The Definitive Guide for Experiencing Paris Like a True French Girl
All that's left to plan are your outfits.
Still daydreaming about visiting Paris after Paris Fashion Week? Perhaps you looked up how much it might cost to travel to Paris and now every advertisement is pushing you closer and closer to hitting confirm. Or maybe your Pinterest feed won't stop recommending Parisian posts to you. If this sounds like you, L'OFFICIEL compiled a list of all the essential visits for your trip to Paris — from hotels to cultural excursions to restaurants.
Les Marguerites de Gaumont
The performance hall and cultural phenomenon La Gaîté Lyrique, is hosting an exhibition from September 15 to December 22. Before the holidays go into full swing, you can find your fix of music met with cinema. The exhibition takes inspiration from 15 different films to create a new musical understanding of them. Their website explains that "each syllable is translated into a musical note...word becomes music," proving this exhibition to be innovative and an fascinating activity for your trip.
Parfum D'Orient
From September 26 to March 17, enter a world of scent history at Institut du Monde Arabe. This exhibition explores the rich history of perfume in East Asia and highlights the importance of scent in Arab culture. Manuscripts, textiles, art, videos, as well as guided tours and workshops are available to guests.
Ron Mueck's Mass
While Ron Mueck is not from France himself, the Australian sculptor's work is currently on display at the Fondation Cartier until November 5. The exhibition will feature his 2017 installation titled Mass, which has never been displayed outside of Australia, in addition to newer pieces.
Nicolas de Stael
Step into the vibrant sphere of Nicolas de Staël at the Musée d’Art Moderne from September 15 to January 21. His status as a post-war French artist makes this collection of over 200 paintings, notebooks, sketches, and prints a must-see in Paris. Move through his work chronologically and watch Staël revolutionize colour and art as a whole.
Alaïa and Grès: Au Delà de la Mode
Calling all fashion lovers for this fashion-forward exhibition at Fondation Azzedine Alaïa. Featuring designers Madame Grès and Azzedine Alaïa, examine how these two have translated their sculpting skills into fashion design. Through colour, making practice, and cutting, Grès and Alaïa made similar pieces with similar styles. Although the two never worked together, this exhibition explores how both of their collections of work interact with each other in the modern day.
Marche Aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves
While this flea market could never compare to the size of the Saint Ouen flea market, La Porte De Vanves has a less overwhelming atmosphere for fashion lovers to explore rare and vintage finds.
Les Jardins du Faubourg
Need a moment to relax on your vacation? That starts with your hotel selection. At Les Jardins du Faubourg, find a warm Turkish steam bath (called a hammam), a sauna, professional masseuses, and a lavish swimming pool. All these amenities are available right down the hall from their hotel rooms.
Galenic Pop-Up
Galenic celebrates its 45th anniversary this year and to mark the event, they are hosting a pop-up store from October 3 to 15 at 40 Bd Haussman, 75009 Paris. Elevate your skincare routine at this pop-up event.
Reformation
If you're looking to get your body moving after lounging around and enjoying some classic Parisian delicacies, schedule some time for a workout class at Reformation. With all sorts of pilates-inspired classes, Reformation will get you moving before your next adventure in Paris.
Seb'On
Seb'on is sure to surprise you every night with their random menu. This tiny spot rotates their menu based on what they have in the kitchen, making every night just a bit different than the last. The food here is fresh, in season, and sophisticated with an added charm.
Oma Cuisine
On the hunt for authentic Korean food in Paris? Oma Cuisine serves traditional kimchi alongside other dishes like semi-cooked mackerel tartare in vinegar and fish stock with sweet squash. The chef took inspiration from her childhood meals when cultivating the menu and even the name of the restaurant. Oma, meaning mom in Korean, will give you a taste of Korea while in Paris.
Prince de Galles Installation
Prince de Galles is hosting Laila Gohar's 10-foot-tall cake installation in the hotel's courtyard. Alongside the installation, the hotel pastry staff is serving smaller coconut with raspberry compote and pistachio buttercream cakes featuring the same quaint style. This installation will last until October 10.
Hotel Dames des Arts
With a stunning view of the city, Hotel Dames Des Arts sets the perfect background for a night out. Enjoy a range of seasonal cocktails and small, sharable plates at this rooftop bar. The rooftop closes on October 7, but their luxury hotel rooms are available to retreat to after your long days of exploring any season.
Partisan Coffee
Partisan Coffee, located in the Arts et Métiers district, might be a perfect stop for a morning cup of coffee. The café serves local roasts and has space for guests to enjoy their morning brews in their lounge.
Yacatan
The stunning interior might be the first thing you notice about this restaurant serving top-notch Mexican cuisine. But once night falls, the restaurant turns into an electro/house club filled with dancing, drinks, and unique memories. Beware of spice, because the chefs at Yacatan don't hold back.
Jaïs
If you want to immerse yourself in French culture and food, this bistronomy might be a must-try. Right at the edge of the Seine, Jaïs serves dishes like amberjack ceviche, sole meunière, and matured Simmental beef rib. This classic French spot will remind you of the Paris you always dreamed of.
Eglise de la Madeleine
This church features gorgeous architecture inside and out. But inside, sits a restaurant, Le Foyer de la Madeleine. To order off the menu, you must purchase an annual membership for 10 euros, which is used to help people in need. Volunteers serve classic French food with the backdrop of paintings, columns, and fluffy clouds above guest's heads.