Famously called the city of lights and love, as it turns out, Paris is also the city of delicious delights. While the popular Eiffel Tower may be the first postcard image that pops into mind, the French city offers much more than the iconic landmarks (although they are remarkable). This beautiful city is a place of pleasure for your eyes, taste-buds, and style.
We spoke to the man who is helping run one of the most glamorous brands, Marzook. Julien Daou, the Brand Manager of Marzook, takes us on a delightful journey through the cobblestone streets of Paris.
A Julien-Approved Parisian Trip
Julien believes that no matter where you come from or what you’re looking for, the city of fashion, love, and lights has something unique to offer. “It depends on everyone’s interest and what you’re looking to engage with in Paris,” he says.
From must-visit restaurants to charming shopping destinations to lesser-known sights, ahead Julien shares his Paris recommendations that deserve a place on your travel bucket list.
See These Transformative Locations
La Petite Ceinture
In the heart of Paris lies a hidden gem called La Petite Ceinture. “It is an abandoned railway that was once a bustling transport route in the city in the mid 19th century,” explains Julien. As you explore La Petite Ceinture, translating to The Little Belt, you’ll see the beauty of the forgotten place: bridges adorned with graffiti and overgrown archways. From 1852 to 1934, it operated as a railway line for a steam train around Paris. Today, it stands as a testament to Paris’ ability to evolve while retaining the elements of its past.
PS: Make sure to bring a flashlight if you want to explore this wonder!
Montmartre Vineyards
“This is one of the last remaining vineyards in Paris,” claims Julien. “Most tourists don’t know about it.” Also called Vigne du Clos Montmartre, this spectacular place is tucked away in the little side streets of Sacré-Coeur. It was once part of the city’s oldest tradition of winemaking, serving as an unofficial haunt for artists, painters, and writers. Today, the Montmartre Vineyards still feature long, winding streets and whimsical architecture that reminds visitors of olden times. If you’re looking to tour the last vineyard of Paris, be sure to book in advance as the tours only happen during harvest season and slots are limited.
The Secret Gardens Of Le Marais
“Le Marais Gardens, or as they call it, The Secret Gardens of Le Marais, are a cluster of public parks and gardens that are located in the historic district. The Le Marais neighbourhood and its cobblestone streets was the favoured quartier of the French aristocracy between the 12th to 17th century. The aristocrats were known to appreciate nature hence they built little gardens all nestled away behind imposing limestone facades you can easily overlook.
Sip & Savour The Delicacies
Any Parisian adventure is not complete without a sip of their beverages and nibble of its diverse and rich gastronomical offerings. The café culture in Paris is legendary, moreso, the mouth-watering pastries and gourmet delicacies. Let’s dive into where you can find these experiences, as recommended by Julien.
Gigi Paris
According to Julien, “This is one of the best restaurants in Paris with a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower.” It is nestled in the exclusive Golden Triangle, with the Eiffel Tower in sight and the Théâtre des Champs Elysées downstairs. Gigi brings a slice of Italy to one of Paris’ most elite neighbourhoods as its first ever home. Authentic Italian flavours curated from the finest produce, as well as the most tantalising aperitivos await you in Gigi’s elegant abode. “Visit this place at sunset and stay for dinner,” recommends Julien.
Café Kitsuné Palais Royal
Café Kitsuné Palais Royal is situated in the Palais Royal district, a historic and culturally rich area in the heart of Paris. Known for its unique blend of coffee culture, fashion, and music, it attracts a fashionable and diverse crowd. “It’s a relaxing place to have coffee and deserts.” The ambiance is typically relaxed, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind.
Loulou Paris
Loulou Paris is known for its chic and stylish ambiance. The interior is often described as elegant and contemporary, providing a sophisticated setting for diners. Given its location and reputation, it tends to attract a fashionable and cosmopolitan clientele. “I prefer to go there for lunch,” says Julien. “It’s a cosy place to visit and enjoy the food.”
It is a popular choice for those looking for a stylish dining experience in the city. In addition to its dining offerings, Loulou often features an extensive selection of cocktails and beverages. The bar may be a lively spot for those looking to enjoy a drink in a trendy atmosphere.
Shop & Discover The Fabulous Fashion
Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché is one of the oldest and most prestigious department stores in the world. It is known for its wide selection of luxury goods as well as its elegant shopping atmosphere. Its history begins in 1838 when it opened as a small novelty shop selling textiles at the intersection of rue de Sèvres and rue du Bac. In 1852, it became the first Parisian department store under the influence of Aristide Boucicaut and his wife. By 1888, Le Bon Marché occupied the entire block. Today, this beautiful store that was crafted by architects Alexandre Laplanche and Louis-Charles Boileau serves as a connection between the city’s history of fashion as well as its innovative vision for the future.
Kith Paris
Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a sneakerhead, or simply appreciate innovative brands, Kith is a name worth knowing. It is not just a lifestyle brand, but also a retail store. It was founded by Ronnie Fieg who is well-known in the footwear world. Today, Kith is renowned for its high-profile collaborations with established brands like Nike, Adidas, and Coca-Cola. These limited-edition releases often sell out within minutes, creating a sense of exclusivity and desirability around the Kith brand.
Samaritaine
Owned by LVMH, Samaritaine is a large department store in Paris located in the first arrondissement. In 1870, Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louis Jane first opened the doors to Samaritaine. Classified as a historical landmark, this store overlooks the Seine. Its art deco facade was built by Henri Sauvage, and its interiors match the same movement. Today, la Samaritaine is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, making it a popular destination for both shopping and dining.
Experiences You Don’t Want To Miss
Julien’s recommendations extend beyond dining experiences, offering a diverse range of activities to suit different interests. For those intrigued by brand innovation, a visit to the LV Foundation provides insight into the creative world of fashion. Alternatively, exploring the architectural wonders of Paris from the vantage point of a boat trip offers a unique perspective on the city’s iconic landmarks. Finally, art lovers can immerse themselves in the world-renowned collections at the Louvre museum. Whether it’s fashion, architecture, or art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and explore in the vibrant city of Paris.
Written by Menyene Silas
Images courtesy of Julien Daou and the places mentioned above.
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