About Paris
City of Lights, Love, and So Much More
Paris, the captivating capital of France, beckons you with its rich history, romantic charm, and cultural significance.
Earning its nicknames:
City of Lights: Paris was an early adopter of street lighting and continues to shine brightly in the world of art and culture.
City of Love: Stroll hand-in-hand along the Seine or whisper sweet nothings under the Eiffel Tower’s magic.
Capital of Fashion: Indulge in the world’s most luxurious brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel.
A Feast fo the Senses:
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore the majestic Seine River and other historical gems.
Foodie Paradise: Delight in world-class cuisine, with Paris boasting the second-highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants globally.
Art and History: Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum’s artistic masterpieces, and the awe-inspiring Arc de Triomphe.
Unforgettable Experiences:
Stroll through charming neighborhoods: Discover hidden gems and soak in Parisian life.
Indulge in delectable pastries: Savor French culinary delights at quaint cafes.
Embrace Parisian nightlife: Experience the iconic Moulin Rouge or Lido cabaret shows.
Ready to fall in love with Paris? Start planning your Parisian adventure today!
Quick Facts:
€ Euro
The native language is French. English is sufficient in most places as a tourist.
Type C – Electricity is supplied at 220 to 230V 50Hz
%47 Catholic Christian, %33 No religion
Visa-free entry for citizens of the Schengen Area (26 European countries) and 55 countries. Citizens of other countries must obtain a visa in advance.
The general climate is temperate and moderately rainy throughout the year. Hot in summer, cold in winter. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit the city.
Location:
Where Is Paris?
Paris is located in northern central France. It sits on a north-bending arc of the Seine River, whose crest includes two islands, the Île Saint-Louis and the larger Île de la Cité, which form the oldest part of the city.
Districts:
Paris is divided into 20 unique districts called arrondissements, spiraling outwards from the city center (think numbered zones, 1 to 20, going clockwise). Each arrondissement offers its own character and attractions. Notably, the 12th and 16th districts boast large parks, Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne, for those seeking green escapes.
Beyond central Paris, the outlying suburbs are called Les Banlieues. Schematically, those on the west of Paris (Neuilly-sur-Seine, Boulogne-Billancourt, Saint Cloud, Levallois) are wealthy residential communities. Those to the north are poorer communities, and very ethnically diverse. Those to the south are a mix of rough and poor neighbourhoods alongside very affluent communities. Finally, those to the east are usually lower-middle class mingled with a few upper-middle class communities.
If you want to explore in detail what each district of Paris has to offer, read our blog post Paris Districts – Arrondissements
We have pinned the places to visit and food and drink places in Paris on the map. This map will help you navigate the city and discover hidden gems throughout the city
Transport
Getting to Paris:
Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG): North of Paris. The largest in France.
To find affordable flight tickets: WayAway.io or Kiwi.com
Paris Charles DeParis Orly Airport (ORY): South of Paris.
Beauvais Tillé Airport (BVA): It is used by charter airlines and low-cost carriers such as Ryanair.
Transfer: Try GetTransfer.com instead of a taxi, sometimes you can find surprisingly affordable prices.
Gare du Nord: North of Paris.
Gare Saint Lazare: North of Paris.
Gare de Lyon: East of Paris.
Gare Montparnasse: South of Paris.
Gare d’Austerlitz: East of Paris.
Paris is divided into 5 public transport zones. Zone 1 is the city center, and the fare increases as you go towards zone 5, which is the outskirts of the city.
Get around in Paris:
The public transportation network in Paris is quite developed. Transport service is provided by RATP. RATP also has a very functional phone application; When you choose where to go, it shows you how to get there as soon as possible, metro and bus times and numbers. To download the app, visit www.ratp.fr/visite-paris/francais/next-stop-paris
Metro and RER: The rail system in Paris operates from 5:30 am to 1:15 am. The metro has 16 lines and 303 stations. The RER has 5 lines and 257 stations.
Public Buses: There are over 800 bus lines in Paris.
Bicycle: There are bicycle rentals and also there are bike paths.
Car: The speed limit in the city center is 30 km/h. Parking is very limited and expensive. Some streets are prohibited for cars. However, you can consider renting a car at an affordable price for out-of-town trips.
Things to See and Do
Landmarks:
Tourist areas, landmarks, iconic buildings, museums, art galleries, historical monuments, large squares, view terraces, etc.
We have marked the most popular places by numbering them on the map below. Let us state in advance that you cannot visit all of these in a short trip. Our advice is to choose the places you want to go the most, create multiple routes, divide them into different days, and enjoy the city without getting too tired.
Avoid wasting time and make the most of your trip to Paris! With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan ahead and book your activities in advance. Some popular attractions can have long queues, so online booking can save you valuable time.
Here are some things you can book online:
Museum tickets: Skip the queues and gain priority entrance to popular museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay.
Guided city tours: Explore Paris with a knowledgeable guide and learn about the city’s history and culture.
Workshops: Take part in a cooking class, a wine tasting, or a perfume-making workshop for a unique and memorable experience.
By planning ahead and booking your activities online, you can make the most of your time in Paris and avoid unnecessary stress.
Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Paris:
Research opening hours and admission prices for attractions you want to visit.
Consider buying a Paris Pass, which can save you money on admission to multiple attractions.
Pack comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Learn some basic French phrases, as this will help you communicate with locals.
There are many things to do in Paris, depending on the length of your stay. However, don’t just rush from place to place for the sake of it. Take your time and enjoy the places you do go.
With a little planning, you can have an unforgettable trip to Paris!
Seine River Cruise: Unforgettable Paris Experience
Embark on a 1-hour Seine River cruise and enjoy an unforgettable experience in Paris.
Discover the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, from a unique perspective. Choose between day or night tours to witness the city’s daytime beauty or the magical illuminated cityscape in the evening.
Learn about Paris’ history, monuments, and architecture with the informative audio guide service available in 14 languages. The audio guide can be accessed through your smartphone via the onboard Wi-Fi or provided audio devices.
The cruise offers a delightful journey starting near the Eiffel Tower and passing under the city’s most beautiful bridges and monuments.
Book your Seine River cruise today and don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure in Paris!
PARIS 2024 OLYMPICS
Olympic venues, events, and places to visit in the 16th arrondissement.
Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games will be held between 26 July and 11 August 2024.
306 medal competitions will be held in the Games, which will be held in 32 sports branches, in 35 competition facilities, with the participation of approximately 10,500 athletes. In addition to the fixed 28 sports in the Olympic Program, break dancing, wave surfing, skateboarding and sport climbing will take part in Paris 2024.
Marathon race open to public participation:
The marathon race will be open to public participation for the first time in Olympic history. Amateur athletes who placed high in various running events to be held in France on the way to Paris 2024 will compete on the same track as athletes in the Olympics.
The Summer Olympic Games will be held for the third time in 2024 in Paris, which previously hosted the 1900 and 1924 Olympics. France had hosted the Winter Olympic Games three times before (1992, 1968, 1924).
Gender equality:
The gender equality target, which made great progress with the participation of 48.8 percent female athletes in Tokyo 2020, will be achieved with a full 50-50 percent male-female participation in Paris 2024.
Louvre Museum: Where Art Lives
The Louvre Museum, located in Paris, is the largest art museum in the world. Housed in the Louvre Palace, a former royal palace, the museum boasts a collection of over 35.000 works of art. These works span a wide range, from prehistoric times to the 21st century. This vast collection, which includes world-famous masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace, makes the Louvre a paradise for art lovers.
The Louvre is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, welcoming over 9 million visitors each year. In 2023, it retained its title as the most visited art museum.
9:00 am to 6:00 pm: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
9:00 am to 9:45 pm: Friday
CLOSED: on Tuesdays. 1 January, 1 May and 25 December
TICKET PRICES: €22
FREE TICKET: Under 18 year olds, under 26 year old residents of the EEA
Buy tickets online here. Entrance is guaranteed within 30 minutes.
If you are planning to visit the Louvre, we recommend that you purchase your tickets online in advance and arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. You can also join guided tours at the museum to learn more about the works of art.
Best Activities to Do in Paris:
Food and Drink
Local delicacies, national tastes, delicious croissants, coffee, wine, cabaret and entertainment venues, etc.
We marked the most delicious and popular places by numbering them on the map above. While exploring anywhere in Paris, you can see if there are any places worth a stop nearby. You can choose the one you want by looking at Google reviews and comparing prices.
From popular bakeries and patisseries, you can buy croissants, chocolate, éclairs, and macarons and eat them in the beautiful parks of Paris.
French cuisine is known for its rich flavors and complex dishes. Be sure to try some of the classics, such as steak frites, boeuf bourguignon, and coq au vin.
While Paris is known as a foodie paradise, dining at popular restaurants can often mean dealing with long queues. Luckily, there are many alternative options available to enjoy a delicious experience without the crowds.
Accommodation
- Set a Budget: Accommodation prices in Paris can vary greatly, so decide on a comfortable spending limit before you begin searching.
- Book in Advance: Paris is a popular tourist destination, so booking your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
- Read Reviews: Reviews from other travelers offer valuable insights into the quality of the accommodation and the overall experience.
- Consider Location: Think about your desired proximity to specific attractions or the kind of neighborhood atmosphere you seek.
Budget Hotels:
St Christopher’s Inn
Provided with free WiFi, this award-winning hostel is located on Paris Bassin de la Villette, only 1148 feet from Crimé Metro Station. It features a terrace overlooking the famous Canal Saint Martin and a communal lounge with a computer.
View on Trip.comThe People (Ex Les Piaules)
Featuring free WiFi and a sun terrace, The People Paris Belleville is a hostel in Paris close to the popular area of Belleville. Guests can enjoy a drink at the on-site snack bar.
View on Hotellook.comMid-Range Hotels:
Hôtel Thérèse
Hotel Therese is an elegant and intimate boutique hotel located in the chic Palais Royal neighborhood of Paris. Housed in a 19th-century building, the hotel offers guests an unforgettable accommodation experience. At Hotel Therese, you will find luxurious rooms, free Wi-Fi, a breakfast room, and a bar. Moreover, thanks to the hotel’s central location, you can easily reach all the city’s tourist attractions.
View on Expedia.comHôtel Muguet
Nestled in a quiet street between the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides, Hôtel Muguet offers a charming and intimate Parisian experience. With its personalized rooms, friendly service, and convenient location, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring the city’s many attractions. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo escape, Hôtel Muguet promises a memorable Parisian sojourn.
View on Hotels.comLuxury Homes:
Petite Paris
Snug but perfectly practical, this studio apartment is ideal for solo travellers and couples. The only sleeping space is a double sofa bed in the living area, which also houses a desk and a small kitchenette. It’s definitely compact, but it’ll do the job for a fuss-free stay – especially considering the location. You’ll be based in Le Marais, one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods. A short stroll away is the Picasso Museum, while restaurants and shops are an easy walk away. The metro is also nearby for trips further afield.
View on PlumGuide.comLight of the River
Overlooking the Seine, this apartment boasts impressive views and plenty of character. The art lined rooms are sophisticated and well suited to couples as well as families in search of comfort and style. Remote workers will also appreciate the home office, while the living room makes the perfect spot to switch off after a day of exploring. Located in Ile Saint Louis, you’ll find it’s just a short stroll to iconic sights like the Notre Dame, while Pont Marie metro station is also a short walk away – ensuring smooth connections with the rest of Paris.
View on PlumGuide.comShopping
From haute couture to hidden gems, Paris has something for every shopper.
Luxury brands: Stroll down the famous Champs-Élysées and window-shop at the world’s most prestigious designers.
Vintage treasures: Hunt for unique pieces at kilo sales and vintage boutiques.
Secret passages: Explore the charming covered arcades, known as “passages,” for a delightful shopping experience.
Endless flea markets: Spend hours browsing the stalls at Paris’ many flea markets, where you can find everything from antiques to collectibles.
Here are some specific places to check out:
Champs-Élysées: High-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.
Kilo sales: Kilo Shop, Free’p’star, and Guerrisol.
Passages: Galerie Vivienne, Passage Choiseul, and Galerie Colbert.
Flea markets: Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Marché aux Puces de Vanves, and Marché Dauphine.
Tips for shopping in Paris:
Be prepared to spend: Paris is not a cheap city, but there are bargains to be found if you know where to look.
Do your research: Read reviews and recommendations before you go.
Be patient: Shopping in Paris can be a leisurely experience. Don’t be afraid to take your time and explore.
Haggle: Don’t be afraid to haggle at flea markets and vintage stores.
Tax refund: If you’re not a resident of the EU, you may be eligible for a tax refund.
With its diverse array of shopping options, Paris is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion or unique souvenirs, you’re sure to find something to your heart’s desire.
Safe Travel
Essential Tips for Paris Travel:
1. Plan your accommodation in advance: Paris is a popular tourist destination, so hotels and other accommodation options can fill up quickly. Planning your accommodation in advance will help you avoid last-minute stress and high prices.
2. Research transportation options: There are many ways to get around Paris. Public transportation, such as the metro, buses, and trams, is widely available and easy to use. Taxis and ride-sharing options like Uber are also available.
3. Be aware of your belongings: Pickpocketing is a common problem in Paris. Be aware of your belongings at all times during your trip. Keep your bag close to you in crowds and tourist areas, and store valuables in your hotel room.
4. Be careful of scams: There are many types of scams that target tourists in Paris. Be wary of scams involving fake police officers, fake taxi drivers, and fake vendors.
5. Learn basic French words and phrases: Even if you don’t speak French, learning basic words and phrases will help you communicate with locals and make your trip easier.
6. Write down emergency numbers: In case of an emergency during your trip, you can call 112 for an ambulance, police, or fire brigade.
7. Get travel insurance: Travel insurance protects you financially in case of any unexpected events during your trip. Buy online now at a discount. Your insurance policy will be sent by e-mail within 2-3 minutes.
8. Be respectful of local culture: When traveling in Paris, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Be mindful of your dress and behavior in public places.
Bonus:
- It’s always a good idea to carry a water bottle and snacks with you while traveling in Paris.
- You can avoid waiting in line at many of Paris’ tourist attractions by purchasing online tickets in advance.
- Many cafes and restaurants in Paris offer free Wi-Fi. If you want to get an affordable internet package while traveling freely, check out Airalo.
- There are many museums and tourist attractions in Paris that offer special discounts for tourists.
Here are some additional tips for safe travel in Paris:
- Make copies of your important documents, such as your passport and visa, and keep them in a safe place separate from the originals.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
- If you are lost or need help, ask a local for assistance.
- Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel uncomfortable.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trip to Paris is safe and enjoyable.
