Bienvenue à Paris, where the coffee is strong, the fashion is stronger, and the attitude? Well, let’s just say Parisians have mastered the art of the effortless eye-roll. With Paris Fashion Week in full swing, the city is buzzing with couture, croissants, and crowds trying to get a glimpse of their favourite designers. Whether you’re here for the runway shows or just to live out your Midnight in Paris fantasy, this guide has everything you need to eat, explore, and maybe even fake a bit of that Parisian nonchalance. Ready?
This week, KHAMSA explores Paris with Maya Khodr (@beinginvisibles on Instagram), a Beirut-based artist at heart who found her creative path as a designer and content creator. Her biggest passion is dance, and for her it isn’t just about movement—it’s therapy, a daily ritual that keeps her grounded. Fashion is her favourite form of self-expression, allowing her to tell her story without saying a word. A true dessert lover with a serious sweet tooth, she somehow balances her indulgences with a passion for wellness. Skincare? That’s her love language. Currently, Maya juggles her work as a content creator and graphic designer while pouring her energy into a personal project set to launch in six months. Stay tuned—exciting things are coming!
Top must-visit food spots?
Pose Café (11ème) – “Featured in the movie Chacun Cherche Son Chat. Offers a daily plat du jour, serving classic, authentic French cuisine”.
La Renommée (10ème) + Speakeasy
Home to the best burger ever, plus an awesome speakeasy hidden inside.
Tara Cafevin (11ème) – “My best friend just opened her bar a vin bar a café and it is so good!”
Holybelly (10ème)
The ultimate brunch spot. Seriously, nothing else compares.
Kunitoraya (1er) — “Incredible Asian cuisine with a focus on Japanese flavours”.
Augustin Bar à Vin (3ème)
The wine selection here will blow your mind.
Must-visit cultural spots?
Centre Pompidou (4ème) — “A bit cliché, but absolutely worth it. The modern art collection is top-tier”.
Opéra Garnier (9ème) — “Book tickets for a ballet in advance—it’s always packed”.
Fondation Louis Vuitton (16ème)
A masterpiece of contemporary art and architecture.
Louvre Museum (1er) — “You could visit a hundred times and still discover something new”.
Best places for sundowners/roof-top places?
Bramble at Les Ombres (7ème) — “Sip your cocktail with a killer view of the Eiffel Tower”.
Les Quais de Paris — “Just grab a beer and find a spot along the Seine. Perfectly Parisian”.
ROOF Paris at Hôtel Madame Rêve (1er) — “A chic rooftop bar with sweeping city views”.
Best places for shopping?
Nice Piece Vintage (11ème) — “Hidden gem for vintage lovers”.
L’Eclaireur (various locations) — “High-end concept store with curated fashion and design”.
Dover Street Market (8ème) — “Avant-garde fashion mecca”.
Aesavant (3ème) — “A treasure trove of unique pieces”.
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
Hôtel National des Arts et Métiers (3ème) — “Central to all the cool spots with a fantastic bar”.
Nolinski Opéra Louvre (1er) — “A luxurious stay with exceptional design”.
Brach Paris (16ème) — “Chic and cosy with a rooftop that offers a hidden garden vibe”.
Underrated Places?
Les Catacombes (14ème) — “A secret underground city. You’ll need insider access to get in”.
Les Puces de Saint-Ouen (18ème)
The ultimate flea market.
What should you avoid?
In the Metro: Don’t look like a tourist. Walk with confidence to avoid pickpockets.
Jewellery: Leave your diamonds and gold at home.
Ubers: There are so many better ways to get around—walk, bike, take the metro.
Tourist Traps: Avoid random street restaurants. Do your research to avoid overpriced, subpar meals.
Dogs: Always ask before petting. Parisians take this seriously.
Must-pack items?
Uniqlo Heattech: Layer up to stay warm.
A Practical Bag: Big enough for all your essentials and ideally with a strap.
Hand Cream: The dry air is no joke.
An Extra Suitcase: For all the inevitable shopping.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, even in winter.
An Umbrella: Because Paris weather is moody.
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
Stay Local: Plan your day by arrondissement. If you’re having lunch in the 11ème, explore that area all day.
The Waiters: Yes, they’re rude. No, it’s not personal. Just roll with it.
Reservations: Do not cancel. It’s a cultural thing—commitment matters.
Group Size: Keep it small. Restaurants handle groups of 6 or fewer much better.
