The El Camino Travel Guide to Paris
Written by Sarah Tinoco
Source: Cheval Blanc Paris
Paris—what more is there to say? This magical city needs no introduction. It’s a world-class city of culture, cuisine, and couture. It exudes romance, from the Eiffel Tower, down the Seine, to the Louvre, and far beyond. It’s impossible not to fall in love with this city, and if you don’t, perhaps you’re not allowing yourself to surrender to its allure. “When someone says they don’t like Paris, it’s typically because they likely weren’t there long enough,” ECT editorial director and former resident of Paris, Emily P., says. “Three days isn’t enough. Go for a week minimum. “You can’t really grasp the quieter beauty of Paris unless you’re there longer.” The best way to experience Paris? By yourself. Paris happens to be the perfect city for solo travelers. Here, you can spend a day alone strolling through gardens, wandering a museum, and dining at a brasserie, and no one will bat an eye at the sight of you doing it all on your own. What’s not romantic about that? Ready to take the time to indulge?
As Paris is overflowing with experiences you must see and do, we’ve narrowed down some of the most recommended places to eat, drink, explore, and stay in this city by our ECT Clubhouse community, including ECT Clubhouse experts and members Emily P., Maya O., Kate S., Kellie M., Jane S., Frederique S., Jasmine T., Charlotte S., and Susan N. . This is by no means the best of Paris (you can Google to find that 😏), but this is a glimpse of our version of Paris—taking a turn off-the-beaten-path or a longer Metro ride to a less-visited Arrondissement.
Stay
Revel in Cheval Blanc Paris, a recently opened 5-star luxury hotel in the 1st Arrondissement directly across from the Seine. Splurge on a stay at this centrally located hotel, just a five-minute walk from the Louvre, and an even shorter stroll to Pont Neuf. Cheval Blanc’s 72 rooms are housed in La Samaritaine, the iconic luxury department store within a stunning Art Deco building, allowing for the most lavish experience in the city. Rooms are brightly lit with natural light and feel serene with a simple color palette of white, off-white, and beige. Each room includes a soaking tub and spacious, marbled shower, plus a walk-in closet, perfect for extended stays. Cheval Blanc offers a number of dining options on-premise, including Le Tout-Paris, a rooftop cocktail bar and brasserie with unbeatable panoramic views of the Seine and the city.
Also included in the guide:
A boutique hotel that was once a family home and offers only five suites, each eclectically designed with Art Deco and contemporary influence.
A Belle Époque-era “pleasure house” where each room is designed with bold jewel tones, from lavish wallpaper to grandiose headboards and vintage-inspired lighting.
Source: Maison Chateau Rouge
Eat
Grab a table at Le Mary Celeste, a modern French spot in Le Marais, Freddie recommends. Le Mary Celeste serves small, tapas-style plates and natural wine. Don’t miss the fresh oysters and os à mouelle, or bone marrow, and their natural wines by the glass and craft cocktails.
Also included in the guide:
French bistro classics that are served over four rustic-chic floors, including a sunny open-air patio and a rooftop overlooking Montmartre.
Where to go for “The best falafel I’ve had in my entire life anywhere in the world.”
An old-school bistro offering a traditional lunch experience with its exceptional French cuisine.
Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.
Source: Cheval Blanc Paris
Shop
Bask in the color and creativity of Maison Château Rouge, a concept store in the neighborhood of Chateau Rouge in the 18th Arrondissement. Co-founded by Youssouf Fofana, Maison Château Rouge is named “maison,” a word that is often reserved by luxury French design houses, and Château Rouge for the predominantly African neighborhood the boutique is located in. Pop in to shop the current collection, then be sure to wander the neighborhood to immerse yourself in the culture of this community.
Also included in the guide:
Top picks for vintage designers and other one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find back home
Where to find the biggest selection in Paris of beauty items at discount prices, not available over the counter in the US.
Source: Le Mary Celeste