Charmaine Abomnes, owner of Parisian London-based bistro, Bon Vivant tells us the best places to visit in Paris
Words Charmaine Abomnes
As Absolutely’s very own Paris expert I give you the low down on where to dine, drink, stay, shop, and relax in my home city.
Where To Eat
Le Klay
This restaurant belongs to the fashionable Klay Gym. It serves healthy dishes such as super-salads and bowls of grainy goodness. They also do great brunches on weekends.
Daroco
This is an Italian restaurant in the historical Jean Paul Gaultier building. The pizzas and cocktails are amazing!
Mamma Primmi
All the restaurants from the Big Mamma Group are to die for! They create fresh homemade pasta right before your eyes. They also have a fabulous cocktail list.
Hotel Costes
You cannot go to Paris without stopping by the Famous hotel Costes. Trust me on this one!
Where To Drink
Le Faust
This bar sits by the River Seine. Its great for a typical aperitif à la française. This alfresco terrasse is right on the shore, so its the perfect daytime people watching spot – it’s also a great place for a late night date.
Chalet des Iles
This bar is in the Bois de Boulogne and is accessible via a speedy two minute boat ride. It’s a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
La Nuba
This is a great evening hangout. The rooftop bar sits above the River Seine. It also has a great nightlife scene. Parisiens flock here during the summer months to dance the night away.
Where To Stay
Mama Shelter
This boutique hotel and restaurant is a trendy place to stay. Check out the eye catching ‘industrial-chic’ style rooms.
Hotel Particulier Montmartre
This 19th century townhouse sits in a private garden. I would say it’s one of the most beautiful hotels in Paris. Montmartre is my favourite area in Paris. It has such a laid-back vibe.
Terrass’ hotel
This stunning hotel has a rooftop bar and restaurant with views of the Eiffel Tower. A great place to view the Bastille Day fireworks in style!
Where To Shop
Sezane
This is France’s first online fashion label, and my favourite French clothes brand. You can order some gorgeous buys straight to your hotel. You’ll need to be nifty though – as soon as a new collection comes out everything sells out in minutes!
Le Marais
This is one of the best neighbourhoods for a day of shopping, eating and going out. The trendy French brands are all here including Sandro, Maje, Iro, and more!
Where To Relax
jardin des tuilleries
I love going to the jardin des tuilleries on a nice day to sit in the sun with a picnic. Heaven!
The Clarins Molitor Spa
If you like to relax in style then the Molitor has the only outdoor swimming pool in Paris. If you find the spa a bit too expensive, you can always go there for a drink and then you can still use their pool – sneaky!
What To Visit
Musé d’Orsay
This French art museum is set in a former Beaux Arts railway station. It also has stunning architecture.
Paris Catacombs
These incredible underground ossuaries house the remains of more than 6 million people. It’s a fascinating trip scaling a 1.5km tunnel at the bottom of 130 steps.