On a stroll in Paris

The ever-so-chic Hana Lê Van, a.k.a. @journeyintolavillelumiere, shares lovely snaps from her Parisian lifestyle with her hubby and baby girl Livia. Here she shows us her top kid-friendly spots and tips when visiting the city of lights. Even if you can’t travel right now, allow yourself to dream and save this piece of inspiration for when you can travel again.


When is the best time of the year to visit Paris?

Paris in springtime is simply wonderful – the temperature in May is warm, and you can have picnics outside in the grass. The days are longer, and the sun sets after 9 pm so you can spend your days outdoors if you’d like, especially on weekends.


Tell us your top stroller-friendly dining spots?

Parisians love dining outdoors, which makes many places stroller friendly. There are restaurants with outdoor seating in nearly every corner, and I get the feeling that more and more of them offer high chairs these days.


Breakfast

For breakfast, I’d go to Carette Place des Vosges, a typical Parisian restaurant with friendly service and a park just across the street to enjoy afterwards. Lunch hour here is pretty busy so breakfast would be my tip.


Lunch

Lunch would be at Le Nemours on their huge outdoor terrace in the heart of Paris. On your left, you’ll have the Musee du Louvre, and on your right, my favourite little garden Jardin du Palais Royal where you can go for a stroll after lunch.


Dinner

Dinner time in Paris is from 8 pm onwards. During the warmer months, dining on an outdoor terrace is the easiest option. I love Le Relais de L’entrecote on rue Saint-Benoit, the atmosphere is quite loud, so that’s either a good or bad thing depending on the age of your children. Also, the menu is very limited with steak and fries but absolutely worth the hype! Otherwise, I’d go to Les Deux Magots, again such a French classic in the heart of Saint Germain des Pres.


Which is your favourite park in Paris?

It would have to be Jardin du Palais Royal – it’s fun for all ages. Your little one can jump around amongst the famous black and white columns (which is also a popular spot for photographers). A big plus is that this garden is dog friendly, which is great since not many parks allow dogs. At the end of the park is a lovely sandpit where we love to go and sip on a takeaway coffee from Café Kitsuné while Livia is playing with other children. It’s truly a wonderful place.


Where do you go shopping?

You can find plenty of great brands in the Smallable Family Concept Store. Galeries Lafayette has just been completely renovated and houses all brands imaginable!

Follow Hana on her Instagram account @journeyintolavillelumiere to get more inspiration!