Paris
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Paris
Few cities match the iconic status that Paris boasts in the imagination of travellers. In fashion, gastronomy, and the arts, she is queen. As you visit the different quartiers of the City of Light, her moods shift from gritty to sophisticated, from Haute Couture to punk. There is always something new to discover in Paris beyond the legendary sights and museums we all know so well. This fabled city has a way of getting under your skin and feeling instantly familiar to all who wander her hypnotic streets and linger at her inviting cafes.Find your trip
Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the world's most recognizable monuments as well as one of the most visited ones, attracting nearly seven million visitors every year. It towers over the city at 324 metres (1,063 feet) and weighs over 10,000 tons, making it both an imposing monument and an engineering marvel. Climb all the way to the top for a breathtaking view of the City of Light.
The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world, famous for its many masterpieces: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, art by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, and many more. The main entrance is covered by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide de Louvre. The French government has collected the 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that inhabit its endless halls over the past five centuries. Its collection boasts Assyrian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic, and Islamic art as well as antiquities dating from prehistory to the 19th century.
Commissioned by emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 on account of the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to be erected and was then inaugurated by the French king Louis-Philippe in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon's death. And standing tall at 50 metres (164 feet), it is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. Located at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of Champs-Élysées, the arch honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Under its vault, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War.
With its 10 million yearly visitors, Notre-Dame was the most visited site in Paris until a devastating fire ravaged its significant part in April 2019, suspending visits inside until further notice. The structure of the building itself was preserved, as well as most works of art that used to be contained inside. The place has always been the religious centre of the city: the Celts considered the grounds sacred, the Romans built a temple here, the Christians, a basilica, and the last religious structure before the Notre-Dame cathedral was erected was a Romanesque church. The Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame, finished in 1345, is a tectonic masterpiece. The massive structure is 128 meters (420 feet) long and has two 69-meter-tall (226 feet) towers.
Montmarte is one of the most charming and bohemian neighbourhoods in Paris, with the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and its beacon atop the 130-metre Montmartre hill, being the highest point in Paris. Montmarte is famous for the cafes and studios of many great artists, such as Dalí, Monet, and Picasso. It is also easily recognizable as the filming location of the movie "Amélie". Other famous places in the area are the Moulin Rouge and Lapin Agile, downhill to the southwest, in the red-light district of Pigalle.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica atop the Montmartre hill, the highest point in the city. It offers a wonderful panoramic view of Paris as it extends southward. The church was inaugurated in 1914 and is named after and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It contains more than 500 statues, and its iconic status makes it a regular sight on film.
A trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this iconic Parisian landmark has held the title of the most famous cabaret in the world, thanks to its French can-can and the larger-than-life shows featuring expertly choreographed dancing, elaborate sets, and glamourous costumes. Sip on French Champagne and enjoy dinner in a beautiful Belle Époque venue, and experience the show Féerie, which you are sure to remember for years to come.
Boat cruises on the Seine embark at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and take you through the heart of the city where you can admire the prestigious monuments and landmarks of the city and the stunning architecture from bridge to bridge and bank to bank. To learn history along the way, plug in your audio guide and choose your language. Come back at night for another tour, and it will be a different Paris before your eyes, yet just as magical.
Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the world's most recognizable monuments as well as one of the most visited ones, attracting nearly seven million visitors every year. It towers over the city at 324 metres (1,063 feet) and weighs over 10,000 tons, making it both an imposing monument and an engineering marvel. Climb all the way to the top for a breathtaking view of the City of Light.
The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world, famous for its many masterpieces: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, art by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, and many more. The main entrance is covered by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide de Louvre. The French government has collected the 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that inhabit its endless halls over the past five centuries. Its collection boasts Assyrian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic, and Islamic art as well as antiquities dating from prehistory to the 19th century.
Hôtel du Nord is a classic bistro, made famous in a 1930s movie by Marcel Carné, offering a varied menu, ranging from traditional French cuisine to original dishes to be enjoyed in a lovely location by the canal St Martin.
The quartet of standing-room-only wine & small plates bars (the original 'comptoir' is now supplemented by ones "de La Mer", "de la Terre", and "du Marché") are a wickedly exciting find if neither timing nor budget allow for in-advance reservations but the city's culinary excellence beckons. You will still be treated to the finest produce from France and beyond: Corsican charcuterie, scrumptious Iberian ham croquettes, along with self-serve bread (by boulanger Thierry Breton, who works exclusively with wheat grown and processed in the Ile-de-France region) and Bordier butter (presumed to be the 'best butter in the world'). You know you are in good hands with legendary head chef Yves Camdeborde, nicknamed "godfather of bistronomy". Browse through the menu cards hanging over the bar to take your pick of pintxo, and pair them with your choice of finest wines.
Le Voltaire is, perhaps, amongst the best places in the 1st arrondissement to come for a quintessentially Parisian brasserie experience. Classic French cuisine with dishes polished to perfection, woven bent-wood chairs outside, and a chic ambience with that elusive je-ne-sais-quoi factor.
Created by two brothers passionate about health, the environment, and animal rights, Le Potager de Charlotte is an intimate spot offering plant-based, gourmet cuisine made from fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce. From the presentation to the flavours, you can really see the time and thought they have put into each dish. Le Potager de Charlotte is the kind of restaurant that you don't have to be vegan to fully enjoy the food, so make sure to pay a visit and book ahead.
Although Japanese prevails in this aptly named Parisian neighbourhood tucked between the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, there is a plethora of Asian cuisines to choose from: restaurants serving everything from Korean bibimbap to bowls of steamy Vietnamese pho pepper the area, enjoying popularity among both locals and visitors.
Classic Mexican dishes such as quesadillas, nachos, and of course, fajitas dished up in a vibrant Mexican-style setting just a few minutes from the famous Pont Neuf.
Hailed as one of the best restaurants in Paris, Epicure offers a unique dining experience inside Le Bristol Paris Hotel. Michelin-starred chef Éric Fréchon concocts masterpiece French dishes using unusual combinations of exquisite ingredients, producing such meals as squid roasted with salted butter, puffed spelt, candied eggplant with couscous broth, and lobster coral vinaigrette.
The past few years have turned Le Kong into somewhat of a legend in Paris. Underneath its glass ceiling, you can enjoy some Asian fusion cuisine, grab a drink, and later on dance the night away, all the while enjoying one of the most romantic views over the river Seine.
Hôtel du Nord is a classic bistro, made famous in a 1930s movie by Marcel Carné, offering a varied menu, ranging from traditional French cuisine to original dishes to be enjoyed in a lovely location by the canal St Martin.
The quartet of standing-room-only wine & small plates bars (the original 'comptoir' is now supplemented by ones "de La Mer", "de la Terre", and "du Marché") are a wickedly exciting find if neither timing nor budget allow for in-advance reservations but the city's culinary excellence beckons. You will still be treated to the finest produce from France and beyond: Corsican charcuterie, scrumptious Iberian ham croquettes, along with self-serve bread (by boulanger Thierry Breton, who works exclusively with wheat grown and processed in the Ile-de-France region) and Bordier butter (presumed to be the 'best butter in the world'). You know you are in good hands with legendary head chef Yves Camdeborde, nicknamed "godfather of bistronomy". Browse through the menu cards hanging over the bar to take your pick of pintxo, and pair them with your choice of finest wines.
Founded in 1838, Le Bon Marché was the first-ever department store. Tradition and prestige accompany this prominent retail establishment, the top destination for fashion and style. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, and houseware comprise the major departments. There is also an impressive food hall, which is definitely worth a visit.
The Galeries Lafayette is an upscale French department store chain with more than 50 locations in France as well as in Berlin, Dubai, and Jakarta. Its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann, famous for its opulent interior along with its magnificent Neo-Byzantine stained-glass dome, houses more than 3500 of the most prestigious designer and cosmetics labels, as well as the largest European space entirely devoted to men's fashion. Plus, a contemporary art gallery, a variety of cafes and eateries, and a rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view of Paris.
It might be difficult to let the magic of Shakespeare & Company truly sink in given the abominable number of tourists crowding the tiny space these days, but the place is still definitely worth a visit. "Be Not Inhospitable to Strangers Lest They Be Angels in Disguise," seen above the reading room entrance are words the store lives by, along with its founding motto: "Give what you can; take what you need." Throughout its 70-year existence, the shop has accommodated young writers and artists in exchange for helping out, and an estimated 30,000 people have reportedly slept on the beds tucked between its bookshelves since its opening in 1951, but one doesn't have to spend the night to enjoy the welcoming public reading room. In 2016, the shop published its own history with contributions from the likes of Allen Ginsberg, Jim Morrison, and Ethan Hawke.
Le Carrousel du Louvre is a diverse underground shopping precinct adjoining the famous museum. Whether you are looking for music, gifts, perfumes, or clothing, you will find a number of well-known stores that deliver quality merchandise and ease of purchase.
One of the most charming shopping activities in Paris consists of walking along the rows of bookstalls perched against the parapet of the Seine River. Here, if you have time and good bargaining skills, you may find some ancient and valuable tomes or collections of old stamps.
This charming tourist strip is lined with fast-food chains, banks, airline offices, souvenir shops, cinemas and malls, such as the futuristic Drugstore Publicis near l'Arc de Triomphe, or Gallerie Marchande des Champs-Elysées near Georges V. The Guerlain Parfumerie, with its turn-of-the-century elegance and curved staircase, as well as the neo-classical Virgin Megastore, huge retail heaven for recorded music and books, are highlights.
Located in the city centre, right between the Louvre and Notre Dame, the shopping mall Forum des Halles features a heap of good shopping spots in a fascinating and crowded underground complex. This is a good source of affordable clothing. Not far away, Le Marais carries many handicraft and antique shops and is always a safe bet to find some unique artefacts.
This is one of the city's most popular shopping areas, home to prestigious department stores such as Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. They are remarkable as much for the wide range of items sold as for their Art Nouveau architecture. You will find a world of ready-to-wear, with appealing boutiques and affordable brands. A good place to start is with a walk from the beautiful Opéra Palais Garnier down to the stores on Boulevard Hausmann.
Founded in 1838, Le Bon Marché was the first-ever department store. Tradition and prestige accompany this prominent retail establishment, the top destination for fashion and style. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, and houseware comprise the major departments. There is also an impressive food hall, which is definitely worth a visit.
The Galeries Lafayette is an upscale French department store chain with more than 50 locations in France as well as in Berlin, Dubai, and Jakarta. Its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann, famous for its opulent interior along with its magnificent Neo-Byzantine stained-glass dome, houses more than 3500 of the most prestigious designer and cosmetics labels, as well as the largest European space entirely devoted to men's fashion. Plus, a contemporary art gallery, a variety of cafes and eateries, and a rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view of Paris.
France can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
What is the best time to visit Paris? As one of the most visited cities in the world, it is safe to say that there is never really a bad time to visit the French capital. The weather is best in summer, but crowds are by far the biggest. Autumn is also highly recommended for its pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and stunning foliage. Having said that, the best time to visit Paris is from June to October. How many days do you need in Paris? In order for you to visit the main sights and attractions in Paris, walk around the city and explore its characterful arrondissements, you will need from 4 to 5 days. Is Paris dangerous? Despite being a major European capital and one of the most visited cities in the world, Paris is a fairly safe city for travellers. However, as with most main tourist destinations, pickpocketing is the biggest concern here. So be careful with your belongings when taking public transport and around the city's main attractions. Is Paris expensive? Yes, Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially when it comes to hotels. Average spending in the City of Light is high, not only when compared to other continents, but also other European cities.
Paris is served by two major airports. Most international flights arrive at Roissy Charles de Gaulle (CDG), 30 kilometres from the city centre. Orly is 18 kilometres from the city centre. A third airport, Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines. Roissybus offers a direct bus from the airport terminals every 15 minutes and arrives at the city centre (Opéra) after a 45-60 minute journey. One of the cheapest and fastest options (30 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running every 10-15 minutes, from where you can connect to Paris’ metro network. Air France buses go to Porte Maillot and Etoile every 15 minutes, and taxis can be found near the terminals’ baggage collection area exits. A taxi from the airport to the city centre takes around 30-40 minutes and should cost €45-50.
Paris Orly Airport is located 18 kilometres from the city centre. From Orly, the automatic metro Orlyval takes you to RER B Antony station from 6am to 11pm. The journey takes about half an hour. The other cheaper option are the airport shuttle buses going to RER C Pont de Rungis station. As for buses, the Orly bus takes you straight to Opéra station. The bus takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines. A shuttle service is organized between the terminals and Paris-Porte Maillot. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The city’s local transport system is cheap and efficient. The bus, underground (metro) and commuter train system (RER) are divided into five zones. Tickets are valid on both buses and trains, and can be purchased from the stations and in kiosks. Travel cards, ranging from one to five days, are also available at the airport, at underground stations and from tourist information offices.
Batobus is a boat service through the heart of Paris, with stops at eight key locations along the river Seine. It functions as a hop-on-hop-off service, and tickets are sold for one day, two days or one year.
Taxis can be hailed at stands or on the street, but they can be hard to find, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. Beware of fake cabs at the airports. Taxis Bleus +33 1 49 36 10 10 www.taxis-bleus.com Alpha Taxis +33 1 45 85 85 85 www.alphataxis.com
France can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
What is the best time to visit Paris? As one of the most visited cities in the world, it is safe to say that there is never really a bad time to visit the French capital. The weather is best in summer, but crowds are by far the biggest. Autumn is also highly recommended for its pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and stunning foliage. Having said that, the best time to visit Paris is from June to October. How many days do you need in Paris? In order for you to visit the main sights and attractions in Paris, walk around the city and explore its characterful arrondissements, you will need from 4 to 5 days. Is Paris dangerous? Despite being a major European capital and one of the most visited cities in the world, Paris is a fairly safe city for travellers. However, as with most main tourist destinations, pickpocketing is the biggest concern here. So be careful with your belongings when taking public transport and around the city's main attractions. Is Paris expensive? Yes, Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially when it comes to hotels. Average spending in the City of Light is high, not only when compared to other continents, but also other European cities.
