Once just a village that settled on the "Ile de la Cité" (City Island) on the confluence of the Seine's two branches, Paris has vastly expanded over the centuries, taking the surrounding villages under its wing and making them its own. Nowadays the City of Light—a name Paris earned during the age of the Enlightenment—is made up of several arrondissements or districts, numbered from one to 20 and logically ordered with the 1st in the center and the others following in a clockwise spiral. The differences are vast and varied between the districts, both in terms of the populations and attractions, which together make up the multifaceted city we know and love.
1st Arrondissement
With its impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, the
2nd Arrondissement
With its little back streets harboring galleries, cafes and boutiques, this district sets a typically Parisian scene. West of Rue Richelieu stands the theater district where a dozen or so playhouses throng. The
3rd Arrondissement
The Marais district prides itself on being one of the oldest and best preserved in Paris. In keeping with this yearning for yesteryear, a museum charting the history of the capital (
4th Arrondissement
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque districts. Wander across the bridge opposite the
5th Arrondissement
This and the adjoining 6th arrondissement comprise the
6th Arrondissement
Rue de Seine, de Buci, Mazarine and Dauphine, along with the whole area between Boulevard St-Germain and the river
7th Arrondissement
More commonly known as the quartier des ministres (ministers' quarter), the 7th district also boasts some of Paris' most beautiful monuments—the
8th Arrondissement
Naturally, any visit to the 8th arrondissement has to start on the most beautiful avenue in the world—the fabulous
9th Arrondissement
Its impressive elegance makes the
10th Arrondissement
Running the entire length of the
11th Arrondissement
Formerly the haunt of furniture craftsmen, the Bastille district now plays host to an entirely different scene: that of Paris' young and trendy in-crowd. Rue du Faubourg-St-Antoine has seen many restaurants and nightspots spring up and flourish. Neighboring Rue de Lappe is probably the place to be seen on an evening, while others prefer the buzz of Rue Oberkampf a little further north.
12th Arrondissement
Paris' pleasure beach can be found here, between the Seine and the
13th Arrondissement
The easterly part of this district is known as "Chinatown," inhabited by numerous Chinese and Asian restaurants, shops and supermarkets. The
14th Arrondissement
Rue d'Alésia stands out for its array of clothing shops, while
15th Arrondissement
Set along the banks of the Seine, the delightful
16th Arrondissement
There's no denying that this is the most fashionable district of Paris. The Trocadéro offers a remarkable view of the city, as well as the Naval Museum (
18th Arrondissement
The
19th Arrondissement
The
20th Arrondissement
The most well-known cemetery in Paris, the
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With its incomparable historic sites and the rich art collections, Paris is often thought of as the largest museum in the world. But Paris' culture is not just about the past; the City of Light also celebrates cinema and music, and the nightlife is as exciting as that of London or New York.
Museums
Paris has more than 60 museums, so chances are you will find one to accommodate your tastes and interests. They are usually open from 10a to 6p and most of them have a weekly late day, staying open until 9p (generally on Wednesdays or Thursdays). Public museums are usually closed on Tuesdays and private museums often close on Mondays. Let's begin with the king of them all, the Louvre with its magnificent glass pyramid. It houses without a doubt one of the most remarkable collections of paintings and sculptures in the world, including two legendary works: the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. Another major and highly popular museum–with 2.5 million visitors each year, the Musée d'Orsay is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Impressionism masterpieces. The Centre Georges Pompidou, also known as Beaubourg, has always divided Parisian opinion: its avant-garde architecture has been compared to a multicolored steamboat launched in the belly of Paris. If you are with kids or interested in science, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie in La Villette is not to be missed.
Learn about human evolution at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle and take a stroll afterward in the beautiful Jardin des Plantes. Besides these essential landmarks, there are a number of small, themed museums that are worth a look, including the Musée Picasso in the charming Marais district. Less academic but still representative of an important part of Parisian culture, the Musée de la Mode et du Textile pays tribute to the Capital's biggest fashion houses. Finally, for those interested in anthropology and culture, the Musée du Quai Branly, with its prodigious collection of objects (300,000) coming from Australasia, Africa, and the Middle-East, will enable you to see from the perspective of a non-Western culture. The Institut du Monde Arabe is also of great interest to learn more about Middle-Eastern cultures. Many lectures and seminars are organized–at its cafe notably-to introduce neophytes to its amazing collection.
Galleries
Admission to galleries is free. Opening hours vary from one neighborhood to another, some open at night until 11p. Many of the city's most prestigious galleries are located in Saint Germain des Prés, either in Rue de Seine or Rue des Beaux-Arts like Galerie Claude Bernard. Most of them promote various styles of contemporary art, from Cubism to Abstractionism. Check out Galerie Maeght to dig into some of Miro's work and Galerie Arcturus for Selinger statues. Famous antiques galleries are gathered around Haussman Boulevard and Matignon Avenue, down the road from famous auction house Christie's. More avant-garde galleries can be found around Beauboug and others have turned Bastille into an arty and trendy neighborhood, notably around Rue Keller and Rue de Charonne.
Classical Music
Those set on classical music will be thrilled by the opulent Opéra Garnier, home to Paris' ballet company, also known as les petits rats de l'opéra. The performances include the greatest operas and ballets, like Berlioz's Romeo & Juliet or Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake. Its ultra-modern counterpart, the Opéra Bastille concentrates more on music than dance performances and hosts great operas as well as symphonic concerts. Two other concert halls will enchant classical music connoisseurs, like Salle Pleyel which is home to Paris Symphonic Orchestra and Salle Gaveau, dedicated to chamber music.
Theaters
Paris is home to more than 140 theaters featuring various types of shows, from classic plays to avant-garde live performances, dance, comedies, musicals, etc. Unfortunately, almost all of them are in French, which can hinder your enjoyment if you don't speak the language. Nonetheless, certain theaters are worth a visit. The eminent Comédie-Française for example features classic comedies written by Molière that are accessible to a large audience. The Odéon Théâtre de l'Europe is a great alternative, as it hosts classic plays in their original languages. Théâtre de la Ville, once home to famous French actress Sarah Bernhardt, is an open door to performers of the world. From famous international dance companies like Merce Cunningham or Ann Theresa de Keersmeaker, many world renowned artists have come here. The program also includes a great selection of world music concerts, with artists coming from Asia–notably India–and the Middle or Far-East. Finally, the Théâtre du Châtelet, with its tradition of education and innovation, plays host to young talents and dance companies coming from all over Europe, and organizes many festivals drawing visitors from far and wide.
Cinemas
The famous film director, François Truffaut, said that every French citizen is a cinema critic. No surprise then that Paris is a film-lover's paradise, with many cinemas in every district. The big complexes like the UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles or UGC Ciné Cité Bercy show more than fifteen films at once, mostly in their original languages. The MK2 chain, which not only screens blockbusters, but also independent French movies, has a faithful clientele. MK2 Parnasse and MK2 Beaubourg have a more avant-garde selection than the other theaters of the chain. In the Latin Quarter, normally frequented by students, art and experimental cinemas carry on the French cinematic tradition of showing old films. The Studio Galande often puts on high quality film series and retrospectives.
Live Music
For the jazz lover, Paris recreates the atmosphere of New York with its many clubs in the St-Michel and St-Germain-des-Prés districts; check out great sounds at the Caveau de la Huchette. The legendary Olympia Hall still welcomes the great names of French pop, but it's faded slightly since the days when Jacques Brel and Edith Piaf pulled in the crowds. World-renowned bands and singers are more likely to fill up the Zénith or Bercy. Palais des Congrès plays host to musicals and multi-million dollars productions.
Sporting Events
Many international tournaments take place in Paris. For such major events, usually the Stade de France is the best stadium, as it can accommodate up to 80,000 people. Home games of Paris' soccer team (PSG) are hosted at Parc des Princes, not far from another major sport venue, Roland Garros Stadium, where the French Tennis Open takes place in June.
Bars
Parisian nightlife no longer lags behind London or Berlin. Paris counts numerous bars and clubs, all open later than those of London or Berlin. Bars close either at 2a (the vast majority of them) or 4a, whereas clubs close at 6a. Some are opened extra late until noon on the weekend. Aperitif starts at 7p-8p; dinner, at 9:30p-10p; bars fill up around Midnight until 2a; then, people head to the clubs at around 1:30-2a. The most vibrant neighborhoods include Bastille, Rue de Lappe, Rue de Charonne, and Rue de la Roquette, where you will find countless bars. Some of them are fancy wine bars, others are smaller local cafés, but all of them have that sort of uniqueness that is distinctly Parisian. Another popular district is found between République and Oberkampf, by far the most popular spot.
Rue d'Oberkampf with Café Charbon is full of energy, brought by both locals and tourists. Alongside the Saint-Martin Canal, Chez Prune is practically a Parisian institution. The 5th arrondissement is also very lively: in the Latin Quarter itself between Métro Saint-Michel and Métro Cluny-La Sorbonne, girls head to the Latin Corner; students flock to pubs behind the Panthéon, between Place Descartes and Rue Mouffetard. The Hurling Pub, with its infused vodkas and wooden counter is a great hang-out, as well as the Bombardier, an authentic Irish pub. More upscale bars can be found in Saint Germain des Prés or alongside the Champs-Élysées.
Clubs
Paris has a flourishing club culture, with numerous places hopping and DJs in action all through the night. The hippest DJs play in Paris, like Bob Sinclar, Jeff Cortez and Dan Marciano at Queen on the Champs-Élysées. On Monday, disco nights at Queen are very popular, where House music fans bestow their patronage on the weekends. Another legendary club, the Bains Douches also hosts famous DJs like Tommy Marcus, Jef K and Jérôme Pacman to enchant the gay and gay-friendly clubbers. A less glamorous but more hip techno temple is the underground Rex Club, where Laurent Garnier, Carl Cox and Daft Punk often perform. After hours the trendy crowd interested in experimental techno and French electronic music heads to the Batofar, a red boat moored on the Seine. Another option is the Glaz'Art, an arty spot, where all kinds of arts and music are intertwined for live performances and crazy nights.
For Salsa and Hip Hop, head to Barrio Latino in the Bastille district or to the Favela Chic near République metro. In the Pigalle neighborhood, you can hear great world music coming from Brazil, Mexico or the Middle-East at the Divan du Monde, or dance the night away to the sound of Rock music in the Elysée Montmartre. Finally, if you're looking for the most upscale select clubs, stay in the 8th arrondissement. The Milliardaire and Régine's are certainly the best bet to meet the classy crowd.
Cabarets
Visitors to the capital can take advantage of the cabaret culture and traditional French Cancan shows at the Moulin Rouge or enjoy some high-class cabaret at the world-renowned Crazy Horse.
Parks, Zoos & Theme Parks
For those wanting to explore the many parks of the city, there are many options on each corner. A stroll in the Tuileries Garden is welcome after visiting the Louvre and the fresh air will regenerate your brain cells. In the Latin Quarter, take a break at the Luxembourg Garden where locals jog or play tennis throughout the day. If you are with kids, go to the Jardin des Plantes, where you can take your children to the zoo and to a Tropical Botanical Garden. The largest park in Paris, parc des Buttes-Chaumont–seen by some as a replica of Central Park-is great for families as it contains numerous children's playgrounds. The young crowd living in the neighborhood often organizes giant picnics and parties in the park. A beautiful view over the city can be caught on the top of the park's tower. A brief taste of Paris' entertainment scene would not be complete without mention of the epitome of family fun, Disneyland Paris. This remains the main attraction on Paris' doorstep, and visitors flock here from all over Europe. Family fun is also guaranteed at Parc Astérix and the wildlife park, Thoiry.
Cities with so many intact historical sites are rare. Monuments, museums, squares and gardens, in all their beauty, remind us of the extent to which Paris is and always has been in demand. It has been a theater in which major events have been staged, an intellectual, political and economic reference point since its foundation, and the residence of kings for several centuries. A city of the people and the middle classes, rich and poor, proud and sometimes treacherous, cosmopolitan yet insular. This cultural and sociological mix gives Paris an irresistible charm.
France's political, economic and cultural capital had modest and strictly rural beginnings; it started as no more than a little Celtic fishing borough, established in Third Century BCE in the middle of the Seine on the Île de la Cité. The fortified and prosperous Lutèce appealed to Caesar and his Roman army's greed, and they appropriated it in 52 BCE as one of the first Gallo-Roman cities. The first mention of the name Paris appeared in 207 CE, when the civitas parisiorum (literally meaning city of the Parisians) stretched from the left bank of the Seine to the thermal springs of Cluny. Paris quickly attracted the favor of two saints who were to contribute to its construction. Saint Denis was the first Christian bishop to be beheaded by the Romans in 280 CE; his remains now lie in the Saint-Denis Basilica. Saint Geneviève became the patron saint of Parisians after miraculously repelling the invasion of the Huns in 451. Monasteries and abbeys flourished, including the powerful abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Près, erected in 558 under the aegis of King Childebert I. Many kings of the Merovingian dynasty were buried here. The Abbey in itself doesn't exist anymore but you can visit the remaining adjacent church, the Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés. While Charlemagne preferred Aix-la-Chapelle and suffered a long siege there at the hands of the Vikings in 885, Paris continued to repel the invasions of the barbarians with varied success until 987, when it regained its pride with the accession of Hugues Capet to the throne.
As capital of the tiny French kingdom, the city grew considerably between the 11th and 13th Centuries. The development of the city owed much to Philip II, known as Philippe-Auguste (1165-1223), son of Louis VII, who paved the streets and built the new market in the Halles, the circular ramparts, and the Louvre fortress (1204). These extravagant centuries saw the completion of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame (undertaken in 1163), and the Sainte Chapelle under Saint-Louis (in 1248). The medieval town was divided, with the commercial, political and religious areas on the right bank and the bastion of dissident intellectuals on the left. The most famous of these was Robert de Sorbon, whose college was the precursor of the famous university of the Sorbonne. With a population of 200,000, Paris had become the biggest city in western Christendom in the beginning of the 14th Century. But some black years were to follow with the famine of 1315, the plague of 1348 and the Hundred Years' War, when Paris was besieged by the English until 1436. Fortunately prosperity was to return in the 16th Century with François I to whom we owe the Hôtel de Ville, the college of France, the Hôtel des Tuileries and the Pont Neuf. He also transformed the old Louvre fortress into a Renaissance palace.
Paris sank into chaos once again with the religious wars and the terrible St-Barthélémy massacre of the Protestants during the nights of August 23rd and 24th, 1572. The fiercely Protestant regent, Henri III, had to flee the city and was succeeded by Henri IV in 1594 after he gave up the throne. A convert to Catholicism, he courted the hearts of Parisians by building the Place des Vosges, the Place Dauphine, and the Quais de l'Arsenal and Orfèvres.
Even more beautiful extensions to the city came under Louis XIII with the building of the Marais district (which retains its original character), and the Saint-Honoré and Saint_Germain suburbs. This was followed immediately by the construction of the Luxembourg Palace by Marie of Médicis, the Val de Grâce by Queen Ann of Austria, and the Palace of the Cardinal (now the Palais-Royal) by Richelieu. The establishment of the Royal Printing House, in 1620, the botanical garden located now in Jardin des Plantes and the French Academy consolidated the intellectual character of the capital.
Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, installed his sumptuous court at Versailles, leaving Paris to deal with the Fronde from 1648 through 1652. This group protested against an absolute monarchy, but by isolating the king and his minions, it was only strengthened. Colbert, in charge of buildings, had superb monuments built by Mansart and Perrauls in honor of his sovereign: the colonnade in the Louvre, the Invalides, the Observatory, the gates of St-Denis and Saint-Martin, the Salpêtrière hospital, and the Jardin des Tuileries. The opulent architecture offered a stark contrast to the over-populated and poverty-stricken Paris of the ordinary people.
The proliferation of cafes and literary salons, including the famous Procope, fostered new egalitarian and libertarian ideas that preceded the French Revolution, and contributed to the cultural reputation of Paris. At this time were constructed the École Militaire, the Panthéon, the Place de la Concorde and the Palais-Royal Gardens, where the initial 1789 uprising was plotted; it was here that the famous Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen were originally formulated, and numerous remaining royalists were executed. With the regent beheaded, Napoleon put Paris in the control of two prefects charged with establishing a government. He set about creating the capital of Europe, establishing the Arc de Triomphe, the Stock Exchange in Palais Brongniart, the Place Vendôme, the Vendôme Column and the Saint-Martin Canal.
During the 19th Century, the poverty of the people fueled the anti-royalist revolutions of 1830 and 1848. Napoleon III's Second Empire symbolized the start of a new era: above all a period of industrialization, efficiency and public health. Official architect, Georges Haussman, changed the face of the city, transforming its medieval character into the one we know today. Dirty lanes gave way to broad, tree-lined avenues and majestic buildings that were accessible by new means of transport. Parks and gardens were established, such as the Bois de Boulogne and the Bois de Vincennes. Success came with the Universal exhibition of 1889, whose specially built iron structure was designed as a temporary monument and is now the archetypal symbol of the City of Light; without the Eiffel Tower, Paris just wouldn't be Paris. The Sacré-Coeur Basilica was completed in 1910, as was the Palais de Chaillot.
Spared by the Great War, intellectual and artistic Paris attracted numerous important painters and writers, especially in the Montmartre district. World War II was a different story however, when the German army occupied the capital in June 1940; the city was eventually liberated in August 1944 by General Leclerc and General de Gaulle. The latter declared the Fifth Republic, which was to be challenged by a great social, economic and cultural upheaval in May 1968. This dissident movement arose in student circles and was led by Daniel Cohn-Bendit. The occupation of the Sorbonne and Nanterre universities degenerated into riots and barricades in the Latin Quarter. It was an unprecedented crisis whose shock tactics paralyzed the country with a general strike.
Just as all the monarchs had left their mark on Paris, naturally the presidents of the Fifth Republic wished to be remembered through their great monuments. De Gaulle bequeathed the Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport; the Centre Georges Pompidou is a controversial memorial to the president of the same name; Giscard D'Estaing established the Musée d'Orsay and transformed the old abattoirs of la Villette into the Cité des Sciences. François Mitterand, during his 14 years as president (1981-95) carefully planned his monumental works to evoke controversy and excitement. Among these are the Arche de la Défense, the glass pyramid of the Louvre, the Opéra Bastille and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. When it comes to Paris, everyone has an opinion.
If there's one word that symbolizes Paris, it is gastronomy. The French, always appreciative of the finer things in life, have a unique tradition of famous restaurants and great chefs. If you really love good food, you'll find true happiness here. The latest, most fashionable restaurants mix innovation with traditional culinary techniques to serve classic French cuisine that's full of unexpected flavors. The cafe-restaurants, which are the pride of Paris, fit into the gastronomic landscape better than ever, with their beautifully presented and affordable food. Paris, always so cosmopolitan, has also been enriched by exotic cuisines from the four corners of the earth.
1st Arrondissement
In Paris, fine dining and great feasts (lasting up to three hours) are sacred, and the chefs in the most famous restaurants have turned their cuisine into a real art form. Paris features some of the most highly-praised restaurants and world-acclaimed chefs by International food critics, including the first arrondissement's Grand Véfour. Some other fine dining options can also be found in prestigious hotels, like Restaurant Le Meurice in the Meurice hotel. Combining touches of originality in both the food and design, the establishments of the Costes brothers are not to be missed. Café Costes was the first to set the trend a couple of years ago. Highly popular during cocktail hours, notably among the business crowd, Fumoir is a comfortable lounge with leather coaches and an upscale restaurant, serving elaborate, traditional French food. The Pharamond, offers an extraordinary setting and a meal to match: its decor dates from 1832, proof, if any were needed, that Paris' tradition of exceptional gastronomy is still going strong.
2nd Arrondissement
If you're looking for pastries, the oldest pâtisserie in Paris is Pâtisserie Stohrer, carrying deserts and sweets fit for a queen. A bustling area for Sunday brunch is on Rue Montorgueil, notably Au Rocher de Cancale, which is completely packed after noon.
4th Arrondissement
After a stroll in the narrow streets of Île-Saint-Louis, head to the oldest ice-cream artisan in the city, Berthillon. With more than 60 different flavors, their all-natural ice creams will enchant the whole family. The most exquisite include Caramel Beurre Salé (caramel and salted butter), Raspberry-Rosa and Pêche de Vigne (a kind of rare peach). At one point in time it was very hard to find a Parisian restaurant that served brunch. That time is behind us now, and brunch has become so popular that, at some places, you will have to wait a quite a while for a table. Le Loir dans la Théière is definitely worth the wait. All pies, tarts, and pastries are hand-made and fresh, and prices are more than reasonable. For tea, Mariage Frères has the best reputation. As for nightlife, one of the hottest spots in Paris is Georges at the top of the Beaubourg Museum.
5th & 6th Arrondissement
Tour d'Argent is one of Paris' culinary institutions, serving up dishes of worldwide renown.
Le Procope is decked out in the finest fashions of Paris' Années Folles, and Ernest Hemingway finished "Le soleil se lève aussi" at the world renowned Closerie des Lilas. Parisians think of Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore as historic monuments just like the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame Cathedral. Visitors should make a point of visiting these historical establishments to truly soak up the atmosphere of the capital's glorious past; it's easy to imagine past celebrities and intellectuals dining in the luxurious period decor. L'Espadon Bleu offers fresh seafood at reasonable prices. If you're looking for authentic country bread, Poilâne bakery is the best bet. You will find the famous Tartines made with this bread (toasted with cheese, vegetables, or prosciutto) at numerous cafes in the city. What is a good meal without an espresso in the end? Something is definitely missing–notably the chocolate served with it. The French are chocolate connoisseurs and you can find some chocolate artisans throughout the city, like the Maison du Chocolat that imports chocolate from Switzerland and Belgium.
8th Arrondissement
The 8th arrondissement is home to some of the finest Restaurants in France, with Pierre Gagnaire voted the third best restaurant in the world by the British magazine Restaurant, and the oft-celebrated Restaurant Alain Ducasse situated in Plaza Athénée hotel. Maxim's is a veritable institution devoted to classic French cuisine, and another excellent yet expensive spot is Taillevent, which has wines that cost as much as a dress from Chanel. Paris has numerous fashionable spots where you go to see and be seen. Either for a glass of wine after shopping or for a futuristic dining experience, try Spoon - Food and Wine, where you can enjoy fusion food and fashion at the same time. Most of these restaurants have chic and trendy interiors, designed by popular architects like Philippe Stark at Spoon. For fashionistas and celeb-watching addicts, the Avenue, located on the prestigious avenue Montaigne where many famous designers have boutiques, is an ideal spot. For flavored and rare types of mustard and vinegar, the first established Boutique Maille is the best bet, and Hédiard and Fauchon stock some of the world's finest specialty foods. For desert, don't miss Maison de la Truffe for first rate truffles, and Haagen-Dazs for it's world-renowned flavors. For the best macaroons (a kind of soft cookie filled with cream) in town, head to Ladurée, a house that has been established since 1862.
9th Arrondissement
A new trend arose in Paris as an alternative to cafes and bistros serving a rich food: healthy soup and juice bars. With an increasing number of vegetarians previously not having many dining options, they rapidly became a success. The soup and juice bar Soup & Juice perfectly illustrates the phenomenon. People don't always have time to sit at lunch for hours anymore, and they may want a healthy alternative to the sandwich booths and bakeries. With a dozen of locations across the city, you can grab a healthy meal at very reasonable prices.
10th Arrondissement
Brasseries began in the Alsace region, where the beer was actually brewed, so the tradition is that most brasseries (which literally means brewery), not only serve sauerkraut (an Alsatian specialty) but also seafood and shellfish such as scallops, oysters, mussels, clams, etc. The Brasserie Flo, located in a remote and quiet court in the 10th arrondissement, is a bargain for seafood lovers. The ingredients are extremely fresh and the decor reminds some patrons of Grandma's kitchen. Bistros are certainly the best value for price if you cannot afford the star-rated restaurants but still want to enjoy the best of French food. You can find many bistros and brasseries in the capital, serving the traditional Entrecôte (rib-eye steak) or Bavette à l'échalotte (flank steak dressed in a shallot reduction) with French Fries, the cheese or charcuterie plate (cooked meats), and chocolate mousse or caramel creme. Julien, with its Belle Époque décor, is a great place to sample the cuisine of a traditional brasserie à la française. If you're looking for seafood, La Marine offers a lovely dining experience alongside Saint-Martin Canal. For dessert, try Furet Tanrade, which offers exquisite chocolates in a cozy atmosphere.
11th Arrondissement
When Bastille became a hip district for nightlife, the spotlight fell on the hotel-restaurant, Sanz sans, which consistently draws a lively crowd of revelers. For traditional meals from the Auvergne region, head to La galoche d'Aurillac. Try one of the specialties like the Lentilles from Le Puy or the charcuterie plate—notably the Fricandeau (a kind of pâté typical from that region). The cheese plate is a must-have here, since they mature the cheeses in their cellar. Another classic brasserie is Petit Bofinger in Bastille, more affordable than the original Bofinger. Chez Paul is one of the best bistros in Paris, but make sure to arrive early or be prepared to wait up to one hour for a table. The Bar à Soupes in Bastille is a charming place for healthy cuisine, and for oysters and shellfish, a great option is the Bar à Huîtres, an oyster bar in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
12th Arrondissement
Cheese is to France what tea is to England; it is part of the national identity. There are more than 300 varieties of cheeses coming from various regions of the country. Neighborhood farmer's markets are the best places to sample and buy all the kinds of cheese you can imagine and probably some you didn't know existed. Choose from fresh, creamy, or dry goat cheese, soft and milky Camembert, creamy Brie de Meaux, strong Munster or Époisses, and full-flavored Roquefort. The Aligre Market is without a doubt the largest and the most comprehensive market in the city.
13th Arrondissement
Whether for sampling on site or souvenir shopping, wine is of course a must-have in France. You will find many wine shops in Paris, with an excellent selection of bottles coming from small French wineries or prestigious houses. The most widespread name in the city is Nicolas. The wine merchant has brown flagships all over the city and carries affordable ordinary wines and more elaborate vintages. All the sales associates are very professional and can give you good advice on wine and meal pairings. The wine bar, Bar à Vins Nicolas located alongside fashionable Cour Saint-Émilion in Bercy-Village is a great spot to sample the selection they carry.
14th Arrondissement
Visitors should make a point of visiting several historical establishments to truly soak up the atmosphere of the capital's glorious past; it's easy to imagine past celebrities and intellectuals dining in the luxurious period decor. La Coupole offers all the splendor of Paris' Années Folles, and if you look out at the terrace of the Dôme, you may even see the ghost of Jean Paul Sartre. After all, Paris is magical.
16th Arrondissement
The Café de L'Homme offers an intimate dining experience behind its red curtains and warm wooden decor. Paris has countless fine specialty food stores, each only dedicated to one sort of delicacy. For caviar, go to Prunier.
17th & 18th Arrondissement
The Paradis du Fruit (literally "fruit's paradise") will enchant those in search of a perfect smoothie. Wepler is a well-established brasserie on place de Clichy.
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