36 Hours in Paris

As our next ‘reading’ week approaches and the days grow longer, Paris seems like the perfect destination for those of us craving some culture, a corner café, and a cigarette. Though it feels too grand to explore in just three days, here is a small, delicious taste of all the city has to offer. And, knowing that there are more than enough Paris travel guides out there, I’ll try to avoid the traditional Louvre to Ladurée to Eiffel Tower itinerary.

DAY ONE

16:00 Idling by the SeineStart your trip with a relaxed evening by the Seine. Hit up the nearest Carrefour, grab some cheese, a baguette, and a bottle of wine — if you’re nice, they’ll open it up for you at checkout. The best access is just under the Louvre, where you can find a spot by the riverbank to bathe in the sun.

19:30 Dinner at Brasserie des PrésFor dinner, head to this elegant brasserie in Saint-Germain. Make a reservation well in advance if you don’t want to wait in line. The menu is a perfectly curated selection of traditional French favourites — I recommend the steak tartare with fries and their Paris Brest for dessert. If you fancy a drink after dinner, head upstairs to their chic speakeasy; hidden in the attic, ‘Grouvie’ hosts a sultry, dimly lit atmosphere with delicious cocktails.

22:00 Jazz at Caveau de la HuchetteYes, I know, pretty touristy, but well worth the hype. This jazz club is set in a warmly lit cellar filled with people dancing and horns blazing. However, if you’re looking for something a little less mainstream, head slightly out of Paris to La Gare - Le Gore. Situated in an abandoned train station, the bar has live jazz sets upstairs and an edgy techno club beneath.

DAY TWO

For your second day, explore the best of the Parisian neighbourhoods, (at least, in my opinion) Le Marais.

10:00 The Centre PompidouThis modern art museum boasts an incredible collection, including Duchamp's iconic Fountain — known by most as that Dadaist urinal — the blue works of Miró, and Chagall’s masterpieces. Note that the museum will close for five years starting in late 2025, so visit while you can!

13:00 Lunch at Chez MarianneThis charming spot in Le Marais offers delicious Middle Eastern-inspired plates — perfect for a relaxed lunch with mezze-style sharing plates.

14:30 Vintage ShoppingWander through the many curated vintage boutiques scattered throughout Le Marais. Some of my favourites include: Système Solère (Temple du Vintage), THE ROOM, and Vintage Désir.

19:00 Light dinner and drinks Aux Deux AmisThis beloved wine bar, famously visited by Anthony Bourdain, is a must-go. Get a glass of natural wine (or better, a bottle) and share seafood tapas among friends in a lively atmosphere.

22:00 Night OutClubs in Paris can be daunting and hard to get into, but here are some of the best. Silencio, a stylish club designed by filmmaker David Lynch, hosts cool house music and even cooler people. Some others include Medellin or Mirage (reggaeton), Le Carmen (cool baroque interior), Pamela (‘70s/electronic). But whatever you do, don’t go to Pachamama.

DAY THREE

09:00 Breakfast at Les Petits MitronsFor your final morning, venture up to Montmartre and stop by this charming bakery. Grab a bag of croissants, a slice of tart, or their decadent dark chocolate chip cookies. Best of all, it’s run by the grandparents of one of our very own St Andreans!

10:00 Sacré-CœurTake your pastries to the summit of Paris; Sacré-Cœur. Take a seat on the steps and enjoy the views over the city.

12:00 Final Stop at MamicheBefore heading to the airport, swing by Mamiche for a last taste of Paris. Their Pain aux Raisins is exceptional, and the Baguette au Beurre et Jambon is the perfect snack for your journey home.

Photo by Anna-Marie Regner