The best way to spend a weekend in Idyllic Paris

10 years ago I spent 2 weeks in Paris with my family. I’ve picked a few things from our time there to make up a simple but delightful itinerary on how best to spend a weekend in Paris. For me, travelling is about taking it slow. I spend time at some sights but don’t jam-pack my itinerary because well for one, I need extra time for the amount I spend being lost and second, I like to relax outside local cafes testing out the food and drink while people watching. If this sounds like you and you’re new to Paris, then this post suits you perfectly and particularly those who are looking for a relaxing weekend away in the French capital rather than a full-on hectic ‘must-see everything’ type of trip.

Friday evening

Aim to arrive as early as possible so that you have plenty of time to drop off your luggage before heading out in search of exquisite French appetisers. Paris is absolutely the place to be for lovers of fine food and fine wine! My mum has always said that she isn’t a fan of French wine but while there she strangely quite enjoys it. Likewise, I am not a huge fan of most cheeses but while in France I love raclettes and fondues, so dive in and try it all. You may be surprised! Upon completion of your French feast, head to the riverside and take a stroll along the Seine while the sunsets.

Popular French dinners to try!

• Raclette
• Fondue
• Escargot
• Steak frites
• Le Foie Gras
• Ratatouille

Saturday

Daytime

You may want to rearrange the itinerary depending on where you plan to stay. But whatever you do, first you absolutely must relax outside a local cafe with a buttery croissant and a cup of coffee to start your Saturday morning in true Parisian style. Afterwards, I suggest slowly meandering towards l’arc de Triomphe which was ordered by the Great Napoleon to pay tribute to his many French war victories. Climb the 284 steps to fully experience it. For refuelling, pick up a sweet pastry or 2 from quaint boulangeries you discover along the way to enjoy in the nearby Parc Monceau.

Next head towards the Avenue des Ternes for an ornate shopping experience. I am personally not very into shopping but this is a lovely area just to simply explore. Also, there are cafes dotted about so stop by one to try out more delectable French bites. If you are into more high-end shopping then explore the Golden triangle and most definitely check out Champs Elysees. Considered to be one of the world’s most famous commercial streets, it is perfect for the typical shopaholic as well as high-class foodies.

After a spot of retail therapy, walk on in the direction of the Eiffel Tower. Take in your surroundings, there will be endless beautiful touches of old architecture mixed in with the new. Explore random streets along the way in search of the perfect little Parisian cocktail bar. Grab a seat in or out and perhaps order a Kir, a Rose or a sidecar, or all 3! All are highly popular within Paris. I have to say, this is shaping up to be a pretty attractive weekend in Paris!

Evening

Once you have finished guzzling back deliciously refreshing French cocktails, you will be in need of another French feast. But first, wander in the direction of the Eiffel Tower as a weekend in Paris is not complete with out visiting this famous landmark! Tickets start at around £30 and if you wish to take the lift up to the 2nd floor rather than the stairs then you should book tickets online beforehand. Allow around 2 and a half hours for the full experience from bottom to top. I recommend ascending to the highest point as the views are phenomenal. After all, how often are you going to be at the Eiffel Tower?

Follow up your visit to the Eiffel Tower with dinner at either a nearby restaurant or perhaps first get the subway back towards where you are staying and go out for dinner near there instead. Indulge in any sweet treats they have on offer. Try an éclair, the macaroons and a Mille-feuille! Before turning in for the night, why not take an evening stroll and buy some ice cream from a late-night local vendor and perhaps stop off for a nightcap somewhere along the way. If you are into opera then book ahead for an evening at Palais Garnier. Plenty of theatre performances to choose from as well so you will not be at a loss for what to do.

Sunday

For a truly local experience spend your Sunday morning leisurally strolling around the Marché d’Aligre which is a food covered market and there is also a bric-a-brac-filled flea market. Stop by Le Baron Rouge for a traditional post-market glass of wine. Once laden with picnic supplies head to Jardin du Port de l’Arsena. After gorging on the fresh goodies, catch a 2h30 cruise trip towards Canal St Martin in the heart of Paris.

After exploring picturesque St Martin, wander along to Le Marais, the hippest area in Paris. Shops are usually closed on Sundays but as Le Marais is a tourist area, many are open so this is the perfect area to pick up those last-minute souvenirs and gifts. If you have a late flight then try out one of their many splendid restaurants to end your weekend in Paris with style.

Do you plan to go to Paris or have you been before? Let me know in the comments!