The Ultimate Guide to Paris for Foodies
Paris is synonymous with food, am I right? Taking food tours and cooking classes in Paris is a dream come true for any culinary enthusiast. The city is a paradise for food lovers, offering a unique opportunity to explore its vibrant food scene with local guides who lead you through markets, bakeries, and hidden gems. On a food tour, you can savor artisanal cheeses, freshly baked croissants, and world-class pastries while learning about French culinary traditions. For a hands-on experience, cooking classes allow you to immerse yourself in the art of French cuisine, whether it’s mastering the perfect soufflé, learning the secrets of French sauces, or preparing a traditional three-course meal. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced home cook, these experiences let you create unforgettable memories while gaining a deeper understanding of Paris’s rich gastronomic culture.
So whether you’re interested in learning classic French techniques, how to make those buttery savory sauces, or perfecting your pastry skills, there’s a cooking class in Paris to tantalize you. I once spent a week at a French cooking school and it’s still one of my favorite experiences ever! What’s your dream cooking or dining experience? Tell me about it in the comments.
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Le Foodist in Paris
I wrote about my recent experience at Le Foodist, a school which offers an immersive and authentic French cooking experience in the heart of Paris. Their hands-on classes allow participants to learn classic French dishes, such as croissants, macarons, or traditional French sauces, under the guidance of professional chefs. With a focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients, Le Foodist provides a fun and educational way to discover the art of French cuisine while experiencing the culinary culture of Paris.
The best food tours in Paris
Devour Tours is a premier food tour company committed to offering immersive and authentic culinary experiences in some of the world’s most vibrant food destinations. Founded with a passion for connecting travelers to local cultures through food, Devour Tours provides expertly guided adventures that highlight regional flavors, hidden gems, and time-honored traditions. Each experience is crafted to showcase the stories behind the food and the people who create it. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, family-run establishments, and exceptional storytelling, Devour Tours creates unforgettable moments for food lovers eager to explore a city like a true local.
Paris Pastry and Chocolate Tour
The Devour Food Tours Paris Pastry and Chocolate Tour offers an indulgent journey through the city’s most renowned pastry shops and chocolate boutiques. Led by passionate local guides, this tour takes you through charming neighborhoods, where you’ll sample delicate pastries like buttery croissants, decadent éclairs, and perfect macarons, each representing the artistry of Parisian patisseries. Along the way, you’ll also dive into the world of French chocolate, tasting velvety truffles, rich ganaches, and expertly crafted confections from some of the city’s finest chocolatiers. The experience is not only a feast for the senses but also an immersive opportunity to learn about the history and techniques behind Paris’s pastry and chocolate traditions, making it an unforgettable treat for any food lover.
Take a food tour with a local Parisian
The Tour Guy is a highly-rated travel company that specializes in expertly curated tours across Europe. They offer unique and immersive experiences that bring history, culture, and cuisine to life. I’ve taken their tours in Spain (LINK) and can vouch for their quality. Known for their engaging storytelling and skip-the-line access to major attractions, The Tour Guy also excels in food tours, providing travelers with a delightful way to explore iconic cities. Their culinary experiences, which include traditional Roman pasta-making classes, food and wine tours in Florence, and pastry tastings in Paris, showcase the best local flavors and hidden gems. With expert guides leading the tours, travelers enjoy a perfect blend of history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, making every adventure unforgettable, especially for food lovers.
Semi-Private Champagne Day Trip From Paris With Lunch and Tastings
This tour offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of France’s Champagne region. This intimate tour takes you on a scenic journey from Paris to the rolling vineyards of Champagne, where you’ll visit prestigious wineries and experience the craftsmanship behind the world’s finest sparkling wines. Enjoy a guided tour of the champagne cellars, learning about the production process and the history of this iconic drink. Along with the tastings of exquisite champagnes, the tour includes a gourmet lunch in a charming local restaurant, where you’ll savor regional specialties paired perfectly with bubbly. With a small group size, the experience feels personal and relaxed, ensuring you have plenty of time to appreciate the beauty of the countryside and indulge in the region’s luxurious flavors.
Enjoy a unique culinary experience
Eatwith creates authentic local experiences like a decadent French picnic, an underground Parisian dinner in a secret garden, dinner in a Bohemian apartment.
Take a cooking class in Paris
GetYourGuide is a leading online travel platform that connects travelers with unforgettable experiences around the world. They offer a wide range of tours, activities, and excursions tailored to various interests. One of their most popular offerings is food tours, which allow visitors to explore the culinary essence of different destinations through immersive tastings, cooking classes, and market visits. Travelers can indulge in authentic Italian pasta-making in Rome, savor street food in Bangkok, or enjoy a wine and tapas tour in Barcelona. GetYourGuide provides expertly curated experiences led by local guides. With seamless booking and highly rated options, their food tours are perfect for those looking to taste their way through a city while discovering its culture and traditions.
Paris: French Macaron Culinary Class with a Chef
This French Macaron Culinary Class with a Chef is a delightful and hands-on experience for anyone eager to master the art of making the iconic French macaron. Under the guidance of a skilled pastry chef, you’ll learn the delicate techniques involved in crafting these delicate, colorful treats. From preparing the perfect meringue to piping and assembling the macarons, you’ll gain insider tips and tricks that will elevate your baking skills. As you work, you’ll explore the history of the macaron, and once your creations are complete, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring your freshly made macarons paired with a cup of coffee or tea. This interactive class offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in French pastry traditions while enjoying a fun and educational experience in the heart of Paris.
If you really want to splurge, cook at the Ritz
On my very first trip to Paris decades ago, in fact, my first trip to Europe, The École Ritz Escoffier, located within the renowned Ritz Paris, offers an exceptional culinary experience for both aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts. Named after the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier, the school blends traditional French cooking techniques with modern innovation, providing hands-on lessons in a world-class environment. Students can participate in a variety of classes, ranging from pastry making and French sauces to gourmet meal preparation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, the school’s expert chefs offer personalized instruction in small, intimate groups. The École Ritz Escoffier is an ideal destination for those looking to refine their culinary skills while immersing themselves in the rich history and luxury of the Ritz Paris.
Understanding the Paris Arrondissement System
Before you book a place to stay, it’s important to understand the layout of Paris. Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or administrative districts, that spiral outwards from the city center like a snail shell. The 1st arrondissement, home to landmarks like the Louvre, sits at the heart of Paris, and the numbers increase as you move outward in a clockwise direction. Each arrondissement has its own unique charm, identity, and postal code (e.g., 75001 for the 1st, 75002 for the 2nd), which can help when locating addresses. Locals often refer to neighborhoods by their arrondissement number—so when someone says they live in the “7th,” they mean the 7th arrondissement, near the Eiffel Tower. Understanding this system not only helps with getting around but also gives insight into the city’s layout and local culture.
Where to stay in Paris
Paris is known for its romantic ambiance, world-class dining, and, of course, its incredible hotels. Whether you’re seeking the utmost luxury, a comfortable stay with a moderate budget, or a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on charm, Paris has something for every type of traveler. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best hotels across three categories: luxury, moderate, and budget, with their price ranges to help you choose the right fit for your trip.
The Best Luxury Hotels in Paris
Located in the heart of Paris, Le Meurice offers classic French luxury with opulent interiors, fine dining, and stunning views of the Tuileries Gardens. This hotel is a favorite among celebrities and offers impeccable service, a world-renowned spa, and an atmosphere steeped in Parisian history. The price range is $800–$1,500+ per night.
A Parisian icon, the Ritz Paris is a must-see for those looking to indulge in timeless elegance. Located in the Place Vendôme, this hotel offers exceptional rooms and suites, several Michelin-starred dining options, and an exclusive atmosphere perfect for a truly lavish experience at $1,200–$3,000+ per night.
Housed in a former palace with views of the Eiffel Tower, the Shangri-La is a blend of Asian hospitality and Parisian grandeur. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, exquisite dining, and a wellness center. The hotel’s rich history and luxurious ambiance make it one of the finest choices in Paris with a $900–$2,000+ nightly rate.
The Best Moderate Hotels in Paris
Nestled in the lively Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood – my favorite arrondissement to stay in – Hotel Le Six is a chic boutique hotel offering a comfortable stay with a personal touch. With stylish rooms, a cozy lounge area, and a spa, it provides a great balance of comfort and affordability from $200–$450 per night.
For a romantic stay near the Eiffel Tower, Hotel La Comtesse is a charming option. With Parisian-themed décor, this mid-range hotel offers cozy rooms, a beautiful café, and an unbeatable location, making it a great choice for visitors who want a great experience without the price tag of a luxury hotel at $180–$350 per night.
Located in the trendy 2nd arrondissement, Hotel des Grands Boulevards elegant boutique hotel features stylish rooms with modern amenities, a beautiful terrace, and a cozy restaurant. The hotel is ideally situated for exploring Paris’ best attractions, including the Louvre and Palais Royal.
Budget Hotels in Paris
Just steps from the Champs-Élysées, Hotel Ekta is a stylish budget hotel with a fashion-forward flair. With minimalist yet chic rooms, it offers comfort and convenience without the high price tag. It’s perfect for those who want to stay near the iconic sights but don’t want to break the bank at $100–$200 per night.
For a budget-conscious traveler looking for a social atmosphere, The 3 Ducks Hostel in the 15th arrondissement is a great option. With a lively vibe, affordable rooms, and a rooftop terrace with views of Paris, it’s an ideal spot for young travelers or those looking to meet new people on a budget of $40–$100 per night.
Hotel Ibis Paris Montmartre 18ème with a location in the lively Montmartre area is no exception. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a hearty breakfast, and easy access to the area’s artistic history and the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
If you prefer to have your own space, book a vacation rental in Paris.
Getting to Paris
Getting to Paris is easy thanks to its major international airport, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), which is well-connected to cities worldwide. Alternatively, Orly Airport (ORY) serves numerous European and international flights. Visitors can also reach the city via high-speed trains like the Eurostar or Thalys, making it accessible from neighboring countries such as the UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands. To secure the best fares, it’s generally recommended to book flights in advance, especially during off-peak seasons. The best times for cheap fares to Paris are typically from late fall (November to early December) and early spring (January to March), as these periods see fewer tourists and lower demand. Avoiding the summer months and major holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, can also help you find more affordable flights.
Best times to visit Paris to avoid the crowds
The best times to visit Paris to avoid crowds are during the shoulder seasons of late fall (November to early December) and early spring (January to March). During these months, the city experiences fewer tourists, allowing you to explore iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame with minimal waiting times. The weather can be a bit cooler and unpredictable, but Paris’s charm shines through with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, these off-peak times often come with lower hotel rates and more availability, making it a great time to enjoy the city’s sights without the usual hustle and bustle.
Getting around Paris
Getting around Paris is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. The city’s extensive metro network, consisting of 16 lines, is the most convenient and affordable way to travel across Paris, with stations scattered throughout the city. Buses and trams complement the metro system, providing access to areas that may not be directly served by the underground. For a more scenic route, consider taking a boat along the Seine with the Batobus service, which stops at several popular attractions. Taxis and rideshare options like Uber are readily available, though they can be more expensive, especially during peak hours. For those who enjoy walking, many of Paris’s key attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a delightful city to explore on foot. Additionally, bike rentals are a popular and eco-friendly option, with numerous stations across the city for easy access.
I’ve written about this previously, but I’m a big fan of taking a Hop-on Hop-off bus when I arrive in a new city to learn my way around.
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Tell me about your dream cooking experience in Paris in the comments below!