The City That Steals Your Heart

October 18, 2025

October 18, 2025

By: Esther Spierenburg

By: Esther Spierenburg

Where should you stay and eat in a city like Paris? With so much incredible gastronomy, stunning hotels, and charming streets, it’s not always easy to choose. As Paris is one of my absolute favourite cities, I’ve put together a selection of some of my favourite restaurants, cafés, and neighbourhoods. The perfect spots to explore over a three-day visit.

Where to Stay? Friday to Sunday

For a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Paris, my top pick is Le Narcisse Blanc in the 7th arrondissement, just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower. This boutique 5-star hotel combines Belle Époque elegance with modern comfort, offering beautifully designed rooms, marble bathrooms, and a serene spa complete with an indoor pool and sauna - the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. I also have to mention their intimate Restaurant Cléo, where I enjoyed what might be the best ravioli I’ve ever had, paired with impeccable service. The location is ideal too - quiet and sophisticated, just minutes from Paris’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a beautiful hotel and a great choice for a weekend stay in Paris.


Where to Eat?

For Breakfast

Hôtel Plaza Athénée
Stepping into one of the most beautiful hotels in Paris is always a pleasure. I love visiting extraordinary properties, and Hôtel Plaza Athénée is definitely one of them. Having breakfast here is a dreamy way to start the day. Surrounded by the stunning décor, it’s an exquisite experience with a delicious breakfast. From the most beautiful pancakes to perfectly baked eggs and fresh fruit, everything is wonderful.

Ralph’s
One of my favourite little spots in Paris, Ralph’s Coffee is tucked inside the Ralph Lauren flagship on Boulevard Saint-Germain. It’s tiny, charming, and the interior is just gorgeous; think rich wood paneling, chic Ralph Lauren details, and a cozy, stylish vibe. The coffee is always delicious, making it a perfect morning stop. And if you’re lucky enough to find a table (there are only a few) you can even enjoy breakfast inside. I love it not just for the coffee, but also for its location in the heart of Saint-Germain, where you can soak up all the Parisian charm while enjoying a quiet moment.

For Lunch

Le Petit Lutetia
If you’re looking for a cozy, authentic Parisian bistro, Le Petit Lutetia in the 7th arrondissement is a must. The Art Nouveau décor is so charming, and the lively, bustling atmosphere makes it feel very “Parisian.” The food is amazing, classic French dishes prepared with care and great flavour, and the service is warm and attentive. It’s a popular spot among locals and visitors, so be sure to book ahead to secure a table.
Recommended dish: rigatoni with creamy morel mushrooms and Galice beef Cecina

Loulou
An all-time favourite that I could visit repeatedly is Loulou, and honestly, I do every time I’m in Paris. Set in the gardens of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, this chic spot perfectly captures Parisian elegance with a touch of Italian charm. The Mediterranean-inspired dishes are delicious, and the interiors are as stunning as the people. During the summer, the terrace is one of the most stunning in the city, and if you’re lucky enough to get a table upstairs, you’ll even catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.
Recommended dish: Tomato risotto

La Petite Chaise
Stepping into La Petite Chaise felt like stepping back in time. Established in 1680, it’s one of the oldest restaurants in Paris, and you can feel the history in every corner. The wood-paneled walls, red velvet banquettes, and crystal chandeliers create such a warm, intimate atmosphere. The menu features classic French dishes; simple and well-prepared. It’s a restaurant that combines good food with authentic charm, making it worth a visit for anyone who appreciates true Parisian dining and cozy vibes.
Recommended dish; Chicken supreme, chef’s style

For Dinner

Maxim’s
For a romantic, 80’s-inspired evening, Maxim’s is truly unforgettable. Steeped in the grandeur of the Belle Époque era, it quickly became a favourite among Parisian high society, and it still exudes timeless elegance and sophistication today. I’m absolutely in love with everything about this restaurant: the interior, the live music, and the people. The menu features classic French cuisine, with beautifully executed dishes that highlight quality and flavour. With its enchanting atmosphere and live music, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a special celebration.
Recommended dish; The signature chicken for two 

Langosteria
If seafood is your thing and fancy dining is your thing, Langosteria is an absolute must, located on the seventh floor of the gorgeous Cheval Blanc Paris Hotel. The panoramic views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower are just as impressive as the food. Finish your night with a drink at the stylish bar.
Recommended dish; lobster spaghetti and the tuna tartare

Neighbourhoods

Le Marais
One of my favourite corners of Paris, Le Marais in the 4th arrondissement, just across the river from Notre-Dame. Its beautiful streets, hidden courtyards, and tree-lined avenues make strolling around here an absolute pleasure. It’s also a shopping haven, filled with chic boutiques, vintage finds, and concept stores around every corner. Don’t miss the historic Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market dating back to the 17th century, where you can grab everything from fresh produce to delicious street food.

St-Germain-des-Prés
When I’m in Paris, I can never skip St-Germain-des-Prés. It truly captures quintessential Parisian charm. Nestled on the Left Bank, I love wandering its gorgeous streets, popping into beautiful boutiques, and discovering hidden corners. The neighbourhood is also full of amazing restaurants and historic cafés, from Café de Flore to Les Deux Magots, where writers and artists have gathered for decades. With its mix of classic architecture, stylish shops, and vibrant café culture, St-Germain is the kind of place I could explore for hours and keep finding new favourites.

Montmartre
Montmartre has such a unique energy. The streets are full of life, with charming cafés, inviting restaurants, and little boutiques that make strolling around a joy. I love the mix of historic streets, street art, and the views from Sacré-Cœur that make this neighbourhood feel both historic and alive.

Le Premier (1st arrondisement)
One of my absolute favourite areas in Paris, the 1st arrondissement, where luxury meets history. Place Vendôme is my all-time favourite place; I love the elegance of the square, the high-end shops, and of course the iconic Ritz. Walking along Rue Saint-Honoré, I’m always inspired by the chic boutiques, concept stores, and timeless style of the area. From elegant streets to hidden courtyards, this neighbourhood is a mix of glamour, culture, and history that I never tire of exploring. It’s classic Paris at its most refined.

The ultimate itinerary for a stylish weekend in Paris.

Le Narcisse Blanc

19 Bd de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007 Paris, France