Having heard of Elena Ferrante's very successful books, I went to Tour de Babel looking for an original version to give as a present to my best friend. This little bookshop nested in the Marais district in Paris is a distinct place where time runs slowly and French, English and Italian mix in the conversations.
The nice sound of the languages is also displayed on the tables, where books in Italian mix with books by Italian authors or about Italy in French. Little Tour de Babel has poetry, novels and essays and accepts all kind of orders, so if you are into Dante's language or would like to read Umberto Eco's classics as they were written, this is the place to go. It also displays a small gallery space where Italian artists display their works. It's a really pleasant place to spend some time glancing through books. The attendants are keen on helping and will gladly and multilingually (!) provide you with advice.
Find your way with 168 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Le Bistrot de Longchamp" in Paris has an amazing positive atmosphere. I recommend visiting this small Portuguese restaurant on Tuesdays & Fridays...
by
"Venus sur Cour" in Paris is a special, hidden erotic shop that's unlike others. This one has actually a fascinating selection of antique sexual objects...
by
"Les mots a la bouche" is an LBGT-themed bookshop in Paris. It's nice and quiet. I strongly recommend you drop by -- you will discover interesting things.
by
"La Belle Iloise" in Paris, next to Les Halles, does top quality canned fish . I very much like tuna & sardines and how they even have fish sandwiches...
by
Cafe "Nomade" is based in an ex-tapissier. It's a perfect morning stop-off ofr a combo of filter coffee, pressed juice and a croissant or pain du chocolat.
by
Music Avenue Paris is my local soul/funk/hip-hop specialist. The place has been going since 1995 and every year they really celebrate record store day!
by
Entering "Le Silence de La Rue" in Paris you fall silent yourself, in awe of the copious racks of cataloged vinyl & merchandise from indie to rock...
by
Les Brutalists is where you'll find a leather maker's workshop that produces customized leather belts and unique, edgy accessories!
by
The records sitting in the racks at Vinyl Office make it seem like someone's prized personal collection, with a special focus on black music!
by
The "Gardens of the Quai Branly Museum" in Paris are next to the Eiffel Tower. What I love the most about them is that they're for free! Not to be missed.
by
The "Modern Art Museum of Paris" is free, which, as it so happens, means fewer tourists! Come here to enjoy some Modigliani, Picasso or Matisse in peace...
by
"The Zouave of the River Seine" is a statue on the Alma bridge that's become famous; Parisians come here to see how high the waters are compared to it...
by
168 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 168 Insider Tips