The charm of Paris is so profound that everyone knows it’s a dazzling city. Artists, writers, journalists, playwrights, and poets throughout history have affirmed their marvel over Paris. It is a city that evinces sophistication, culture, style, and class. And as many have done, you will certainly fall in love with the City of Lights in epic proportions. I hope this Paris Travel Blog will help you in that regard.
Given the numerous things to do and see here, discovery the gems in Paris can feel almost impossible and overwhelming sometimes. That is why many tour operators help visitors, especially the first-timers, to maximize their time out. Employing the services of tour operators saves time and can be more educative than taking on the iconic monuments alone.
Interesting Travel Facts About Paris
If you’re planning a wonderful holiday to Paris, it’s always interesting to find out the facts about the city. Paris is a popular tourist destination filled with history and culture and over seventy museums where you can soak up the heritage of this magnificent city.
Whether you’re travelling for a weekend or a longer family break, it’s always great to know what Paris is all about.
- Paris is fondly named the City of Lights. While it lights up beautifully against the night sky, it’s not because of lights that it is named this. It is believed it is fondly named City of Lights due to the intellectual people who live there.
- Paris is widely known as the most romantic city in the world, which is why it’s such a popular tourist destination for couples and those travelling on honeymoons.
- Street signs were only placed in the city Centre in the early 1800s, before these visitors to the city were advised to climb the monuments to get a sense of their bearings and where they had to go.
- The famous Eiffel Tower caused a huge wave of concern among the scientists who believed that it could cause thunderstorms, changing the pleasant weather climate in the city.
- Paris City Centre is made up of twenty separate areas, each one is numbered in a clockwise direction. Often you will find locals referring to areas by the number it has been allocated rather than the name.
- All shops are usually open from 9am to 7pm. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. You may even find smaller stores are closed for the whole month of August.
- For Restaurants in Paris busiest times are between 8pm and 10pm. There are a lot of bistros and cafes should you wish to dine earlier.
We Have Compiled This Paris Travel Guide To Explore Paris Like a Local:
Language
Well, no prizes for guessing! French is the native language, but English and other European languages are not a rarity in the city. To have an interesting time in Paris, we suggest that you learn as many French phraseologies as possible. Interacting with locals in the language will go a long way in enhancing your traveling experience.
Even if you can only muster Bonjour and merci beaucoup, you tend to connect to the city on a cultural level. And you can take your French up a notch by learning words for market haggling. It will help you get the best deals on items.
Currency
Yes, it’s the Euro. Throughout France and in most parts of the continent, Euro is the legal tender. But ensure you avoid the exchangers at the airport if you can. Their rates can be very high. Do proper research on where best a visitor can exchange currency in Paris.
Credit Cards and Bank Cards
ATMs are at all tourist areas like restaurants and hotels. Be advised that while ATMs helps to move cashless, you should have few euros on you, as some retailers (though few) do not accept cards. In addition, attempt to withdraw a large sum if you must withdraw at the ATM. There are charges on every transaction made, and withdrawing a low sum would not be budget-friendly for you.
Shops and cafes are more expensive, especially the ones at the major attractions like the Arc de Triumph and the Eiffel Tower. To beat this, stroll a few blocks from the main spots to find more legit and reasonably affordable spots to get your purchase. You should know that in Paris, the touristy areas are incredibly pricey. Getting items from places mostly frequented by locals will help a great deal in spending reasonably.
Climate
In Paris, the weather is generally mild for the most part of the year with a decent amount of rain. The cold season spans November and February when daytime temperatures rarely get beyond ten degrees Celsius. The hottest months in the French capital are between July and August.
Getting Around in Paris
The city is separated into 20 arrondissements, also known as districts. Each of them offers a distinct taste of Paris, but these are the most popular:
Le Marais: Situated in the third and fourth districts, this area of the city has, for a long while, been an abode for aristocrats. Today, it is a buzzing Jewish community with some of Paris’s best art galleries and hotels. Also, check out the Marais Paris Guide.
1st Arrondissement: This area is home to lots of Paris’ major spots like the Louvre and the Royal Palace. If you are a first-timer here, starting your Paris trip from here will be a good idea.
8th Arrondissement: A widely known part of the city where many incredible palaces like the Champs-Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe are located.
11th Arrondissement: This is also popular for those who are looking to have a splendid night out in Paris. Restaurants and clubs here are impressive, and you will also find the Edith Piaf Museum there.
La Defense: Just at Paris’ edge is the La Defense, where some stunning modern artworks are displayed. The architecture here is something to adore. This is among the city’s major business centers.
>>Paris Neighborhood Guide, Montmartre Paris Guide
Transportation Around Paris
Public transportation in the French capital is quite an inexpensive way of moving around. For those visiting the city on a budget, they will find the transport system here easy and useful. While the likes of Uber and cabs are expensive, they have their use too. Heading to somewhere farther will mean you get either a cab or the ride-hailing service. However, walking on foot is the best way to see Paris. You get to see the popular sites clearly and meet locals on the way.
>>Public Transport Guide For Paris
Here Are Some Transport Options:
Metro
The city’s public transport system is among the world’s most efficient and expansive. Every block has a subway (metro) stop and is quite cheap. For people under 26, the price is discounted on weekends and holidays, and if your French is so good, you can ask for reduced charges.
RER Train
This is a train that has about 5 lines that service the city and Ile-de-France. The RER train works like the metro and even uses the tickets the latter has. In the case that you have a connecting trip with the metro, the ticket can be used.
Bus
In the city’s metro network alone, there are about 64 bus lines. And if you have a single-use bus/metro ticket, it goes for about 1.90 euros, or you purchase a ticket on the bus for 2 euro.
Tram
4 tram lines service the city, and they all work on the same ticketing system, just like the bus, RER, and metro.
Bike-sharing
The city has a public bike-sharing scheme, the Velib. The service allows you to borrow a bike for as long as you want. Paris is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world as there are many bike routes scattered around.
Taxi
Cabs here are expensive regardless of the distance, but they are useful for long trips. Avoid them if you are on a budget.
Uber
The ride-hailing service is available in Paris. In the case that you have luggage to carry, perhaps from the airport, an Uber can help comfortably with that.
Check Out: Best Ways to Get Around in Paris
When to Visit Paris
With Paris, anytime is a good time, but the best time to visit is May, June, September, and October. Then, the crowds will fewer, and while the weather is warm and sunny. Temperatures are usually around 20-23 degrees Celsius makes it a perfect time to meander around the city.
Activities and accommodation tend to be cheaper these periods as well.
In the summer, accommodation tends to be the most expensive as the crowds come in their droves. That means the queues at popular touristy spots become longer, but winter can be chilly. And the best part of the city during the period are the amazing views you would not forget easily. If you are looking to see the museums and historic sites, winter is the best time for that.
Safety in Paris
The city is mostly safe, and the chances of getting into trouble are low. But pickpocketing has to be the biggest concern for tourists, especially on public transport. Do not stroll around at night yourself in certain areas like Jaures, Gare du Nord, Les Halles, and Stalingrad.
Parisians are very helpful and friendly but always trust your gut instinct. Then stay away from isolated areas at night and be mindful of people who are excessively friendly. They might just have heinous intentions. In addition, do not take out with you the original copies of your documents. Ensure you make photocopies of your passport and ID.
Ensure you also buy good travel insurance as they will protect against unforeseen contingencies like injury, theft, illness, and cancellations. It makes you relax without worrying too much.
If you visit Paris with a motorcycle, make sure to get a good motorcycle insurance to cover you in case of an accident. Visiting Paris with a motorcycle can be a very good idea because you will maximize sightseeing and you will save a lot of money and time on parking. Just make sure to do it right with proper insurance.
Read: Common Tourist Scams In Paris, Paris Safety Tips, Areas To Avoid In Paris
Where to Stay in Paris
Airbnb
This is an online market place where people can choose accommodation apart from hotels. Airbnb affords the chance of searching online for renting a room or a flat, but it is not common among tourists as they prefer the hotels. The service costs less, one will have personal space, and it affords the chance to make new friends.
Stay in Style
Paris is home to some incredible, jaw-dropping homes that cater to a wide range of budgets. You’ll have your own luxurious space in your short stay accommodation in Paris and you’ll be spoilt for choice with the options on offer. Located throughout the City, you’ll never be too far from the tourist hotspots & sights.
Hotels
In Paris alone, there are over 2200 hotels, and they provide basic amenities for visitors. A good number of them are booked in the entire year because the city attracts many. Online, you can find stylish, romantic, and luxurious hotels throughout your stay in the city. There are different hotels, cheap ones, reasonably affordable ones, and expensive ones.
Lodging in a hotel has its various advantages. For a start, you get a great view of the surrounding, especially if the hotel is located in a nice place. From the window or the terrace, while dining, you can take in the magnificent views the area has to offer.
Also, luxuries in hotels are particularly great. Spas, massage centers, swimming pools, bars, and recreational centers make up most of the luxuries in the best hotels in Paris. Most travelers tend to enjoy using the luxuries of wherever they visit, and it is for their comfort. Recently I read a very informative article about the great hotels in Paris and I am leaving it here if you are interested.
Another perk of lodging in a hotel are chores you get to avoid. While in a hotel, you do not have to manage the expectation of doing the chores yourself while on your trip. The hotel management will be responsible for luggage, dining, laundry, and cleaning.
A nice place to lodge in Paris is at Montorgueil. There, Hotel National des Arts et Metiers is located. After a busy day of sightseeing and other activities, you can dine at its rooftop, which is an idyllic spot to view Paris. Also in the area is the bar Herbarium, where you will meet lots of hip young Parisians.
Also Read: Hotel or AirBnB in Paris, Best Hotels In Paris, Accommodation In Paris
Things to do in Paris
See the Museums
There are plenty of spectacular museums in Paris to explore. The popular Louvre Museum enjoys a global reputation, but there are lots of other great art repositories in Paris. The Musee d’Orsay is awesome and is popular for its impressionist pieces. The Rodin Museum, Holocaust museum, the Musee d’Orangerie, and a host of other impressive ones. You can also get a museum pass that can take you to any museum in Paris. A two-day pass costs about 48 euros while a six-day pass could be as low as 74 euro.
Stroll Along the Champs Elysees
This is a popular side of the French capital. It has cafes, cinemas, and shops for luxury specialties. In fact, Champs Elysees is among the world’s most popular streets and its courses from Arc de Triomphe to the Louvre. The area is often busy and expensive, as one will expect, but it is an excellent spot for some picture shots during the day and night out activities.
Go to the Panthéon
Situated in the Latin Quarter, Panthéon is a neoclassical building used to be a church before it was transformed into a state burial place for fallen French heroes. Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, Louis Braille, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Voltaire are honored there. The building was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Admission is as low as 9 euro.
Chill at Jardin du Luxembourg
This is the most massive public park in the French capital. Jardin du Luxembourg boasts over more than 100 statues, fountains, and monuments, all placed throughout the grounds. The place is perfect for picnics with loved ones.
Also: Best Parks to Go For a Run in Paris, Best Things To Do In France
See Paris from Montmartre
Some of the most splendid views of Paris are in Montmartre. It is marked with bars, cafes, arty, and old winery, and cobblestone streets, this place ranks high among the chicest areas in the capital. Gertrude Stein and Ernst Hemmingway are known to hang out in Montmartre when they were in the city.
Visit the Notre Dame
Notre Dame was constructed between 1163-1334. When you visit, you should hop from the north tower to the south to wonder at the masonry and get a good view of the Gallery of Chimeras. The beats and birds gazing at the balustrade are a sight to see. Climbing the tower costs as low as 10 euro and it is opened from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm daily except on holidays.
>>Cathedrals Worth Visiting In Paris
Stand Akimbo Under the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is situated in the heart of the Place Charles de Gaulle. Visitors will climb its 284 steps to reach the apex then learn about Paris’ rich history and see the amazing views from up there.
Celebrate Bastille Day
If you happen to be in France on the 14th of July, it is a chance to celebrate Bastille Day, which is a series of incredible events in the capital where the nation marks the storming of the Bastille during the Revolution in 1789. Usually, there is a widely televised parade and continuous pyrotechnics, especially at Jardin du Trocadero or Champ de Mars. Bastille Day is marked French independence and is one of the most bubbling days here.
Experience the Cinema en Plein Air
The city rolls out a massive screen in the Parc de la Villette every July and August for the outdoor cinema event in the 9th district. Locals love it as they celebrate with food and wine. What is more- it is free.
Check out Maison du Victor Hugo
The lovely Maison du Victor Hugo is a residence that dates back to 1605. The building used to be the home of Victor Hugo, the famous writer who got there at the age of 30. The place is now a museum dedicated to him and his writing. The museum is not large, but it is interesting, and it is opened every day from 10 am to 6 pm except on Mondays.
Also Read: Things To Do In Paris When It’s Raining, Best Day Trips from Paris, Best Things to Do in Paris at Night
Shop like a local
Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and its shops have the very best of designer items. Here are some outfits to check out:
Le Centre Commercial: This chic boutique is located in the east of the capital, You will find lots of the latest brands on display like Roseanna and Valentine Gauthier.
Biba: Biba is a small boutique but has a swelling reputation for quality and luxury. It has been in operation since 1973 and is a brilliant spot for a weekend pick-me-up.
La Patisserie de Christophe Michalak: Along with the French pastries, visitors will find cakes, bars of chocolates, and cookbooks here. It is located at 16 Rue de la Verrerie.
La Rue du Nil and the Terroirs d’Avenirs shops: On this street, you will find a grocery store, a fishmonger, and a bakery, which are all common destinations for locals. The Frenchie To-Go and Frenchie Wine Bar are worth visiting.
Go on a Drinking Spree
Bars in Paris are quite the ones to surprise. Here are some places you can visit on a drinking spree around the city:
Le Syndicat: This place is something close to a speaksay cocktail bar where some unique and obscure French spirits are served. It is located at 51 Rue du Faubourg St-Denis.
Mabel: Mabel is a cocktail spot with a mid-century vibe that focuses on cheese sandwiches and rum. It is located at 58 Rue d’Aboukir.
Glass: This place is owned by one of the world’s most talented mixologists. Glass is a cocktail bar that doubles as a live music venue located in the bubbling Pigalle neighborhood. They also serve Latin-American drinks.
>>Affordable Drinks in Paris Articles
Step In The Catacombs
Below, the city is a labyrinth of graves. During the Second World War, the French resistance used the tunnels, but in the 90s, parties and funfairs were held there. This place is the real hidden element of the city. And when you step in, you see the tunnels that have signposts and history boards that tell a tale about it.
8 minutes after entry, you will see the Catacombs, an underground cemetery. You may not have seen lots of human skeleton like that before, as there are many skulls intricately arranged to make a long wall of bony pieces. But things can be quickly frightening as soon as you realize that the skeletons used to be actual living people.
Also Read: Why You Should Visit the Catacombs of Paris, Unconventional Things to Do in Paris
Dance Throughout the Night
The Carribean, African, Classic jazz, or pop, the clubs in Paris have an impressive range of options for partiers. If you are a jazz lover, you will be spoiled for choice here.
Walk in the Midst of the Tombstones
Pere-Lachaise graveyard is the city’s most popular cemetery. It is a quiet and terrifyingly beautiful place worth a visit. Looking closely, you will see the graves of a few famous people like Oscar Wilde, Chopin, and Jim Morrison.
>>Cemeteries Worth Visiting In Paris, Famous People Buried In Paris
Visit the Memorial de la Shoah
Though it has an impressive exhibit on anti-Semitism, France, and the Holocaust, this place seldom charm visitors. It is a very underrated spot, but you should visit when you are around.
Take a Walking Tour
There are many dozens of companies that operate tours across Paris. The likes of New Europe’s tour is free, and they will take you throughout the city and give a historical education you should have. Walk tours will skip rides to big attractions like the museums.
Take a Food Tour of Paris
In Paris, you should enjoy the food. And if you do not know where to start, there are food tour operators to lead the way. And if you will rather go solo, you can visit restaurants to savor the tastiest of meals on the continent.
How to Spend a Weekend in Paris
In 2019, I was fortunate enough to spend one weekend in Paris. Although I had time constraints, I was determined to get the most out of my time in the City of Light. Fortunately, I was there for the monthly Free Museum Day, and this enabled me to enjoy the Louvre without spending any money. However, this memorable portion of my trip was hindered by the fact that the line was extremely long. In retrospect, I wish that I had opted for one of the tour group opportunities that enable visitors to skip the line and spend a few hours exploring the very best of the amazing work that is housed by this museum.
Heading Underground
One of the main reasons that I decided to visit Paris is the fact that there is a fascinating historical place underground. In fact, my visit to the Catacombs of Paris was one of the highlights of my journey through Europe. Although it might seem macabre to some, it was definitely intriguing to have the opportunity to see the many artistic displays that have been created out of the bones of Paris citizens who have been deceased for centuries. Additionally, walking through those tunnels enables tourists to trace the footsteps of the French Resistance from World War II.
Returning to the Light
After spending a few hours with the dead, it was nice to resurface onto the busy streets of one of the most beautiful cities on earth. The Eiffel Tower was next on my list, and I was treated to an amazing performance underneath this landmark by a singing fraternity from the Netherlands. Unexpected random moments like this can be encountered anywhere in Paris, so it is best to keep your camera handy at all times, especially when you are near the Eiffel Tower or walking on the bridges that let you cross over the gorgeous Seine River.
Tourist Tips
Because Paris has so much to offer, it is vital to make a plan to ensure that you hit your must-see attractions. However, I also greatly recommend taking some time to simply stroll through the streets and soak in the culture and architecture. Additionally, booking your hotel online can help you get a better price, and it will also remove any language barriers that could make it more difficult to select a room after you arrive.
How to Save Money in Paris
Since the city can be expensive, it is vital to find a means to save. There are many ways to do this while you see Paris’ beauty, cuisine, and charm.
Here Are a Few Ways to Save a Few Bucks:
Seize discounts at the Louvre- After 6 pm, the Louvre museum is free on Fridays if you are less than 26 years and on the first Sunday of October to March, and on Tuesdays, it is closed. The museum is located in the middle of Paris and has two metro stops- both tagged “Louvre”. Stop at either one to get your discounts. You will be able to skip the lines when you visit.
Get a metro card- The city has more than 300 subway stations. Therefore it is not difficult to get around Paris. A day pass is as low as 13.20 euros, and if you purchase 10 tickets, which costs 14.50 euros, it is cheaper than 1.90 euros for each person.
Paris Museum Pass- The Paris Museum Pass is a prepaid card that gives people access to more than 70 museums and iconic spots around the capital. For museum lovers, this is a perfect treat.
Free museum admission- In France, entry to all national museums are free on the first Sunday of the month. In case you happen to be around on such days, watch out for large crowds and long queues.
Dine out during lunch- In Paris, food is not cheap. But during lunch, restaurants offer items on the menu for between 10-15 euros. Buy the same food for dinner but at half the initial price.
Cook your meals- Cook your own meals, and you will save a fortune from not eating out. Many campsites, hostels, and guesthouses have kitchens. And if there is no kitchen, you can make your own salads and sandwiches.
Don’t buy bottled water- Before going out, take along your water. Bottled water is not cheap, but tap water is free and safe for drinking.
>>Eating on the Cheap in Paris
Tours to Take In and Around Paris
Landing Beaches Tour
Cross the bocage of Normandy to go to the Peace Memorial located in the town of Caen. Visit the museum where you can view films on the 2nd World War and peruse the amazing historical artifacts and history. Then, from La Pointe du Hoc, you will visit the landing beaches of Juno, Omaha, the American cemetery, the port of Arromanches built by the allies, before returning to Paris.
Paris Mont St Michel
Discover the wonder of the Occident. A guided visit to the famous abbey followed by lunch. This is a minibus tour and includes departure and return transfer to your hotel.
Versailles Chartres
Visit the old town and the Cathedral of Chartres in the morning followed by lunch at "au Moulin de Ponceau. During the afternoon, you will be taken to visit the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the opulent residence built by Louis XIV.
Chartres from Paris
Cross the Beauce plain, the breadbasket of Paris to the town of Chartres. Visit one of the biggest cathedrals in France, built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The Cathedral has an unrivaled collection of stained glass windows referenced as a UNESCO world heritage site. You will then have free time to wander around the charming old streets of the old town around the Cathedral.
Eiffel Tower & Cruise
You will dine at an altitude of the famous restaurant on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower with its magnificent view of the city. Then you will be taken on a Seine river cruise to discover the major monuments, bridges, and beauty of the city from the water.
Fontainebleau & Barbizon
For 5 centuries, the castle of Fontainebleau was the favorite residence of French monarchs, including Francis I and Napoleon III. Fontainbleau is south of Paris, near the magnificent forest of Fontainebleau. Visit the richly furnished and decorated Royal Apartments, and discover the only remaining throne of France. Admire the different styles of French Architecture. Then take time to walk in the magnificent French gardens. On the way back to Paris, we will stop by the charming village of Barbizon, a place of inspiration for many landscape-painters, such as Rousseau, Millet, and Corot.
Giverny
Giverny is located an hour from Paris, in Normandy. This charming village was a fountain of inspiration for Claude Monet and his most famous paintings. Visit the artist’s house, studio, and garden in bloom with it’s “Japanese bridge” and idyllic pond. An exceptional site to be visited and discovered.
Grand Tour of Paris
This wonderful tour will enable you to see all of the most famous attractions of Paris by combining the “TOURINGSCOPE HALF DAY TOUR” and an essential Seine river cruise, during which you will discover many of the 32 bridges of the City. This all-encompassing tour ends on the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower, from where you will enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Paris.
>>Most Famous Monuments In Paris
Paris Illuminations
- Arc de Triomphe
- Avenue des Champs Elysees
- Eiffel Tower
- Ile de la Cité
- Notre Dame
- La Defense
- Place de la Concorde
- Seine River
Touring Scope Tour
- Arc de Triomphe
- Avenue des Champs Elysees
- Eiffel Tower
- Ile de la Cité
- Notre Dame
- La Defense
- Place de la Concorde
- Seine River
>>Most Beautiful Bridges In Paris
Versailles Discovery
Discover the castle of Versailles, the biggest French castle of the 17th century. This famous and beautiful castle is the work of architects Levau and Mansart and the work of Lenotre, the great garden architect. Visit the King’s Royal Apartments and the one and only “Hall of Mirrors” on your own with an audio- guide given directly by your guide at the palace entrance. You will have free time to wander around the acres of gardens enjoying their impeccable design and statues.
Versailles Majestic
Visit the beautiful Palace of Versailles. Just outside of Paris, Versailles is one of the most famous and opulent castles in the world. While there, you will visit the King’s Royal Apartments, and the “Hall of Mirrors” and get a taste of how Louis XIV lived with Marie Antoinette. You will also get a chance to peruse the impeccable gardens in the company of a qualified guide. The guide will tell you the story of this Palace and the Royal life at the time of Louis XIV: the Sun King.
Le Lido
An enjoyable evening with dinner and dancing at the Lido de Paris (1/2 bottle of champagne included per person) The show: “C’est Magique”, launched in 1994, has given new prestige to the famous cabaret of the Champs Elysees. The Lido is able to welcome around 1000 persons and has nearly 100 dancers. The meals are created under the expertise of Chef Paul Bocuse. A jacket and tie are required.
Dinner Noces, Illuminations, Lido
An enjoyable evening with a gastronomic dinner in a typical restaurant near the Opera, where you will be welcomed with a kir (choice of 3 courses, drinks included, 1/2 bottle of champagne), followed by the show at the famous Lido de Paris.
Paris Illuminations & Cruise
- Arc de Triomphe
- Avenue des Champs Elysees
- Pont Neuf
- Sacre Coeur Basilica
- Place de la Concorde
- Seine River
Paris Travel Blog – Summary
Paris brilliantly matches every hype that has been showered on it. That is why you should visit Paris in your next vacation. And who knows, it might just inspire you to take that life-changing step. Walk in and out of museums, buy items in the market, dance away the night, and do lots of fun things when you visit Paris. You will be glad you did. I hope that this Paris Travel Blog was useful to you and don’t forget to share it with your friends.
For a more immersive experience, check out a website specializing in city tours and excursions that can take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the city.
