Your ultimate guide to visiting Paris — from iconic landmarks and hidden gems to local cuisine, getting around, and insider tips for an unforgettable trip to the French capital.
Paris Travel Guide: Your Complete City Companion
Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most visited destinations in the world — and for good reason. From the iconic Eiffel Tower and world-class museums to charming cobblestone streets and legendary cuisine, Paris offers an experience unlike any other city. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip.
Top Attractions You Can't Miss
Paris is home to some of the most famous landmarks on the planet. The Eiffel Tower is the city's most iconic symbol — climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views or admire it from the Trocadéro gardens. The Louvre Museum houses over 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, and could easily take an entire day to explore.
Historic Landmarks
The Notre-Dame Cathedral, currently undergoing restoration, remains one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. Nearby, the Sainte-Chapelle dazzles visitors with its stunning stained-glass windows. Don't miss the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, offering spectacular views down the famous boulevard.
Museums & Culture
Beyond the Louvre, Paris boasts an incredible museum scene. The Musée d'Orsay is home to the world's largest collection of Impressionist art, while the Centre Pompidou showcases modern and contemporary works. For something different, explore the Musée Rodin with its beautiful sculpture garden or the Catacombs of Paris for a journey through the city's underground history.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Each Parisian neighborhood has its own unique character. Le Marais is known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Montmartre, crowned by the white domes of Sacré-Cœur, retains its artistic bohemian charm with street painters and cozy wine bars. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the intellectual heart of the city, filled with historic cafés, bookshops, and elegant boutiques.
Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover the Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque waterway lined with trendy cafés and iron footbridges. The Rue Crémieux, with its colorful pastel houses, is one of the most Instagrammable streets in Paris. For a peaceful escape, visit the Promenade Plantée, an elevated park built on a former railway line that inspired New York's High Line.
Food & Dining
French cuisine is at the heart of the Parisian experience. Start your morning with a croissant and café au lait at a neighborhood bakery. For lunch, grab a croque-monsieur at a traditional bistro or pick up a baguette sandwich from a boulangerie. In the evening, treat yourself to a multi-course dinner at one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants.
Must-Try Foods
No visit to Paris is complete without trying escargots, duck confit, steak frites, and of course, French macarons and crème brûlée. For the best food market experience, head to Rue Mouffetard or the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris's oldest covered market.
Getting Around Paris
Paris has one of the most efficient public transport systems in Europe. The Métro is the fastest way to get around, with 16 lines covering the entire city. Purchase a Navigo Easy card for convenient access to metros, buses, and trams. For scenic routes, hop on a Batobus river shuttle along the Seine, stopping at major attractions along the way.
Walking & Cycling
Paris is a wonderfully walkable city, and many of the best discoveries happen on foot. The city's Vélib' bike-sharing system offers an affordable and fun way to explore, with stations every 300 meters across the city. Many streets have dedicated bike lanes, making cycling safe and enjoyable.
Practical Tips
Language: While French is the primary language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic French phrases like "bonjour" (hello) and "merci" (thank you) is always appreciated.
Tipping: Service is included in restaurant bills (service compris), but leaving a small tip of 5–10% for excellent service is a kind gesture.
Safety: Paris is generally safe, but beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on the Métro. Keep your valuables secure and stay alert.
Best Time to Visit
Paris is beautiful year-round, but spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July–August) is warm and vibrant but busy. Winter brings festive Christmas markets and fewer tourists, though temperatures can be chilly. Check our Paris weather forecast to help plan your trip.
