could remember all we did. It was her time to show us "her city". We often talk about going back together. I think we will. This post is certainly giving me lots of ideas.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! I can't believe this because I am going to Paris in May also! My husband gave me the trip as a 40th anniversary gift! We are staying in an apartment on Ile St Louis for a week! I have dear friends who have been 5 or 6 times and they have spent time with us telling us all the little spots they have found. I will be sharing some of their info over the next couple months...small little neighborhood museums being one nugget! I can't wait!!!
ReplyDeleteA bientot...
Lorraine
I must include some of the highlights for me of this favorite city.....We have been several times, it never gets old, only better. My two favorite hotels were the George V and Le Meurice. I might give the slightest edge to George V, but truly they are neck in neck. Restaurants in both wonderful, quite expensive and formal but definitely a special Parisian experience not to be missed! (if not for the glamorous people watching)
ReplyDeleteLoved visiting the Loire Valley for 2 days and of course all the touristy things like Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, Notre Dame, Vesailles,The Louvre are all "must sees". Favorite museum is Musee de Orsay. A walk through Les Tuileries gardens will remind you to pinch yourself that you are in Paris!
We enjoyed Bistro Lipp, Paul Bert and La Stella which to us felt like authentic bistros and the bakery Le Grenier a Pain which got voted as having the best baguette and I will attest to everything there being incredible though I didn't eat anything in Paris that I didn't' just love! (and we ate a lot) Also breakfast at Laduree, is wonderful!
Loved the Paris flea market but was overwhelmed when I saw how HUGE it was, I need a solid week to go back and take it all in. Have lunch in Baccarat in the crystal room.
For dept. stores Le Bon Marche is a classic Parisian dept store with a great gourmet market/food hall worth seeing, as is Galeries Lafayette,huge and very pretty! Visiting some of the famous boutiques like Hermes, Chanel,Louis Vuitton are classic French boutiques you have to pay homage to:)
Got to see the famous Shakespeare Antiquarian bookstore, which was fun….
One of my favorite things is just meandering through the beautiful streets, camera in hand as every inch is so inspirational and breathtaking. The magic of discovering is part of the fun, not having every thing planned out. And be sure, there is so much to see and do, you cannot possibly do it all the first time....a perfect excuse for a return visit!
Tina, you are killing us here! Making us "revisit" favorite places in the midst of WInter is lovely but also frustrates as I have no plans to go anywhere for the moment! But to Paris, I have been! Love all the comments because it reminds me of our anniversary visit . Stayed at the Hotel du Louvre - yes, your bedroom window can look out on the Louvre's majesty! Bring walking shoes, because a stroll along the Seine at dusk, or at ANY time, is so romantic and you can walk and walk and walk! Being a gardener, the highlight of the trip for me was Versailles, which was unforgettable and the absolute BEST day in France. I could spend a week there, just in the gardens. A taxi ride to Montmartre will give you a view over all of Paris and is a wonderful place for a walk through the village streets - artists set up their easels - wonderful! Once you've been there, Paris always calls to you to return! Revenez!
ReplyDeleteHow lovely! I've always wanted to visit Paris! Someday.....
ReplyDeleteWe went with another couple last year, our friend is a bonafide foodie, so it was fun getting to visit places and restaurants we normally wouldn't go to. My favorite was "Spring", its a really good restaurant but requires reservations far far in advance. Worth any effort, I promise.
ReplyDeleteAlso the Orsay is my favorite museum, its not as overwhelming at the Louvre but they are both wonderful.
We like walking everywhere we go, and going off the beaten path a little. Stayed at Hotel Lancaseter which we really liked a lot. Paris a great city and even if you went with no agenda, you are guaranteed to have a great time.
Guess what I just did??? Bookmarked this post for future references. This has to become a series, Tina!!! How fun!
ReplyDeleteHave a very blessed weekend, sweetie.
xo
Luciane at HomeBunch.com
PS: I'm doing great, but working too much! :-)
We went on a budget (somewhat) booked the whole trip through Orbitz and got a great rate. We didn't go the fancy route for restaurants but had good meals in local restaurants and bistros, grabbed fresh breads and croissants for breakfast and sat by the Seine on the warmer days with coffee, it was dreamy. Loved just taking in the sights and sounds of the city which you can only do by walking.
ReplyDeleteWe did go to the Louvre and Versailles. Did a little shopping at a local type flea market which was fun.
I think our best days there were when we grabbed lunch on the run, had our sneakers on and walked around the city taking pictures of all the beauty. (we are both amateur hobby photographers). You will certainly enjoy yourself no matter what you do.
Love that you are doing this. We are going to NY in April. Care to do a post on NY? Never been to Paris but we finally are going in November to attend a wedding of a family member. I am so excited and am going to save this post for all the wonderful ideas.
ReplyDeleteLove your blog. Thanks for putting a smile on my face every time I see you have a new post.
I have loved Paris since my first visit 35 years ago.......Marriott Champs-Elysees (if you turn left out the front door and turn left around the first corner there is a wonderful toy store with beautiful Corolle doll clothing); Versailles, perhaps a carriage ride while you are there, but you must also see the Grand Trianon and the Hameau de la Reine of Marie Antoinette while you are there; the Musee d'Orsay,Musee Marmottan Monet (the walk from the Metro is lovely); the Louvre (what remains of the French crown jewels are stunning)lunch in the Eiffel Tower, Cafe de Flore or Les Deux Magots, candle shopping at Diptyque......My one tip is you must say "Bonjour" upon your entry into any establishment...it is expected as a common courtesy for you to speak...and attempt a few words if you do not speak French...it will be appreciated. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!! Au revoir.
ReplyDeleteTina this is at the top of my dream list I plan to go in the fall,A trip to France, to the Burgundy region actually!
ReplyDeletePS I am so excited to see more images of your new abode!!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
What a fabulous post! It is a dream of mine to get to Paris someday. It will be wonderful to save all the great information sent if by people with the same interests as mine. This will be invaluable. Another dream spot would be to go to Belgium. Maybe you could do a post on that sometime.
ReplyDeleteThank you
Let's go!!! Happy weekend. XO, Mona
ReplyDeleteHello Tina! Oh may dear...Paris is always a great idea.
ReplyDeleteWhen I need inspiration I go to Paris come out with the batteries recharged! I was there last April!
In Paris we breathe culture! There are lots of monuments, palaces, museums, exhibitions, antique ...
My highlights goes to: Tea - macaroons at Ladurée (champs Elysees), Avenue Montaigne for big brands, shopping galleries Lafaytte VERSAILLES ... you must visit Versailles and Petit Trianon (Marie Antoinette domaine). There are so many other things ...
Hope this help!
At this moment here in europe (I'm in Portugal) we are at low temperatures ... brr brrr ... but ... I'm writing in my cozy living room.
Have a nice weekend, Ana Maria.
Check out Patricia Gray's posting on her blog today. It showcases her favorite Paris restaurants from a recent trip there. Photos included.
ReplyDeleteI really need to renew my passport!
ReplyDeleteHow exciting...my all time favorite city in the world!!! My husband surprised me with a trip to Paris for my 50th birthday. When we travel, we enjoy being with the locals, hitting the streets walking everywhere or taking the Metro. If you love to cook, E. Dehillerin is a must. It is a feast for the eyes and delightful! We purchased copper pots bringing them back in suitcases. Another stop for us was Pere Lachaise Cemetery which may sound odd but I have to say it is an incredibly beautiful resting place for many notables from Chopin to Jim Morrison. If you love architect and stone, this place will not disappoint. Besides the normal tourist spots, the churches are a must. St. Chapple and I would recommend catching a concert there in the evening, magical! Sacre-Coeur Basilica is another with incredible views of Paris. Behind Sacre-Coeur you will find another church, the oldest in Paris (1147), Pierre-de-Motmartre, beautiful with so much history. Bar Hemingway in The Ritz is a fun experience just to do. Bring a lot of cash...drinks are $30 US+! Bofingers in the Bastille is a wonderful, very french, comfortable restaurant. Rick Steves Paris is a great resource. What a great, wonderful time Cheri! Au revoir!
ReplyDeleteOh this sounds like a must trip~can you babysit my dogs?? I would love to walk the streets with my camera, and visit the brocantes. I think I might take a tour especially for antique hunters~wouldn't that be fun??
ReplyDeleteI have fond memories of my first trip to Paris in the late 70's. My husband and I stayed at Le Meurice and dined at Le Pre Catelan in Bois de Boulogne - yes, romantic! We purchased our first piece of art from a Gallery at Place du Tertre in Monmarte too.
ReplyDeleteFor a quiet retreat, the Hotel de l'Abbaye in St. Germaine is wonderful. For our last visit we just rented an apartment. Like Tina, my favorite museum is Musee d'Orsay and my favorite past time is people watching from just about any cafe/bistro in Paris! Enjoy your trip!
Tina,
ReplyDeleteHow fun. Jermaine over at French Kissed http://french-kissed.com/archives/11592 is taking reservations for a May Paris shopping trip for a small group. Her daughter lives in Paris and they promise to show us a behind the scenes view of Paris.
Karen
My daughter and I are going when she graduates from college. She has been before and can speak French, so I can wait! Look forward to seeing what everyone recommends.
ReplyDeleteHave anise weekend, Tina.
Teresa
xoxo
Hi discovered your blog recently and am loving it! Had to comment because we were in Paris for Christmas which was magical, even the cold didn't bother me! First time in Dec. every other time has been in spring or summer. We were at Le Meurice and I cannot say enough great things about it, love the location too.
ReplyDeleteWe enjoyed the museums the most as we are both lovers of art and history. We were in one literally every day.I loved visiting the Picasso museum and Rodin's as well, both smaller and can be done in an afternoon.
As many have said part of the beauty of Paris is strolling the streets and stumbling upon all kinds of great things from shops to restaurants to bakeries and markets. We stay away from the big dept. stores as living in Chicago we have our share of those and try to only do things that are exclusive to Paris.
For restaurants we live Vivant (great if you take wine seriously) Saturne, Bistrot Paul Bert are places we have gone to many times.
If I were to take a day trip it would be as a first timer to Versailles, and Monets gardens is a great day trip too. If you have more time, then going to the Loire Valley is a special treat and so is heading to Burgundy and Dijon ( a little closer). We have visited Paris many times as my brother was living there for many years until he moved back to the states to get married. So it gave us a great excuse to visit as often as our schedules would allow. We are hoping to work out a trip this summer to the south of France with our college aged children.
You are going to love Paris. As one commenter said--just walk, walk,walk--and take everything in. One suggestion, if you haven't already made your hotel reservations is to stay at the Hotel Splendid. It is a reasonably priced smaller hotel but the rooms on the end have a head-on view of the Eiffel Tower and you can watch the tower "twinkle" every night. Or, the last time we went we stayed in an apartment right around the corner from the Rue Cler. It was a wonderful experience too as you had Parisians comining and going and speaking with you. Our experience was that they were very friendly. My other key suggestion is to take at least one day trip outside the city to see some castles. We saw Cheverny, Chenoceau, and one other. Not only were the castles beautiful but you get to see the countryside. Have a fabulous time.
ReplyDeleteAlso, forgot to mention that all the bridges over the Seine now have locks hung on them by all the "lovers" in Paris. There are thousands and thousands, with names of people or their initials written on them. You should check it out because we talked with some Parisians and they said that they will all eventually have to be cut off because the city cannot maintain the bridges with them on there. But in the meantime, I thought it was incredibly romantic. You can check it out here - http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/lovelocks-return-to-the-bridges-of-paris-2293506.html. Just a silly thing but fun.
ReplyDeleteHi, Tina!
ReplyDeleteI think you just tempted me to go to Paris one day...
Have a wonderful trip, Cheri!
Have a nice day!
Bonjour!! For a first visit to Paris one must also walk into Notre-Dame! Breathtaking. Saint-Sulpice in the Luxembourg Quarter is our personal favorite though. Your photos and personal list Tina make me want to pop right over! While I love staying in the fabulous hotels there our favorites are actually the charming, small individually owned hotels. My heart beats faster just thinking of standing in the Louvre. I love that place. I also love the Cluny museum- if you love tapestries it is a must-see!
ReplyDeleteAu revoir,
joan
i am flipping out!!!
ReplyDeleteeveryone is posting about paris....
and there is no place i would rather be.
xx
Hi Tina,
ReplyDeleteI have only been once and had a great time seeing all of the sights but when it came to shopping, especially the flea markets I was completely overwhelmed. Seems like there were literally thousands of booths and having my sweet husband in the mix did not make it any better and of course neither of us speak French. Besides all of the suggestions others have given mine would be to check out the French Kissed blog and the shopping tours she and her darling daughter who lives in Paris are offering. A bit expensive but probably well worth it for this exclusive insiders look. I don't know if she is still offering them but the Paris Apartment Blog also did flea market shopping tours.
Cecelia
Hey there. I think that I am the first person that lives in France to respond! Where are you all? I now live in Provence but left NYC for Paris. There is so much excellent advice here. A lot depends on Cheri's budget and interests but for sure there are some basic ideas that apply to everyone. I actually recently read one of the most perfect "Paris from a Parisian's point of view" on Carla Coulson's excellent blog: Carla loves photography. She really nails it.
ReplyDeleteFor my part, I would start off by saying a few things--most importantly, rent an apartment!! No matter WHAT your budget from student to mega insane luxe with a majordomo, there is something out there for you and the experience is absolutely nothing compared to what you can have in a hotel. You LIVE Paris. Two other thoughts: start picking up some basic, basic French NOW (it it only the effort that counts) and sign up for the excellent newsletter, Secrets of Paris. I don't know the author, also named Heather, but certainly admire what she does.
Go small. Paris is a mysterious town of secret joys. I feel no need whatsoever to suggest the Louvre save if you need to have an Audrey Hepburn moment (those of you who love "Funny Face" will know what I mean) or as also suggested here, to see the bijou!! I love the Orsay and everyone is talking about the new renovation. If I had only one museum to see though, it would be L'Orangerie at the end of the day, walking out through the Jardins de Tuileries across the Pont des Arts and into St. Germain de Pres for dinner at someplace small and homey. Go to Chowhound for their France board to see where. :) I also adore the Musee Carnavalet. For someone who adores decor, le Musee Jaquemart-André is a must and yes, go for lunch before.
Paris is Paris just as NYC is not really the US. So I do hope that Cheri will try to get out of Dodge, as amazing as it is. Something less touristic would be to rent a car and drive to Vezelay or to spend a weekend staying at Sharon Santoni's guest cottage, see her amazing blog "My French Country Home". Speaking of blogs, I also appreciate the suggestions that Vicki Archer has on "French Essence".
One last advice: don't overplan. It is the single greatest mistake that folks make when they come to France. Do research like crazy but then...let it go. Trust this travel writer, it is all about the time spent breathing it all in and nothing more.
With all my best from Arles,
Heather
Was there in September - thank you for bringing back ohso wonderful memories. I will be looking back at your blog throughout the day ... basking in the memories! xo
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I celebrate our wedding anniversary every single year in Paris. We have been married 20 years and started this custom 10 years ago, some years we go all out and some years like this last one, we were on a little bit more of a budget. Have stayed in 3 star hotels and 5 star Palace hotels. Have eaten in small quaint simple bistors and 3 Michelin starred restaurants, the bottom line is there is no city in the world as beautiful and magical as Paris, no matter how you do it, I promise you will get cast under it spell.
ReplyDeleteWe love museums and always try to visit as many as possible, always looking up all the exhibits before we go. We love lingering at one of the thousands of cafes outside just people watching and we love going to a French movie theater, though our French is not so great, its fun feeling like a Parisian. Since we have been so often, we no longer do the tourist type things but I do suggest visiting them if its your first time. Wish you a wonderful and safe trip.
At the top on Printemps Maison...there is a cafe with a beautiful view of Paris. I go there for a quick lunch every time I visit.
ReplyDeleteParis in May?? If you're into tennis and grand slams, the French Open is a must! Roland Garros is such a quaint and intimate venue, unlike other grand slam venues where they can be overwhelming and over-populated. The tournament runs May 27th through June 10th. I'm a tennis junkie so I enjoy all the tournaments. I'm just partial to Roland Garros for reasons mentioned.
ReplyDeletePlaces to stay... I've stayed at the George V and enjoyed that very much. I've also stayed at small boutique hotels and apartments and enjoyed that, as well. It really depends on your style, Cheri. Naturally, you'll want to see the sites and attractions (best researched before you go) since it's your first time there. I would recommend also going to less touristy places... Go where the locals go to get to know the people and the culture. It makes it more authentic! Have a beautiful trip and safe travels!
i have never visited! plan it, tina. i'm so there. i could live on the baguettes alone.
ReplyDeletemichele
Very few cities get us as excited as Paris! Unfortunately, Mr.Wonderful has no interest in going, so I go with the girls...which can be quite fun! Can't wit to go again soon!
ReplyDeleteI just got back from my sixth trip to Paris last weekend! I highly recommend visiting the Musee de l'Orangerie near the Concorde Metro stop if you are a fan of Monet - two oval rooms where you are encircled with almost floor-to-ceiling waterlilies and nympheas oil paintings, absolutely breathtaking! Of course, the Musee d'Orsay is also a must-see, but if you can only visit one, skip the Louvre and head to the Musee de l'Orangerie.
ReplyDeleteThe Il de la Cite arr. near Notre Dame is such a magical walk, especially in the evening when all the restaurants are aglow. I stayed in the Hotel Londres Eiffel which is within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, and I would definitely recommend booking a room close to the Eiffel Tower as nothing beats meandering through this charming neighborhood with glimpses of this beautiful landmark through the buildings, and then suddenly turning a corner and seeing it in its entirety looming over you! At night, it sparkles at the hour for about 5 minutes and it's truly not to be missed!
I also took a took or the Opera Garnier at the Opera Metro stop; for less than 10 euros you can go on a self-guided tour of this beautiful landmark, with its grand double staircase and ornate detailing.
Since you're going in the spring, it's the perfect time to visit the Jardin du Luxemberg, which I think is even better than the Jardin du Tulleries because the gardens are more colorful, it has a palace, the enchanting and serene Medici Fountain (which is to the right of the palace, I had a hard time finding it at first!), and plenty of seating including lounge-chairs!
For food, definitely try the french macarons and visit the gorgeous Laduree shop on the Champs Elysees near the George V Metro stop (also near the Louis Vuitton flagship store which is like a museum).
Have a wonderful time!!!
Oh! If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Versailles and its gardens. One can hardly believe people lived in such luxury back then! You can also rent bikes and ride around the palace grounds :) If you really like Monet, I also recommend visiting his home in Giverny where he painted all his famous paintings of his gardens and Japanese bridge. It's not hard to see where he got all his inspiration from when you see where and how he lived :)
ReplyDeleteI adore Paris and one of my favorite things was Montmartre and seeing all of the wonderful artists at work. This post makes me want to go back!!
ReplyDeletebeautiful pics!!!amazing blog!!!i'm following you!!!
ReplyDeleteOh Paris!
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I spent our first wedding anniversay in Paris in 2003 - so many beautiful memories!
We are lovers of music, history, art, food, and wine, and Paris answers the call to all!
I agree with Phoebe, don't miss the Rodin and Picasso museums! In my humble opinion, I would skip Montmartre, which I found to be a bit gritty and not worth the time when time matters - there is so much to see and do . . . . . . of course the Louvre and Mussee D'Orsay will each require considerable time and won't disappoint.
However, my treasured memories are of a very romantic dinner in the Restaurant Jules Vernes in the Eiffel Tower, (If you are planning something special, it is one of the most prestigious restaurants in Paris - and truly a romantic evening - the private elavator gives you access to the tower sans tourists!) Also, I will never forget a truly Cinderella evening at the Opera Garnier to see the magical ballet, Giselle - the stuff that dreams are made of!
Don't hesitate to use the public transit system. In fact I recommend it; you get the feel for real life in Paris. We found so many wonderful restaurants and cafes and walked quite a bit too. We stayed at a small and lovely hotel on St. Germaine de Pres called the Hotel Madison and we loved it - a perfect location for getting around to all of the important destinations and offers some terric shopping as well.
Leading up to your trip be sure to tune your ipod to Edith Piaf as you get to know your Fodors, Zagats, and DK guides. We always consult Trip Advisor too - can't remember if they are international, but worth a search!
I'm dreaming of those baguettes now! Bon voyage!
Paris is such an amazing place! I went in June with my four best friends. We all celebrated a milestone birthday and made memories we'll never forget! Here are some things that I loved that I recorded on my blog! There are three consecutive posts with several tips for travel and tours!
ReplyDeletehttp://thehiddenlist.com/2011/06/planning-perfection/
Thanks for this wonderful post! I've not been to Paris, but plan to do so some day hopefully in the not so distant future.
ReplyDeleteParis is our absolute favorite, it is our goal to have a pied a terre there! The Park Hyatt is a great hotel. Hidden bistro: Cafe de l'intillac. Best cassoulet. Le Comptoir for a long boozy lunch. LaTour d'Argent for a splurge dinner over the Seine. Rodin museum and Luxumbourg Gardens a must. Also love the Catacombs
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! Thank you... I can't be of help here but if anyone needs a trip to Prague ... I can recommend thing there... (:
ReplyDeleteZ
From my home here in Australia I have travelled to Paris many times and truly love the city. Many of the best things to see and do have all been mentioned. For shopping there is nothing like the big department stores especially Bon Marche and if you cook then a visit to E. Dehillerin 18 Rue Coquilliere 75001 is a real joy. The copper cookware is simply the very best and well priced. For wonderful delis, cheese shops, florists and cafes, Rue de Cler in the 7th arrondissement is a must. A special place to dine is Le Train Bleu at Gare de Lyon train station.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Tina on your wonderful blog, I am enjoying watching you set up home. All the very best. Jennifer
Le sigh! What else can I say about all this wonderful advice and recommendations! We've decided to stay at Le Meurice, I've ordered my DK Paris travel book and now know all the museums, gardens, restaurants, bistros, and landmarks we would like to visit. I think I'll look into getting French immersion CD's and brush up on my totally inadequate conversational French. I am so excited but I do have a few questions if you would be kind enough to answer. Is the Metro something we should avoid? Is it easier to get around by cab? Do you use the hotel concierge to arrange your tours? Another question, what do you ladies wear on your feet when you're walking around? I would like something more stylish than my running shoes. Not that I actually run... Note to hubby, a nice pair of Chanel ballet flats could work! Smiley face. Hopefully we can fit many of these fantastic recommendations in the short week that we will be in Paris. Thank you Tina, for this post in my honor. You and your readers are amazing! Please keep all the great comments coming. I am enjoying every word.
ReplyDeleteMerci,
Cheri
I loved this mini guide and it's so lovely of you to be so interactive with your readers. Aah wish I was going to Paris, but at least I have the gorgeous photos in your blog to looks at!
ReplyDeletexo
Sharon
Hello Tina,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are well, how is your knee feeling? Take it easy so so that you do not develop issues in your back or other knee from over compensating.
I love this post! As you and I have discussed a few times we both love Paris. I am sure that Cheri will get some great advice here.
As I have been to Paris many, many times my advice is this:
1. Have a car pick you up at the airpost, so much less hassle than a cab.
2. Do not try to do EVERTYHING you will be back one day (hopefully). If you try to cram in so many things the trip becomes a chore, a beautiful one but a chore none the less.
3.Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to walk.
4. The Metro is the easiest way to get around but if you take the metro everywhere you miss out on seeing a lot.
5. If you are going out of the city, Versailles is fabulous, but go early, the lines are terrible.
6. GET A MUSEUM PASS! You can avoid the long lines, and it is a great deal if you are going to more than 4 museums.
7. Most museums are free the first Sunday of each month, so if you are there then the lines are LONG, again arrive early.
8. Another great day trip is to Monets Gardens, or Fontainbleu or to Senlis.
9. Most importantly, Have fun, eat lots of bread, eclairs, or whatever else you like.
Must do: Sainte Chapelle, Musee Jacquemart-Andree, and its tea room, Musee Cognacq-Jay, Rodin Museum, Picasso Museum, St. Eustache, Notre Dame, Luxeumburg Gardens, Musee D'Orsay, Lorvre, Musee de Cluny.
Visit the 7th and shop on Rue Cler, go to the Bon Marche Grand Epecier to see 50,000 gournet food items, Fauchon, and Heidard. Laudree for macaroons, althought the location on Champs Elysee is being remodeled. Take in the shops on Ave. Montaigne and Rue St. Honore, visit Hermes even if you are not buying to see the spectacular leather goods.
As for chocolate, got the Michael Chizuel's chocolate "universe" for fabulous hot chocolate. On the same little street, which is more like an alley is a fabulous paper and leather store and the oldest cafe/restaurant in Paris, Robspiere and Benjamin Franklin ate there( I did not eat there, just saw it) But I did purchase some beautiful paper from the store mentioned. There are also many other great chocolate stores, I am sure everyone has a favorite.
Visit Pain and Chocolate in the 7th, owned by a delightful couple, quaint cafe, small, excellent tea and pastries. Visit Le Comptoir near the Odeon Metro, lunches are fabulous but get there early because there will be a line. If you go at dinner you need a reservation usually.
I could go on and on as I have been going once or twice a year since I was 16. I recommend you check out, Lost in Cheeseland, French Essence, and My French Country Home blogs, they all have had great suggestions on "must do's" in PAris.
If you have any more questions I am sure that any of the above commentors, myself included would be happy to help.
I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Elizabeth
My husband and I had a wonderful trip to Paris in July 2010.The Louvre, Musee d`Orsay,a tour of the Opera Garnier, Notre Dame, walking the streets
ReplyDeleteday and night,a trip on the Seine at night.The list is endless a day trip to Monets Garden and Versailles, the Metro is a must we purchased our tickets in Australia before we left.The Paris Flea market was too overwhelming it is absolutly huge. I bought some lovely ballet shoes in Rue St Honoure at a shop called Jet Set and every time that I wear the two pairs they are commented on.Wish that I had more room in the case.
Have a wonderful trip I hope to go this year.
Tina your home is just magnificent it has been so much fun seeing the end result. I hope that you have recovered from the move.x Trish
I want to go to Paris SOOO badly and this is only inspiring me more so! What a beautiful city!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. I live in Paris and have a private travel company here so I love talking about my home.
ReplyDeleteMy first piece of advice - wear comfortable clothes - Paris is a wlaker's dream come true. Cheri your idea of ballet flats is perfect.
Second - Get a list together of your absolute must-see stops - then enjoy meandering through the incredibly beautiful streets.
Fav Muséé - Musée Monet-Marmottan. The most amazing colelction of Monet in an intimate mansion in the 16th arrondissement. Never very crowded because most visitors miss this gorgeous stop. Loads of fantastic shopping and cafés when your through too.
Fav Hotel - an apartment is a good idea to get the feel for 'living like a local'. If your in town for only a few days again Le Maurice is a winner for Cheri's choice. Lots of lovely small hotels in the 7th as well, which is a great central location and the rues ooze French charm and overflowing with boutiques and cafés. Also close to Le Bon Marché, for a department store with a boutique feel - Tina's suggestions is a good one.
Well, better sign off now before I start a novel. I could go on about Paris forever. Main thing is enjoy. Take off walking and explore.
Bon voyage,
Mimi
We love the George V hotel, but also love the Paris Westin on Rivoli (the old Intercontinental Hotel)
ReplyDeleteMartini's at the Hemingway Bar at the RITZ
Le Grand Colbert (you will recognize this restaurant from "Somethings Gotta Give")
Walking through the Left Bank
Taking the hop off hop on bus tours all over the city
Sacre Coeur when the sun is setting
Taking the trains to Lourdes and Normandy
Hire a driver to take you to Giverny and Verseilles
There are tons of designer shops around the corner from the Westin and or course the museums are located a couple of blocks away and the Tuileries Gardens are right across the street
I celebrated my 21st birthday there many many yrs ago, and have been so many times since, I have honestly lost count. I have rented apts. and stay in tiny hotels.
ReplyDeleteSpent an entire year planning a girlfriend trip to Paris. We had as much fun planning as going!
Not one to who could secure a seat at a couture fashion show. I love the free fashion show with beautiful models at Garleries LaFayette. Fridays at 3pm. Reservations must be made by email a month in advance. What a treat! Janey
Paris is the most wonderful city for walking/people watching. A really fun time is Fat Tire Bike Tours...You meet at the Eiffel Tour in the early evening and you are riding bikes in the city and then end up on a night Seine River ride that is magical!! If you can be there during a full moon phase it is just breathtaking to be on the river late at night. The group is staffed with English-speaking guides, probably university types, it may be owned by Americans. Check it out on Trip Advisor. We always stay in small hotels, especially Rue Cler area and also love to rent apartments. It is impossible not to fall in love with Paris. Enjoy..
ReplyDeleteOh Paris, my heart will always long to be there...Husband and I sold everything we owned, quit our careers and moved to Paris for what we thought would be many many years...Husband worked for a Michelin star chef and I was an assistant to a historian--most my time was spent at Versailles (heavenly) however, life called us home within 6 months. It was a dream come true if only for a little while. Now I fill my days writing about my experiences or working on a small boutique travel company that will assist clients with VIP Paris experiences via my contacts in the travel industry there. Loire Valley is equally enchanting--especially if you stay at an authentic country chateau!
ReplyDeleteI went to Paris last summer and loved it. We mostly went to the typical tourist spots. What really stood out was The Eiffel Tower (of course), Laduree, The St. Germaine area, and the Ile de la Cite. We weren't too interested in the fancy restaurants, but we ate at some fabulous cafes in the St. Germaine. I wanted to skip some meals in lieu of pastries. :) I really wish we had time for day trips, but we decided to take the train to London instead. Next time I go back I will take several day trips.
ReplyDeleteI would skip Montemarte. It wasn't pretty to say the least. I thought it was going to be a lot different. As a previous person said, it is gritty. I did wear ballet flats when I was there. Only one pair gave me problems, but that was because I didn't properly break them in. That was a painful day at the Louvre! If you're not sure about a certain pair of shoes I would recommend slipping a comfortable pair in your purse.
I feel like authentic is gonna be really hard to come by, french don't take kindly to tourists but they are willing to exploit their ideals of Paris for a quick penny. Maybe make some friends there and let them show you?
ReplyDeleteApartments for Rent in Paris A small but very cozy one bedroom apartment on
ReplyDeleterue de la Tour (16th arrondissement of Paris). The apartment is located on the fifth floor of a building without an elevator
with the entrance codes. Flat’s space is 35 square meters. The maximum number of occupants is 4 persons.