Paris has a way of pulling you into its rhythm almost immediately. The walking, the food, the style, the way everyday moments feel elevated without trying. It is a city that rewards slowing down just enough to notice the details.
These are the places, experiences, and habits that stood out. The ones that made the trip feel equal parts fun, beautiful, and inspiring.
Some of our favorite meals came from small, unassuming cafés we wandered into without a plan. Sidewalk tables, classic menus, no pressure to rush.
French onion soup, soufflés, charcuterie, baguettes, cheese, beef bourguignon. Simple, comforting, and done incredibly well. These meals consistently outshined the more overhyped, hard to book spots.
Paris does casual dining beautifully.
Shopping designer in Paris really is different. The stores themselves are stunning, the experience feels intentional, and prices are often better than in the U.S.
Hermès, Chanel, Dior, Goyard, Louboutin. Even browsing feels special.
Tip: Designer purchases are eligible for a VAT tax refund, which must be completed at the airport. Just bring your tax forms and purchases with you before checking your bags.
A Seine River cruise at night is one of those experiences that feels timeless. The city lights, the bridges, and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour is genuinely magical.
Bundle up, stand on the top deck, and take it all in. It is calm, romantic, and a perfect way to see Paris from a different perspective.
One of the biggest surprises was how good the house wine by the glass can be.
There is no need to order a bottle to get something great like you might in the U.S. I had incredible Chablis for around six euros, and Hugh was very happy with the lager on tap.
We were lucky with weather in the 50s, but I quickly realized that what mattered most was my coat and shoes. Your outfit is usually covered all day, so comfort and warmth win.
A good coat, comfortable walking shoes, and a crossbody bag will take you everywhere. Everything else is optional.
We stayed at Hotel Lutetia, and it was absolutely beautiful. The service was phenomenal, the rooms felt thoughtful and calm, and the atmosphere struck the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.
The bar hosts live music on Friday and Saturday nights, the spa was the perfect reset after travel, and Hugh loved the cigar lounge speakeasy. It felt like a true Parisian experience rather than just a place to sleep.
If you are a coffee person, learn this order early: café noisette.
It is a single shot of espresso with a small amount of milk foam. Rich, balanced, and perfect. I added one sugar packet and had one after nearly every meal. It is simple and somehow better every time.
Yes, it has a view of the Eiffel Tower. And yes, it is worth it.
Giraffe is known for its seafood, and the sole meunière was one of the best dishes I have ever had. If you can get a table outside, even better, especially at night.
This is one of those places that feels celebratory without being overdone.
Musée d’Orsay is essential if you love Impressionist art. Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, all in one beautifully curated space.
If you have the time, it is worth paying the small additional fee to visit the nearby Musée de l’Orangerie as well. Seeing Monet’s Water Lilies in that setting is a quiet, memorable experience and well worth it.
The Paris flea markets are non-negotiable.
They are the largest antique markets in the world, and if you love interiors, fashion, or sourcing unique pieces, you could spend days here. Take the metro, bring cash, negotiate politely, and know that shippers are available if you find something larger than your suitcase can handle.
For home and interiors, focus on:
For fashion, the booths are often in the same markets. We found incredible vintage treasures including Hermès scarves, Chanel bags, Christian Lacroix jewelry, Louis Vuitton duffels, fur hats, capes, and coats. It is a fashion lover’s dream and far more interesting than buying something new.
Crazy Horse was a highlight. Chic, tasteful, and very Parisian.
Photography is not allowed during the show, which honestly adds to the experience. You are fully present. It felt polished and glamorous without being over the top, and we preferred it far more than larger, more theatrical cabaret shows.
Mornings started slowly with fresh fruit, pastries, cheese, caviar, and excellent coffee. Simple, indulgent, and exactly how mornings should feel on vacation.
It is one of those routines that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
The metro is clean, efficient, and surprisingly easy to navigate. It is also much faster than driving across the city.
Most trips that would take twenty to thirty minutes by car were closer to ten on the metro. Comfortable shoes and a metro pass will take you everywhere.
Place Vendôme never disappoints. The architecture, marble sidewalks, the Ritz, and the surrounding designer stores make it worth lingering.
Stop for a drink at the Ritz Bar or sit in the courtyard when the weather allows. It is one of those quietly chic Paris moments that feels effortless.
Some of the best moments came from wandering with no agenda. Bookstores, bakeries, boutiques, cooking shops, chocolate stores. Paris makes everyday discoveries feel special.
Let yourself get a little lost. The city rewards it.
Paris does not need to be overplanned. The magic is in the balance. Good food, long walks, beautiful surroundings, and letting the day unfold naturally.
These were the moments that made the trip memorable, and the ones I would happily repeat.
