Designer Clara Blocman has spent most of her life in Paris. She was born and raised there, and has continued to base herself in the City of Light ever since. This is her insider guide to Paris.
“My family is here, most of my closest friends are here, and it’s where I work,” she tells us. “Despite being a capital city, it feels like my village.”
Paris is home to her brand Ysé, which started out with a lingerie focus before moving into ready-to-wear, creating the feminine, timeless wardrobe staples that Parisiennes are famed for – flirty summer dresses, the perfect pair of high-waisted denim shorts and useful basket bags you’ll keep forever. Last summer, Blocman launched the label’s first London store on King’s Road, and to date the Brits occupy a sizeable portion of the label’s customer-base – emulating the fuss-free chic of our Gallic cousins has long been a British past-time.
Here, Blocman opens up her Paris address book to share her locals-only knowledge, from the best time to visit (it probably isn’t when you’d expect) to the little-known museums she adores and her favourite spot to people-watch.
What makes Paris so special?
Paris has this unique blend of being an open-air museum with extraordinary architecture, history and cultural influence, while also feeling deeply lived-in. People work here, families have lived here for generations, neighbourhood shops are constantly evolving, and every arrondissement has its own rhythm. It’s both inspiring and wonderfully alive.
The best time of year to visit is…
Autumn. After the summer crowds leave, the city becomes even more beautiful. The colours are incredible, from the trees lining the streets to the light reflecting on the Seine and façades. There’s also something very Parisian about autumn style – I always find people look their chicest at that time of year.
Paris in autumn by Megan Ruth
How long should we stay to see it properly?
A week is a great start, but you’ll definitely want to come back. There’s always another neighbourhood, gallery, café or hidden courtyard waiting to be discovered.
Essential items to pack…
A camera to capture the city’s beautiful details, a woven basket that doubles as a handbag and shopping bag for all your finds, plus both sunglasses and an umbrella – you’ll need to be prepared for every mood of Parisian weather.
Our first pitstop should be…
A terrace café. Order a coffee, sit outside and spend half an hour simply watching the city go by. Paris reveals itself best when you’re not rushing.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
Hôtel Particulier Montmartre. Hidden behind a discreet gate in Montmartre, it feels more like a private Parisian home than a hotel, with beautiful gardens and an atmosphere that’s incredibly peaceful for its central location.
Paris is packed full of culture spots – which are your favourites?
I love the smaller museums, often housed in beautiful hôtels particuliers with gardens, where the experience feels more intimate. My favourites are the Musée Bourdelle, located in the artist’s former studio, the Musée de Montmartre, and the Musée de la Vie Romantique. The exhibitions are always wonderful, and the settings are just as memorable.
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Which tourist attraction is actually worth doing?
La Caverne du Pont Neuf by JR. This monumental and temporary installation pays tribute to Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s iconic Pont Neuf Wrapped, whose 40th anniversary was celebrated in 2025. It’s a rare opportunity for both Parisians and visitors to experience a contemporary reinterpretation of the city’s oldest bridge. The views from here are spectacular, especially at sunset, when the light reflects across the Seine and the rooftops of Paris.
What are your favourite stores?
Simrane, in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is one of my favourite places to find beautiful table linens in vibrant colours. I also love browsing their kimonos and pareos, which pair perfectly with Ysé swimwear for summer holidays. Fragonard is my go-to for gifts. I always bring home their orange blossom fragrance or one of their beautifully moulded soaps. All their perfumes are created in Grasse and instantly remind me of childhood summers in the South of France. For jewellery, White Bird on Rue du Mont Thabor is always a safe bet. The selection is thoughtful, refined and effortlessly elegant.
Are there any markets we should try?
Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais is always buzzing with energy. It’s the perfect place to stop for a casual lunch while soaking up the atmosphere of one of Paris’s liveliest neighbourhoods.
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What would be your dream itinerary?
Start early in Montmartre. It’s my neighbourhood, and I watch it fill up with visitors throughout the day, so the secret is to experience it first thing in the morning, when it still feels like the village it once was. From there, make your way down towards the Marais for shopping, galleries and lunch. In the afternoon, cross the Seine and spend a few hours wandering through Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Then end the day with a walk along the river as the light begins to fade. To me, it’s still the most beautiful view in the world.
The Seine at dusk by Joe Desousa
Where’s your favourite coffee shop?
Au Rêve, in Montmartre. It’s the café where my husband and I decided to settle in the neighbourhood ten years ago. While the top of Montmartre can be very touristy, this place remains a true local institution. You’ll find regulars from the neighbourhood, and the team is incredibly warm and welcoming.
And the best place for pastries?
Yann Couvreur for the vanilla flan. Nothing compares to it. It’s the one pastry I always recommend and an absolute must-try when visiting Paris.
What’s the public transport like in Paris? Or can we walk everywhere?
I grew up in Paris, so I know the Métro map by heart. It’s an incredibly efficient way to get around and, compared to many capitals, Paris remains a relatively compact city. That said, for the past few years I’ve mostly travelled by bicycle. The city has become much more bike-friendly, and it’s by far the best way to enjoy its beauty.
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Which is your favourite restaurant and why?
Le Chateaubriand in the 11th arrondissement. There’s only one tasting menu, so every visit comes with an element of surprise. I love the balance between tradition and modernity, both in the dining room and on the plate, as well as the chef’s Basque influences. It’s exceptional cuisine, but with a much more relaxed atmosphere than many fine dining restaurants.
The one place only locals know about?
The Cité Florale in the 13th arrondissement. Tucked away behind busy streets, this tiny neighbourhood feels like a secret village, with little houses covered in flowers and quiet pedestrian lanes. Even many Parisians have never heard of it.
Your go-to bar is…
Le Très Particulier, tucked inside Hôtel Particulier Montmartre. It feels like stepping into a private Parisian salon, with velvet banquettes, candlelight and a beautiful garden. It’s intimate, discreet and unlike anywhere else in the city.
The drink to order at the bar…
A French 75. Made with Champagne, gin and lemon, it’s elegant, celebratory and perfectly suited to a Paris evening. If I want something simpler, I’ll order a glass of Champagne.
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For the best views head to…
The top floor of the Centre Pompidou for sweeping views over the rooftops and monuments of central Paris. The rooftop terrace of Galeries Lafayette is another favourite, particularly for its stunning perspective on the Opéra Garnier.
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Slowly. Pick up a few treats from a bakery and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the gardens of the Palais-Royal. You’ll be surrounded by locals on their lunch break, reading a book in the sunshine or catching up with friends. It’s one of the rare places in central Paris that still feels peaceful and truly Parisian. Afterwards, take one last stroll through your favourite neighbourhood, stop for a coffee on a terrace, and leave yourself enough time to start planning your next visit.
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If we buy one keepsake to take home what should it be?
A handcrafted ceramic piece from Astier de Villatte. I love souvenirs that become part of everyday life rather than sitting on a shelf. It’s a beautiful reminder of Parisian craftsmanship, and one that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
In one word Paris is…
Timeless.
Is there a word or phrase that Parisians use often that we need to know about?
‘Flâner.’ It means to wander without a destination, simply enjoying the city around you. In many ways, it’s the perfect way to experience Paris.
FAQs about Paris:
How do you get to Paris?
You can get the Eurostar from London, or you can fly from many UK-based airports. Alternatively, use LeShuttle or the ferries from Dover and consider driving – it’s a three-hour trip from Calais.
How do you travel around Paris?
Paris is a compact, walkable city, but those with sore feet can jump on the Metro.
What is the accommodation like?
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Paris. From the luxury titans such as Le Meurice, Hôtel de Crillon and Ritz Paris, to more affordable options including Hôtel de La Boétie and Hôtel les Deux Gares, you’ll find something for all budgets. Paris has countless Airbnbs to suit different price points too.
Anything else to know?
Paris is very quiet in August because the locals usually escape the city heat and head to the French Riviera or further afield. Some smaller restaurants, cafes, shops and bars close at this time of year, but if you want to experience a less crowded version of Paris, it’s still a good time to go.
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
Lead image: Ysé
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