With Sam Bhandari | Trips With Sam
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Day 1 in Paris :
Morning – Arrival & Check-In at The Westin Paris – Vendôme
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I arrived in Paris from Brussels and took a short taxi ride to The Westin Paris – Vendôme, perfectly located between Tuileries Garden and Place Vendôme in the 1st Arrondissement. The hotel’s elegant façade and the warm atmosphere made me feel instantly at home. My room had a soft view of the Eiffel Tower — a magical start to my Paris stay.
Quick Tip: If you arrive by train, taxis are easy to find at the station exits. Just mention your destination politely in French — “Place Vendôme, s’il vous plaît.”
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Afternoon – Parisian Streets, Cafés & Shopping
After settling in, I began exploring the nearby streets of Rue Saint-Honoré and Rue de Rivoli, home to luxury boutiques and the best window shopping in the world. A quick stop at Place Vendôme offered a glimpse into Paris’s high-end fashion world, where every store looks like art.
I stopped for a coffee at Café Kitsuné, hidden near Palais Royal — a peaceful little spot surrounded by trees and charm.
Optional Stops:
• Louvre Museum (1st Arrondissement) – Even walking through the courtyard feels iconic.
• Les Halles (1st Arrondissement) – Perfect for a casual shopping stroll.
• Galeries Lafayette (9th Arrondissement) – Famous for its glass dome and terrace views.
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Evening – Sunset Drinks & Dinner
As evening arrived, I stopped by Mandarin Oriental Paris for drinks — the perfect way to unwind and watch the golden light fade over the city.
Dinner was at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement) — a lively Parisian spot known for its classic steak and fries. The place was full of chatter, laughter, and that unmistakable French charm.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to skip the queue; this restaurant is loved by locals and travelers alike.
After dinner, I took a short walk along the Seine River, passing Pont Neuf, where the shimmering reflections on the water made for the perfect end to my first day in Paris.
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Where I Stayed
Hotel: The Westin – Vendôme
Location: 1st Arrondissement
Highlights: Eiffel Tower views, central location, classic Parisian interiors
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Hidden Gems of Day 1
• Café Kitsuné – Minimalist café with great matcha and coffee.
• Rue Saint-Honoré Corners – Designer boutiques and hidden perfume shops.
• Tuileries Garden View – Perfect spot for evening walks.
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Transport Tips:
• Taxis and Ubers are easiest for short city rides.
• Most main attractions are walkable from the 1st and 2nd Arrondissements.
• Metro lines 1 and 7 are nearby for quick city access.
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Safety Tips:
• Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Keep valuables zipped and avoid dark alleys at night.
• Learn a few French basics — “Bonjour,” “Merci,” “S’il vous plaît.”
Plan Your Full French Getaway
You can download all our multi-city French itineraries directly from the France section on our Trips page. Each itinerary includes hidden gems, cafés, shopping spots, arrondissement maps, transport tips, and safety advice—perfect for planning your dream French vacation!
