From luxury Parisian suites to chic seaside resorts
More than half a century after her death, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel remains one of fashion’s greatest style icons. Her approach to travel reflected the same philosophy that revolutionised women’s wardrobes: effortless elegance, understated luxury and a deep appreciation for beautiful surroundings. Whether escaping to the Normandy coast, retreating to the French Riviera or returning to her beloved Paris, Chanel sought destinations that inspired creativity while offering space to slow down. Here’s how to experience the world through Coco Chanel’s eyes.
Stay at the Ritz Paris
No destination is more closely associated with Chanel than the Ritz Paris. After World War II, the designer made the legendary hotel on Place Vendôme her home, living there for more than 30 years in a suite overlooking the square. Today, guests can immerse themselves in her world by staying in the Coco Chanel Suite, decorated in her signature palette of black, ivory and gold, with lacquered Coromandel screens, lion motifs and archival photographs paying tribute to the couturière. Even if an overnight stay isn’t on the itinerary, stop for lunch or afternoon tea to take in a taste of Parisian glamour worthy of Mademoiselle herself.
Discover the Paris That Inspired Her
Beyond the Ritz, Chanel’s Paris is best explored on foot. Begin at 31 Rue Cambon, home to her original boutique and the mirrored staircase from which she famously observed her fashion shows. Continue to nearby Angelina on Rue de Rivoli, where fashion lore suggests Chanel kept a table reserved for afternoon tea. Between elegant arcades, historic cafés and the grandeur of Place Vendôme, this remains the Paris that shaped one of fashion’s greatest visionaries.
Escape to Deauville
Before Paris became synonymous with Chanel, there was Deauville. The chic Normandy seaside resort was where she opened her first fashion boutique in 1913 and forever changed the way women dressed for the coast. Inspired by the relaxed atmosphere, Chanel introduced striped marinière tops, jersey separates and effortlessly elegant sportswear, proving fashion could be both luxurious and comfortable. Today, stroll along the iconic boardwalk, admire the colourful Art Deco beach cabins and embrace a wardrobe of crisp white linen, Breton stripes and oversized sunglasses.
Retreat to the French Riviera
When Chanel wanted to escape, she headed south. In 1928 she purchased five acres of land in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and built La Pausa, the only home she ever designed herself. Surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the Mediterranean, the villa became a sanctuary where she entertained artists, writers and musicians including Salvador Dalí and Colette. Recently restored by the House of Chanel, La Pausa remains a symbol of the designer’s effortless approach to entertaining, where leisurely lunches, afternoons by the sea and stimulating conversation were all part of the itinerary.
Pack Like Coco
Chanel believed true luxury was never excessive. Her travel wardrobe was built around impeccably tailored essentials in black, white, navy and beige, pieces that could move effortlessly from train journeys to seaside promenades or elegant dinners. Think relaxed tailoring, jersey separates, Breton stripes, ballet flats and layers of pearls, finished with a quilted handbag and oversized sunglasses. Comfort and sophistication always travelled together.
Chanel believed true luxury was never excessive. Her travel wardrobe was built around impeccably tailored essentials in black, white, navy and beige, pieces that could move effortlessly from train journeys to seaside promenades or elegant dinners. Think relaxed tailoring, jersey separates, Breton stripes, ballet flats and layers of pearls, finished with a quilted handbag and oversized sunglasses. Comfort and sophistication always travelled together.
Travel with Curiosity
More than destinations, Chanel searched for inspiration. She found it in medieval architecture, stained-glass windows, coastal landscapes and the company of artists and intellectuals.
To travel like Coco Chanel is ultimately about more than where you go. It is about travelling with curiosity and impeccable style.
Lindsay Judge
