Oh, la la! There truly is no place like Paris. Stroll down leafy boulevards, people-watch by the Seine or sip on un café in Montmartre in the city that has served as muse to some of the greatest artists in modern history.
Apart from its dreamy architecture and quaint streets that were featured prominently in “Emily in Paris,” it’s the rich history and joie de vivre exuding from its 20 arrondissements that truly sets Paris apart. The City of Love is for all the senses, making it a destination to return to again and again.
We guide you on how to make the most of your Paris city break and cover where you should eat, play, and stay during your time in the French capital.
Eat
Paris is a moveable feast. The capital is home to some of the most prestigious restaurants in the world—second only to Tokyo when it comes to Michelin-starred eateries—including the iconic Guy Savoy. Every street corner seems to host mouthwatering boulangeries, and don’t even get us started on those French cheeses and wines! We’ve skipped the usual flavors to give you something a bit out of the ordinary here.
Check out Café de L’Industrie, a traditional brasserie that serves classic French cuisine amid checkered floors and a colorful interior. Start with their cheese platter and follow with the duck leg confit served with honey sauce and potatoes sautéed in duck fat.
A slice of Tokyo in Paris, Kodawari Ramen offers seafood in a unique setting. Credit: Emma Jane Brown 
Chambelland is known for its gluten-free tarts among other delicacies. Credit: Chambelland
For a taste of Japan in France, head to award-winning Kodawari Yokocho, which resembles a traditional Tokyo fish market. Paris is famous for its café culture and patisseries, so explore the Clignancourt area for everything from pastries to charcuterie to fine dining.
What would Paris be without a place to get the perfect pastry and café?Head to Chambelland in the 11th arrondissement. Savor a flaky raspberry tartlet or a bite-sized chouquette as you watch the stylish people stroll by. The bakery’s secret: Everything is gluten-free!
Let’s all just be grateful for the fact that we’ll always have Paris. Credit: Delfi de la Rua/Unsplash
Play
Walk along the Promenade Plantée—an elevated railway track that became a linear park in 1969—which leads from Opéra Bastille to Boulevard Périphérique. For more greenery, chill with the Parisians in whimsical Parc des Buttes Chaumont. While there, stop by the bustling Rosa Bonheur, a popular boite housed in a former guinguette in the middle of the park.
We know: you’ve already been to The Louvre and the Musée D’Orsay. If you only visit one museum this time around make it the kooky and stylish Palais de Tokyo, the largest center for contemporary art in Europe. Admire works from up-and-coming artists and cutting-edge exhibitions.
Looking for a nightcap? Pop into Café A by Canal Saint Martin (after exploring the canals made famous in Amélie) for live jazz in a former monastery. Don’t miss Vignes du Clos Montmartre, an inner-city vineyard. If you’re lucky you can time it with their annual harvesting party!
Your visit to Palais de Tokyo is sure to make a lasting impression. Credit: Shutterstock 
High on life. See the city in an elevated way from Promenade Plantée. Credit: Shutterstock
Stay
Little Palace Hotel
This charming, family-run, four-star hotel is located in the heart of Paris next to the leafy and quiet Square des Arts et Métiers. The Marais hotel has been around since 1911 and is housed in a Haussmann building that was recently renovated and modernized. The hotel boasts classically Parisian wrought iron balconies and Art Deco details throughout. Enjoy a continental breakfast served with fresh croissants, naturalement.
Parisian dream: Treat yourself to a well-earned stay in the heart of Marais. Credit: Little Palace Hotel 
Rooms and suites feature all the modern amenities. Credit: Little Palace Hotel
Hotel des Grands Boulevards
Built on a garden, the 50-room Hotel des Grands Boulevards is housed in an 18th-century building. The romantic hotel’s four-poster beds feature dreamy pastel canopies tied with silk ribbons. The restaurant serves French-Italian country cooking from chef Giovanni Passerini.
The Hotel des Grands Boulevards is a fine example of superior interior design. Credit: Karel Baras 
They say that Paris is for lovers, and who wouldn’t want to bring a loved one here? Credit: Karel Baras