Last week, I made a trip to Paris for both work and leisure, and I’ve brought back some photos if you’d like to have a look…
In previous visits, I’ve predominantly explored Paris during the winter months, so it was delightful to experience it in the spring. The parks were bursting with blooms, and little ones were navigating the grass.
A couple of friends managed to join me as well, which added to the fun.
We booked a family’s home in the 11th arrondissement, a lovely area that exudes a calm and residential vibe.
Guess Who, but with a French twist!
Each day began at a café, such as Boot Café located in the Marais.
How adorable are their stackable circus stools?
We paused for coffee so frequently during our trip that it turned into a running gag. We’d stroll a few blocks, grab a coffee, walk some more, and then relax at a café…
Another day, we ventured to the 7th arrondissement, close to the Eiffel Tower and the Rodin Museum.
Morgane’s brown shirt; my striped shirt
During breakfast, I was excited to visit Morgane Sezalory’s apartment, the founder and creative director of Sezane, whom I’ve known for years. Sitting in her kitchen, we covered a range of topics — family, divorce, work, love, aging, kids, and nothing felt off-limits. She was about to turn 40 days later, so we discussed the anxiety that precedes it and the serenity that follows, haha.
She presented a plate of berries, and soon her remarkably fluffy cat joined us.
After that, feeling motivated, I made my way to the nearby Sézane store, brimming with embroidered dresses and wide-leg jeans…
…and these stunning shoes!
Other shops we were fond of included Merci (a three-story concept store), Bonton (children’s apparel and toys), and Mélodie Graphiques (a stationery shop).
On another afternoon, we visited the David Hockney exhibition at the Fondation Louis Vuitton. At 87, he still sports his trademark round glasses.
We wandered through one room after another filled with artwork — I found myself entering each new space and exclaiming “WOW!” without even realizing it. The vibrant colors! The picturesque English countryside! The captivating stares!
One of my favorite pieces dominated an entire wall — above is just a small snippet — and depicted individuals at an art showcase. I’m not particularly a dog person, but that bulldog melted my heart.
We also enjoyed a delightful lunch at Mokonuts, which might just be the finest restaurant in Paris (a bold claim, I know!).
Run by a husband and wife duo — Moko Hirayama and Omar Koreitem — this tiny treasure is open exclusively for lunch, with a menu that changes daily. We indulged in labneh with soft pita, crispy asparagus, grilled squid, and pork served on a bed of vibrant green peas.
It was one of those lengthy, leisurely meals where our discussions flowed from parenting preteens to managing business accounts to whether people get risqué in bed, haha. Meanwhile, in between bites, we all couldn’t stop saying, “This is the tastiest meal I’ve ever had” and “OMG, is this the best restaurant in Paris? …the world??”
Ultimately, on our final night, we opted to stay in. (Sometimes, while on the go, it’s so nice to unwind, wouldn’t you agree?) We snacked on cheese, olives, and chips while chatting with the windows wide open. Then we indulged in a couple of episodes of The Four Seasons, as one typically does.
The entire journey felt immensely fulfilling. Although I returned to disgruntled boys (“Never leave again!”) and a week of jet lag (“It’s 3 a.m. in Paris right now!”), my heart was brimming and buzzing with female camaraderie and the urge to explore. If you’ve experienced Paris or reside there, I’d love to know your recommendations! Where do you enjoy traveling the most? I’m eager to hear.
We’re also putting together another Cup of Jo post today featuring the clothing color I observed everywhere and a Big Salad issue tomorrow about fashion trends we noticed in Paris, so please sign up here if you’re interested. Thank you very much! xoxo
P.S. Our 2024 Paris journey, along with our 2023 Paris visit. Plus, two enchanting Paris itineraries.
(City photographs and Hockney signage by Alison Piepmeyer. Sézane images by Stella Blackmon. This post is sponsored by Sézane, a brand we have adored and worn for many years. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cup of Jo.)
**A Complete Recap of Our Trip to Paris**
Paris, often called the “City of Light,” is a destination that exceeds every expectation. From its iconic sights and world-renowned cuisine to its delightful neighborhoods and rich heritage, our recent trip to Paris was simply enchanting. Whether you’re planning your inaugural visit or returning for another dose of French charm, here’s a comprehensive summary of our memorable journey to Paris.
—
### Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
We arrived at Charles de Gaulle Airport in the early hours and took a taxi to our hotel located in the Marais district. Renowned for its historic structures and lively ambiance, the Marais provided the perfect starting point for our Parisian escapade. After checking in and freshening up, we ventured out to explore the area.
We meandered through Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest designed squares, and relished a leisurely lunch at a nearby café. The day culminated with a sunset stroll along the Seine River, where we caught our initial sight of the Eiffel Tower in the distance—an awe-inspiring moment that set the tone for the adventures that lay ahead.
—
### Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and River Cruise
Our second day was devoted to some of Paris’s most eminent attractions. We commenced early at the Eiffel Tower, outsmarting the crowds and relishing breathtaking views of the city from the top. From there, we proceeded to the Arc de Triomphe and sauntered along the Champs-Élysées, pausing for coffee and to observe passersby.
In the afternoon, we entered the Louvre Museum. While seeing everything in a single visit is impossible, we made certain to catch glimpses of the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and several other masterpieces. To conclude the day, we embarked on a picturesque Seine River cruise as dusk fell, granting us a unique vantage point of the city’s illuminated bridges and monuments.
—
### Day 3: Art, Culture, and Montmartre
Our third day kicked off at the Musée d’Orsay, home to an incredible array of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The museum itself, set in a former railway station, is a masterpiece in its own right.
Next, we explored Montmartre, a bohemian hilltop district celebrated for its rich artistic history. We visited the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and roamed through Place du Tertre, where local artists showcase their creations. We concluded the day with dinner at a traditional French bistro, enjoying coq au vin and crème brûlée.
—
### Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
A trip to Paris would not be complete without visiting the Palace of Versailles. We made a brief train journey to the lavish estate, where we toured the Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, and the expansive gardens. The magnificence of Versailles was breathtaking, providing an intriguing glimpse into France’s royal history.
—
### Day 5: Shopping and Hidden Gems
Our final full day in Paris was more leisurely. We roamed the boutiques and patisseries of the Left Bank, stopping at Shakespeare and Company, the legendary English-language bookstore. We also discovered hidden gems like the covered passages near Grands Boulevards, filled with charming shops and cafes.
In the evening, we enjoyed a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Paris skyline. Witnessing the Eiffel Tower sparkle one last time was the perfect conclusion to our journey.
—
### Final Thoughts
Our trip to Paris was everything we dreamt it would be and more. The city’s mixture of history, culture, art, and cuisine creates an experience that is both enriching and captivating. Whether you’re admiring centuries-old architecture or sipping espresso at a sidewalk café, Paris has a way of stealing your heart.
If you’re considering a visit, our advice is straightforward: take it slow, embrace the local lifestyle, and allow the city to reveal its magic to you—one cobblestone street at a time. Bon voyage!
