The Marais district is the historic heart of Paris. It takes its name from the old marshes that stood there before religious communities worked this land and transformed it into market gardeners. Today with its charming alleys, its vestiges of the past, its many chic boutiques and its private mansions transformed into museums, it is one of the most dynamic districts of Paris. Discover it thanks to our suggested walk.
A cafe on the Place des Vosges
The perfect place for a typical breakfast? carette of cours. This Parisian institution will delight you with a hot chocolate gourmet and high-end pastries. And if you are really greedy, do not hesitate to taste their pastries or their macaroons, which are among the best in Paris. What to fill up with vitamins before starting a walk under the arcades of this old royal square.
A cultural stroll
Art lovers will find their happiness around the Place des Vosges. This historic district has always given pride of place to contemporary art. So don't miss the Michael Marciano Gallery,'Art Symbol Gallery or the Ariel Jakob Gallery for great discoveries. A little further on, two rich museums open their doors to you: the Carnavalet Museum, specializing in the history of Paris and the Picasso Museum which reveals the treasures of the Spanish painter.
And if you have time:
- The Victor-Hugo museum stands in its apparently former Place des Vosges and reveals many secrets about the life of the writer.
- The Holocaust museum will allow you to learn more about this part of the story.
A gourmet lunch break
Is there a more gourmet tradition than tasting a falafel sandwich on the go to Falafel Ace ? It is in the rue des Rosiers that this mythical address is located. Don't be put off by the length of the queue, the service is quick and the wait less. Once served, you will understand why tourists and Parisians all find themselves here… In addition, this address is suitable for both vegetarians and those who eat kosher.
If you want to settle down, you can wait for a table or go discover the best addresses in the neighborhood. Jaja (Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie) offers slightly revisited traditional French cuisine. We feast on fresh and seasonal products with real discoveries of flavors. An address to test!
Finally, carnivores will find their happiness at My Burgundy (place des Vosges) for a tartare they won't soon forget.
A shopping spree
Once your stomach is full, it's time to shop! And the Marais is perfect for that. Enter here King of Sicily Street, Mahler Street, Old Temple Street, there is enough to find our happiness. The rue des Francs Bourgeois also concentrates all the pretty brands that we love: Penhaligons, Make Up For Ever, Muji, Maje… Fashion, beauty or lifestyle, there is something for everyone.
Our favorite shops:
Annick Goutal, 3 bis rue des Rosiers
Repetto, 51 Rue des Francs Bourgeois
Diptyque, 8 rue des Francs Bourgeois
A romantic dinner
If you want to end your day with stars in your eyes, it's at Bel Canto that you have to surrender. This restaurant, perfectly located on the quays, offers lyrical dinners during which opera singers make you discover the essentials of the genre while you taste the great classics of French cuisine perfectly made.
And if you want:
- A restaurant plugged : Tavline. An Israeli restaurant that never ceases to be talked about (Rue du Roi de Sicily)
- A brewery Fashion : Pearl where the specialties of the brasserie are served to the upper crust of Paris (rue Vieille du Temple)
A dreamy night
Our favorite addresses for a night in the Marais:
- The 9Confidential, 58 King of Sicily Street, 75004
- The Dupond Smith, 2 Rue des Guillemites, 75004
- The King of Sicily, 41 King of Sicily Street, 75004
To read also:
Parisian stroll: a day at Place des Victoires
