Live Like a True Parisian – My Daily Rhythm (No Beret Required)
As a true Parisian, I invite you to join me on a journey through my daily routine, filled with café culture, leisurely strolls, and indulgent culinary delights. So grab your beret and your baguette, and let's dive into the art of living life like a true Parisian. Follow my exemple
1. Wake Up Around 8 am:
Ah, the gentle hum of the city as it awakens from its slumber. But don't rush to the kitchen just yet – we Parisians have a different approach to breakfast. Instead of a hearty meal at home, we prefer to start our day with a leisurely stroll to the nearest bakery for a freshly baked croissant. Check out my map for the best bakeries in town – trust me, you won't be disappointed. So do like the Parisians, wake up, brush your teeth and go ! 5min from wake up to the door.
2. Café Culture:
With croissant in hand, it's time to make your way to a charming café, where you can savor your morning coffee in true Parisian style. Traditionnaly most parisians would stop for 15-20min at the café before going to work, to read the news or chat with friends from the neighbourhood. The café makes the local cultre !
Choose a spot on the terrace and take in the sights and sounds of the bustling city streets, that’s exaclty why the chairs are places not facing each other, but facing the street. This is the perfect time to relax, read the newspaper, or simply watch the world go by. And remember, don't be tempted by the breakfast menu – the croissant you picked up earlier is far superior to anything the café has to offer.
3. Explore the Neighborhood:
After breakfast, it's time to explore the picturesque streets of Paris. Take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, stopping to admire the architecture, browse the local shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. If you're in the mood for some greenery, head to the Jardin du Luxembourg – a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. And for a truly authentic Parisian experience, why not rent a Velib' bike and explore the city's iconic landmarks at your own pace?
If you do so, go on the banks, it’s delighful and carfree.
4. Lunchtime Delights:
By now, you've worked up an appetite, and it's time to indulge in a leisurely lunch. In France, lunch is a sacred affair, so be sure to wait until at least 12:30 before sitting down to eat. Consult my map for recommendations on the best restaurants in town – personally, I recommend the Bouillon Racine for a truly memorable dining experience, and it’s right by the Luxembourg Garden.
5. Afternoon Activities:
With lunch out of the way, it's time to immerse yourself in some quintessentially Parisian pastimes. Perhaps you'd like to catch a French movie at one of the city's oldest independent theaters rue Champolion.
Or browse the shelves at the iconic bookshop Gibert Joseph boulevard Saint-Michel. An institution for generations of students and bookworms who bought and sold their books here by tons. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of books and discover hidden literary gems that will transport you to another world.
And don’t hesite to stop at another café to read the gems you found, there is no such thing as to much time in a café. I personnaly often go twice, once in the morning, once in the afternoon.
And don't forget to indulge in the quintessential French tradition of le goûter – a sweet treat to tide you over until dinner. Maybe try something else like the “Chausson au Pommes”, croissant with apple compote.
6. Evening Entertainment:
As the sun begins to set, head to the lively streets of the Rue Mouffetard for a taste of Parisian nightlife. Join the locals for a drink at one of the charming cafes or wine bars, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling neighborhood. Classes for students, school and work usually end around the same hour for everyong, between 5-7pm. That’s when everyone one blends in a carefree melting pot of generations and background, in a liverly village atmosphere.
And when it comes time for dinner, remember – in Paris, the evening meal is a leisurely affair, so don't expect to find any restaurants open before 8 pm.
7. Nighttime Wanderings:
After dinner, why not take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin? This iconic waterway comes alive at night, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the festive atmosphere. Grab a drink with friends, soak up the summer vibes, and revel in the magic of Paris after dark