Paris. The city of love, light and endless inspiration. Yet this magical city is often experienced at lightning speed: a race past the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and other famous hotspots. But what if you explore Paris in a quiet and sustainable way? In this slow travel city trip guide, I take you to hidden gems, cosy eateries and atmospheric spots where you experience the real Paris. Will you join me for a weekend trip to Paris?
A train journey to Paris - A smooth journey with minimal impact on the environment
A slow travel adventure starts with the journey itself. From the Netherlands, the train is an eco-friendly and relaxed way to reach Paris. Board the Thalys in Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Breda, and within a few hours you will arrive in the heart of the city. Enjoy the changing scenery along the way, brush up on your French vocabulary or dive into a good book. No long queues like at the airport, but a smooth journey with minimal impact on the environment.
Curious about the possibilities for a train trip to Paris? Then take a look at NS International.
Special activities in Paris
Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
1. Climb the Arc de Triomphe at sunset
Instead of seeking out the crowds at the Eiffel Tower, climb the Arc de Triomphe. This majestic arch offers one of the most beautiful views of the city. Especially at sunset. As the sky turns pink, Paris stretches out below you. The iconic Eiffel Tower, shrouded in thousands of twinkling lights, completes the picture. Walk up 300 steps and get an experience you won't soon forget. It's an intimate way to admire the city from above, away from the crowds. Order tickets online in advance.
83 Bd Ornano, 75018 Paris
2. Visit creative breeding place La REcyclerie
For a real slow travel moment, visit La REcyclerie, a former train stop on the outskirts of Paris. This place oozes sustainability and creativity. While sipping a fresh coffee, attend workshops, explore the city farm or simply enjoy the green oasis. The kitchen offers delicious dishes using ingredients from its own garden or local farmers. Be sure to try the homemade quiche or a colourful bowl - sustainable and tasty all in one. Fun events are organised regularly, such as the outdoor cinema.
Coffee and food in Paris
50 Rue Catherine de La Rochefoucauld, 75009 Paris
1. Vegetarian enjoyment at La Cantine de Sam
For a nutritious meal, La Cantine de Sam in the 9th arrondissement is the place to be. Here it is all about fresh, organic and seasonal dishes. The cosy interior invites for a long lunch or a relaxed dinner. The lentil curry with seasonal vegetables is a must, with a creamy panna cotta as the perfect ending. La Cantine de Sam proves that sustainable dining in Paris is anything but boring.
Airy pancakes with maple syrup
2. Breakfast at Holybelly
Start your day like the locals at Holybelly, a popular breakfast and brunch café. The menu features temptations lovingly prepared with local and seasonal ingredients. Try the airy pancakes with maple syrup or go for the homemade granola with fresh fruit. Holybelly is the ideal start to a day full of discoveries - a moment of calm with a cup of steaming coffee in your hands.
63 Rue Manin, 75019 Paris
3. Ora Farmhouse: Rural tranquillity in the city
At Ora Farmhouse, you imagine yourself in the countryside, but in the middle of bustling Paris. This restaurant is known for its focus on local produce and simple but tasty dishes. The salad with roasted pumpkin, feta and candied lemon is a favourite among regulars. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, whether you come for a long lunch or a cosy dining experience.
38 rue du Faubourg du Temple, Paris 11
4. A letter moment at Pli - Café à lettres
Need to escape the hustle and bustle? Visit Pli - Café à lettres. A café that combines reading, writing and coffee. Take a seat with a cup of tea or a flat white and write a letter to your future self. You can choose whether you want to receive your letter in one, five or even 20 years. Write about an adventure you don't want to forget or help yourself remember to be kind to yourself. The serene atmosphere and scent of freshly ground coffee make for a wonderfully mindful moment during your city break in Paris.
22 Av. de Tourville, 75007 Paris
5. Brunch at Zia
For a tasty brunch or a good cup of coffee, go to Zia. This cosy restaurant combines the best of modern brunch dishes with a homely atmosphere. The menu is seasonal and offers delicacies like a creamy shakshuka or a buttery avocado toast with poached egg. The specialty coffee is highly recommended: carefully brewed and perfect to start your day. Our favourite? The Dutch Baby Pancakes with seasonal vegetables!
Shopping in Paris
37 rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris
1. Impressive books at Shakespeare and Company
For book lovers, a visit to Shakespeare and Company is a must. This legendary bookshop on the Seine combines history with charm. Stroll along the book-filled shelves and discover unique titles, while the smell of old paper surrounds you. Here you can wander for hours, chat with other travellers and perhaps find that one book that will stick with you.
56, rue de Turbigo, 75003 Paris
2. Boutique Pan Paris: sustainable shopping
You can shop sustainably at Boutique Pan Paris, a shop with a carefully composed collection of fashion, accessories and home decoration. All products are locally made or sourced from sustainable suppliers. It is a great place to score a unique souvenir, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. And all the colourful items are guaranteed to make you leave with a smile and a nice item in your pocket.
Spending the night in Paris
28, rue de l'Arc de Triomphe, 75017 Paris
1. Stay at the Hidden Hotel
For a unique overnight stay during a weekend break in Paris, choose Hidden Hotel. This boutique hotel combines comfort with sustainability. The rooms are decorated with natural materials such as wood, linen and stone. The hotel is located in a quiet street, but within walking distance of Paris' lively highlights (which, of course, you'll want to have seen too 😉 ). Start the day with an organic breakfast, featuring fresh bread, homemade jams and local cheeses.
96 quai de Jemmapes 75010 Paris
2. Hotel Le Citizen: spending the night by the water
Another wonderful accommodation is Hotel Le Citizen in the 10th arrondissement, located on the Canal Saint-Martin. The hotel exudes simplicity and elegance, with bright rooms and views of the rippling water. This is the perfect place to spend a slow morning with a coffee on your balcony, before exploring Paris further on a weekend getaway.
Experiencing Paris the slow travel way brings you closer to the soul of the city. Away from the crowds and tourist hotspots, you will discover little corners, meet inspiring people and taste the real Paris. Whether you're standing at the top of the Arc de Triomphe, writing a letter in a quiet café to your future self, this guide will help you slow down and consciously enjoy yourself. So go on a train ride, take your time and immerse yourself in the real Paris. We're curious to know what your favourite is! Let us know by using @honeyguide.co.uk or #heyhoneyguide on Instagram?
Love,
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