Paris
Paris is one of the most-visited cities in the world for a reason. Its majestic landmarks, monumental cultural offering, gorgeous architecture and gastronomic fare have made it a touchpoint of leisure travel for centuries. But today, Paris is the centre of attention for much more than the Louvre and La Tour d’Argent. It is the fashion capital of the world with power players LVMH, Kering and Chanel boosting a thriving ecosystem of chic French labels.
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Historic neighbourhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, with its galleries and bookshops, are buzzier than ever. While previously tranquil areas such as Belleville are now dynamic hubs for eating, shopping and cultural happenings. The bustling, village-like Montorgueil on the Right Bank is where Monocle has set up shop in Paris, its café and shop joining a delightful lineup of independent boutiques and restaurants making their way in an ever more cosmopolitan French capital. Whether you’re looking to stock up on the sharpest new looks, explore centuries of architecture and design or indulge your tastebuds at one of its 132 Michelin-starred restaurants (the most of any city in Europe), Paris doesn’t just have something for everyone – Paris has it all.
Essential information
- Taxi from CDG airport to the city: Parisian G7 taxi fleets cost €56 to Rive Droite and €65 to Rive Gauche.
- How much to tip in restaurants: Service is included in France (you’ll see service compris on the bill). That said, rounding up is polite and appreciated. At a café or a casual lunch, leave some small change or round up to the nearest euro. At dinner, 5 per cent is generous – 10 per cent is positively transatlantic.
- The best steak frites: There are plenty of options but Le Square Trousseau, Chez Georges, Au Crus de Bourgogne and Gallopin are all excellent choices. And always order a glass or two of pinot noir.
- Try a St Germain spritz: Don’t skip out on this floral cocktail that incorporates elderflower liqueur. Try the one at Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
- The newsstand to stop by: To catch up on current affairs, head to Bogopresse, Bonjour Jacob or News and Coffee. Yvon Lambert, a bookshop with a strong focus on art publications, is also worth a detour.
This guide was updated on 9 March 2026
Read next:
- 10 of the best bookshops in Paris
- Monocle’s guide to three must-try classic Paris bistros
- Paris’s five finest tailors and master cobblers
