A Perfect Paris Day on the Left Bank 🇫🇷 | Hidden Gems, Art Shops & a Rooftop Sunset
Bonjour, friends…
Today I’m taking you on what I truly believe is one of the most beautiful ways to spend a day in Paris … Wandering the Left Bank. No rushing. No checklist. Just a slow stroll along the Seine, a beautiful garden, my favorite shops, a museum and of course the best places to eat on this side of the seine! I Can’t wait to share my favorite places with you!
So let’s begin…
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Morning: Croissants & Quiet Streets
We start along the Seine; that gentle ribbon of light that wraps the city in romance. Our first stop is Maison d’Isabelle for what might be the most golden, flaky croissant in the 6th arrondissement. Buttery layers shatter like delicate paper, and suddenly all is right in the world. (I recorded my “take” on this famous place while I was sick in Paris, so excuse the voice)
Now grab a coffee and wander toward Luxembourg Gardens. In the heart of Luxembourg Gardens, sunlight spills across gravel paths and green chairs, where fountains whisper, children sail toy boats, and time itself seems to exhale beneath the chestnut trees.
Walking beside the Medici Fountain feels like stepping into a quiet painting—ivy trailing over stone, the water spilling over the steps and everyone enjoying a moment of rest on the iconic green chairs. Tak a moment to paint or sketch in your journal here.
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Mid-Morning: Hidden Shops & Sacred Spaces
Wander the gardens and exit on the west side by Rue Guynemer and make your way to the charming boutique of Marin Montagut. This shop is pure Parisian magic — hand-painted ceramics, delicate illustrations, and objects that feel like heirlooms waiting to happen.
A visit to Marin Montagut is like opening a treasure box of Parisian charm, and the perfect place to find souvenirs and artful gifts that carry a little piece of Paris home to the ones you love.
Just up the street rises Saint-Sulpice Church. Step inside. Let the hush settle over you. If you’re lucky, there may be a small market outside in the square with flowers, antiques, bookk… and maybe even a little treasure you didn’t know you needed.
Now wander back towards Boulevard Saint-Germain — the heartbeat of the Left Bank. But before you do, let’s pop into some of my favorite shops for French fashion!
Les Nereides - for beautiful jewelry that won’t break the bank and will become treasured to pass down for generations.
Citypharma - legendary for French skincare finds. Yes, this is where the locals stock up, and you should too!
Don’t miss Flabelus - a tiny shoe shop where colorful choices come alive on the shelves, and find room in your suitcase going home!
By now, you’ve earned lunch…
Continue up the boulevard to Ralph’s tucked inside a courtyard that feels like a secret garden. This hidden oasis is a respite from the busy street, and welcomes you with beautiful seating and elegance all around. The kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger for a while. Check out their flagship store and Ralph’s coffee shop too! Note: You will need advance reservations for Ralphs.
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Afternoon: Art & the Seine
Now that you’re feed and rested, head towards the river and step into Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a former train station, this museum is filled with light and color. Monet’s water lilies. Degas’ dancers. Van Gogh’s swirling skies. Take your time here. Let the paintings inspire you.
Afterwards, stroll back along the Seine, enjoying the afternoon breeze and the magic of Paris. Now make your way to two of my favorite art supply shops: Sennelier & Charvin. Both right on the left bank of the Seine.
Even if you’re not an artist, the pigments alone are worth seeing. Rows of color, antique drawers filled with pastels and brushes waiting for their next masterpiece.
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Sunset: Rooftop & Golden Light
As evening approaches, head to the rooftop at Hôtel Dame des Arts. This is where Paris shows off.
The Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance. The rooftops glow honey-gold. Church domes rise like silhouettes against the sky. It’s the kind of view that makes you exhale and think, I can’t believe I’m here.
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Evening: A Perfect Ending
Wander back towards your dinner location, in the passageway of Cour du Commerce Saint-André. One of the most charming hidden lanes in the whole city. Twinkling lights. Cozy bistros. The hum of conversation. Choose one of the beautiful restaurants in this lovely passageway.
Note: Some are reservation only, so plan ahead.
Order something comforting, and let the day settle around you like an old friend.
And that, my friends, is a perfect Left Bank day. Not rushed. Not crowded. Just layered with beauty — croissants, gardens, art, rooftops, and little pauses in between.
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Let me know if this inspires your next trip to Paris!
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