Paris, France

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Paris, France

Table of Contents

  1. Places to Visit
  2. Activities to Enjoy
  3. Where to Eat
  4. Where to Stay
  5. Things to Know
  6. Transportation in Paris
  7. Tips and Tricks for Visitors

Places to Visit

Paris, the City of Light, is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions. Here are some must-visit places:

Famous Landmarks

  • The Eiffel Tower: The iconic iron lattice tower offers breathtaking views of the city from its top platform.
  • The Arc de Triomphe: A monumental arch honoring Napoleon’s military victories, with stunning views of the Champs-Élysées.
  • The Louvre Museum: One of the world’s largest and most famous museums, housing an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral that was built in the 12th century.

Museums

  • The Musée d’Orsay: Home to a vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
  • The Rodin Museum: A museum showcasing the works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin.
  • The Musée Grévin wax museum: A fun museum featuring wax figures of famous people.

Parks and Gardens

  • The Luxembourg Gardens: A beautiful park with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, fountains, and walking paths.
  • The Tuileries Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll or picnic.
  • The Champ de Mars: A large public park located just below the Eiffel Tower.

Activities to Enjoy

Paris is not just about sightseeing; it’s also a great place to experience various activities and events. Here are some ideas:

Food and Drink

  • Wine Tasting: Visit one of Paris’ many wine bars or take a wine tasting tour to sample French wines.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to prepare classic French dishes with a cooking class.
  • Food Markets: Explore the city’s many food markets, such as the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (flea market) or the Marché d’Aligre.

Cultural Events

  • Concerts and Opera: Attend a performance at one of Paris’ famous concert halls, such as the Palais Garnier.
  • Theatre Performances: Watch a show at one of the city’s many theatre venues, like the Théâtre du Châtelet.
  • Art Exhibitions: Visit one of Paris’ many art galleries or museums to see contemporary and modern art.

Outdoor Activities

  • River Seine Cruise: Take a scenic cruise along the Seine River and admire the city’s landmarks from a different perspective.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city’s many cycling paths, such as the Vélib’ system.
  • Walking Tours: Join a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and learn about Paris’ history.

Where to Eat

Paris is famous for its cuisine, with a wide range of options available. Here are some recommendations:

Classic French Restaurants

  • Le Comptoir du Relais: A cozy restaurant serving classic French dishes.
  • Chez L’Ami Jean: A charming bistro offering traditional French cuisine.
  • La Grande Épicerie de Paris: A high-end restaurant located within the Le Bon Marché department store.

Street Food and Markets

  • Street Food: Try some delicious street food, such as crepes or baguettes, from vendors throughout the city.
  • Food Markets: Visit one of Paris’ many markets, like the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (flea market), to sample various foods.

Cafes and Bakeries

  • Café de Flore: A historic café located on the Boulevard Saint-Germain.
  • Les Deux Magots: Another famous café in the heart of Paris.
  • Pierre Hermé: A world-renowned bakery with several locations throughout the city.

Where to Stay

Paris has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some suggestions:

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Ibis: A popular chain hotel with multiple locations in Paris.
  • Hostel de la Plume: A stylish hostel in the heart of the city.
  • Generator Hostel: A modern and trendy hostel with a bar and restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Eiffel Kennedy: A comfortable hotel located near the Eiffel Tower.
  • Hotel des Grands Hommes: A charming hotel with a beautiful courtyard garden.
  • Hotel Le Walt: A cozy hotel in the heart of Paris.

Luxury Hotels

  • The Ritz Paris: One of the most famous hotels in the world, located on the Champs-Élysées.
  • The Shangri-La Hotel Paris: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city.
  • Hotel Plaza Athénée: A 5-star hotel located near the Eiffel Tower.

Things to Know

Here are some essential things to know before visiting Paris:

Language

  • French is the primary language spoken in Paris, but many people also speak English, especially among the younger population and those working in tourism.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases, such as “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “Au revoir” (goodbye).

Currency

  • The Euro is the official currency of France. You can exchange your money at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping in Paris is not as common as in some other countries, but it’s still appreciated for good service.
  • Round up the bill to the nearest euro and add a small tip (5-10%) if you receive excellent service.

Safety

  • Paris is generally a safe city, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.

Transportation in Paris

Getting around Paris is relatively easy with its comprehensive public transportation system. Here are some options:

Metro

  • The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient ways to travel throughout the city.
  • The metro system consists of 16 lines, covering most areas of the city.

Bus

  • Paris has an extensive network of buses, with over 350 routes connecting major landmarks and neighborhoods.
  • You can use your contactless payment card or a ticket to pay for bus fares.

Velib’ Bike Rental

  • Velib’ is a popular bike-sharing system, allowing you to rent a bike by the hour or day.
  • Bike stations are located throughout the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off your bike.

Taxi

  • Taxis are readily available in Paris, but be aware that they often take longer to arrive than other forms of transportation.
  • Use a reputable taxi company or hail one on the street.

Walking

  • Walking is a great way to explore Paris, especially for shorter distances.
  • Be mindful of pedestrian traffic and follow local rules.

Tips and Tricks for Visitors

Here are some additional tips to make your trip to Paris even more enjoyable:

Buy a Museum Pass

  • The Paris Museum Pass grants you entry to many museums, including the Louvre, Orsay, and Rodin.
  • It’s worth considering if you plan to visit multiple museums, as it can save you time and money.

Enjoy the Seine River Cruise

  • A river cruise is a great way to see Paris from a different perspective.
  • Consider taking a night cruise for stunning views of the city lights.

Try some French Pastries

  • French pastries, such as croissants or macarons, are delicious and worth trying.
  • Visit a local bakery or café to sample these tasty treats.

Visit the Champs-Élysées

  • The famous shopping street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and high-end boutiques.
  • It’s a great place to stroll and take in the sights and sounds of Paris.