Explore the Le Marais Neighborhood in Paris, Paris

Be a Parisian for the day and explore the hip neighborhood of Le Marais. This neighborhood had played an important part in French history since the 13th century when the Order of the Temple constructed a fortified church, which inspired several beautiful religious buildings and the epicenter of the Parisian Jewish community. Start with a classic breakfast of cafe au lait and a buttered tartine or, of course, a perfect croissant. Then discover the district by foot, walking alongside centuries-old synagogues, high-end fashion boutiques, dining hotspots, art galleries, and LGBTQ+-run businesses.

Visit the Haut-Marais, or Upper Marais, a section of the neighborhood that has transformed from former working-class factories to chic shops and galleries. There, you'll meet a Maître Fromager (Master Cheesemaker) at a renowned local cheese shop. Then, with expert guidance, learn about the cheese maturation process and taste selected cheeses from different regions paired thoughtfully with complementing wines. Afterward, continue touring through Le Marais's lively streets and hear tales of the magnificent 17th-century mansions that once dominated the district.

In the afternoon, let your interests lead the tour. You can visit the Maison Européenne de la Photographie (MEP), which boasts an incredible selection of work by premiere and emerging photographers, or discover the funky Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, a museum devoted to hunting and taxidermy, filled to the brim with curiosities. Explore the neighborhood's stylish boutiques and hidden gardens and when you're feeling hungry, pop over to Rue des Rosiers for a warm kosher pastry or an iconic falafel sandwich. If you're hungry for something more, sample international specialties at the Marche des Enfants Rouges or stop in at a wine bar to wind down the day.

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