#DCMOMENTS PARIS GUIDE
by WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY POLINA BURASHNIKOVA
POLABUR W
Paris never gets old, there’s always something new to explore and see. Countless museums (from the famous to the hidden gems), cafés, historical monuments and picturesque views — Paris has it all.
During my last trip I was lucky enough to stay in the two most gorgeous hotels in Paris — Le Meurice and Hôtel Plaza Athénée, and share my favourite spots around the city in this guide. I’ve tried to combine some of the historical monuments that you absolutely can’t miss, with more secret spots that will make you feel just like a local.
PALAIS GARNIER
Why should you go there? One of the most famous opera houses stunning inside and out.
What’s a must-have? Seeing the stunning ceiling of the auditorium which was painted by famous Russian-French painter, Marc Chagall.
When’s the best time to go? After the opera closes to the general public, on a private tour. Having the Grand Foyer just for yourself is very unique.
8 RUE SCRIBE, 75009 PARIS
LA MAISON ROSE
Why should you go there? A beautiful corner tucked away from the busy streets of Montmartre. La Maison Rose is also one of the most famous cafés in Montmartre.
What’s a must-have? You can find many traditional French dishes at La Maison Rose, so ask the staff for their best recommendations for the season.
When’s the best time to go? Early in the morning or at sunset for the beautiful light on the café. In spring and summer the building is covered in beautiful ivy.
2 RUE DE L’ABREUVOIR, 75018 PARIS
EIFFEL TOWER VIEW
Why should you go there? Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, rue de l’Université is a street with a great view of the Eiffel Tower. This spot is beautiful in any season and anytime of day.
What’s a must-have? As the Eiffel Tower is very close, make sure you kneel and take a photo from below to capture the whole tower in the shot.
When’s the best time to go? If you go after the sun sets, you can wait for when the lights come on and the tower starts to sparkle — it’s magical!
RUE DE L’UNIVERSITÉ, 75007 PARIS
LE MEURICE
Why should you go there? Le Meurice is ideally located in the historical centre of Paris, right next to Le Louvre and the famous Tuileries Garden.
What’s a must-have? Try the world-famous pastries created by pastry chef Cédric Grolet, served at tea time, lunch and dinner at Restaurant Le Dalí in a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
When’s the best time to go? Winter to enjoy the festive decorations rue de Rivoli, autumn to see the Tuileries Garden and take in its orange colours, spring to see the city in full bloom, or summer to enjoy the fountains and long evenings. Le Meurice is always a good idea.
228 RUE DE RIVOLI, 75001 PARIS
LE CONSULAT
Why should you go there? Le Consulat is another famous Montmartre café that used to be popular among many famous artists — notably Picasso, Sisley, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and Monet.
What’s a must-have? Have a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and enjoy people watching as you imagine what Montmartre was like decades ago.
When’s the best time to go? If you want to get a beautiful photo, make sure to go early in the morning as the streets get very busy during the day.
18 RUE NORVINS, 75018 PARIS
PALAIS ROYAL AND GARDENS
Why should you go there? Palais Royal used to be the house of royal families before the Palace of Versailles was built. The gardens of the palace are very popular amongst visitors and locals, as well as the courtyard with its 260 black and white striped columns by Daniel Buren.
What’s a must-have? Reading a book on one of the iconic green chairs in the park, and getting coffee at Café Kitsuné.
When’s the best time to go? For the best photo opportunities, go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. It’s busiest at lunchtime, especially when the weather is sunny.
6 RUE DE MONTPENSIER, 75001 PARIS
CAFÉ DE FLORE
Why should you go there? Located on Boulevard Saint-Germain, this is one of the oldest and most famous cafés in town. A scenic spot for people watching, especially if you get a table outside.
What’s a must-have? Coffee and fresh strawberries with whipped cream. And a croissant (or brioche), of course!
When’s the best time to go? Come early in the morning to get a table outside.
172 BOULEVARD SAINT-GERMAIN, 75006 PARIS
HÔTEL PLAZA ATHÉNÉE
Why should you go there? A Haute Couture hotel located on the prestigious avenue Montaigne, a few steps from the Eiffel Tower.
What’s a must-have? A room with a view of the Eiffel Tower — breathtaking, and a cocktail at Le Bar.
When’s the best time to go? The gorgeous inner courtyard of the hotel — La Cour Jardin, is in full bloom in summer. The same goes for the façade of the hotel which is covered with beautiful red geraniums during the summer months.
25 AVENUE MONTAIGNE, 75008 PARIS
MUSÉE BOURDELLE
Why should you go there? The museum has a beautiful collection of sculptures, paintings and drawings. It also features Antoine Bourdelle’s studio where he created most of his masterpieces.
What’s a must-have? The most famous shot of the museum is definitely the one inside the studio of Antoine Bourdelle. The light in this room is beautiful.
When’s the best time to go? This museum is never really busy as it’s one of the hidden gems of Paris.
18 RUE ANTOINE BOURDELLE, 75015 PARIS
MUSÉE GUSTAVE MOREAU
Why should you go there? To see the studio, museum and apartment of Symbolist painter, Gustave Moreau.
What’s a must-have? Seeing the stunning staircase that’s a masterpiece in itself. Have a look at the rooms of the apartment where Gustave Moreau used to live, located on the first floor.
When’s the best time to go? Arrive at opening time to get an empty shot of the famous staircase.
14 RUE DE LA ROCHEFOUCAULD, 75009 PARIS
PONT ALEXANDRE III
Why should you go there? The most beautiful bridge that connects the left and right banks of Paris. It was built for the Exposition Universelle of 1900 and is still is one of the most iconic monuments in the city.
What’s a must-have? There are many beautiful angles to take photos of this famous bridge, so take your time, walk along and go to the lower levels to see Pont Alexandre III from all perspectives.
When’s the best time to go? At sunset, and wait to see the Eiffel Tower lights come on.
PONT ALEXANDRE III, 75008 PARIS
LAVIROTTE BUILDING
Why should you go there? Prettiest door in the city and one of the few remaining Art Nouveau buildings in Paris. Can you imagine living in this beautiful house with views of the Eiffel Tower?
What’s a must-have? The most famous shot is of the door, but the building itself is very beautiful. Check out the balconies and the façade which is decorated with sculptures and ceramics. Take your time to discover the different elements on the building, from animals to flowers and allegories.
When’s the best time to go? The street is never really crowded, so you can come at anytime of day.
29 AVENUE RAPP, 75007 PARIS
BNF, SITE RICHELIEU
Why should you go there? With its stunning reading room that’s recently been renovated, the Richelieu Library is one of two sites of the National French Library. Visitors are only allowed in the doorway to catch a glimpse of the stunning space and take photos.
What’s a must-have? You can only see one room of the library, but it’s definitely worth it. You’ll be amazed by the beautiful ceiling and the paintings on the walls.
When’s the best time to go? If you don’t want people in your photo, go when the library opens, but busy students add to the whole atmosphere of the room.
58 RUE DE RICHELIEU, 75002 PARIS
MUSÉE JACQUEMART-ANDRÉ
Why should you go there? One of the most beautiful private museums in Paris with stunning interiors and a great collection of art. Because it’s not very busy, you can enjoy the art to yourself.
What’s a must-have? A visit to the famous staircase in the foyer, and all the hidden rooms and corners.
When’s the best time to go? Early in the morning when the museum is at its quietest.
158 BOULEVARD HAUSSMANN, 75008 PARIS
TERRACE AT GALERIES LAFAYETTE
Why should you go there? The best rooftop to experience 360° views of Paris. You can see the Opera Garnier and its incredible architecture from the top, and the Eiffel Tower in the background.
What’s a must-have? A stop at the café, where you can have lunch with a view.
When’s the best time to go? At sunset.
40 BOULEVARD HAUSSMANN, 75009 PARIS
AU VIEUX PARIS D’ARCOLE
Why should you go there? Another photogenic Parisian façade, located just minutes away from Notre Dame de Paris. It’s also a restaurant where you can have lunch or dinner.
What’s a must-have? The façade’s appearance changes from season to season, featuring snow in winter, and blooming wisteria in the spring.
When’s the best time to go? Early morning for the best light.
24 RUE CHANOINESSE, 75004 PARIS
RUE CRÉMIEUX
Why should you go there? It’s not easy to find colourful buildings in Paris, but if you make it to Rue Crémieux you’ll find houses of any pastel colour you can imagine.
What’s a must-have? The best street photo by shooting either straight on, or at an angle to get all the beautiful colourful houses in a row.
When’s the best time to go? It’s quiet and empty most of the time.
RUE CRÉMIEUX, 75012 PARIS
GALERIE VIVIENNE
Why should you go there? Paris has many gorgeous covered arcades and Galerie Vivienne is one of the most iconic ones. It’s registered as a historical monument of Paris, with cafés and many cute boutiques.
What’s a must-have? Seeing the beautiful mosaic floor of the gallery.
When’s the best time to go? The place is at its best in the afternoon when it’s busy with locals.
5 RUE DE LA BANQUE, 75002 PARIS
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