Is there anything more iconic than a springtime escape to Paris? I just got back from a four-day trip with my mum (12–15 May 2025), and this was one for the books. Think: fluffy omelettes, rooftop views, photo fails, perfect pastries, and the occasional pot of pudding (or, as we called it… well, you’ll see). If you’re planning a Paris girls’ trip – or even just daydreaming – here’s our itinerary, real talk, and honest tips. As you know, I do adore an Instagrammable moment, so there’s a few along the way. But our goal was shopping, strolling and snacking rather than content on this trip! Let’s go…

Where We Stayed: Yllen Hotel

We stayed at Yllen Hotel, a modern, boutique-style stay in the 15th arrondissement. It’s a quieter area near the Eiffel Tower, with metro access nearby. It had A/C (a must), a small fridge (also key for snacks), and everything we needed for a comfy three-night stay.

If I’m honest, while the location was peaceful, it did mean 30-minute journeys across the city by metro in the evenings. If nightlife or rooftop bars are on your agenda, you might prefer staying somewhere like the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

It is also a great place to stay if you’d planning a trip to Versailles (I went a few years ago so read my advice here) as the train station is close.

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Day 1: Arrival & Eiffel Tower Sparkles

We arrived bright and early on the Eurostar and hit the ground running in jeans and travel day tops (mistake number one – we felt like gremlins by lunchtime). But nothing a Parisian omelette at Café Basile and a bit of shopping couldn’t fix.

We browsed Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, had a hilariously unimpressive lunch from Cojean, and laughed far too much taking photos (mum is still in Instagram training!).

After checking in, we grabbed a mozzarella sandwich and strawberries from Pain O Rama

Then walked to the Eiffel Tower. It sparkled at 10PM, and yes, we got the mugs and the chocolate to prove it.

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Day 2: Bon Marché, Bedroom Picnics & Concorde

After a lazy breakfast at the hotel (we nicknamed it “Lazy Dollie’s”), we were off to Bon Marché in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Their Café Babylone is lovely (even if the €28 salad was a bit much), and the Epicerie was a foodie dream – next time I’m bringing a shopping list.

Later that evening, we walked from Place de la Concorde through the Tuileries and along the Seine. Perfect lighting, perfect breeze. We were back at the hotel by 10PM for our now-traditional “pot of pudding” in bed.

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Day 3: Montmartre Madness & Rooftop Bliss

By Wednesday, Paris was HOT. We wore our dresses, carried cardigans all day, and finally tackled Montmartre via Abbesses Station. It was lovely but so busy by 11AM – I’d suggest going early or later in the day. We took the little tourist train (€12 each) up to the Sacré-Cœur – very touristy, but worth it on a hot day.

Shopping highlight? Chocolate from Maison Georges Larnicol – the truffle balls and galettes were divine.

For lunch, we hit the jackpot at BHV Marais, where Les Tables Perchées on the rooftop delivered the goods: aubergine and ricotta salad, chilled tea, and dreamy views. It was chic, peaceful, and full of stylish Parisians journaling and lunching solo. Very Emily in Paris, but without the chaos.

That evening? A full-on feast at Paris Beaubourg – pizza, salad, wine, the works. Happy, sun-kissed and full.

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Day 4: Jardin du Luxembourg and Au Revoir

We had one last breakfast, left our bags at the hotel, and headed to Jardin du Luxembourg. But by then it was freezing, windy, and packed with students – not the dreamy garden moment I’d imagined. So we returned to the hotel to collect our bags, stopped at Paul for sandwiches, and made our way back to Gare du Nord for the train.

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Practical Paris Tips (From Someone Who Overpacked)

• Weather is chaos – bring options! We packed for sunshine and got clouds, wind, and everything in between.

• Footwear is crucial – I only brought one pair of trainers. Rookie error.

• Sandals? Yes. Heels? No.

• Metro is €2.50 per ride, or get the Navigo pass and top it up Oyster-style.

• Air conditioning and a fridge are essential for warm weather.

• Bring your tea bags if you’re a creature of habit.

• Skip Jardin du Luxembourg unless it’s warm – too crowded and cold otherwise.

• Do your shopping early – most boutiques and bakeries close by 7–8PM.

• Tax-free shopping: Use your passport (digital passport on your phone seems to be fine), fill in forms in store, and use the station kiosk before departure – very quick.

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More Paris Favourites from Previous Trips

I didn’t make it to all my favourite spots this time (you can’t do Paris in just four days — trust me), but here are a few gems I absolutely adore from previous visits:

• Samaritaine – This is hands down one of my favourite department stores in Paris. Think art deco meets luxury, rooftop views and the kind of architectural details that make your jaw drop. A must-visit for next time.

• Colonnes de Buren at Palais-Royal – You know those iconic black and white striped columns? They’re tucked behind the Louvre and perfect for a quick photo stop if you’re heading from Place de la Concorde. How did we miss this?! Adding it to the list for next time.

• Staying in the Marais – Last time I stayed in the Marais and it was so central, stylish and walkable. If you’re planning a future girls’ trip, it’s a fabulous area — chic cafés, cute shops, and plenty of charm.

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Final Thoughts

Paris in spring is chaos and beauty all at once. It’s overpriced salads, breathtaking rooftops, and laughing so hard with your mum you forget the pain of a 30-minute metro. Would I go again? Absolutely. Would I pack differently? Without a doubt.

Whether you’re planning your first girls’ trip or looking for a fresh itinerary, I hope this gives you some inspo.

À bientôt, Paris x