A day in Paris? Here's how to spend it
Paris is a city that needs no introduction. Its streets hum with history, its landmarks are etched into the global imagination, and its flair for style and culture remains unmatched. Whether you’re here for the architecture, the food, or simply the atmosphere, Paris has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
In just 24 hours, you can experience a slice of its magic – from sipping coffee at iconic cafés to wandering cobbled streets lined with boutiques and discovering its vibrant nightlife. This guide will take you through the essentials, ensuring you make the most of a day in the City of Light.
Table of Contents
- Where to stay
- Where to get breakfast
- Where to grab a coffee
- Where to shop
- Where to grab a drink
- The must-see attraction
- Where to have dinner
- Where to dance
Where to stay
Settle into Hôtel Lutetia, a Saint-Germain-des-Prés landmark where Art Deco grandeur meets modern luxury. This historic retreat offers more than just a room – it immerses you in the essence of Left Bank sophistication. If riverside opulence appeals, indulge at Cheval Blanc Paris, where suites overlook the Seine, and every detail feels curated to perfection. For those after a more understated charm, uncover Hôtel des Grands Boulevards in the bustling 2nd arrondissement. Its tucked-away courtyard and thoughtful interiors make it a quiet gem amid the city's energy.
Where to get breakfast
Few places feel as quintessentially Parisian as Café de Flore. Here, among the wicker chairs and bustling waitstaff, you can savour a golden croissant and velvety café crème while soaking in decades of literary history. If a modern breakfast suits your taste, venture to Holybelly in the bohemian Canal Saint-Martin district. Plates arrive brimming with fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and eggs that feel like an art form. It’s a lively start to the day that balances tradition with a fresh, vibrant edge.
Where to grab a coffee
Paris takes its coffee seriously, and Télescope is a masterclass in the craft. Tucked near Palais Royal, this small café focuses on precision and flavour. Each cup, whether a silky flat white or an earthy filter brew, is a revelation. Another standout is Coutume Café, where attention to detail transforms every pour-over into an event. Nestled in the 7th arrondissement, this spot offers a calm atmosphere that invites you to linger, whether you're diving into a book or watching the world pass by.
Where to shop
Le Marais is a treasure trove for those with an eye for the unique. The district blends high fashion with vintage charm, offering everything from bespoke suits to retro jackets. Start at Merci, where every corner brims with carefully selected fashion, books, and homeware – all supporting a good cause. Then move to The Broken Arm, a boutique that combines cutting-edge design with a curated café. The winding streets of Le Marais beg to be explored, with unexpected finds waiting in every hidden corner.
Where to grab a drink
When the evening calls for a drink, make your way to Montmartre’s Le Consulat. This historic watering hole, once frequented by Picasso and Van Gogh, invites you to sip on a glass of red wine in an atmosphere soaked with artistic history. For something livelier, step into Frenchie Bar à Vins where great wine, bold bites, and a buzzing vibe turn every visit into a moment to remember.
The must-see attraction
The Eiffel Tower remains the crown jewel of Paris. Begin at Trocadéro Gardens, where the tower’s silhouette stands framed by fountains and manicured pathways. From there, cross the Seine to marvel at its intricate ironwork up close. Climbing to the summit rewards you with sweeping views of Paris, where landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame appear as miniature jewels. For a quieter experience, stay on the Champ de Mars lawns and watch the tower glow as dusk settles.
Where to have dinner
At Septime, dining feels like storytelling. Each dish unfolds with seasonal ingredients, inventive flavour pairings, and a touch of the unexpected. The understated setting allows the food to shine, making it a must-visit for culinary adventurers. For a more classic Parisian experience, head to Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, where the menu is simple: tender steak, crispy frites, and a signature sauce that keeps diners coming back for generations. Both options offer a taste of Paris, albeit from different angles.
Where to dance
For those seeking a dance floor with an edge, La Station – Gare des Mines offers a unique take on Parisian nightlife. This former railway station has been reimagined as a cultural hub, hosting DJ sets, live performances, and experimental events that cater to an eclectic crowd. Its raw, industrial setting contrasts sharply with Paris’s polished image, but the energy here is undeniable. Whether it’s techno, punk, or something in between, the music pulses with the city’s creative heartbeat. Rex Club is another local legend that’s well worth a visit if you get the time.
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