Timeline
19:56
Arrive at the Centre Georges Pompidou. The museum is closed for renovation, but the exterior offers a striking architectural contrast against the evening sky. Use the walk from the anchor to stretch your legs and orient yourself.
20:26
Stand in the plaza facing the building. The sun sets toward the WNW, casting long shadows across the modern structure. This is your moment to capture the golden light hitting the metal and glass.
21:11
Walk to Shakespeare and Co. The bookshop is open late, allowing you to browse the eccentric, rambling floors of new and second-hand books as the city lights begin to twinkle outside.
21:41
Head to Café de Flore. This historic café was the favored venue for Surrealists and Existentialists. Order a coffee or a drink to soak in the atmosphere that has attracted artistic and literary crowds for decades.
22:11
Dine at Le Petit Prince de Paris. A notably Parisian restaurant with warm service and traditional French food. Reserve in the morning if possible, but the relaxed, uncrowded ambiance makes it a perfect end to an evening out.
Local tip
The walk from the Pompidou to Shakespeare and Co. is short, but navigating the streets near the Seine can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings in the crowd.
Check before you go
- Centre Georges Pompidou is closed for renovation until 2030. You cannot enter the museum, only view the exterior.
- Shakespeare and Co. is cash only.
- Le Petit Prince de Paris is best if you reserve in the morning.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Paris (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).