There’s no shortage of recommendations from Paris. The coveted reservations, the celebrated boutiques, the familiar addresses that seem to appear on EVERY social feed. And while many deserve a spot on the itinerary, some of the most memorable discoveries happen when you venture off the well-beaten path. For me, part of the pleasure of returning to a city is finding somewhere new to linger, an unexpected treasure to bring home, or an experience that offers fresh perspective on a place I thought I knew. After all, the best trips aren’t always defined by how many places you check off a list (something I have to remind myself of often), but by the discoveries you make along the way.
With that in mind, Paris Finds for the Well Traveled is a collection of three places and experiences worth knowing about beyond the usual recommendations. From a bookshop that invites you to slow down and browse to a homewares destination that may inspire a little rearranging back home, and a champagne tasting that offers a delicious reason to pause, each brings something distinctive to a Paris itinerary. Think of these as thought additions to your next visit: places to seek out not simply because they are trending, but because they offer something worth experiencing for yourself.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Ofr. Bookshop
For the love of print
In a city synonymous with literature, art and fashion, Ofr. Bookshop offers a distinctly contemporary take on a Parisian bookshop. Tucked in the ever-so-popular Marais, this librairie-galerie brings together international fashion titles, niche photography volumes, architectural journals, and obscure underground zines. Some might even call it a visual wonderland, as patrons are encouraged to flip through pages and discover independent creators from around the world.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Ofr. Bookshop
But the appeal extends far beyond the printed page. Venture to the back of the shop, and you’ll find a gallery hosting rotating art exhibitions that add another layer of creativity to the experience. This mix of publishing, contemporary art, and visual discovery makes it more than your average book shop; it’s a chance to step into a different corner of Paris’s creative scene. Whether you leave with a photography book, an independent magazine, or simply a little inspiration, it’s a worthwhile stop for anyone who appreciates design, visual storytelling, and the pleasure of discovering something beyond the usual recommendations.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Ofr. Bookshop
Be sure to see what’s on exhibition during your visit, as it’s likely the experience may be different the next time you return.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Ofr. Bookshop
A Little Paris To Take Home
One of the pleasures of traveling is discovering pieces that allow you to bring a little of the destination home with you. Particularly when they have more character than anything you might find in a traditional souvenir shop. Located in Paris’s 11th Arrondissement, AXS Design is a must-know address for anyone who appreciates interiors with a story to tell.
Imagine a space that brings together vintage and antique furniture, standout lighting, beautiful decorative objects, and French tableware in one of the most incredible eclectic collections I’ve seen lately.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | AXS Design
From vintage ceramics and distinctive glassware to sculptural objects and decorative accents, AXS Design invites you to stay awhile and learn about these incredible, history-rich pieces.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | AXS Design
The appeal lies in finding something entirely your own that will always remind you of your time in Paris. Perhaps it’s a vintage serving dish for your next dinner party, an unusual object that adds character to a bookshelf, or a decorative treasure that brings a distinctly French sensibility to your interiors.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | AXS Design
I can’t stop there! I’d be remiss not to mention that the collection includes one-of-a-kind creations made from repurposed objects, adding another layer of originality.
And while the larger furniture pieces may make you contemplate shipping arrangements, plenty of smaller finds are easy to bring home, making AXS Design a one-stop shop for a thoughtful gift or souvenir.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | AXS Design
For those who believe a home should be collected over time rather than decorated all at once, AXS Design is well worth a stop. Forget the French Pharmacy finds; these are the kinds of finds that carry a little more character, whether displayed in your own home or given to someone who appreciates a thoughtful keepsake.
You may arrive just to browse, but don’t be surprised if you leave with something you hadn’t realized you were looking for. I purchased the most beautiful Lunéville asparagus dish as well as a vintage tulip dish.
I'll admit, I was a little nervous about getting my finds home in one piece, but the shop wrapped everything with such care that every item made the journey back to Nashville without a scratch. After all, a little Parisian character is always worth making room for.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Senfineco
A Different Perspective on Champagne
Paris and Champagne are a natural pairing, but if your appreciation for the bubbly goes beyond the widely recognized names lining restaurant lists, Senfineco is one address you will want to save in Google Maps.
Located in the 9th arrondissement, this intimate Champagne boutique takes a decidedly different approach, focusing on independent growers and smaller producers that offer a glimpse into the diversity of France’s most celebrated sparkling wine region.
My visit turned out to be one of the more personal experiences of the trip. I arranged a tasting with one of the owners, and what was intended to be a Champagne tasting became an intimate one-on-one instruction to four small producers. Rather than simply working through a lineup of bottles, we explored each producer's story, their individual approach to winemaking, and what makes their Champagnes distinctive. It was an opportunity to look beyond the familiar and appreciate how much personality and craftsmanship these smaller production houses can offer.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Senfineco
What I particularly enjoyed was the opportunity to ask questions, compare the different styles, and hear firsthand about the people behind the bottles. There is something special about tasting Champagne in this setting, with someone who genuinely enjoys sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for the region.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Senfineco
Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or simply curious to discover something beyond the large houses, Senfineco offers a refreshing perspective and a lovely reason to make a reservation during your next trip to Paris.
Paris Finds For The Well-Traveled | Senfineco
Part of the allure of travel is the promise of discovery, and there is often a temptation to reserve each return visit for somewhere entirely new, but I would argue that some cities are worth revisiting, not for the sake of retracing familiar steps, but for the opportunity to experience them differently.
Paris is particularly good at rewarding that curiosity. No matter how many times I return, there are always new addresses to uncover, shops to explore, and experiences that offer a fresh perspective on a city you may think you know quite well.
After all, the art of traveling well is knowing there is always more to discover. And let’s face it, Paris always has another story to tell.
Until Next Time!
