Paris invites each visitor on a voyage of exploration, whether that means enjoying fine food, exploring the city’s boutiques or just watching the world go by

Whether returning to Paris after many years or visiting for the first time, it’s hard to imagine walking its tree-lined streets or dappled riverbanks without getting swept up in the air of romance that blankets the French capital. Stepping off the plane, it’s almost as if someone whispers in your ear, "express yourself, be free to live, love and eat". Welcome to Paris.

We always start any visit to the city with a visit to one of our favourite districts, Montmartre. Once Paris’ answer to New York’s Village, its not what it used to be – most of the artists have left; their studios now converted into enormous (and expensive lofts), but the district still has its charms. It’s shamefully touristy, but climbing the hill to the beautiful Basilica of the Sacré Coeur is really worth the trouble. Not only is the building stunning, with its gleaming white domes and columns, but the view of the city from here is breathtaking. It’s also a great spot to get your bearings.

Walking back down through the cobbled streets of Montmartre, steer clear of the touristy shops and over-priced cafés and explore some of the quieter side streets. You’ll stumble across some gorgeous old architecture, surprising little squares stocked with boutiques and quirky eateries. Keep a look out for the plaques on the buildings as well – names like Picasso, Hemingway, Vlamenck, Derain, Soutine, Modigliani and Van Gogh will pop up as all of them once called these ramshackle buildings home.

Take the Metro back to the centre of town and jump out at Concorde or Musée du Louvre. The journey on the Metro is all part of the fun of travelling around Paris, and we particularly love the rickety old carriages you get on some of the older lines. A word of caution though: do keep your hands in your pockets and a firm grasp on your valuables, as this is pickpocket heaven.

Concorde station is at the centre of all things touristy in Paris, with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Champs Elysees, Notre Dame and the bustling banks of the Seine all just a short walk away. Make sure you plan your visit to the Louvre and pinpoint those works of art you want to see before you go, and wear comfortable shoes – it’s HUGE, and you could easily lose an entire day wandering its many halls. Our favourites and mustn’t miss masterpieces are Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Canova’s statue of Cupid and Psyche. Sadly, if Da Vinci is top of your list then you may have to queue for a glimpse during busy periods, so bear that in mind.

If the weather is nice, grab a crêpe from one of the street carts, take a seat on a bench and just watch the world go by. The streets of Paris are always packed with tourists, but mingling amongst them are glamorous Parisians, students and a wealth of expatriate residents who make up the city’s melting pot. There’s always something going on. That’s Paris.

In need of refreshment? We’d recommend staying clear of the cafés and restaurants on the main thoroughfares as you will pay over the odds for the most simple dishes. Instead, wander down one of the many side streets and let your nose do the searching.

One touristy hotspot you shouldn’t miss though is Café Angelina’s – a famous patisserie just opposite the Louvre. It’s not so much that the café itself is famous, it’s the little cups of chocolate heaven that are served inside that see patrons queuing down the street.

Think melted chocolate and rich whipped cream and you’ll have some idea of the ephemeral creation that has entered Angelina’s into the history books.

If you can move after finishing a cup of Angelina’s hot chocolate them a wander around the breathtaking alcoves of Notre Dame is a must when you visit Paris. On its own little island in the centre of the Seine, this incredible cathedral is as appealing to architecture buffs as it is to those who love its fantastical history and tales of bell-ringing hunchbacks. Again, take a pew in the square outside and watch the street performers, caricature artists and vendors amuse the hordes of tourists.

People watching is something of a sport in Paris and you should allocate a large proportion of each day of your trip to finding a street café, taking a seat and enjoying watching the activity that goes on around you.

Want to get involved and explore more of the city on foot? Then pop a few euros in one of the many bike hire machines around central Paris and set out on a journey of your own. There are plenty of useful route maps available from those same stands or the local tourism information centres dotted around the city. Just beware of the Parisian drivers!

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Hotel le Bellechasse
Styled by Christian Lacroix, Hôtel le Bellechasse has all the flamboyance of a Moulin Rouge showgirl, its bold boudoirs are awash with colour. Rooms are designed around seven themes, including Avengers, Patchwork and Quai d’Orsay, with murals, stripes and tactile textures. The Left Bank location means there are plenty of restaurants nearby.
Mustn’t miss: The wallpaper, designed by Christian Lacroix – look out for butterflies, trees, astrological motifs, geometric patterns and Victorian gentlemen sporting top hats.

Where to stay?

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

Mandarin Oriental, Paris is situated on one of the most fashionable streets in the world, Rue Saint-Honoré, surrounded by haute couture and steps from the Louvre. Interiors combine natural elements with oriental influences.
Mustn’t miss: The hotel’s dining experience by Thierry Marx at Ser Mesure

Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg

Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg is situated in the heart of one of the most fashionable districts of Paris. With guest rooms and suites designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon the hotel oozes elegance and is just few steps from the mythical Champs-Elysées Avenue, the Madeleine Church, the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre museum.
Mustn’t miss: A visit to the hotel’s luxury spa featuring a sauna and Hammam, steam showers and a massage area

Radisson Blu Ambassador

Set in the Opera Quarter, just two blocks away from Galeries Lafayette, the Radisson Blu Ambassador overlooks Boulevard Haussmann. All guest rooms and suites were fully redecorated in 2010 and come furnished with amenities such as free high-speed, wireless internet access.
Mustn’t miss: An aperitif in Bar Lindbergh

InterContinental Paris Le Grand

InterContinental Paris Le Grand is a historic monument and is home to Café de la Paix, a Parisian institution adored by locals and visitors. Located amongst the vibrant shopping and theatre districts of Paris, the hotel is close to Opera Garnier, Place Vendome and the Louvre.
Mustn’t miss: A visit to the Club Lounge, which has stunning views over the roof of the Opera house