Paris the ultimate weekend guide

Get the best out of Paris with a stay at Pullman hotels. The esteemed chain host two central Parisian locations—the Bercy hotel in the City Centre, and the Eiffel Tower hotel (above), with stunning views of the iconic landmark.

Both are well equipped with a variety of perks to make your stay as easy as possible—online check-in, 24-hour reception and babysitting upon request.

Treat yourself to a superior room for an indulgent stay at a competitive price. The friendly, multi-lingual staff will be more than happy to assist.

And if you're looking for a truly indulgent stay, why not sample the brand new Hammam spa and swimming pool at the Bercy hotel (pictured above)?

A pastel-hued, calming environment, Peonies (above) is as pretty as its name suggests. Part café, part boutique working space, peruse independent magazines over a matcha latte or try a light breakfast of coconut bread and freshly-made granola.

In its iconic spot in the Trocadero square, Carette is said to offer the most exquisite pastries in the city. Dine al fresco on delicate petit fours and croque madame, taking in the chic style of passers-by as they go about their daily lives.

An evening meal should undoubtedly be spent at Boutary, which blends the contemporary art of Ann Grim with the eclectic vision of Japanese-Korean chef Jay Wook Hur. A showcase of innovative French cuisine, enjoy fennel-marinated salmon, buttered ham or a tasting platter of caviar, specially selected according to the season.

Read more: 7 Secret romantic spots in Paris

Paris is a city that loves to shop, valuing well-made, high-end designers in their "simple, but classic" approach to fashion. Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann is something out of every shopaholic’s dreams—an amphitheatre of covetable brands such as Acne, Givenchy and Chanel.

Should you crave an even more special Chanel experience, the flagship store is situated nearby at rue Cambon, a whopping five-story space knitted together through three buildings of a former 17th-century convent.

If you prefer your souvenirs edible, be sure to visit Laduree. With various locations dotted around the city, their delicate macarons are classic Paris, elegantly wrapped in their iconic, pretty packaging.

Read more: A cinematic tour of Paris

The worlds largest art museum and a historic monument in its own right, it doesn’t come much more impressive than The Louvre. Housing an estimated 38,000 artefacts, you’ll need to clear a full day to tour it properly, taking in works that span from the 12^th century through to the present day.

Museum Rodin continues the journey of artistic education, dedicated to French sculptor Auguste Rodin, who is considered one of the forbearers of modern design. The gardens that surround it are equally inspiring, perfect for photographic backdrops.

Read more: The art of Parisian people watching

Embrace the romance of the city with a River Tour along the Seine. With various cruises available, be sure to do your research to find the one which is best for you—the Batobus is great to hop on and off, whereas Bateaux Mouches offer meal cruises that allow you to dine in style.

Continue date night with a romantic evening stroll around the Arc de Triomphe. Commissioned by Napoleon, it’s stood strong through centuries, with exquisite details carefully restored and maintained. Naturall,y this area can be very popular with tourists, but there is an abundance of nearby wineries in which to wait for the perfect moment.

For those who wish to temporarily escape the city, a day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel will reveal stunning views of the reclusive island, home to a monastery commune. Plan your visit with the tide to ensure the best views across the bridge.