5 things to do in Paris this weekend

With the arrival of autumn, Paris adorns itself with magic. A nostalgic sky and numerous cultural events bring the city to life as it welcomes tourists with each season. To make the most of such a grand metropolis, nss has created a faithful, weekly guide to discover Paris in all its splendor.

To eat - Le Marché des Enfants Rouge 

Opened for the first time in 1615, the Marché des Enfants Rouges is the oldest covered market in the city. Located next to Rue de Bretagne in the Marais district, the market offers tastes and flavors from around the world (Moroccan, Italian, Japanese), making it the perfect place to escape the formality of French restaurants. Despite its name, this place is much more than a market. You will, of course, find traditional vendors, but if you venture a little further, you will discover a multitude of unique restaurants. We recommend Chez Taeko, considered one of the best and most authentic Japanese restaurants in the city. Take a seat at the wooden bar and enjoy perfectly crafted bento boxes, tonkatsu pork, karaage chicken, and, of course, sushi and sashimi. Complete it all with a refreshing Kirin.

39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003

To discover - Viva Varda! Exposition

One of the most highly anticipated retrospectives of the year is "Viva Varda," dedicated to the late great filmmaker and artist. Starting as a photographer in the 1950s, Agnès Varda went on to become one of the leading voices of the French New Wave movement. She consistently eschewed mainstream trends in favor of experimental techniques, which made her works both poignant and provocative. Located in the Cinémathèque française, designed by Frank Gehry, in the 12th arrondissement, the "Viva Varda!" exhibition brings together over 250 pieces of the departed icon's work, from unpublished photographs to film excerpts, posters, and costumes. The exhibition is the perfect place to explore the 70-year career of this phenomenal filmmaker while spending time in one of the most iconic cultural centers.

51 Rue de Bercy, 75012

Where to have fun - La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre 

The autumn season in Paris is synonymous with the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival. For five days, the streets of the 18th arrondissement come alive with events celebrating wine and music. This year, for its 90th edition, the festival is aligned with the upcoming Olympic Games, bearing the slogan "Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together." Start your weekend with the Taste Trail, which takes place at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur. About a hundred French vendors and winemakers will be there to offer festivalgoers the best specialties and beverages from their respective regions. Finally, on Sunday, the dancing evening "Le Super Bal" will take place on Place Saint-Pierre. The neighborhood will host events throughout the weekend, so there's no need for a plan; just take the subway or your bike and spend the day wandering around.

35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018

Where to go shopping - Come on Eileen 

In line with the ultra-popular thrifting trend, we recommend trying one of the trendiest second-hand shops in Paris. Located in the Marais on Rue de Rivoli, this shop is brimming with vintage treasures for all shapes, sizes, and styles. The first two floors are dedicated to women's offerings, featuring elegant dresses (reminiscent of Christian Dior) and a wide selection of shoes (including a pair of golden Yves Saint Laurent pumps that come to mind). On the ground floor, you'll find the men's selection, with designer shoes and suits for those seeking brand-name attire at a reasonable and negotiable price. While Come on Eileen's selection may be pricier than that of Free'P'Star or Kilo Shop, it offers a higher-end and more curated collection.

40 Rue de Rivoli, 75004

Where to party - Silencio Cabaret

Opened by the famous American director David Lynch, who wanted to bring to life the iconic club from his film "Mulholland Drive," Silencio has been one of Parisians' favorite nightlife spots since its opening in 2011. Located at the corner of Rue Montmartre in the 2nd arrondissement, the labyrinthine club offers a legendary atmosphere for those looking to enjoy a dirty martini while mingling with the city's elite and most elegant. This Sunday, skip the line and purchase a ticket for the closing performance of the Cabaret. Launched in September, the club hosts Cabaret nights every Sunday, featuring icons from the Parisian queer scene. For their closing night? Crystallmess, Andy4000, Kirou Kirou, and... a surprise guest, of course. Tickets are available on their website.

142 Rue Montmartre, 75002