Best Baguette in Paris

On May 10th, a jury will designate the best baguette in Paris.

This tradition has been going on for 30 years, where the city honors Parisian bakers by electing the one who offers "the best baguette in Paris." If you happen to be on one of our tours and end up passing by any of the bakeries mentioned above, make sure to let us know if you want to stop and try their baguettes!

Six randomly chosen Parisians will taste all the baguettes that the bakers will have deposited that same morning at the headquarters of the Syndicate of Bakers of Greater Paris, located at 7 quai d'Anjou.

Representatives of professional federations who are deemed experts on judging bread (dream job, honestly) will also be present.

The baguette, a type of bread characterized by its long, thin shape and crusty exterior, originated in France in the late 19th century. Today, it is a cultural icon of France and a staple of French cuisine, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The baguette's importance lies in its representation of French culture, tradition, and craftsmanship, and its ability to bring people together over a shared love of good food.

The baguettes submitted must meet specific criteria, such as being between 50 and 55 centimeters long, weighing between 250 and 270 grams, and having a maximum salt content of 18 grams per kilogram of flour. Baguettes are judged according to five specific criteria: the baking, the taste, the crumb, the honeycomb, and the appearance.

The winner of the annual Best Baguette in Paris competition will have the honor of supplying the Élysée Palace (the President's house) with baguettes for an entire year

If you're curious about past winners and where to find the best bakeries in Paris, we've compiled a list of the 10 past winners below:

2012: Pain Pain located at 159 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris, near the Buttes Chaumont Park. Known for their bread made from organic flour, their baguettes are hand-rolled and shaped before being baked in a wood-fired oven.

2013: Maison Desgranges, located at 122 Rue de Tocqueville, 75017 Paris, near the Parc Monceau. This family-owned bakery is famous for their traditional French pastries, including croissants, pain au chocolat, and brioche.

2014: Le Grenier à Pain, located at 38 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, near the Montmartre neighborhood. This award-winning bakery specializes in organic bread made from locally sourced grains, and their famous "Goutte d'Or" loaf is a must-try.

2015: Boulangerie Brun, located at 193 Rue de Tolbiac, 75013 Paris, near the Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood. Known for their innovative breads made with non-traditional grains like buckwheat and spelt, this bakery also offers a wide range of gluten-free options.

2016: Boulangerie Dupain, located at 20 Rue des Martyrs, 75009 Paris, near the Montmartre neighborhood. This artisanal bakery uses only natural ingredients and traditional techniques to produce their delicious breads, pastries, and cakes.

2017: Boulangerie Lorette, located at 26 Rue de la Butte aux Cailles, 75013 Paris, near the Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood. This bakery offers a range of classic French breads and pastries, but is best known for their creative and flavorful sandwich options.

2018: Boulangerie Gontran Cherrier, located at 22 Rue Caulaincourt, 75018 Paris, near the Montmartre neighborhood. With a focus on using high-quality, organic ingredients, this bakery offers a range of artisanal breads and pastries, including their famous "pain des amis" loaf.

2019: Pain Pain again! This two time winner's commitment to using organic, locally sourced ingredients is evident in their delicious breads and pastries, which are all made by hand using traditional techniques. Stop in for breakfast or a snack while walking in the area!

2020: Boulangerie Pichard, located at 88 Rue Cambronne, 75015 Paris, near the Eiffel Tower. Known for their crispy baguettes and delicious pastries, this bakery has been a favorite of Parisians for over 80 years. Unfortunately, it closed in 2021, but will live on in the hearts of many.

2021: Boulangerie L'Essentiel, located at 2 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, near the Montmartre neighborhood. This bakery's commitment to using natural, organic ingredients is evident in their delicious breads, which are baked fresh every day in a wood-fired oven.

In conclusion, the humble baguette is more than just a bread; it is a cultural icon of Paris and a must-try for any visitor to the city. From its crusty exterior to its fluffy interior, each bite of a fresh baguette is a sensory experience that transports you to the heart of France. So, whether you enjoy it as part of a picnic in the park or as a quick snack on-the-go, make sure to savor every moment with this delectable French staple. Bon appétit!

The Best Day Trips from Paris

Paris, the city of love, art, and culture, is renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum. However, there is so much more to explore outside of the city. Here are some of the best day trips from Paris, including hidden gems that are perfect for romantic getaways and fun-filled family outings.

Giverny

"The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration."

– Claude Monet

Home to the famous French impressionist painter Claude Monet, Giverny is a haven for art and nature lovers. You can visit Monet's house and garden, which inspired many of his famous paintings, and take a stroll through the colorful flower beds and lily ponds. Even after his passing in 1926, the painter, father, gardener, and man remained forever intertwined with the magical haven that was Giverny. The town also has many quaint cafes and shops to explore. For a romantic touch, take a picnic and enjoy a lazy afternoon by the river Seine. Try to book tickets ahead of time, as the garden can get quite busy in spring and summer.

Versailles

Located just 30 minutes from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and art. The opulent palace was the residence of Louis XIV and is a prime example of French Baroque architecture. You can explore the palace's grand halls and rooms, as well as the expansive gardens and fountains. For a romantic experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the gardens or enjoy a picnic on the palace lawns. Strolls offers an exclusive tour of the gardens and palace, and we can even plan your transport for you! In addition to the palace, Versailles has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums and historic sites to explore. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its fascinating history and beautiful surroundings, Versailles is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to France.

Fontainebleau

For a more active day trip, head to Fontainebleau, a beautiful forest just an hour from Paris. The forest is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. You can also visit the Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a royal palace. Louis XIV, the sun king, lived there for a time, and the palace still holds Marie Antoinette's Turkish boudoir, a royal theater, and a Napoleon museum. In fact, it has the only surviving Napoleonic throne room in the world! For families with children, there is a treetop adventure park where you can climb, zip line, and swing through the trees.

Senlis

If you're interested in history, the town of Senlis is a must-visit. Located just 45 minutes from Paris, Senlis is a medieval town with narrow cobbled streets dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, half-timbered medieval houses, and a beautiful Gothic cathedral. You can also visit the Chateau de Chantilly, which houses an impressive collection of art and is surrounded by a stunning park. There are many historical elements as well, such as a defense wall left over from 3rd century Roman occupation, a nearby Roman amphitheater. In addition to its historic sites, Senlis is also a great destination for foodies, with a variety of excellent restaurants and cafes serving traditional French cuisine. The town is known for its specialty cheese, the "brie de Senlis," which is a creamy, tangy cheese that pairs perfectly with a glass of local wine.Senlis is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, stopping at local shops and markets along the way.

Provins

Last but not least, head to the charming town of Provins, located just an hour and a half from Paris. Provins is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its medieval architecture, including its well-preserved city walls and towers. Located in the Champagne region of France, you can use this visit to sample some of the bubbly beverages. Proving also is well-known for its rose production, meaning there are many rose inspired products for sale as souvenirs in the town. You can also visit the town's many museums, which showcase the area's rich history and culture. In one of the most famous events in Provins history, on August 3, 1429, the newly crowned Charles VII attended Mass in the Church of Sant Quiriace with his court and Saint Joan of Arc - thoug at this time she was not a saint yet. The church canonized her after she was burned at the stake. For families with children, there is a falconry show where you can see birds of prey in action, and for couples, there are cozy restaurants and wine bars to enjoy.

As always, everything is easier with a guide, and Strolls can offer custom tours or provide recommendations that are personalized for you! Don't hesitate to check out our website or reach out to us directly to ask for advice. Whether you're interested in art, nature, history, or adventure, there is something for everyone just a short trip from the city. So why not plan a day trip with your loved ones and explore these treasures? You won't be disappointed!

Taking Teens to Paris: 7 Tips for Planning a Memorable Family Vacation

Paris is a city that offers something for everyone, including teenagers. However, planning a family vacation to Paris with teens can be a bit challenging. In this article, we'll share ideas to help you plan the ultimate family vacation to Paris that will keep everyone engaged, entertained, and happy.

Tip #1

Involve your teens in the planning process

One of the best ways to get your teens excited about the trip is to involve them in the planning process. Ask them what they would like to see and do in Paris, and try to incorporate their suggestions into your itinerary. Some teens may be interested in visiting iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, or the Louvre, while others may prefer exploring local neighborhoods, parks, or markets. Encourage your teens to do some research on their own, and share their findings with the family.

Tip #2

Consider a guided tour

Paris is a city rich in culture, history, and art, and there are many guided tours and workshops that cater to teens. Whether your teens are into street art, fashion, or cooking, there's a tour or workshop that will fit their interests. For instance, you can take a bike tour to keep everyone active and engaged, tour the Latin quarter to see cool spots like the Shakespeare & Co. Bookshop and try crêpes. These tours offer a fun and interactive way to learn about Parisian culture and history while engaging your teens, and keeping them off their phones.😉

Tip #3

Give your teens some independence

Teenagers crave independence, so it's important to give them some space to explore on their own. Depending on their age and maturity level, you can let them go to a nearby café, take a solo walk around the city. Just make sure to establish clear rules and guidelines beforehand, make sure they have the hotel information and a paper map and agree on a meeting point and time. Giving your teens some independence will make them feel more grown-up and responsible, and will help them appreciate the city on their own terms.

We would recommend you to take our Paris by foot & metro stroll that will allow your whole family to learn how to use Paris public transport and quickly feel acquainted with the city. We are sure your teens will be happy to take the lead and help you transit the city once they learn.

Tip #4

Opt for accommodations that suit your family's needs

Choosing the right accommodations is crucial for a successful family vacation in Paris. Depending on your family's needs and preferences, you can choose from a variety of options, such as hotels, apartments, vacation homes, or even hostels. If you're traveling with children, you may want to opt for a hotel with family-friendly amenities, such as a game room, and ideally it to be located near a park. If you're traveling with teens, you may want to rent an apartment or a vacation home, so you have more space and privacy. Whatever your choice, make sure to read reviews and do your research to find the best accommodations for your family.

Tip #5

Explore beyond the tourist sites

While the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre are definitely must-see attractions in Paris, there's so much more to the city beyond the tourist sites. Encourage your family to explore the lesser-known neighborhoods, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path spots that give Paris its unique charm. Especially if you have been to Paris before, it can be nice to discover new things along with your teenager. Some of these hidden gems include the Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque canal with trendy cafes and boutiques, the Buttes-Chaumont Park, a scenic park with waterfalls and grottos, and the Belleville neighborhood, a vibrant area known for its street art and diverse food scene. The forests of Boulogne (West) and Vincennes (East) are also a good option if you're looking for large green spaces to bike, run or just enjoy the open air.

Tip #6

Take advantage of free activities

Paris can be an expensive city, but there are also many free activities and attractions that you can enjoy with your family. Some of these include visiting museums and galleries on their free days, such as the Louvre on the first Sunday of the month, or the Center Pompidou on the first Sunday of the month for visitors under 26. Some museums are free all the time for EU citizens under 26. You can also explore the many parks and gardens in Paris, such as the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries Gardens, which offer a peaceful and relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Check out this link for a full list of free museums and attractions.

Tip #7

Learn some French together

Finally, encourage your family to learn some basic French phrases and expressions before your trip to Paris. Teens may already have language classes ini school, but if not, try out an app like Duolingo (also available on the computer) to compete with who can get the furthest before heading on your trip. While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to speak their language will show your appreciation for their culture and will enhance your overall experience in the city.

You can also practice your French skills by ordering food, shopping, or asking for directions in French. Don't be shy, even if they don't always take the time to let you know; Parisians appreciate when foreigners try speaking French.

Taking teens to Paris can be a rewarding and enriching experience for the whole family. By involving your teens in the planning process, you can create a memorable and enjoyable vacation that will cater to everyone's interests and preferences. So start planning your trip today, and discover all the magic and beauty that this city has to offer!