Bonjour! In the interest of giving you all the latest advice…this is a completely updated post with some new things that we just experienced for Two Perfect Days In Paris!
Since we lived in Paris twenty years ago and have gone back every year since (we love it!), there is not a lot of pressure to run around to see and do everything. Recently, we had some time there in between my husband’s business trip. Here are my two perfect days in Paris that involve walking and enjoying the sites, checking out my favorite home stores and eating French food.
Accommodations in the Center of Town
This was our first time staying at the boutique hotel Le Clef Louvre in the First Arrondissement. We had a junior suite that came with a little modern kitchen (which we really didn’t use). It was charming.
You can see here that it’s not far from the Marais…always a fun place to explore.
Sightseeing
Finding Your Way With The MAP App On Your Iphone
It can eat up your data…but it’s so easy! Just put in your destination and it will give you walking directions and even which buses and or metro trains (and directions) to take. We always start with a packet (carnet) of ten bus/metro tickets.
Palais Royal and Garden
Get your steps in (always wear comfortable walking shoes–the French have really embrassed Le Sneaker) by walking through the Palais Royal and Garden on the Right Bank.
Place des Vosges
This is another beautiful courtyard spot with a garden and covered walkways.
Check out this darling spot off the Place des Vosges, Le Pavillon de La Reine. We had a drink in the cozy bar and talked about staying here on our next trip.
If you have the time (or it’s raining, like it was when we were here), it’s always fun to explore…
Le Louvre
You can’t really see everything at once so we always make priorities and stay for two or three hours. Book your tickets online, like we did to avoid the lines.
Don’t forget to look up!
Home Décor Shopping on The Right Bank
Merci
Merci is a home concept store where the exhibits are always changing. I can always pick up a little gift or two here.
Fleux’
Is another fun store…actually “stores” as they have a few shops next to each other.
A. Simon
This is a kitchen supply place where we have purchased several things like porcelain bowls and cutlery that we use every day at home. I bought some more of our flatware…some spoons and forks.
Home Décor Shopping on The Left Bank
Flamant Paris
I used to shop here when we lived here and always came away with great ideas.
Blanc d’Ivoire
Fun French vibe..used to be mostly whites and ivory shades and now they have some color.
Les Toiles Du Soleil
This was new to me at 101 Rue du Bac 101, 75007 (walk all around Rue du Bac, by the way, you will love it). They have colorful products made from Sunbrella-type fabric.
La Grande Epicerie de Paris
My husband always wants to check out the gorgeous food products on display here next to Le Bon Marché.
New Shopping on the Right Bank is:
Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées
It’s like a condensed version of the main department store. Expensive but fun to explore.
Dining
Fine French Dining Splurge at Le Grand Véfour
My husband, Howard loves to cook and Le Grand Véfour has always been a place he has wanted to go. It’s pricy. But it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can read about the history here.
Steak-Frites at Le Relais de L’Entrecote
There are a few of these reliable, well-priced restaurants in Paris. We went to the one on the left bank this day since it was close by. No reservations. There was no line to get in when they opened for lunch.
Dining on the Seine at Quai Ouest
It’s a little out of town in St. Cloud, but we have fond memories of eating here on the river when we lived in Paris (like after Tommy’s First Communion or when friends came to visit). It’s still good and has been redecorated! And Uber can take you there.
Cozy French Fare at Le Comptoir de Petits Champs
If you are near the Louvre this is a charming spot with good food. We just found it using The Fork app (which you can make most of your dining reservations through).
Middle Eastern Food at Chez Marianne
This is a fun place to stop for lunch if you are in the Marais.
If you are planning a trip to Paris, check out my
France Pinterest boards and
Fun Things to Do In PARIS Right Now
PARIS. New Things I Tried That You Might Like.
PARIS: Stylish, Practical Tips For Your Trip Including Where to Eat and Stay
And those were our Two Perfect Days In Paris. Au revoir!
debra @ 5th and state says
Merci Madame!
was there in October, and never tire of the city of dreams! thanks girlfriend for the advice, now I am off to read all your French tips
xo
debra
Judie Olivero says
Two Perfect Days in Paris was PERFECT! On our first visit, almost thirty years ago, we stayed in a charming hotel in the Place des Voges. I still remember questioning at the time why I had ended up living in a small, agricultural community in California when places like this exited. I’m still questioning that…definitely consider myself a “mis-placed/displaced woman!” Because of you, I’ve been thinking about Paris all morning…delicious, delightful memories. Thank you.
Mary Ann Pickett says
You are SO funny! We are eating the Trader Joe’s frozen croissants (that you let rise overnight) and are pretending we are still there.
home before dark says
What a delightful two-day excursion. Love that you have a yearly return to the Paris of your heart. Our most expensive dining to date including several French Michelin starred restaurants was at Quince in San Francisco! In fact my husband uses the Quince evening (which was delightful) as the benchmark of expense. “Well,” he will say after getting the bill, “At least is was less than Quince!” People who aren’t foodies don’t appreciate the experience but will easy pony up to pay $$$$ for athletic tickets and events. At least the foodie journey gives you a three-fer: dinner, an education and a memory!
Angie says
Thank you thank you, I’m going to Paris soon. I have never been and don’t speak the language, so I’m very nervous. Your tips are great and I will definitely read your other suggestions. Can’t wait to try some of the restaurants you suggested and shop in those beautiful stores!
Mary Ann Pickett says
Lots of people speak English but make sure you say “Bonjour” before you speak. Also, its good to have a reservation for dinner if they take them.
Karen Bunch says
Mary Ann,
What a wonderful way to while away for 2 days. Paris!
It looks lovely.
xo,
Karen
Mary Ann Pickett says
Thanks, Karen…it WAS!
Mary says
I bet if you offered a guided tour group you would sell out! Dreaming of Paris ….merci beaucoup!
Mary Ann Pickett says
It would be fun to go with a small group, Mary!
Celia Becker says
In my opinion any time is a good time to go to Paris, and like you, I never tire of it. Home decor shops here we come!! Love all your suggestions. My family and I love the Steak & Frites at Le Relais de L’Entrecote too! I have tried hard to duplicate it at home we love it so much.
Mary Ann Pickett says
Apparently, the steak sauce has a million ingredients…our son was researching it, too.
Sandra Sallin - Apart From My Art says
Who knew? I love your Paris tips. I now know who to turn to on my next trip. Had no idea. You have led a secret life. I must now follow you on Pinterest if I haven’t already. Must check out your Boards. I must say your photos of table tops look very California to me. Amazingly so. Regarding your turkey burgers. I make them very similarly. But now have to go back and check again. Love your recipes also.
Taste of France says
Flamant is one of my favorites. And Merci changed everything.
Mary Ann Pickett says
I know! I sort of miss Colette’s even though I never really bought anything there!
Libby says
Now that daughter lives in London, we are hoping to take the train to Paris from time to time. Anything to avoid CDG! i know some of these stores, but will keep this on hand for sure. Glad you had good weather too; looks beautiful with those blue skies!
Gail Storti says
Be still my beating heart! Where do I start? The first pic, you look so gorgeous and that necklace…I want! I remember the beautiful flower shops that spill out onto the sidewalk and wanting to take an armful home! Wish we had them here. And then all those great home stores, love the fun hats over the dining table! It must be extra special for you because you lived there and go back every year and can just do whatever you want without feeling like you have to see everything. How fun to have Alexandra and Thomas join you, truly a very special mini stay in Paris. Good thing you’re not there right now, heard they’re having a major heatwave!
Mary Ann Pickett says
Merci beaucoup, Gail. Tommy has been to the top of the Eiffel Tower something like 25 times! He went with all our visitors.
cindy hattersley says
You really need to lead us all on a tour! I will be your first victim! Your two days certainly looked perfect. I am hoping to get there next Spring!
Mary Ann Pickett says
Sure!!!
Rose Ann says
Thank you so much for the great shopping tips for Paris. I love this city and I love your blog.
Mary Ann Pickett says
Thanks so much, Rose Ann!
debra @ 5th and state says
a big MERCI Madame!!
I am taking a tour group to Paris & Provence late September and am searching for recommendations, then voila, here you are!
off to explore your recommendations, knowing you, they are tres magnifique!
oh to have lived in Paris……my next life
xo
Debra
LA CONTESSA says
LOOKS SPECTACULAR and sounds even BETTER!
Great photographs and Tips about places to shop and EAT!
If I am so lucky to go again I will contact YOU!
Thanks for sharing your trip………OH and BY the way I made the TURKEY PATTIES last night from your GREEK POST and they were DELICIOUS!I did not make the sauce as I’m dairy free so I cut up some cucumbers and put them in rice vinegar!The feta in the Burger was a NO NO for me BUT I had to try!EVEN THE ITALIAN LIKED THEM!
YOU are becoming my GO TO GAL for recipes so come up with another soon PLEASE!
(Yes, I am now Gluten free,Diary free and YEAST FREE which is a pain but hopefully NOT for EVER!)
XX
Mary Ann Pickett says
So your patty didn’t have feta? I think that’s what makes them moist? You poor thing with the dietary restrictions…but it’s worth it to feel better.
La Contessa says
No it did I used the FETA‼️
Mary Ann Pickett says
oh good.