Opened in 2011 by the people at Magnum Photo Agency (their Paris bureau is a few streets away), Le Bal is an institutional exhibition space dedicated to the documentary image. For the most part that means lots of photography exhibits but they like to mix up the shows with videos and especially books. They hold conferences with a great line-up of guest speakers and screen documentaries and other films at the nearby Cinéma de Cinéastes. Be sure to check out the bookshop where you can browse through their connoisseur’s collection of high-end photo books and limited edition zines. Le Bal Café is a great place to meet friends for a quick drink or sit down and taste Anna and Alice’s Anglo-French cuisine. And if you’re wondering why it’s called Le Bal, the space was once a dance hall cum brothel in the roaring ‘20s.

Great selection of design / illustration books

Best way to live the parisian way of life ! GO the re on sunday and drink a coffe or a glass of wine cole to the market. You can also eat oysters !

It's always good to check out what's happening in Fondation Cartier. They have lots of really good exhibitions of modern art, and the gallery itself is very beautiful. Perfect for seeing works you already know as well as discovering new artists and inspirations.

Even on rainy days beautifully moody.