Timeless, layered, and impossibly magnetic, Paris is a city that invites you to slow down and pay attention. The French capital is as known for its art and architecture as it is for its intimate moments, a perfect pastry, a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower at golden hour, or the stillness of a morning walk along the Seine.
Popular since, well, forever, Paris wears its past proudly. Roman ruins hide in plain sight, Haussmannian buildings frame every neighbourhood, and the city’s museum collections span millennia. But this isn’t a city stuck in time. It’s alive with creativity in its food, its fashion, and its ever-shifting cultural mood.
It’s tempting to try and do it all, the Louvre, Montmartre, Versailles, Saint-Germain, every wine bar recommendation you’ve saved on Instagram. But the truth is, Paris isn’t meant to be rushed. Choose a few experiences that speak to you and give them your full attention. Wander aimlessly. Sit still. Let the city reveal itself slowly. That’s where the magic is.
We believe the best trips are deeply personal. Whether it’s a private tour of hidden ateliers, a wine tasting tucked away in the Marais, or dinner reservations at that under-the-radar bistro that doesn’t take walk-ins, we’re here to make it effortless. Just let us know what you love, and we’ll build a getaway around it.
To get you started, here are a few of our favourite places to eat, drink, and explore in Paris. Bon voyage!
Where to Stay
We’ve always believed that where you stay isn’t just a base, it sets the tone for your whole trip. The right hotel can make you slow down, take it all in, and feel something a little extraordinary. Here, we’re sharing places we’ve personally stayed and genuinely loved, the kind of stays that linger in your memory long after check-out. And because we’re always dreaming about our next visit, we’ve also included a few handpicked spots we’d stay next. Each one is chosen with care, blending a mix of character, comfort, and charm, the kind that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Saint James Paris – Our Personal recommendation
The only château hotel in Paris, hidden in plain sight.
Tucked away in the quiet elegance of the 16th arrondissement, Saint James Paris is more than a hotel it’s a dreamlike escape wrapped in ivy and soft grandeur. The only chateau hotel in Paris, it makes you feel as if you’re part of a private club then overnighting in a private home. Saint James Paris offers something rare in Paris: a sense of space, tranquillity, and storybook charm, all just moments from the Arc de Triomphe.
REST
Each of the 50 rooms and suites tells a story, richly layered with bold wallpapers, velvet textures, and antique touches that feel curated rather than themed. Designed by Laura Gonzalez, the interiors balance old-world opulence with contemporary ease, making the space feel indulgent yet intimate. Whether you’re waking up to garden views or soaking in a clawfoot tub after a long day of exploring, the energy here is restorative.
TASTE
The in-house restaurant, Bellefeuille, holds a Michelin star and offers a dining experience that feels as regal as the setting. Chef Julien Dumas draws from nature, expect dishes that are thoughtful, seasonal, and beautifully plated. Breakfast under the glass roof, dinner in the lush garden courtyard this is Parisian dining at its most refined, without ever feeling fussy.
RESTORE
Slip downstairs to the Guerlain spa, a quiet sanctuary of marble, soft light, and expert hands. Whether you book a bespoke facial, a massage, or simply take a moment in the hammam, the experience is deeply calming. There’s also a library bar that feels straight out of a 19th-century novel ideal for a nightcap or quiet read after a long day.
Fasttracked note: If you’re looking for something both central and transportive, Saint James Paris is a rare gem. It’s romantic, refined, and utterly Parisian in all the right ways.
For more on this stay, including our room, service highlights, and the details that made it unforgettable, read the full hotel review.
If you’re curious, you can see the rooms and availability here.
Where we’d stay next – Relais Christine
A luxurious boutique hotel with an ultra central location on the Left Bank in Paris.
Slip away from the rhythm of Saint-Germain’s cafés and concept stores, down a vine-draped lane that feels worlds away from the Left Bank bustle, and you’ll find one of Paris’s best-kept hotel secrets.
Why it’s on our list
Relais Christine is the kind of place that quietly exceeds expectations, not with grandeur, but with discretion and depth. Its location in Saint-Germain-des-Prés places you within a short walk of the Seine, tucked on a peaceful cul-de-sac that feels more like a private passage than a public street.
The atmosphere is intimate and hushed, with just 48 individually designed rooms, it feels like slipping into a private residence rather than checking into a hotel.
Beneath the former vaults, you’ll find, a spa by Guerlain, a leafy courtyard garden and bicycles are available for morning rides along the river. Relais Christine is a hotel that holds space for both retreat and romance, without ever asking for attention.
Fasttracked Note: One for the romantics, private, and just discreet enough to feel like yours alone.
If you’re curious, you can see the rooms and availability here.
Where to eat in Paris
Paris is, quite simply, one of the greatest food cities in the world. With more Michelin stars than any other country, France sets the global standard and nowhere is that more beautifully expressed than in the capital. But beyond fine dining, what makes Paris special is its quiet mastery. From neighbourhood gems to bold, globally inspired kitchens, each meal feels intentional and intimate.
Our favourites reflect that range. Table by Bruno Verjus offers ingredient-led refinement that borders on the poetic. The Butcher of Paris is a meat-lover’s haven with market charm, and Double Dragon adds a punch of energy with its playful, high-flavour take on Asian fusion. Different styles, same attention to detail.
Not in a rush, but not in the mood to scroll? Here’s a quick edit of everywhere we’d eat.
Where to Eat | The Fasttracked Edit
Table, Bruno Verjus
Experience: Sublime, singular, and deeply personal.
Standout: Turbot, cut from the bone and full of gelatin, with a shellfish reduction.
The Butcher of Paris
Experience: Old-school bistro energy in a butcher’s apron. Smoky, honest, and meat-forward.
Standout: The steak tartare.
Double Dragon
Experience: Fiery, Fun, Feminine. A riot of colour, sound, and spice from the Franco-Asian duo behind it all
Standout: BBQ porcini, oyster mushrooms and tofu with adobo sauce.
Table, Bruno Verjus
Nestled in the 12th arrondissement, Table by Bruno Verjus, brings an unwavering commitment to sourcing the finest produce, treating each element with the reverence it deserves.
The menu, ever-evolving based on the day’s best offerings, might feature dishes like “Liquid Sushi” a delicate composition of Utah Beach oyster with a watercress emulsion and grilled leek or the “Graal,” a blend of fried veal brain, ginger, turmeric, and hand-harvested sea urchins.
Dining here is an intimate affair, with seating around a curved zinc counter that offers a front-row view of the culinary artistry. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, allowing the food to take center stage. It’s an experience that lingers, much like the flavors on your palate.
Fasttracked tip: Reserve a seat at the counter for an immersive experience.
The Butcher of Paris
Tucked within the historic Marché des Enfants Rouges, The Butcher of Paris offers a rustic yet refined take on meat-centric dining. This spot is a haven for those who appreciate the nuances of expertly prepared meats.
The atmosphere is friendly, with communal tables fostering a sense of togetherness among diners. The menu is straightforward but executed with finesse, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. Pair your meal with a selection from their impressive natural wine list for a satisfying experience.
Fasttracked tip: Arrive early to explore the market before settling in for your meal. The charcuterie board is a must-try, showcasing a variety of cured meats that highlight the butcher’s expertise.
Double dragon
In the heart of the 11th arrondissement, Double Dragon stands out with its vibrant fusion of Asian cuisines, brought to life by sisters Tatiana and Katia Levha. The menu is a playful mix of flavors and textures, featuring dishes like pork ravioli with homemade sriracha, caramelized pork cheeks, and a cassava cake with coconut ice cream.
The ambiance is lively and unpretentious, with a bustling open kitchen and a playlist that keeps the energy high. It’s a place that invites sharing, both of food and stories, making it perfect for groups or adventurous solo diners.
Fasttracked tip: Book a table ahead, especially for evenings, this spot fills quickly. For the full experience, order a mix of small plates to share. The menu is designed for discovery, so lean into the unexpected and have some fun!
Where to drink in Paris
Paris has always been a city that understands pleasure. Whether it’s a long lunch in the shade of a courtyard café, a glass of wine beside the Seine, or a midnight stroll, there’s a rhythm here that slows you down and draws you in.
But what makes Paris truly remarkable, and why it remains one of the best food and drink cities in Europe, is the attention to every detail. It’s not just about where you go, it’s about how it makes you feel. The bar scene is no exception. Paris is home to some of the most thoughtful, creative, and intimate drinking spaces in the world. Places that are as much about mood as they are about menus. Where you’re greeted with warmth, encouraged to linger, and often surprised in the best way.
We’ve handpicked three of our favourites that capture the soul of the city in very different ways. Each one reflects the layers that make Paris special, heritage without pretension, creativity rooted in care, and spaces that feel as personal as they do polished.
Not in a rush, but not in the mood to scroll? Here’s a quick edit of everywhere we’d go for a drink.
Where to Drink | The Fasttracked Edit
Bar Nouveau
Experience: A gilded Belle Époque room with some of the most forward-thinking drinks in Paris.
Order: Anything with calvados or armagnac, the bar celebrates France in a glass.
Little Red Door
Experience: Drinks built around abstract concepts and seasonal ingredients. A Parisian institution.
Order: Let the season you visit inspire your choice.
The Cambridge Public House
Experience: Laid-back but world-class. British pub bones with a serious cocktail soul.
Order: Anything but Guinness, you’re in France.
Bar Nouveau
A short stroll from the bustle of Strasbourg Saint Denis leads you to Bar Nouveau, a space that feels like stepping into a different time, and then being gently reminded you’re still in the heart of one of the most dynamic cocktail scenes in the world.
There’s a quiet reverence here for the past. Curved wooden details, stained glass, warm brass. It’s all beautifully Parisian, but it never leans too far into nostalgia. Instead, the team behind the bar bring a fresh energy to every drink, reimagining classics with a light touch and a creative eye. Their menu flows with ease, with drinks that highlight natural ingredients, seasonal French produce, and a kind of elegance that feels effortless.
Bar Nouveau isn’t loud. It doesn’t need to be. This is a place for considered conversation, for detail lovers, for those who find comfort in subtlety. Come early and take your time. Let the experience unfold.
Fasttracked tip: Ask the bartender for a drink inspired by the season. They’re generous with their knowledge and genuinely care about finding something that fits your mood.
Little Red Door
Tucked into an unassuming street in the Haut Marais, Little Red Door is the kind of place you might walk past if you didn’t know better. But behind that little red door is one of the most imaginative drinking experiences Paris has to offer.
This isn’t just about cocktails. It’s about storytelling. Each menu tells a new tale, built around a concept, from architecture to emotion to colour, with drinks that surprise, provoke, and delight. Ingredients are locally sourced, flavours are layered, and the bartenders are as curious as they are skilled.
There’s a playfulness to the space. Rustic wood, candlelight, exposed brick. But the service is sharp and intuitive, grounding the creativity with a sense of care and confidence that makes the whole experience feel welcoming rather than performative.
Fasttracked tip: If you’re into design and creativity, ask about the inspiration behind the current menu. The team love sharing the ideas that shaped it, and it adds a whole new layer to your visit.
The Cambridge Public House
There’s a moment, just before you push open the door to The Cambridge Public House, where Paris feels like it slows down. Tucked discreetly between galleries and boutiques in the Marais, this understated gem blends the familiar warmth of a British pub with the elegance and craft you’d expect from one of Paris’s most celebrated cocktail spots.
Inside, it’s low lit and inviting. The kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you with grandeur. It doesn’t need to. There’s an unspoken rhythm here: bartenders who remember your face, seasonal drinks served with care, and a room full of quiet conversation and subtle clinks of glass.
The cocktail menu is thoughtful and inventive. Small batch spirits, house made infusions, unexpected pairings that somehow feel obvious once tasted. Whether you opt for one of their clever signature cocktails or settle in with a classic, it all feels considered. Personal. Like someone made it just for you.
We visited on a Thursday evening, just as the golden hour light dipped below the rooftops, and found ourselves lingering longer than planned. This isn’t a place you rush. It’s a place you return to.
Fasttracked tip: Sit at the bar if you can. There’s something special about watching the team work. They’re not just bartenders, they’re quiet craftsmen. And if you’re not sure what to order? Trust them.
Where to enjoy a coffee and a patisserie
There are few pleasures more Parisian than sitting with a coffee and something sweet, watching people walking by, going about their day. From gilded institutions to quietly inventive bakeries, cafés in Paris are about more than caffeine, they’re about pause and ritual.
We’ve selected a few places we keep coming back to. Whether it’s the comfort of a classic or the charm of a hidden gem, each one offers something worth passing by for.
Café de Flore
Some places become famous. Others become timeless let me introduce you to Café de Flore.
Yes, it draws a crowd. But there’s a reason it still matters, the service is snappy, the atmosphere is great, and your coffee comes with a side of history. Writers, philosophers, and artists have all found their way here, and it still feels like the kind of place where stories begin.
Come for the espresso, stay for the people-watching, and don’t skip the tarte fine aux pommes or the chocolat chaud à l’ancienne if you’re in the mood for something indulgent.
Fasttracked tip: Go early in the morning or just before golden hour, it’s worth the wait
Mokonuts
Tucked into the 11th arrondissement, Mokonuts is the kind of café that doesn’t shout, it speaks softly and leaves a lasting impression.
Run by Moko Hirayama and Omar Koreitem, this tiny spot is part bakery, part lunch café, and all heart. The coffee is excellent, but what you’ll remember are the cookies! Chewy-edged, just-sweet-enough, and full of unexpected combinations like white chocolate with miso or sumac and apricot.
This cafe is different, it’s a place where you can enjoy something handmade, quietly remarkable, and just a little different from what you were expecting.
Fasttracked tip: The cookie flavours change daily, and they often sell out. Arrive mid-morning for the best selection.
Coutume
For those who like their brews with intention, Coutume is a must. One of the pioneers of the specialty coffee movement in Paris.
The space is light-filled and minimal, the baristas are deeply knowledgeable, and the coffee is roasted in-house. Choose from V60s, aeropress, or espresso-based drinks and don’t miss the seasonal filter options if you’re in the mood to try something new.
Pair your drink with one of their rotating pastries or a perfectly simple tartine, and you’ve got the kind of morning that elevates your day.
Fasttracked tip: If you’re curious about different brew methods, the staff are happy to guide you through. This is a place for asking questions and trying something new.
Let the front desk know you’re coming
If Saint James Paris sounds like your kind of base, you can explore rooms, availability, and seasonal offers here.
Or let us know, we’ll take care of the rest.