Paris is one of my favorite cities and I don’t think I could ever tire of discovering the hidden gems around every corner. I had the chance to visit a couple of years ago, but realized I never actually blogged about it. Quelle tristesse! So here it is, my Designer’s Guide to Paris.

My husband Raymond came with me on an extended work trip that in initially took us to the Amalfi Coast in Italy. We tacked on a couple of additional cities while we were in Europe — Rome and Paris. Those recaps are coming soon! Wherever I travel, I never leave home without my travel essentials.

We visted in October and the weather was crisp but beautiful. Very little rain and it was nice to wear Fall clothes and a cashmere scarf, which I bought from a Parisian kioske. We got around mostly on foot and with Uber, which was easy and affordable. Next time I’ll try the subway!

We stayed at the Westin Paris Vendôme in the 1st Arr. It was gorgeous, well appointed and literally across the street from the Jardin des Tuileries and a very short walk to the Louvre Museum. Highly recommend!

Our first stop was to eat at the iconic Café de Flore on Saint-Germain-des-Prés. We just had to try the french onion soup which was so so but the quiche was outstanding. Les Deux Magots is also nearby which we’ll try next time we’re in town.

Shopping is unmatched in Paris and I had my sights set on a few must-see places to fulfill my entertaining, planning, designing heart. Marin Montagut was a gorgeous, eclectic shop with interesting decorative pieces, stationery and curiosities. I could have spent all day discovering their collection. I bought the Timeless Paris: Marin Montagut book to remind me of our visit. Astier de Villatte was a must-see for gorgeous tabletop pieces. They have shops all over the world, but nothing beats seeing this french brand in Paris. Bonus was seeing their little pug mascot lounging on his own velvet pillow at the counter. Too cute!

After shopping and a quick trip to Notre Dame Cathedral, which was still closed for repairs after the big fire, it was time for a snack, and the cream puffs, or choux, from Odette were just the ticket. So delicious!

Always leave ample room for wandering in Paris. We stumbled upon the sweetest flower shop, Paris Fleuri and took a stroll through Jardin du Luxumbourg before settling back into our neighborhood for dinner. We had a quintessential French dinner at Le Royal — duck confit for me and steak au poivre for Ray. Delicious!

The next morning, our mission was to find the perfect croissant. Mission accomplished! La Maison d’Isabelle was the clear winner. Next we visited Officine Universelle Buly and it was easily one of my favorite experiences of the trip. The French beauty brand is filled with fragrances, lotions, potions and tinctures. I selected a hand lotion and a limited edition fragrance and, as if the packaging weren’t already gorgeous enough, their live calligrapher hand lettered my name and fragrance onto my perfume box. The hospitality was absolute * chef’s kiss * perfection.

Next, we tackled the beast that is the Louvre. We barely scratched the surface, but we saw a few of her most famous ladies including the Nike of Samothrace, Venus de Milo and of course the Mona Lisa. The crowds are as wild as you would imagine around Lisa.

Afterwards, we settled in for a dreamy lunch in the park. The park lounging in Paris is unparalleled and we had an exceptional afternoon with a simple picnic spread of baguettes and beverages in the Jardin du Tulieres. I do believe this is my happy place! If I were to do a full table spread, HERE is what it would look like.

Next, we headed to the Palais-Royale for Ray’s (reluctant) influencer moment at Les Deux Plateaux column installation. We walked around Galerie Vivienne with beautiful little shops and then dined at Bistrot Vivienne. Another delightful meal. We capped the night off with a nighttime viewing of the Eiffel Tower. It was a very special moment to share with the love of my life.

On our last full day in Paris, we meandered a bit more, before having lunch at Les Ombres (a recommendation from local Parisians!) with the most exceptional view of the Eiffel tower and an incredible lunch. The restaurant is on the rooftop of the Musée du quai Branly, which we didn’t get to visit, but admired its gorgeous living wall facade.

Next was one of my favorite neighborhoods, Montmartre to take in the view of the city from Sacré-Cœur. We enjoyed a bit of wine, cheese and people-watching at Le Saint Jean which was tourist-trappy, but fun. Our grand finale meal was arguably the best at Le Bistrot Paul Bert. The deviled eggs, OMG. Definitely make a reservation.

I hope this guide is helpful. Drop a line in the comments and let me know if you plan to visit any of these places. La fin!