Paris weekend

Home to an unparalleled collection of art and antiquities, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Explore vast wings dedicated to Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and European paintings. Allocate ample time to navigate its immense scale and iconic masterpieces.

• Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
• Consider a guided tour to focus on key exhibits.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking.

A chic brasserie located near the Louvre, offering a refined dining experience. Enjoy classic French cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch after a morning of art immersion.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend lunches.
• Try their signature cocktails or a glass of French wine.

Visit the historic heart of Paris, the Île de la Cité. Admire the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral, which fully reopened to visitors in December 2024 after extensive restoration, and step inside to witness its grandeur. Explore the charming squares and medieval architecture surrounding the cathedral.

• Check Notre Dame's current visiting hours and any specific entry requirements online.
• Wander through the nearby Sainte-Chapelle for stunning stained glass (separate ticket required).

Walk across Paris's oldest standing bridge, Pont Neuf, offering picturesque views of the Seine River and the Île de la Cité. It's a romantic spot for an evening stroll, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Experience a quintessential Parisian dining institution known for its bustling atmosphere and traditional, affordable French fare. This historic brasserie offers a taste of old Paris with its Belle Époque decor and no-frills service.

• Be prepared for a lively, sometimes noisy, dining experience.
• Service is efficient; you might need to signal for attention.
• The menu is primarily in French, but staff can often assist.

Explore the charming, hilly streets of Montmartre, once a hub for artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Wander through Place du Tertre, where artists still paint and sell their work, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere.

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the cobblestone streets and hills.
• Be mindful of street vendors and performers.

Visit the stunning white basilica perched atop the butte Montmartre, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. Admire its Romano-Byzantine architecture and peaceful interior. The steps leading up to it are a popular spot for people-watching.

Enjoy a classic Parisian cafe experience at Le Consulat, a landmark in Montmartre frequented by artists for decades. It's a perfect spot for a coffee, a light snack, or a simple lunch while soaking in the artistic ambiance.

• Sit outside on the terrace for the best people-watching and atmosphere.
• Expect a classic, albeit slightly touristy, cafe menu.

Housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, this museum boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The architecture of the building itself is a significant draw.

• Don't miss the view through the giant clock face on the top floor.
• Book tickets online to save time, though queues are generally shorter than the Louvre.

Experience Paris from the water on a relaxing evening cruise along the Seine. See iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame illuminated at night, offering a magical perspective of the city.

• Choose a cruise that departs around sunset for the best light.
• Sit on the upper deck for unobstructed views, but bring a jacket as it can get cool.

Indulge in a unique dining concept: a set menu of perfectly cooked steak-frites with a famous secret sauce. This popular spot offers a no-choice, high-quality meal in a lively bistro setting.

• There is no menu to choose from, just 'steak frites'. You'll be asked how you want your steak cooked.
• Expect queues, especially during peak hours, as they do not take reservations.
• The sauce is legendary; be sure to savor it with the fries.