24 hours around La Madeleine: a cultural and culinary tour in the heart of Paris

Staying in the Madeleine district means choosing one of the most pleasant locations from which to explore Paris on foot.

From department stores and gourmet eateries to iconic monuments and Parisian gardens, there are plenty of must-see attractions just a few minutes’ walk from the Relais Madeleine.

Here’s our itinerary to help you make the most of 24 hours in the neighbourhood.

9.00 am: start the day gently

After breakfast at the hotel, head towards Place de la Madeleine.

With its architecture inspired by ancient temples, the Église de la Madeleine is one of the neighbourhood’s most recognisable landmarks. The streets surrounding it are also home to several iconic establishments of Parisian gastronomy.

Places to discover include:

• Fauchon
• Maison Maille
• Caviar Kaspia
• La Maison de la Truffe

It only takes a few minutes to see why this neighbourhood is so popular with food lovers.

11.00 am: a late morning’s shopping in the department stores

From the hotel, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann are less than a ten-minute walk away.

Much more than just shopping centres, these two Parisian institutions attract visitors from all over the world every year.

Don’t miss:

• The historic dome at Galeries Lafayette
• The panoramic terrace offering views over the rooftops of Paris
• The sections dedicated to leading French and international fashion houses
• The beauty and home décor ranges

Even if you haven’t planned to do any shopping, it’s well worth a visit!

1.00 pm: lunch in the neighbourhood

The Madeleine neighbourhood is brimming with restaurants, brasseries and hidden gems.

Depending on what takes your fancy, you could choose:

• A traditional Parisian brasserie
• A gourmet restaurant
• A quick bite to eat at one of the neighbourhood’s many eateries
• A tea room to linger over a leisurely morning

The neighbourhood’s main attraction is its diversity. There’s something to suit everyone’s pace of exploration.

3.00 pm: head for Place Vendôme and the Tuileries Gardens

After lunch, head to Place Vendôme.

Its harmonious façades, jewellery boutiques and elegant atmosphere make it one of Paris’s most iconic squares.

As you continue your stroll, you’ll soon reach the Tuileries Gardens.

Its paths, ponds and green benches offer a welcome break before you continue exploring the capital.

5.00 pm: the Louvre just a short walk away

From the Tuileries, the Louvre is just a few minutes’ walk away.

Even on a short stay, you can enjoy a focused visit by selecting a few key works or a specific department.

To make the most of your time, we recommend booking your ticket in advance.

8.00 pm: a Parisian evening

The Madeleine district is ideally situated for enjoying Parisian nightlife.

Depending on your preferences:

• Attend a performance at the Opéra Garnier
• Discover one of the neighbourhood’s theatres
• Book a table at a romantic restaurant
• Stroll through the illuminated streets of central Paris

The atmosphere changes as night falls, but retains the same elegant charm that characterises the neighbourhood.

Back to the Relais Madeleine

After a busy day, return to the tranquillity of the Relais Madeleine.

Its central location allows you to make the most of Paris whilst offering a peaceful setting to rest before another day of exploration.

This is one of the privileges of staying in the heart of the Madeleine district.