Paris
Temperature
16°
Time
1:38 AM
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
Rising 324 metres above Paris, the Eiffel Tower was unveiled in 1889 as part of the World’s Fair celebrating 100 years since the Revolution. Though controversial at first for its unusual, industrial look — many Parisians felt it clashed with the city’s classic architecture and called it an eyesore — it quickly became the city’s defining symbol. Today, nearly 7 million visitors a year come for the views, to snap that classic photo, and to experience standing atop one of the world’s most unforgettable landmarks.
The Louvre is one of the world’s biggest museums and home to some of the most famous artworks you’ll ever see — think the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, alongside pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its glass pyramid entrance is instantly recognisable. Inside, you’ll find around 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and objects, covering everything from ancient civilisations to 19th-century art.
The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon after his win at Austerlitz in 1806, took about 30 years to finish and was finally opened in 1836. Standing 50 metres tall, it sits at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle, right at the western end of the famous Champs-Élysées. You’ll probably find yourself there at some point, as most visitors wander down this iconic avenue. The monument honours those who fought and died for France during the Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Beneath it rests the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.
Notre-Dame stands on Île de la Cité, often called the birthplace of Paris. The site has been sacred for thousands of years—long before the cathedral, there were Celtic worship spots, then Roman temples, followed by a Romanesque church. The Gothic cathedral we see today was completed in 1345 and became the heart of medieval Paris. Despite the fire in 2019 that damaged much of it, the main structure and most treasures survived. It stretches 128 metres long with two towers rising 69 metres high, still commanding the city’s skyline.
Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming and bohemian neighbourhoods, crowned by the white-domed Sacré-Cœur at the city’s highest point. Once home to artists like Dalí, Monet, and Picasso, its streets are still alive with painters and caricaturists, especially around Place du Tertre. Fans of Amélie will recognise many corners, and downhill in Pigalle you’ll find the iconic Moulin Rouge and the Lapin Agile, a historic cabaret that once drew poets, painters, and singers.
Perched atop Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, Sacré-Cœur’s white domes are visible for miles. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it houses one of the world’s largest mosaics and offers sweeping views from its dome. The steps out front are a favourite place to gather, especially at sunset.
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 glamorous costumes. Sip on French Champagne, 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 Paris, 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.
Rising 324 metres above Paris, the Eiffel Tower was unveiled in 1889 as part of the World’s Fair celebrating 100 years since the Revolution. Though controversial at first for its unusual, industrial look — many Parisians felt it clashed with the city’s classic architecture and called it an eyesore — it quickly became the city’s defining symbol. Today, nearly 7 million visitors a year come for the views, to snap that classic photo, and to experience standing atop one of the world’s most unforgettable landmarks.
The Louvre is one of the world’s biggest museums and home to some of the most famous artworks you’ll ever see — think the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, alongside pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its glass pyramid entrance is instantly recognisable. Inside, you’ll find around 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and objects, covering everything from ancient civilisations to 19th-century art.
Galeries Lafayette is an upscale French department store chain with more than 50 locations in France as well as in Dubai, Beijing, Shanghai and Doha. Its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann is a Paris institution, and its art nouveau glass dome alone is a showstopper. Alongside the big names in fashion and cosmetics, you’ll find Europe’s largest men’s department, a contemporary art gallery, plenty of cafés, and a rooftop terrace with one of the best free views in the city.
Le Bon Marché has been around since 1838 and claims the title of the world’s first department store. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, and housewares comprise the major departments. The real treat is La Grande Épicerie, the store’s legendary food hall — worth a stop even if you’re not planning to shop.
One of Paris’s liveliest market streets, Rue Mouffetard is a must-visit for food lovers. Open Tuesday to Sunday, you’ll find fresh produce, cheese, meat, seafood, chocolate, baked goods, and more. The southern end is packed with stalls, while the rest of the street is lined with shops and cafés. It’s a real foodie’s paradise.
One of the most charming ways to spend time in Paris is wandering along the Seine, where the Bouquinistes set up their iconic green stalls. These book sellers offer everything from secondhand books and vintage posters to antiques and quirky souvenirs. The rows of stalls hugging the riverbank create a nostalgic vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else — perfect for book lovers and anyone who enjoys hunting for unique finds right in the heart of the city.
Just outside Paris, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is the city’s most famous flea market. One of the largest in the world, it sprawls across a maze of stalls and covered markets where you’ll find everything from antique furniture and vintage fashion to art, curiosities, and quirky collectables — a heady mix of history, style, and serendipitous finds you won’t get anywhere else in the city.
Shakespeare and Company can feel a bit cramped these days, thanks to the steady stream of tourists squeezing into the tiny shop, but it’s still absolutely worth a visit. Above the reading room entrance, the words ‘Be Not Inhospitable to Strangers Lest They Be Angels in Disguise’ capture the spirit here, alongside its founding motto: ‘Give what you can; take what you need.’ Since opening in 1951, this legendary bookshop has hosted young writers and artists in exchange for help around the shop, with an estimated 30,000 people spending nights on beds tucked between the bookshelves. You don’t have to stay overnight to soak in the atmosphere; the welcoming public reading room is a quiet oasis amid the city’s buzz. In 2016, the shop published its own history, with contributions from the likes of Allen Ginsberg, Jim Morrison, and Ethan Hawke.
Printemps is a significant player in Paris shopping — a bit quieter than its rival, Galeries Lafayette, but just as impressive, especially if you're into fashion and beauty. It’s got seven floors packed with everything from everyday brands to high-end names like Gucci and Chanel. Just like Galeries Lafayette, don’t miss the top floor: the stained-glass dome is stunning, and there’s a café where you can enjoy one of the best views over Paris — no ticket needed.
Champs-Élysées is a charming and historic thoroughfare, famous worldwide for its upscale shopping options. The long avenue is lined with a mix of high-end and flagship stores from renowned French and international brands. You’ll find Cartier, Dior, Guerlain, and Louis Vuitton, along with malls like Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées and Galerie des Champs. For something more casual, there’s Zara and a large Sephora for beauty lovers. But Champs-Élysées isn’t just about shopping — cafés, theatres, and a buzzing atmosphere make it a classic Paris experience.
Galeries Lafayette is an upscale French department store chain with more than 50 locations in France as well as in Dubai, Beijing, Shanghai and Doha. Its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann is a Paris institution, and its art nouveau glass dome alone is a showstopper. Alongside the big names in fashion and cosmetics, you’ll find Europe’s largest men’s department, a contemporary art gallery, plenty of cafés, and a rooftop terrace with one of the best free views in the city.
Le Bon Marché has been around since 1838 and claims the title of the world’s first department store. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, and housewares comprise the major departments. The real treat is La Grande Épicerie, the store’s legendary food hall — worth a stop even if you’re not planning to shop.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter France, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle Eastern, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), also known as Roissy Airport, is the largest airport in France and the main international gateway to Paris, located about 34 km northeast of the city. One of the fastest ways to reach central Paris from CDG is the RER B train, which connects the airport to major stations such as Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les-Halles, and Denfert-Rochereau. Trains run every 10–15 minutes, with a journey of roughly 30–40 minutes. The RoissyBus shuttle offers a direct route to the Paris-Opéra area, with frequent departures and a travel time of about an hour, depending on traffic. For those taking taxis, official vehicles can be found at designated ranks outside the terminals and are clearly identifiable by a taxi sign; passengers are advised to avoid accepting rides from drivers inside the terminal to prevent scams.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is located about 13 km south of Paris and is the second-largest airport serving the French capital. Travellers can reach central Paris via several options. The Orlyval light rail connects the airport to Antony station in about 6–8 minutes, where passengers can transfer to the RER B train for direct access to the city centre, with a total journey time of roughly 30–35 minutes. The OrlyBus provides a direct service to Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th arrondissement, taking approximately 25–30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are also available, with rides typically lasting 30–40 minutes, though peak traffic can extend this time. Finally, the T7 tram links the airport to Villejuif–Louis Aragon station on Metro Line 7, offering a more economical route, though the full trip into central Paris is longer than other options.
Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA) primarily serves low-cost airlines. The official shuttle service connects the airport to Paris-Porte Maillot's Pershing car park, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Shuttles are scheduled to align with flight arrivals. Upon arrival at Porte Maillot, passengers have access to Metro Line 1 and RER Line C, facilitating easy connections to central Paris.
Paris has an extensive and efficient public transport network operated by the RATP, including the metro, RER trains, buses, trams, and the Montmartre funicular. The metro, with 16 lines and over 300 stations, is a fast and economical way to get around the city, running daily from about 5:30 am to midnight on weekdays and until around 1:45 am at weekends. Buses and trams cover areas not served by the metro, with many lines operating seven days a week, while the Noctilien night buses run between 12:30 am and 5:30 am. For travellers planning multiple journeys, the Paris Visite pass offers unlimited travel on all public transport for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days, including trips to airports, Versailles, and Disneyland Paris, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for exploring the city.
Taxis are readily available throughout Paris, and you can hail one on the street, though it is often more reliable to use designated taxi stands, particularly during busy periods such as Friday and Saturday evenings. For added convenience, the popular G7 app allows you to book a taxi in advance, track it in real time, and pay directly through the app. Ride-sharing services such as Uber also operate in Paris, offering an alternative to traditional taxis.
- 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 cities, but also to other European cities.
In Paris, most post offices are open Monday to Friday from around 8:30 am to 6 pm. On Saturdays, many offices operate until early afternoon, typically closing by 1 pm, while most are closed on Sundays. For travellers looking to post mail internationally or access a full range of postal services, the main post office in the city is La Poste – Paris Louvre, one of the few with extended hours, including Sundays. It offers services such as sending and receiving domestic and international mail and parcels, buying stamps and philatelic items, carrying out automated banking transactions, and using self-service kiosks for quick postal tasks.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter France, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle Eastern, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), also known as Roissy Airport, is the largest airport in France and the main international gateway to Paris, located about 34 km northeast of the city. One of the fastest ways to reach central Paris from CDG is the RER B train, which connects the airport to major stations such as Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les-Halles, and Denfert-Rochereau. Trains run every 10–15 minutes, with a journey of roughly 30–40 minutes. The RoissyBus shuttle offers a direct route to the Paris-Opéra area, with frequent departures and a travel time of about an hour, depending on traffic. For those taking taxis, official vehicles can be found at designated ranks outside the terminals and are clearly identifiable by a taxi sign; passengers are advised to avoid accepting rides from drivers inside the terminal to prevent scams.
