Photograph of the Alexander III bridge in Paris

Live like a local

Explore Paris with Marc Levy

March 12, 2018

We’re delighted to be partnering with Mapstr, an innovative smartphone app which allows users to create personalised maps and save favourite locations around the world.

Marc Levy

Inspired by our passion for art at Le Meurice, we’ve created our own customised Art and Culture Map of Paris, which makes it easy for you to find the best galleries, art museums and hidden spots in the city. We asked regular guests and notable artists to share their favourite locations, beginning with Marc Levy, a hugely successful interior designer, architect and novelist, whose works have also been made into comics and films. These are Marc’s personal recommendations:

Opéra Garnier

The Opéra Garnier is a spectacular place. I love sitting on the steps and watching people pass by. I also like going inside to admire the ceilings and sculptures, but also the roof, which is home to beehives – the bees have coexisted with the Opéra’s students for more than 20 years.

Assouline bookshop

Assouline is the last specialist art publisher, and I love to visit on my walks through the area. It’s located next to Maison Ladurée, which also conveys an image of culture à la française.

Le Musée Nissim de Camondo

The Musée Nissim de Camondo is entirely dedicated to late 18th century French decorative arts. I love this place because of the history of the Camondo family, but also because of the collection it houses. The museum tells the story of the love of art and transports you to another time.

Interior of a suite in a baroque decoration

A replica of the first plane, exposed in the Museum of the Arts and Metiers in Paris

Musée des Arts et Métiers

This is one of the world’s oldest technical and industrial museums. I would describe it as a ‘museum of human intelligence’. Every time I visit, I’m amazed by the inventiveness of the artists, craftspeople, scientists and inventors. One of my favourite exhibits is the Avion III by Clément Ader – the first aeroplane to be flown more than 300 metres, and an incredible testimony from a heroic era in aviation.

Galerie de Geraldine Banier

This gallery is home to a sublime collection of contemporary art and sculptures. I like discovering its artists and their unique talents. I have always known this gallery, but I make amazing discoveries every time I pass through its doors.

L’Ami Jean

In France, art and culture include gastronomy, and restaurant l’Ami Jean is an excellent example. It’s a stirring place with exceptional food, showcasing the authenticity of the craftspeople behind it. There is no shortage of convivial atmosphere and you meet people easily. Skill and art combine to make this a timeless place with excellent cuisine. It’s as simple as that.

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