Paris might be the most difficult city to write about--because it is and will always be the place I dream about.  The lifestyle, the fashion, the architecture, the effortless beauty.. wine at lunch... reasons go on & on... but I will do my best to continue to add my favorite hotels, restaurants, and spots to go to.  But have no fear, I will never stop traveling here so the list will continue to expand. 

Hotels Stayed At: 

Champs Élysées Plaza : 2 Blocks away from Champs-Élysées at 35 Rue de Berri.  My first trip to Paris was stayed here---and EVERY single trip since, I have stopped back in to grab a drink.  This is a boutique hotel--which you will find is my favorite type of lodging. This hotel was great, besides the charm and detail of the hotel, but also the location.  2 Blocks from this hotel you have a very touristy strip; however, on the back side, you have a low traveled road that leads you to the greatest shopping in the city as well as Place Vendôme. 

La Maison Favart: This boutique hotel is located in the 2nd Arrondissement.  I stayed with my partner in crime,baby sister Dr. Dre, here on our way to Nice & Monaco.  We had a nice stay--cute rooms with an honesty bar.  

Intercontinental Paris Le Grand: We stayed at this hotel during a trip and used points.  This is a fantastic hotel.  Larger than what I prefer; however, it has grand charm.  I'm a complete sucker for detail and charm: drapes, wall paper..etc. I love detail and I love feeling like a princess. My husband is an Ambassador-Spire Elite with IHG.. which means... yes, Upgrades Galore and other perks! *Travel Tip: Sign up with a hotel---and stick with them! Except for special occasions of course. 

Hotel Costes: I like every place I've stayed in Paris; however, this is my favorite hotel.  I almost don't want to share this gem.. because I want it to remain my secret!  The rooms are small; however, every inch is magnificent and full of charm.  This hotel also has my favorite dinner restaurant, in the courtyard.  The hotel is located in Place Vendôme. 

Things to Do:

Eiffel Tower: The thing about the Eiffel Tower--well at least with me, I thought it would be this lame touristy thing to see... But then you see it... and like a giddy 5 year old girl, all your dreams about Paris come true.  SO--you need to see the Eiffel Tower  at day & night.  

WHEN you see it at night, sit on the field on the back side--and bring a bottle of wine... or purchase a cheap one from the boys selling them.  and.... wait for it.... SPARKLE!

Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle, might be the greatest thing in the world. Another great thing to do: One of the Boat tours.  Scott & I took a dinner cruise with a live band.  It was super lame & touristy... and guess what? It was AMAZING! DO it. *Travel Tip: If you have airline or credit card miles see if you can purchase or use miles through them! 

The Louvre & Musée d'Órsay: Now, This needs to be a personal experience with one's desire to be in a museum... should you see it? Yes.. most likely, but only if you aren't on a budget and only if you love museums.  Scott & I are an interesting couple... we are not the biggest Art Museum goers---however, we are in Paris and are supposed to see it... right? So we did.. We sprinted to the Mona Lisa...

You know what our favorite part of the museum was?... the architecture. SO... my point... if you love art history--YOU MUST SEE THIS PLACE. If you are on a budget and don't.. then walk to the park and admire the beautiful architecture. I love the architecture of The Louvre.... As far as art goes.. I like Impressionism: so that is found at d'Órsay. 

Pont des Arts Bridge: This bridge crosses the River Seine and used to be the trendy bridge where you put your "love lock" on.  They have started to take this down, but the bridge is still a gorgeous view & photo opp *Tip: have someone take your photo with the break in the river-two different routes. 

Notre Dame: If in Paris, you kind of need to give respect to the Notre Dame.  In the summer, the line is out the door... in the fall (November)there is no line, so keep this in mind. Also if you are hungry try to eat before or after and not near the Notre Dame, because everything is super touristy and generic. 

Place Vendôme: Vendôme is a square in the 1st arrondissement--and also Jewelry Galore!  Every major jewelry store you can imagine.. think Cartier, Van Cleef and Arpels, Rolex..etc In this square you are walking distance to the L'ouvre, Park, Theater district and greatest shopping at flagship stores. 

Arc de Triomphe: Super Touristy, but for the first time Paris-goer, you kind of have to.  The top gives you a great view of the whole city and the Champs Elysées. 

The Tuileries Garden: Once you are done seeing the museums, Eiffel tower, and all the other to-dos in Paris, sit back and put your heels up here.  

In the summertime, you will see children with miniature sail boats in the fountains, lovers strolling through the park, with the beauty of the city surrounding you... and when its time for a snack... or pint of beer, head to Café Diane. 

St. Germain: Across the river from the Louvre, you can walk across Pont des Arts bridge. This area can be described as possibly the most Classical Parisian neighborhood.  The streets are lined with art galleries, shopping, and cafes. If you have time on your trip to Paris visit St. Germain even for a casual lunch to check out the neighborhood.

Sacré-Cœur: If you want view of Paris, come to this Cathedral on the top of the hill. This is the highest point in the city.  *If you've seen the movie Three Days to Kill, it is the location where Kevin Costner teaches his daughter to ride a bike.

Favorite Places to Eat:

L'Avenue: My favorite time to eat here is at lunch-late afternoon.  Sit outside always.  Great people watching and located in one of my favorite Arrondissements.

 If you care to see some celebs--this might be your spot as it is located near my next stay: Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris. When sitting outside you can view the Eiffel Tower on the back side.  After lunch and a cocktail-walk to the Eiffel Tower. 

Restaurant & Terrace at Hotel Costes: Dinner doesn't get going until 10:30-11:00 so hopefully you are a night owl like myself.  This place is fantastic. Favorite dinner spot--have your concierge make the reservation so you can sit outside in the courtyard.  

Restaurant Le Meurice, L'Arpége, Chez Paul, Frenchie

Although I love just stopping in to the restaurants near Hotel Costes.

Shopping: My favorite past time 

Don't forget to shop your face off!!! And if you do, make sure to get VAT tax back in the airport--you may think it's a pain in the butt, but its not, it makes it cheaper than the states.. so Think Handbags.. lol... but seriously. If you are saving and want something to remember Paris--do it wisely, and that is saving money by getting the VAT back. 

Day Trips:

Palaces of Versailles: If you have an extra day, this is a must.  If the weather isn't perfect.. rent a golf cart--I know it sounds lazy, and I laughed at my sister when she suggested it (per recommendation from her friend) after the trip, it was the best decision of the day, besides getting a pint after. 

Normandy: If you love history, especially WWII history, then this is on your to do list. Just 1hr 47 mins by train.

If you get the chance, read the book: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.