My Favorite Places in Paris (Starting in Le Marais, Always)
There’s something about Paris that gets under your skin—in the best way. No matter how many cities I visit, Paris has this magic that keeps pulling me back. And for me, the trip always starts in the same place: Le Marais.
Where I Stay
Le Marais is my Paris. It’s romantic, walkable, and full of charm—with narrow cobblestone streets, tucked-away courtyards, and café terraces just begging for people-watching. It’s equal parts elegant and lived-in, with just the right mix of history, trendiness, and calm. I love how it feels like a village within the city.
On my next trip, I’m dying to try Hotel Le Mazarin. It’s a chic new boutique hotel in the heart of Le Marais, and I’ve heard the interiors are beautifully designed—refined but warm, with a sense of ease and quiet luxury. I have a feeling it will become a new favorite.
For something more playful and personal, Hotel de Joséphine Bonaparte (Hotel de Jobo) is already on my list of all-time greats. It’s quirky, full of personality, and feels like a secret little jewel box. The kind of place where you actually enjoy coming back to your room after a day out. It makes a perfect home base.
Wander + Art
I’m never in a rush when I’m in Paris. I love walking with no set plan, turning down little streets that catch my eye, popping into galleries or shops, and just letting the city unfold. But when I do want a dose of culture, these are the places I keep coming back to:
The Louvre – Let’s be real: it’s not my favorite museum inside (it’s huge, crowded, and easy to get lost), but it’s absolutely worth visiting at least once. The pyramid in the courtyard is iconic, and the whole space around it feels grand and cinematic.
Musée d'Orsay – This is my favorite museum in Paris. It’s housed in a gorgeous former train station, and the collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art is just stunning. It’s big, but not overwhelming, and everything feels beautifully lit and curated.
L'Orangerie – Tucked in the corner of the Tuileries Gardens, this museum is home to Monet’s famous water lily murals. The space was designed just for them, and being in that oval room surrounded by all that soft, dreamy color is honestly a spiritual experience.
Musée Picasso – Right in Le Marais, this museum is set in a beautiful old mansion and showcases a personal side of Picasso’s life and work. It always leaves me feeling creatively recharged.
Centre Pompidou – I love this place. The modern art collection is incredible, and even if you don’t go inside, just riding the escalator to the top for the panoramic view of Paris is worth it. Plus, the vibe around the plaza out front is always lively and fun.
Classic Paris Moments
Some things might be a little touristy—but they’re classics for a reason:
Bateaux-Mouches at Sunset – Gliding down the Seine as the sun sets and the city lights flicker on? It’s dreamy every time. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, there's something timeless about seeing Paris from the water.
Montmartre + Sacré-Cœur – The winding cobblestone streets, the staircases, the artists sketching in the square—it still feels like stepping into a movie. And while Sacré-Cœur is usually crowded, the view from the top is breathtaking.
Taking the Métro – I love the rhythm of the Métro. The art nouveau signs, the tiled walls, the buskers playing music in the tunnels. Sebbie especially loves pressing the buttons to open the doors. It's such a fun part of feeling like a local.
Where I Eat (Again and Again)
Food is half the reason I come to Paris (no shame in that!), and these are the spots I always return to—or dream about when I’m away:
Pamela Popo – A cozy-chic gem in Le Marais. The interior feels like a stylish friend's apartment, and the food never disappoints. Perfect for a long dinner after a full day of wandering.
Chez Janou – Tucked on a quiet square, this Provençal bistro has the best energy, a playful crowd, and the kind of menu that makes you want to linger. Don’t miss the chocolate mousse.
Dôme du Marais – Elegant and atmospheric, with a glass dome ceiling that makes everything feel a little magical. Great for a romantic lunch or elevated dinner.
Loulou – Set in the gardens of the Louvre, this spot is as beautiful as it is delicious. Sunny, stylish, and very Parisian.
Café de Flore + Les Deux Magots – I know, I know. They’re iconic, a little overpriced, and a bit of a scene. But sipping a café crème at one of these spots in the 6th arrondissement is like saying hello to history. I’ll never skip it.
Paris With Kids (Still Dreamy!)
If you’re traveling with little ones, Paris is so much more kid-friendly than people think. There are playgrounds tucked into almost every neighborhood, and so many spots feel magical through a child’s eyes. Some of our favorites:
Elie Wiesel Playground (Le Marais) – A clean, modern, safe play space nestled in one of my favorite parts of the city. It’s a great reset during a day of walking.
Jardin du Luxembourg – Pony rides, old-school sailboats to push across the fountains, a puppet theater, and one of the best playgrounds in Paris.
Tuileries Garden – A gorgeous space to run around, and the carousel here is a sweet, classic touch.
Cité des Enfants – A hands-on science museum designed just for kids. Interactive, educational, and full of discovery.
Natural History Museum (Jardin des Plantes) – Dinosaurs! Skeletons! Crystals! An old-world museum full of wonder.
Puppet Shows + Marionette Theaters – Many of Paris’s parks have old-fashioned puppet theaters—a fun, French tradition that kids absolutely love.
Dreamy Day Trips
If you’ve already been to Versailles (or want something less crowded), these day trips are totally worth it:
Giverny – If you can time it right for spring or early summer, Monet’s garden is in full bloom and it feels like stepping into a painting.
Vaux-le-Vicomte – On summer nights, the château is lit up with 2,000 candles. You can picnic on the grounds or book dinner nearby. It’s romantic, otherworldly, and still somewhat under the radar.
Fontainebleau – Regal without the crowds, this palace is surrounded by beautiful forest. Bring snacks and make a day of it.
Auvers-sur-Oise – A sweet, quiet village where Van Gogh spent his final months. You can see his room, the church he painted, and walk the same paths he did.
A Few Favorite Stops Between It All
Merci (Concept Store) – Beautiful design, curated fashion and home goods, and that iconic little red Fiat in the courtyard. A must-visit for inspiration.
The Bookstore at Merci – Grab a coffee, browse the shelves, and sink into a cozy corner. It’s part shop, part sanctuary.
Place des Vosges Picnic – Pack a baguette, cheese, and something sweet from Maison Plisson or Carette and spend an afternoon lounging in this perfect square.
Final Thoughts
Paris is always a good idea, but it’s even better when you find your version of it. For me, it’s slow mornings in Le Marais, art that stirs something, long dinners, and kiddo giggles on carousels. It’s a mix of cozy and chic, big moments and little ones. It’s playful and poetic and completely addictive.
And it’s always worth going back.