Bridges, churches, fountains and monuments sparkle, illuminating each of the avenues of the French capital. After dark, head straight to the Eiffel Tower, where more than 20,000 twinkling lights line the famous landmark. Or for a truly memorable night, take a romantic cruise along the Seine and marvel at sights such as the Pont Alexandre III – considered one of the city’s most beautiful bridges.

When the sun goes down, watch the city come alive. Choose from a host of activities, all set in the heart of the city, so you’re never far from a cosy bar to dive into. From visiting the Louvre by night or a caberate at the Moulin Rouge to a spectacular concert at Sainte Chapelle or Palais Garnier, there’s no escaping the magic here.

While in Paris, make The Hoxton hotel your home. This grand eighteenth-century residence with period details is well placed for exploring, with the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries and the banks of the Seine just 20 minutes’ walk away. For a nightcap, @EliseHoogerdijk, friend of The Bicester Collection, recommends climbing the infinitely Instagramable staircase to Jacques' Bar before retiring to your suite. The cocktails are arguably the best in the city.

Paris is home to more than 1,000 boulangeries and patisseries. Do as the Parisians do and kick start your day in the capital with a deliciously flaky pastry.

Self-proclaimed creative boulangerie BO & MIE, located a few steps from the Louvre, offers its unique take on a variety French classics. Open until 8 pm, it’s the perfect spot for a post-dinner ‘something sweet.’

Sandwiched between trendy boutiques and cafés with wicker-chair-lined terraces is TASCHEN Paris. Designed by Philippe Starck, the space itself is something to behold; elegant, minimal and perfectly curated. Inside, the shelves are lined with books, covering everything from art and architecture to photography. The boutique walls are scattered with limited-edition prints and one-of-a-kind artwork. Once the centre of literary life in Paris, TASCHEN Paris, continues to be a haven for book lovers today.

It's not all croque monsieurs and coq au vin in Paris. Bambini, a vibrant new(ish) trattoria, offers no-fuss, delicious Italian food in the city centre. On the menu you'll find generous helpings of pasta and incredible Neapolitan pizzas. As for cocktails, expect the classics alongside a selection of delicious Italian wines – all served against a striking backdrop of the Parisian skyline.

Home to a chic crowd, Hotel Costes is the place to be seen. You’ll be transported back in time with its long velvet drapes, decadent chandeliers, deep sumptuous chairs and menu of classic Parisian cocktails – all in keeping with the charm of a bygone era. We recommend ordering a Moscow mule; the strong ginger-lime flavour makes it the perfect cold-weather contender.