3 Of The Best: Paris Just In Time For The Olympics
Don’t for a hot minute think that your Insta feed is done with summery European holidays just yet! The Paris Olympics are on the immediate horizon.
Soon the world’s finest athletes will compete - allez L’afrique du Sud et whoop whoop for Spandex - in the City of Lights. If you’re lucky enough to be heading in that direction, I have intel. Sam Growdon and I have been friends for more years than I care to count. We’ve seen each other through countless magazine jobs, yoga poses, late nights, four children (in total!) and, in Sam’s case, many a global move. Of course, one of those moves was to Paris, so I asked for an insider’s guide to city. If you are heading for the summer Olympics, this one is for you Gerda! And Megan, you too!
Sam is not just a former Parisian local, she’s also a Fora travel advisor so doubly clued up and on-the-money when it comes to all things travel-related.
“If you’re anything like me, your streaming algorithm continues to deliver on a love of all things French - Emily’s glamorous adventures in Paris, Christian Dior and Coco Chanel navigating the horrors of WW2 Paris in the The New Look, dreamy chateaux and pieds-a-terre for sale in The Parisian Agency, the hilarious comedy of Call My Agent. Now I’m just gagging for a Bridgerton to marry someone across the pond for real fireworks and a very steamy season!”
1. We’re Eating
Want to sit amongst the real show-stoppers of Paris? Girafe and Monsieur Bleu boast the most exceptional Eiffel tower views. Café Marly in the shadow of Le Louvre and L’Avenue in the Fashion Triangle on Avenue Montaigne are your immediate go-tos for people watching– all with delicious menus and options for brunch, lunch and dinner.
If you’re looking for a more casual and laid-back atmosphere, head to La Maison Rose in Montmartre with its charming pink exterior giving you a glimpse of the ambiance inside. It serves up traditional dishes with a modern twist. For a true taste of Parisian culture, stop by Le Procope, the oldest cafe in Paris. Open since 1686, this historic eatery has had famous guests such as Voltaire, Benjamin Franklin, and even Napoleon Bonaparte. Indulge in classic French dishes while surrounded by the cafe's rich history and old-world charm.
And finally, if this is your first time to Paris, then the historic and iconic cafés of St Germain - synonymous with ornate interiors and some of the greatest French writers, poets and creatives- should be high up on your list… Look out for Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots
2. We’re Drinking
The nightlife in Paris is something you don't want to miss, especially during the Olympics, when I imagine you’ll be able to spot many celebs jetting into the city. From chic rooftop bars to cozy wine bars, the options are endless. One of the best bars to visit is Bramble at Les Ombres, located on the rooftop of the Musée du Quai Branly. Sip on delicious cocktails with breathtaking views of the glittering Eiffel Tower as a backdrop.
Wine lover? Le Baron Rouge is a must-visit. This vibrant wine bar boasts a huge selection of local wines and delicious French appetizers.
Hotel bars are always fun in Paris and they deliver on great people-watching too. Hotel Costes, Bar Les Ambassadeurs at Hotel de Crillion, and of course the infamous Harry’s New York Bar, a legendary bar that has been serving drinks since 1911 and welcomed guests like Hemingway and Sartre. Popular among both locals and tourists, the bar has an intimate vibe and is known for its signature cocktail, The Bloody Mary, which, OBVS, is perfect for any time of the day!
3. We’re Sightseeing
Apart from the famous sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris has many historic landmarks that are worth visiting. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Canal Saint-Martin. This hidden gem is a favourite spot among locals and offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. Take a stroll along the canal, or join a boat tour to explore the surrounding area.
Summer in Paris brings sandy beaches along the Seine River - hard to believe but true - you’ll find riverside bars, food, gelato and deck chairs, so, if you want to spend an afternoon bronzing yourself head to the Paris Plages scattered across the city.
Don't miss out on the Palace of Versailles. It is just a short train ride from Paris - and where I imagine Bridgerton’s Queen Charlotte will find a new lover in the next season (if I were to imagine season 4, that is). This opulent palace was the former residence of the French royal family and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a gorgeous day trip from Paris, for its grandeur, its history and its stunning gardens!
Both Viator or Get Your Guide do Emily in Paris tours. Paris Walks Tours is one of my favourite tour companies with knowledgeable guides that will take you deeper into the stories, people and historical figures that have made Paris such a great city.
The lovely Sam Growdon is currently exploring New York City, but will be in France showing off the best of the South-West region on Instagram. You can follow her @tallgirl_traveltales or find her at Fora Travel.
Save this post for future good times if you find yourself under a blanket on your Very Local Couch watching the summer Olympics 2024 instead! And DM Sam when you’re ready…