Things To Do
in Paris
Paris, the capital of France, sits along the Seine with a timeless skyline of domes, towers, and Haussmannian facades. Its labyrinth of neighborhoods offers a daily blend of grand museums, intimate bistros, and lively markets. The city is renowned for its art, fashion, food, and romance, all easily explored on foot or by efficient transit.
A visit here feels like stepping into a living museum where history and modern culture mingle at every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Paris and make your way to a charming boutique hotel near the Seine. Unpack leisurely and head out for a freshly baked croissant and café au lait at a local patisserie. Wander along the river banks to soak in the glittering views of Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité.
Settle onto a leisurely boat cruise along the Seine, passing under historic bridges and admiring grand façades. Disembark near the Louvre and stroll through the Tuileries Garden, pausing by fountains and sculptures. Pop into a café terrace for a light lunch of salade niçoise or quiche Lorraine.
Dine at a classic bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, sampling coq au vin or beef bourguignon. Afterward, take a twilight walk to the Pont des Arts and leave a symbolic padlock on the railings. End the night with an espresso in a candlelit café while listening to the distant hum of accordion music.
Arrive early at the Louvre to beat the crowds and marvel at the glass pyramid entrance. Begin with the Denon wing, where you can gaze upon the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory. Explore nearby Italian Renaissance masters before grabbing a coffee in the courtyard café.
Cross Rue de Rivoli to the Carnavalet Museum and discover the history of Paris through immersive exhibits. Enjoy a light lunch of jambon-beurre at a sidewalk café. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering the Palais-Royal gardens and peeking into its hidden arcades.
Attend a classical music recital in a restored chapel or private mansion. Savor dinner at a Michelin-starred bistro, sampling innovative takes on classic French dishes. Conclude with a stroll past the illuminated Louvre façade, reflecting on centuries of art.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Three-course mid-range dinner for two | $60-100 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-6 |
| 🧀Cheese board or groceries | $8-20 |
| 🥖Pastry or bread basket | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic landmarks and world-class museums
- Vibrant neighborhoods and exceptional cuisine
- Efficient public transit and walkable streets
- Crowds and high costs in peak seasons
- Pickpocket risk in tourist areas
- Long queues at popular sites
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Paris
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic viewpoint with the Eiffel Tower framed by fountains and gardens, ideal at sunrise or sunset.
The glass pyramid set against the historic palace creates striking architectural compositions, especially at night.
Panoramic city views amid charming streets and artists’ squares.
An ornate bridge over the Seine with sculptures and gilded lamps, perfect for evening shots.
Quaint streets with river views and charming façades, excellent for candid street photography.
Gothic architecture and historic riverside ambiance, especially beautiful at golden hour.
Food in Paris
Paris Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buttery, flaky pastry best enjoyed warm from a boulangerie with a café au lait.
Must-Try!
Garlic-herb butter-snug snails often served in shells as an aperitif.
Juicy grilled steak with crisp fries; a timeless bistro staple.
Slow-cooked duck leg with crispy skin, often paired with potatoes and greens.
Rich beef broth with caramelized onions, topped with melted cheese and a crusty baguette.
Silky vanilla custard with a caramelized sugar crust for a satisfying crack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared foods in a lively neighborhood setting.
Oldest covered market in Paris offering diverse street-food stalls and cafes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite BonjouR or Bonsoir with a smile when entering shops or restaurants; address with Monsieur or Madame.
Keep hands visible; wait to be seated in many places; say merci when leaving.
Speak softly in public spaces and on public transport; queue patiently; avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and mosques; respect quiet spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Paris
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in bill; if not, a small 5-10% tip is appreciated in cafés and restaurants. Cash can be handy for tips in smaller establishments.
Cards (Visa, Mastercard) widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash accepted but less preferred in some places. ATMs are readily available in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; expect crowds around major sites but pleasant walking tours.
Warm days, long hours of daylight; lines at top attractions can be long; take advantage of late-evening strolls and outdoor cafés.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; shoulder-season crowds and festival vibes in the city.
Cold but romantic; shorter daylight hours; festive decorations around Christmas and New Year; indoor attractions become popular.
Paris at Night
Hiking in Paris
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Large urban forest with trails, lakes, and scenic paths just west of central Paris.
Extensive park with woods, a lake, cycling routes, and tranquil walking trails.
Expansive forest about 60 km southeast of Paris; renowned for hiking and bouldering.
Airports
How to reach Paris by plane.
Main international hub northeast of Paris; rapid rail and bus connections to the city center.
South of Paris; easy rail and road links to central Paris, often used for European flights and some long-haul routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, professionals, and retirees living in diverse neighborhoods across the city.
Multiple universities and art schools; a vibrant youth culture in specific districts like the 5th and 11th arrondissements.
Global visitors drawn to art, cuisine, and historic architecture; dense in central areas.
Many parks, museums with kid-friendly programs, and family-friendly dining options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extremely popular; public games and professional matches draw large crowds.
Casual lawn game played in parks and squares across the city.
Road cycling and bike-sharing (Velib) are common for locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paris.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in bistros and markets; look for vegetable tarts, cheese plates, and plant-based dishes; many menus include vegetarian substitutes or can adapt dishes.