Creativity, culture, and craftsmanship
May 8 - 14, 2026
7 days and 6 Nights
€6100 pp Private accommodation
€4900 pp Shared accommodation
SAVE 33% by booking your own accommodations
Don’t worry, I have plenty of great recommendations!
“Far from the typical fare one might find out there.”
~ Greg G. Photographer
Experience Paris through the creative lens of world-class fashion and design.
Your trip includes
Creative ateliers
Secret fashion studios
Flea market shopping
Historic archives
Artisan workshops
Beautiful covered passages
All your private tours
All your museum tickets
Inspiration for years to come
Click here to learn more about your host
Scroll down for the full itinerary
What’s included…
6 nights and 7 days at a 4-star hotel in central Paris
Welcome package and gift
Private welcome event
Seine cruise to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle
Most meals on the tour, including breakfast every day
All tickets, entrance fees, and private guided tours
Transportation on the tour
Parisian picnic at the Eiffel Tower
Entrance to the Paris fashion museum
Meet artists and vendors at the world’s largest flea market
The Azzedine Alaïa fashion exhibition
Shopping at French concept shops like Merci and Buly 1803
Haute Couture feather atelier visit and demonstration
Delicious French cuisine
Shopping under the beautiful covered passages
Discover the art of the Palais Royal
Craftsperson atelier presentations
The textiles and fashion wing of the Decorative Arts Museum
The sumptuous Galerie Dior in the Golden Triangle
Window shopping on Avenue Montaigne
Champagne in a mansion on the Champs Élysées
Help with everything else: your dinner reservations, additional travel days, and organizing your free time during the tour.
Travel tips, packing list, safety recommendations, and more
Your 4-star hotel…
The Boutique Hotel Mareuil is within walking distance of incredible museums, restaurants, and shopping in the Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, and Oberkampf districts, with excellent transit links to anywhere else you would like to go. An included hot breakfast sees you off every morning, and a relaxing private steam room welcomes you at the end of the day. Enjoy a glass of wine in the lobby honour bar before you head to the fantastic restaurant across the street or just around the corner.
The sought-after Marais district is right next door, offering all the shopping (Buly 1803, Merci, Dover Street Market) and museums (Picasso museum, Victor Hugo’s house, the History of Paris Museum) that you could ever hope to explore. With friendly and helpful staff, great rooms with excellent beds, and even good water pressure, this is one of the best locations in Paris to stay. Come early to recover from your jet lag or stay longer to continue exploring; it’s easy to extend your stay with affordable rates for my guests.
If you would like to save €2000, I am letting you book your stay anywhere you want. Perhaps you prefer a 5-star hotel that offers points, would rather stay in an apartment, or have an alternative accommodation. I have lots of options for you. Just ask!
Paris May 8-14, Day-by-Day
Fri. May 8 - Welcome event, Seine cruise, Eiffel Tower sparkle
Bienvenue á Paris! Enchanté!
We’ll start the evening with a wine and cheese event on a local terrace, where we can get to know each other and review our upcoming events. If this is your arrival day, you will have the opportunity to check into your accommodation beforehand, allowing you plenty of time to refresh for the evening ahead.
We will then do a quick metro lesson to build your confidence and get you set up with tickets for your trip. We will take a walk down the ancient market street, Rue Montorgueil, and get a feel for this area, which was once a bustling garment district and remains a Parisian favourite. We’ll arrive at the cruise ship in time for a sunset ride along the Seine while we watch the monuments light up as we float past. The payoff comes with an unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower in all its glory, sparkling in the night sky.
A beautiful beginning for our new group of friends!
Sat. May 9 - Palais Galliera, Eiffel Tower Picnic, Aft Off
We will begin with a visit to the only dedicated fashion museum in Paris, the Palais Galliera, to see their latest exhibition in a beautiful building designed in the Italian Renaissance style for the Duchess of Galliera. Although we don’t know what the next exhibition will be yet, this incredible space never disappoints. Past exhibitions have been the Chanel Manifesto, Jeanne Lanvin, and the astonishing world of Rick Owens.
Lunch will be à la carte today for everyone as we’ll be shopping for it (not included this day) at one of the largest food markets in Paris. We’ll take our lunch to the Jardin de Trocadero for a picturesque picnic on the grass with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower.
You’ll have the afternoon off to visit one of the many museums in the area (Musee d’Art Moderne, Palais de Tokyo, Musée Guimet, etc) or book your tickets for the Eiffel Tower right across the bridge. You are also just steps away from the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, and a metro ride away from the hotel or any other destination you may want to visit in Paris. I have plenty of ideas and am happy to create a personalized itinerary for you at no charge.
A beautiful day filled with the best of Paris fashion history!
Sun. May 10 - Flea market experience, Artisan Atelier
Experience a guided tour of the historic Clignancourt flea market, one of the most visited locations in Paris. Also known as the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, this is the world’s largest flea market and the original location where the term was coined.
Vintage clothes are just the beginning, with stalls specializing in jewelry, historic haute couture garments, antique textiles, collectables, furniture, architectural salvage, and so much more! With 7 hectares and over 2000 vendors, this is a must for anyone who loves to shop at a market, even if you’re just window shopping (or licking the windows, as we say in French!)
We’ll visit an artisan in her studio at the market to learn about her work and artistic processes.
Lunch will be at Le Paul Bert at the market, and we will meet up for a show and tell over a drink at the end of the day to see everyone’s treasures. It will be a fun and fulfilling day of shopping and inspiration.
We will spend most of the day here, and you are welcome to stay longer, leave early, or sit on a café terrace and people-watch until we are all done.
Mon. May 11 - Feather artisan, Alaïa Foundation, Marais Shopping
Today, we’ll learn how feathers are crafted into dreamy haute couture confections during an exclusive visit to a unique couture atelier. This tiny 4th-generation Plumassière atelier is an eye-opening experience that allows you to discover the many uses and treatments of feathers in haute couture, all handmade.
Once sufficiently amazed by this ancient feather craft, we’ll head back to the Marais. In this vibrant area, we'll visit some quintessentially Parisian concept shops in one of the only remaining medieval neighbourhoods of Paris. The Marais is a charming and picturesque area, filled with incredible restaurants, memorable art galleries, numerous museums, and some of the best shopping in the city. No wonder it is a favourite among visitors and Parisians alike.
After lunch at one of our favourite bistros, we’ll visit the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation to view the latest exhibition of the master couturier's work, including his atelier, which has not had so much as a pin moved since his tragic death in 2017.
A day to discover the heart of Paris!
The Marais is a fantastic place to end in, with the riverside not far away, incredible shopping of every type, cafés perfect for people-watching, and incredible museums like the Musée Picasso or the Musée Carnavalet. Ask me!
Tues. May 12 - Passages, Palais Royal, Musée des Arts Décoratifs
Today, we’ll get to know each other better on our walk through some of the most beautiful covered passages on our way to the iconic Palais Royal. These passages are more than a handy shortcut; they are full of charming shops and restaurants and have been pleasant places to duck the winter rains while running errands since their construction in the early 1800s.
Once the home of future Kings, regents, and sundry royals, the Palais Royal was initially built for Cardinal Richelieu in the early 17th century. Through its notorious period in the 1920s as a haven for gambling and prostitution, today it houses luxury shops, restaurants, and even two theatres in the arcades surrounding the sparkling fountain in the quiet central garden. Discover modern art juxtaposed with historic architecture, filled with inspirational moments.
We will lunch today en terrace at the fabulous Café Nemours for light French food while enjoying some of the best people-watching in the beautiful Place Colette.
We’ll have an appointment for a private guided tour at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the world's most extensive decorative arts museum, housed in a small wing of the Louvre Palace. We’ll get a tour of their latest fashion exhibition with past expos being Dries van Noten, Schiapparelli, and of course the record-breaking Christian Dior exhibition in 2017. We’ll also visit the stunning jewelry galleries to see the progression of jewelry design through the centuries and learn about the materials used by these artists of the past.
Royal palaces abound in our quest for fashion!
The MAD is a vast museum of decorative arts, and you are welcome to continue your visit at your leisure. We are in the centre of Paris, near the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre, with the incredible Tuileries garden right outside. Let me know what extras you’d like to include in your trip, and I’ll help you schedule it accordingly.
Wed. May 13 - Ave Montaigne, Galerie Dior, Champagne at La Païva
We’ll walk up one of the most fashionable streets in the world, the Avenue Montaigne, for a little “Leche Vitrines,” aka window shopping. I’ll give you a little history of the area known as the Golden Triangle and a lot about its most famous tenant at no. 31, Christian Dior.
After a quick visit to the recently refurbished Dior flagship store, we will head around the corner to the must-see fashion museum in Paris, the stunning Galerie Dior. We will have a reservation to explore the world of Christian Dior through the various themes of this gorgeous three-story museum. Featuring a rotating collection from the Christian Dior archives, we are guided through the work of all six subsequent Dior designers after Christian Dior: Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre, John Galliano, Raf Simons, and the current creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri.
Our farewell lunch will be a truly French experience at a classic Art Deco bistro located in the Golden Triangle. We will try all the French foods, such as escargots, haricots vertes, fois grás, and more.
After our French lunch, we will embark on an exclusive tour of a luxurious private mansion on the Champs Élysées. This mansion, with a rich history as the former residence of a famous courtesan who was mistress to Emperor Napoleon III, is now a private club. We will have the pleasure of meeting a friend of mine who is a club member to enjoy a farewell toast in one of the most incredibly ornate homes from the mid-19th century.
A truly remarkable ending to a beautiful time spent with new friends!
You are now on the Champs Élysées with its elegant boulevards leading down to the Arc de Triomphe. Tonight is the night to book that special restaurant. Le Train Bleu, perhaps? Ask me!
Thurs. May 14 - Breakfast and Check-out
If you have not booked a longer stay at the hotel, today is checkout day. Enjoy your breakfast!
If you are staying longer, don’t forget to ask if you need help deciding what else to do, like Champagne, Giverny, or even more Paris; there’s still much to see. You know how to get around, order food, and even get a taxi. Visit Disney, shop for souvenirs, visit Montmartre; you can never have too many days in Paris.
Au revoir et merci pour votre confiance! Bon voyage!
A truly remarkable visit to inspire you for years to come.
Don’t miss it! RSVP today!
A note from your tour designer
Leah Van Loon
I’ve created this Paris tour to inspire your creativity through the lens of fashion. For the past 10 years, I’ve shared my knowledge with people from around the world, helping them bring the beauty of Paris into their own lives. I’ve leveraged my deep connections in the fashion industry to deliver opportunities that allow you to participate in the creative side of Paris, bringing a deep understanding of the beauty of fashion and style.
During our time in this beautiful city, we’ll explore the world of high fashion and meet the skilled artisans who bring designers’ dreams to life. Visiting their workshops will give you a closer look at the craft behind each piece of clothing, helping you appreciate the artistry and innovation that have been built over generations.
We’ll also check out famous fashion museums to discover the creative process of the world’s top designers. The Galerie Dior celebrates 78 years of artistry at the House of Dior, and the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation rotates exhibitions based on themes the designer explored in his work. Additionally, we’ll visit the Paris fashion museum, as well as the world's most beautiful decorative arts museum and its dedicated fashion exhibition. and a fine jewelry collection.
While we won’t have a typical shopping schedule, we’ll stroll through lively neighbourhoods that spark creativity, like the Marais and the Avenue Montaigne. A huge highlight is always the largest flea market in the world, where I’ll help you discover unique finds that inspire you.
I ensure a relaxed schedule, allowing you to enjoy your time, with morning appointments to get us started, and afternoons reserved for easy guided exploration. Travelling with like-minded people is not only fun but will also help you connect with others who share your passion for culture. Our days are a nice blend of free time and dedicated activities. We are usually finished in time for a happy hour drink!
We’ll do all this from our fabulous 4-star hotel, which features a private steam room and breakfast included each day, located in one of the best areas of Paris, the Marais. You’ll find comparable trips more expensive and offer fewer benefits, but I’ve decided to make this even more affordable. I am happy to let you make your own arrangements for a substantial discount of up to €2000. I have many great suggestions for 3-star hotels and apartment rentals, or you can consider staying with friends or family. My ultimate goal is to bring together like-minded people to share in the appreciation of the craftsmanship and beauty of my favourite city.
Paris is a hub of creativity, and I’m excited to help you discover it. I look forward to welcoming you on this inspiring journey!
- Leah Van Loon
Top reasons to visit Paris with Leah
Connections
My deep industry contacts give me special access to unforgettable activities. I have spent years creating relationships with shop owners, museum curators, specialty guides, and, most of all, my precious artisan partners. Because of my relationships, you get to do things no one else does, like drink champagne in the private club housed in the most stunning mansion from the 19th century or get a guided tour from a curator of a world-class fashion exhibition.
Simplicity
All you need to do is get yourself there, and I’ll take care of the rest. There’s still plenty of time to fit in your bucket list items, and I am just the person to help you work out the best time to go and how to get there. The hotel I have chosen is in the perfect location, close to everything you might want, including restaurants, museums, shopping, and gardens, as well as many Metro lines and taxi stands if you want to go further abroad. I am always good for an opinion!
Experience
It’s important to me that you feel confident navigating Paris, so I guide you each day and give you the tools to find your way when I’m not there. It’s easy when you know how! You’ll have the added confidence knowing I’m there to answer your questions and offer assistance. With 10 years of experience bringing people to Paris, my most important job is to make you dream, ignite your creative spark, and leave you inspired for years to come.
Practicalities
A minimum of 4 people are needed to travel, with a maximum of 10. Your spot is only secure once the refundable deposit of €1500 is received by the deadline of Feb. 1, 2026.
This is primarily a metro and walking tour, with as many as 10,000 steps (8 km) daily, involving a lot of standing and many stairs in the stations. Guests can meet me at the hotel to depart together for our rendezvous or show up at the location on your own. I’ll teach you how to use the metro and navigate like a local with all the information you need for a successful trip to Paris. All guests must travel with a smartphone with data to access my information and for emergencies. I can also assist with obtaining a travel SIM.
I can advise you on the best way to get wherever you’re going, suggest nearby sights you might like to see, and recommend places to take a break while you're there. I encourage everyone to start using a digital map system, as it is a game-changer for getting around. You can access directions, menus, reviews and even street views of places you’d like to visit. I’ll send out a Google map with all our stops so you can check it out and add places I think might interest you. We will also have an exclusive group chat so you can keep in touch with your new friends in your off hours.
Once the deposit deadline passes, everyone receives a package with relevant information, including packing tips from me (I am a stylist!), as well as podcasts, films, and TV shows to watch for inspiration before your trip, and useful apps to download before you go. I also send reminders to book that special dinner at Le Train Bleu or purchase your tickets for the Musée d’Orsay, and keep you informed of any schedule changes as we approach travel time.
Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions using the button below or email me directly at info@fashionexperiencetours.com.
Let’s go to Paris!
Testimonials…
Devi V. - Textile Artist
“Leah is a true professional and puts the needs of her clients first. She understood my needs immediately and organized the most relevant and insightful tour in Paris. Her knowledge of and relationships in fashion and haute couture run deep..”
Donalee M - Visual Display Artist