How to Travel Like a Local and Embrace the Spring Parisian Lifestyle

Spring in a wonderful season to explore Paris. Glorious sunshine, trees blossoming and slightly less busy than the peak summer months. We have curated a blog tailored to those who wish to explore the city less like a tourist and more like a local. We have included a little bit of everything, from the best bakeries, cafes and bars to achieving the chic Parisian street style. Here are our 5 tips on how to embrace the city like a local!

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Parisian Shopping & Spring Street Style 

A city known as the fashion capital of the world is also leading the way to a more sustainable and ethical approach to fashion. The Parisians’ love for timeless style perfectly aligns with the growing movement towards ethical shopping, recycling, and vintage fashion. If you want to embrace the Parisians effortlessly chic (and eco-conscious) style, heres how to do so:

Explore the best vintage stores 

Paris is full of amazing vintage stores and is the perfect palace to discover some incredible finds. They are like treasure troves and there's nothing more thrilling than coming away with some special pieces and knowing that they are one of a kind! Plus you are also helping to reduce waste and giving something a second life!  

• Free’P’Star

Located in the Marais district, Free’P’Star is known for its affordable and eclectic vintage collection. The store is a favourite among locals for its great deals and vast selection.

Address: 61 Rue de la Verrerie, 75004 Paris.

• Vintage Désir

For those on a budget, Vintage Désir is a Parisian gem offering trendy and affordable vintage clothing. The store is known for its well-organised racks and great selection.

Address: 32 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris (Le Marais).

• Kilo Shop

A must-visit for vintage enthusiasts, Kilo Shop lets you buy clothes by weight, making it a fun and budget-friendly option. The store offers a wide range of styles—from casual wear to more glamorous pieces.

Locations: Le Marais, South Pigalle, and more.

• Hippy Market

For those who love boho and hippie-inspired vintage clothing, Hippy Market is a must-visit. It offers a mix of vintage and bohemian styles with a great selection of clothes and accessories.

Address: 34 Boulevard de Rochechouart, 75009 Paris.

Flea Markets

Flea markets are popular with the locals and help to promote sustainable shopping. Here are some that are recommended by Parisians:

• Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: The largest flea market in Paris, with vendors selling vintage clothing, accessories, and more.

• Marché aux Puces de Vanves: A smaller, more local market with great vintage clothing and handmade items.

• Marché d’Aligre: Combines food and fashion markets, where you can find second-hand clothes alongside fresh produce.

Minimalism 

Minimalism in Parisian style perfectly matches the practical needs of backpackers. Effortlessly chic, quality over quantity, functional, and timeless. Particularly when we are travelling we have to be mindful of what we pack but minimalism is also a great approach to fashion in general. Parisians love quality over quantity and having items that they know they will rewear time after time rather than constantly accumulating new items. Master the local Parisian look with these top tips: 

• Neutral colours. Stick to classic tones like black, white, grey, navy, beige, and olive. These colours are versatile and easy to mix and match.

• Classic Outerwear: Trench Coat or a Denim Jacket, perfect for layering.

• Minimal Accessories: Simple Jewellery, sunglasses and hat.

• Footwear. Opt for a simple pair of white trainers that can go with any outfit and are also practical for exploring the city. 

Parisian Cafe Culture 

Parisian café culture is an huge part of Parisian life. It is where the locals gather to relax, hangout, work and people watch. Come spring the terraces come alive with the sound of chatter as people enjoy their cup of coffee, pastries or glass of wine.  

Here are a few spots loved by the locals: 

• Café Oberkampf

Location: 3 Rue Neuve Popincourt, 75011 Paris 

A hidden gem in the Oberkampf neighbourhood, this café is a local favourite for its expertly brewed coffee and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to kickstart your day or unwind in the afternoon.

• La Fontaine de Belleville

Location: 31-33 Rue Juliette Dodu, 75010 Paris
This classic Parisian café has a beautiful art deco style and serves excellent coffee. Parisians love it for its charm and the quality of its espresso and café crème.

• KB CaféShop

Location: 53 Avenue Trudaine, 75009 Paris

Known for its artisanal coffee, KB CaféShop is where Parisians go when they need their caffeine fix done right. The baristas here are experts in brewing the perfect cup, making it a top spot for coffee enthusiasts.

• Café Lomi

Location: 3 Ter Rue Marcadet, 75018 Paris

For those who take their coffee seriously, Café Lomi in Montmartre is a must-visit. Locals appreciate its artisanal approach to coffee, with beans roasted on-site and brewed with precision.

• Ten Belles

Location: 10 Rue de la Grange aux Belles, 75010 Paris

Small but mighty, Ten Belles is a local treasure for its excellent coffee and intimate setting. The café is loved for its espresso, homemade baked goods, and warm service.

Walking Routes & Picnics in Paris Parks

Wander along the banks of the Seine river. Stroll through the Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, exploring bookstalls and gorgeous boutiques. As you walk, take a moment to soak in the blossoming trees and the calming riverside atmosphere. The Canal Saint-Martin area is also a favourite among locals for its more bohemian vibe. The tree-lined canal offers peaceful walking paths within the busy city and lots of cafés and shops to enjoy along the route.

It is a Parisian tradition to enjoy picnics in the spring and summer. Grab a fresh french baguette, indulgent cheeses, and wine from the local markets like Marché d'Aligre or Marché des Enfants Rouges and head to Jardin du Luxembourg or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

Buttes-Chaumont, one of Paris’s most scenic parks. Located in the 19th arrondissement has a beautiful temple at the top of the hill along with waterfalls, cliffs and bridges. It is a favourite among the locals for both picnics and leisurely strolls.

Photo Opportunity: Whether you’re aiming for landscape shots, portraits, or candid moments, these beautiful parks and scenic routes offer fantastic photo opportunities and something a little different from the typical tourist photos you see.

Local Bakeries

Parisian bakeries (boulangerie) are the soul of the city, where locals start their mornings with fresh bread and indulgent sweet pastries and treats. While tourists flock to famous spots, Parisians have their own go to bakeries for daily bread, pastries, and more. Here are some bakeries that are loved by locals :

• Du Pain et des Idées

A charming bakery near Canal Saint-Martin, famous for its artisanal bread and pastries. The Pain des Amis is a must-try, along with the escargot pastries filled with pistachio and chocolate or praline.

Address: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris

Note: This is located near St Christopher's Inns Paris Canal 

• Poilâne

Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris

Founded in 1932, Poilâne is one of the oldest and most respected bakeries in Paris. It’s renowned for its traditional sourdough bread and artisanal approach.

• La Parisienne

Location: 48 Rue Madame, 75006 Paris

Winner of the Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Française, La Parisienne is celebrated for its perfectly baked baguettes.

• Blé Sucré

Location: 7 Rue Antoine Vollon, 75012 Paris

A hidden gem in the 12th arrondissement, Blé Sucré is famous for its pastries, especially its madeleines and chouquettes.

• Maison Landemaine

Location: Multiple Locations (e.g., 26 Rue de la Parisienne, 75009 Paris)

Maison Landemaine combines traditional baking with modern techniques, making it a favorite among Parisians who appreciate quality and innovation.

Nightlife

Avoid the tourist traps and experience the Paris nightlife like a local! Here are the top 5 bars where Parisians love to hang out:

• Le Mary Celeste

Location: 1 Rue Commines, 75003 Paris

A hotspot in Le Marais, Le Mary Celeste is famous for its inventive cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Parisians flock here for expertly mixed drinks and delicious small plates.

BOOK A TABLE

• Le Perchoir

Location: 14 Rue Crespin du Gast, 75011 Paris

For stunning views and expertly crafted drinks, Le Perchoir is a favourite rooftop bar among locals. It’s perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail with a panoramic view of Paris.

BOOK A TABLE

• La Fine Mousse

Location: 6 Avenue Jean Aicard, 75011 Paris

A must-visit for beer lovers, La Fine Mousse specialises in craft beers and offers a great selection of French and international brews. The bar pairs its beers with tasty food options.

FIND OUT MORE HERE

• Le Syndicat

Location: 51 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris

A trendy bar focusing on French spirits, Le Syndicat is where Parisians go for bold, innovative cocktails. The industrial décor and expert mixology make it a must-visit.

BOOK A TABLE

• Candelaria

Location: 52 Rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris

Hidden behind a taco shop, Candelaria is a speakeasy-style bar loved for its intimate atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. It’s a true Parisian gem.

FIND OUT MORE HERE

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