I will issue a disclaimer before I give you my list. It’s just that – my list. It’s purely personal based on the things I love to do and see. And it’s definitely not all inclusive. But I think it will give you a flavor of Paris that is unique. As Bridget said in class one day, “Paris isn’t a jungle. It’s a museum.” I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Best Macarons
I’ve tried many, believe me. And it’s been hard work, but nothing is too great a sacrifice if it’s done in the name of research. Laudree is rumored to have invented them, but I think the best ones are at Pierre Herme. The mix of exotic flavors that you never thought possible will blow your mind. They also have the old standbys like chocolate, coffee and strawberry. But even these are true works of art.
185 Rue Vaugirard, 15th arrondissement
72 Rue Bonaparte, 6th arrondissement

Best Food Store
If you’re looking for the most amazing food store on the planet, step through the doors of Fauchon. You’ll find an amazing selection of wines, jams, spices, teas, sweets, etc. The selection is endless and they make great gifts for the folks back home. Walking in to their prepared foods section is like a slice of heaven. Everything is beautifully prepared and makes your mouth water.
24 – 26 Place de la Madeleine, 8th arrondissement

Best Picnic Spot
There are so many places in Paris to have an impromptu picnic when weather permits. My favorite is the Champs de Mars – the gardens in from of the Eiffel Tower. Grab everything you need in Rue Cler just a short walk away and spread your blanket in the shadow of one of the most famous monuments in the world. At night the tower lights up in all it’s splendor and makes for a very romantic setting. After your meal, you may want to wait in line for a quick trip to the top of the tour. The views of the city at sunset are breathtaking.
Ecole Militaire metro stop on line 8

Best Shopping
Looking for the latest trends in clothing? Spend some time wandering the streets of Place de la Madeleine. There you will find Gucci, Kenzo, Hermes, and every other famous designer in the world. It’s fun to grab a quick snack at Fauchon and do a little window shopping.
Madeleine metro stop on line 12

Best Splurge
If you’re ready to eat some drop dead gorgeous food, make a reservation at Pierre Gagnaire one month before you arrive. Called the Picasso of the plate, Chef Gagnaire blends creativity with some of the most amazing food I’ve ever experienced. The price tag is high, but it’s worth every penny.
Hotel Balzac, 1st arrondissement
01-58-36-12-50

Best Ice Cream
Even if it’s the dead of winter, you must make a journey to Berthillon. This famous ice cream storefront sits on Ils Saint Louis and offers a tempting array of flavors. For a limited time in the summer, they make a fraise de bois (wild strawberry) flavor that will make you melt. There are several shops and cafes that boast the Berthillon name, but I always buy from the real store. Strolling down the quaint shops with ice cream cone in hand is a pleasant way to spend your time.
31, Rue St. Louis-en-l’Ile, 5th arrondissement

Best Sunset/View
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city is Sacre-Coeur, the Sacred Heart church. At 420 feet, this is Paris’ highest point and best place to gaze at the sprawling city below. Bring a couple bottles of wine and maybe a few snacks. Sit on the steps with your fellow Parisians, take in the view and sip some wine.
Anvers metro stop on line 2

Best Café
There are thousands of cafes around Paris where you can while away your time writing postcards, people watching and drinking café au laits. My favorite is in the Rue Cler neighborhood and is called Café du Marche. It’s a perfect spot for watching Parisians as they go about their daily lives on the vivid Rue Cler. During the summer, the café has quaint outdoor seating so you can work on your tan or cool yourself in the shade. In winter, the café feels warm, comfortable and inviting. As an extra bonus, the food is great and inexpensive. Most of the wait staff also speak English.
38 Rue Cler, 7th arrondissement

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