The Ultimate Luxury Guide to Paris: Where to Stay, Dine, and Explore in Style
Paris is always a good idea, but planning a luxury trip? That’s an exceptional idea. There’s a certain magic that unfolds when you pair this legendary city with impeccable accommodations, seamless transportation, exclusive experiences, and elevated dining. I recently had the privilege of curating just that—a trip to Paris so thoughtfully designed and effortlessly chic that it remains one of the most unforgettable travel experiences I’ve ever had.
This guide isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about savoring. From choosing the right hotel to insider tips on how to pack, get around, and dine well, here’s how to make your next Paris vacation not just memorable, but luxurious in every sense.
Where to Stay: Villa Marquis by The Meliá Collection
Nestled in the heart of Paris’s exclusive 8th Arrondissement, Villa Marquis blends historical character with contemporary elegance. Formerly the residence of the Hurault de Vibraye dynasty, this boutique hotel is just steps from Avenue Montaigne, the Champs-Élysées, and the Eiffel Tower.
I stayed in a Deluxe Extra Room with street views—waking up to the buzz of Paris below became a daily highlight. The concierge team helped design a bespoke itinerary that included a private vintage car tour and restaurant reservations. One charming touch? The hotel gifted me an exclusive pajama set designed by Monsieur Parra.
Read about our experience below:
Pack Smart: Veken Packing Cubes
Let’s talk about something most luxury travel guides skip: packing. For a trip that included dinners at Pink Mamma and day trips to Versailles, I had a lineup of looks to manage. Enter Veken packing cubes.
These small-but-mighty organizers transformed my suitcase. Instead of rummaging through layers of outfits, I had categories: daywear, dinner looks, accessories, even cubes for outerwear. Their structured design helps maintain the integrity of your clothes (think: no more wrinkled silk) while saving space. If you're switching hotels or just hate unpacking, these are essential.
Packing cubes may not seem glamorous, but trust me, they’re the behind-the-scenes hero of stress-free luxury travel.
Travel Like a Local (But Better): Blacklane
Getting around Paris can be a dream or a logistical nightmare, depending on how you plan it. I opted for Blacklane, and it was a game-changer.
The service feels like the private jet version of car transport. Upon arrival at CDG, a Blacklane chauffeur greeted me at baggage claim, handled my luggage, and escorted me to a sleek black vehicle stocked with water and phone chargers. It set the tone for the entire trip.
Their app is intuitive and allows you to schedule pickups, track flights, and make last-minute adjustments. I used Blacklane for everything: airport transfers, dinner drop-offs, even a day trip to Versailles. It offers the comfort and discretion of private transport with the flexibility and convenience of ride-share apps.
In a city like Paris, where every moment feels cinematic, having reliable, elegant transportation allows you to stay in the moment—and arrive in style.
Where to Dine: Elevated Eats & Brasseries
Parisian dining is an art form, and navigating it requires a well-edited list. During my trip, I prioritized a mix of iconic institutions and buzzy hotspots—each one worth dressing up for.
Giraffe
With uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower, Giraffe delivers the kind of ambiance that makes you fall in love with Paris all over again. Ideal for a sunset dinner or celebratory champagne.
Chez André
A classic brasserie that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Parisian postcard. The steak-frites? Perfection.
Gigi Paris
Equal parts glam and cozy, Gigi offers an Italian-leaning menu and interiors that belong in a design magazine. Book well in advance.
Pink Mamma
The truffle pasta here might just be the best thing you’ll ever eat. Lush interiors, fun energy, and top-tier cocktails round out the experience.
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
No menu, no problem. Steak, fries, and the restaurant’s famed secret sauce make this one of Paris’ most dependable indulgences.
The Must-Do Experiences: Culture With a Side of Chic
While Paris needs no introduction, how you experience it can redefine your entire trip. Here are some of the standout moments I can’t stop thinking about:
Private Car Tour with La Petite Frenchie
My hotel arranged this two-hour tour in a vintage car, complete with a charming guide who whisked us through the city’s highlights. We stopped for photos in front of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, and even ventured into lesser-known neighborhoods that offered a taste of local life. The experience felt like a film come to life.
Disneyland Paris
It’s not just for kids. The park’s elevated food offerings, seasonal decor, and seamless transit options make it a magical day trip from the city. Perfect if you're looking to add whimsy to your itinerary.
Seine River Cruise
Cruising along the Seine at sunset is one of those quintessential Paris experiences. Glide past Notre Dame, the Louvre, and under the city’s historic bridges as the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance.
Shopping in Style
Paris is the fashion capital for a reason. Spend an afternoon browsing Avenue Montaigne’s designer boutiques or uncover unique finds at Le Bon Marché and Galeries Lafayette. Pro tip: many shops offer international tax refunds on high-end purchases.
Sparkling Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower sparkles every hour on the hour after sunset. Find a cozy viewing spot nearby or plan dinner at a restaurant with a view. It never gets old.
Inside Notre-Dame
Following years of restoration, Notre-Dame Cathedral has reopened to visitors. Going inside this Gothic masterpiece is a spiritual and architectural marvel.
Palace of Versailles
A short drive from Paris, Versailles is opulence on steroids. Touring the Hall of Mirrors, strolling through the gardens, and having lunch at Angelina on-site made for a decadent day trip. Pro tip: go early and book your tickets online to skip the crowds.
Moulin Rouge at 11PM
Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also iconic. The late-night show is pure Parisian spectacle, best enjoyed after a pre-show dinner at Pink Mamma.
Final Thoughts: The Art of Curated Travel
What makes a luxury vacation truly special isn’t just where you stay or what you eat—it’s how well it’s all orchestrated. From the efficiency of Veken packing cubes to the elegance of Blacklane transfers and the thoughtful service at Villa Marquis, this trip was a masterclass in intentional travel.
Paris has endless possibilities, but when you approach it with a discerning eye and a few inside tips, the city opens itself to you in ways that are more meaningful, more indulgent, and far more memorable.
Plan well, live beautifully—and let Paris do the rest.