Hello, fellow travelers!

With every visit to Paris, I discover more and more to love about this city. Living here—and especially renting an apartment long-term—has given me a genuine sense of life here, something tourists often miss. So let me take you along on my latest trip and share the hidden gems that always make me long to return to this unbeatable city.

But where should you start?

I start my day with a walk along the Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque waterway far from the bustling tourist areas. This is where the locals come to relax. I grab a croissant and a café au lait at a local café, enjoying the peace and quiet before the day begins.

What about the history? Well, the Canal Saint-Martin, located in the 10th arr, is an oasis of calm amid the hustle and bustle of the city. By the way, there are great deals on long-term apartment rentals in Paris here. This nearly 5-kilometer-long canal, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte over two hundred years ago, is a haven for locals—and a hidden gem for tourists.

The canal stretches from the Seine River at Place de la Bastille to the Bassin de la Villette, where it connects to the Canal de l’Ourcq. Its green embankments, iron bridges, and locks create a unique and picturesque setting.

A stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin is full of surprises. Surrounded by old trees and historic buildings, you can watch boats passing through the old locks, locals sitting on the quay with their picnic baskets, and even swans gliding along the water. On warmer days, it’s a delight to sit and watch the sunset as the light reflects off the water.

The area around the canal has a relaxed and artistic atmosphere, with plenty of cozy cafés, trendy shops, and galleries. A popular spot for morning coffee and croissants is “Ten Belles,” known for its locally roasted coffee. For those with a bigger appetite, “Du Pain et des Idées” is an irresistible bakery serving fantastic pastries and bread.

In the evening, Canal Saint-Martin becomes a popular gathering spot, with people enjoying dinner at restaurants like “Chez Prune” or bringing their own picnics to enjoy along the canal. It’s definitely worth exploring—you seriously won’t regret it!

There are plenty of hidden gems right under your nose

From there, I head to the nearby neighborhood of Belleville (where I rented an apartment on this trip), known for its artists’ studios and stunning views of the city. Here, I find a delightful mix of cultures and cuisines, making it an exciting place to explore.

Belleville, located in the 20th arr, is a unique melting pot of cultures and is particularly known for its vibrant art scenes. Once home to Edith Piaf and later a popular haunt for artists, Belleville’s bohemian spirit lives on today. The streets are filled with colorful murals and graffiti that showcase the local artistic culture.

Belleville Park, Parc de Belleville, is one of the highest points in the city and offers a panoramic view of Paris that rivals any vista from the Eiffel Tower or Sacré-Cœur. The park is also home to the Maison de l’Air—a unique outdoor exhibition space designed to raise awareness about air quality.

The area is also home to one of the city’s largest outdoor markets, Belleville Market, where you can buy everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to local cheeses and pastries. It feels as though the whole world has gathered here to offer its culinary delights. By the way, you can rent a long-term apartment right nearby—a tip!

Strolling down a “rue” is an experience

In the evening, I visit Rue Mouffetard, one of the oldest streets in Paris. It’s here that I enjoy a glass of wine and a selection of cheeses at a traditional wine bar, surrounded by the laughter and toasts of the locals.

Rue Mouffetard, often called “La Mouffe,” is one of the oldest and most atmospheric streets in Paris. Located in the Latin Quarter of the 5th arr, this cobblestone street is known for its lively market, charming bistros, traditional wine bars, and artisanal bakeries.

A stroll down this street is a journey back in time, with every house and shop telling its own story. From the colorful fruit and vegetable stands to the small cheese shops that fill the air with their rich aromas, every step is a feast for the senses.

In the evening, Rue Mouffetard transforms into a lively social hub. Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine or a pint of traditional French beer at one of the cozy wine bars or pubs. My personal favorite is “La Maison des Andes,” which offers a wide selection of natural wines and delicious tapas. I’m already longing to go back!

The days just slip by like this, with new discoveries and adventures around every corner. And you know what? I’m grateful for every moment I get to spend here. Because it’s in these moments, away from the tourist traps and famous landmarks, that I truly feel the pulse of the real Paris.

This brings me to the French proverb, “Vivre comme un coq en pâte,” which literally translates to “living like a rooster in dough.” It’s used to describe someone who lives a comfortable and enjoyable life. And that’s exactly how I feel living in Paris. I truly am a “rooster in the dough,” living my best life and enjoying every second of it.

By the way, did you know there are more than 1,800 bakeries in the city? Or that there are more dogs in the city than children? And the most surprising thing of all—there’s only one stop sign in all of central Paris!

Paris is truly a city that never ceases to surprise and fascinate, even for someone like me who rents an apartment there long-term—and often! I hope my tips and stories have given you a glimpse into why I believe renting an apartment and truly living in Paris is the best way to experience the city.

Au revoir, and until next time—safe travels!