36 Hours in Paris
36 hours in… PARIS
Inspired by the New York Times “36 hours in” series, I created my ideal 36 hours in Paris.
I spent this past summer frolicking around Paris, indulging in the sights, scents, and nature of this magical city… oh and I also took two classes while there. Busy! Fashion, culture, and architecture intersect in a special way. While I didn’t come home with a French boyfriend, I did meet so many of the incredible people who make Paris great– the artists, chefs, and creatives of the city– all while learning the art of “joie de vivre'' and how to enjoy simple things in life.
I’m a California girl but 50% French, and I have grown up visiting family in the south of France every couple of years. Before this summer, I had never spent more than a day or two in Paris, so I loved settling into a routine in the city with local spots as well as some of the typical tourist cliches… because why not!
What to Wear
The summer months in Paris are not for the weak, so dress appropriately. With temperatures ranging in 70s-80s throughout July and August, Parisian summer style consists of lightweight layers, chic basics, and comfortable shoes for walking around. Parisians have a classic “look” and “je ne sais quoi” to the way they dress and look in outfits, no matter how simple these ensembles may seem to the untrained eye. The classic Parisian wears what suits his or her figure best, and allows simple outfits and personal accessories to showcase real natural beauty. For the typical Parisian uniform, I noticed jeans paired with a black or white tee shirt, white blouses, basket bags, stripes, and floral prints. Throw on ballerina flats or a sleek leather sneaker and you're golden.
The Weekend Itinerary: Parisian Summer Edition
SATURDAY
9:00 Un café et un croissant s’il vous plaît
Starting strong with the perfect Parisian summer morning. Coffee, a croissant, and people watching… what could be better?
11:00 Escape the heat with a museum visit
Head to Galerie Dior for an incredible immersive experience with one of the world’s most influential houses and discover the history of the brand and emotions surrounding every piece.
Chez Meunier, 18 Rue Rambuteau
Galerie Dior, 11 Rue François 1er
1:00 Lunch Time
After the Galerie Dior and strolling on Avenue Montaigne, walk toward Dinand par Ferdi for the perfect combination of lunch and people watching. Dinand par Ferdi is Bar Ferdi’s sister restaurant, frequented by shoppers, celebrities, and fashionistas alike. Sit awhile and order the famous burger, mac and cheese, crispy shrimps, grilled corn (trust). If you're feeling fun… drink a guarapita and end the meal with churros. My times visiting Ferdi over the course of my month in Paris were memorable to say the least (and I probably went a few too many times... but how could I resist?!)
Jardin du Palais-Royale
Dinand Par Ferdi, 18 Rue du Boccador
2:30 Samedi au Parc: Tuileries & Cafe YSL
In the afternoons in Paris, especially on weekends, I love exploring parks and relaxing with a book or talking with friends for hours. Take the metro to the Jardin du Palais-Royal or the Jardin Tuileries, find a chair, and bask in the sun.
4:00 Caffeine pick-me-up
Afternoon treats in the summertime are a must. To keep your day fueled, stop at Café Kitsune or the Saint Laurent Café Tuileries for iced lattes. Fashion brands creating cafés seem to be the new trend here. Café Kitsune, a now small global chain of cafés, takes its name from Maison Kitsune, a chic fashion brand combining French and Japanese influences. The Saint Laurent Café sits beside the Saint Laurent Rive Droite location, taking the space of the once concept store Colette that closed after 20 famous years. The sleek YSL cafe serves up all sorts of treats, espressos, teas, and of course a fabulous playlist crafted by Maison Saint Laurent .
7:00 Stroll to Dinner
For dinner, visit Chez Janou, located in the Marais near the Place des Vosges. Bookings can be made via telephone, or by queuing in front of the restaurant at 18:30 before their opening dinner seating at 19:00. This restaurant is everything and more… you walk by and it looks like a Parisian postcard. It is a French Provencal restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere filled with locals and a vibrant fashion scene. The menu written on a chalkboard complements green checkered tables squeezed closely together, each set with a bowl of fresh olives. Favorites from visits to Chez Janou include the raviolis, moules gratinees, l’entrecote, and prosciutto salad with melon. Of course, do not miss out on the chocolate mousse served tableside, you will never want to leave this place.
11:00 Le Soir
For a fun vibe and post-dinner drink and music, head to the speakeasy under Carboni’s restaurant. Located a few blocks from Janou, the downstairs of Carboni’s a.k.a. Bar Sotto opened in 2021 and serves up a variety of snacks and drinks. Cap off your night with low lighting, tiny barstool seats, and music playing from a vinyl jukebox.
Chez Janou, 2 Rue Roger Verlomme
Bar Sotto, beneath Carboni’s, 45 Rue de Poitou
SUNDAY
Food markets in the Marais
9:00 Morning in the Marais
The Marais is known for its artists, vintage shops, cafe culture, and museums.
For your caffeine and pastry fix, head to Partisan Cafe Artisanal. This place is popular among the arty and creative people living nearby, and filled with fabulous people watching and style inspiration.
Partisan Cafe Artisanal, 36 R. de Turbigo
Merci, 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais
11:00 Stroll & shop local
Roam around to find vintage shops, local art galleries, and home goods stores. Don’t miss Merci, the eco-friendly concept store filled with an incredible array of homewear, clothing, accessories, and books. Other Marais essential stops for browsing include Rouje, Cos, Ofr Bookstore, Dover Street Market, and the Sandro outlet boutique.
1:00 For a midday post-shopping lunch, head to Breizh café or Crêperie Suzette in the Marais. Both crêperies serve all the classics plus daily specials; Breizh and Crêperie Suzette are the definition of quintessential Parisian crepêries.
Et voila! A little slice of life in Paris! and if you have more than 36 hours here (I hope you do), continue exploring!
