Like a Local: Travel Tips from the Locals of Paris

From the charming port of Honfleur you can make your way to Paris. While this destination has its usual allures, like climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower, there’s more to the City of Light than meets the eye. Blend in with the locals and discover the city the way they know it.

Shopping Beyond the Champs-Elysées
The 7L Bookstore, located in the 7th arrondissement and established by fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, this bookshop is a bibliophile’s dream. Filled with collections about architecture, interior design, photography and design, as well as rare books, it’s prime shopping for those seeking distinctive mementos.

Near Champs-Elysées but located in the arrondisements along the surrounding avenues you’ll find the Golden Triangle, home to iconic fashion houses and high-end boutiques. Discover the glamor of haute couture powerhouses Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Hermès, the flagship of which spans three levels with the building’s original wood-paneled façade.

Fine Dining at Modern Bistros

Michelin-starred restaurants often hold all the prestige and glamor, but there are simpler eateries that offer fare and ambience just as delicious and luxurious. Le Comptoir du Relais in the sixth arrondissement, established by Yves Camdeborde, is often booked far in advance due to its popularity with the locals. Sample their famous foie gras for a culinary experience like none other. Or try Clover Grill, established by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Francois Piège, where the beef is grilled or smoked to perfection.

Admire Art at Smaller Museums

Go ahead and take a little time at the Louvre but make time for exhibits at the Musée de l’Orangerie at the end of the Tuileries Gardens and Musée Rodin, standing within an illuminated villa in an enchanting garden. For the largest collection of Monet paintings, visit the Musée Marmottan. If you’re looking for a more contemporary perspective of what is considered art, check out Palais Galliera, Paris’ leading fashion museum with an exhibit on the work of Gabrielle Chanel.

Engage in Flâner
While it’s literal meaning is “to stroll,” the French word flâner more suggests the idea of walking the city to experience it. Paris’ city center is easily walkable at only a couple of square miles. To go beyond, hop on the metro and see where the tracks take you. Or, to stay aboveground and enjoy the views along your journey, ride a Vélib bike.

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