City Guide: 48hrs in Paris | The Spring Edition
The spring-summer season has officially begun, and there’s no better way to mark the shift than with a trip to Paris. From lazy terrace lunches to long walks that lead to hidden boutiques, here’s my ultimate spring guide to Paris—filled with places to eat, wander, and get lost in the streets that were never meant to be found.
Where to Dine
La Petite Chaise- Historic, charming, and quietly tucked in Saint-Germain. It’s perfect for lunch or date night — cozy, unfussy, and full of charm.
📍36 Rue de Grenelle, 75007
Bar des Prés- My go-to for a chic, indulgent night. I’d go for the original location in the 6th, it’s the kind of place where a night begins, and you forget to end it. Just across the street you'll find Le Bar, perfect if you’ve made other dinner plans but want a late-night cocktail.
Order: Yellowtail sashimi, black cod, crunchy crab galette.
📍25 Rue du Dragon, 75006
La Stresa- This old-school Italian gem, just seconds from Avenue Montaigne, has been a favorite of mine for years. Think red velvet interiors, black-and-white portraits lining the walls, and veteran Italian waiters who know exactly what they’re doing. Pro tip: Reservations can be tricky — call a few days ahead.
📍7 Rue Chambiges, 75008
Cravan- A literary speakeasy housed in a five-story townhouse right across Café du Flore.
Pro tip: Arrive a little early and don’t miss the second-floor bookstore.
📍165 Blvd Saint-Germain
Le Grand Café- A new addition to the Paris dining scene. Make sure to go before reservations are impossible to get. Rumour has it they serve limoncello spritzes (Yes you heard correctly- the kind of detail that turns lunch into a long afternoon)
📍3 Ave du Général Eisenhower, 75008
Alfred- A classic brasserie with a modern edge. Small plates to start, seabass or steak for mains, and definitely dessert. Make sure to start with the hibiscus cocktail if you’re in the mood for something floral and refreshing.
📍8 Rue du Commandant Rivière, 75008
Palais Royal Restaurant- Two Michelin stars, a hidden garden terrace, and the kind of food that makes you whisper “wow” mid-bite. Come for a slow, elegant lunch or a dinner that feels like a real occasion
📍110 Gal de Valois, 75001
Ojii- Tucked away in a hidden corner of Saint-Germain, Oji’s is the definition of a perfect evening.. and I guarantee you’ll try food you never did before. The atmosphere is vibrant but cozy.
📍6 Rue Perronet, 75007 Paris
La Palette- Iconic and local-feeling. Skip the food — come for an early evening rosé.
What to Do
Place de Furstemberg
One of my favorite little corners of Paris — quiet, romantic, and often missed. Stroll through the surrounding streets for dreamy interior shops and tucked-away gems.( Alix D. Reins and Simrane are dreamy)
Maison Fleuret
After a browse through Le Bon Marché, head to this coffee stop in Saint-Germain. A former bookstore, now a cozy café that still carries the hush of its past. Come early for the pastries (they go fast)
David Hockney at Fondation Louis Vuitton
The largest Hockney exhibit to date — eleven immersive rooms of color, and honestly, whether you’re a fan or new to his work, it’s a must.
🗓️ April 9 – Aug 31, 2025
Musée Rodin
Romantic gardens, timeless sculptures, and the best spot for a sunny afternoon stroll.
Other favorites: Musée d'Orsay, Place des Vosges, Musée de l’Orangerie, Bourse de Commerce, Jardin des Tuileries
Where to Shop
Le Bon Marché
Skip Galeries Lafayette- this is where the magic happens. Curated, calm, and full of seasonal gems. The summer pop-ups downstairs (with personalization stations!) are always a highlight, and upstairs is a treasure trove of under-the-radar labels. It’s everything you could want without the chaos.
Maison D’Orsay
Paris’s best-kept secret for perfume lovers. Each fragrance is inspired by a mysterious muse (they’ll never say who). There are only two boutiques in the world, and the flagship is here. My pick: E.Q by Dominique Ropion.
Olympia Le-Tan
Hidden near Palais Royal, this little gem makes the chicest hand-embroidered book clutches limited to 77 per design. Perfect for adding character to a simple outfit and a guaranteed conversation starter.
Maison Bonnet
This discreet atelier has been making frames for legends like Le Corbusier and Jackie O for four generations. Every pair is custom-made to fit your face perfectly so it’s definitely more of an experience than a purchase. The process takes time (up to five months), but worth it.
Pro tip: If you’re searching for a gift for your boyfriend, this just might be the ultimate love letter in acetate
Have a lovely time
xx Giorgina