Paris is a city teeming with art, culture, and design inspiration at every corner. If you’re planning a visit and looking for something beyond the usual tourist hotspots, we’ve gathered recommendations from renowned interior designers who know the city intimately. Their picks highlight Paris’ rich history and unique charm, offering you experiences you’ll remember forever.
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
Recommended by Thomas Smythe
Nestled in the Marais, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature combines art, history, and an unparalleled celebration of nature. Its eclectic collection features everything from antique hunting weapons to contemporary art installations, creating a magical and unexpected journey for visitors.
Thomas shares, “Go to Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (astonishing and completely unlike anything else in the world). Tell the Polar Bear I say ‘hi’; he knows me.”
Jardin du Luxembourg
Recommended by Garrow Kedigian
Interior designer Garrow Kedigian finds his Parisian inspiration outdoors. “A carefully planned walking adventure for me always either begins or ends with a late afternoon or an early morning walk through the Jardin du Luxembourg,” he says. This sprawling garden, located in the heart of the city’s Left Bank, is a feast for the senses with its manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and peaceful fountains.
Not to be missed is the Medici Fountain, a breathtaking oasis tucked away in the garden’s corner near the Panthéon entrance. Take a moment to relax here, surrounded by history and serenity.
Explore more about Jardin du Luxembourg here.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre
Recommended by Patti Carpenter
Designer Patti Carpenter emphasizes that no trip to Paris is complete without experiencing the panoramic views from Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. Perched atop Montmartre, this iconic basilica offers not only stunning architecture but also a vantage point to take in the sprawling beauty of the City of Light.
“The view of the city is unmatched!” says Patti. Whether you’re visiting at sunrise or twilight, the experience is awe-inspiring. After your visit, explore the bohemian charm of Montmartre’s winding streets, which have inspired countless artists over the centuries.
Plan your trip to Sacré-Cœur here.