A Perfectly Parisian Afternoon

Spend the Afternoon like a Parisian

If you’re a Paris enthusiast like me, you’re always on the lookout for new places to explore and activities to add to your Parisian bucket list. Well, I’ve got you covered with a mini itinerary for the perfect Parisian afternoon! 

First up, head to Jardin des Plantes - a beautiful botanical garden that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s also home to some great attractions including a botanical gallery, a rosary, an evolution museum, a zoo, and my personal favorite: Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie Comparée (The Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy). I’ve visited a handful of natural history museums around the world and none feel quite as original as this one. The layout of skeletons, shells, and bones is quite spectacular. It’s on the smaller side, so you probably won’t spend more than about forty minutes inside. 

Next, take a stroll around the park and discover its hidden passageways, garden labyrinths, and lush greenery. Take a seat on one of the benches and soak up the peaceful ambiance or simply wander around and discover all that this beautiful park has to offer. 

After that, head to the Grande Mosquée de Paris, the oldest mosque in Paris located across the street from the park, and immerse yourself in its peaceful atmosphere. Take a stroll to the backside of the mosque to tour the stunning gardens and architecture, or head to the tea room/courtyard to try a traditional Moroccan mint tea and pastries. Just remember to bring cash with you because the tearoom does not accept cards. And, if you’re in the mood for Moroccan cuisine, you can even have lunch here.

Once you’re done relaxing at the mosque, I suggest popping over to Cahier Central, a really cool shop that sells magazines and coffee table books. It’s my favorite print shop in Paris with tons of independent magazines covering a wide range of topics. You’ll find a great mix of magazines in English and French, as well as a few other languages. It’s a fun and original souvenir to grab for yourself or a loved one. 

At this point in the afternoon you might be feeling a little worn out, but don’t call it a day just yet! If you’ve still got some energy, head on over to the Arènes de Lutèce. This ancient Roman amphitheater, built between the first and second centuries, is a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Did you know that “Lutèce” was Paris’ former name during the Roman era? On a sunny day, you’ll likely find locals playing petanque, children tossing around a ball, and teenagers lounging on the steps of the arena. Best of all, it won’t cost you a dime to visit this historical monument. Maybe even dive into that magazine you just picked up! 

Finally, end your afternoon on a sweet note at Glaces Glazed, my favorite artisanal ice cream shop in Paris. With a range of super tasty and original flavors, you’re sure to find something you love. 

Et voila

That’s it for my mini itinerary! All of these spots are within a 10-minute walk from each other, so feel free to adjust the order to fit your preferences. I hope you have a blast exploring these Parisian gems and adding them to your list of things to do in Paris.

If you’re looking for more recommendations of things to do, eat, and see while you’re in Paris, then be sure to purchase the comprehensive 2023 edition of Jay’s Paris in my Pocket Guide, available now!