Paris travel guide

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Introduction to Paris

Welcome to Paris, the enchanting capital of France! This major European city is renowned for its art, fashion, gastronomy, and culture. Situated along the Seine River, Paris boasts a captivating blend of historical landmarks and modern charm.

Paris is visited by tourists from around the world for its famous attractions, like the iconic Eiffel Tower. Other popular sights include the Louvre Museum and the Arc de Triomphe. Visitors can also explore the city's 19th-century cityscape, crisscrossed by wide boulevards, and discover the Gothic splendor of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Paris offers countless activities, from historical and walking tours to river cruises and bus tours. Enjoy traditional French dishes, Parisian cafes, and world-class dining after wandering the city's charming streets. For more information on the city's events, visit the official website of Paris.

In Paris, the scent of coffee in quaint cafes and the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower create a romantic ambiance steeped in history. Experience this blend of timeless elegance, artistic flair, and joie de vivre (zest of life) that will stay with you long after your visit.

History of Paris

Paris, often referred to as 'The City of Light', is a city steeped in history and culture. The history of Paris dates back to the 3rd century BC when it was inhabited by a Celtic tribe known as the Parisii.

In the 12th century, Paris emerged as a hub for university education, drawing students from across Europe. It underwent a significant transformation in the middle of the 19th century under Napoleon III, when Baron Haussmann redesigned large parts of the city with wide boulevards and beautiful parks.

Paris was at the forefront of many major historical events of the 20th century, including both World Wars and the 1968 student protests.

Today, Paris retains its historical charm while also being a modern, vibrant city. It is renowned for its art, fashion, gastronomy, and culture, making it one of the world's most visited cities.

Top services in Paris

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Paris, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Paris, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Paris by browsing over 3761 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 9 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Paris with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Paris from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Paris with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Paris travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Paris!

Best time to visit Paris

The best time to explore Paris is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally mild and enjoyable, perfect for strolling through the city and visiting outdoor attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Palace of Versailles. Additionally, these off-peak seasons offer fewer crowds, allowing you to fully enjoy the city's charm without the tourist rush. Paris is also known for its vibrant events calendar. In spring, the Paris Marathon and the Nuit des Musées provide unique experiences, while fall brings the Montmartre Wine Harvest Festival and the Nuit Blanche, an all-night cultural extravaganza. However, if you don't mind the cold, winter in Paris, especially December, offers a magical experience with Christmas markets, festive lights, and less crowd. Regardless of when you choose to visit, plan your itinerary wisely to maximize your Parisian adventure.

Weather in Paris

Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its temperate oceanic climate. The weather is generally mild and moderately rainy throughout the year, with an average annual temperature of around 12°C (54°F). The winters, from December to February, are chilly but rarely freezing, with temperatures typically between 3°C and 6°C (37°F-43°F). Snow is rare but possible. Springtime, from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperature and sunshine, although sudden showers are common. The summer season, from June to August, is warm and sunny, with average highs around 25°C (77°F) but can occasionally reach up to 30°C (86°F). Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall.

Rain in Paris is quite common, with light showers spread throughout the year. Therefore, carrying an umbrella or raincoat could be a wise decision. Furthermore, Paris can sometimes experience heatwaves in summer and chilly winds in winter. Visitors should check the forecast before their trip to pack appropriate clothing.

Local tip for visiting Paris

When in Paris, the insider tip is to take full advantage of the 'Nocturnes.' Several museums and attractions in Paris, including the Louvre and Quai Branly, stay open late one or two nights a week, typically until 9:30 pm or 10 pm. These 'Nocturnes' are not only a great way to fit more sightseeing into your schedule, but they also provide a different ambiance compared to the regular daytime visits. The crowds are usually smaller, the lighting often more dramatic, and the overall experience can be more memorable. Additionally, some venues offer reduced prices or even free admissions on these nights. Therefore, when planning your itinerary, do not forget to check the late openings of the museums and attractions. This insider tip will surely elevate your Parisian cultural experience.

Learn more about France

With destinations such as Paris, a trip to France needs no further explanation. Spanning over 643,801 square kilometers, France is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, France has something to enchant every traveler.

In Paris alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe. Thus, a trip to France becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, France offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in France. Click or tap the link below to discover more about France and its offers.

What to see in Paris

Photo of Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Paris, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Paris offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Paris travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Paris

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Paris is more than just a wonderful city in France. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into France's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Paris is the unforgettable Eiffel Tower. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Paris. This remarkable attraction is located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 09:30-22:45.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Paris, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Paris, including the fascinating Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Paris.

Things to do in Paris

Photo of Pont Alexandre III, Alexander 3 Bridge, in Paris, France.

You've explored Paris's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Paris. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Paris, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Paris

A visit to Paris gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, Bus Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Paris, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Paris. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Paris offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Paris

In Paris, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Activities.

Activities offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Paris. For example, the fantastic 1h30 - Louvre Highlights optional 'families with kids' - Eng/Esp.

Paris also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Transfer from/to PARIS<=>NORMANDY (DEAUVILLE, MONT ST MICHEL), for example, is the cheapest Roundtrip Port Transfer option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Paris adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Paris right below.

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All Experiences in Paris

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Search for things to do in Paris

Discover the best things to do in Paris. Choose from 3761 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Paris. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Paris.

What to eat in Paris

Paris, known as the culinary capital of the world, offers a rich and diverse gastronomical experience. From the cozy cafés along the Seine to the bustling bistros in the Latin Quarter, you will find some of the best places to eat in Paris. While here, indulge in traditional Parisian dishes such as Coq au Vin, Escargot, and Crêpes, available across the city. For a taste of the local street food, head to Rue Mouffetard or Rue des Rosiers for their famous Falafel. If you fancy fine dining, Le Meurice and L'Ambroisie offer exquisite French cuisine. Remember, dining in Paris is not just about the food, but also about the experience. Many Parisians spend hours over a meal, so don't feel rushed. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine for an authentic Parisian dining experience. And of course, no trip to Paris is complete without tasting the city's famous pastries. Visit the renowned Ladurée for their world-famous macarons.

Best Free Things to Do in Paris

Paris, the City of Lights, is not just for those with deep pockets. There are plenty of best free things to do in Paris that can make your visit memorable without burning a hole in your pocket. Start with strolling along the Seine, absorbing the city's ambiance, and spotting famous landmarks. Head to the ‘Parc de la Villette’, Paris's largest park, for a picnic or to engage in free cultural events. Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, and marvel at its grandeur. The first Sunday of every month offers free admission to many museums, including the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, where you can admire world-renowned masterpieces. Explore the vibrant streets of the Montmartre district, famous for its artistic history, and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic city views. Don’t forget to visit the Pere Lachaise Cemetery, the final resting place of many famous personalities. Lastly, enjoy a magical light show at the Eiffel Tower after sunset. These activities truly capture the spirit of Paris, proving that the best experiences often come free of charge.

How to get to Paris

International travelers can fly to Paris by booking flights with Air France, Transavia France, easyJet, Air Corsica, and Eurowings, offering flights to Paris Orly, Charles de Gaulle Airport, and Beauvais–Tillé. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Paris.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Paris, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Paris. Go to this page to compare all flights to Paris.

Find cheap flights to Paris

Photo of Consiergerie, Pont Neuf and Seine river at sunny summer sunset, Paris, France

Booking budget-friendly flights to Paris is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Paris. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Paris, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Paris even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Paris both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Paris

Travelers visiting Paris can easily access the city via Paris Orly, Charles de Gaulle Airport, and Beauvais–Tillé, offering direct connection to 1333 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Paris below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Paris and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Paris

Cozy street in quarter Montmartre in Paris, France.

To navigate Paris effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 9 car rental companies in Paris, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Paris start at 29 EUR per day or 206 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500E Electric. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Paris, starting at 28 EUR per day or 195 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo X.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Paris, France below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Paris

Renting a car in Paris is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Paris, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Paris for your upcoming adventures in France below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Paris

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Paris. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Paris, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Paris

An  overview of the Eiffel Tower and Paris, France from the Arc de Triomphe.

The city of Paris is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

Each destination in France offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Paris. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Paris

Champs-Elysées in Paris, France.

Experience the authentic charm of France by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Paris. Explore other destinations around France with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Paris to other amazing locations in France, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in France for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Paris.

Popular domestic flights from Paris

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Perpignan, Nice, Nantes, Montpellier, and Marseille. Domestic flights in France are operated by 9 airlines, including Air France, Transavia France, easyJet, Air Corsica, and Eurowings. There are around 38 scheduled flight routes operating to Paris on a weekly basis.

From Paris, travelers can book scheduled flights to 27 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Paris depart to many top-rated destinations in France and are offered by Air France, Transavia France, and easyJet.

Search domestic flights from Paris

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Paris to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

Transportation in Paris

Paris, the stunning capital of France, offers an array of transportation options tailored to suit every traveler's needs.

The city's public transit system, which includes the Metro, buses, and trams, is extensive and efficient. The Metro, with its 16 lines and over 300 stations, is one of the easiest ways to get around the city. Buses and trams also cover a wide area, making it simple to reach your destination.

Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient and comfortable way to navigate the city, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group.

For those who prefer to drive, rental car services are available. Bear in mind that Parisian traffic can be hectic, and parking can be challenging in the city center.

For a truly unique Parisian experience, try taking a Bateau Mouche, a boat that cruises along the Seine River. It's a romantic and leisurely way to see the city's famous landmarks. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or electric scooter, both popular modes of transport among locals and tourists alike.

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