Why Paris?
The “City of Light” draws millions of visitors each year with its enchanting atmosphere. The delightful cuisine and extensive art collections also contribute to its allure. The tranquil River Seine flows through the city, bordered by impressive museums, historic churches, and blocks of Rococo and Neoclassical architecture, all highlighted by cascading trees and glowing streetlamps. Along the Seine’s cobblestone paths and elegant bridges, you’ll find impeccably stylish Parisians, likely on their way to a market, café, or cinema.
Home to world-class museums, fashion, cuisine, and a unique ambiance, Paris is a city of “many splendors,” as Ernest Hemingway described in his memoir, “A Moveable Feast.” Explore the renowned Musée d’Orsay, shop at the top designers on the Champs Élysées, or browse the boutiques in Le Marais. Take in the breathtaking views from the top of the Eiffel Tower, or plan a day trip to the magnificent Versailles Palace. But don’t overlook the simple joys of wandering through the marvelous arrondissements (districts) or enjoying street crepes.
What to Eat in Paris
Paris, like many other global cities, boasts a vast array of restaurants offering everything from Asian fusion to modern bistro fare. Given France’s influence on global culinary arts, the food in Paris is exceptional. You’ll find upscale dining options in the 1st arrondissement and in Marais, as well as around the Champs-Elysées and the Eiffel Tower. The 2nd arrondissement and Montmartre are known for their affordable eateries and charming cafes.
Wherever you choose to eat, be sure to try some classic French dishes such as soupe à l’oignon gratinée (French onion soup), croque-monsieur (a grilled ham and cheese sandwich topped with more cheese), steak frites (steak and fries), and coquilles St-Jacques (seasoned scallops with cheese and breadcrumbs, served in a shell). Those with a sweet tooth will want to sample French desserts like macarons, pain au chocolat (chocolate croissants), puits d’amour (large puff pastries filled with vanilla cream and drizzled with caramel sauce), and crêpes (filled with options like Nutella, bananas, and berries).
For a quick meal – pick up a baguette sandwich at a traiteur or enjoy a savory crêpe from a crêperie or crepe stand. You can savor drinks like chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) and café crème (coffee with cream) at any of the city’s numerous cafes. To save money, visit a local grocery store for snacks. Affordable bistros and brasseries are plentiful, but for a splurge, try fine-dining establishments like Guy Savoy, Bistrot Paul Bert, or Chez André, among others.
Renowned food enthusiast Julia Child authored “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” because preparing French cuisine is indeed an art. The meticulous attention to detail in French specialties such as wine, cheese, and pastries reflects the dedication put into each meal. Take your time enjoying your French dining experience, savoring each bite. And remember, keep your elbows off the table! For a comprehensive introduction to the Parisian food scene, consider joining a guided food tour.
Best Times To Visit Paris
The best time to visit Paris is from June to August and September to October. Both summer and fall have its ups and downs. From June to August the weather in Paris is just about parfait (perfect). Average highs are in the high 70s and there are long days of sunshine. Unfortunately, summer is also the most crowded time – and the most expensive. For lower travel rates and significantly shorter lines at attractions, plan a visit in the fall. The seasonal foliage is known to stun, though the city’s spring blooms are pretty famous too. If a travel deal is all that you’re after, a visit during the winter will surely shave off travel expenses. Keep in mind though that Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, seeing upward of 30 million travelers yearly. So no matter what time you visit, there will always be tourists and some crowds.
Getting Around Paris
Walking and using the metro are the best ways to explore Paris. The city’s elegant arrondissements are perfect for pedestrians, though the efficient metro system is ideal for covering longer distances. The Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP) operates both the metro and several bus routes throughout the city. If you’re arriving by plane, you can land at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), located about 22 miles northeast of the city center, or Paris Orly Airport (ORY), approximately 11 miles south of the city.
To get from CDG to the city center, you can take buses No. 350 or No. 351, an RER train (with an airport shuttle connecting to the Terminal 2 RER station and Roissypole RER), or the RoissyBus. For late-night arrivals, the Noctilien night bus runs from midnight to 4:30 a.m. From ORY, travelers can take a shuttle to the nearest RER station (Pont de Rungis) or the Orlyval shuttle train to the Antony RER station. Both RER stations connect directly to Paris. Taxis are also an option but can be quite costly, averaging between 30 and 55 euros (approximately $33 to $61). Driving in Paris is generally not recommended.
For those traveling from other French or European cities, trains are a convenient option. SNCF rail and TGV high-speed trains operate throughout France and other European countries. Paris has six main train stations, which also serve as bus stops and metro stations, making it easy to reach your hotel. Additionally, you can travel from London to Paris via the Channel Tunnel (also known as the “chunnel”) with the Eurostar service.
On Foot
Walking is often the best way to get around, especially for travelers staying in the city center. Even if your hotel is not on the Champs-Élysées, Paris’ chic and compact neighborhoods are perfect for exploring on foot. Walking also allows you to fully appreciate the city’s famous architecture and magical atmosphere. If your accommodation is farther from the main attractions, the metro offers a quick and affordable alternative.
Metro
The metro, part of the RATP public transportation system, is easily accessible, cost-effective, and operates 16 extensive routes (numbered 1 to 14, with additional routes 3 bis and 7 bis) throughout Paris. Single tickets cost 1.90 euros ($2.12) for a one-way journey, but purchasing a book of 10 t+ tickets or a Mobilis day pass is more convenient. A book of 10 t+ tickets costs 16 euros ($17.83) for adults and 8 euros (about $9) for children.
If you’re unsure how much you’ll use public transportation, a Mobilis pass might be the better option. One-day Mobilis passes cost 7.30 euros (about $8.14) for travel within Zones 1 and 2, where most of Paris’ top attractions are located. Tickets can be bought at metro stations and tourist information centers. The metro runs daily from around 6 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. For specific timetables, check the RATP website, which also offers a route planner.
Train
The Réseau Express Régional (RER) trains operate five express routes (A through E) connecting Paris to surrounding suburbs. RER trains serve both Paris airports and provide easy access to the city center. The RER C train is the best way to reach Versailles Palace, though you can also use the RER trains to visit other towns and sites outside the city, including Disneyland Paris. Tickets can be purchased at any RER or metro station. RER ticket prices vary based on the distance traveled and hours are similar to the metro, though wait times may be longer.
Bus
RATP operates 59 bus lines throughout Paris and its suburbs. You can use t+ tickets and metro passes for bus trips. A ride costs the same as a metro trip unless you buy your ticket on the bus, which costs €1.90 ($2.50 USD). While buses are slower than the metro, they offer more scenic routes and longer schedules. Bus hours vary by line, generally running from Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with some lines operating until 12:30 a.m. The Noctilien night bus system covers routes from 12:30 a.m. to about 4 a.m.
Taxi
Paris has around 17,000 taxis and hire cars. Official taxis are marked with a Taxi Parisien sign on the roof, green when available and red when occupied. The meter starts at 2.60 euros (about $3), with rates increasing based on distance and time. Hailing a taxi on the street is possible, but it’s easier to wait at designated taxi ranks. Traffic can be heavy, even outside rush hours. Main taxi companies include Taxis G7, Alpha Taxis, and Taxis Bleus. Ride-hailing apps like Uber also operate in Paris.
Car
Driving in Paris is generally discouraged due to heavy traffic, confusing road signs, and limited parking. However, rental cars are available at airports and major train stations if you plan to explore outside the city.
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Sixt