Bonjour and welcome to the ultimate Paris travel guide for first-timers! As someone who has visited France many times, I can confidently say that Paris holds a special place in my heart. It’s no surprise that France was the most visited country in the world in both 2023 and 2022—Paris alone is a timeless magnet for travelers seeking art, culture, cuisine, and that indescribable “je ne sais quoi” of French charm. Whether you’re planning your inaugural trip to the City of Light or seeking fresh insights for a return visit, this guide is your passport to making unforgettable memories in this enchanting city. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of Paris together!
Introduction
Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of over 2 million within the city limits. Located in northern central France along the river Seine, it is one of Europe’s major centers of finance, diplomacy, commerce, fashion, science, and arts.
Often called the City of Light, Paris is renowned for its beautiful cityscape, architecture, museums, and landmarks like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. It’s a center of world fashion, home to legendary designers and stores. Its central location makes it a natural base to explore other parts of Europe.
Paris has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. The Parisii, a sub-tribe of the Celtic Senones, inhabited the area near the river Seine from around 250 BC. In 52 BC, Roman emperor Julius Caesar conquered the region, and the Romans established a city there called Lutetia. This developed into Paris over the centuries and became the capital of France in the 10th century under the Capetian dynasty.
During the French Revolution in the late 18th century, Paris was the center stage for major political events. It was occupied by the Prussian army in 1870-71 during the Franco-Prussian War and was later recaptured by the Allies in 1944 during World War 2. Today, it is one of the world’s leading business and cultural centers, and its influences in entertainment, education, politics, media, science, fashion, and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world’s major global cities.
Getting to Paris
Paris is easily accessible by plane and train from destinations across Europe and the world. The city has two international airports:
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the largest airport and the main international gateway. It is located 23km northeast of central Paris. CDG has three terminals with flights from major global hubs. Travelers can take the RER B train, airport shuttles, taxis, or rent a car to get into the city center.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is located 13km south of the city and also has international flights, especially within Europe. Orly is served by the Orlyval shuttle train, RER B, buses, taxis, and car rentals for transportation into Paris.
The high-speed TGV train network efficiently connects Paris to other cities in France and major European hubs like London, Brussels, Amsterdam, Geneva, and Frankfurt. TGV trains arrive at Paris Gare du Nord, Gare de L’Est, and Gare de Lyon stations. The Eurostar train links Paris to London in just 2 hours 15 minutes via the Channel Tunnel. Eurostar arrives at Gare du Nord station. Other international trains from places like Switzerland, Italy, and Spain also connect to Paris through Gare de Lyon and Gare du Nord stations.
Within Paris, the RER train, Metro, buses, taxis, Uber, and bicycles provide easy transportation around the city and to the airports. The public transportation system is extensive, making it easy for travelers to navigate Paris without renting a car. Buy multi-day Navigo travel passes for the best value to use public transit during your stay.
Where to Stay in Paris
Paris offers a wide variety of accommodation options across its 20 arrondissements. Choosing the right area to stay in depends on your interests and budget. Here’s an overview of the main neighborhoods for visitors:
Louvre & Palais-Royal – This central area near the Louvre Museum is great for first-time visitors. Luxury hotels overlook the Tuileries Gardens. Also, close to high-end shopping and the Opera Garnier.
Marais – Charming area with narrow streets lined with restaurants, shops, and museums. The mix of boutique and historic hotels. Good for nightlife. Metro-accessible.
Latin Quarter – Lively student neighborhood on Left Bank near Sorbonne University. Budget-friendly hotels and hostels catering to younger travelers. Close to Luxembourg Gardens and lively nightlife.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Upscale Left Bank area known for cafes and people-watching. Range of high-end hotels located near top attractions like the Musee d’Orsay. Excellent shopping nearby.
Montmartre – Bohemian vibe with winding streets leading to the Sacre Coeur basilica. Charming boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels. Farther from the city center but still accessible by metro.
Champs-Élysées – For luxury seekers who want prestige addresses on Paris’ grand boulevard. High-end hotels surround the Arc de Triomphe. Convenient but very expensive.
With lodging options ranging from budget hostels to ornate palace hotels, travelers can find accommodations in Paris to match their style and budget. Advance booking, especially during peak seasons, is highly recommended.
Top Attractions in Paris
Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions and landmarks. No trip to Paris is complete without visiting at least a few of these iconic sites.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the most recognizable landmark in Paris. Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, this 1,063 foot tall iron lattice tower has become the symbol of Paris. Visit during the day to climb the stairs or take the elevator to one of the observation decks for stunning views over the city. After dark, the Eiffel Tower sparkles with thousands of lights on the hour for 5 minutes.
The Louvre
The Louvre is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. Located in a former palace, it contains over 380,000 objects and displays 35,000 works of art. Some of the most famous pieces include the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. With such a vast collection, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit. Focus on the highlights and masterpieces from ancient civilizations to French paintings.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a medieval Catholic cathedral built in the 12th century. This Gothic-style church is known for its flying buttresses, stained glass windows, gargoyles, and bells. Climb the 400 steps of the bell towers for impressive views over Paris. The interior is also beautiful with high ceilings, sculptures, and detailed stonework.
Following the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in April 2019, extensive efforts have been underway to stabilize and restore this iconic Parisian landmark. As of my last update in January 2022, parts of Notre Dame have reopened to the public, including certain areas of the cathedral interior and the exterior grounds. Visitors can once again appreciate the grandeur of Notre Dame and witness ongoing restoration work.
Day Trip Options from Paris
Paris makes an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding areas of France. Here are some of the most popular and worthwhile day trips from the capital city:
Versailles
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Palace of Versailles and its sprawling gardens located just outside the city. Versailles was the main royal residence and seat of power in the 17th and 18th centuries. Marvel at the sheer opulence of the Hall of Mirrors and the King and Queen’s Grand Apartments. Wander through the geometric landscaping and fountains of the gardens. To fully experience Versailles, allot a full day or stay into the evening to see the fountains lit up at night.
Giverny
Art lovers and garden enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Giverny, the home of Claude Monet. Tour Monet’s house with its famous green shutters and lush flower gardens, featuring the water lily pond that inspired his iconic impressionist paintings. Giverny is about a 1 hour train ride from Paris. Spend a leisurely day taking in the colors and beauty that inspired Monet’s masterpieces.
Reims
Reims is known for its impressive Gothic cathedral, where a long line of French kings were once crowned. Spend a day admiring the cathedral’s stained glass and stately architecture. Reims is also at the heart of the Champagne region, so be sure to tour some champagne cellars and taste this signature French sparkling wine right at the source. Reims is a 1.5 hour train ride from Paris.
With its proximity to iconic destinations like Versailles, Giverny, and Reims, Paris makes it easy to take memorable day trips. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or wine enthusiast, the areas surrounding Paris offer something for everyone.
Paris Food Guide
Paris is world-renowned for its cuisine and offers some of the best dining experiences in Europe. French cuisine focuses on simplicity, quality ingredients, and technique. When dining in Paris, you’ll find everything from traditional bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Overview of French Cuisine
French cuisine emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients. Classic techniques like sautéing, roasting, braising, and grilling allow the natural flavors of quality produce, cheeses, and meats to shine. Sauces made from butter, cream, and wine complement dishes. The French take pride in their cuisine and dining is treated as a social experience to savor.
Typical French fare includes dishes like coq au vin (chicken braised in wine), ratatouille (vegetable stew), and bouillabaisse (seafood stew). Other popular items are French onion soup, foie gras (duck liver pâté), escargots (snails), and dishes featuring duck, lamb, and beef. Breads, pastries, and cheeses are also cornerstones of French cooking.
Top Dishes to Try
When visiting Paris, be sure to sample classics like:
- Croissants and pain au chocolat – Flaky, buttery pastries perfect for breakfast
- Crepes – Thin pancakes filled with sweet or savory ingredients
- Steak frites – Seared steak served with crispy fries
- Coq au vin – Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, bacon, and pearl onions
- Cassoulet – Hearty bean stew with duck confit, sausage, and pork
- Soupe à l’oignon – Caramelized onion soup topped with croutons and melted Gruyère
- Macarons – Petite French meringue cookies in a rainbow of flavors
Best Restaurants
Paris offers exceptional dining at all price points. Top restaurants include:
Le Meurice Alain Ducasse – 3 Michelin star fine dining by renowned chef Alain Ducasse
L’Astrance – Intimate tasting menu restaurant with exceptional execution of French techniques
Chez L’Ami Jean – Cozy bistro serving Basque-influenced fare in a lively setting
Breizh Café – Specializing in crepes, both savory and sweet
Café Constant – Classic French dishes in an art nouveau dining room overlooking the Eiffel Tower
Le Comptoir du Relais – Buzzy bistro with gourmet French comfort food at moderate prices
Ladurée – Famous for its macarons in a variety of flavors
No matter your budget or tastes, Paris offers an incredible diversity of French cuisine to discover. Savoring the local specialties is one of the great joys of visiting the city.
Paris Nightlife
Paris comes alive at night with its vibrant nightlife scene. From buzzing bars and lively clubs to cabarets and theater, there’s always somewhere to go after dark in the City of Light.
Bars
Parisians love going out for drinks, whether it’s meeting friends at a cozy neighborhood café bar for an aperitif or heading to a trendy cocktail lounge. The city has bars to suit every taste, from literary cafés like Les Deux Magots, to wine bars focusing on natural wines like Le Verre Volé, to craft beer pubs like La Fine Mousse. Areas like Oberkampf, Bastille, and Rue Montorgueil are filled with great bars for bar hopping.
Clubs
Paris has some renowned nightclubs like the celebrity hotspot VIP Room and techno club Concrete. However, Parisian nightlife tends to focus more on bars than clubs. Hot spots include Social Club, Rex Club, and Le Carmen. Many clubs don’t get going until after midnight. House and techno dominate the club scene.
Live Music
Jazz has a strong presence in Paris, with historic venues like Caveau de la Huchette and New Morning hosting concerts. La Maroquinerie is the place for indie rock shows. Cabaret still thrives, with famous shows at the Moulin Rouge and Lido. Smaller cabarets like Michou also offer intimate performances.
Theater
Paris has over 130 theaters showcasing everything from French classics to avant-garde works. The Théâtre du Châtelet and Théâtre du Palais Royal are two of the most famous venues. You can often find discounted same-day tickets at theater kiosks around town. Experimental theater is big as well, with companies like Théâtre du Rond-Point and Théâtre de la Ville pushing boundaries.
From chic cocktail lounges to packed jazz cellars, Paris offers an alluring array of nightlife options for visitors. The city truly comes alive after dark.
Shopping in Paris
Paris is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of stores to suit all tastes and budgets. The city is home to famous haute couture houses, luxury boutiques from top designers, concept stores, flea markets, food markets, and charming neighborhood shops.
Department Stores
Paris’s grand magasins (department stores) are temples of high fashion and great spots to find big French and international brands all under one roof. Top department stores include Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann, both located on Boulevard Haussmann. Galeries Lafayette has an ornate dome and offers views over Paris from its rooftop. Le Bon Marché on the Left Bank is the chicest and most intimate of the department stores.
Luxury Shopping
The triangle d’or (golden triangle) in the 8th arrondissement is home to big-name luxury brands and haute couture houses. Must-visit streets include Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Other top luxury shopping streets are Rue Saint-Honoré and Rue de Rivoli near the Louvre.
Concept Stores
Paris has some fabulous concept stores that curate clothing, accessories, homewares, books and more from up-and-coming designers. Notable concept stores include Merci (which donates all profits to charity), Colette, The Broken Arm, and L’Eclaireur.
Flea Markets
Paris’s flea markets are treasure troves for antiques, vintage fashion, and curiosities. Popular markets include the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, the Marche d’Aligre, and the Marché aux Fleurs. Arrive early for the best finds.
Food Markets
Open-air food markets can be found across Paris. Top picks include the Marché Bastille, Marché d’Aligre, and Rue Cler market. Browse stalls piled high with bread, cheese, meat, seafood, produce, and other French delicacies. Many markets have food stands where you can grab lunch.
Neighborhood Shops
Get off the beaten path to discover Paris’s charming local shops. The Marais has trendy independent boutiques. The Latin Quarter and St Germain des Prés have plenty of unique finds. And don’t miss Paris’s covered passages – glass-roofed arcades filled with shops.
Free Things to Do
Paris has plenty of free activities to enjoy if you’re looking to save money during your visit. Here are some of the top free things to do in Paris:
Free Museums
Several of Paris’ best museums offer free entry on certain days or times. The Louvre is free on the first Sunday of every month, and the Musée d’Orsay is free on the first Sunday of every month as well. The Centre Pompidou offers free admission every first Sunday of the month.
Other free museums include the Musée de la Vie Romantique, Musée Cernuschi, Musée Cognacq-Jay, and Maison de Balzac. These lesser-known museums often fly under the radar but house impressive collections worth seeing.
Parks & Gardens
Paris has many beautiful parks and gardens that are free to stroll through and relax in. The Tuileries Garden adjacent to the Louvre provides perfect symmetry and manicured gardens. Meanwhile, the Luxembourg Gardens on the Left Bank are ideal for people watching while surrounded by lush greenery.
Other notable green spaces are Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement, filled with ponds, statues, and winding paths, and the Jardin des Plantes, Paris’ botanic garden home to tropical greenhouses and rose gardens.
Churches & Cathedrals
Many of Paris’ ornate churches and cathedrals do not charge an entry fee, making them ideal free attractions. Top churches to visit include the Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur, and Église Saint-Eustache. Marvel at the gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and relics within these historic places of worship.
Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées
While you have to pay to access the top of the Arc de Triomphe, it costs nothing to view the iconic monument and stroll along the adjacent Champs-Élysées avenue. This famous area is perfect for window shopping, admiring the architecture, and people-watching.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
One of the world’s most famous cemeteries, Père Lachaise is like an open-air sculpture garden, with elaborate tombs honoring many famed artists, writers, composers, and more. Wandering the tombstones and mausoleums is a moving experience and an offbeat-free activity.
With some advance planning, you can have an amazing Paris trip while spending very little on attractions. Enjoy all the beauty and culture the city has to offer on a budget.
When to Visit Paris
Paris is a popular year-round destination with mild winters, pleasant springs and autumns, and warm summers. The weather, sights, events, and costs vary by season, so here’s an overview of the best times to visit Paris:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Paris. The weather starts warming up, with average highs around 15°C (60°F) in March and up to 22°C (72°F) in May. Rain showers are common but the city starts blooming with flowers and trees.
This is shoulder season, so crowds and prices are moderate. Hotel rates and airfares are cheaper than summer. Key events include the Paris Marathon in April and the French Open tennis tournament in May.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris. The weather is warm and sunny, with highs from the mid-20s to low-30s °C (77-90°F). It’s generally a dry season, though occasional thunderstorms occur.
Major attractions, hotels, and flights are most expensive and crowded in summer. Book well in advance. Key events include the Fête de la Musique free concerts in June and Bastille Day celebrations on July 14.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is a lovely time to visit as the summer crowds fade away. September still has warm weather, with highs around 22°C (72°F), while October and November are cooler, with highs of 12-15°C (54-59°F).
This is one of the best times for sightseeing, shopping, and saving money on hotels and airfare before the pre-Christmas rush. Don’t miss the grape harvest festivals in September and the Paris Jazz Festival in October.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the low season, so you’ll find fewer tourists but cold weather and short days. Average highs are around 6-8°C (43-46°F) and lows hover just above freezing. Rain and snow showers are common.
Despite the chilly weather, December is a magical time with elaborate Christmas decorations and markets. Hotel rates are cheapest in January and February. Key events include New Year’s celebrations, the Paris Fashion Week, and Carnival.
The best times to visit Paris with pleasant weather and fewer crowds are spring and fall. Summer has the warmest weather but peak crowds and prices. Winter has the fewest tourists but cold damp weather – though the Christmas spirit makes December a special time to visit.
Conclusion
I hope you feel equipped and enthusiastic about exploring the enchanting City of Light. Whether you’re captivated by the iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, or seeking out hidden gems in the neighborhoods, Paris promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Take time to indulge in the delectable cuisine, soak in the rich culture, and embrace the romantic ambiance of this remarkable city. As you wander through its picturesque streets, may Paris leave an indelible mark on your heart. Bon voyage, and until we meet again in Paris—à bientôt!
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