Planning a Trip to Paris France
There are countless reasons to plan a trip to Paris. From its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, to its rich history and culture, to its world-renowned cuisine, Paris offers something for every traveler.
In this guide, we will outline every detail for planning a trip to Paris, France. Rest assured, we will cover all you need to know in order to plan a cost and time efficient adventure to Paris.
Table of Contents:
Travel and Transportation
When is the best time to visit Paris?
Without a doubt, the optimum time to explore Paris is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). The weather during these months is pleasantly mild, and the city is less besieged by tourists. Plus, you'll often find that accommodation and flight prices are more affordable.
Of course, it's crucial to remember that certain major events or holidays may impact your visit. For example, the French National Day on July 14th might result in a crowded city, but it equally presents an unmatched opportunity to partake in fantastic celebrations. Similarly, the Paris Fashion Week in late September could see a surge in city activity.
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When it comes to the weather, winters may be on the cooler side, and summers can be warm, but rest assured that Paris is a city that exudes charm all year round. Each season brings its own unique allure. Therefore, always remember to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.
How do I get to Paris?
The most common way to get to Paris is by flying into one of its two major airports, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), the largest, and Orly Airport (ORY). From Charles de Gaulle, you can take the RER B train which goes directly to central Paris. From Orly, you can take the Orlyval metro service to Antony station (runs every 5-7 minutes) and then switch to the RER B train to reach the city center. Uber and taxis are also available at a higher price. Be sure to book a taxi at the designated kiosk at the airports to avoid scams.
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Besides flying, Paris is well-connected to many European cities by train. The Eurostar connects Paris with London, while the Thalys train network links Paris with Amsterdam, Brussels, and Cologne. The TGV high-speed trains also provide direct routes from cities like Zurich, Munich, and Barcelona. These train services arrive at various stations in Paris, including Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est, and Gare de Lyon
What is the best way to get around Paris?
The best way to get around Paris is a combination of walking and using public transit. The Paris Metro and bus systems are extensive, reliable, and relatively inexpensive. You can purchase single tickets or a travel card for unlimited travel within certain zones. We recommend downloading the Bonjour RATP app to see how much the fare will cost for your specific itinerary, as well as, purchase tickets from the convenience of your phone.
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Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available. However, they can be more expensive, especially during peak traffic times. Paris is also a very walkable city with many of its major attractions within walking distance of each other.
For shorter distances, consider renting a bike. The city has a public bike-sharing system called Vélib', which is easy to use and accessible throughout the city. Always remember to follow the rules of the road when cycling in Paris.
Accommodation
Where should I stay in Paris?
In Paris, some of the best neighborhoods for tourists include Le Marais, Saint Germain, the Latin Quarter, and Montmartre. These areas are centrally located and offer a variety of attractions, dining options, and accommodations.
Le Marais is known for its historical sites, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Search hotels in Le Marais here.
Saint Germain is a classy neighborhood with plenty of cafes, galleries, and shops. "Hotel Bel Ami" is a chic option for your stay here.
The Latin Quarter is a lively and youthful area due to its proximity to the Sorbonne University.
Montmartre is famous for its bohemian past and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
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For budget travelers, hostels like "Vintage Paris Gare du Nord by Hiphophostels" and "Generator Paris" are good options. Vacation rentals are also widely available on platforms such as Airbnb, providing the opportunity to experience Paris like a local.
J&L Lodging Recommendations:
Attractions and Activities
What are the must-see attractions in Paris?
The must-see attractions in Paris include iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Champs-Élysées, Sacré-Cœur, and Montmartre. To skip the lines at popular sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, consider purchasing your tickets in advance. The Eiffel Tower can be purchased up to 2 months in advance and the Louvre up to 4 month in advance. Book these attractions as soon as can in order to avoid the long lines in person.
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As for hidden gems, consider visiting the Promenade Plantée, a beautiful elevated park perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The Catacombs of Paris offer a fascinating and eerie journey into the city's past. Sainte Chapelle, although not as unknown, is often overshadowed by Notre Dame, but it offers stunning stained glass windows. The Canal Saint-Martin area offers a less touristy Parisian experience with its trendy boutiques and cafes. We also enjoyed the lesser-known Rue Mouffetard with its cobblestone streets and Jardin des Plantes in the Latin Quarter.
What should I know about visiting museums in Paris?
Visiting museums in Paris can be an enriching experience. Paris offers the Paris Museum Pass, which provides entry to over 60 museums and monuments in and around Paris. This pass is available for 2, 4, or 6 consecutive days. It allows unlimited visits and lets you skip the line at some of the busiest sites, but note that booking a slot may still be required at some museums.
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As for opening hours, most museums in Paris are open from 9 or 10 AM until 5 or 6 PM, and many are closed one day a week, often on Monday or Tuesday. However, hours can vary, so it is best to check the official websites of the museums you plan to visit. For example, the Louvre is open every day except Tuesday from 9 AM to 6 PM, while the d'Orsay Museum is open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM every day except Monday (recommended to book in advance, up to 3 months. Note: the first Sunday of the month is always free!). Be sure to check for any special late-night openings or holiday closures as well.
What are some day trips from Paris?
Some popular day trips from Paris include Versailles, Giverny, and the Loire Valley.
Versailles: Versailles is easily accessible from Paris via the RER C train. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Once you arrive, you can explore the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the stunning gardens, and the charming town.
Giverny: To visit Giverny, where Claude Monet's house and garden are located, you can take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon (about a 50-minute journey), then take a shuttle bus to Giverny (around 8 minutes).
Loire Valley: Visiting the Loire Valley from Paris, known for its beautiful castles and vineyards, is a bit more complicated. The journey by train can take about an hour and a half to two hours, depending on which part of the Loire Valley you are visiting. The cities of Tours and Blois are good starting points for exploring the region. From there, you can rent a car or join a guided tour to visit the castles.
Food and Dining
What are the best places to eat in Paris?
Authentic French cuisine can be found all over Paris, but for a truly French culinary experience, consider visiting bistros such as "Bouillon Pigalle" in the Montmartre area, or "Bistrot Paul Bert" in the 11th arrondissement.
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For budget-friendly dining options, check out the Latin Quarter, known for its affordable eateries serving a variety of cuisines. Additionally, you can find delicious, inexpensive meals at street markets like the Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district, where vendors sell everything from crepes to Moroccan tagines. Don't forget that many bakeries also offer affordable and satisfying options like quiches and sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch.
What are the must-try craft beers of Paris? (for those over 18)
Paris boasts a growing craft beer scene with local breweries such as BAPBAP, Deck & Donohue, Paname Brewing Company, Brasserie Parisis, and Bar Gallia Paris offering unique and flavorful beers. These breweries, located throughout the city and its outskirts, offer guided tours, tastings, and taprooms to enjoy their diverse selections. Additionally, bars like Le Supercoin are notable for their wide variety of local and international craft beers. Exploring these breweries and bars provides a taste of the local craft beer culture in Paris.
What are some traditional French dishes I should try?
Traditional French dishes you should try include Coq au Vin (chicken cooked in red wine), Bouillabaisse (a Provencal fish stew), Ratatouille (a vegetable stew), Quiche Lorraine (a savory pie), and Escargot de Bourgogne (snails in garlic-herb butter).
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For pastries, Paris is renowned for its bakeries or 'boulangeries'. You must try the flaky croissants and buttery pain au chocolat. Some of the best croissants can be found at La Maison d'Isabelle in the Latin Quarter, which won the award for Best Croissant in Paris.
For macarons, head to Ladurée or Pierre Hermé. Ladurée is a historic patisserie known for its double-decker macarons. Pierre Hermé, often referred to as the 'Picasso of Pastry', is renowned for his creative flavor combinations.
Cultural Tips
What should I know about French culture and etiquette?
When visiting France, it's important to be aware of some cultural customs and etiquette. The French often greet each other with a light kiss on both cheeks, although a handshake is common in professional settings. It's also customary to say "Bonjour" (Good day) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening) when entering shops, restaurants, or when addressing someone for the first time in the day.
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When it comes to dining, it is polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and remember to say "Bon appétit" before starting to eat. The French take their food seriously, so avoid eating on the go and take the time to sit down and enjoy your meal.
In terms of tipping, service charge is usually included in your bill in restaurants and cafes. However, it's customary to leave small change or round up the bill if the service was good. Leaving around 5-10% of the total bill is a good rule of thumb for exceptional service.
Practical Information
What are the safety tips for tourists in Paris?
Paris is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips:
Avoid Common Scams: Beware of street scams such as the gold ring scam, where someone pretends to find a gold ring on the ground and offers it to you for a price. Another common scam is the petition scam, where individuals will ask you to sign a petition and then demand a cash donation. Always be wary of strangers approaching you with a too-good-to-be-true offer or distracting tactics.
Beware of Pickpockets: Pickpocketing can be a problem, especially in crowded areas like tourist hotspots, metro trains, and stations. Keep your belongings secure and close to your body. Consider using anti-theft bags or keep your wallet in your front pocket. Be particularly careful when using your phone in public spaces.
Areas to Avoid: While most areas in Paris are safe during the day, some areas can be less safe at night. These include certain outer suburbs and the areas around major train stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est. Always research the safety of the area where you plan to stay or visit, especially if you plan to be out late at night.
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As always, if you're unsure about anything, ask local advice from your hotel or other trustworthy sources. Traveling from the United States? Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and be notified by the US embassy of important safety conditions in your destination country.
What is the currency and how do I handle money in Paris?
The currency in Paris is the Euro (€). You can exchange money at banks, post offices, some large hotels, and bureaux de change (exchange bureaus) which are found in major train stations and airports. However, please be aware that these places might charge fees or offer unfavorable exchange rates. An alternative is to withdraw Euros directly from ATMs, which are widely available throughout Paris and often offer better exchange rates (sign up for the free Charles Schwab Platinum Debit Card which automatically reimburses any ATM fees charged worldwide, no limits!). Additionally, inquire with your bank in the United States about ordering Euros ahead of your trip to take with you. This is one of the best ways to avoid paying extra exchange/ATM fees.
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It's advisable to use credit cards where possible for larger purchases as they provide a secure method of payment and usually offer good exchange rates. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Paris, although American Express is less so. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with foreign transactions.
Also, always have some cash on hand for smaller establishments like cafés and bakeries that may not accept cards, or for any emergencies.
What should I pack for a trip to Paris?
For a trip to Paris, it's important to pack comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely be exploring the city on foot. Depending on the season, pack lightweight clothing for summer and warm, layered clothing for winter. Always carry a light rain jacket or umbrella as Paris can be rainy.
A small backpack or crossbody bag would be useful for carrying essentials while keeping your hands free. Don't forget a plug adapter for European outlets if you're traveling from outside Europe.
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As Paris is a fashion-forward city, you may want to pack smart casual clothing for evenings out. If you plan to visit any high-end restaurants or attend the theater, you might need more formal attire. Lastly, pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Language
Do I need to speak French to visit Paris?
While knowledge of French can enhance your experience, it is not necessary to speak French to visit Paris. English is widely spoken in most tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, learning a few key phrases in French can be appreciated and helpful. These include "Bonjour" (Hello), "Merci" (Thank you), "S'il vous plaît" (Please), "Où sont les toilettes?" (Where are the toilets?), "Combien ça coûte?" (How much does it cost?), and "Parlez-vous anglais?" (Do you speak English?).
Itinerary Planning
How many days should I spend in Paris?
A good rule of thumb is to spend at least 4 to 5 days in Paris. This allows enough time to see the major sights, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées, while leaving room for relaxation and exploration at a leisurely pace.
To plan an itinerary, start by listing the attractions you most want to see and grouping them by location to minimize travel time. For example, you might spend one day exploring the Eiffel Tower and the nearby Seine River, another day at the Louvre and Notre-Dame, and a third day in Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. Remember to factor in time for meals and rest breaks.
Balancing sightseeing with relaxation can be achieved by not over-scheduling. Include free time each day to wander through Paris's charming neighborhoods, sit in a café, or relax in a park. Also, consider a day trip to Versailles or Giverny for a change of pace. Remember, part of the joy of travel is soaking up the ambiance, not just crossing off attractions on a list.
In conclusion, planning a trip to Paris is an exciting endeavor that offers a wealth of experiences. From the iconic landmarks to the exquisite cuisine, the City of Light never fails to captivate its visitors. With careful preparation and an open mind, you'll create unforgettable memories and truly understand why Paris is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Bon voyage!
This has been incredibly helpful in planning our upcoming trip!