A weekend in Paris

I try to visit Paris twice a year, and each time I have a long list of places I want to see. I aim to create a balanced itinerary to include some art, fashion, shopping and always a lot of eating. Here’s my winter weekend round-up, a feast for the senses, in all respects.

To see

Book in advance to see the major exhibitions at the Grand Palais. We saw the stunning and comprehensive Braque retrospective. There is a fortnight left to see the dreamy La Renaissance et le Reve.

To snack

Odette is tucked around a corner near Notre Dame Cathedral. Serving cute cream puffs in a variety of flavours and colours, it is the perfect afternoon treat with a cup of tea.

L’arbre a cafe is known to be the top caffeine outlet in Paris. Rare and special coffee beans are used to make the very best espresso. Watch out though, opening times are slightly erratic.

To drink

Prescription is the sister bar to ECC (Experimental Cocktail Club) and the drinks are equally delectable and daring. Tell the barman your preferences and he will whip you up a suitable concoction, or choose from the creative list.

To shop

Merci is my favourite new shop in Paris. Not only is it design heaven with a selection of beautiful clothes, jewellery, homeware and perfume but this concept store gives all profits to charity.

To eat

Joel Robuchon’s two Michelin starred Atelier is the perfect place for Sunday lunch. Pick from the array of delicious dishes.

Blend makes top notch burgers, among the best I’ve ever tried… opt for the Melt burger with sloppy caramelised onions and Gruyere cheese and indulge with the crispy hand-cut fries.

To sleep

Hotel Pont Royal is a legendary literary hotel on the Left Bank, with accommodation that is immersed in tradition and charm. The perfect place for creative tourists wishing to explore the stylish area of Saint-Germain des Pres.

Take advantage of Eurostar’s sale here.

Thanks to the Paris Tourist Board, more information here.

parisinfo.com

Hotel Pont Royal, Paris

I have never slept in a Parisian hotel for more than one night – with so many characterful boutique and luxury hotels on offer in France’s romantic capital city I prefer to experience as many as possible, resting my head at a different location every night reaping the benefits of the different districts.

On my most recent trip to Paris I stayed for just a short weekend, arriving early on Saturday morning and departing late the following evening. My hotel of choice? The literary lair of the left bank, Hotel Pont Royal. This establishment is immersed in history being a firm favourite of authors Hemingway, Miller and Fitzgerald, as well as renowned artists Miro, Chagall and Buffet.

An integral part of this legendary neighbourhood, Hotel Pont Royal has a heavenly feel, black and white portraits grace the walls and the building’s original features remain intact, a clue to the glamorous bygone era of decadence and glory.

Our room was the perfect home for a night away from London. Classic and cosy, there was everything we needed plus some indulgent extras. A lovely big bath was ideal for soaking my worn feet at the end of the day, and some Jean-Paul Hevin chocolates were a divinely delicious special gift. Decorated simply in a deep red colour scheme with colourful artwork on the wall, the Pont Royal rooms are stylish without fussy detailing. Our bed was blissfully comfortable, I slept soundly through the night and in the morning I loved opening the curtains to discover our balcony and Parisian view.

Downstairs you can sample Joel Robuchon’s gastronomic wonders in the adjoining atelier restaurant. If you don’t manage to nab a table, guests will be pleased to hear that the hotel’s room service menu is also prepared in the Robuchon kitchen! The signature bar also serves this Michelin star awarded food, so you can dine in this relaxed environment with a neat cocktail in hand.

Breakfast is served in the Salon Mosaique which opens onto a picturesque Japanese garden. Gorge yourself on the fresh traditional French pastries and sip a strong coffee before embarking on a day of exploring. The ‘Gold Key’ certified concierge service can suggest some unexpected paths for you to follow so that you can investigate the current artistic and cultural scene. Dipping in and out of the quirky exhibitions and popping into the adorable bistros could occupy you all day, but if you’d rather venture further afield, all the advice you need can be found at the hotel, who are eager to help.

After a day exploring the glorious city, Hotel Pont Royal provides the perfect refuge, in the most enchanting area of Paris.

More information and book here: www.leshotelsduroy.com/fr/hotel-pont-royal

Thanks to the Paris Tourist Board, more information here.

parisinfo.com

PARIS IS CALLING: 2 FOR 1 Eurostar Cultural Offer

2 FOR 1: Eurostar Cultural Offer: Your Eurostar ticket does so much more than get you to your destination. It takes you on a cultural journey through the greatest museums and galleries of Paris, Brussels and Lille.

Explore the heart and soul of Paris by soaking up its museums and galleries. All with 2 for 1 entry, just by showing your Eurostar ticket.

Eurostar have partnered up with some of the finest galleries in Paris: Musée d’Orsay, Grand Palais; Galeries nationales, Musée du quai Branly, Jeu de Paume, Musée d’Art moderne de la Ville de Paris and Cité de la musique.

2 FOR 1 offer is subject to conditions and valid in your destination city, 5 days from the travel date stated on your outbound ticket.

Book your cultural trip to Paris with Eurostar now here.

www.eurostar.com/uk-en

Thanks to the Paris Tourist Board, more information here.

parisinfo.com