Discover Paris: Insider Tips & Hidden Gems

Discover what to do in Paris in September as the city comes alive after summer! Experience the magical blend of warm weather and vibrant cultural events, from the Paralympics and iconic Paris Fashion Week to European Heritage Weekend and Jazz à La Villette. Don't miss special events like Whiskey Live. Explore Parisian markets, enjoy boat tours along the Seine, and soak in the last rays of picnic season. Plan your perfect September in Paris with our guide to the city's top attractions and hidden gems.

Discover 25 essential Paris travel tips, dos and don’ts for a safe, fun, and unforgettable visit. Insider advice for first-time and returning travelers.

The 19e arrondissement of Paris. Maybe you’ve heard of it, and maybe you’ve been wondering if it’s worth a visit. To us, it absolutely is, and for many reasons. The 19e doesn’t try to be something it’s not, and it doesn’t apologize for what it is. It’s a multicultural, lived-in corner of Paris with a strong sense of community, and it boasts some of the city’s best green spaces, like Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de la Villette. It shares some traits with neighboring arrondissements, but each has its own flavor. The 10e and 11e, for example, have become hubs for hipster foodies and bar-hoppers, especially around Canal Saint-Martin and Oberkampf. The 20e, while similarly local in feel, has increasingly attracted more affluent young families, particularly near Gambetta and Père Lachaise. But the 19e remains refreshingly unpolished, while still boasting some great local joints.

When you think of the 18e, your mind might go straight to Montmartre - and you wouldn’t be wrong to think that. The hill of Montmartre takes up much of this arrondissement, but not all of it. Around Montmartre you have some seriously up-and-coming bar and restaurant areas where you can find quite a range of tasty treats. On the actual hill, there are tons of nooks and crannies to discover - from hidden parks to various surprise statues to tucked away coffee shops. We’re going to take you through some of our recommendations for Montmartre and the 18e in general.

Ah Paris 14e. The boring arrondissement. Home to a big old train station and a lot of corpses. There’s not much to eat, drink, or see here if we’re being honest. If you’re really looking to jam a full-day itinerary in, we’d recommend you stick to other arrondissements.

Paris’ 12e arrondissement is an Eastern residential haven for locals; it’s somewhere that feels less city-like, less like a bustling capital. The 12e has more quiet streets, access to the massive Bois de Vincennes, and stays well connected to the rest of Paris by metro. There isn’t much to see by way of museums or monuments here, so let’s jump straight into food and drink. While we wouldn’t really recommend coming to the 12e for anything specific, you might find yourself staying and looking for something to eat close to your hotel or Airbnb. The 12e might not be foodie, per se, but there are still a few options we’d recommend - and you’re close to the 11e, which will make up all the difference!

Did someone say ’The best arrondissement in Paris?’ The beating heart of Paris’ food scene has recently landed in a new district. The 11e has taken the crown from the Marais, is the spot for food, drinks and some of the best coffee in town. This arrondissement used to be known for its nightlife, and if you’re looking for a party you will definitely find one here, but lately the food scene has been taking over the streets north of Bastille. Not just for foodies though, you’ll find some great alternative arts and culture here, as well as a few places for some peace and quiet. The 11e really has it all.

Perhaps one of the most diverse arrondissements in all of Paris, in the 9e you can start the day with some luxury shopping and end it in the seedy belly of Paris’ red light district (if you so desire). Along the way are some of the best coffee shops in the city, amazing local bistros and the odd dive bar or two, of which we are particularly fond. Highlights include the Opera Garnier and the Rue des Martyrs (though we personally wouldn’t stay near the Opera house, just drop in for a visit.) There is plenty to do in the 9e. This blog will touch on a few recommendations, but if you’re interested in even more, be sure to grab our guide. You’ll get instant access to hundreds of recommendations across the city to ensure you have the best time possible in Paris.

Welcome to the 5e arrondissement of Paris, where old-school Paris and student life collide. This neighborhood is lively, fun, and filled with bookstores.The 5e, which makes up the majority of the Latin Quarter (though it does spill over into the 6e!) is home to ancient Roman ruins, the Sorbonne, the Panthéon, and a museum full of dinosaur skeletons. And who doesn’t love dinosaurs?

If Paris were a board game, the 1er arrondissement would be the center square. Home to the Louvre, the Tuileries, and some of the postcard-esque places in the city, many people pass through this neighborhood for its big sights and sounds, but few take the time to really explore it well. It’s surprisingly calm in some parts, full to the brim with history, and worth some time spent lingering.

There’s no shortage of green space in Paris, but some of the best spots are the ones you’d walk right past if you didn’t know to look. These are the calm, slightly secret gardens we keep in our back pocket — perfect for when the Marais feels a little too buzzy and you just want somewhere to sit, snack, and take a breather. Whether you're holding a falafel, a lobster roll, or just your iced coffee, these are our favorite little hideaways.

Discover the cozy magic of Paris in November, where the chillier days bring seasonal charm to life with festive lights, steamy mugs of vin chaud, and cultural highlights like the Paris Photo Exhibition and Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations. From museums and immersive light shows to jazz nights and Thanksgiving feasts, Paris offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor experiences this month. Whether you're looking for art, live music, or a taste of home with turkey and pumpkin pie, there’s something for everyone.

October in Paris is a magical blend of culture, charm, and the first whispers of spooky season. From wine festivals to intimate classical concerts, this month is full of unique events that make the City of Light truly shine. In our latest post, we're exploring five must-see Parisian happenings in October, including the famous Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre, Jazz sur Seine, and the Salon de la Photo. Plus, we're getting into the Halloween spirit with four chilling events, from haunted maze experiences to costume parties.

Planning your trip to Paris? Discover our 25 Essential Dos and Don’ts to navigate the City of Light like a local! From choosing the perfect neighborhood to stay in and packing the right power adaptors, this blog covers everything you need for a smooth and unforgettable Parisian experience. Learn why you should avoid booking accommodations near the Eiffel Tower and where to find the best local haunts for coffee and cuisine. Don’t miss out on crucial tips for navigating pharmacies and transportation, ensuring you're well-prepared for any situation.

Maximize your Paris layover with our ultimate itinerary guide! Discover the best attractions, cafes, and tips to make the most of your 3-8 hour stopover in Paris.

Get the inside scoop on where to watch the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony! Discover top Parisian bars and spots for an unforgettable viewing experience. With the Seine banks closed, find out where to enjoy the ceremony, support local businesses, and savor quality drinks and ambiance. Explore our curated guide to the best bars in Paris for the Olympics and make the most of the Games.

Discover the ultimate guide to the best specialty coffee roasters in Paris. Once known for its classic, yet underwhelming espressos, Paris has transformed into a haven for coffee lovers, offering some of the finest brews in the world. Whether you’re searching for the perfect flat white, a rich espresso, or a flavorful filter coffee, this guide covers the top cafés and roasters across the city. From hidden gems to trendy hotspots, find out where to experience the best of Paris’s coffee culture. Learn which cafés are making waves with their expertly roasted beans, warm ambiance, and delicious pastries. Whether you're a Parisian or visiting the city, our guide will help you navigate Paris’s flourishing coffee scene, ensuring you enjoy the very best coffee Paris has to offer. Explore Paris like a local and savor the city’s top coffee experiences with our curated recommendations and insider tips.

Planning your Paris trip? Explore the best guided tours to see all the top Paris attractions, including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local markets. Whether you're cycling through the city, taking a private walking tour, or enjoying a scooter ride, our curated list of top-rated Paris tours ensures you experience the City of Lights to the fullest. Plus, discover the best places to eat, drink, and snap photos. Optimize your Paris adventure with our expert recommendations and insider tips!

Planning a trip to Paris during the 2024 Olympics? Discover essential details about metro closures, public transport disruptions, and how to navigate the city. Stay updated with our comprehensive guide to the Paris Metro during the Paris Olympics, including station closures and alternative travel tips. Prepare for the Paris 2024 Games with expert advice and local insights from Paris in My Pocket.