Hello there, fellow travelers!

With every trip to Paris, my love for this wonderful city grows deeper. Staying in an apartment for an extended period gives me an authentic experience of Paris—something tourists rarely get the chance to explore. So join me on my latest trip and let me share the hidden gems that always make me long to return to this amazing city.

But where should you actually start?

My day begins with a morning walk along the Canal Saint-Martin, a charming waterway located far from the crowded tourist areas. It’s a place where locals gather to relax. I sit down at a local café, order a croissant and a café au lait, and enjoy the peace and quiet before the day gets underway.

Canal Saint-Martin, located in the 10th arr, is a haven amid the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also an excellent place to find long-term rental apartments in Paris. This nearly five-kilometer-long canal, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte over two centuries ago, is a hidden gem that offers locals a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city and a unique, picturesque setting.

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. The green embankments, wrought-iron bridges, and old locks create an idyllic atmosphere.

A stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin is full of surprises. You can see boats gliding slowly through the old locks, locals enjoying picnics along the canal bank, and even swans gliding gracefully on the water. Especially on sunny days, it’s a delight to sit by the water and watch the sun slowly set over the horizon, its rays reflecting on the water.

The area around the canal has a relaxed and artistic vibe, with plenty of cozy cafés, trendy shops, and galleries. If you’re in the mood for coffee and a croissant in the morning, I recommend “Ten Belles,” known for its locally roasted coffee. For those with a bigger appetite, you should visit “Du Pain et des Idées,” a bakery that serves fantastic pastries and bread.

In the evening, Canal Saint-Martin transforms into a popular gathering spot, where people enjoy dinner at restaurants like “Chez Prune” or have picnics along the canal. It’s definitely worth exploring, and you won’t regret it!

There are many hidden treasures waiting for you—just around the corner

From there, my journey continues to the nearby neighborhood of Belleville, where I’ve rented an apartment for this trip. Belleville is known for its artists’ studios and stunning views of the city. Here, you can experience an exciting melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Belleville, located in the 20th arr, is a unique blend of cultures and is particularly known for its vibrant art scene. It was once home to singer Edith Piaf and has since become a popular spot for artists, and it still retains its bohemian spirit. The streets are adorned with colorful murals and graffiti that pay homage to the local art scene.

Belleville Park, Parc de Belleville, is one of the highest points in the city and offers a panoramic view of Paris that rivals the views from the Eiffel Tower or Sacré-Cœur. In the park, you’ll also find the Maison de l’Air, a unique outdoor exhibition space dedicated to raising 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 cheese and baked goods. It feels as though the whole world has gathered here to offer its culinary delights. You can also find long-term rental apartments nearby, so keep that in mind!

Strolling along one of Paris’s picturesque “rues” is an experience in itself.

In the evening, I visit Rue Mouffetard, one of the oldest streets in Paris. Here, 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, sometimes 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 like a journey through time, where every building and shop has its own story to tell. From the colorful fruit and vegetable stands to the small cheese shops that fill the air with their wonderful 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 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!

My days in Paris just flow by like this, filled with new discoveries and adventures around every corner. And you know what? I’m grateful for every moment I get to spend here. It’s in these moments, beyond the tourist traps and well-known sights, 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 describes someone who lives a comfortable and enjoyable life. That’s exactly how I feel when I’m living in Paris. I’m truly a “rooster in the dough,” living my best life and enjoying every moment.

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

Paris really continues to surprise and fascinate me, even after having rented an apartment here for quite some time. I hope my tips and stories have given you a glimpse into why I believe that renting an apartment and truly living in Paris is the best way to experience the city.

Goodbye, and good luck on your next journey!