With family, as a couple, or during gatherings with friends, the capital is never short of resources to experience an unforgettable weekend during the May holidays. Whether it’s on May 1st or during the Ascension weekend, explore activities and events near our 4-star hotel, Le Littré.What are the public holidays in May 2024?In 2024, the month of May has 4 public holidays. It’s the perfect opportunity to let your hair down on a Parisian getaway. Here are the three public holidays that may allow you to enjoy long weekends for a relaxing vacation.From Wednesday May 1, Labour Day opens the May bank holiday season.Then comes the 1945 Armistice. This day refers to the Armistice of November 11, 1918, the treaty that ended the First World War.Then comes Ascension Day, a Christian holiday: Wednesday May 8 and Thursday May 9, to enable people to take part in religious celebrations and spend time with their families. These days are ideal for a trip to the capital. A week later, take advantage of Whit Monday (May 20) to discover Paris in May. For your extended weekend or even your vacations, put your bags down at the Hôtel Le Littré, in the charming Montparnasse district.What to do and see in Paris during the May bank holidays?Take advantage of these long weekends to discover a multitude of exhibitions and shows during an exceptional stay. Discover our top recommendations:At the Natural History Museum, put on a virtual reality headset to immerse yourself in the immersive exhibition “Lost Worlds,” where both young and old can interact with dinosaurs, explore the lifestyles of the animals around us, and more. Ticket prices range from €24 to €29. You can also enjoy the vast Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful Parisian park, perfect for nature lovers, botany enthusiasts, and those curious about enriching discoveries.Free and without reservation, take a stroll along Quai St Bernard if you’re spending the May holidays with your loved one. In the evening, the atmosphere transforms into an open-air ball in the arenas, featuring jazz and world music.During May bank holidays, the Château de Versailles offers a truly extraordinary experience, combining history and majestic architecture. The gardens are in full bloom. Imagine wandering through alleys lined with brilliant flowers, enjoying the beautifully landscaped parterres and fountains that add a magical touch to the whole. During May bank holidays, the Château often organizes the famous “Grandes Eaux Musicales”. This is a unique opportunity to see the park’s fountains in action, accompanied by baroque music, creating an enchanting atmosphere. And let’s not forget the Galerie des Glaces, an architectural masterpiece, with its sparkling mirrors and sumptuous chandeliers. Once inside the château, when the natural light of May floods the gallery, it creates a breathtaking visual spectacle.The Egypt of the Pharaohs from Khufu to Ramses II: From Friday, February 9, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025, the Atelier des Lumières presents a new immersive exhibition. The exhibition provides visitors with a unique opportunity to travel through time and rediscover the Egypt of the pharaohs. The showcased masterpieces, spanning three millennia of this mythical civilization, captivate all generations. A fascinating journey into the history and grandeur of this legendary civilization.The “Vertiges” exhibition at the Bourse des Commères during the May holidays promises a captivating and immersive artistic experience. “Vertiges” showcases works by contemporary artists that defy conventions and offer a unique artistic perspective. Each piece is designed to evoke wonder and amazement. Some public holidays may include special events or guided tours of the exhibition. Check the schedule to see if there are any special activities that could further enrich your visit.What activities can be organized to keep children entertained in Paris during the May bank holidays?During your stay with your children, don’t miss the optical illusion course at the Paradox Museum: a change of scenery and guaranteed laughter! An ideal destination for a family outing in May, the course features a collection of optical illusions, trompe-l’oeil, and visual paradoxes that will delight the children. It’s a unique opportunity to spark their curiosity and immerse them in a fascinating visual universe. The Paradox Museum is often located near other Parisian attractions. Take advantage of your visit to explore other interesting sites in the capital, turning your weekend into a complete adventure.Have you always dreamed of exploring space with your children? Within the headquarters of the European Space Agency (ESA), a new space has just opened to the general public, allowing you to discover the ISS in virtual reality and learn more about the world around us! The Astrolabe welcomes you with virtual reality headsets, where you can freely explore the lives of these incredible space travelers. You can also journey to the Moon or admire the rings of Saturn during an immersive experience.The Vincennes Zoo is more than just a wildlife park; it’s an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the wilderness, just a few steps away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. As you stroll through expansive landscaped areas, you’ll discover an incredible diversity of animals from all corners of the globe: from majestic lions to curious red pandas and elegant flamingos. It embodies the modern concept of the zoo, focused on animal well-being and species preservation. Additionally, during Pentecost and Ascension, the zoo offers educational activities, shows, and interactive events for children, making the visit both entertaining and enriching. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a relaxing family getaway, the Vincennes Zoo promises a memorable day in the heart of biodiversity, just a stone’s throw from the enchantment of Paris.May bank holidays: what to do just a stone’s throw from the Hôtel Le Littré during your stay?On May 1st or May 8th, take time out to visit our French capital for a long weekend or longer stay. Charming café terraces, parks and fine weather await you.A 5-minute walk from our 4-star hotel, The Art of the Brick in Montparnasse in May promises a truly unique and captivating artistic experience. It’s not just an exhibition of LEGO constructions; it’s an immersion into the creative ingenuity of artist Nathan Sawaya. His incredible sculptures, entirely made of LEGO bricks, transcend the limits of this familiar material to create astonishing works of art.For a delightful culinary experience during the May holidays, there’s nothing like a visit to the Girotti ice cream parlor, nestled in the charming 6th arrondissement and just a short walk from our Le Littré hotel. Immerse yourself in the deliciously artisanal world of this renowned ice cream shop, where a passion for authentic flavors meets exceptional craftsmanship. The sunny days of May will provide the perfect setting to savor exquisite frozen creations made with the highest quality ingredients. From the classic vanilla flavor to bold and creative combinations, each scoop of ice cream is an invitation to a gustatory feast. The warm and friendly atmosphere of the 6th arrondissement adds a special touch to your tasting, turning a simple ice cream break into a memorable gastronomic experience. So, treat yourself to this sweet pleasure at Girotti, where every spoonful is an invitation to relish the sweetness of Parisian life during the May holidays.Climbing to the top of the Montparnasse Tower in May is an experience that promises a spectacular view of Paris in all its springtime splendor. The Montparnasse Tower is located just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Picture yourself at the top of one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city, surrounded by a breathtaking panoramic view. In May, the city awakens to the gentle spring warmth, trees are budding with green leaves, and the city’s gardens come to life with a palette of vibrant colors. From the observation deck, iconic monuments of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Sacré-Cœur, stand majestically against a often clear sky. The fresh spring air adds a pleasant touch to this experience, making every moment spent at the top of the Montparnasse Tower even more memorable. Whether to admire the sunrise over the City of Lights or to enjoy a nighttime view illuminated by the lights of Paris, this getaway to the top of the Montparnasse Tower during the Pentecost holidays is an invitation to capture the magic of the French capital in a new light.Take advantage of your stay to attend the “Aura aux Invalides” event! Open during Pentecost, this extraordinary sensory experience will immerse you in a breathtaking show of lights, sound, and visual effects in the majestic setting of Les Invalides. In May, the historic facades of Les Invalides serve as a unique backdrop to a luminous production, creating a grand spectacle that transcends history and modernity. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a technology lover, or simply seeking an extraordinary cultural experience, “Aura aux Invalides” promises you an unforgettable evening where the history of Paris comes to life in a fascinating and contemporary way.A foretaste of the summer vacations during the bank holidays in May at the Hotel Le LittréMay is cherished not only for its public holidays but also for the return of pleasant temperatures. These factors provide solid reasons to treat yourself to a multi-night trip to Paris and even sometimes elsewhere in France. From the Seine to sunlit gardens, the entire capital buzzes with activities in the spring. A stay in our hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower will transform your experience into an exceptional and memorable moment, thanks to the splendid views offered by our Eiffel Tower view rooms. All that’s left for you to do is return to relax on the grass at Luxembourg Gardens and dream of a breath of fresh air during a stroll on the Green Belt, the Parisian hiking route between forests and green valleys.

The history of Parisian terraces and restaurantsThe history of Parisian restaurants is rich, fascinating, and dates back to the 18th century. The origin of the word “restaurant” is attributed to a Parisian entrepreneur who opened an establishment on Rue des Poulies and displayed a sign with the inscription “restaurant” to indicate that he served restorative broths believed to have healing virtues. During that time, inns often offered fixed meals, but this entrepreneur revolutionized the industry by providing à la carte dishes.Have you noticed the multitude of terraces in Paris? The popularization of terraces in Parisian restaurants is closely linked to the social and cultural evolution of the city. In the 19th century, Paris was booming, with the transformation of old neighborhoods into grand boulevards thanks to Baron Haussmann. It was during this period that cafes and restaurants multiplied, and terraces became popular places. This growth can be attributed to several factors: Firstly, Parisians, lovers of social life, appreciated the opportunity to sit outdoors, enjoy the weather, and observe the bustling street activity. Terraces offered a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, allowing customers to meet their friends in an outdoor setting. Additionally, terraces were a means for restaurateurs to maximize their space. In a city where space is often limited, terraces provided a clever solution to accommodate more guests.Today, Parisian terraces have become emblematic of Parisian culture, associated with the romantic idea of enjoying coffee or a meal outdoors while observing the world passing by. Some restaurants and cafes stand out with remarkably elegant décors. In this article, you will discover the fascinating stories of the greatest restaurants in Paris.Focus on the restaurants that have left their mark on Paris’s 6th arrondissementLe Procope, the oldest restaurant in ParisLocated in the heart of the Latin Quarter of Paris, Le Procope is considered the city’s oldest restaurant. Its history dates back to 1686 when Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, originally from Palermo, opened a café that would later become known as Le Procope. At the time, the place was frequented by intellectuals, writers, philosophers, and artists, making Le Procope an important cultural hub.In its early days, Le Procope was more of a literary café than a restaurant. Enlightened minds such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Diderot, and others gathered to discuss new ideas and intellectual movements of the time. The café also served as a meeting place for Enlightenment thinkers, and many revolutionary projects were discussed within its walls.Over the centuries, Le Procope evolved into a renowned restaurant, but it has preserved its historical atmosphere. The establishment witnessed many significant events in French history, including the Revolution of 1789, and survived through political and social changes, becoming an iconic place where history and gastronomy converge.Today, Le Procope continues to welcome visitors from around the world, offering a unique experience that blends the charm of the past with delicious contemporary French cuisine. Its walls are adorned with historical memorabilia, making Le Procope not only a restaurant but also a living museum of Parisian history.La Pérouse, the restaurant for explorers and sailorsThe restaurant La Pérouse, located on the banks of the Seine River in Paris, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 18th century. Founded in 1766, the establishment takes its name from the famous French explorer, Count de La Pérouse.Initially, La Pérouse was an inn frequented by sailors, explorers, and adventurers of the time. Its location on the banks of the Seine made it a privileged spot for those embarking on expeditions or returning from distant journeys. Legend even has it that Napoleon Bonaparte visited the inn before departing for his exile on the island of Elba.Over the years, La Pérouse became a popular meeting place for the Parisian high society. The restaurant underwent renovations in the 19th century and gained a notorious reputation for its romantic ambiance and sumptuous décor. The rooms are adorned with mirrors, precious woodwork, and elegant chandeliers.The restaurant has had moments of glory throughout its history, hosting famous personalities and artists such as Victor Hugo, George Sand, and Gustave Flaubert. It has also survived periods of political change, preserving its charm and unique character.Today, La Pérouse remains an iconic establishment on the Parisian gastronomic scene, celebrating its rich past while continuing to offer a unique culinary and cultural experience along the banks of the Seine.The more recent story of chef Hélène Darroz and her restaurant MarsanKnown in the world of French gastronomy and admired by the general public, it is impossible not to be familiar with Hélène Darroze, a highly acclaimed Michelin-starred chef, whom Littré had the pleasure of hosting for one of its later seminars.Coming from a family with roots in the culinary world, Hélène Darroze began her career in the culinary field and later won several awards, including 2 Michelin stars for her restaurants in Paris and London.Her extreme professionalism and ability to hit the mark are evident every time she opens a new establishment. The concept of her restaurant Marsan is to offer signature dishes that represent the spirit of the establishment and its location on Rue d’Assas in the 6th arrondissement. The atmosphere adds a lot to this understated and elegant address where only the finest ingredients are presented: for example, blue lobster gently poached in Espelette pepper butter, grilled wagyu by the fireplace with a whole confit tomato stuffed with tomatoes, or the essential dessert: the baba soaked in Armagnac.Le Pont Traversé, a café with a bookshop feelNear the Luxembourg Gardens and the Le Littré hotel, Le Pont Traversé, once a butcher shop and later a bookstore, takes its name from a collection of tales by Jean Paulhan.After the closure of the butcher shop, the bookstore was founded by the writer and poet Marcel Béalu in 1949. However, in 2019, the bookstore closed its doors. Frédérique Jules then took on the task of transforming the space while preserving the original storefront and murals, classified as a historical monument, to make way for an entirely new, sleek café and a delicatessen, still under the name Le Pont Traversé. The facade is striking, as it still features sculpted beef heads and enamel plaques, a nod to the former butcher shop. The café is warm and inviting, adorned with ornaments and cement tiles that shine. Le Pont Traversé is a place of life, sharing, and exchange where one can have lunch, dinner, or enjoy a coffee or a drink on the terrace. On the shelves of Le Pont Traversé, you can also find homemade jams and spreads, chocolate, tea, coffee, and olive oil – perfect for taking home a souvenir of the capital.Café de Flore, the café of the starsLe Café de Flore is one of the iconic cafes near the Le Littré hotel, located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. Founded in 1887, the cafe has been a meeting place for numerous intellectual, artistic, and literary figures over the decades.In the early 20th century, Café de Flore was frequented by writers such as Guillaume Apollinaire, André Gide, and Paul Eluard. In the 1930s, it became the haunt of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, who spent long hours there discussing philosophy and literature.During World War II, Café de Flore was a meeting place for the Resistance. After the war, it continued to attract intellectuals and artists, becoming a symbol of intellectual and bohemian Paris. Later on, the cafe also witnessed the beginnings of many celebrities, including Pablo Picasso.Today, Café de Flore retains its old-world charm and continues to attract visitors from around the world. It remains one of the most iconic cafes in Paris, associated with the cultural and literary history of the city. You can pay homage to the place by enjoying a croissant or a good espresso.

Illuminations, store windows, traditional markets, fairy-tale shows and Parisian entertainment: celebrating Christmas in the French capital is an incomparable experience. Whether you’re coming from the other side of the world or the rest of France, prepare to be dazzled by the splendor of Christmas in Paris. Close to the Montparnasse train station, our 4-star hotel is the ideal place to experience this enchantment.Marvel at the Christmas lights in ParisTake a stroll along the capital’s most famous avenues, which offer magical illuminations for the winter and Christmas season: Avenue des Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montaigne. The Champs-Elysées is famous for its stores, cinemas, theaters, cafés, restaurants and famous monuments such as the Grand Palais and the Arc de Triomphe. For the festive season, shopkeepers promise window displays and decorations over a length of more than 2 km, making it Europe’s busiest shopping street.Avenue Montaigne is the luxurious avenue that concentrates the greatest couturiers, jewelers, designers, palaces, restaurants and theaters that make tourists dream for the winter season. Ideal for Christmas shopping and admiring the fairy-tale decorations, it is located in one of Paris’s most beautiful districts, offering a unique experience to all who visit, thanks to its 200-year history. The famous Iron Lady remains the capital’s most famous landmark, and you can admire her illuminations in the evening from the private terrace of your room overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Up close and personal, she’ll transport you into the magic of Christmas. What could be more sparkling?As the City of Light lives up to its name during the festive season, don’t miss the chance to admire the lights in the lesser-known areas of Montmartre, Bercy Village and the famous Place Vendôme.Find the perfect gift for your Christmas in ParisWhat would Christmas be without a Christmas tree? It’s been a Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann tradition since 1976. Every winter, the Coupole welcomes its majestic Christmas tree of the year, to delight young and old alike. Ready for another edition?Printemps Haussmann comprises three buildings: the nine-storey Printemps de la Mode, the seven-storey Printemps de la Beauté et de la Maison and the seven-storey Printemps de l’Homme. Printemps du Luxe was created in 2001 to enable tourists and the French to shop year-round, especially during the Christmas season in Paris.Just a 10-minute walk from the Hôtel Le Littré, in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, is the historic Le Bon Marché. Located on the corner of rue de Sèvres and rue du Bac, it was one of the first Parisian department stores to appear. Women’s, men’s and children’s fashions, accessories, tableware and design pieces, as well as cultural exhibitions and collections of furniture and contemporary art. Whether you’re looking to give a gift to your loved ones or prepare a fine meal for the festive season, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for among the high-quality products on offer. Let yourself be carried away to the streets of Sèvres Babylone, where you’ll find plenty of stores to shop for your Christmas Eve dinner.Enjoy typical French Christmas dishes during your stay in ParisTaste the delights of gourmet Christmas markets: gingerbread, chocolates, fine cheeses. Visit the Christmas markets in the Tuileries, Notre-Dame, BHV Marais or at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. The Gare de l’Est Christmas market is ideal for discovering Alsatian specialties. Explore the Christmas markets not only in Paris, but also in the Ile-de-France region, where you’ll find beautiful French handcrafted gifts. Enjoy them on the spot, or serve them for the traditional New Year’s Eve party!To sample the specialties of the festive season, explore the best addresses in Montparnasse: Le Petit Littré, La Grande Ourse, La Rotonde… Looking for an original Yule log? Push open the door of the patisserie La Meringaie to discover its succulent Christmas wreath.Restaurants in the Montparnasse and Saint-Germain-des-Prés districts offer an elaborate menu for Christmas in Paris, perfect for diners looking to savor good seasonal produce. In the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Brasserie Lipp, recognizable by its varnished mahogany façade, serves traditional French cuisine. The dishes are of the highest quality, and include Osciètre Petrossian caviar and Perles de l’Impératrice du Cap-Ferret oysters. Next to the Opéra, the Grand Café des Capucines offers a wide choice of seafood platters, as do the Café de la Paix, La Coupole and La Closerie des Lilas in the Montparnasse district. Last but not least, Paris boasts two Bouillon Chartier restaurants, a historic one on the Grands Boulevards and a more recent one in Montparnasse Bienvenüe. The traditional menu at reduced prices remains a safe bet for Christmas Eve with family or friends.Parisian shows and entertainment for the Christmas seasonThe Nutcracker is definitely one of the world’s best-known and best-loved ballets, a great idea for an outing with your children, as a couple or with friends. During the 2023 Christmas vacations, discover a ballet of enchanting colors in a live concert at the Seine Musicale Auditorium. From December 26 to the end of the year, enjoy this Tchaikovsky composition. Be surprised by the music, enchanted by the costumes, and fall back into childhood.Come and see the Lion King musical, a worldwide success that enchants young and old alike, playing until May 2024 at the Théâtre Mogador in Paris. Hans Zimmer’s musical talent, Garth Fagan’s captivating choreography and Julie Taymo’s meticulously designed puppets and costumes bring the animals of the savannah to life.The most enchanting show of all is at Disneyland Paris, where you can experience the park’s enchanted Christmas through the illuminations of the Christmas tree and the musical show. Enjoy the magical play of light and color right into the New Year. Meet Santa Claus in the company of Disney characters dressed in their finest holiday costumes. Many surprises await you on this family outing.Ice rinks fill up at Christmas time, and of course during the school vacations. In the heart of a Christmas market or perched on a rooftop: try your hand at this sliding sport at one of the many ice rinks in Paris and the Ile de France region. Whether it’s for a romantic rendezvous, a competition between friends, or a moment of sharing with your children, this is the must-do winter activity!People skating at Paris Town Hall, FranceChristmas enchantment at the Hotel Le Littré, a hotel in Montparnasse close to Saint Germain des PrésMake the most of the Christmas vacations at the Hôtel Le Littré by booking a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower or the Sacré-Coeur. If you’re coming as a family, our Deluxe Family rooms are ideal for welcoming parents and children in the same room for a warm and welcoming experience worthy of a 4-star hotel. For the Christmas season, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree will be set up in the hotel lobby, along with decorations to welcome you. Hotel Le Littré wants to be its guests’ second home, especially for Christmas in Paris. To delight children, little treats will be hidden under the Christmas tree on December 25.