24 Hours In…. Paris

In 2019, the Prax Group signed a Fuel Network Agreement with Total. As Total’s headquarters are in Paris, we thought we would share the ultimate must-do list for a perfect visit if you only have 24 hours to spend in the City of Love and Light…

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Places To See:

The Eiffel Tower: You can’t come to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower! Whether you head up to the Tower’s summit, or simply admire this incredible structure from the ground, it’s hard not to be amazed by its 324 metres of wrought latticed iron.

Notre Dame Cathedral: After the fire that ravaged Notre Dame in April last year, many companies – Total included – pledged to provide funds to help restore it. Thank goodness they did, because it is a beautiful building, and definitely one to add to your sightseeing list.

L’Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées: The impressive L’Arc de Triomphe should be your starting point for a meander down what is widely regarded as one of the loveliest avenues in the world. A haven for shoppers, Champs-Élysées is also a magnet for foodies.

Things To Discover:

Montmartre: One of the most intriguing places in Paris is the renowned hillside village of Montmartre. The architecture is truly something to behold, from the stunning Sacré-Coeur, whose white Basilica can be seen from most of Paris, to the two remaining windmills (there used to be 13) – Moulin Radet and Moulin de la Galette. Montmartre is also home to the legendary Moulin Rouge, the de facto temple of can-can, and still one of the best places to catch live shows. Alternatively, catch the famous little train for a loop around the area’s major local sights.

Shakespeare & Company: Head to the Left Bank and browse the aisles of this quirky bookshop, as Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce did in their day. We recommend picking up a tome and sequestering yourself in the tiny writing hut, listening to the faint sounds of someone playing the piano upstairs.

Where To Eat:

Le Cinq: Le Cinq is George V’s premier restaurant, and frequently touted as being among the world’s best. With three Michelin stars to his name, the food that comes out of Chef Christian Le Squer’s kitchen is nothing short of magic.

Chez Hanna: Located in the heart of the fashionable Marais district, Chez Hanna will delight taste buds – and wallets. It’s worth waiting for one of their incredible Falafel Shawarmas, but be warned – it gets very busy!

Pierre Hermé Paris: For the best macarons you will ever eat, head to Rue Bonaparte, just a stone’s throw from Le Jardin du Luxembourg. Pierre Hermé’s eponymous shop sells these deliciously flavoured treats to customers from all four corners of the world. When in Paris, right?!

Where To Stay:

Mandarin Oriental: You can’t beat the level of service, or the hotel’s exceptional city centre location. Oh, and it has it’s very own patisserie!

George V: A 1920s art deco landmark, the Four Seasons George V is nestled within the Golden Triangle of Paris. Its three restaurants – with five Michelin stars between them, no less – are home to some of the finest food in all of France.

Monsieur George: The newest hotel in Paris! Designed by Anouska Hempel, the interiors feature abundant greenery, natural lighting and gloriously sumptuous materials – think polished marble, thick pile velvets and large mirrors throughout.

Night Life:

VIP Room – Housed in the famous La Scala building, this private members club is as attractive as the people who frequent it, with mirrored pillars, illuminated cocktail tables and stunning Baroque styling.

Raspoutine: A Russian restaurant and cabaret bar.  Inspired – for no apparent reason – by Grigori Rasputin, the Baroque décor was imagined and designed by the artist, Erté. The Czars would have been proud!

The Wanderlust: AKA the bright green terrace space that runs along the Seine in the 13th arrondissement. As well as serving as a restaurant, outdoor cinema and art gallery, The Wanderlust is also home to an indoor (and sometimes outdoor) nightclub.

Paris Fast Facts:

Population: 2.15 million

Currency: Euros

Time Zone: GMT +1

Languages: French