Two nights in Paris Travel Guide
Paris, the city of love, has my heart—it’s one of my all-time favorite places! No matter how many times I visit, I always find new reasons to fall for its charm.
With each trip, Paris gets better. These days, it’s less about the iconic tourist spots (though they’re always magical) and more about soaking up the local vibes. Both sides of Paris offer something special, but they’re such different experiences!
Check out the links to my past trips below. Fair warning: my photo edits from the first visit are a little cringe—but hey, growth is all part of the journey, right? 😊
Here for the Christmas Market tips? Scroll down to the bottom!
Flying Route: How I Got to Paris
The adventure began with a quick hop from San Francisco to Seattle, and then it was time for the long-haul magic: Seattle to Paris in Delta One. Let me tell you, this isn’t just a flight—it’s an experience in itself.
From the incredible dining options to the attentive meal service, Delta One makes every moment feel special. And let’s not forget the endless entertainment. My personal favorite? Watching Mariah Carey’s concert in Japan—it was the perfect mix of nostalgia and glam to set the tone for Paris!
If you’re ever lucky enough to experience Delta One, trust me, it’s a treat worth savoring.
Where to stay:
For this trip, we switched things up by staying at a different hotel each night. It was the perfect way to experience different vibes and explore new neighborhoods. Both hotels were absolutely stunning and in prime locations!
Hotel 1: Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel
This gem is perfectly situated near one of my favorite neighborhoods, Montmartre. It’s also within walking distance of iconic spots like the Louvre, Palais-Royal, and Bourse de Commerce. The hotel itself? Gorgeous! From the elegant decor to the beautifully designed rooms, it’s a dream stay.
Hotel 2: Le Metropolitan, Paris Tour Eiffel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
This hotel offers something truly magical—a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower right from your room. (Pro tip: Be sure to request a room with the view!) The location couldn’t be better, with easy access to Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Av. de Camoens, Carette, and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s a fantastic base for soaking in the best of the city.
Each stay brought its own unique charm, making the trip all the more unforgettable!
Where to eat:
I finally tried escargot for the first time at Le Cristal Bar Brasserie, and wow—they did not disappoint! Perfectly drenched in olive oil and garlic, these little bites were rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Paired with fresh, crusty bread, it was a culinary experience I won’t forget!
- Le Café Marly
- Café Pigalle
- ChoCho
- Le Café Suédois
- Le Cristal Bar Brasserie
- Bambini Paris
What to Pack for December Weather in Paris
Layers, layers, and more layers! December in Paris can be chilly, with temperatures around 25–30 degrees Celsius (77–86°F) during our stay. Packing smart is key to staying cozy while still looking stylish.
Thermal layers were my lifesaver! I wore them under all my outfits, and they made a world of difference. My go-to? Uniqlo’s HeatTech line—they’re super effective, lightweight, and come in a variety of styles to fit seamlessly with any outfit.
Stay warm and stylish, and you’ll be ready to explore the city no matter the weather!
Photo Locations
Some iconic spots in Paris have become tricky to access thanks to their Instagram fame. For example, the Trocadéro stairs are now gated off, and the street leading to the Eiffel Tower is often packed with people risking it all for the perfect shot in the middle of traffic.
But don’t worry—there are still plenty of beautiful (and safer) locations to snap your photos! Below are some of my favorite spots, offering either ample space to shoot or tucked-away charm with little to no crowds:
- Av. de Camoens
- The Lourve
- 4 Sq. de Maubeuge
- Tuileries Garden
- Palais-Royal
- Eglise de la Sainte Trinité
December Christmas Market: A Foodie’s Paradise
If you’re a foodie, the Paris Christmas Market is an absolute must-visit! I was blown away by the variety of food options—from classic French escargot to hearty paella, creamy pasta dishes, and gooey fondue. Honestly, I wanted to try everything!
Compared to the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Paris feels more family-oriented. There’s an abundance of rides and games that give it a festive, fair-like atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination if you’re traveling with kids.
Tips for Visiting:
- Arrive hungry! The food options are endless, and sampling as much as you can is part of the fun.
- Bring cash. While some vendors accept cards, cash is more widely used.
- Visit during the evening. The market lights up beautifully after dark, making it even more magical.
- Layer up! December evenings can get chilly, so stay warm while exploring.
Whether you’re there for the food, the festive vibes, or the family-friendly activities, the Paris Christmas Market is an unforgettable experience.
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I hope this Paris guide inspires you to visit during the Christmas market season. Have you been to Paris? What advice would give to others?
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