{A vision in red—the Hôtel Plaza Athénée on Avenue Montaigne}

When I first moved to Paris in 2001, the 8ème arrondissement (75008) was my home. Two days into my stay, I was already the freak running along the Champs Elysées (no Frenchie would EVER do that), but I love exploring Paris by foot and running speeds up the process and makes 1-way streets 2-way, and it’s pretty easy to beat traffic. For today’s ‘Tour de France,’ I asked my classmate Sharon Graber, aka Scout Paris, to explore the 8th. While it’s not a neighborhood she was familiar with, with the name “Scout Paris,” I had to put her to the test and see what she could come up with. For me the 8th screams the opening of Midnight in Paris…

{Arc de Triumph; right: door on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré}

From Sharon:
It was a gorgeous Saturday afternoon when I set out to explore the 8th arrondissement. I wasn’t too familiar with the 8th, but I quickly became enchanted with it. The pretty streets and iconic monuments that fill this area will make you fall immediately in love with Paris—if you haven’t already. For those who appreciate luxury brands, 5-star hotels, grand architecture, and window-shopping, this Arrondissement is a little slice of heaven.

{Walk along the Champs Elysée; right: Louis Vuitton on the corner of George V and the Champs-Elysees}

The most famous street in Paris is the Champs–Élysées. Today, it is lined with chain stores and pricey cafes, but the view of the Arc de Triomphe is something everyone should see in person. And, you shouldn’t stop there. The iconic monument that was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 is worth visiting up-close. As I stood under the arc, I was amazed by its beauty and architectural details. If you have the time, wait on line to walk to the top of the Arc for impressive views of the city. Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré are home to a wide range of luxury brands including Christian Louboutin, Chanel, Fendi, Harry Winston, and Christian Dior. Even if you can’t afford to shop these brands, just the window-shopping alone is an experience. On the walk down Rue du Fabuourg Saint-Honoré, you will find yourself approaching Rue Royale. The street has views of Place de la Concorde and La Madeleine—a striking example of neoclassical architecture and one of the prettiest churches in Paris.

{Face is on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré; right: La Madeleine on rue Royale.}

While I was there I planned a visit to the Petit Palais, which happens to be one of my favorite museums in Paris. Not only does it house an impressive permanent art collection, it features a charming circular courtyard that is filled with beautiful flowers during the spring and summer. The opulent interior is also quite stunning. The museum has a charming café and the admission is free to view the permanent collection of paintings, sculpture and decorative arts.

{Inside the Petit Palais; right: Guerlain on the Champs-Elysees}

{Reserve a table at L’Avenue on Avenue Montaigne—a chic spot for people-watching and fine cuisine.}

{One of my first visits in Paris included a trip to the lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel George V. The hotel’s signature floral displays are awe-inspiring and so imaginative. Don’t forget to take a peak inside the hotel’s courtyard.}

{I love French pastries and macarons, so I planned a visit to Laduree on rue Royale. [two images above]}

{Le Paradis du Fruit [2 above images], 47 avenue George V – The restaurant has the best chocolate fondue platters and a pretty expansive menu of salads and sandwiches. Ideal for lunch}

Worth checking out in the 8th:

• Laduree, 16, rue Royale or 75 Avenue des Champs-Elysees
• L’Avenue, 41 avenue Montaigne
• Cojean Mathurins, 64, rue des Mathurins
• Hôtel Plaza Athénée, 25 Avenue Montaigne
• Le Petit Palais, Avenue Winston Churchill
• George V, 31 avenue George V

Thanks, Sharon!
Guest post by Scout Paris.
@sharongraber on Twitter