Le Marais is one of the oldest districts of Paris and by far my favorite. Characteristically constructed of meandering narrow streets, it holds some of oldest buildings in the City of Lights. Today it is filled with art galleries, traditional cafes, trendy hangouts, and cool little boutiques. It is the area that the gay community shares with the Orthodox Jewish population, as well as with the trendy hipster crowd. Quite an eclectic mix and definitely a must see destination while in Paris.
Le Marais (literally the swamp) is to some extent comparable to Soho or TheVillage in New York, it has that unconventional feel, that bohemian chic and a creative vibe, as well as some of the highest rents in Paris, and is referred to as “le village” by its inhabitants.
In this area you’ll notice people chatting away, saying hello to each other, because in the Marais everything is just around the corner, and people tend to know each other well, which adds to the charm and the omnipresent coziness. Things have gotten a bit more commercial and touristy in the recent years, but the vibe is still there.
Many small coffee shops, like les Philosophes, les Chaises au Plafond or les Etages offer that unique Parisian allure, small vintage stores are scattered around the winding streets and are neighbors to the trendiest boutiques in town (Rue des Rosiers). While strolling around you can of course stop at the countless modern art galleries, old bookshops, at the Picasso Museum, the Georges Pompidou Center or at the breath taking and rightfully renowned Place de Vosges built by Henry IV in 1612 - which is probably my very favorite place on earth. It is a district filled with secret hideaways, majestic wooden gates, which when opened reveal magnificent court yards of old and characteristically Parisian Hotels Particuliers. One of the most prestigious dance schools in Paris, Le Centre de Danse du Marais, is located in such a secret courtyard. I spent many a days there dancing tango, flamenco or salsa, or just having a coffee and taking it all in. When you enter through the cobblestone paved entrance you are instantly transported into another world, that of music and arts, and are instantly stunned by the innate charm and the beauty of the architecture. Ralph Rucci, Martin Grant and Trash Couture are only a few designer brands with dazzling showrooms in this area. In terms of shopping, there are countless options. However, if you want to live this experience to the fullest, be sure to let your self get lost among the narrow streets, many hidden treasures await you there. Truly, nothing beats a day in the Marais, between the historic and cultural monuments, the romantic streets perfect for lazy sauntering and great fashion, you’ll not only feel the true pulse of Paris, you’ll be in the heart of its history, its particular beauty, and its true modern French chic. Also, le Marias is best for Sunday brunch!
Place: Artisan Parfumeur
32 rue du Bourg Tibourg, 75004 Paris
Why it’s hot: in true French tradition of perfume, you’ll find here a poetic
individual approach to fragrance making. If you are searching for a personal scent outside of the market trends and exploring new olfactory territories seems appealing to you, then this is a place to be.
They sell: this brand’s own nature-inspired perfumes, house scents and candles in unusual combinations like almond milk, fig, and sandalwood, or in combinations under such names as Mechant Loup (Big Bad Wolf)
Contact: Tel: 01 48 04 72 75
www.artisanparfumeur.com
Place: Antik Batik
18 rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: An elegant yet minimalist boutique, with fabric covered walls, and soft boudoir like couches, that also resemble a Bedouin tent. This brand just keeps growing and expanding since 1992 due to its popularity among the fashion crowd. The original pieces are eclectic, ethnic, chic and modern all at the same time.
They sell: Clothes in silks and cashmere, unique and extraordinary prints inspired from many a travel of the founders
Contact: www.antikbatik.fr
Place: Les Bains du Marais
31-33 rue de s Blancs Manteaux, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: Because at this Oriental Hammam inspired spa you can unwind, recharge your batteries and feel as if you escaped into another world, all without taking a vacation.
They sell: royal treatment at the steam bath, or the sauna, you can unwind with one of the many massages, scrubs, facials, or take care of your nails and hair. The best is just to do it all in one full day of decadence. Just in case the tight schedule between the treatments wears you down, a dim room with velvet couches designed for deep relaxation awaits you. In addition they now sell a luxurious line of beauty products such as creams and body oils with the finest natural ingredients such as jasmine and orange blossom flower.
Contact: Tel: 01 44 61 02 02
www.lesbainsdumarais.com
Place: Autour du Monde
12 rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: Serge Bensimon, the founder created a whole universe, a life style environment for a modern, city dweller that needs products that are practical, understated, as well as creative and appealing. This style is apparent in the furniture as well as in the clothing styles available at his boutiques. Simple lines, spicy colors, and a general Zen atmosphere make up the allure of this store.
They sell: home furnishings with a farm like, rustic look, and objects, such as cashmere quilts and rare print pillows, lamps, candles, and more as well as clothes, and clothing accessories.
Contact: Tel: 01 42 77 16 18
www.autourdumonde.com
Place: Hier pour Demain
4 rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: This antique shop specializes in Art deco furniture, china, lamps and other home objects, but also in Bakelite and Galalit jeweler, from the 20th century
They sell: Antiques as well as Bakelite jewelry (material developed in 1907-09) galalit which has a Retro appeal and has made the objects collectables in recent years
Contact: Tel: 01 42 78 14 29
Place: Les Touristes
17 rue des Blancs Manteaux, 75004 Paris
Why it’s hot: You’ll feel as if you literally stepped into a globetrotter’s trunk case. This tiny boutique is filled up too the ceiling with rare and appealing objects from around the world. Chinese notebooks, perfumes and soaps from the South of France, Persian rugs, Japanese plates, pencils, pins, bibs, dolls, incense, you name it, and they got it. All this is in fabulous bright prints, mismatched colors, rare patters and fabrics, and it makes you gape like a child and want it all!
They sell: The treasures from around the world
Contact: Tel: 01 42 72 10 84
Place: La Perle
78 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: Smoky, loud, crowded, young and hip.
Perfect for an afternoon cafe and an evening kir, if you don't mind the crowd
They sell: coffee and drinks
Place: Comptoir de l’Image
44 rue de Sevigne, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: The history of fashion, photography and image is at your fingertips.
This tiny shop is stocked up with books, albums and magazines old and new, all relating to image. If you are interested in depictions of our modern world, or the history of style, there is no better place than this.
They sell: Books, magazines, photo albums, and newspapers.
Contact: Tel: 01 42 72 03 92
Place: Le Progres
19 rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: This bar -tabac at the corner of rue de Bretagne and rue Vieille du Temple can go unnoticed but the terrace is in fact one of the hot spots in the trendy Marais. This, and La Perle are the places to be for an evening drink.
They sell: coffe, cigarettes and drinks
Place: Sandro
50 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: The looks are pretty and trendy; Some may find it a bit pretentious, but the cuts are sharp, colors timely, and lines always of the moment. If you are always in line with the newest trends, don’t miss this address.
They sell: ready to wear and bags for women.
Contact: Tel: 01 44 59 69 23
Place: La Chaise au Plafond
10 rue du Tresor, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: classically furnished with wooden benches and tables, this French bistro/brasserie is great for classics such as tarte tatin, steak tartare or just an afternoon coffee. It's amazing for both lunch and dinner and is very affordable.
They sell: food, coffee, and drinks.
Place: Abou d’Abi Bazar
10 rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: Just the right mix of hippy chic, casual wear and modern elegance. It is the right place for a woman of any style and age. The prices range too, which makes this place popular among students as well as working women.
They sell: Little sweaters, trendy coats, dresses, bags, leather belts sequin imbedded shirts and jeans for any fashion lover.
Contact: Tel: 01 42 77 96 98
www.aboudabibazar.com
Place: Palais des Thes
64 rue Vieille du temple, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: tea nicely packed into candy colored cans, or adorable bags, in a small irresistible shop named the Tea Palace, you will find an embarrassing choice of infusions to please your palette. These luxury teas are a bit pricey but you can buy in small quantities for degustation.
They sell: more then 200 teas are available, red, white, greet, black, blended and flavored teas, as well as all the accessories you may ever need to make and serve it with style
Contact: www.palaisdesthes.com
Place: Jamin Puech
68 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: This designing couple, hand make bags so hot and original that they have become a sort of a reference to this prestigious accessory in Paris. Every one wants a Jamin Puech bag, because they are hand made from raw materials such as leather and raffia, because they come in all shapes and sizes, in the most unbelievable color combinations, and imaginative fabrics and prints. Having one of those marvels is like having a precious jewel. Everyone will notice, so if you like getting attention, these are bags made just for you!
They sell: Bags, the bags!
Contact: Tel: 01 48 87 84 87
www.jamin-puech.com
Place: Fiesta Galerie
45 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris
Why it’s hot: Most outrageous, creative, kitch and fabulous objects, art pieces and furniture from 1940’s to the 70’s. A true paradise for collectors of vintage furniture.
They sell: Funky orange furniture, disco balls, singing Elvi (I assume that’s plural for Elvis), Marilyn figurines, amazing lamps, rugs, tables and chairs each more unique then the other, collectable items from times past.
Contact: Tel: 01 42 71 53 34
www.fiesta-galerie.fr
