We’ve gathered insights from Paris regulars and trusted voices within the Kravet design community to share their must-visit spots, insider tips, and favorite ways to experience the City of Lights. From iconic museums, and historic landmarks to chic cafés, boutiques, and day trips, with Paris Déco Off and Maison & Objet 2026 setting the design-world backdrop, consider this your curated, design-forward guide.
Trish Sheats (@trishsheatsid)
Must-Dos in Paris
Paris shines brightest, Trish says, in its outdoor markets. Wandering neighborhood stalls filled with pastries, flowers, produce, and fresh fish is one of the most authentic ways to experience Parisian culture, and an ideal place to pick up a small gift. A Versailles day trip is an easy escape for architecture and history lovers, while Notre-Dame Cathedral remains unforgettable and well worth the wait.
Favorite Paris Shops
Au Bain Marie is a go-to for charming home and tabletop finds. Tamaris feels like a private museum, and while reservation is required, it’s worth it for its elevated, thoughtfully displayed pieces. The original Hermès flagship store rounds out her list, offering iconic architecture and exclusive designs.
Restaurants, Cafés & Cocktails
Chez Julien delivers cozy, classic Parisian charm. Le Petit Lutetia is a warm neighborhood favorite, while Girafe brings lively energy and prime people-watching.
Lunch Favorites: LouLou, Café Marly for Louvre views, and Le Récamier, famous for its soufflés, especially the Grand Marnier.
Museums & Galleries
Musée d’Orsay is endlessly inspiring, from its art to its light-filled architecture. La Galerie Dior is a must for fashion and design enthusiasts. The Musée du Louvre is best enjoyed with a guide, and Musée de l’Orangerie offers a serene stop for Monet’s Water Lilies.
Paris Pro Tips
Plan outfits in advance, hire a guide for Versailles, and always choose skip-the-line tickets when available.
Amanda Lantz (@lantzcollective)
Paris First-Time Essentials
Amanda believes Paris is all about indulgent stops and well-planned wanderings. Begin at Officine Universelle Buly for perfume and gifts, allowing time for the inevitable line. From there, head to L’Avenue for a quintessential Parisian lunch. Design lovers should book an appointment at Tamaris to explore exquisite tablescapes, and for the evening, Hôtel Costes is a must for cocktails and caviar.
Favorite Paris Shops
Le Bon Marché is a favorite for leisurely browsing. The Dior boutique on Avenue Montaigne stands out not only for fashion but for its beautifully designed interiors, with lunch there always a highlight. Hermès on Faubourg Saint-Honoré is another essential stop, embodying classic Parisian style.
Favorite Restaurants and Nightcaps
Caviar Kaspia is a top pick for a glamorous meal, especially the famous caviar baked potato. The bar at Hôtel de Crillon offers timeless elegance, while Hôtel Lutetia remains Amanda’s go-to for a perfect nightcap.
Must-Visit Museums
The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is typically an easy, charming visit; however, it is currently closed due to construction and is expected to reopen in Fall 2027. The Musée d’Orsay remains her true favorite for both the art and the architecture.
Paris Pro Tip
You can never have too many outfits or accessories in Paris.
Tula Summerford (@designbytula)
Paris First-Time Essentials
Visit the Louvre early, plan a Versailles day trip, and linger in Saint-Germain-des-Prés with coffee and croissants for the best people-watching. A walk through La Grande Épicerie is a must for food lovers.
Favorite Paris Shops
Valois Vintage, La Marelle, and Printemps (Tula’s favorite department store in the world).
Where to Eat & Drink
Le Tout Paris at Cheval Blanc is ideal for cocktails with views of the Seine and Eiffel Tower. Girafe shines again for its terrace, and Hotel Costes remains an iconic choice.
Paris Pro Tips
Skip Eiffel Tower lines by dining at Jules Verne, learn basic French greetings, avoid over-scheduling, and stay central to explore Paris on foot.
Kelly Caron (@kellycarondesigns)
What to See
Kelly recommends the classics: the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Versailles, and La Galerie Dior. She also suggests checking current fashion and art exhibitions at venues like the Grand Palais, plus a visit to the Moulin Rouge for something fun and unexpected.
Favorite Paris Shops
Officine Universelle Buly 1803 for fragrance lovers, Galeries Lafayette (Haussmann and Champs-Élysées) for shopping and views, and Le Bon Marché in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, especially during winter sales.
Restaurants & Cocktail Bars
Le Coupe-Chou for historic charm, Maxim’s de Paris for classic glamour, The Little Red Door for cocktails, and the bar at Hotel Lutetia.
Timothy Corrigan (@timothycorrigan)
Paris Musts
Walk as much as possible, Paris reveals itself best on foot.
Timothy’s Favorite Shops
Deyrolle, located in the design district on Rue du Mail, and the Christian Dior home store.
Dining and Cocktails
Le Voltaire for dinner, Gigi’s for views, and L’Avenue for lunchtime people-watching.
Museums
Musée Carnavalet and Hôtel de la Marine.
Paris Pro Tip
Don’t leave Paris without visiting the famed Clignancourt flea market. Explore more of Timothy’s Paris recommendations in his book At Home in France: Inspiration and Style in Town and Country, (Rizzoli, $65).
Kit Kemp (@kitkempdesignthread)
Where to Stay & Wander
Kit begins in Le Marais, staying at Hotel Pavillon de la Reine. Tucked discreetly behind one of the city’s most picturesque squares, the hotel feels like a hidden sanctuary, calm, intimate, and wrapped in classic Parisian charm.
Neighborhood Favorites
Le Marais is where Kit loves to spend her time, wandering through its boutiques and coffee shops, each one distinct and brimming with character and creativity.
Paris Pro Tip
Choose a hotel that feels like a retreat. Having a quiet, beautiful locale to return to makes the energy of the city even more magical.
