Paris: the Romantic Winter City Break

Paris, the city that epitomizes chic living, never ceases to amaze. From its enchanting architecture to its effortlessly stylish vibe, it’s a place where beauty and sophistication are woven into every corner. My recent four-day trip to Paris was no exception, filled with unforgettable dining experiences, luxurious accommodations, and endless moments of wonder.

Where We Stayed

We chose to stay just off the Champs-Élysées at Hotel Lancaster, a small five-star boutique hotel. The charm of this hotel lies in its intimacy and impeccable service. Our room was beautifully appointed, with touches of understated Parisian elegance, and the location was perfect for exploring the city on foot each day. While the hotel scene in Paris is famously world-class (and often comes with a hefty price tag), Hotel Lancaster offered a luxurious yet intimate retreat that set the tone for our stay.

Located close by is one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, called Le Parc Monceau, definitely more of a locals’ park with many Parisians running, but the park itself is very pretty. Le Parc Monceau is a serene oasis in Paris’s 8th arrondissement, known for its lush greenery, winding paths, and whimsical features like a miniature pyramid and Corinthian colonnade. Originally designed in 1778 as an English-style garden, it was later enhanced by Baron Haussmann.

This elegant park, surrounded by Haussmannian mansions, is a favorite among locals for jogging, picnics, and leisurely strolls. Its tranquil, intimate atmosphere offers a perfect glimpse of everyday Parisian life, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Dining Highlights

Lunch at Gigi

If you’re looking for the perfect midday escape, Gigi Paris is a must. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, combined with live music and a vibrant atmosphere, made for a delightful lunch. Situated in a stunning location, this is the kind of spot where you could linger for hours, savoring every bite while soaking up the Parisian energy.

Dinner at Victoria

For a late-night, high-energy dining experience, Victoria Paris was a fantastic choice. Be sure to book the coveted 10 PM reservation to truly soak in the lively vibe. While the food was enjoyable, the real draw here is the ambiance. However, be prepared for service that might lag slightly behind the venue’s otherwise great spot.

Dinner at Baronne

A highlight of the trip was our dinner at Baronne, one of the newest additions to Paris’s dining scene. This venue left me speechless—it’s easily one of the most beautiful and romantic restaurants I’ve ever experienced. From the grand interior design to the impeccable food, everything about Baronne felt magical. If you’re planning a romantic evening in Paris, this should be at the top of your list.

Omakase at Enyaa

For something a bit more intimate and culinary-focused, we indulged in a bespoke omakase experience at Enyaa. While not traditionally Parisian, this small restaurant brought a unique perspective to the city’s dining scene with exquisite, meticulously crafted dishes.

Cocktails & Nightcaps

Rosewood

We sipped champagne at the Rosewood Hôtel de Crillon, a serene pre-dinner experience that felt quintessentially Parisian.

The Ritz Paris

The bar at The Ritz Paris remains one of my all-time favorites. After a day of exploring the city, there’s nothing better than retreating here for a perfectly crafted cocktail in one of the most iconic settings in the world.

Late Nights in Paris

One of the hottest late-night spots in Paris is at Le Bristol, a five-star hotel with a small but lively bar that transforms into a chic dance venue. Whether you’re in the mood to unwind with a cocktail or dance the night away, this is a great place to experience Paris’s late-night allure. I also loved the lobby of the hotel which I had to capture.

While we didn’t visit, we also heard that Silencio is a great club for nightlife enthusiasts.

How to Explore Paris

From my experience, Paris is best enjoyed on foot. Each morning, after breakfast, we set out to wander for hours, soaking in the city’s beauty and charm while making impromptu pit stops along the way. One standout was The French Bastards in Le Marais. I opted for a jambon baguette, while my husband tried the pistachio beignet, which he said was one of the best he’s ever had.

We visited all the classic landmarks—Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Palais Royal, and Jardin des Tuileries—but for me, simply walking through Parisian streets was the highlight.

One particularly memorable experience was touring the Palais Garnier Opera House. Its grandeur did not disappoint, and for our next visit, we’ve promised ourselves to see an opera performance there. If you plan to go, I recommend booking tickets in advance to skip the lines.

Festive Feels

Shopping in Paris is always a treat, but during this trip, I was particularly excited to see the city’s famous Christmas decorations. The stunning Christmas trees at Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché were breathtaking.

Additionally, Le Grand Épicerie is a gourmet food haven located within Le Bon Marché, and I highly recommend it for any foodie.

Walking through the illuminated streets of Paris during the holiday season, especially near the Christian Dior installation, is a magical experience I’d recommend to anyone visiting during this time of year.

Paris is always a good idea and never fails to offer a fresh perspective with every visit, whether you’re discovering new dining spots, marveling at iconic landmarks, or simply strolling through its chic streets. From luxurious hotels to unforgettable culinary adventures and festive holiday experiences, this city has a way of enchanting its visitors time and time again.

If you’re planning a trip, I hope these highlights help inspire your own Parisian escape. Bon voyage!

Love Keva xx

*All photos are my own