Paris Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to touring Paris, including the best things to do, how to get around, and tips for safety and health.


Introduction to Paris

Paris, often called the City of Love, is well-known across the world as one of the most romantic cities in the world. It is the capital of France and is located in the northern region of the country. Paris is known for its rich history, culture, architecture, art, and delicious food. This guide will take you through all the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural highlights in Paris.

List of Places to Visit in Paris

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Louvre Museum: This is a must-see destination for any visitor to Paris, as the Louvre is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world. It houses some of the most important art and artifacts in human history, including the “Mona Lisa” and the “Venus de Milo.”
  • Musée d’Orsay: This museum is another must-visit, as it houses a large collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: This historic landmark suffered a devastating fire in 2019, so it may be closed during your visit. However, if it is open, it is a beautiful cathedral with stunning Gothic architecture and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
  • Palace of Versailles: Located outside of Paris, this palace was the seat of French royalty until the French Revolution. The palace and its gardens are stunning and historically important.

Natural Attractions of Paris: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Eiffel Tower: No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark in the city. The views from the top are breathtaking.
  • Seine River: Take a boat tour along the Seine to see beautiful views of Paris from the water.
  • Montmartre: This hill is located in the north of Paris and provides stunning views of the city. It is also known for its picturesque streets and artistic heritage.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paris

  • Bois de Boulogne: This park, located in the west of Paris, is a popular destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
  • Canal Saint-Martin: This canal runs through the heart of Paris and provides a scenic route for walkers and cyclists.

Best Things to Do in Paris: Activities and Tours

  • Take a bike tour: Paris is bike-friendly, and there are many companies offering bike tours of the city.
  • Visit a market: Paris has many markets selling fresh produce, bread, cheese, and more. The Marché d’Aligre and Marché Bastille are particularly popular.
  • Attend a concert or the opera: Paris has a rich musical history, and there are many opportunities to hear live music or see an opera.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paris

Day Activity
1 Visit the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées
2 Visit the Louvre Museum and Tuileries Garden
3 Take a day trip to Versailles
4 Visit the Musée d’Orsay and stroll through Saint-Germain-des-Prés
5 See the Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the Marais neighborhood
6 Take a boat tour along the Seine River and visit Montmartre
7 Visit the Pompidou Center and enjoy the local food and wine scene

Food and Drink Scene of Paris

Must-Try Dishes

  • Croissants: This delicious, buttery pastry is a staple of French breakfasts.
  • Baguette: Parisians love their fresh, crusty baguettes, which can be found in almost any bakery.
  • Escargot: This dish of cooked snails is a classic French delicacy.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: France is known for its wine, and Paris has no shortage of wine bars and shops.
  • Coffee: Parisian coffee culture is strong, so be sure to stop at a local café for a café au lait or espresso.

Where to Stay in Paris: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hôtel du Nord et de l’Est: This hotel is located in the heart of the Canal Saint-Martin area and has beautiful views of the canal.
  • Generator Paris hostel: This trendy hostel is located near the Sacré-Cœur and provides a fun and social atmosphere.
  • Hotel des Grandes Ecoles: This charming guesthouse is located in the Latin Quarter and provides a cozy, homey atmosphere.

What to Buy in Paris: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Macarons: These colorful French cookies are a delicious treat and make for a great gift.
  • Perfume: Paris is known for its perfume, and there are many shops and boutiques selling high-quality fragrances.
  • Cheese: France is famous for its cheese, and Paris has many cheese shops where you can find a variety of delicious options.

Local Culture and Customs of Paris

Parisians are known for their style and sophistication. They take pride in their city and their culture, and they can be quite reserved when compared to other cultures. It is important to respect local customs, including dressing modestly and using polite language.

Best Time to Visit Paris

The best time to visit Paris is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. July and August can be very hot and crowded, while December to March can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paris

Do:

  • Dress appropriately: Parisians are stylish, so try to dress well when out in public.
  • Use polite language: French manners are important, so be sure to say “Bonjour” and “Merci” when appropriate.
  • Take advantage of the city’s outdoor cafes: Paris is known for its café culture, so be sure to stop at a café and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine.

Don’t:

  • Touch the produce at markets: In Paris, it is considered rude to touch the produce without permission.
  • Expect everything to be open on Sunday: Many shops and businesses are closed on Sundays in Paris.
  • Speak loudly in public: Parisians prefer a quieter atmosphere, so it is considered impolite to speak loudly in a public space.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paris

Paris is generally a safe city, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Pickpocketing can be a problem, so be sure to keep your valuables close. It is also a good idea to avoid isolated areas late at night.

Health in Paris

Paris has excellent medical facilities, but it is still important to take care of your health while traveling. Make sure to drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and take any necessary medications. It is also a good idea to have travel insurance in case of an emergency.

Getting to Paris: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paris

  • Charles de Gaulle Airport: This airport is the largest international airport in Paris and is located about 16 miles outside of the city.
  • Orly Airport: This airport is smaller than Charles de Gaulle and is located about 10 miles outside of Paris.

Bus Stations Near Paris

  • Gare du Nord: This is the largest and busiest train station in Paris, and it also serves as a bus station.
  • Gare de Bercy: This is another major train station in Paris that also serves as a bus station.

Other Options

There are also many trains and buses that connect Paris to other cities in France and throughout Europe. The transportation system in Paris is excellent, so it is easy to get around the city by bus, metro, or bike.

How to Get Around in Paris

The easiest way to get around Paris is by metro, which is a fast, reliable, and affordable option. Buses and taxis are also available, as are bike rentals and walking.

Where to Go Next from Paris: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Versailles: As previously mentioned, the Palace of Versailles is located just outside of Paris and is a popular day trip.
  • Normandy: This region is famous for its picturesque towns and D-Day beaches.
  • Champagne: The Champagne region is famous for its sparkling wine and scenic countryside.

Conclusion

Paris is a beautiful, romantic city with so much to offer visitors. From its stunning architecture and rich history to its delicious food and wine, there is something for everyone in Paris. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip, and we wish you happy travels!