Paris
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4:29 PM
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 recognisable 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 Musée du Louvre, among the world's largest museums, houses a vast collection of masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its iconic entrance is adorned by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide du Louvre. With 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts spanning from Assyrian to Islamic art, as well as antiquities from prehistory to the 19th century, the Louvre stands as a cultural treasure trove in the heart of Paris.
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. 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 the Champs-Élysées Avenue, 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 a significant part of the cathedral in April 2019. 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 metres (420 feet) long and has two 69-metre-tall (226 feet) towers.
Montmartre 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. Montmartre is famous for the cafés and studios of many great artists, such as Dalí, Monet, and Picasso. It is also easily recognisable 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.
Perched atop Montmartre hill, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica with a majestic view of Paris. Inaugurated in 1914, it is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and boasts over 500 statues. 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, 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.
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 recognisable 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 Musée du Louvre, among the world's largest museums, houses a vast collection of masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its iconic entrance is adorned by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide du Louvre. With 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts spanning from Assyrian to Islamic art, as well as antiquities from prehistory to the 19th century, the Louvre stands as a cultural treasure trove in the heart of Paris.
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 steel-frame art nouveau 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 cafés and eateries, and a rooftop terrace offering 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 shop 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.
One of the most enchanting shopping experiences in Paris involves strolling along the Seine River's parapet, where the Bouquinistes of Paris set up their stalls. These booksellers rent out old stalls to offer a diverse array of items, including used books, posters, antiques, and souvenirs. The picturesque rows of bookstalls along the Seine create a unique and nostalgic ambiance, making it a delightful destination for book lovers and those seeking vintage treasures in the heart of the city.
Located beneath the iconic Louvre Museum, the Carrousel du Louvre offers a unique and sophisticated shopping experience. The shopping gallery is known for its diverse range of boutiques and shops, showcasing a blend of high-end French and international brands. Visitors can explore elegant stores featuring fashion, jewellery, beauty products, and more.
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 of renowned international and French brands. Some examples of notable shops on or near Champs-Élysées include Cartier, Dior, Guerlain, and Louis Vuitton, together with a few malls such as Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées, Galerie des Champs, and Galerie des Arcades. Here you will also find an Apple store, a large Sephora for beauty enthusiasts and Zara, for more accessible and contemporary fashion. While Champs-Élysées is known for its luxury brands, you can also find a mix of other shops, cafés, and theatres along the avenue, making it a diverse and iconic shopping destination in Paris.
Located in the heart of Paris between the Louvre and Notre Dame, Westfield Forum des Halles is a vast shopping centre set on the former site of the historic Les Halles market, demolished in 1971. It is a bustling underground complex offering a diverse range of shopping experiences, including trendy shops, international brands, and independent boutiques. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy cinema screenings, dine at various restaurants and bars, and explore nearby streets like Rue Montorgueil and Rue Quincampoix for additional shopping and dining options. Once the city's Jewish quarter, Le Marais, in the 4th arrondissement, is now a hip area filled with trendy boutiques, art galleries, designer stores, vintage shops, and gay bars, making it a popular shopping destination in Paris with a unique and eclectic atmosphere. Place des Vosges is home to elegant arcades and the Musée Victor Hugo, where the renowned writer lived. Along the neighbourhood’s charming cobblestone streets, you will also find a variety of cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions, creating a well-rounded experience for those exploring the area.
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 steel-frame art nouveau 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 cafés and eateries, and a rooftop terrace offering 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.
Paris is served by two major airports. Most international flights arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), also known as Roissy Airport, 30 kilometres from the city centre. Orly (ORY) is 18 kilometres from the city centre. A third airport, Paris-Beauvais (BVA), is mainly served by low-cost airlines. One of the cheapest and fastest transfer options (approximately 45 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running every 10-15 minutes, from where you can connect to Paris’s metro network. Alternatively, the RoissyBus shuttle provides a direct link between Paris-Opéra and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport in 60 minutes. The frequency ensures a departure every 30 minutes. It's crucial to be cautious at airports to avoid fake cabs; authentic taxis are identifiable by an illuminated sign. To locate legitimate taxi stands, it's advised to follow the designated markings on the ground.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is located approximately 20 km away from Paris city centre. There are basically three transportation options to reach Paris: taxi, train, and bus. Opting for a taxi offers the most convenient and direct transfer, taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes, with taxi ranks readily available outside all airport terminals. Unfortunately, there are no direct train lines from Orly Airport to the city centre. Travellers opting for the train option need to take the Orlyval metro to Antony Train Station and then transfer to the RER B line, with the entire journey taking around an hour. Trains leave from all terminals, simply exit the arrivals gate and follow the signs leading to the Orlyval metro platform. The Orlybus, a direct shuttle service, is a swift and direct bus option taking 30 minutes to reach Place Denfert-Rochereau in the city centre. While public buses are available, they make frequent stops and take longer than the Orlybus. Bus stops are conveniently located outside all airport terminals.
Paris Beauvais (BVA) is mainly served by low-cost airlines. A shuttle service is organised between the terminals and Paris-Porte Maillot, which is located close to RER (line C) and metro (line 1) stations. The shuttle journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and it is designed to align with flight timetables.
Paris offers an ideal setting for exploring on foot, yet public transport remains a practical necessity during your visit. The iconic Paris metro, characterised by its Art Nouveau entrances, stands out as a fast and economical means of navigating the city. With currently 16 lines and over 300 stations, the metro operates daily from 5:30am to midnight on weekdays and until approximately 1:45am on weekends. Tickets for the metro and other public transportation options, including buses and trams, can be conveniently acquired from machines in mainline or metro stations. The Navigo Easy pass, designed for occasional use, comes pre-loaded with 10 transport journeys in central Paris and can be easily recharged at stations. For unlimited travel spanning 1, 2, 3, or 5 days in Paris and Île-de-France, the Paris Visite pass is a convenient choice. Beyond the metro, Paris boasts an extensive transportation network, including 5 RER lines serving both the city and its surroundings, 13 tram lines covering the outskirts and parts of Île-de-France, and a comprehensive bus system. Buses operate Monday through Saturday from approximately 7am to 12:30am, with nearly half of the lines running on Sundays and public holidays. Additionally, the Noctilien night bus service ensures travel between 12:30am and 5:30am. Finally, Transiliens, regional trains departing from major Parisian stations, offer further connectivity to the surrounding areas. For more information, visit the RATP website.
Batobus is a boat service through the heart of Paris, with 9 stops at key locations along the river Seine. Serving as a hop-on-hop-off service, it provides the freedom for travelers to craft their own itinerary, allowing exploration of Paris's historical monuments and neighbourhoods at their own pace.
Taxis can be hailed at stands or on the street, but they can be hard to find, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. However, Uber, the widely-used ride-sharing service, operates in the city, providing a convenient alternative for both locals and tourists to navigate Paris seamlessly. When it comes to taxis in Paris, it's crucial to be cautious at airports, especially, in order to avoid fake cabs; authentic taxis are identifiable by an illuminated sign. To locate legitimate taxi stands, it's advised to follow the designated markings on the ground.
- 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.
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.
Paris is served by two major airports. Most international flights arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), also known as Roissy Airport, 30 kilometres from the city centre. Orly (ORY) is 18 kilometres from the city centre. A third airport, Paris-Beauvais (BVA), is mainly served by low-cost airlines. One of the cheapest and fastest transfer options (approximately 45 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running every 10-15 minutes, from where you can connect to Paris’s metro network. Alternatively, the RoissyBus shuttle provides a direct link between Paris-Opéra and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport in 60 minutes. The frequency ensures a departure every 30 minutes. It's crucial to be cautious at airports to avoid fake cabs; authentic taxis are identifiable by an illuminated sign. To locate legitimate taxi stands, it's advised to follow the designated markings on the ground.
