Anytime we fly to Paris from Vancouver, we almost always arrive in the morning, which can be a challenge when checking into a hotel due to the afternoon check-ins. After a few trips, Triet and I said, “Hey, wait a sec… what if we booked our hotels for the day before so we can check in when we land in the morning?” And that’s what we’ve been doing ever since!
Once we make our booking, I’ll email the hotel concierge just to inform them what time we plan on arriving at the hotel so they don’t cancel and consider us no-shows. Now I know—this is certainly a luxury, but if you can swing it, it makes all the difference. Now when it comes to the actual hotels in Paris, we’ve stayed at a few, so let’s dive into those next.
Listen, if you’re filthy rich or just feel like splurging a little for a special occasion like we do every now and then, here’s a few of our favourite higher-end hotels:
- Le Crillon – A timeless and unabashedly elegant hotel that overlooks the Place de la Concorde. How bad can that be?
- Le Meurice – In the heart of historic Paris, Le Meurice is the very epitome of quiet elegance and boasts an incredible artistic spirit.
- Le Bristol – With one of the city’s most prestigious addresses on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Le Bristol is as gorgeous as it is vibrant. And who doesn’t love being only a few steps away from the Champs-Elysées?
- Ritz Paris – If you know me, you know how much I love the Ritz. Let’s just say, if you want to experience the pinnacle of Parisian luxury, look no further than Ritz Paris.
From the restaurants to the bars, the hotel staff and the rooms—every detail in each of these hotels is just absolutely incredible. Regardless of which one you decide to stay at, trust me when I say that you’re in for a fabulous weekend.
Now, the hotels I listed above are certainly a treat, so if you don’t feel like spending your first-born’s tuition on a hotel, here are some other wonderful hotels we’ve enjoyed in one of our favourite neighbourhoods, Saint Germain des Prés:
- Da Vinci Hotel & Spa – Not only is this hotel in a great location, it has wonderful charm and great value.
- Hôtel Pont Royal – Located just a few steps to Le Bon Marché, this hotel is bright, spacious, and has beautiful rooftop views of the city.
- Hôtel Académie – Another excellent option in Saint Germain des Prés with charming rooms and beautiful décor.
When we are at home, I’m the one who tends to sleep in whereas Triet is always the first one up (with Ru, of course). But for some reason, when we’re on holidays, I find myself up at the crack of dawn every day… I suppose that’s what happens when you know there’s a freshly baked pain au chocolat and a cappuccino at Les Deux Magots waiting for you.
Slow mornings have become a ritual for me when I’m in Paris. I love to enjoy my coffee while I people watch and wait for Triet to join me. Once he’s had his chocolat chaud, we’re ready to begin the day.
We usually start with a stroll around Saint Germain, with stops at shops like the iconic Ralph’s and diptyque boutiques—I never come home without a minimum of six candles, I may have a problem. One of our favourite shopping streets in Saint Germain is rue de Rennes, which is filled with charming food shops, clothing stores, bakeries, and wonderful bistros.
Some of our other favourite stores include:
- E. Dehillerin – For every classic kitchen gadget imaginable.
- Muriel Grateau – Fabulous table linens and dishware.
- Merci (Le Marais) – A beautiful concept store with a mix of fashion, homeware, and gifts.
- La Tuile à Loup – A must-visit for the most interesting pottery and gorgeous platters. Make an appointment before shopping!
If we’re still in Saint Germain for lunch, La Coupole never misses. It’s a rather large restaurant, and there always seems to be a table when we waltz in, although a reservation is certainly recommended.
Here are a couple of other places we love in Paris for lunch:
- Bistrot Paul Bert
- Le Bon George (also a wonderful spot for dinner)
- Miznon – Israeli with a French twist.
- Le Chardenoux
- Grande Épicerie de Paris – Heaven in the form of a grocery store.
- Marché aux Puces (Porte de Clignancourt) – The greatest flea market in the city.
- Hotel de la Marine – A fascinating museum recommended by our dear friend, Frank Barron (aka Cake Boy Paris). Frank has such a special love for the city and has written the most gorgeous book on baking with seasonal fruit in France—how fabulous is that?
When it comes to Triet and my favourite spots for dinner, here are some of our absolute musts:
- Verjus – Our favourite restaurant in Paris at the moment.
- Le Voltaire – A timeless Parisian bistro with impeccable service.
- Chez l’ami Louis – A legendary experience if you can get in.
- Ralph’s – Dinner on the terrace is an absolute must.
- Racines – Casual, intimate, and fabulous.
- L’Ami Jean – Do not leave without trying their rice pudding!
- Bistrot des Tournelles – Cozy and classic.
- Bar Hemingway (Ritz Paris) – Makes an amazing dirty vodka martini.
- Bisou – No menu, just tell them what you like!
- Bar 228 (Le Meurice) – The best whiskey sours.
- La Cave du 38 Riv – A charming little jazz club.
- Bambino – A lively cocktail and music lounge.
A few favourite spots for a last-minute Parisian snack before heading home:
- Pain Pain – Great coffee, fresh orange juice, sandwiches, and pastries.
- French Bastards – You can’t go wrong with anything from here.
Now I could keep rambling on, but there should be enough information in this little guide to enjoy a splendid weekend in Paris. In the meantime, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @JonathonHawes with any questions or must-see spots as we visit often.
Now, go and enjoy yourself in Paris!
Warmly,
JJH
