This Travel Tip Tuesday, Cherrye and I decided to collaborate on one of our favorite cities, Paris. There are so many things to love about the City of Light, so it is hard to know where to begin, so I felt it best to put together a Best of List. Now, some of you may disagree, but keep in mind, it is my best, not the best.
Best of Paris
Best Museum. I have been to many, not all, but many. So far, my favorite has been the Rodin. The building itself is exquisite, the wrought iron banister leading to the second floor is to-die-for, his works are amazing. Though the mansion is large, the small rooms allow it to remain intimate. His larger works, like The Thinker, are nestled among the gardens out back. You can even grab a nosh in the cafe.
Best Patisserie. Hands down, it is Ladurée. Each location is decorated a little differently, but they all exude that French style. The window displays are perfectly delicious, as well as the signature Ladurée pastel packaging. But the thing that keeps me coming back are the macaroons. Rose, violet, pistachio, lime and cafe are just a few of the inventive flavors.
Best Wine Bar. Though I have a handful of favorites, the Taverne Henri IV, located between the Pont Neuf and the Place Dauphine, will always top my list. The cozy atmosphere, the delicious homemade food that changes daily, and the wonderful selection of inexpensive wines make this a favorite of many locals and tourists alike. The location and the amicable owners are the real reason it holds a special place in my heart.
Best Spot For Sunset. Located at the tip of the I’le de la Cité is a small park, called Square du Vert-Galant. A lovely, serene spot to grab a park bench and relax, or smooch, like the locals do. Walk out a bit further at sunset though and enjoy the stunning array of jewel-toned colors light up the sky as the glow from the setting sun slowly transforms the bridges and buildings from cold grey to warm amber.
Best For a Stroll. Far away from the crowds and the center of the city is an area made famous by the movie Amelie. The Canal Saint-Martin, in the 10th arrondissement, is lined with trees, bridges, and locks along the canal. It makes for a lovely, quiet, picturesque and shady walk. There are several new boutiques and cafes in the area worth a visit, including the Hotel du Nord.
Best Quintessential Paris. Day or night, the I’le Saint Louis, exudes charm. With its tiny cobbled streets, romantic quays, boutiques, bridges and stunning views of both the right and left bank of Paris, it showcases a bit of everything Paris has to offer, all in the tiniest of spaces. And Berthillon, Paris’s best ice cream, is located right in the center of it all!
Best Neighborhood. The Marais is a lively section on the right bank and a perfect spot to spend a whole day. Wander the streets, pop in and out of the funky boutiques, spend some time on the Place des Vosges or one of the many museums located here. Locals flock here on Sundays, as it is one of the only places where shops are open. If you like Greenwich Village in NYC, than you will love the Marais!
Best Off the Beaten Path. Wander away from the touristy Place du Tertre, behind Sacré Coeur, and you will find the backstreets of the Buttes Montmartre. It’s a neighborhood lined with gorgeous examples of Haussmann architecture, large apartment buildings complete with French windows and iron balustrades, tiny streets with little French houses, quaint parks and passageways, a cemetery and a small vineyard on Rue St. Vincent. I love getting lost there.
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Don’t forget,
Cherrye has her favorites for Paris too! Make sure you check it out!
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