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Helpful French Phrases to Learn Before You Go to Paris

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: January 20, 2023

You’ve been planning your trip to Paris for months. You’ve booked your tours of the Louvre, Paris Catacombs, and the Palace of Versailles. You’ve found the best restaurants and your hotels are booked. Ready to order some food or ask for directions? Not to worry, we’ve put together some helpful French phrases fro travelers to help make your trip a little less stressful and a lot more fun.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Paris? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to Paris for more planning resources, our top Paris tours for a memorable trip, and how to see Paris in a day .

Helpful French Phrases for Travelers

You’re headed to Paris, how exciting! If you’ve already figured out where to stay , researched cool places to eat in the city, and booked your tickets and tours for Paris ‘ top attractions, there’s really only one thing left to do. Learn some French!

You don’t need to be fluent by the time you get off the plane, but it is a good idea to learn a few short phrases to help you interact with the locals and jump into your French adventure. Here are a few French phrases for travelers.

Not ready to book a tour? See if Paris tours are worth it .

1. Bonjour (Hello)

Pronunciation: bahn-joor

This might seem obvious because even people who don’t speak French often know what Bonjour means. However, what most non-French speakers don’t know is how important saying bonjour actually is. If you approach French people without saying bonjour first, they may take offense.

For example, if you need to ask for directions, it is not enough to say “Excuse me, do you know….” A native French speaker will find this rude. Instead, make sure to say “Bonjour! Excuse me, do you know…”

It’s a small touch that makes a huge difference. It’s also important to say bonjour whenever you walk into any shop or restaurant. If you only have time to learn one French word before your trip, make sure it’s this one.

2. Merci beaucoup (Thank you very much)

Pronunciation: mehr-see boh-koo

No matter where you travel in the world, being polite should always be at the top of your list. Saying merci beaucoup (thank you very much) is a small way to show a local that you’re enjoying your time in France and that you took the time to learn some French words.

3. Excusez-moi (Excuse me) 

Pronunciation: ex-koo-say mwa

Whether you’re in a crowded museum, on the metro, or in a restaurant, there’s a high possibility you’ll need to squeeze past someone, for example. Excusez-moi will come in handy and being polite will always get you further than not.

4. Au revoir! (Goodbye!)

Pronunciation: oh-rev-vwha

You know how to say hello, so it makes to know how to say goodbye! On your trip to Paris, you’ll meet new people and it helps to be able to say the basic greetings

5. Parlez-vous Anglais? (Do you speak English?)

Pronunciation:  par-lay-voo awn-glay

If you have limited French, odds are you’ll have to try speaking with locals in English at some point. To show you’ve put in a little effort, try starting the conversation with one of the most helpful French phrases: parlez-vous anglais ? Then, continue in English.

In Paris, most people working in restaurants and tourist locations usually speak English. However, this might not always be the case, especially if you travel to a smaller city outside of Paris. This is why it’s important to have a few French words up your sleeve, just in case.

Our Best Versailles and Paris Louvre Tours

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Versailles isn’t that difficult to get to by train, but why stress over the logistics? Meet a local guide in central Paris who will purchase your train tickets and ensure you get off at the right stop. Then enjoy a guided tour of the palace and the unforgettable gardens. Skip-the-line admissions included to the palace and gardens.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Paris tours to take and why .

6. Je voudrais… (I would like…)

Pronunciation: juh voo-dray (Pronounce the “J” sounds like you would the “S” in vision)

Ordering at a French restaurant doesn’t have to be hard. If you want to give it a go, just remember the words je voudrais . That’s how you start your order followed by the food or drink off the menu. It’s as simple as that! These two words can also be used in other situations, such as at a metro station to purchase train tickets from a vendor or anything else “you would like.”

7. L’addition, s’il vous plaît (Check, please)

Pronunciation: lih-ah-dih-see-ohn, sih-voo-play

You might imagine France as a place where you can sit at a café and eat, drink, and chat for hours on end. Well, you pretty much can! In France, a waiter will most likely not bring the check to your table at the end of your meal because you can sit at your table for hours until the restaurant closes.

Waiters won’t try to push you out or throw dirty looks your way. When you’re ready to pay and head out, say: l’addition, s’il vous plaît , which means “check, please.” Otherwise, you could be waiting at your table for a while.

8. Où est…? (Where is…?)

Pronunciation: oo-eh

These two simple words will help you out most with directions. Où est means “where is” in French, and you can combine this phrase with many words while traveling. For example, to ask where the nearest metro station is located, you can say: Où est le métro? Or, if you’re headed to a specific attraction, add the name after this phrase. Où est le Louvre?

9. Combien ça coûte? (How much does that cost?)

Pronunciation:  Kohm-bee-ahn sah koot

It’s a given that on your trip to France, you’ll be doing some shopping. So, when you want to know how much something costs, ask: “Combien ça coûte?” In France, the amount on the price tag is the amount you’ll pay, since by law, the tax is included in the posted price. One exception to this might be your hotel room, where a small local tax is sometimes added.

Pro Tip: Negotiating prices is not a common practice in France, so if you don’t agree with a price, it’s best to move along and shop elsewhere.

10. Je le prendrai! (I’ll take it!)

Pronunciation: zhe le prawn-dray

This last one in our French phrases for travelers isn’t strictly necessary, but it’ll be a nice touch when interacting with a local while shopping. If you’re happy with the price, say Je le prendrai and get ready to pay. Shopping in hand, go and enjoy Paris some more!

Not ready to book a tour? See the  best Paris tours to take and why .

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

About Brandon Shaw

Brandon is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He left the States to travel the world at 18 and never looked back! As an official Tour Guide of Rome and Certified Sommelier, he loves to travel the world and share these experiences with his readers.

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Paris - What you need to know before coming to Paris , Travel

30 must-know French phrases for your visit to Paris

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Où se trouve la station de métro la plus proche, une baguette, s’il vous plaît..

Je m’excuse.

Je ne comprends pas., où sont les toilettes.

L’addition, s’il vous plaît.

Bonjour / Bonsoir

Parlez-vous anglais, pouvez-vous m’aider, je parle un peu français., combien ça coûte, je souhaite aller à…, pouvez-vous m’indiquer le chemin, tout droit / à gauche / à droite, pourriez-vous nous prendre en photo, s’il vous plaît.

Acceptez-vous les cartes étrangères?

Où puis-je prélever de l’argent?

Parlez plus lentement, s’il vous plaît.

Comment vous appelez-vous.

Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels

Enchanté  / Enchantée .

Nous restons., d’où viens-tu / d’où venez-vous, je suis là pour les vacances / le travail..

Photo by Michael Block from Pexels

Quel temps va-t-il faire aujourd’hui?

Photo by Tomas Anunziata from Pexels

Qu’est-ce que vous faites? 

Pouvez-vous m’appeler un taxi, s’il vous plaît.

Photo by Jean-Baptiste Terrazzoni from Pexels

Est-ce que vous avez visité…?

Photo by Lina Kivaka from Pexels

À quelle heure est-ce que cela ferme?

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

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• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
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• Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
• Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
• Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Anna was born and raised in Paris. She studied Languages in Paris and Social Communication in Lisbon. Anna also lived in Madrid for a year. She has been to many places and hopes to go places. Wherever she goes, she always tries to experience each city as locals do. Anna usually has croissants for breakfast in Paris, takes a walk in Camden Town in London, eats lunch in Chiado in Lisbon, and enjoys Madrid's nightlife.

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Home » Articles » 60+ Essential French Phrases for Beginners to Start Speaking Now

Full disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. ?

written by Benny Lewis

Language: French

Reading time: 17 minutes

Published: Jan 11, 2021

Updated: Sep 17, 2021

60+ Essential French Phrases for Beginners to Start Speaking Now

What are some French sayings? What are the most common phrases in French? And can learning a few powerful French phrases really help you start speaking right away?

Absolutely!

Even if you'll only be spending a short time in the country, learning a few basic French phrases can be very rewarding and make a big difference to your trip.

Let’s start by mastering some of the most common French phrases you need to know as a beginner:

I've long advocated that set phrases are the best thing for beginners to learn when starting out.

After all, isn't the goal of language learning to communicate?

How do you expect to communicate with anybody if the only thing you've learned so far is a verb table?

So whether you're planning to travel to Paris for a week or move to Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha! for the rest of your life, here are the most important and useful French phrases that you should learn A.S.A.P.

Listen to the French Phrases:

Here's a quick “French phrases” video I made that will help you with pronunciation for most of the phrases in this article:

Before we get started, if you’re looking for an online French course, here’s the course I recommend: French Uncovered – Learn French Through the Power of Story, a course with a fascinating new method by my friend Olly.

French Greetings and Polite Phrases

Bonjour – “hello”.

There are many ways in French to say “hello” , but bonjour is undoubtedly the most well-known. It's universally polite and friendly, whether the situation is formal or informal.

Bonjour is a combination of the words bon (“good”) and jour (“day”).

In the evening, you could also say bonsoir (“good evening”). A more casual way to greet people is salut , which can mean either “hi!” or “bye!”.

S'il vous plaît / s'il te plaît – “Please”

As a tourist, the last thing you want to be is rude. So when in France, remember what your mother taught you, and say s'il vous plaît (“please”) when making a request.

You can also say s'il te plaît. What's the difference? It's all about “you”:

In French there are two ways of saying “you”.

Tu is what you'd use when addressing a friend. Vous is a more polite and formal version, best used when talking to a stranger or older person.

( Vous is also what you should use when addressing a group of people in any situation, similar to saying “you guys” or “you all” in English).

So s'il vous plaît and s'il te plaît both mean “please” (literally, “if it pleases you”), but s'il vous plait is the more polite version. If in doubt, use s'il vous plaît .

(Why is it s'il te plait and not s'il tu plait ? It's a grammatical thing that you don't need to worry about as a beginner. Just learn the phrase as a whole for now, and things will become clear later.)

In fact, when asking for something in French – e.g. asking a stranger for directions or asking to see a menu in a restaurant, you should start with “ Bonjour. S'il vous plaît… ” It literally means “Hello, please…”, which would sound a bit strange in English, but it's the normal way to start a polite request in French.

Comment vous appelez-vous? / Comment t'appelles-tu? – “What’s your name?”

When meeting anyone, one of the first things you'll want to know is their name.

In French, you can find it out by asking “ Comment vous appelez-vous? ” (formal) or “ Comment t'appelles-tu? ” (informal).

Literally, these questions mean “what do you call yourself?”. You could also ask “ c'est quoi ton nom? ” – which is a more literal translation of “what's your name?”

If you're on the receiving end of this question, answer with “ Je m'appelle… ” (“my name is”, literally “I call myself”) or a simple “ Je suis… ” (“I am…”).

Oui/Non/Si – “Yes/No”

Two essential words to learn in any language are “yes” and “no”. In French, “yes” is oui and “no” is non .

Informally, it's also common to say ouais or ouaip instead of oui – like saying “yeah” or “yep” in English.

Then you have si . This is a handy little word that has no direct equivalent in English. Use it to say “yes” when someone asks you a negatively phrased question.

To illustrate what I mean, imagine that someone asks you, in English, “haven't you been to Paris?”

If you reply “yes”, it's not exactly clear what you're saying. Do you mean “yes, I have been to Paris – contrary to your assertion” or “yes, you're correct: I haven't been to Paris”?

French avoids this confusion with the word si . It means “yes”, but more specifically it contradicts the assertion in the question. In the above example, if you say si , it clearly conveys that you have, in fact, been to Paris.

Si is one of many linguistic features that I sorely miss when I speak English.

Comment allez-vous? – “How are you?”

This is the polite way of saying “how are you?” in French. Note the use of the polite vous rather than the informal tu .

Another, more informal way to say “how are you?” is ça va ? This phrase is extremely common – when in France you'll likely hear it several times per day.

If someone asks you “ ça va? ”, you can respond with a simple “ ça va bien ” – “it's going well”.

Excusez-moi – “Excuse me”

To get someone's attention, whether they're a waiter in a restaurant or a stranger on the street, say “ excusez-moi ”, “excuse me”.

This is also the polite way to ask someone to get out of your way. For example, if you're trying to exit a crowded train, a soft “ excusez-moi ” should (hopefully) be enough to make people step aside.

Pardon – “Sorry”

Picture getting off a crowded train, being careful you don't bump into anyone as you walk through the crowded metro station. But if a collision does occur, it's fine. Just say pardon , “sorry”, and all will be forgiven.

“ Pardon? ” is also how you'd ask someone to repeat themselves if you didn't hear or understand what they said. In this case, you should say it with a rising tone to indicate that it's a question.

Another way to say this is “ pourriez-vous répéter, s’il vous plaît ?” – “Could you repeat, please?”

Merci beaucoup – “Thanks a lot”

And of course, don't forget to say thank you!

The French word for “thank you” is merci . Or you can make it stronger by saying merci beaucoup – “thanks very much”.

Use merci in all the same situations you'd say “thank you” in English.

Other Must-Know French Greetings and Polite Phrases:

• Nice to meet you – Enchanté
• How’s it going? – Comment ça va?
• And you? – Et toi?
• Are you well? – Vous allez bien?
• What’s new? / What’s up? – Quoi de neuf?
• Good, thanks! – Bien, merci!
• So-so / It’s okay – Comme ci, comme ça (Literally: “like this, like that”)
• Same as always – Comme d’hab
• It could be worse – Ça pourrait être pire
• You’re welcome – Je t'en prie
• Don’t mention it / You’re welcome – De rien
• Goodbye – Au revoir
• See you soon – À bientôt!

French Phrases for Maintaining a Conversation

Je voudrais parler français – “i would like to speak french”.

The French are famously protective of their language. Sometimes they can be a bit impatient with us anglophones, and reply in English to your imperfect French questions.

It's frustrating when this happens, but if you ever want to make progress in a foreign language, you absolutely must stop speaking English !

Be polite but firm when someone tries to speak English with you – tell them “ Je voudrais parler français ” – “I'd like to speak French.”

Note that, unlike in English, names of languages are not written with a capital letter in French.

Je ne comprends pas – “I don’t understand”

Sometimes pardon doesn't quite cut it. If you really can't figure out what the other person is saying, try telling them “ je ne comprends pas ” – “I don't understand.”

There's no shame in being a beginner! Just remember not to fall back to English when the going gets tough. If you don't understand something, persevere in French anyway – it's the only way you'll learn.

Que veut dire ça? – “What does that mean?”

Maybe the reason you didn't understand is because there was a specific word you didn't recognise. If that's the case, say “ que veut dire X? ” – “What does X mean?”

You can also phrase this as “ ça veut dire quoi? ” – “What does that mean?”

Plus lentement – “More slowly”

Sometimes, vocabulary isn’t the problem. You’d know the words if you could make them out, but you can't because the other person is talking too fast!

In this case, try saying plus lentement – “more slowly”.

Better yet, say a full sentence: “ Pourriez-vous parler plus lentement, s’il vous plaît? ” – “Can you speak more slowly, please?”

Comment dit-on __ en français? – “How do you say __ in French?”

What if you need to say something in French, but the exact word escapes you?

Just fill in the blank in the above sentence: “ Comment dit-on X en français? ” means “How do you say X in French”?

A side note: the pronoun on , seen above, is an interesting one. It’s a colloquial alternative to nous (“we”). However, on is also used to refer to an unspecified person or people in general, like the word “one” is sometimes used in formal English. (If you speak German, note that on in this sense is like the German word man .)

One doesn't use the word “one” very much in modern English – one finds it rather old-timey and stuffy. These days you normally use “you” when you're talking about people in general.

Comment ça s'écrit? – “How do you spell that?”

If you learn a new French word using the phrase above, you might want to write it down before you forget it.

Unfortunately, French spelling isn't the easiest.

The relationship between spelling and French pronunciation can be complicated. Generally, it's easier to figure out a word's pronunciation from its spelling than it is to know its spelling from its pronunciation. I wrote a guide to help you with French pronunciation here .

So if you're not sure, ask someone “ comment ça s'ecrit? ” – “How do you spell that?” Literally: “How does that write itself?”

Or if you don't trust your own transcription abilities, try asking them to write it for you: say “ Est-ce que vous pouvez l'écrire? ” – “Can you write it (down)?”

Other Helpful Phrases for Maintaining a French Conversation:

• Can you speak more slowly please? – Pouvez-vous parler plus lentement s'il vous plaît?
• Can you say it one more time? – Pouvez-vous le dire une fois de plus?
• Do you speak French? – Parlez-vous français?
• Do you understand? – Comprenez vous?
• What do you do for a living? – Qu’est-ce que tu fais dans la vie?
• How old are you? – Quel âge as-tu?
• I’m _ years old – J’ai _ ans
• Where are you from? – D'où êtes-vous?
• I’m from… – Je viens…
• Are you married? – Es-tu marié?
• Are you single? – Es-tu célibataire?
• When can we meet? – Quand pouvons-nous nous rencontrer?
• What’s your phone number? – Quel est ton numéro de téléphone?

French Phrases for Getting Around

Où est… – “where is…”.

Struggling to find your way around? Not to worry. Just get a stranger's attention (remember what phrase would you use to do this?) and ask “ où est X ” – “Where is X?”

“X” could be many things: la Tour Eiffel, le Louvre, Notre Dame … or perhaps something less exotic, like le metro or un restaurant .

Où se trouve la station de métro la plus proche? – “Where is the closest metro station?”

Another way of saying “where is it?” is où se trouve , literally “where is (it) found”.

Here's an example of où se trouve combined with another handy phrase to know: la station de métro la plus proche means “the closest metro station”.

One more piece of useful vocabulary: once you're in the metro station, you might want to ask someone “ où est le guichet? ” – “Where is the ticket window?”

Je voudrais acheter un billet – “I would like to buy a ticket”

Now that you've found the guichet , you probably want to buy a billet – a ticket. But what type of ticket do you want?

• un billet aller simple – a one-way ticket
• un billet aller retour – a round-trip ticket

Make your decision, and tell the assistant “ je voudrais un billet aller simple/retour pour X ” – “I would like to buy a one-way/round-trip ticket to X”, where X is your destination.

C'est combien? – “How much is it?”

France isn't the cheapest of countries – so whether you're at the guichet or elsewhere, it doesn't hurt to be price-conscious.

To ask how much something costs, say “ c'est combien? ” – “how much is it?” You can also say “ Combien ça coûte? ” – literally, “how much does it cost?”

Où sont les toilettes? – “Where are the toilets?”

It's worth learning this phrase, because you might need it in a hurry! Où sont les toilettes means “where are the toilets?”

Although if you want to use a public toilet, you could be searching for a long time.

They aren't very common in France – and if you do find one, you'll probably have to pay to use it. You're probably better off buying something in a café and using their toilets instead.

(Why is it “ où sont “, when previously we used “ où est “? Easy: sont means “are” while est means “is”. Since toilettes is plural, you must use sont , not est – “where are the toilets?”, rather than “where is the toilets”, which wouldn’t make sense.)

À quelle heure est-ce qu’il faut régler la note? – “What time is check out?”

If you're checking into a hotel in a French-speaking country, one useful thing to know the checkout time.

One way to find this out is to ask “ à quelle heure est-ce qu’il faut régler la note? ” – “What time must we check out?”

Another similar expression is: “ quelle est l'heure limite d'occupation? ” (Lit: “What is the occupancy cut-off time?”

La carte/le menu, s’il vous plaît. – “The menu, please.”

France is famous for its food, so while you're there, you'll probably want to dine in a restaurant or two!

When dining out in any language, there are usually a few subtleties around how to order. Here I'll explain one of the more important things to know in French: the words for “menu”.

I say “words” because there are two main ways to say “menu” in French.

The general word is carte , which you may recognise from the expression à la carte .

A carte is what you typically think of when you hear the word “menu”. It's a list of individually-priced options; you pick and choose what you want, then add up the prices to get your total bill.

But you can also ask for a menu , which is usually called a “fixed-price menu” in English. When ordering from a menu , you pick an option for each course (starter, main course, etc.) and pay the same, fixed price no matter what you selected.

Whichever option you choose, inform the serveur/serveuse (“waiter/waitress”) by saying “ la carte/le menu, s’il vous plaît ” – “the menu/fixed-price menu, please.”

Je ne peux pas manger… – “I can’t eat…”

This doesn't apply to everybody, but for those to whom it does apply, it's very important: informing the waiter about your dietary restrictions.

The simplest way to do this is to say “ je ne peux pas manger de X ” – “I can't eat X”. Here are some of the more common ways to fill in the blank:

• cacahuètes – peanuts
• noix – nuts
• gluten – gluten
• fruits de mer – shell fish
• œufs – eggs
• poisson – fish
• produits laitiers – dairy products
• viande – meat

If you're vegetarian, say so with “ je suis végétarien ” (for men) or “ végétarienne ” (for women.)

A vegan is a “ végétalien(ne) “, although végan/végane is sometimes used too.

You could also explain “ je ne consomme pas de produits animaux .” – “I don't consume animal products”

Nous voudrions commander maintenant. – “We would like to place an order now.”

To “order” in French is commander , when you're talking about ordering something in a restaurant.

Don't confuse this with ordonner , which is used in the sense of “to order a person to do something”, such as in the military.

After receiving the carte or the menu , and perhaps informing the waiter of your dietary restrictions, you may be given some time to make a decision. When you're ready, say “ nous voudrions commander maintenant ” – “we'd like to order now.”

It’s also acceptable in nearly any restaurant to use on instead of nous for we, as I mentioned earlier: On voudrait commander maintenant.

Or if you're by yourself, say je voudrais (I'd like) instead of nous voudrions (we'd like). Bon appétit!

L’addition, s’il vous plaît. – “The bill, please”

One final bit of restaurant-related vocabulary – the bill (or “check” if you're American) is l'addition .

So when you're ready to leave, say l’addition, s’il vous plaît – “the bill, please”.

You’ll often hear la facture used in Quebec instead of l’addition – however both are perfectly understandable to waitstaff.

Other French Phrases for Out and About in France:

• Can you help me please? – Pouvez-vous m'aider s'il vous plaît?
• I would like… – Je voudrais…
• I’d like one of those please – J'en voudrais un s'il vous plait
• Three: Trois
• Four: Quatre
• Five: *Cinq

Learn more: French Numbers: Counting in French from 1 – 100+

Romantic French Phrases

Je t'aime – “i love you”.

Finally, let’s talk about love.

They say that French is a romantic language, so maybe in your travels you'll find love on the road? Or maybe after you get home, you'll want to use your newfound French skills to woo that special someone.

So how do you say “I love you” in French?

The French word for “to love” is adorer – but you generally only use this word when talking about things rather than people, for example to say that you love a place, book, or song.

When talking to a person, say je t'aime . Aimer usually means “like”, but in this context it means “love” in the most romantic of senses. Use it wisely!

Here are some other romantic French phrases:

• My heart – Mon cœur
• My love – Mon amour
• You’re beautiful – Tu es belle (to a woman); Tu es beau (to a man)
• You’re too cute – Tu es trop mignon
• I like you (Lit: “You please me”) – Tu me plais

Bonus: French Slang

Wondering what a famous French saying is that you could use in everyday life? Or how do you say “cool” in French slang?

Here are some bonus French sayings and slang to level up your French:

• Cool – Cool (yes, really! Just say it with a French accent 😉)
• Awesome – Génial
• That sucks – C’est nul
• That’s great – C’est top
• Don’t worry – T'inquiète
• Losing my mind – Perdre la tête

Over to You

Can you think of any other useful French phrases for tourists? What are the most important words and phrases for beginners to know? Let us know in the comments.

And if you’re ready to learn more French, check out the 111 core French words that are commonly used. Or learn some more fun French slang !

Benny Lewis

Founder, Fluent in 3 Months

Fun-loving Irish guy, full-time globe trotter and international bestselling author. Benny believes the best approach to language learning is to speak from day one .

Speaks: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Esperanto, Mandarin Chinese, American Sign Language, Dutch, Irish

Have a 15-minute conversation in your new language after 90 days

Survival French: 120 Must-know Phrases for visitors to France

• Post category: French Language / Travel to France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

If you are planning a trip in France, you may want to learn a few french travel phrases to make the most of your visit. Travel can be stressful, so there’s no better way to calm your nerves than by understanding the local language .

The French are notoriously shy about speaking English, so a few phrases in French is bound to put everyone at ease. In this article, I will cover some useful phrases in various instances, from asking directions, ordering at a restaurant, going somewhere in a taxi, etc.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the top useful French travel phrases for your big trip to France. Allons-y!

Greetings and general phrases

There is quite a lot of different French greetings but the most basic is the Bonjour . If there is only one word to remember on your trip, this is the one.

Asking for help

You can find more information on calling emergency numbers in France here.

At the airport

Food, restaurants and dining out

You can find more French food culinary terms here and top foods to eat in France here.

At a train station

For more numbers in French , you can find my printable here.

In a museum

You can find the top museums in Paris here.

If you enjoyed that article, you may like to download the list in printable format below. You can also read more about traveling to Paris here. A bientôt!

You Might Also Like

27 Best UNESCO world heritage sites in France

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30 French Phrases You Absolutely Need When Visiting France

• Read time 16 mins

Today I’ve gathered up 30 of the most important French phrases when visiting France to share with you.

France is a dream destination for many and one of the most popular places to travel.

Traveling is a fascinating experience unlike anything else. If you want to get the most out of your journey, try engaging local people in their own language. Maybe your French sounds more like Pepe le Pew and you’re afraid that you’ll be laughed at.

The American stereotype of the French and native French speakers is not necessarily flattering and if you believe that, it might discourage you from trying.

The truth is that Franco-phones are very proud of their native tongue, and as such, they insist that it be spoken properly.

So if a French person corrects your French, take it as a compliment that they want to help you become better at their beloved language.

Try one of these French phrases out on your waitress, hotel clerk, or a passerby and see how much more interested they become! (here’s a pronunciation guide if you need it).

There are also some great online French courses , podcasts and apps that will take you beyond a few simple phrases.

Essential French phrases:

1. bonjour monsieur / madame (hello sir / madam).

If you only learn one of these French phrases well, let it be this polite greeting.

Bonjour means “hello” in French or more literally good (bon) day (jour).

It’s more than just a polite phrase; greeting a shop owner or employee with “bonjour monsieur/madame” – “hello sir/ma’am”, is not only a cultural norm, but it changes the tone of your visit drastically.

Just greeting the shopkeeper shows that you respect them and that you want to communicate with them, and no one can help you find exactly what you’re looking for like the owner.

Skip the bonjour and all you’re likely to get is a cold and unimpressive visit.

Some other ways to greet people is “Bonsoir” (bon swah) or good evening, and “salut” (sa loo): hi.

2. Comment allez-vous? (How are you?)

“How are you doing” or more literally “how are you going”.

It’s a formal way of initiating polite conversation.

If you were talking to a friend, you might say ça va (sa va)? meaning “it goes?” To respond, you answer in the same manner, changing your intonation to match your mood. Ça va with a sigh means something very different than ça va said with an exclamation point.

3. S’il vous plaît (Please)

Every traveler should know how to say “please” in the local language.

S’il vous plaît is “if it pleases you”.

Another version you might hear is “s’il te plaît” – the difference is which form of “you” you use. In French, “vous” is you in the plural, and also a formal address.

Te (or tu, but let’s leave pronoun troubles for another day) is for someone you know well, a friend, a family member, or a child.

4. Merci / merci beaucoup (Thanks / Thanks a lot)

Practically everyone knows how to say “thank you” in French.

If you want to make it a big thank you, add on “beaucoup” – many, making the phrase into “many thanks”.

5. De rien (You’re welcome)

“De rien” is the most familiar way to say “you’re welcome”, but not the only way.

“De rien” translates directly to “of nothing”, or in effect, “it was nothing.”

You’ll be safe using this phrase in most cases, but if you want more options, try “pas de quoi” (pah duh kwah) meaning “no need (to mention it)” or “avec plaîtir” (ah vehk plah zeeyuh) – with pleasure.

The latter is more common in the south of France.

6. Oui, s’il vous plaît / non, merci (Yes please / No thanks)

Oui and non are essential words to get you around Paris.

Oui means yes, and you may hear the more casual “ouais” or “ouaip” – the equivalent of “yeah” or “yep” in English. Non means just what it sounds like – no.

Another way to say yes is “si”, though it’s not used the same way as in Spanish.

“Si” is when you want to contradict someone’s statement or question by saying “yes”. For example, a French person asks, “vous n’aimez pas le chocolat – you don’t like chocolate?” to which, if you do in fact like chocolate, you would say, “Si, j’aime le chocolat – yes, I like chocolate.” (duh)!

7. Je m’appelle… (My name is…)

Now we’re getting into some harder French phrases.

Do you want to tell someone what your name is? Use “je m’appelle” or in English, “I call myself.” This is the most ordinary phrase, but if you want to say “my name is” that would be “mon nom est”.

It’s not very common, however, to use that particular wording.

If you want to ask someone else’s name, say “comment vous appelez-vous?” (KOmon vooz AH play voo).

If you were to be asking in a less formal setting, say to a child, you would use the “tu” form of the question: “Comment t’appelles-tu” (KOmon TAPleh too).

The grammar here is called a reflexive verb, where the object of the verb reflects back to the subject. I call myself, you call yourself, they call themselves, all use this reflexive form.

Several verbs use this form, but for the average traveler, they’re not very useful.

8. À bientôt (Goodbye)

You’ve made a friend in your travels and you’ve made plans to meet up again later.

When you say goodbye to them for the day you can say “à bientôt” meaning “see you soon”.

For more formal or long term goodbyes you can use “au revoir” (oh ruh vwah) or “adieu” (ah dyoo).

9. Pouvez-vous m’aider? (Can you help me?)

To ask someone if they can help you, start with “pouvez-vous” which means “can you” or more exactly “are you able to”, then fill in the blank with what you’re asking of them.

Pouvez-vous m’aider is “can you help me”, another handy phrase is “pouvez-vous prendre ma/notre photo? Can you take my/our picture?”

Another handy phrase is “pouvez-vous me dire les directions?” – “Can you tell me directions?” if you’ve lost your way.

Phrases for asking questions in French:

10. combien ça coute (how much does this cost).

Not all prices are labeled in shops, so before you get yourself into some major sticker shock, ask the shopkeeper “combien ça coute” How much does this cost? (You would ask for the price after greeting the owner with “bonjour” and maybe a question like Qu’est-ce que c’est? (what is it?))

11. Je voudrais cela (I would like this one)

You’ve been shopping at the chocolaterie (chocolate shop – an essential word in Paris!) and you’re ready to indulge in some edible heaven.

To ask for a specific bonbon (or pastry or cheese or perfume or purse or whatever) you tell the owner “je voudrais cela” – “I would like this one”.

12. Comment dit-on _____ en Français? (How do you say… in French?)

You want to say “I’m looking for my wallet”, but you don’t know how to say “wallet” in French.

To ask how you would say a word in French, ask “comment dit-on “wallet” en Français?” (P.S. It’s portefeuille).

Since most French people speak English, sometimes better than you, they’ll be able to understand what you want to know.

A word on the pronoun “on” (pronounced with the nose and without the “n”): Most folks who’ve studied at least a little French know the pronoun “nous” for the collective “we” in English.

In fact, French has two pronouns that work for “we”, and it also means “a person/people in general”.

English used to use a form of this, but one doesn’t use it much anymore, as one might confuse one’s listeners. (See what I did there?)

13. Où sont les toilettes? (Where are the toilets?)

A very important question to ask – where are the toilets?

You might have learned this question as “où est la salle de bain” but people might point you to the nearest bathtub; “salle de bain” is literally the room where you take a bath.

If you’re looking for free public restrooms, good luck – most of the public toilets in Paris are pay-to-use.

Best to just order a croissant at a café and use their restroom.

Food phrases in French:

14. excuse moi (excuse me).

Use this self-explanatory phrase to get someone’s attention, like to move out of the way when you need to exit the metro, or when you want to get a waiter’s attention.

A soft “excuse moi” is usually enough to get someone’s attention.

And for the love of French stereotypes of Americans, don’t use “garçon” to call your waiter, it’s demeaning and will mark you as one of “ces Americians” (those Americans).

On the same note as the word “garçon”, another often confused word we use in English that we borrowed from French is “chef”.

In French this doesn’t mean the cook – that would be “cuisinier” – “chef” actually means “boss”.

So if you call the head cuisinier “chef” then technically you’re right – he’s the boss of the restaurant.

But you would also call the head of the bank “le chef”, whether or not he can cook.

15. Je ne peux pas manger… (I can’t eat…)

If you’re concerned that you’ll be served a dish containing foods that you’re allergic to, you can tell your server “Je ne peux pas manger” – “I am not able to eat” or “I can’t eat.”

Some common food allergies in French are:

Les produit laitiers – dairy products (lay prod oohee lay tee ah)

Le gluten – gluten (luh gluten)

Les noix – nuts (lay nwah)

Les cacahuètes – peanuts (lay cah cah oowet)

La viande – meat (lah VEE yand)

Les fruits de mer – shellfish (lay fwee duh meh)

Le soja – soy (luh sojza)

Les œufs – eggs (lays oofs)

Notice the different article forms; like Spanish and Italian French nouns have an associated “gender” and articles and adjectives agree in gender and number with the subject, the assignment of gender doesn’t always follow sensible patterns. There’s little help but to memorize that soy is masculine and meat is feminine.

16. Je suis vegetarien / ne or vegan / e (I am a vegetarian / vegan)

I’m vegetarian or vegan.

The different endings indicated by the slash are masculine and feminine forms, and they have a slightly different pronunciation.

You might get a quizzical look if you as a man said that you were “vegetarienne”.

Another solid choice if you’re uncertain is to say “je ne mange pas la viande/les produits des animeux.” – “I don’t eat meat/animal products.”

17. Le menu / la carte, s’il vous plaît (The menu, please)

Welcome to the wonderful world of French cuisine.

Eating at a Parisian restaurant can be quite the cultural experience. When you ask for “le menu” you surprisingly won’t get the kind of comprehensive list of choices and their prices.

Le menu in a French restaurant is a fixed price and lists a few different choices for each course.

Think of those wedding rehearsal dinners or company Christmas parties where you’re given a short menu to choose from.

La carte, on the other hand, is what you’d expect at a restaurant in America.

This is where you order whatever you want off the list – a la carte, as it were.

18. Je voudrais un verre du vin (I would like a glass of wine)

To say and taste “vin” correctly, you have to use your nose.

Vin is a very nasal sound, similar to the French “on”.

To tell your server that you want a glass of wine to start your meal, say “Je voudrais un verre du vin”.

19. Délicieux! (Delicious!)

Paris is famous for its cuisine scene, with hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and bistros that make you want to become an expat.

If you want to let your waiter know just how good you think your meal is, tell him “C’est délicieux!” – “It’s delicious!”

However, unless you want to sound like a tourist don’t say “tres délicieux”.

It’s redundant since “very” is implied in the “délicieux”.

You could use “c’est vraiment bien”, which translates to “it’s truely good”.

Using French phrases to get around:

20. ou est la gare / le métro / l’aeroport (where is the train station / metro / airport).

Sometimes the most stressful part of travel is getting from point A to point B.

Getting lost and trying to get unlost is also a memorable way to connect with the local people.

To ask where something is, say “ou est la gare/le métro/l’aeroport” Where is the train station/métro/airport? “Ou est _____” is a handy little phrase to ask “where is _____”.

Adding any location to the end of it will have you pointed in the right direction in no time.

For example, “ou est le musee du Louvre?” is “where is the Louvre”.

Parisians call this famous landmark by its full name – the Louvre Museum.

21. C’est à droite / gauche / tout droite (It’s to the right / left / straight ahead)

In response to asking direction, if you’re fortunate enough to find a Parisian kind enough to reply in French to your less than perfect French, you might here “C’est a droite (right)/gauche (left)/tout droite (straight)” It is to the right/left/straight ahead.

To remember that “toute droite” is “straight”, think of the literal translation, which is “all right”.

If something is all right, then you don’t need to change your direction.

22. C’est loin d’ici / près d’ici? (Is it far from here / near here?)

It’s far from/near to here.

If you’re unsure how to phrase a question, you can always use the statement form such as “c’est loin d’/près d’ici” which means “it is far from/near to here”, and raise your intonation to indicate you’re asking a question.

You can change the meaning of what you’re asking by replacing “c’est” with what you’re asking about – la gare, le métro, l’aeroport, etc.

The preposition “de” doesn’t translate neatly into English; unless you want to go down the rabbit hole of prepositions now, just know that it can mean both “from” and “to”.

You may be asking “what’s with the apostrophe doing in loin d’ici, and in l’aeroport?” It’s used in French to avoid awkward diphthongs, or two vowel sounds together. This is part of what makes French sound so musical.

So instead of saying de ici, you contract the two words into d’ici.

The same works for the articles “le” and “la” in front of a noun that starts with a vowel sound – including words like “l’hôpital” and “l’hôtel” – both pronounced without the “h” sound.

23. Je cherche un bon restaurant (I’m looking for a good restaurant)

It’s dinner time and you want to know where the locals go for a good meal.

Tell someone “Je cherche un bon restaurant” and you’ve said, “I’m looking for a good restaurant”.

Resist the temptation to put “pour” after “cherche”, the verb “chercher” literally translates to “to search for” something.

Some other handy things to look for in Paris:

une fromagerie – cheese shop (oon frohm ah jzeh ree)

une chocolaterie – chocolate shop (oon shoh coh lah teh ree)

un parc – a park (ohn pahk)

le centre-ville – the town center (luh sehnt reh vee)

la plage (lah plahzj)

24. Au secours (Help)

If you get into trouble on your trip, say “au secours” to ask for help.

I can’t understand you!

25. Plus lentement / parlez plus lentement s’il vous plaît (Slower / Speak slower, please)

Sometimes it’s not what you don’t know, it’s how fast it’s said.

Parisians are notoriously fast speakers and no matter how many words you know, you just can’t understand because someone’s speaking too quickly.

There’s no shame in asking someone to slow down – “Plus lentement” or “parlez plus lentement, s’il vous plaît” will tell someone more slowly or speak more slowly, please.

26. Je ne comprende pas (I don’t understand)

Another essential phrase, when you just don’t understand someone and you need clarification, say, “Je ne comprende pas”.

At this point, the person speaking may just switch to English to help you.

27. Pardon? (Pardon)

Pardon is a handy word that has many uses.

It’s usually translated as “sorry”.

A common use is “I beg your pardon” if you accidentally run into someone or commit a Parisian faux pas.

28. Parlez-vous anglais (Do you speak English?)

Sometimes you just need to communicate in a familiar language and you don’t want to try using the few French Phrases you know.

When that happens, it still shows respect if you initiate communication in French with “parlez-vous anglais?” or “do you speak English?”

29. Je ne parle pas [beaucoup de] francais (I don’t speak [good] French)

In the event that you’re mistaken for a Parisian and another traveler or even a local (it’s been known to happen on occasion) will start speaking to you in French.

To politely say “I don’t speak French”, say “je ne parle pas francais” or “je ne parle pas beaucoup de francais” to indicate that you don’t speak much French.

You could also stammer in confused English or stare in confusion and shock, but just saying you don’t speak French is preferable.

30. Je t’aime (I love you)

And to end our fly-over of basic French phrases here’s one of the most loved phrases for travelers to use.

Tell someone “je t’aime” and you’re telling them that you love them.

Use it at your own discretion!

There’s a difference between the words “aime” and “adore” in French.

They mean the same thing, but “adore” is used for objects and things, like “j’adore Paris”, but for people, use “aime”.

To emphasise how much you love someone, say “je t’aime bien” – I like you VERY WELL.

French phrases will make your trip to France so much better

One quick word on the pronunciation of these French phrases: they are written to help the average English speaker, but the sounds are gentler than we would use in English, especially the vowel sounds.

Moving your sound slightly forward in your mouth will soften those American tendencies to flatten vowels and over-articulate consonants.

Speaking a foreign language in front of a native speaker is intimidating , especially with a culture that loves their language the way Parisians do.

But just give it a try – chances are even if your pronunciation is less than parfait (perfect), most people will appreciate that you’ve at least tried to meet them where they are.

The few that don’t appreciate it, well, too bad for them.

There are plenty more who will appreciate it and those encounters are what makes travel so rewarding.

Bon voyage! 🙂

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Loretta HOgg

This was awesome, merci beaucoup - c’etais une de plus mieux qui j’ai vu pendant ma dix ans. d’apprendre le français. j;’enverrai mon fils de 32 and qui best enthusiast d’apprendre français, merci Loretta,

REPLY TO LORETTA HOGG

Jérôme Paul

Bonjour, Very useful sentences if you have to stay in France or in a French-speaking country. The basic, I would say. But I saw some small (typing) errors. It would be great if you could fix them. 10. Combien ça coûte ? 14. Excusez-moi (‘excuse-moi’ is too familiar) 16. végétarien 18. un verre de vin 20. Où est la gare, l’aéroport ? 21. tout droit 26. Je ne comprends pas. 29. Je ne parle pas [bien] français. Voilà, thanks for all the content on the site. Jérôme

REPLY TO JÉRÔME PAUL

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10 Essential Tips for Visiting Paris (+ Helpful French Phrases)

Eric Jay Toll

Paris is a global tourist destination, the heart of Europe. People arrive worldwide, so prime visiting time in the summer means crowds, premium prices, and lines. Bookmark Visit Paris  for great information.

You want to stay in Île de France, the city center, which is historic Paris. You’ll be close to many places you’d like to visit. Staying in the Ninth Arrondissement was convenient for all the major sights to see. I prepared a detailed 7-day itinerary for touring Paris from this hub. And, following, are my top tips for visiting.

Customs and Immigration

If you’re not already a Trusted Traveler , you should be in TSA PreCheck ($78) for all your domestic flights. The international program, Global Entry ($100), is worth enrollment.

However, in 2023, delays in processing result in needing a year lead time to enter either of the programs.

Why do I recommend it? With a U.S. passport, no visa is required for entry into France. Entering the country was simply standing in line at passport control. The French are very efficient.

Returning to the U.S. with Global Entry, there was no waiting in line, luggage was scanned, not inspected, and I was through U.S. immigration in minutes. It took longer to walk from the plane to Customs and Immigration than it took to go through the process.

If Paris is on the agenda for next year, apply right now.

Remember to let your bank and credit card companies know you’re going to Europe to avoid declined payments when using your cards. Even though there will be fees, upon arriving, find a bank ATM and use your debit card to ensure it’s working. U.S. cash is not welcome in France.

Before leaving the US, I purchased about €200 from my bank to ensure I had some ready cash. The exchange rate at the time only cost me $193, but by the time I was in Paris, €1 was about US$1.15, so my $193 Forex investment was worth $230, a 19 percent gain.

Most places, particularly cafés bring WiFi-enabled card readers to your table, so you never have to surrender possession of your credit card. Virtually every store I shopped had “tap” readers, so my phone was my primary credit card and my wallet rarely left my zipper-closed pocket.

Reserve ‘Skip-the-Line’ Tickets

Decide in advance what sights to see and get timed entry skip-the-line tickets . You can buy them from ticket sites, but check the venue’s official website; the tickets may be more accessible and cheaper than through a broker.

You’ll pay a premium for line-skipping tickets, so the choice is to spend more to see more or stand in line. In May, there was a three-hour wait to take elevators up the Eiffel Tower and a five-minute hold with a timed entry ticket .

The line was an hour long at Arc de Triomphe and no wait at all with a timed entry ticket .

You may want to take sightseeing tours or a Seine River cruise, but self-guided lets you move at your own pace. Tours can be helpful for a day trip, such as Monet’s Giverny Gardens or the Palace of Versailles.

Judiciously Choose Guided Tours

At other sites, such as Opera Garnier , you’ll want to take a guided tour and learn its history and the meaning behind the paintings and carvings. Guided tours in Musée du Louvre , the Louvre museum will rapidly get you to the most famous masterpieces, such as the Mona Lisa.

Bus tours are okay, and some are better than others.

Jake and Sarah from Savannah, Georgia, sat beside us at the Paris Auber outdoor café table. Learning it was a first-time Paris trip, we started sharing experiences.

“We took a bus tour that promised to hit several places we wanted to see,” Sarah said. “We saw them, but that’s about it. We were rushed through or around, then dropped at souvenir shops for a long time. It was not a good time.”

Wandering at one’s own pace allows much more time for a complete Paris experience, including talking with people at the ubiquitous outdoor cafes.

Sitting on the other side of Jake, Jean-Paul joined in, speaking English in a thick French accent.

“Those tours just want to take you to the shops because they get, how do you say it? Kickers.”

“Kickbacks,” corrected Jake.

“Oui,” Jean-Paul said. “Kickbacks.”

You’re an American in Paris, dance down the street, sing out loud while walking Champs-Élysée, and skip Disneyland Paris—you can do Disneyland in Florida or California.

Know Where You’re Going

I recommend adding a GPS tracking app to your phone to record your movements. AllTrails , GaiaGPS , or Strava  are popular apps that have that feature. Recording where you’re going will also help you return to the hotel. It also records where you’ve been to match with photos taken on the trip.

Most shopkeepers and Parisians speak some English but experience the culture and learn key phrases in French.

Online language programs have short “visit-oriented” courses. At the end of this article, learn the key phrases that help make your visit more fun. If you had French in high school or college, you’d be amazed at how fast your memory brings it back.

By my fourth day in Paris, I spoke and listened in French about half the time. By the end of the trip, I was up to more than 80 percent of the time.

“Pardon ma français, il est terrible. Allez-nous à l’Hôtel Saint Petersbourg.” Virtully the first French words spoken in Paris after debarking in Gare Nord (North Train Station), I said to my taxi driver.

“Oh you mean ‘emmène-moi à l’Hôtel Saint Petersbourg,” he replied in English. “Vous sont dans Étas-Unis?” (You are from the United States).

He turned in his seat and said, “I practice my English with you; you practice your French with me.”

And we did for the 20-minute drive.

“You are in the middle of everything,” he told me while pointing and navigating insane traffic. “There’s Opéra Garnier, you must see it. Musée du Louvre is a 15-minute walk that way.”

It adds to the experience of being in a foreign country. You won’t be mistaken for a Parisian, but locals will appreciate your making an effort—and as I learned, many will want to practice their English with you.

Where to Stay

Paris has an extraordinary variety of hotels , pensions, AirBnBs, and resorts. Check reviews carefully and understand that French hotel rooms may differ from those found in the U.S. Location is very important.

Staying near Opéra Garnier, within one block of each of three Metro stations, was so convenient for subway or walking. The most straightforward transportation in Paris is by foot or the Metro.

We were less than 15 minutes from nearly all the significant Paris places we wanted to visit. For anything further or far from a Metro station, we used Uber.

Many European hotels have twin or double beds instead of queens or kings. In addition, ensure the hotel offers a private, in-room bathroom.

Jumping Jet Lag

It’s a real thing. There are many ways to combat it, but what worked for me was the advice of Jim Hamel, the leader of our photography group in Paris.

“I like to take overnight flights,” he said. “After dinner, I’ll take a sleeping pill, pull on some blinders and earplugs, and let myself fall asleep.”

Since you’ll arrive in Paris in the morning, after clearing immigration, it’s daylight to be enjoyed. Take a nap after checking into the hotel, but keep yourself going while the sky is bright.

Changing Eating Habits

Parisians eat on a different schedule than Americans. Meals are later in the day. In the Ninth Arrondissement, finding an early-opening coffee shop was impossible. Even Starbucks didn’t open until 7:30, and most others, 8:00.

The hotel served breakfast at 7:00, and I was the only person in the dining room until 7:30.

Lunch is after 13:00; France uses a 24-hour clock. 1:00 p.m. is 13;00, 6:00 p.m. is 18:00, and dinner is generally after 20:00, 8:00 p.m. Join the Parisians and eat later than expected.

Pickpockets in Paris

The song goes, “Werewolves in London,” and perhaps it could be parodied as “Pickpockets in Paris.” They are so common it’s almost a romantic occupation in Paris. Pickpockets are everywhere and very sophisticated.

The  State Department has a website  with recommendations to avoid being a victim. In any situation where you find yourself being forced into distraction, bully your way through quickly or raise your voice, “Police.”

Number one on the list is to maintain absolute control and possession of your driver’s license and passport. I kept mine in a zippered inner pocket of my  Clothing Arts  pickpocket-proof pants. I learned about these pants while doing pre-trip research and decided to purchase several pairs. In the one situation where I was being swarmed, they protected me from sticky fingers.

Ignore distractions, ignore swarms, and move quickly from the areas. There are many tips on being prepared and responsive from sources like our partner,  Trip Advisor .

Essential French Words and Phrases

My personal experience is that Parisians appreciate you trying to speak their language.

When entering a shop, it’s expected you will greet the proprietor and clerks. “Bonjour monsieur” and “Bonjour madame” are the minimum.

To be extra polite, ask how they are feeling. A typical entrée greeting could be “Bonjour, madame. Comment vas-tu?” That’s, “Hello, madame. How are you?” They’ll usually reply, “C’est va, et vous?” which means, “Fine, how are you.” Your response is “C’est va.”

I almost always started my conversations after the greeting with, “Pardon, ma français est terrible,” which means, “Pardon me, my French is terrible.” It always got a laugh, sympathy, and assistance. Babbel  offers a “vacation” version of its language learning program.

Basic French Words

You can use the audio feature in Google Translate to hear the pronunciations.

• Hello: Bonjour
• Goodbye: Au revoir
• Goodnight: Bonne soir, or bonne nuit
• Please: S’il vous plaît
• Thank you: Merci
• You’re welcome: De rien
• Very pretty: Très jolie
• Beautiful: Beau (masculine), belle (feminine)

Common French Phrases

• How are you?:  Comment vas-tu?
• I am well, and you?: Ça va, et vous?
• What is your name?: Comment vous appelez-vous?
• My name is…: Je m’appelle…
• Excuse me: Pardon
• I don’t know: Je ne sais pas
• I don’t understand: Je ne comprends pas

Basic French Phrases for Travelers

• Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais?
• I’m lost: Je suis perdu
• Where is the bathroom?: Où sont les toilettes?
• I’m sorry: Je suis désolé
• Where is…: Où est… (For example, “Where is the Opera Garnier?” translates to “Où est l’Opéra Garnier?”)
• How much is…: Combien… (“Combien cette robe?” means “How much is this dress?”)
• I would like…: Je voudrais…
• A beer: Une bière
• A glass of wine: Un verre de vin
• A coffee: Un café

Paris   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Farley | Getty Images

32 Best Things to Do in Paris, France

If it's your first visit to Paris, you'll probably want to spend some time at the world-renowned  Eiffel Tower , the Louvre (home of the "Mona Lisa") and the Notre-Dame. Don't miss out on other notable city jewels either, such as the Musée

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For the best photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower, head to Place du Trocadéro. (Just expect to contend with some crowds!) – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Designed and constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World's Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure, but it has skirted demolition twice. The first time, in 1909, the tower was kept around because of its potential as a transmission tower (an antenna was installed atop the tower). Gustav Eiffel, chief architect of the Eiffel Tower, had a variety of scientific experiments tested on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan. One of these included a wireless transmissions test, which the tower passed with flying colors. During World War I, the Eiffel Tower's transmission capabilities enabled it to intercept communications from enemies as well as relay intel to troops on the ground. The second time the Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed was during the German occupation of France during World War II. Hitler planned to get rid of the tower, but never ended up going through with his plan.

Musée du Louvre Musée du Louvre

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The Louvre is free for all visitors on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August), and all day on Bastille Day (July 14). – Laura French  

If you only had time to visit one museum in Paris, it should undoubtedly be the Musée du Louvre. That's because the Louvre is not only widely considered to be one of the best art museums in Europe, but one of the best in the world. The museum first opened its doors in 1793 and features more than 35,000 works of art on display. Here, you can get up close to a variety of art from different time periods and cultures. The Louvre features everything from Egyptian mummy tombs to ancient Grecian sculptures (including the renowned Winged Victory of Samothrace and curvaceous Venus de Milo). There are also thousands of paintings to peruse as well. Masterpieces such as "Liberty Leading the People" by Eugene Delacroix, "The Raft of the Medusa" by Théodore Géricault and Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," the museum's biggest star, can be found here.

Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) free

Note that the cathedral sustained significant damage as a result of a fire on April 15, 2019. Its wooden roof and spire collapsed during the fire. The interior of the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. It is set to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit that debuted in March 2023. It's located in an underground facility in front of the cathedral, the free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site, including the expertise of the workers, as well as some remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral. There are also free, volunteer-led informational tours around the outside of the cathedral select days of the week. Consult this online calendar to see when English tours are offered.

Like the Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen as a Parisian icon. Located along the picturesque River Seine , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and is often regarded as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral started in the late 12th century and final touches weren't made until nearly 200 years later. Once you get an eyeful of the cathedral yourself, you'll start to understand why it took so long.

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Champs-Élysées Champs-Élysées free

Musician Joe Dassin once sang "Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Élysées," which translates to "There's everything you could want along the Champs-Élysées." And he's right. Paris' most famous boulevard – stretching more than a mile from the glittering obelisk at Place de la Concorde to the foot of the Arc de Triomphe – is a shopper's mecca. Along its wide, tree-lined sidewalks, you'll find such luxury stores as Louis Vuitton and Chanel rubbing elbows with less-pricey establishments like Adidas and Zara.

While the Champs-Élysées is no doubt a shopping paradise, recent travelers noticed the price tags at most stores can be pretty high. And the more affordable options are constantly swamped with people. The Champs-Élysées itself is no different. Because this is such a famous street in Paris, expect there to be crowds galore, both during the day and the nighttime. Still, many travelers enjoyed taking in the Champs-Élysées' bustling atmosphere and observing both locals and tourists come and go. Some recent visitors said a trip to the Champs-Élysées is not complete without a stop at Ladurée, the city's famous macaron shop.

Arc de Triomphe Arc de Triomphe

Situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées , the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon to honor the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. The arch, which is the largest of its kind in the world, is adorned with several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean's Empire, as well as generals who fought in them. Travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The flame that was lit when the soldier was laid to rest has not extinguished since it was initially lit in the 1920s, and is rekindled every night at 6:30 p.m. by a member of the armed services.

Aside from admiring the arch, visitors can climb to the top and take in the Parisian panorama. Most visitors are wowed by the immense size of the structure and recommend ascending to the top for the spectacular Paris views. Visitors caution that you'll have to wait in line to get to the top and the climb, which is made up of hundreds of stairs, can be a serious workout. Others strongly cautioned against trying to cross the roundabout to get to the Arc. Instead, take the underground tunnel near the metro that leads directly to the base of the structure.

Latin Quarter Latin Quarter free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in the area, check out the Grand Mosquée de Paris, next to the Jardin des Plantes. It's a beautiful mosque with a hidden-away courtyard, and there's an atmospheric tearoom attached that serves Middle Eastern sweet treats. – Laura French

Architecture lovers should not miss the Latin Quarter. Also known as the 5th arrondissement, the Latin Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris. Its narrow cobblestone streets, winding whimsically through the larger city grid, recall its medieval history. Why does this densely packed neighborhood of attractions, shops and restaurants retain this unique character? It escaped Baron Haussmann's planning reform of the city, thus retaining a more ancient ambience.

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Seine River Seine River free

You won’t have much trouble finding the Seine, as it flows directly through the heart of Paris. The river is perhaps one of the most famous waterways in the world and an attraction in itself. It's also useful for more practical reasons: It flows from east to west, dividing the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. Knowing where you are in relation to the Seine can help you find your way around during your trip.

For tourists, the waterway mostly serves as a photo backdrop, but it is a lifeline for locals. It's a reliable water supply, a major transportation route and vital for many kinds of commerce. It has also served as a source of sustenance for many fishermen dating back to the third century. In 1991, the Seine River was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance in both the past and the present.

Musée d'Orsay Musée d'Orsay

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry (when it’s also free to enter the Centre Pompidou, Musée de l'Orangerie, Musée du Rodin, Musée Picasso and several other attractions). – Laura French

Although the extensive Louvre may appear to get most of the Parisian limelight, recent travelers seem to enjoy the Musée d'Orsay more. Travelers say the museum is much more manageable than the often-overwhelming Louvre and note that there are also significantly fewer crowds here. Many visitors confidently report that you can easily get through this museum in a few hours. As for the art, travelers loved the museum's colorful collection of paintings as well as the building itself, with many calling the Belle Epoque architecture of the d'Orsay a work of art on its own.

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Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick up picnic provisions at a nearby farmer's market, such as Marché Raspail, to enjoy in the gardens. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

A warm-weather oasis that offers the simplest of pleasures, the Luxembourg Gardens provide ample green space (60 acres) for sun-soaking and people-watching, plus there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. When the city bustle becomes too overwhelming, meander around the paths and formal gardens, or just relax with a picnic. Kids can float sailboats at the Grand Basin, ride ponies, take a spin on the merry-go-round, or catch a puppet show at the on-site Theatre des Marionnettes. Adults might delight in the on-site Musée du Luxembourg, the first French museum that was opened to the public. Though with 106 sculptures to its name, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty, the Luxembourg Gardens could easily be considered an open-air museum itself.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) free

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning "Sacred Heart") looks more like a white castle than a basilica. Towering over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre (once a hangout for Paris' bohemian crowd), this Roman-Byzantine, 19th-century masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. As blanched as it may appear on the outside, the basilica's interior is a sight worth beholding: The ceilings glitter with France's largest mosaic, which depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc.

You'll also likely be left in awe with the panoramic views found from atop the Sacré-Coeur's outdoor staircase. But for an even better photo-op, climb all 300 steps to the top of the dome. The dome is accessible to visitors every day from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mass is held multiple times a day every day.

Centre Pompidou Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou is one of the most visited cultural sites in Paris. But keep this in mind – and recent travelers attest to this – if you're not a fan of modern art, you probably won't enjoy this museum. The Pompidou is all modern and contemporary art (think cubist, surrealist and pop art, among others). Even its exterior is a little "out there," with its insides (piping, plumbing, elevators, escalators, etc.) exposed on the outside.

Inside the inside-out museum, you'll find one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world (more than 120,000 pieces of art are in its complete collection). The most notable attraction within is France's National Museum of Modern Art, which features works from 20th and 21st-century artists. Here, you can find big names such as Matisse, Picasso and even Andy Warhol. Also within the Centre Pompidou is additional exhibition and entertainment spaces as well as a library, rooftop restaurant and cinemas.

Jardin des Tuileries Jardin des Tuileries free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you’re here, don’t miss Angelina, just across the street on Rue de Rivoli. This historic, belle epoque-style salon de thé opened in 1903 and serves excellent French delicacies and pastries alongside its famous, indulgently rich hot chocolate. – Laura French

Centrally located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is a free public garden that spans approximately 55 acres. Though it was initially designed solely for the use of the royal family and court, the park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991 (as part of the Banks of the Seine) and has been open to the public since the 17th century.

Sainte-Chapelle Sainte-Chapelle

Nowhere in Paris does stained-glass windows quite as well as Sainte-Chapelle. The panes – dating back to the chapel's construction in the 13th century – depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments of the Bible in vivid color. Sainte-Chapelle, which took just seven years to build, is a treasured example of French Gothic architecture and originally held Christian artifacts acquired by Louis IX. The building underwent a rigorous restoration between 2008 and 2014 and now welcomes visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day, New Year's Day and May 1 (France's Labor Day). Admission costs 13 euros (about $14) per person ages 18 and older. Audio guides are available in English (among other languages) for an additional 3 euros (about $3.50). 

Recent travelers say the chapel is a true masterpiece and not to be missed, though some visitors did note it was smaller than they anticipated. Still, they say it's worth taking your time to have a closer look at each of the stained-glass windows, as they all tell a different story. Some travelers also recommended touring the Conciergerie next door, a palace turned prison that was erected in the 14th century. If you plan to tour both sites, consider purchasing a joint ticket for 20 euros (about $22).   

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Pantheon Pantheon

Situated in the Latin Quarter – or the 5th arrondissement – of Paris, the Panthéon is a large church and burial ground with a storied history. The structure was completed in 1790 at the start of the French Revolution, and it served as a mausoleum, a church and an art gallery throughout its early years. In 1851, scientist Leon Foucault installed the Foucault pendulum within the building to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth. The pendulum was removed and replaced a number of times, and a replica was installed in 1995 and is still in operation today. The Panthéon also contains a crypt where a number of important historians, philosophers, scientists and writers are buried, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Marie Curie.

Most recent travelers loved seeing the museum's noteworthy gravesites and Foucault's pendulum. They also recommended taking a dome tour for exceptional views of Paris; you’ll see the Eiffel Tower from the top, as well as many other well-known landmarks. Still, some visitors said the admission fee is too high.

Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris

A masterpiece of architectural opulence, the Opéra Garnier – also known as the Palais Garnier – still exudes the opulence it radiated in the late 1800s. This palpable sense of intrigue and mystery that permeates the opera is due in part to its awe-inspiring Old-World interiors as well as Gaston Leroux, the author of "Phantom of the Opera," for which the Garnier served as his inspiration. Leroux claimed the phantom was indeed real, successfully incorporating real life opera occurrences (such as the chandelier falling and killing a bystander) into his fiction. The Garnier's lack of a robust historical record, as well as Leroux's writing talents, have left many wondering if there really was a dweller that lurked beneath the opera. Staff have claimed otherwise, but say with the opera's very real underground "lake" (water tank), it's easy to see how the story could be so convincing. Without Napoleon III, who was responsible for commissioning the opera, Leroux's tale may never have never come to fruition.

The best way to fully experience the Palais Garnier is by purchasing a ballet or opera ticket. Remember to book your tickets several months in advance, as performances are highly coveted. If you won't be in town for a performance or aren't up for forking over the oftentimes high price of a performance, you can explore the building's magnificent interiors on your own.

Le Marais Le Marais free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest square, you’ll find the former house of Victor Hugo, which is now a museum that’s free to enter. – Laura French

Straddling the 3rd and 4th arrondissements (districts), Le Marais is one of Paris' oldest and coolest districts – so cool, in fact, that French writer Victor Hugo (author of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" and "Les Misérables") called it home. With all of its cobblestone streets, stately stone architecture and tucked away courtyards, it's easy to feel as if you're strolling through medieval Paris. Back in the day, Le Marais housed some notable French royalty. King Henry IV was the one responsible for the construction of the Place des Vosges, Paris' oldest square. And Louis XIV called this neighborhood home for a while until he decided to move his family and court to Versailles . Much of Le Marais also survived the destruction of the French Revolution.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles) Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

U.S. News Insider Tip: In summer, the palace hosts weekend fountain shows in the gardens, featuring music and special effects; come on a Saturday night to see the best, with grounds lit up to magical effect and a firework display at the end. – Laura French

The Château de Versailles, the sprawling palace and former seat of power, is located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Every year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trek from Paris to bear witness to the chateau's world-famous grandeur in person. But between all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers you'll no doubt find in bulk throughout the chateau, you might be surprised to learn that King Louis XIV's extravagant former residence had pretty humble-ish beginnings.

Musée Rodin Musée Rodin

A hidden jewel in the city, the Musée Rodin is actually the former residence of famed 19th-century sculptor Auguste Rodin. But in the place of furniture and kitschy lawn ornaments are Rodin's emotive sculptures, including The Walking Man, The Kiss and The Thinker, among many more. In addition to the sculptures, the museum houses 8,000 of the artist's drawings in its collection – a fraction of those are on display –  as well as an area dedicated to the work of his muse and mistress, artist Camille Claudel. Visitors will also get to view pieces from the Rodin's personal art collection, including paintings by Van Gogh.

Recent travelers found Rodin's sculptures to be nothing short of stunning, and highly recommend a visit even if you don't consider yourself an art buff. Another big favorite, and for some visitors as much of a highlight as the art, were the beautiful on-site gardens. To travelers, the gardens, in combination with the museum's manageable size, created a serene and peaceful atmosphere not easily found at other top Parisian museums.

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Saint-Germain-des-Prés Saint-Germain-des-Prés free

The arts abound in Paris. Although visual art gets the most attention here, the city is also a historic literary center. Saint-Germain, in the 6th arrondissement, is known as a 19th- and 20th-century intellectual hub. Here, great writers, thinkers and artists mixed and mingled in their homes and nearby establishments. Anyone battling writer's block will want to spend an afternoon wandering its picturesque streets, stopping by famous literary cafes or enjoying one of the museums located in the neighborhood's borders.

After filling your mind at the Musée Delacroix, Musée du Luxembourg or Musée de Mineralogie, unwind at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore. The former was visited by everyone from Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, James Joyce, Jean-Paul Sartre, and more recently, Julia Child. Nearby Café de Flore opened in the 1800s as well, and claims visitors from Leon Trotsky to Albert Camus to Picasso. Sartre worked from here – using the space as a historical Starbucks – while New Wave celebrities like Bridget Bardot or fashionista Karl Lagerfeld graced its seats later on, in the 1960s. There are plenty of mouthwatering pastry shops and bridge views, too. Recent visitors noted that this is a perfect neighborhood for strolling, shopping or staying – there are plenty of upscale hotels . Many of the best Paris tours also include guided walks through the neighborhood.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann free

Whether or not you plan to shop, the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann department store is a sight to be seen. What started as a small novelty shop in 1893 has since grown into an approximately 750,000-square-foot megastore containing hundreds of brands, from budget-friendly options like Levi's and Carhartt to high-end labels like Prada and Cartier. And while you might be dazzled by the unending collection of fashionable goods, don’t forget to look up. The pièce de résistance of the luxury bazaar is the stunning neo-Byzantine glass dome 141 feet above the ground. There's also a glass walkway on the top floor of the building that allows the bravest of visitors to stand above all the action below. 

Several recent visitors called Galeries Lafayette the most beautiful shopping center in the world, pointing out that even if you aren't there to buy luxury products, the stunning building is a destination in itself. They also recommend going up to the roof of the complex (accessible from the eighth floor), which is open to visitors free of charge, to take in breathtaking views of the city below. From the roof, you'll be able to spot the Eiffel Tower , Sacré Cœur and Notre Dame .

Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris) Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris)

Not every inch of Paris is as romantic as you think – in fact, the Catacombs are downright chilling. Prior to the creation of the Catacombs in the late 18th century, Parisians buried their dead in cemeteries. But as the city continued to grow, burial grounds ran out of space, graves started to become exposed and stunk up surrounding neighborhoods. The limestone quarries located 65 feet beneath Paris eventually became the solution, providing ample and safe space for the city's deceased loved ones. It took years to move millions of bodies from all the Parisian graves.

Today, the solemn, skull-and-boned lined tunnels weave beneath the heart of the City of Love, beckoning to visitors with an interest in the departed. The catacombs stretch for miles all over the city, but visitors are only allowed to access about a mile's worth for 45 minutes at the Denfert-Rochereau (lines 4,6 and RER B) metro station. Trying to access the catacombs at any other entrance throughout the city is illegal. You'll want to wear sturdy footwear as the paths inside are full of gravel, uneven and even slippery in some sections. What's more, you'll have to descend 131 steps and climb 112 steps back up. As such, the catacombs are not wheelchair-accessible. And because of the attraction's unique nature and popularity, expect a queue.

Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) free

A cemetery as a tourist attraction? If any city can pull it off, it's Paris. Covering nearly 110 acres of the 20th arrondissement (district), the Père-Lachaise Cemetery is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. It's also Paris' largest green space. Père-Lachaise is a maze of cobblestone pathways lined with leafy, cascading trees which perfectly shade the striking 19th-century burial chambers that permeate the grounds. Aesthetics aside, Père-Lachaise is one of the world's most famous burial grounds: Everyone from Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison to Edith Piaf and Gertrude Stein can be found here. Make sure to pick up a map before you venture in, there are more than 100,000 burial plots here (exact estimates vary dramatically).

Travelers admitted the main reason they made the trek to Père-Lachaise was to visit the famous faces buried here, though after discovering the enchanting grounds, they were happy to stay and wander. Visitors found the architecture of the individual tombstones and burial chambers to be stunning, especially with the many dramatic statues included with the plots. Others particularly appreciate the overall peaceful atmosphere of Père-Lachaise. Because the cemetery is so big, visitors say it's unlikely you'll be sharing lots of space with fellow visitors or tourists at any given time.

Bateaux Mouches Bateaux Mouches

For those who want to cruise down the Seine River , hopping on one of the six Bateaux-Mouches boats is a go-to option. Just about any meal you can think of is offered as you glide along the river – or as the company puts it, Paris's "most beautiful avenue." There are also hourlong cruise-only trips, for those who want to efficiently view some of the city's most iconic sights, including Notre Dame and the Musée d'Orsay . These cruises are among the best Paris tours . Combo tickets that include a bus tour or a cabaret show are also available.

Travelers who recently took a cruise loved the views from the boat and the informational nature of the tour. Many people took a night cruise, which was frequently lauded for its romantic atmosphere. However, a few visitors expressed disappointment with meal portions and the check-in process.

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Musee de l'Orangerie Musee de l'Orangerie

An extension of Musée d'Orsay , Musée de l'Orangerie features a wide selection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. It is best known for its enlarged "Water Lilies" paintings by Claude Monet. The eight massive paintings are divided across two oval rooms that are filled with natural light from a glass roof. Monet increased the size of these paintings with the intention of fully immersing viewers in their beauty, especially after the hardships of World War I. Beyond the "Water Lilies" series, Musée de l'Orangerie houses the Jean Walter-Paul Guillaume collection, which features works by artists like Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, Matisse and more.  

Museum visitors – especially Monet fans – said this gallery is a must-see. They were pleased to discover it was a relatively small building, meaning it can be seen fairly quickly if you short on time. The smaller space also translates to less crowds, which many museumgoers appreciated.

Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk about 10 minutes around the corner and you’ll find the Montparnasse Cemetery – a fascinating alternative to Père Lachaise , home to the burial places of artists and intellectuals, including Jean-Paul Sartre, Samuel Beckett, Guy de Maupassant and Charles Baudelaire. – Laura French

The Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck claims to have the best views in Paris – and once you reach the top, it's easy to see why. The lower deck stands more than 650 feet high and overlooks major attractions, like the Eiffel Tower , through floor-to-ceiling windows. Travel another 32 feet upward to the rooftop terrace, and you'll find panoramic vistas of the City of Lights 365 days a year. On a clear day, you can see as far as 25 miles in every direction.

Moulin Rouge Moulin Rouge

If you're looking for the famed Parisian nightlife experience, Moulin Rouge will likely fit the bill. The legendary cabaret club opened in 1889, wowing crowds with dazzling dancers, free-flowing Champagne and outrageous elements like a gigantic model elephant in the garden. With its rich history and extravagant performances, Moulin Rouge has become an important staple in the City of Lights.

On a night at the Moulin Rouge, visitors can be wined and dined while watching talented burlesque dancers adorned in feathers, rhinestones and sequins. (The costumes are known to be a bit risqué, so travelers should note that the venue may not be the most suitable for children.) While many recent travelers felt that the show was a spectacular must-see while vacationing in Paris, others felt it was overhyped and overcrowded. However, those who opted for the dinner show said the food was fantastic with top-notch service to match.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Parc des Buttes-Chaumont free

Paris is home to many beautiful public parks, where visitors and locals alike relax in grassy squares during periods of pleasant weather. Parc de Buttes-Chaumont's 61 acres boasts this – plus a lake, a suspension bridge and walking paths – and a dark history. Its name comes from the bare hill once occupying the site. Stone was mined here, sewage dumped and even horse carcasses discarded. When Napoleon III renovated Paris in the 19th century, it was selected as a large park site, and the artificial lake created. That transformation also washed away its medieval reputation as a gallows. Known as Gibbet of Montfaucon at that time, the bodies of people executed in the city were sometimes displayed here for months on end.

If you can put that history behind you, cross the Gustave Eiffel-designed suspension bridge, or ascend the hill with the Temple de la Sybille for beautiful views of Montmartre. Inside the hillside, quarrying created a cavern. Napoleon's park builders took the opportunity to add a human-made waterfall to the 65-foot-tall space. Summer visitors will especially enjoy the misty reprieve from Paris's heat and humidity.

Conciergerie Conciergerie

Located next to Sainte-Chapelle , the Conciergerie was once a royal residence for various French leaders. At the end of the 14th century, King Charles V and the rest of the palace's inhabitants moved to new residences at the Louvre . The abandoned building was then turned into a new parliament and office space for the kingdom. However, during the French Revolution (and for many decades thereafter), the Conciergerie served as a prison compound to hold both political and common criminals. Most famously, it held Marie Antoinette, the fallen queen of France, in the weeks before she was executed by guillotine in October 1793. In the 19th century, Antoinette's cell was transformed into a chapel, and in 1914 the entire building was deemed a historic monument and opened to the public.

Recent travelers said the site is a delight for history buffs. Still, others noted that if you aren’t particularly interested in the French Revolution or Marie Antoinette, you may find the empty jail cells and barren halls a bit dull. All visitors are given a "HistoPad" (available in six languages) to help enhance their experience. The iPad allows visitors to see what the rooms would've looked like centuries ago with the help of augmented reality, 3D reconstructions and interactive functionalities.What everyone seemed to agree on was the medieval architecture, which is said to be stunning both inside and out.

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Rue de Rivoli Rue de Rivoli free

One of the most famous shopping streets in Paris, the elegant Rue de Rivoli is lined with neoclassical buildings housing designer boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants built into historic arcades. Named after Napoleon's victory at the Battle of Rivoli and stretching from Place de la Bastille in the east to Place de la Concorde, it's where you'll find the Louvre , the Jardin des Tuileries , Hôtel de Ville (Paris's elaborate city hall) and other attractions. It's also home to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville – an elaborate department store founded in 1856. Other shops range from affordable brands like Sephora, L'Occitane and Mango to high-end designer stores and local French boutiques.

Recent travelers highly recommended strolling along the street to browse its historic arcades and shops, and many were impressed by the elaborate architecture. They also enjoyed the quiet atmosphere; the street went car-free in 2020, with only pedestrians, cyclists, buses and taxis now allowed here (its former lanes have been turned into a wide bike path, so it provides a welcome respite from the city's at-times hectic traffic). Others said it was a great spot for people-watching, although some said the shops can feel a little commercial.

Bois de Vincennes Bois de Vincennes free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in the summer to catch the Paris Jazz Festival, when the Parc Floral hosts performers from Paris and beyond. – Laura French

Used as a royal hunting ground from the 12th century, this scenic, easterly refuge is Paris's biggest park, sprawling nearly 2,500 acres (making it nearly three times larger than New York's Central Park , and slightly bigger than its westerly sister, the Bois de Boulogne). It's home to verdant woodland as well as the Parc Floral, a botanical garden with its own mini golf course and various other family-friendly attractions. You'll also find four artificial lakes in the park – boats are available to rent on the Lac Daumesnil – alongside the Parc Zoologique de Paris, several cafes and restaurants and the Château de Vincennes, a lavish former royal residence built in the medieval era.

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen free

Set on the northern edge of Paris and home to the highest concentration of antiques dealers in the world, this famous flea market is a must for anyone looking to browse and buy vintage treasures. Spread across twelve covered markets and five streets, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen houses everything from 17th-century furnishings to vintage jewelry, designer clothes, art, books and beyond. When your feet need a break, there are also a handful of restaurants.

At its heart is the Marché Vernaison, an eclectic mishmash of nearly a million objects, spread across nearly 100,000 square feet and selling pretty much anything you can think of. Equally unmissable is the Marché Dauphine, which sells books, vintage records, clothes and more in a huge pavilion, and the Marché Paul Bert Serpette, an upmarket spot specializing in avant-garde interior design that's seen everyone from Julia Roberts to Mick Jagger grace its floors.

Louis Vuitton Foundation Louis Vuitton Foundation

Open to the public since October 2014, the Louis Vuitton Foundation is the brainchild of the LVMH Group (which owns luxury fashion brand Louis Vuitton) and famed American architect Frank Gehry. In addition to the art gallery, Gehry also designed the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles , among other renowned museums, university buildings and residences. Outfitted with curved panels of glass and smooth concrete, the foundation's daring and modern design stands out among Paris' abundance of centuries-old buildings. Inside, you'll find collections of modern and contemporary art housed in both permanent and temporary exhibits. The museum's goal is to promote art and culture on the outskirts of Paris, and it succeeds by attracting more than 1 million visitors each year. 

Though the museum is a bit off the beaten path in the Bois de Boulogne in the 16th arrondissement, visitors loved taking in the architectural wonder and its surrounding gardens, as well as the unique exhibits inside. One common criticism was that the building was a bit far from the nearest metro station (about a 15-minute walk), so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

Explore More of Paris

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: July 14, 2023

Categories Paris , Paris Guides , Travel Guides

Home » The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

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Bonjour, mon ami!

Welcome to your ultimate guide for navigating the City of Love like a seasoned Parisian.

As a four-year resident of this chic metropolis, I’m here to hold your hand and guide you through all the ins and outs of your Parisian escapade.

If you’re preparing for your first rendezvous with Paris, brace yourself for a whirlwind romance with one of the most breathtaking cities on the planet.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana • Where Tiana Travels (@tianabaaaby)

Everyone should have a Parisian fling at least once, and if it’s your first time, don’t sweat it!

In this très magnifique article, I’ll be your friendly neighborhood Paris expert, sharing everything from what to expect on your first visit to the must-see sights, the coziest places to rest your weary head, and how to zip around this enchanting city.

So kick back with a glass of vin rouge, slip into your favorite beret, and let’s dive into the crème de la crème of Parisian travel tips!

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes all the best foods to eat in Paris, where to eat, the top things to do and see in Paris, including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more. Find out the best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area. Links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

In this post, you'll find...

Cultural Quirks and Etiquette: Paris Edition

First-time visitors to Paris might find some cultural customs a little… well, foreign. Fear not!

There are, of course, a few things you should NOT do while in Paris – but in general, you’ll be good to go if you just follow these basic rules of French etiquette.

Here’s a crash course in Parisian etiquette:

Greetings : Handshakes are a solid first-time intro, but in social settings, Parisians love to pucker up for a cheek-to-cheek air kiss. A bit bewildering at first, but you’ll be smooching like a local in no time.

Don’t worry though, this is mostly in more intimate settings like at a house party, or meeting a mutual friend for the first time. Store owners and restaurant servers will never greet you this way!

Dress to impress : Parisians are fashion royalty, so ditch the gym gear and bling for some classy, casual threads in subdued hues. Leave the yoga pants at home, gal.

Language : Plenty of Parisians speak English, but they’ll adore you for trying your hand at some français. A heartfelt “ Bonjour ” or “ Merci ” goes a long way.

Table Manners : At restaurants, wait until everyone’s served before digging in, and keep your hands on the table during meals.

When in Rome, right?

Remember, politeness and respect are the keys to the Parisian heart. Embrace the cultural quirks, and you’ll blend in like a local Parisian during your time here.

Getting Around Paris

First-time visitors, fear not! Navigating the City of Love might seem as daunting as deciphering a French menu, but it’s easier than pronouncing “croissant” with a perfect French accent.

Here’s your cheat sheet for getting around Paris like a seasoned flâneur.

Let’s start with the pièce de résistance: exploring Paris on foot.

Sure, the public transport is top-notch, but walking lets you truly savor the city’s picturesque streets, quaint cafés, iconic landmarks, and jaw-dropping architecture.

Bonus : Strolling is the perfect way to burn off all those irresistible French pastries you’ll be scarfing down.

Public Transportation

The Parisian public transport system is a veritable smorgasbord of buses, trams, and the ever-popular metro. For zipping around the city like a pro, the metro is your best buddy.

Snap up a single ticket for €2.10 or a pack of 10 (a “carnet”) for €16.90 – perfect for those planning to ride the metro waves often.

Feeling fancy? Grab a Paris Visite pass for unlimited access to the metro, buses, trams, and RER trains within Paris and its ‘burbs. The pass is up for grabs for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days, starting at €13.20.

P.S. Check out my complete guide on How to Navigate the Paris Metro Like A Pro

Metro Stations

The metro is a labyrinth of 16 lines and over 300 stations, each with its own unique name.

To avoid getting lost in the maze, get cozy with the metro map and the station names near your hotel and must-visit spots.

Heads up : some metro stations have multiple entrances and exits, so jot down the exit number or letter as you enter to avoid wandering in circles when you leave.

Metro Lines

Each metro line boasts its own color and number – a visual feast to help you navigate.

For instance, Line 1 is yellow, Line 2 is blue, and Line 6 is green. Once you’re in the station, keep an eye out for signs pointing you to the right line, direction, and train destination.

Pro tip: some metro lines get packed like sardines during rush hour (8:00 am to 10:00 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm). Travel off-peak to avoid being squished.

In short, the metro is your ticket to a smooth Parisian adventure. With a dash of planning and a sprinkling of metro know-how, you’ll be gliding through the city like a true Parisian.

Must-See Paris Attractions (and what to nix)

Eiffel tower.

No Parisian escapade is complete without a rendezvous with the iconic Eiffel Tower! Elevate your experience by climbing the stairs or riding the elevator to the summit for a panoramic city view.

Long lines cramping your style? Book tickets ahead , or swap the climb for a scenic Seine River cruise.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is home to the crème de la crème of art, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa. With over 35,000 masterpieces on display, navigating this art mecca can be daunting!

Short on time? Prioritize highlights like the Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo , and consider an evening visit for thinner crowds.

I recommend hopping on a guided tour of the Louvre Museum so you can be sure to see all the museum’s main highlights in one go.

You can also opt to explore the museum on your own, but be sure to book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long lines!

Arc de Triomphe

A symbol of French patriotism, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see.

Enjoy stunning views of the Champs-Élysées and beyond from the top – just keep in mind that you’ll have to climb up over 400 steps to get to the top!

You can also take a photo of the Arc de Triomphe from the street level below.

Just beware of the chaotic traffic – especially during rush hour!

P.S. Check out my full guide on How to Book Tickets to the Arc de Triomphe & Best Tips for Visiting

Notre Dame Cathedral

This Gothic masterpiece is famous for its stunning stained glass windows, but due to the tragic 2019 fire, it’s currently closed to visitors. Stay tuned for reopening updates!

Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is home to an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet , Van Gogh , and Renoir .

Don’t miss the museum’s famous clock, which offers a stunning view of Paris.

However, the museum can get crowded, so consider visiting during the evening or on a weekday.

Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier is a jaw-dropping masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, and also the proud abode of the Paris Opera.

Opera aficionado or not, a guided tour through this architectural wonderland is an absolute must.

Fair warning, though – the tours can be as pricey as a gourmet French meal, so it’s wise to book in advance .

Sainte Chapelle

Paris’s hidden treasure, Sainte Chapelle , is renowned for its mesmerizing stained glass windows that envelop the entire upper level of the chapel.

Nestled within the Palais de Justice, navigating to this gem can be trickier than finding a decently priced croissant in Paris, so keep your eyes peeled for signs.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

The Père Lachaise Cemetery is the eternal home of legendary figures like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.

The cemetery’s vastness can be as overwhelming as a fully loaded French cheeseboard, so consider joining a guided tour to unravel its history and hear tales of its famous residents.

Short on time? Skip these Paris attractions

While Paris bursts with must-see attractions, some are as overrated as a stale baguette.

If you’re pressed for time, feel free to skip the bustling Latin Quarter.

Sure, it’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming streets, but it can also be crammed with tourists.

Instead, venture off the beaten path and explore lesser-known neighborhoods like the 20th arrondissement or the enchanting Canal Saint-Martin.

In the end, remember to savor Paris at your own pace, like a leisurely sip of fine French wine. The city is brimming with surprises, so embrace new experiences and let yourself be captivated by the magic of Paris.

Best Areas to Stay in Paris for a First Time Visit

Paris is a city that will enchant you from the moment you arrive. For first-time visitors, choosing the right neighborhood for your accommodation is crucial.

Here are some of the finest areas to stay in Paris during your inaugural visit.

Le Marais is a fashionable district adored by locals and tourists alike, renowned for its historic buildings, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. This neighborhood also boasts some of the finest restaurants in Paris.

Choose Le Marais if you want to immerse yourself in the heart of the city and savor the Parisian lifestyle.

Where to stay in Le Marais

• Budget: Hotel du Vieux Marais
• Mid-Range: Hotel Le Compostelle
• Luxury: Pavillon de la Reine

Saint Germain des Pres

Saint Germain des Pres is a sophisticated area known for its upscale fashion boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. This district is also home to some of the city’s most impressive museums.

Stay here if you want to be close to top attractions and experience Parisian culture.

Where to stay in Saint Germain des Pres

• Budget: Hotel de Fleurie
• Mid-Range: Hotel des Deux Continents
• Luxury: Hotel Lutetia

P.S . Hotel Lutetia is home to Bar Joséphine, one of the coolest hotel bars in Paris ! Stop by for a drink even if you aren’t staying in the hotel.

7th Arrondissement

The 7th Arrondissement is a well-regarded neighborhood famous for its elegant architecture and museums. The district also features some of the finest restaurants in Paris.

If you want to be near the Eiffel Tower and other popular attractions, this is the place to be.

Where to stay in the 7th arrondissement

• Budget: Hotel de la Paix Tour Eiffel
• Mid-Range: Hotel de la Bourdonnais
• Luxury: Hotel Plaza Athenee

8th Arrondissement

The 8th Arrondissement is a high-end district known for luxury shopping and exquisite dining. The neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s most esteemed museums.

Stay here if you’re eager to experience Paris’ glamorous side.

Where to stay in the 8th arrondissement

• Budget: Hotel Elysees Bassano
• Mid-Range: Hotel La Canopée
• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel George V

Montmartre is a bohemian neighborhood that is known for its artistic heritage. The neighborhood is also home to the iconic Sacre-Coeur Basilica.

Montmartre is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience the Parisian nightlife and enjoy the artsy side of the city.

Where to stay in Montmartre

• Budget: Hotel Regyn’s Montmartre
• Mid-Range: Terrass” Hotel Montmartre
• Luxury: Maison Souquet

No matter where you choose to stay, Paris is a city that will capture your heart. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine, it is a city that will leave you wanting more.

Food and Drinks to Try on A Paris Trip

French cuisine.

Paris is famous for its cuisine and there’s no better place to indulge in French food than in the capital.

From croissants and baguettes to escargots and coq au vin, there’s something for every taste bud. You can find great food in every corner of the city, from small bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some famous French foods like escargots (snails) or foie gras (duck liver). For something more classic, order steak frites (steak and fries) or a croque-monsieur (toasted ham and cheese sandwich).

And don’t forget to save room for dessert!

Paris is known for its pastries, such as macarons , éclairs , and tarte tatin .

If you want to learn more about French cuisine, consider taking a food tour . There are many options available, such as the Le Marais Gourmet Food Tour , where you can taste your way through one of Paris’ most iconic neighborhoods.

Related read: My Top 7 Picks for the Best Brunch in Paris

France is also famous for its wine, and Paris is no exception. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

French wine is often classified by region, so be sure to try wines from different areas, such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne.

If you’re not sure where to start, head to a wine bar or restaurant and ask for a recommendation!

Many places offer wine flights, where you can try several different wines in one sitting. And if you’re feeling brave, try ordering a carafe of house wine instead of a bottle. It’s a more affordable option and often just as good.

It’s important to note that in France, wine is often served with meals and is considered a cultural staple.

So don’t be surprised if you see people drinking wine at lunch or dinner, even on a weekday!

And if you want to bring a bottle of wine home with you, head to a wine shop like La Cave des Papilles or Le Verre Volé .

As an expat who has lived in Paris for four years, I can tell you that the city’s food and drink scene is one of the best in the world.

Be sure to indulge in everything Paris has to offer, from croissants and coffee in the morning to wine and cheese at night.

Calories don’t count in Paris!

Entertainment and Nightlife

Paris is known for its vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene, and as a seasoned expat who has lived in the city for four years, I know all the best spots to hit up. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends, Paris has something for everyone.

Moulin Rouge

If you’re looking for a classic Parisian experience, a night at the Moulin Rouge is a must-do.

This iconic cabaret show has been entertaining audiences since 1889, and it’s still going strong today. The show features dazzling costumes, talented performers, and plenty of French flair.

Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, and be sure to dress up for the occasion!

Seine River Cruise

For a more relaxed evening, consider taking a cruise along the Seine River .

This is a great way to see some of Paris’s most famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral , while enjoying a glass of wine and some good company.

Many cruises include commentary or even a full dinner and musical entertainment.

I recommend this 3-Course Dinner Seine Sightseeing cruise. My best friend and I took this cruise to celebrate her last day in Paris and we had a great time, and it was a great value for our money.

Opéra Garnier

If you’re a fan of the arts, a visit to the Opéra Garnier is a must.

This stunning opera house is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris, and it’s home to some of the world’s most talented performers. Check the schedule in advance to see what’s on, and be sure to dress up for the occasion.

You’ll feel like royalty as you take in a performance in this beautiful venue.

Paris Museums

For a late afternoon activity, consider visiting one of Paris’s many museums or art galleries.

The Louvre is an obvious choice, but there are plenty of other options to explore.

The Musée d’Orsay is home to a stunning collection of impressionist art, while the Centre Pompidou is a must-visit for fans of modern and contemporary art.

Paris is a shopper’s paradise. From high-end fashion boutiques to flea markets, the city has something for everyone. One of the must-visit places for shopping in Paris is the Galeries Lafayette .

This iconic department store is not just a shopping destination, but also a cultural landmark.

The store is housed in a magnificent building with a stunning glass dome that offers a panoramic view of Paris. Inside, you’ll find everything from designer fashion to gourmet food.

If you’re looking for luxury brands, head to the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

This famous avenue is lined with flagship stores of international brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

But if you’re on a budget, don’t worry. Paris has plenty of affordable shopping options too. The Marais district is a great place to find unique boutiques and vintage shops.

Rue de Rivoli is another popular shopping street that offers a mix of high-street and mid-range brands.

One of the unique shopping experiences in Paris is visiting the flea markets.

Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest flea market in the city and offers a treasure trove of vintage finds. From antique furniture to vintage clothes, you’ll find everything here.

Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is a part of the shopping experience in the Paris flea markets.

When it comes to shopping in Paris, it’s not just about buying things. It’s also about the experience.

Take your time to explore the city’s shopping districts, soak in the atmosphere, and indulge in some people watching.

And don’t forget to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine at one of the many cafes and bars that dot the city’s shopping streets.

Day Trips from Paris

Paris is a city that has so much to offer, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, there are plenty of day trips from Paris that are just a short train ride away.

Whether you want to take a day trip from Paris to another country or visit France’s champagne region for a day , you’ve got plenty of options.

Here are a few other options for day trips from Paris:

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris. This stunning palace was once the home of Louis XIV and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can easily spend a whole day exploring the palace and its beautiful gardens. One of the highlights is the Hall of Mirrors, which is absolutely breathtaking.

To get to Versailles, you can take the RER train from Paris, which takes about 45 minutes.

P.S. Check out my complete guide on How to Visit Versailles on A Day Trip for best tips, tours, and how to get there!

Disneyland Paris

If you’re traveling with kids (or just love Disney), then a day trip to Disneyland Paris is a must!

This magical theme park is located just outside of Paris and is easily accessible by train. You can meet your favorite Disney characters, go on thrilling rides, and watch amazing shows.

It’s a great way to escape reality for a day and feel like a kid again.

Related read: How to see London in a day (Paris to London Day Trip Itinerary)

If you’re an art lover, then a day trip to the town of Auvers-sur-Oise is a must. This is where Vincent van Gogh spent the last few months of his life and created some of his most famous works of art.

You can visit the room where he died, see the church that he painted, and walk in his footsteps.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most famous artists.

Related read: Visiting Monet’s Garden in Giverny on a day trip from Paris

These are just a few of the many day trips from Paris that you can take. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to have some fun, there’s something for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Best time to visit.

Wondering when to pencil in your Parisian adventure? It all depends on your personal flavor.

Paris is a beautiful city all year round, but the best time to visit is from April to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season.

Spring and fall are popular choices for mild weather and fewer tourists, but if soaking up the sun and outdoor festivities is more your jam, summer is your go-to.

Just be ready for larger crowds and heftier price tags in summer!

If you want to experience the festive atmosphere of Paris, visiting during the Christmas season is a good idea.

Winter may be a bit nippy, but it’s also the least crowded, and the city transforms into a fairytale winter wonderland during the holidays.

Credit Card

Make sure to bring a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. This will save you money when you’re shopping or dining out in Paris.

It’s also a good idea to notify your bank that you’re traveling to Paris so they don’t flag your card for fraud.

If you’re planning a quick visit to Paris, getting a Paris Pass is a good idea. It will give you access to many of the city’s top attractions and museums, as well as free travel on public transportation.

However, if you’re staying for a longer period of time, it may be more cost-effective to buy individual tickets or a museum pass.

Safety Tips for Visiting Paris

Paris is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the metro.

If you’re traveling alone at night, it’s a good idea to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Bolt or Uber.

Book tickets in advance and plan wisely

In my personal experience, I’ve found that it’s always a good idea to buy skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. This will save you time and allow you to see more during your visit.

Also, if you’re short on time, I recommend focusing on the top attractions during your first day in Paris.

This will give you a good sense of the city and allow you to prioritize what you want to see during the rest of your trip.

Final thoughts

Congratulations, you have just experienced one of the best places in the world!

You have explored the famous landmarks, the narrow streets, and the underground tunnels. You have seen the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Left Bank and the Right Bank. You have visited the Orsay Museum and other art museums.

Overall, visiting Paris for the first time can be overwhelming, but with these top tips, you’ll be able to navigate the city like a pro. Paris is truly the City of Lights and it is easy to see why it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world!

Thanks for reading!

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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15 Best Cheap Restaurants in Paris for Good Eats on A Budget | Where Tiana Travels

Friday 5th of May 2023

[…] short walk from the iconic Notre Dame, this café is a must-visit for first-timers visiting Paris and a great way to satisfy your taste buds (without emptying your wallet). And after, stroll around […]

When is the Best Time to Visit Paris? Weather & Price Guide (2023) | Where Tiana Travels

Thursday 27th of April 2023

[…] you’ve decided what you want to see and do in Paris for the first time and decided which airline to choose to fly to Paris, it’s time to make the most important […]

Which Language Do You Want to Learn?

• Inside Babbel
• Babbel Bytes

ARTICLES ABOUT

How to start speaking french before your vacation.

Illustration by Aura Lewis , courtesy of the Bright Agency.

You’ve bought your plane tickets, done your hours of research, and planned your itinerary. You’re just about ready to go, but there’s one thing missing: You don’t speak French. Whether you’re heading off to Paris for some art and culture, Brittany for a breath of fresh Atlantic air, or Bordeaux for the wine tour you’ve always dreamed of, you’ll enjoy it even more if you have a bit of the language under your belt. But where should you begin? Luckily for you, here at Babbel, we have tons of courses to teach you everything you’ll need for your trip.

Learning some French for your vacation will make it easier for you to get around, to order exactly what you want to eat or drink in a restaurant or café, and to really experience the culture by making connections with the local people. Here’s a little timeline we put together to get you speaking confidently in just two weeks!

Days 1-3: Get Started With The Basics!

There are some pretty standard things everyone should know how to say in the local language when they travel to a foreign country. Here are just a few:

• How are you?
• Good morning / afternoon / evening
• I don’t understand
• How much is _______?

To master these things in French, we suggest you start with our French beginner’s courses. They teach topics that range from introducing yourself and asking simple questions, all the way to booking a hotel and finding your way around a busy Parisian train station! You’ll also find a number of lessons focused on pronunciation, so you won’t have to worry about being misunderstood when you speak.

Depending on what you plan to do during your stay, some courses might be more valuable to you than others. Really think about what you plan to do on your trip, and try to come up with a list of situations you can imagine yourself in.  We recommend taking a look at the courses on our web version so that you can see exactly what each lesson contains. This way you can pick and choose which lessons will be the best for you.

Here’s an additional lesson we think is a must-do:

Finish that one, and you’ll have the vocabulary and phrases you need to be the most polite tourist ever!

Days 4-6: Practice Ordering A Meal!

Ratatouille, bœuf bourguignon, crêpes, quiche … the list goes on! France is a veritable wonderland of food and flavor, and you’ll most likely be spending a fair amount of time in restaurants and cafés. That being said, you should plan to brush up on some useful words and phrases for ordering a meal. As menus are often only in French, it’s a good idea to learn as much food vocabulary as you can! After all, you want to make sure you know exactly what you’re ordering.

For example, let’s say you’re craving a nice Surf and Turf with scallops and a juicy steak, so you order the escalope  and  filet mignon. You will be understandably disappointed when you end up with a veal cutlet and a pork tenderloin. But don’t worry, we can help you avoid embarrassing situations like this. Under the “Countries and Traditions” category, you’ll find our “French Cuisine” section, which gives you a rundown of the culinary specialties from the different regions of France. After doing these courses, you won’t be surprised at what you find on your plate when you order  les cuisses de grenouille!

We also have a couple of other courses about food, drink, and ordering. Here are two you should try before you jet off:

These two lessons will introduce the phrases you’ll need in order to understand the menu, order food, and ask for the bill. The satisfaction of getting through an entire meal in a restaurant en français  will make the time you spend practicing absolutely worth it!

Bon appétit!

Days 7-10: Learn To Ask For Directions And Use Public Transportation

Getting lost in a place where you speak the language is bad enough. Now imagine being lost somewhere where you can’t communicate with anyone! Knowing how to ask for help will definitely lower your stress levels if you get turned around.

Now, you should have made it through some of the beginner’s courses, but just in case you missed some of them, here’s a little tip. In Beginner’s Course 2, you’ll find a unit called “Pardon, où est … ?” . These lessons will teach you all you need to know to bravely go where no tourist has gone before! You’ll not only be able to ask for and understand directions but also learn some vocabulary for common locations in a city. Make a list of the places you’d like to visit so you can learn the words for these things as well.

If you still feel like you want a little more practice, then check out these lessons too:

These will help you perfect the skills you learned from the beginner’s course, and also give you more specific information about using public transportation, which can be a confusing affair. It’s also a good idea to learn a bit about French signs and street names. After completing these lessons, you’ll truly be a well-prepared  voyageur!

Days 11-14: Put It All Together (And Have Some Fun!)

With just a few days left before you leave, you’ll want to review everything you’ve learned so far so that it’s fresh in your mind and ready to be used! This is where the Babbel Review Manager will come in handy. All of the core vocabulary and phrases you’ve picked up over the last two weeks have been stored there so you can easily go back over them and practice.

If you’re feeling confident with the basics, then now it’s time to have a little fun! We have a huge selection of courses with interesting cultural and linguistic content that you can find under the categories “Countries and Traditions” and “Specials.” With these lessons, you can get your French slang up to snuff ( cimer! ), find some ideas for sightseeing, learn a bit about true and false friends, and also pick up a few idioms to really impress the locals. We promise it won’t all be  pour des prunes!

After these two weeks, you should be more than ready to communicate effectively during your vacation. Our final tip for you is, of course, to have fun!

Bon Voyage!

Why Visit Paris?

• See & Do
• Why Visit Paris

Why Visit Paris? 10 Irresistible Reasons

• Why visit Paris?

From iconic bucket list attractions like the Eiffel Tower to picture-perfect pleasures like a picnic on the bank of the Seine River, Paris offers something for everyone. 

Your first visit may feel magical, but even if you return dozens of times, you will never run out of new things to see and do. 

Whether you fall in love with the jewel-like colors of medieval stained glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle, the addictive combination of steak-frites with a glass of red wine in a cozy bistro, or the experience of stepping back in time as you wander through narrow medieval streets of the Marais neighborhood, you’ll create memories of your own special Paris.

As Audrey Hepburn famously said, "Paris is always a good idea."  

So where to begin? 

Start with our list of 10 irresistible reasons why you will love Paris - and then start planning your next trip!

Top photo: Flowers blooming in Tuileries Garden by the Louvre in May, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Paris Soon

1.  thrilling iconic attractions (plus some you've never imagined).

Nothing beats the thrill of seeing the Eiffel Tower and other iconic Paris attractions for the first time.

But there are plenty of reasons to visit Paris beyond just the famous sites.

From Medieval masterpieces such as Sainte-Chapelle to historic shopping arcades to edgy street art to a Roman arena , Paris is packed with fascinating places to explore.  

10 Top Paris attractions you'll want to see

Easy Day Trips from Paris to Versailles, Giverny, D-Day Normandy Beaches, Disneyland Paris, & more!

Fun Ways to See Top Paris Attractions

2.  fun things to do in paris.

Explore the medieval streets of the Marais, lounge on a Paris "beach," tour the famous Les Puces flea market, or enjoy a concert in a magnificent Paris church or other exciting venue.

Take a cooking class, immerse yourself in digital art shows at Atelier des Lumieres, marvel at the beauty of cherry trees in bloom throughout the city during spring.

Find the coolest spots to see and photograph the Paris skyline - including a few you might not discover on your own.

Cruise down the Seine River, sail a boat in Luxembourg Gardens, relax under the stars at an outdoor summer concert.

You'll never run out of fun things to do in Paris - or reasons why you should go for a visit.  

Need More Inspiration?

Check out these iconic and lesser-known Paris scenes:

3.  Paris Hotels & Apartments for Every Budget

Paris hotels and apartments are more affordable than you might expect.  Spend a fortune or relatively little for a few nights of accommodations - the choice is yours!

Hotels & apartments in every price range can be found in every central Paris neighborhood near top attractions.   Check out our guide to Paris hotels

Prefer an apartment?  You can choose from budget to luxe.  

Find the best Paris neighborhoods for your stay, and luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels & apartments for each area

Find deals, discounts, and bargains on Paris hotels & apartments

And check out the newest Paris hotels

Check out the newest Paris hotels

4.  Shopping ... Paris is a Shopper's Paradise

From the dazzling "Golden Triangle" of haute couture to Grands Magasins (big department stores) to trendy boutiques, shopaholics find plenty of places to stock up on Paris fashion.

Don't miss the latest fashions in the Marais, the designer outlet village, open air markets, or the flea markets!  And be sure to indulge yourself at the famous twice-a-year Paris sales.

Paris is a shopper's paradise.  

Find out more about where to shop in Paris

5.  Paris Museums & Cool Street Art

The Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and Centre Pompidou may be the most famous Paris museums - but almost 150 other museums and monuments offer exhibits on every topic you can imagine.  

Be sure to also look at art on the streets - everything from classical sculpture to the latest creations by sometimes-edgy street artists.   Start with a guided bike tour of Paris's urban art museum

And don't forget - check out the many special museum exhibitions in Paris each month.

6.  Delicious Food & Wine (Some Say this Is the Best Reason to Travel to Paris)

From haute cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants to the trendiest bistros serving local fare based on what's fresh, Paris will please your palate.

Stop by a bakery for fresh croissants and pain au chocolat, sample macaroons from Hermé or Ladurée, sip tea at Mariage Frères' tea room or indulge in a decadently rich hot chocolate at Angelina.  Explore your favorite cuisine and discover new favorites on a food tour.

Try different kinds of French cheese and find your favorites.  Order a fromage and charcuterie platter, or stop by a Latin Quarter bistro for the famous melted cheese dish, raclette.

Dig into steak-frites at a brasserie.  Savor the couscous in a North African cafe.  Become addicted to Nutella crepes. 

And remember - wine and French food are meant for each other.  

Experience wine & cheese on a gourmet tour of Paris

7.  Beautiful Parks & Gardens Where You Can Relax and Play

Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries Garden are famous for their statues and beautiful flowers.  Kids love to sail their toy boats across pools, go for pony rides, and even watch a puppet show.

Visit Jardin des Plantes with its menagerie and maze, a hidden Roman arena in the Latin Quarter, the elevated Promenade Plantées, with views high above the city, and the almost-hidden Palais Royal Garden .   And that's just the beginning of the gorgeous parks you can explore in Paris!

8.  Day Trips from Paris to Famous Places

Versailles, Monet's garden at Giverny, Disneyland Paris, and several chateaus are less than an hour from Paris.

Go a little farther and you can visit the medieval city of Bruges, famous World War II battlegrounds, Mont Saint-Michel, and even London - and be back in Paris by evening.

Why visit Paris?  Aside from all the pleasures of being there, it's the perfect base for exploring so many other places.  

Find out about more day trips from Paris

9.  Fun Places in Paris for Kids and Teens (& their Parents)

Planning a trip to Paris with kids or teens?

Fortunately, Paris has LOTS of attractions and activities that are fun for the entire family - including teens.

And great news - most are inexpensive or even free for kids under 18. 

And of course, kids love Disneyland Paris, just a short train ride from the city.

Find out more about visiting Paris Disneyland

10.  "Hidden" Paris - There's Always More to Explore!

After you've seen the most famous Paris attractions, what's left?

Plenty - it's time to explore lesser known market streets, indie designer boutiques, cool bistros and brasseries.   Relax on a scenic cruise up Canal Saint-Martin, visit excellent (and uncrowded!) smaller museums, find the parks where Parisians hang out.   All of these non-touristy places are even more reasons to go to Paris. 

Pin Now, Read Again Later

More Articles about Visiting Paris

• Your First Day in Paris - What to do & see while jet-lagged
• Top 10 Paris Attractions - Don't miss these iconic Parisian landmarks and places
• Paris Hotel Guide - Where to Stay in Each Part of the City
• Skip the Line Tickets - Where to get them
• Paris Concerts - Schedule and tickets - from classical to rock
• Easy Day Trips from Paris - Versailles, Giverny, Mont Saint Michel, D-Day Normandy Beaches, Disneyland Paris, Champagne tastings, Loire Valley castles, London, Bruges, & more!
• Where to Stay on Your First Trip to Paris  - Best neighborhoods

Top Attractions & Tours

• Eiffel Tower - Enjoy sweeping views of Paris
• Louvre Tour - Soak up art & see the Mona Lisa
• Palace of Versailles - Best way to see the famous Chateau
• Paris Museum Pass - Choose 2, 4, or 6 days
• Paris Disneyland - Get express tickets & transport from Paris

Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

March in Paris

• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

April in Paris

• Paris Marathon, Easter concerts, spring flowers

May in Paris

• Mother's Day, jazz festival, concerts

June in Paris

• Summer sales, Pride week, music fests, air show

July in Paris

• Bastille Day, Tour de France, beaches

August in Paris

• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

September in Paris

• European Heritage Days, Fashion Week

October in Paris

• Wine festival, Halloween, Motor Show

November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

• Christmas, New Year's Eve

Hanukkuh in Paris

• Menorah lightings 

Christmas in Paris

• Holiday celebrations & decorations

Christmas Markets

• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

Newest Articles & Latest Updates

• Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Paris
• How to Get from Paris to Giverny
• Where to Find Paris's Best Covered Passages
• Best Paris Food Tours
• Best Hotels with Free Shuttles to Disneyland Paris
• Happening Now in Paris - Find Our Latest Articles  

Book Your Paris Hotel

Eiffel Tower Hotels

• See the Eiffel Tower from your balcony

Arc de Triomphe Hotels

• Great hotels with bargain rates

New Hotels in Paris

• Experience the latest & greatest

Paris Hotels near the Louvre

• Where to stay near the famous palace museum

Central Paris Hotels

• Wonderful hotels close to top Paris attractions

Deals & Discounts

• How to save on your Paris hotel

Plan Your Paris Trip

• Best Paris guide books
• Find cheap flights to Paris
• Choose your Paris hotel  
• 7 Reasons why you need travel insurance
• Electric adapters and converters  
• Best ways to get Euros
• Check out 10 top Paris attractions
• How to skip the ticket lines
• Paris Museum Pass:  Should you get one?
• Which neighborhoods are best to stay in?
• What to do & see in each Paris district
• How to spend your first day in Paris

First Time Visiting Paris: 13 Best Things To See + Food, Tours & Neighbourhoods

Paris is a polarising city. You either love it or hate it.

But I’ve discovered a squishy middle spot.

It’s a city you must experience at least once in your lifetime. But to fully appreciate Paris and get the most out of it, you need to adjust your expectations.

Significantly.

The vibe can seem a bit colder and more distant than Rome , and less sensible than London . If I had to use one word to describe Paris, it would be “tough”. Don’t romanticise the city - the culture is rough around the edges, shaped by centuries of tension, conflict, and turmoil – domestic and international.

Paris is one of the world’s most densely populated capital cities – and the squishiest capital in Europe. Space is a premium. 

Forget about the unrealistic Emily In Paris , and set your expectations low. Then everything will be a bonus. If you don’t, be warned... Paris Syndrome is real.

…there is still an endearing side to Paris.

So when you know what to expect, and where to look for special, authentic experiences, your first time visiting Paris can be really rewarding.

Read on to discover more.

Essential reading: If your trip to Paris will be part of a larger trip around Europe, check out my must-read guide on how to plan a trip to Europe .

How To Save Money in Paris

Travel costs in post-pandemic France have reached dizzying highs. Demand from consumers is higher than ever, and suppliers can’t keep up. Add to that inflation and labour shortage, and you can see why you need to be extra vigilant to stretch your travel dollars further.

Use Public Transport

The underground metro network is the best way to cover longer distances in Paris. Then the bus network fills in the gaps for the remainder. Many times the metro is faster than taxis due to traffic congestion, and a lot cheaper too. Single tickets are just €1.90, or pre-pay a 10-pack , and unlimited day passes are available for 1-5 days.

Don’t Use Cash

If your home bank charges a fee for withdrawing cash in a foreign country, never fret. You can frolic around Paris with very little hard cash. Card payments are accepted in most places – from public transport to supermarkets to food trucks. The only exception is public toilets which require coins (Euros). If your home bank charges high foreign transaction fees, consider the Wise debit card .

Free Self-Guided Tours

If you’ve got time to stroll and prefer to do things on your own, download the MP3s and PDFs for Rick Steve’s free audio guide tours . He covers 6 separate walks: Historic Paris, Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, Père Lachaise Cemetery, Rue Cler, and Versailles Palace.  

Supermarkets are Your Friend

Eating out can be pricey in Paris – with street food the exception. Like Rome, full-size breakfast options are slim, so make your own from small supermarkets. Local chains to look out for are Monoprix, Franprix, and Carrefour. Vegan-friendly and gluten-free options are harder to find, but not impossible.

Free Museums

A collection of Paris’ museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. These include: Musée d'Orsay, Rodin Museum, Picasso Museum, Museum of the Orangery, and more . Louvre Museum is on the list, but only after 6pm. If you’re willing to cram multiple stops back-to-back, you can save some serious dosh.  

Turbopass Paris City Pass

One option for saving money on museums, attractions, and transport in Paris is the Paris City Pass . I’ve used this in cities like London and Rome, which offered better value. Unfortunately, the Paris version is a little more clunky. It’s not digital, and has to be picked up from a central location. Basically, it’s the Paris Museum Pass bundled with a public transport card. It’s simply cheaper to buy those products separately. Keep in mind that the Museum Pass is annoyingly only available for 2, 4, or 6 days. You really need at least 4 days for enough time to use most of the primary benefits.

Getting Around Paris

Walking . You’re going to do a lot of it. Paris is a relatively pedestrian-friendly city, but major attractions are spread over a significant distance (from Arc de Triomphe to the central bus station is 8.6kms). I racked up over 15,000 steps daily on my Galaxy Watch , so pack comfortable walking shoes and thick socks ( these are my recommended socks ).

Public transport is convenient and relatively fast, although traffic jams can hit during peak times. Bus drivers may opt to deviate from the scheduled route to avoid traffic, so stay alert about where you are at all times. Sometimes you’ll have to look hard for the metro entrance – signage isn’t that great or consistent. Some cutesy, whimsical signs are over 100 years old and weren’t designed with readability in mind.

Tip: Download and print a copy of the PDF metro map as a backup in case your phone goes flat.

Taxis & Rideshare are very expensive, and not necessarily any faster than the metro, especially over longer distances. The most popular e-hailing apps are: Uber , Bolt , G7 , and Free Now . 

There’s no shortage of e-scooter options in Paris. But you’d have to be pretty crazy to navigate on major roads between zig-zagging car drivers. But if you prefer white-knuckled thrill rides, the most popular options are: Lime , Bird , Bolt , Tier , Voi , and Dott .

UPDATE August 2023: Paris has now banned all e-scooter rentals. So the only way to zip along the streets is with your own e-scooter.

Driving. OMG, Paris is a nightmare for parking and traffic. I can’t say Parisians don’t know how to drive – they do, but just have very little patience or courtesy. You need nerves of steel if you dare to try. Parking costs are exorbitant, and if you try to park illegally, even for a few minutes, there’s a very good chance of being fined (which is a whole other story of bureaucracy – don’t ask). I picked up a rental car from Orly Airport for a road trip around the countryside which was bearable. However, when returning the car, the roads around Orly Airport and the signage, or lack thereof, were beyond infuriating.

Getting to Orly Airport (ORY) is a royal pain in the ass. To reach the city centre, it either takes 2 standard buses or 2 trains and a bus – around 1 hour. And the taxi option is very expensive at 45 minutes, with high chances of being stuck in traffic. For a major international city, this is quite disappointing. The most cost-effective way is the OrlyBus which connects the airport to not-so-central Place Denfert-Rochereau (€8.30pp, every 8-15 minutes, 30-minute travel time). Tickets are available from automated vending machines.

On my last trip to Paris, I arrived by bus , which luckily turned out to be much smarter. So if Paris is part of a longer trip around Europe, I suggest using a bus or train to arrive and depart, if possible. 

Essential Tours in Paris for a First-Time Visitor 

Paris in a day tour.

This is THE tour that will hit the most highlights in one day. The amazingly knowledgeable and friendly guide, Manny, kicked off the tour with Sacré Coeur Basilica and Montmartre followed by a snack stop. We meandered through the Latin Quarter and to the front of Notre Dame. With skip-the-queue tickets at the Louvre Museum, Manny whisked through dozens of must-see exhibits, including Venus di Milo, and the Mona Lisa. There was enough detail to feel the cultural richness but not too much to get overloaded. And the day finished off with skip-the-queue entrance to the Eiffel Tower with time to wander around at our leisure. The package includes a Seine Cruise ticket which can be used at any time afterward. This tour is hands-down the best way to get a comprehensive overview of Paris from a local. Manny was entertaining and relatable and filled in the gaps, so every guest gained a better understanding of what makes Paris tick.

Ultimate Paris Food Tour

Food is central to every culture. And one of the best ways to get knee-deep in Parisian food culture is on this expertly guided tour from Devour (sister company of Walks). Paris is a melting pot of cultures from all corners of the globe, and our guide Juan led us through the nooks and crannies of Paris to uncover places I would have never found by myself. He was kind enough to customise the itinerary to suit my dietary requirements (vegan). Every location has a story behind it, and Juan brings these to life. Typically the tour includes 11 tastings, including bread, pastry, chocolate, crepe, macaron, cheese, meat, wine, and more.

Essential Things To Do in Paris for a First-Time Visitor 

Eiffel tower.

This world-renowned structure needs no introduction. Don’t buy your tickets on the spot, unless you enjoy queues of 2-3 hours. Buy them online before your trip, as they can sell out up to 2 months in advance. Otherwise, express entry was included with the Paris in a Day tour. One of the best vantage points for photos of the tower is the nearby Fontaine du Jardin du Trocadéro .

Fun fact: The satellite view on Google Maps gives a unique perspective on this phallic-shaped fountain.

Champ de Mars

This freely-accessible 780-metre-long rectangular landscaped green space has been drawing Parisians and tourists alike since 1780. Bring a drink and snacks, and watch the sun slip over the horizon behind the Eiffel Tower. After nightfall, the iconic tower lights up in a brilliant display for 5 minutes, every hour, on the hour, until 1am. Regardless of cliches, I found this was one of the most magical experiences I’ve had anywhere in the world.

Louvre Museum

This is the world’s most visited museum for a good reason. This former royal palace was transformed after the French Revolution in the 18 th century, and now holds over 615,000 pieces in its art collection, with 35,000 on display. Highlights are easily recognisable: Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, Liberty Leading the People, and The Coronation of Napoleon. You could spend all day here and not see everything, so plan your visit ahead of time. Buy your timed entry tickets online to skip the queues, or choose a guided tour to gain the most insight into this vast artwork collection. Otherwise, express entry was included with the Paris in a Day tour.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

This medieval Catholic cathedral stretches 69 metres into the sky – pretty tall, considering it was completed in 1260 AD. Unfortunately, this icon of French Gothic architecture was devastated by a raging fire In April 2019 while renovations were being undertaken. Now you can only see the Notre-Dame from the outside, and the scheduled re-opening is April 2024 (in time for the Paris Olympic Games).

Arc de Triomphe

This famous monument honours soldiers who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The Arc de Triomphe is located at the juncture of 12 avenues, forming a hub with spokes. I call this one of the craziest roundabouts in the world. But for some daft reason, witless tourists try to cross it anyway. There’s a safer underpass, so please use that. The best free vantage point is this exact spot just before sunset, but be patient, as other tourists will have the same idea. Once inside the arch, it’s 284 steps to the top, but the city views sprawling out from Champs-Elysees are worth it. Allow 1 hour total visit time, and buy tickets online to skip the queue.

Tip: It can be tricky to identify buildings from the rooftop viewpoint, so download the free official app to fully appreciate the vista.

Musée d'Orsay

Welcome to the home of the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art, with around 6,000 pieces by influential figures such as Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Degas, and more. The actual museum is an artwork too – formerly a train station that has been beautifully renovated and restored. Buy skip-the-line tickets online.

Sacré-Coeur Basilica & Montmartre

Built on the highest hill in Paris, this basilica was only completed in 1914, which is relatively new by Parisian standards. The site is traditionally associated with the martyrdom of Saint Denis – the patron saint of Paris. Its construction was inspired by France’s perceived decline in morals. However, the design and specific location draw on fascinating political undertones I discovered on the Paris in a Day Tour . Entry is free however, if you wish to climb the dome, a paid ticket onsite is required. It’s best to get before 7am as queues can grow quickly.

The surrounding area, Montmartre, has been a bohemian hotbed for artists and anarchists for centuries. Today it’s the cobblestone-clad artistic district with a vibrant nightlife. While it’s free to wander on your own, a guided tour will help you discover the true essence of this district.

Sainte-Chapelle

This 13th-century chapel was built by French royalty in just 7 years to house one of the most sacred relics – Christ’s crown of thorns. However, it wasn’t just for the sake of pretty stained glass windows, but to reinforce religious and political influence in Europe. In saying that, these are probably the prettiest stained glass windows you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Buy skip-the-line tickets online.

Tip: If you have pre-booked tickets, then when you arrive, walk past the queue winding out the front door, and show your ticket to the front desk. I made the mistake of waiting in the queue – whoops!

Seine River Cruise

This is one of those cliché things that tourists do in Paris. I must admit, I didn’t find it very riveting, and the onboard audio commentary was basic. It’s more like a cattle cart on water. Still, it made for a well-deserved 1-hour break from walking all over Paris. A ticket is included with the Paris in a Day Tour, otherwise you should book online for the lowest price.

Pont Alexandre III

This is the most ornate bridge across the Seine River. Lined with art nouveau cherubs and nymphs, it is bookended by 19 th -century golden-clad winged statues. You can’t take a bad photo of it.

Palais Garnier

Opened in 1875, this is the largest opera house in Europe, and is considered the most beautiful in the world. It wows from the outside and inside. The design blends elements of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, with the pièce de résistance a spectacular 7-tonne chandelier set against an ornate painted ceiling. It’s free to enjoy from the outside, or book tickets online to explore the interior.

FlyView Paris

If you want to try something a bit different and cheesy, take a virtual reality flight around Paris and see the sights from a different perspective. I’m a little prone to motion sickness, and ended the ride looking paler than usual. This is included with the Turbopass Paris City Pass or buy tickets online .

Chill At Sunset Along The Seine

There’s a strong social culture in Paris, and it’s common to find Parisians of all ages strewn along the banks of the Seine River in the early evening with friends. Catch the last hour of daylight at this specific spot for a combination of gorgeous views and plenty of sitting space. Bring a drink or snacks, and a friend, and you’ll experience the real Paris. And it’s totally free.

Essential Food to Try in Paris

Ignore what the media has shown you; there are usually no frog legs on the menu. Snails (escargot) in garlic butter are a delicacy but not especially filling. Instead, look for the time-tested classics below. With over 40,000 restaurants in Paris, there’s something for everyone – from sidewalk cafes to Michelin-star fine dining to rooftop brasseries and even picnics in the park.

Tip: When you’re short on time in Paris, I recommend a guided food tour with a local foodie.

I’ll be honest. I didn’t expect bread to taste so good. But now I know what the fuss is about. It’s probably the easiest food to find in Paris, just follow your nose. And bread goes with anything and everything. The French take their bread seriously, and there are strict laws for bakeries to ensure a high standard everywhere.

Food tip: There’s a right way and a wrong way to eat a baguette. Don’t take a bite out of the whole loaf, but rather break off a piece with your hand or cut it (if a knife is handy). Manners first!

France tip: A specialist bread bakery is called a ‘boulangerie’. A pastry shop is called a ‘pâtisserie’, and according to French law, it must employ a maître pâtissier (master pastry chef). These shops are always clearly signed.

If it’s cold outside, this is guaranteed to warm you up quickly. Hearty, rich flavours evolve from slowly stewed real beef stock. And, of course, there’s the melted cheese on top. Pair it with French bread and you’ve got a winner.

There’s a world of difference between cheap chocolate and edible hand-crafted art pieces. Award-winning chocolatier, Jean-Paul Hevin, has been operating a small chain of stores in Paris since 1988 and earned the tricolour collar of the Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (Best Craftsmen in France) in the patisserie-confectionery branch. You have to try his flavoured chocolates and macarons while you’re in Paris.

These are easy to find all over Paris, from small and dainty to beasts as big as your hand (and I’ve got big hands!).

Crepes and Galettes

Originating in Brittany, these are now found all over Paris. Crepes are made from wheat flour and are usually sweet, whereas galettes are savoury and use buckwheat flour. These thin pancakes are stuffed with an assortment of goodies. Popular sweet versions add Nutella, ice cream, caramel, berries, or banana, and savoury options include egg, ham, cheese, and vegetables. 

Cheese and Cured Meats

France is known for its cheese, and for a good reason. Its quality is unmatched all over the world. Try high-quality artisanal goat and cow cheese, salami with pepper, dry sausage, and Prince ham at a quaint store called At the town of Rodez . 

Street food at Marché des Enfants Rouges

This is not a specific dish per se, but you can find a melting pot of cuisines from around the world at this hole-in-the-wall market dating back to 1615. Prices are very reasonable by Paris standards. I tried a mouth-watering Moroccan-style vegan pancake.

Extra Tips for First-Time Visitors to Paris

Avoid the dreaded Paris Syndrome , with these essential insights to set your expectations.

Expect Tiny Accommodation

Space in Paris is at a premium. So any hotel or apartment will likely be much smaller than you’re used to… unless you’re from Hong Kong. Most inner-city buildings were constructed a long time ago and soundproofing wasn’t a thing, so with the cramped space also comes noise from neighbours. Bring earplugs just in case.

Choose Your District Wisely

It might be tempting to scrimp and choose an apartment rental on the outskirts of town, but you’ll end up spending an hour or more travelling to the centre of the city each day. That’s not the best way to spend the little vacation time you have. Each district has a very distinctive personality (see the end of the article). Research your prospects before booking.

Many Parisians speak at least a little English, but a significant do not – or prefer not to. It pays to learn a few basic phrases in French. Make sure you download offline translations in the Google Translate app. The “ audio transcribe ” tool may save the day – you never know.

Stay Connected

Pick up a SIM (or eSIM) card so you’re connected to the Internet – don’t rely on jumping between insecure public WiFi hotspots. Read my article for more info on eSIMs in Europe . I used a SIM from Holafly , with unlimited data, to stay connected all over Europe. It was my lifeline in Paris. 

Navigate Like A Pro

I highly recommend the mobile app Citymapper ( iOS , Android ) rather than Google Maps for navigating the public transport network. The live arrival times help to avoid wasting time standing at a bus or metro stop, when you could be cruising the Sein or strolling through another museum.

DIY Breakfast

Big breakfasts are not a common occurrence in Parisian culture. The city is go-go-go. If you’re staying at a self-catered apartment, pick up a couple ingredients from a local supermarket, such as a fresh baguette and jam.

Double Check Operating Hours

The French take their rest time seriously, and there are strict laws about working too many hours. Some businesses, such as pharmacies, can close earlier than other European cities, and on weekends you’ll find even fewer businesses open. If you come in mid-summer, many Parisians take up to 1 month’s vacation and just close their shops. I was so sad to discover that a vegan patisserie I was looking so forward to was closed when I arrived.

Public toilets can be hard to come by in Paris. And if you do locate one, it often requires payment in the form of coins (Euros), so keep a few handy. A sneaky hack is to look for buildings with a French flag adorning the front, as it’s likely to be a public building with greater chances to find a (free) public restroom. 

The safety situation in Paris varies from district to district. Some areas are relatively safe, while others are sketchy. Keep an eye on your valuables in crowded areas like train stations, buses, and tourist attractions. If anyone offers you something for free on the street, just ignore them. Don’t be afraid to be rude. And only carry enough cash that you need for that day. The French love to protest, but if you see any, just steer clear – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

IRL Tourist Help is Available

On the ground floor of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann (shopping mall), you will find “Point Info Tourisme”, staffed by friendly tourism representatives that speak multiple languages. 

It can be a little hard to find. Look for the mall entrance closest to Café de l'Opéra , and stay to the right.

Paris Does Not Equal “France”

There is Paris. And then there’s the rest of France. This dynamic is pretty common in many major cities around the world. Do not paint the whole country of France with the same brush as one specific busy metropolis. The countryside around France is absolutely beautiful, with very peaceful regions and abounding natural and cultural beauty. If you don’t like Paris for some reason, please don’t write off France altogether. There’s a lot to love about France.

Do Your Research

French history goes back thousands of years, and to really grasp modern Paris, it pays to understand its backstory. Check out these series, movies, and documentaries:

Netflix: Versailles , The King .

YouTube: a YouTube video playlist of 6 vids .

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris is split into 20 districts called “arrondissements”, which are numbered in a spiral starting from the centre. On your first visit to Paris, you should allow at least 4 days to see all the major attractions, although 5-6 days might be a more comfortable pace. 

Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) – one of the most central districts, popular with tourists and students. Bars and cafes abound.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement) – oozing with luxury boutiques and 5-star hotels, this is one of the most expensive districts.

Le Premier (1st Arrondissement) - the centre of the action, and close to many tourist popular tourist attractions. It’s unsurprisingly pricy.

Montmartre (18th Arrondissement) - steep hills with cobblestone streets, and expansive picturesque vistas. Slightly further from the action, but quieter at night.

Montparnasse (14th Arrondissement) – most family-friendly area.

Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement) – trendy and hip, with lots of shopping options along with bars and clubs. It’s known for being the gay district.

Pigalle (9th & 18th Arrondissement) – home to the Moulin Rouge and the red light district, caters to adult entertainment.

That’s A Wrap!

You made it to the end of this jumbo-length article! If you can do that, then you can tackle Paris like a pro. 

Now you’ve got everything you need to start preparing for your first time visiting Paris. Remember to temper your expectations and forget the romanticised Hollywood vision that really doesn’t exist. Just brace yourself, take a deep breath, and plunge into the chaos head-first. 

That’s the secret to experiencing Paris’ true magic.

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What to do when you visit Paris?

Last Updated:  17 April 2024

Paris, the City of Light, has captivated travellers for centuries with its irresistible charm, iconic landmarks, and unparalleled cultural treasures. From the moment you set foot in France to visit Paris, you’ll be swept away by its beauty, history, and romance. With so many world-renowned museums, stunning architectural wonders, and picturesque neighbourhoods to explore, you might find yourself wondering, what is there to do in Paris with Hellotickets.fr ? Well, we’ve curated a selection of the city’s top attractions and experiences.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-see sights and activities that will make your first visit to Paris truly unforgettable, ensuring you make the most of your time in this captivating, historically fascinating city.

Visit Paris: Iconic landmarks

No visit to Paris would be complete without seeing its most iconic landmarks. The Eiffel Tower , built for the 1889 World’s Fair, stands tall as the symbol of Paris. Its wrought-iron lattice design was a technological marvel of its time, and today, visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. At the western end of the famous Champs-Élysées avenue, the Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought and died for France in various wars. Climb to its viewing platform for another stunning city vista.

The Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, has captivated visitors for centuries with its intricate sculptures, stained glass windows, and flying buttresses. Despite the tragic fire in 2019 , it remains a must-see from the outside while restoration work finalises. Perched atop Montmartre hill, the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers a serene escape from the city bustle. Its steps provide an ideal spot to take in the sweeping views of Paris.

World-class museums

Paris is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums. The Louvre, housed in a former royal palace, boasts an unparalleled collection of art and artifacts from ancient times to the 19th century. Highlights include Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo sculpture. Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues.

Across the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay showcases an impressive Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art collection in a beautifully converted railway station. Marvel at masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and more. For a taste of modern and contemporary art, head to the Centre Pompidou, known for its striking inside-out architecture and extensive collection featuring works by Picasso, Warhol, and Duchamp.

If time allows, consider exploring some of Paris’ smaller museums. The Musée Rodin displays the sculptor’s works in a charming mansion and garden setting, while the Musée de l’Orangerie houses Monet’s famous Water Lilies series in a tranquil oval room. Art lovers should also visit the Musée Picasso, which is dedicated to the life and works of the influential Spanish artist.

Parisian experiences

Seine river cruise.

A cruise along the Seine River offers a unique vantage point to admire Paris’ iconic landmarks. Choose from classic sightseeing cruises that provide commentary on the monuments you pass, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay.

Opt for an evening cruise for a more romantic experience when the city’s bridges and buildings are beautifully illuminated. Some cruises even include meals or live music for a memorable night on the water.

Wander the charming, winding cobblestone streets of Montmartre, a neighbourhood that exudes an unmistakable village-like atmosphere.

This bohemian district was once a haven for artists like Picasso, Renoir, and Van Gogh, who were inspired by its quaint charm. Climb the steps to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking panoramic views over Paris’ rooftops.

Food and drink

Indulge in classic French cuisine by trying dishes like steak-frites, coq au vin, cheese and charcuterie platters, or bouillabaisse. Stop at a patisserie to sample delectable pastries like flaky croissants, colourful macarons, or decadent éclairs. Then, find a charming café, order a glass of French wine, and spend an afternoon people-watching from the terrace like a true Parisian.

The Champs-Élysées is the place for luxury shopping, lined with high-end boutiques from brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and more.

In the trendy Le Marais district, browse concept stores, vintage shops, and hip local designers. Don’t miss the iconic green book stalls (bouquinistes) that line the Seine, perfect for hunting for antique books, prints, or postcards.

Day trips to visit Paris and beyond

While Paris itself offers endless attractions, venturing outside the city for a day trip can add another dimension to your French experience. Here are three popular options:

Palace of Versailles

Step back in time to the grandeur of the French monarchy at the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short train ride from Paris. This opulent baroque palace was built by King Louis XIV in the 17th century and served as the royal residence until the French Revolution. Inside, you’ll be dazzled by the lavish apartments, the glittering Hall of Mirrors, and the exquisite Royal Chapel.

The palace is surrounded by equally impressive gardens featuring intricate fountains, perfectly manicured lawns, and charming groves. Rent a rowboat to explore the Grand Canal or stroll through the orangery and the Queen’s Hamlet, a rustic retreat built for Marie Antoinette. With 2,300 rooms and 250 acres of gardens, Versailles can be overwhelming, so consider joining a guided tour to make the most of your visit and learn about the palace’s fascinating history.

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris, located just 20 miles east of the city, is a dream destination for families and Disney enthusiasts. The resort consists of two theme parks: Disneyland Park, which features classic attractions like It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean, and Walt Disney Studios Park, which offers behind-the-scenes experiences and thrill rides inspired by Disney’s movies and animation.

Art lovers and nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to Giverny, a picturesque village just an hour’s train ride from Paris. This is where renowned Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked for over 40 years, drawing inspiration from the beautiful landscapes.

After exploring Monet’s world, take time to wander through the charming village of Giverny itself, with its quaint stone houses, inviting cafes, and local art galleries. A day trip to Giverny provides a refreshing escape from the city bustle and a deeper appreciation for the beauty that inspired one of the world’s most beloved artists.

Visit Paris, the City of Light

Paris offers an unparalleled array of experiences for first-time visitors, from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to charming neighbourhoods and mouthwatering cuisine. While this article highlights some must-see attractions, there’s so much more to discover in this enchanting city.

Start planning your own Parisian adventure today, and let the City of Light captivate you with its timeless beauty, rich history, and irresistible joie de vivre. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, exploring the Louvre, or savouring a croissant at a cosy café, Paris will surely leave an indelible mark on your heart.

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24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

Europe Diaries

Tips for visiting Paris when you don’t speak French

After hearing a lot of stories about people getting confused and lost in Paris due to the language barrier, I was a bit apprehensive about exploring the city without knowing French. But, I’m so glad that the lovely Stefanie from Free in Paris  decided to share some tips for those of us might be in this situation! Stefanie is an American expat in Paris and writes a blog about all things free and inexpensive that one could do in Paris. So, without further ado, let’s see what tips she has for us. Pin it

Tips for visiting Paris when you don’t speak French – europediaries.com

If you are planning a trip to Paris and you don’t speak French, you may worry about the effect the language barrier will have on your trip. Maybe you are apprehensive about interacting with local French people; we all know the stereotype of the rude Parisian. In reality, locals can be quite friendly and the language barrier can be overcome, but often it’s a question of approach.

Here are three tips to help you enjoy your trip to Paris when you don’t speak French:

    1. know that many people in paris speak at least basic english..

Compared to many of their European neighbors, French people often have a reputation for not speaking foreign languages well. But with Paris being such an international city, you’ll often find at least one person who can understand you when you are shopping or in need of directions. The Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Tourism Regional Board have even created a free mobile app called “ Yes I speak touriste.” Using the app’s interactive map, Paris visitors can find shops, hotels and restaurants in the city where their native language is spoken.

     2. Try to speak French anyway.

Even if you can probably find someone who speaks English well enough to communicate with you, it’s still worth the effort to learn a few phrases in French and to bring a small French language guidebook with you on your trip. Making an effort to speak French can help you avoid scams and you’ll often find that it leads to a warmer welcome from locals. For example, asking for une carafe d’eau instead of “water” can mean not being charged for expensive bottled water at a restaurant.

How to say “Do you speak English?” in French

“ bonjour, parlez-vous anglais ”.

Greeting someone with “ Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais ? ” before asking your question will often lead to a more pleasant interaction. And when you think about it, it makes sense. Wouldn’t it be strange for someone to come up to you in your hometown and immediately start speaking in French? Besides, making an effort to speak French—even if you only know a few words and expressions and make lots of mistakes—can make your stay in Paris much more enjoyable.

This is something I had to learn personally when I came to France from the United States. Y ou see, I actually moved to Paris two times. My first move ended with me feeling homesick and beleaguered, ready to put an end to what had been a difficult year. This second time, my experience has been completely different. I have French friends and have pleasant conversations with the fruit and vegetable sellers I see at the local outdoor market every Sunday. Paris has truly become home for me and I contribute that in large part to having learned French this time around.

Even when I was first learning the language, my everyday interactions became much richer when I made an effort to speak French. And now, as I close in on my sixth year in the city and look back on all of the struggles and successes I’ve had in meeting people, finding a job and carving out my own spot in Paris, speaking French is one thing that stands out as having had the biggest positive impact on my experience

                                                                                              How to say “I don’t know” in French

                                                                                                        “ je ne sais pas.”.

Sign up for a Paris briefing tour and coffee with a local expert here.

   3. Expect to be confused at times

There are quite a few “false friends” in English and French, words that look or sound similar in both languages, but that have different meanings. Monnaie, for example, means “loose change” in French and not money. Grapes are raisins in French and plums are prunes.  Similarly, other French words don’t always mean what you might think. The word libre can be translated as “free,” but libre-service doesn’t mean that something is free, but that it’s self-service or something available to everyone (for a price).

Sometimes, such small language differences can lead to big mix-ups. In 2009, a British tourist traveling through France found herself in one such situation when she came upon a small town and wanted to book a room for the night. She went to the hôtel de ville , and decided to make a quick stop in the restroom before reserving her room. Unfortunately, she hadn’t realized that in French, hôtel de ville means “town hall” and not “hotel.” While she was in the toilet, local officials finished their meeting and, not realizing she was there, closed up the town hall for the night. The tourist was locked in the building until she was rescued by a local passing by the next day.

The hôtel de ville

While such a major mix-up is unlikely to happen to you while you’re in Paris, you should expect some misunderstandings and moments of confusion during your trip. Try not to take yourself too seriously or get frustrated and instead, think of the funny stories you’ll have to share later on. You may even find yourself enjoying the new language challenge and celebrating small victories, like being understood when you order breakfast at a bakery, or being able to ask for directions in French. In the end, making an effort to speak a little French can make for a better trip to Paris. You may even make some new French friends.

Well, those were some very helpful tips!Thank you so much,Stefanie . What do you folks think about this? Have you faced any difficult situations due to the language barrier in France, or other places? Do you always learn a few important words and phrases beforehand? Let me know! Oh, and you can also connect with Stephanie on Twitter and Facebook !

You may also like:

Exploring the Eiffel Tower at sunset

Staying in Montmartre, Paris: The Terras Hotel

Staying in a residential area in Paris: 20th Arr

Lost in translation!- Travel stories from foreign lands

Lost in Translation-Part 2

Exploring France through food and wine

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33 Comments

Pingback: 12 film-inspired travel ideas for 2017 - filmfantravel.com, pingback: droolworthy vegetarian dishes from 24 countries in europe - europe diaries.

Joanne/Joey

Any opinion on the Paris Pass for multiple day visit! It seems pricey! Thanks!

reflectiveponderer

Hey! For how long are you going? I found the Museum Pass to be of value for me and got a 4 day one..I calculated the entrance fees of the places I wanted to visit and the Museum Pass was worth it even if I went to 4 places or so. I thought the Paris Pass was pricey too..rather got a set of 10 transport tickets at once that could be used eventually ..

Thank you! We’re looking at suggestions for a place to stay! We aren’t picky just need clean, quiet and maybe 2 twin beds? Near a metro stop would be great! I wondered about staying near the Eiffel Tower so we could walk there often!

Thank you so much for this blog/post!! My husband and I are visiting Paris for the first time in May for 5 days and I am a little anxious about the language barrier. I am learning a few phrases that I think will be vital and trying to read blogs and posts. I also am trying to study the map of Paris so I have some general idea of where things are! I would love to have a guide! Ha! Thanks for sharing these tips!!

Hey Joanne!I’m so glad you found this post useful. I hope you have a wonderful trip to Paris.Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you need any other info:)

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2traveldads

Attempting to speak French is so very key to a great visit. I found that EVERYONE was more helpful and happy to interact with me when I used my broken French… and I got so much better at speaking after only a few days (and even got compliments on my accent!)

Stéphanie Langlet

I can’t agree more with these tips. I will also add one important thing : French people can seem rude with foreigners sometimes. It’s generally because of their bad level of English. They are stressed and, if you forget to use this very useful tip you gave here “always first ask do you speak English”, it will be a good excuse to cut the discussion and not to make the effort to understand.

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Phoebe @ Lou Messugo

I love the story of the Hotel de Ville, that woman got to stay a night in a “hotel” after all!! Thanks for linking up these tips to #AllAboutFrance, I’m sure lots of readers will find them very helpful. The most useful I think is to always smile and start with bonjour….

What a great post. I’ve been to Paris 4 times now, and thankfully my French is a little better each time. I’ve never gone with absolutely no French, but I think your second point is the most important. Try. Just a little even. Knowing to greet shopkeepers with a cheery Bonjour- as they will to you is very important. A phrase or two, and then many of them do know really quite good English- in Paris at least, it may not be the same in smaller towns.

whatupswags

That hotel de ville story is EPIC. Kind of terrifying, but also incredibly crazy! Great tips, and totally accurate!

Hotel de Ville must be the most confusing thing for non-French speakers. Recently we’ve had two visiting cyclists touring Europe, who both believed they would always find accommodation wherever they went because there was an Hotel de Ville in every town.

As for being trapped overnight in the loo – unimaginable. I’m claustrophobic and never use a public convenience without a foolproof escape route. Unless the lock is a simple mechanism that cannot fail to open, I keep the door closed by wedging my bag across it, and hum loudly to alert possible intruders. If anybody did breach these defences, well, I’d sooner be found with my knickers round my ankles than locked in.

Wow..that’s a good strategy! And as for the cyclists, I hope they didn’t get into trouble because of the misunderstanding! Thanks so much for sharing your valuable thoughts here:)

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I’ve been having similar issues with Portuguese.. I’m getting by with my Spanish skills, mostly… though also a lot of gesturing, and going “uuuhhhhhh nao falo Portugues..” hahaha! I think I will need a long rest once back home.. Being in another language and culture is exhausting!

I totally agree with number two- even just a few stock standard phrases in French shows people you are open minded and willing to try to communicate. It can make all the difference!

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Stefanie@freeinparis

Thanks for sharing everyone! Glad to know I’m not the only one who has had some communication issues when trying to speak a foreign language.

mytravelmonkey

Absolutely great tips – I am terrible with languages but I do try and learn the basics, such as please and thank you… I do try to speak it, but I think I get very funny looks! Thanks for sharing on #MondayEscapes

Just went to Paris for a day last month with basically no words. We were able to point at things, cobble together some Frenglish, and use some of our poor French on people. Seemed to have worked well enough. Hoping to get back this next year

beatravelling

I’ve been to Paris twice already, and might be off this fall for the third time. So far, so good, but it’s not the easiest place to visit when you’re non-French speaking 🙂

#mondayescapes

Ah..how did you manage the first time?Did you already know some French?

Haha, thinking back it is actually unbelievable how I got away with no French, because it is non-existent! Normandy was even “”worse”. There I had real problems 🙂 Was always curious about what I had ordered for dinner 😀

Lol..must have been hillarious..btw, I am compiling a collab post abouy misinterpreting the local language or culture and falling into funny or embarrassing situations. .would love to have a paragraph and a picture from you:-)

Well, when you’re at a restaurant with a French only menu and a dictionary and still feel totally lost, you kind of just try to make out a word or two and hope for the best. And we didn’t end up with something totally off. But nothing very tasteful either… I don’t think I’ve ever been so glad to sit down for a burger at Hard Rock Cafe (back in Paris) 🙂

Would love to contribute. Get in touch per e-mail? Mine is post @ beatravelling . com

mailed you 2 days ago:)

The Vagabond Baker

Oh, that poor girl, being locked in the Hotel de Ville! Great tips, it’s all about confidence, isn’t it? I confused a guy in a cafe in Grenoble trying to order a peppermint tea, I don’t know how though! I had to resort to english!

Haha! Ya, it can be difficult at times! I’ve had my fair share of problems communicating in German:)

I rubbish at German, I never learnt it at school and it feels totally alien compared to French, Spanish and Italian (the last to I barely speak though). I’m trying (!) to learn Finnish and I think I’m going to have trouble communicating, I’m sure I can nail the listening and reading but not the speaking!

Whoa! That’s a lot of languages you can speak/understand! Must be so useful while travelling..

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8 unforgettable reasons to visit Paris

8 reasons to visit Paris, including famous landmarks, delicious food, shopping opportunities, the café culture, the art collections, the parks and gardens, the day trips, and the Worldpackers experiences!

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Feb 12, 2024

Paris has a place on pretty much every traveler's bucket list. It is known as the most romantic city in the world, and is home to some world famous sights that are constantly shown in travel magazines, movies, and other works of art.

Paris, the capital of France, has a population of over two million people and is one of Europe's most-visited cities .

There are two major international airports in Paris, Orly Airport and Charles de Gaulle Airport, the latter of which is the second busiest airport in all of Europe. There are also plenty of buses and trains passing through Paris, making it a convenient stop on a European budget backpacking trip .

But why is Paris so famous? What is it about this city that attracts travelers from all over the globe? There has to be more than just the Eiffel Tower, right?

Right. Paris is a diverse and sophisticated city that appeals to the wealthy but can also be enjoyed on a budget. In addition to the Eiffel Tower, Paris has countless other gorgeous landmarks and monuments that add to the beauty of the spacious boulevards and their charming cafés.

French cuisine is also world-famous, and you can find some of the best of it in Paris. There is world-class shopping and a dynamic fashion scene, and plenty of interesting museums and art galleries.

Just outside Paris, there are plenty of fun day trips to take for further insight into the culture and history of France.

Paris is absolutely packed with things to do, so no traveler who stops here will find themselves bored . As a wonderful insight into French culture and cuisine, with some incredible photo opportunities, Paris deserves its place on every traveler's bucket list of destinations .

In this article, I'll explain some of the reasons why travelers should visit Paris . At the end, I'll reveal some of the amazing Worldpackers volunteer experiences available in Paris and around France. 

So if any budget travelers are looking to save money and work and live with locals to have a deeper experience with the French culture, you'll definitely find some inspiration there.

Don't miss out on 

• Complete travel guide to visit Paris on a budget
• Where to go in France: the ultimate guide on the 29 best places to see other than Paris
• Famous landmarks
• Amazing French food
• Shopping opportunities
• The café culture
• Impressive art collections
• Parks and gardens
• Fun day trips
• Worldpackers experiences

For this adventure you will need a good international travel insurance, so get now a 10% discount on Pax Assistance by clicking here ! If you are a Worldpackers verified member with one of the Pack plans, we are giving a 20% discount on Pax! *Valid for all nationalities, except for United States and Canadian citizens. 

If you are a US or Canadian citizen, we recommend World Nomads .

1. Famous landmarks

When people think of Paris, they most likely picture its famous landmarks. Paris has many stunning sights that showcase impressive architecture and design, and these places have become world-famous for their beauty.

The ample photo opportunities are some of the most popular reasons to visit Paris for travelers, writers, artists and bloggers. 

Here are some notable landmarks in Paris that draw tourists to the city:

The eiffel tower.

As one of the most famous monuments in the entire world , the Eiffel Tower has become a symbol of Paris. Made of wrought iron and standing 324 meters tall, the Eiffel Tower is a sight to see. At night time the tower lights up in shimmering gold, and there are nice gardens surrounding the tower that make for a once-in-a-lifetime picnic spot.

Tickets to enter and climb the Eiffel Tower vary; it costs €7 if you are willing to climb the stairs and €11 to take the elevator, and there are different prices for different age groups . The line also gets very long, so try to arrive early.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world , but even those who aren't interested in art will stop here to witness the incredible design of the massive building and take pictures with the pyramids. 

There is one large pyramid and three smaller ones, the largest one being the main entrance to the museum and all four are constructed of glass and metal. Tourists love to pose on the concrete blocks around the Louvre courtyard and pose with the iconic pyramids.

It costs €15 to enter the Louvre Museum, and it is completely free to hang out in the courtyard and admire the building .

Notre Dame Cathedral

This medieval Gothic cathedral has become known as a symbol of Paris , and there has even been a Disney movie set in the cathedral (The Hunchback of Notre Dame). 

Construction of the cathedral began in 1160, though it has had its ups and downs throughout history. Nowadays, it stands tall and magnificent and is a huge draw to anyone who loves impressive architecture and photo opportunities.

It costs €8,50 to enter Notre Dame, though there is usually a very long line so try to arrive early .

Arc De Triomphe

Located at the end of the famous shopping street, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, this massive arch commemorates the soldiers who fought in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. It has become a well-known national monument of France , and you can climb about 280 stairs to get to the top for an amazing view over the city. 

It costs €12 to enter the Arc De Triomphe and climb to the top, though it is free to admire the landmark from the outside .

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris , this Roman Catholic Church stands at the highest point in the city and is known for its towering white domes. 

It is located on top of Montmartre Hill , which is a charming area full of history and art. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a relatively new landmark in Paris; construction began in the late 1800s and the church was completed in 1914.

It is free to enter Sacre Coeur basilica, though you can pay €5 to climb to the very top if you would like.

The Palais Garnier

This monument is a giant opera house that is arguably one of the most impressive buildings in Paris . 

Built-in the 1800s, this magnificent building has hosted so many operas, ballets, and other artistic performances and it is a huge part of Parisian history and culture. 

This opera house was also used as the setting for the famous novel, The Phantom Of The Opera , which has now become a Broadway musical and major motion picture film.

You can take a guided tour of Palais Garnier to learn all there is to know about this significant building .

2. Amazing French food

One of the best reasons to visit Paris is easily the food. French cuisine has earned itself a place on the list of best cuisines in the world, and foodies from all over the globe travel to France just for the food.

To prove how amazing the French are at cooking, they even invented the prestigious Michelin Star rating system that measures the quality of the best restaurants all over the world.

But you don't have to dine out at Michelin-star restaurants to get a taste of French cuisine . There are some staple French dishes that you can find in restaurants of all price ranges .

Some French classics to try include Soupe à l'oignon, a heartwarming beef stock and onion soup commonly known as french onion Soup, Bouillabaisse, a fish and seafood stew, Steak-Frites, pan sautéed steak with french fries, and Beef Bourguignon, beef cooked with red wine and mushrooms. All these classic French dishes can be found in restaurants all over Paris.

You also have to try some of the delicious bread products and pastries in Paris. Just a classic baguette or croissant will taste better here than anywhere else in the world.

Also when it comes to desserts, the French do them so well. Desserts like chocolate mousse, Crème au Caramel, Crème brûlée, éclairs, chocolate soufflé, and more are native to France. You can find these sweets all over the world but you might as well try them where they originated.

Some famous bakeries in Paris where you can try the best-quality desserts and breads include Des Gâteaux et du Pain , Carl Marletti , Du Pain et des Idées , Karamel , and Chambelland .

Also be sure to stop by Ladurée to try their famous macarons, which are small meringue based cookie sandwiches with a layer of creme in the middle.

3. Shopping opportunities

With an overwhelming sense of classic culture mixed with sleek modernity, Paris has so many shopping opportunities for travelers who want to treat themselves. Whether you want to shop in some famous high-end stores or just pick up a few nice souvenirs, Paris has it all.

The most famous place to shop in Paris is Avenue des Champs-Élysées . This wide avenue is almost 2 km long and is packed full of cafés, restaurants, theaters, and shops. Everything here tends to be more luxurious, so this is the place to go if you have a bit of money to spend and want to blend in with the high-end Parisian fashionistas.

Other shopping locations for high-end purchases include Rue Du Commerce , Boulevard Saint Germain , Triangle D'or , and Rue De Rivoli . 

Boulevard Haussmann is another location in Paris with gorgeous department stores.

Even if you don't plan on buying anything fancy or expensive, it can be fun to explore luxury stores and admire all the beautiful items without buying anything. Paris takes presentation very seriously, so just pretending you are among Paris's fashion elite and browsing the high-end stores is a fun way to spend an afternoon in the city.

There are also plenty of places for budget travelers to shop in Paris. Visit the Saint-Ouen Flea Market to find some cool vintage goods from around the world, or visit Le Marais for more vintage collections.

You will also find an abundance of classic souvenir shops in touristy areas around Paris, so pop into one of those if you're just looking for a cute t-shirt or a keychain.

4. The café culture

Paris has one of the strongest café cultures in the world . There is nothing quite as satisfying as sitting on a wicker chair at an outdoor café in Paris, sipping a coffee and eating a croissant while watching the Parisians go about their day.

Parisians have café culture engrained in their society. During a busy day, or before work, or after work, locals love to relax in a café with a drink and either catch up with friends and colleagues or just enjoy some solo time.

Café culture has been part of the Paris lifestyle for centuries. You can even find mementos of historical figures that have visited certain Paris cafés (Les Deux Magots is a classic café in Paris that prides itself on its famous visitors).

Keep in mind that people are allowed to smoke at outdoor tables in France. If you'd prefer to avoid the cigarette smoke that wafts through France's streets, you might want to sit inside. Most cafés are open all day long and serve small plates of food as well. You do not need to tip at cafés in Paris, though you can round up to the closest euro if you want.

Here are some of the best cafés in Paris to visit during your stay:

• La Fontaine de Belleville : A café on a street corner that serves all the French classics
• Au Vieux Paris D'Arcole : Has a beautiful design and lots of flowers outside
• Lomi : This rustic café has a tasting and training center on site
• Le Fouquet's : Like Les Deux Magots, this café is famous for having many influential guests
• HolyBelly : Has delicious brunch in addition to coffee
• Le Rotunde : Writer Ernest Hemingway mentioned this café in his book, The Sun Also Rises
• Odette : Known for its delicious tea and cakes
• Café Oberkampf : Small and cozy café that serves incredible coffee
• La Fourmi Ailée : Has a vintage atmosphere with lots of books on the walls
• Café de Flore : One of the oldest cafés in Paris
• O Coffeeshop : A mix of Aussie and French culture, this place has a beachy feel
• Deli-Cieux : A rare café that is located high up and offers amazing sunset views

Whether you can visit one or two, or all of these cafés, you will surely be impressed with the charming decor and delicious treats and drinks available. No trip to Paris is complete without a stop in a café to relax and refuel during a long day of sightseeing.

5. Impressive art collections

Many people think of Paris as an artistic city, and they are not wrong. France has been very involved in European art movements throughout history, and there are plenty of places to witness some incredible and famous art while traveling through Paris.

Even if you're not an art fanatic, it can be quite fascinating to see some of the famous art and culture that came out of this world capital . 

So for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the world through visual masterpieces, Paris is a great place to visit. There are too many different art collections around Paris to list them all, but I'll briefly describe a few of the most popular ones.

The Louvre has over 30,000 pieces of art and is home to the famous Mona Lisa.

Musée d'Orsay showcases famous french art from the 1800s and 1900s, including works of art by famous artists Monet, Manet, Degas, and Van Gogh.

Centre Pompidou has lots of different exhibitions and art collections on view, and it has a very impressive display of modern art.

Musée National Picasso has thousands of artworks by the famous Spanish artist, Pablo Picasso, and is set inside the Hôtel Salé.

Petit Palais  is a stunning building that houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. This art collection is free to enter and has forms of art including painting, sculpture, and even furniture and antiques.

Musee du Quai Branly showcases a very diverse range of indigenous art from Oceania, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, thus enlightening visitors about different cultures and their histories.

6. Parks and gardens

For such a massive city, Paris has plenty of green spaces designed to break up the stuffiness of the metropolis. These beautiful gardens make the city feel more open, and they make for lovely stops during a day of exploring.

You may stumble across some of the more centrally-located parks by accident, or you can pack a bag and head to one of the further parks for a day of enjoying nature. Either way, the green spaces of Paris are simply stunning and they make the city feel so much more enjoyable.

The abundance of spacious parks is definitely some of the best reasons for families to visit Paris  because they can take their kids here to let off some steam. There is plenty of space for family picnics and sports games, so if you are traveling as a family then stopping by a park is a must.

Here are a few of the best parks and gardens to visit in Paris:

Bois de vincennes.

This is the largest green space in Paris and was created in the 1800s by Napoleon III. In addition to the peaceful gardens, here you can also find a zoo, a botanical garden, a racing track, and other eye-catching monuments. 

I recommend coming here for a day and bringing some snacks and a blanket so you can just wander around and soak in the relaxing energy.

The Tuileries Gardens

These stunning gardens were created in 1564 but were originally only designed for royalty. After the French Revolution, the area became a public park and it is now one of the most beautiful areas to stroll through in Paris. It is located near the Louvre and makes a wonderful stop during a day of sightseeing.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

In northeastern Paris you'll find this large public park full of green grass and trails perfect for running, walking, or cycling. There is a vast artificial lake inside the park which has a 50-meter-high cliff in the center. If you want to feel like you are really in the woods and not in the middle of one of the world's biggest cities, then come here!

The Luxembourg Gardens

Inspired by the beautiful Boboli Gardens of Florence, the Luxembourg Gardens exude an aura of luxury and designs. With landscaped gardens, rich green grass, fountains, lots of flowers, and the Luxembourg Palace just nearby, you may feel like royalty while hanging out in this park.

Bois de Boulogne

As one of the biggest parks in Paris , this green space is more than double the size of Central Park in NYC. There is a beautiful lake here as well as lots of space for having picnics, playing frisbee, or just taking a tap in the soft grass.

Trocadéro Gardens

This charming green space is located just across from the Eiffel Tower, so it is a nice place to relax and take some photos of the iconic landmark. This park is most famous for the Fountain of Warsaw, which is a long pool filled with fountains that create a beautiful scene.

7. Fun day trips

If you have more than a few days to spend in Paris, why not venture outside the city for a day? Paris is surrounded by lots of natural beauty and historical landmarks, so if you've seen all there is to see, take a day trip so you can experience more of France.

Funny that some of the best reasons to visit Paris are located outside Paris! But day trips are a great way to explore a new country without having to spend lots of money.

Here are some fun day trips to take from Paris:

The palace of versailles.

With construction starting in 1631, the Palace of Versailles is famous for housing a few of France's past leaders. The ground originally served as a hunting lodge and chateau for Louis XIII, and later on, Louis XIV lived here until the French Revolution started in 1789.

After the French Revolution, the palace had a turbulent history; it was used for many different roles by many different French leaders.

Nowadays, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historical monument that travelers from all over the world come to visit. The palace has stunning decorations and rooms that exude regality. The landscaped gardens outside are massive and aesthetically pleasing, full of fountains and sculptures. A highlight of the palace is the Hall of Mirrors.

The Palace of Versailles is only 30 minutes away from Paris, and you can either take the train, or the bus or book a group tour.

Mont Saint-Michel

This is the most-visited tourist attraction in Normandy  and makes a lovely day trip from Paris. Mont Saint-Michel is a tiny island located about 1 km off of France's northwestern coast.

Though this used to be a pilgrimage center and is mainly a religious site, anyone can come and admire the hilltop monastery surrounded by the sea. The monastery is known as the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey , and there are a few monks and nuns who live inside the Abbey. It costs €10 to enter the Abbey .

At high tide, the island appears to be floating in the water, and at low tide, you can walk along the sand, right up to the edge of the attraction. Wear comfortable walking shoes while visiting here as you'll have to climb lots of hills and stairs to reach the height of Mont Saint-Michel.

It takes about three hours by train to travel from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel. You can easily do this in a day if you are short on time, but if you don't want to rush you can even stay overnight in a town near the island and return to Paris the next day.

Claude Monet's Gardens in Giverny

Located in the charming town of Giverny in Normandy, the Fondation Claude Monet has worked hard to preserve the residence of this famous painter.

As one of the founders of the French Impressionist movement, Claude Monet's paintings are smooth, colorful, and simply gorgeous. Even if you are not an art fanatic, this day trip can still be fun because the area is so beautiful.

The village of Giverny served as a commonplace of inspiration for other French painters, Édouard Manet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Giverny also has an American Museum of Art and plenty of nice cafes and restaurants.

Claude Monet lived in the village of Giverny from 1883 to 1926, and his picturesque house and gardens have been well-kept. There are plenty of colorful flowers and a Japanese Bridge, and many other scenes that seemed to appear in Claude Monet's paintings.

You can visit Giverny either by train or car from Paris, or you can book a tour.

Paris Disneyland

Though Disneyland is actually in Paris, people normally spend a whole day here so I think it fits better under the category of day trips. 

Those who have already visited Disneyland in the USA may not be interested in this, but if provides a super fun and exciting day for those who have never experienced the magic of Disneyland. 

Disney is very near and dear to many people's hearts, as the movies and characters grew up with us throughout our childhood. Spending a day meeting all the characters and riding roller coasters and other rides makes you feel like a kid again. 

You can also head to the Walt Disney Studio Park to watch performances and behind-the-scenes shows. If you are traveling with a family, this is a great place to visit as it has entertainment for all ages. 

From the city center, you can take a shuttle, train, or metro to Paris Disneyland . 

8. Worldpackers experiences

If you have a few weeks or more to spend in France, you can always try volunteering with Worldpackers in Paris . 

Volunteering at local establishments is a great way to explore the culture deeply, and you can save plenty of money on accommodation .

Most work exchanges require roughly 20 hours of work per week, and in exchange, you get free room and board, and sometimes free meals, tours, laundry, and other perks. This is also a great way to gain valuable work experience for your resume  while on the road. 

For an incredible French experience, spend a few days exploring Paris and then venture outside the city to volunteer in a different area of France . 

Head to northwestern France to work in a guest house in Côtes-d'Armor . If you're a dog lover, you can volunteer in a guest house here and help with gardening and taking care of the dogs . What better way to enjoy this stunning coastal French town than living with locals and helping out local businesses?

Also in the northwest of France is a small village called Hambers where there are a few volunteer opportunities for travelers as well. If you love to work outside, there is a homestay here that needs help with farm repair and roof restoration . Past travelers say this is a great place to relax and connect with nature , so during your time off you can explore the landscape or enjoy some peace and quiet with a book. 

If you want to explore some different parts of the country, head south to the city of Montpellier. Here, you can volunteer at an eco-village , or work as a web developer or event organizer . There is also an interesting experience here for  renewable energy youth training , only if you are a French or Dutch resident though. 

Another top-rated Worldpackers host in southwestern France is located in the historical area of Dordogne. Here there is a friendly local family who needs help renovating their home . In exchange for your efforts, the family will feed you all your meals and help you explore nearby towns and attractions. This is a great way to explore this area of France while saving money and getting to know a local family. 

For a change of scenery, you can even volunteer in the French alps. Visit Oz en Oisans in southeastern France to work in a guest house in the mountains . Here, they need help with general cleaning, housekeeping, and gardening, and in exchange, you will get free meals and the opportunity to explore this beautiful area of France. 

So another one of the best reasons to visit Paris is all the doors it opens for you! After exploring the city, you can hop on a train or bus and head to a different area of France for a life-changing volunteer experience. 

Even if you don't have the time to volunteer in France, your time in Paris will undoubtedly be a wonderful experience and introduction to French culture. 

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Home > Paris Attractions > Paris is Always a Good Idea: 10 Reasons to Visit Paris

Paris is Always a Good Idea: 10 Reasons to Visit Paris

Why visit paris.

Paris is always a good idea . The French capital is one of the most romantic cities in Europe and one of the world’s most visited cities.

There are endless reasons to visit Paris repeatedly: it is a beautiful and cultural city, very walkable, with great sights, and it has been a source of inspiration for many writers, artists, and filmmakers. ‘ Paris is Always a Good Idea ‘, Audrey Hepburn said. But why people love Paris so much? Why visit Paris?

As locals in Paris, we are lucky to enjoy the City of Light all year round, through its different seasons, events, and also different moods. We like to play explorers in our city and wander around the districts of Paris , from the most touristy to the most popular with the amazed eyes of the enamored stroller.

There’s always familiar air through the streets of Paris, which is never quite the same or quite another. Between a postcard panorama and the inhabitants’ reality, the eternal Paname , in perpetual motion, is constantly evolving, keeping the living traces of its history in its heart of stone.

If you wonder why Paris is the best place to visit or why you should go to Paris, this article is for you. Below, we share what we love most about Paris –  the top 10 reasons to visit Paris – completing the list with beautiful shots by fellow travel bloggers.

Because Paris is Always a Good Idea   ♥

NB: This post is dedicated to N, thanks for your courage and effort to become a Parisian!

Seasons in Paris

What is the best time to visit Paris? All the seasons in Paris have their charm, and if you can visit the city more than once, try to do it under different seasons for a different Paris experience.

In Spring , the exuberance of flowering trees and cherry and apple trees’ beauty are all sweet promises.

Summer is the craziest season in Paris, the high season when everybody wants to come, and the locals can’t wait to leave. But summer is also the season of the best festivals, apéritif drinks on the terrace, and nights under the stars.

In autumn , Paris returns to tranquility and can cuddle its guests. The fall foliage in Paris parks is something to see, while the natural light playing on the other of the stone is exceptional.

When winter and the winter holidays come, Paris’s streets are all lit up to reveal their enchantment.

The River Seine, Paris’ Most Beautiful Avenue

The River Seine (La Seine in French) is Paris’ most beautiful avenue and one of the main reasons to go to Paris. The River Seine winds its way through the heart of Paris, bisecting it from east to west. It is the origin of the city, and Paris’s development is uniquely tied to the river.

A stroll along the Seine’s banks on a sunny day is a wonder: majestic historical buildings reflected on its waters, the typical Parisian rooftops , the bridges of the Seine , each one with a unique style . . . But also the iconic bouquinistes , improvised picnics by locals dangling their feet over the water, and even a crazy beach area in the summer!

At sunset, take a Seine night cruise to enjoy the City’s top monuments’ nocturnal revival: magical atmosphere guaranteed.

Beautiful Architecture

From Roman times to the Middle Ages, from the Haussmannian creations to the contemporary buildings, Paris’s architectural richness is anchored in the form of contemporaneity that goes beyond the idea of ​​a city-museum.

Paris also offers visitors an interesting game of architectural contrasts that can only enhance its beauty: Pei’s pyramid in the Louvre’s classic courtyard, the ultramodern Centre Pompidou in front of Gothic Saint-Merry Church, or the Musée du Quai Branly at the foot of the Eiffel Tower are only a few examples.

Next time you visit Paris, watch it from above to admire the city’s landscape and its architectural blend. During the day, several landmarks offer breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower,   Tour Montparnasse , or Arc de Triomphe. At night, admire the city’s skyline from some of the best rooftop bars in Paris , cocktail in hand, and gazing across the lights and landmarks that define the city.

With such magnificent architecture and views, it’s no wonder that Paris is on everybody’s Europe Bucket List !

GOOD TO KNOW: Why is Paris also known as ‘The City of Light’ or ‘City of Lights’? This is because, in the past, it was a famous center of education and ideas. Also, Paris was one of the first cities to adopt street lighting. In 1828, Paris started lighting the Champs-Elysées with gas lamps.

The Capital of Haute Couture and Fashion

Paris is always a good idea, also for great shopping. Thanks to fashion designers like Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, or Yves Saint Laurent , Paris is today the capital of haute couture and fashion.

There is great shopping in the city , especially in the famous Golden Triangle of Paris (Champs Elysées – Avenue Georges V – Avenue Montaigne). The most prestigious international labels display their best creations.

More modest budgets will prefer the Grands Boulevards with its huge Art-Déco shopping malls or the streets of Le Marais , with their trendy shops and vintage shops.

Paris is a Cultural City

If you like arts and culture, you will quickly understand why Paris is the best place to visit. Paris is a source of inspiration for cinema, literature, music, but it also inspires the most cultured visitors with its artistic and cultural program.

The city counts 153 museums, with worldwide known names like the Louvre Museum or the Orsay Museum. If you are looking for more peaceful places to cure your thirst for art, other museums like the Modern Art Museum or the Musée des Arts et Métiers are also interesting.

Paris always attracted great creators looking for inspiration and fame. Today, people can visit the work of artists like Picasso, Dali,  Zadkine, or Monet in beautiful, intimate museums, or even in their original workshops.

For a more local experience, visit the Musée Carnevalet , which offers a fascinating glimpse into Paris’s history. Or explore some smaller museums like the Paris Sewer Museum or the (oh so Parisian) Perfume Museum .

Finally, don’t miss the theatres’ programs, the two opera houses, neighborhood cinemas, auteur cinemas, and cabarets. And the art & photography galleries that punctuate the streets of Le Marais offer many free exhibitions of absolute tranquility.

The City of 100 Villages

One of the reasons why Paris is the best place to visit is its capacity to wonder first-timers and more experienced visitors.

Paris is the city of the Haussmannian buildings and boulevards. Still, it is also the city of a hundred villages: flowery alleys, country villas, and bucolic dead ends are a total change of scenery and the curious walkers’ joy.

In the heart of the city of stone, try to venture off the beaten path, and you may find a Paris stuck in time, exotic and out of the ordinary. These micro-neighborhoods such as Butte Bergeyre , Mouzaïa , or the Butte aux Cailles are all wonderful places – far from the urban rush – waiting to be discovered.

The Green Spaces: Out of the City without Leaving the City

Paris boasts more than 450 parks and gardens, true verdant settings to breathe fresh air and places of happy memories.

The best parks in Paris include popular names like the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris 6 or the Tuileries Gardens  in Paris 1. Still, there are also lesser-known places like Parc des Buttes Chaumont or the Promenade Plantée , waiting to be discovered. Adventurous walkers will head to the Petite Ceinture for one of the most quirky explorations in Paris.  

The Café Culture in Paris 

The Parisian cafe , complete with the row of round tables facing outward to the sidewalk, is something of an icon and one of Paris’s best pleasures. Even though the weather in Paris can be capricious, there will always be someone parked there with a newspaper, an espresso, or a café crème.

Parisian cafes were the meeting place of the French Enlightenment in the 17th century, and they were the stage of passionately engaging intellectual chats during the roaring twenties. People like Hemingway or Sartre made these public spaces their workplaces, and some of their masterworks were born in Parisian cafes.

What to do in a Parisian cafe? You should people-watch . Just sit on the row of tiny, round tables facing outward, order your coffee (or another drink), and take all the time you need to relax, watching the world go by.

French Gastronomy

Why go to Paris instead of another European capital? Paris and France are also well known for their cuisine. French cuisine and Paris food sound fancy, but in the end, it’s all about quality – fresh produce and creating a harmonious dish that elevates the quality of the main ingredient.

The City of Lights boasts over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, but people with lower budgets can also have an amazing meal in a traditional brasserie or a Parisian bistro .

Food Tours are also a great way to discover a specific Arrondissement of Paris while tasting some of the city’s famous foods . Food tours in Paris usually last 3 to 4 hours and combine walking & sightseeing with gourmet breaks, so you get the best of both worlds.

All this without forgetting the French wine! Wine is one of France’s treasures; the wine regions of France  produce between 7 and 8 billion bottles of wine per year! Wine-tasting tours (or just a glass in a trendy wine bar) are a great way to start a memorable night in Paris , especially if paired with a plate of cheese.

The Sparkling Eiffel Tower

Paris is always a good idea to see The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and France. Perhaps is the Eiffel Tower what makes Paris one of the most romantic cities in Europe ?

Despite all the controversy during its construction and inauguration for the World’s Fair (1889), today, we cannot imagine visiting Paris without climbing up to the Tower’s summit for some of the best views of Paris .

Since 1985, the Eiffel Tower is adorned with lights that sparkle for 5 minutes every hour on the hour. The sparkling has a reach of 80 kilometers, being this the signal for the nocturnal revival of monuments in Paris.

If you can afford it, book a hotel with Eiffel Tower views for a memorable Paris trip.

DID YOU KNOW? According to YouTube, the Eiffel Tower is one of the Most Romantic Places to Propose in the World. Since YouTube’s launch in 2005, the Eiffel Tower is always on its Top 10 Locations for Proposals in the World, only beaten in France by Disneyland Paris (!)

The Perfect Base for Memorable Day Trips

Paris is always a good idea. But the city itself was not enough; there are many interesting places to visit near Paris: historical places, natural places, or picturesque small towns in the French countryside.

There are many beautiful castles to visit near Paris , and we recommend visiting the royal Château de Versailles , or Château de Fontainebleau whilst Château de Chantilly  is much more intimate.

The list of best day trips from Paris includes the Mont Saint-Michel , Monet’s Gardens in Giverny , or the medieval town of Provins .

Have you visited Paris? Why is Paris a good place to visit, in your opinion?

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• The most popular quotes about Paris
• Check out this beautiful list of 30 things to do in Paris
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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

100 iconic places to discover in France before Paris 2024

The Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will take place along the Seine in the heart of the French capital, with a flotilla of boats flanked either side by some of the country's most cherished buildings and cultural gems.

But Paris is not alone in having breathtaking tourist sites , with the entire French territory populated with historical buildings and unique landscapes.

If you have secured your tickets to the Olympic Games or plan to book in the near future , spare some extra time to visit the rest of France: print this article, or take your notebook and write down some of the places below - you'll love to visit them!

This is a non-exhaustive and subjective list given the multitude of other exceptional places to visit in France.

Discover the map of the Olympic Torch Relay route ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024

Romantic castles in France

Chambord Castle (located in Loir-et-Cher): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Chenonceau Castle (Indre-et-Loire): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blois Royal Castle (Loir-et-Cher): 13th century castle. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Cheverny Castle (Loir-et-Cher): inspiration for Tintin creator Hergé, which now hosts a permanent Tintin exhibition .

Guédelon Castle (Yonne): the site of a fortified castle, built using methods from the Middle Ages that started in 1997.

Versailles Castle (Yvelines): historic monument and former home of the kings of France since Louis XIV. The Paris 2024 equestrian and modern pentathlon events will take place here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 July .

Vincennes Castle (Val-de-Marne): the largest royal castle in France. The Paris 2024 road cycling time trial will pass through here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Ormesson Castle (Val-de-Marne): iconic Renaissance building from the 16th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Historical sites in France

Omaha Beach and the landing beaches (Calvados). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 May .

Mont Saint-Michel (Manche): a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 31 May .

Place Stanislas in Nancy (Meurthe-et-Moselle): a classic urban spot listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

European institutions of Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin): significant administrative organisations are located in this beautiful city. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Caves of Lascaux (Dordogne): paintings and engravings from the Paleolithic era can be seen on the walls of these caves. Discovered in 1940 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 22 May .

Vauban fortifications in Besançon (Doubs): Twelve fortified buildings listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 25 June .

Garabit Viaduct (Cantal): 19th century bridge designed and built by Gustave Eiffel a few years before the Eiffel Tower.

Hospices de Beaune (Côte d'Or): 15th century Gothic hospital, classified as a historical monument and converted into a museum. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 July .

Chauvet Cave - Pont d'Arc (Ardèche): discovered in 1994 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cave contains Paleolithic paintings estimated to be more than 30,000 years old.

Old Port of Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic area of the city a few steps from the Olympic sailing venue and the Marseille Marina . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 May .

The Nîmes Arena (Gard): a Roman amphitheatre which dates back to the first century AD and is widely-considered one of the best-preserved antique arenas in the world.

The Millau Viaduct (Aveyron): an iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Tarn valley, which at its highest point reaches 343m. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 May .

Château d'If (Bouches-du-Rhône): a fortress built in the 16th century located off the coast of Marseilles, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel "The Count of Monte Cristo".

The alignments of Carnac (Morbihan): a site with thousands of menhirs (megalithic stones) which were built between the 5th and 7th millennia BC.

Provins (Seine-et-Marne): a historic site from the Middle Ages which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Belfort Citadel (Territory of Belfort): a historic site built in the Middle Ages and expanded in the 19th century.

The City of Carcassonne (Aude): a medieval town which is acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 16 May .

Najac (Aveyron): a picturesque town located in the French commune of Aveyron, with six monuments listed in France’s historical monuments.

Palais Idéal du facteur Cheval (Drôme): 'The Postman Cheval's Ideal Palace' is a classified historical monument built by a postman between 1879 and 1912.

Iconic places in France

The Route des Grands Crus de Bourgogne (Côte d'Or): a 60km-long tourist route which weaves through 37 vineyards.

Oradour-sur-Glane (Haute-Vienne): a historic village and location of a wartime massacre, now a solemn place of remembrance.

La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime): located on the Atlantic coast, the fortified port dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Port of Saint-Malo (Ille-et-Vilaine): a harbour which provides stunning views over the Emerald Coast. Don't miss the picture-postcard buildings in the town of Dinard and, in the distance, the tip of the Cape Fréhel. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Rennes (Ille-et-Vilaine): widely-considered the capital of Brittany and famous for its half-timbered houses, several of which date back to the 18th century, including the Parliament of Brittany, the Opera and City Hall. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Nantes (Loire-Atlantique): famed for its castle (Château des ducs de Bretagne), cathedral and the famous Passage Pommeraye. The city will host Olympic football matches at La Beaujoire Stadium .

'Promenade des Anglais' in Nice (Alpes-Maritimes): a famous avenue along the "Baie des anges" with several prestigious hotels within a short distance to another Olympic football stadium ( Nice Stadium ). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 18 June .

Little Venice district in Colmar (Haut-Rhin): a picturesque district with several historic canals. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Troyes (Aube): a medieval town centred around beautiful buildings. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 July .

The Grand’Place in Lille (Nord): an outstanding urban site not far from Lille’s Olympic venue: Pierre-Mauroy Stadium. On the Olympic Torch Relay: 2 July .

The forest of Fontainebleau (Seine-et-Marne): a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site with its castle classified as a historical monument. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 July .

The Hippodrome (racecourse) of Enghien-Soisy, near Enghien-les-Bains (Val d’Oise): famous for its horse races. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 July .

The Bouchons Lyonnais (Rhône): traditional and local French restaurants, located near the Olympic venue Lyon Stadium .

Quais de Bordeaux (Gironde): the capital of Gironde, along the Garonne River where the Bordeaux Stadium - an Olympic football venue - is located. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 May .

Pays basque (Nouvelle-Aquitaine): a cultural region located by the Pyrenees on the border with Spain. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 May .

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot): a picture-perfect region in Lot and home to the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val (Tarn-et-Garonne): a commune listed among the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Pays Cathare (Occitanie): offers breathtaking views in the Aude region.

Gouffre de Padirac (Lot): a natural cave with an underground river flowing 100m below the surface.

Rocamadour (Lot): get your cameras ready for this local area highlighted by the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Dune of Pilat (Gironde): the highest sand dune in Europe, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Arcachon Basin.

Cordes-sur-Ciel (Tarn): a commune listed in the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France and voted France's Favourite Village in the TV show of the same name.

Collioure (Pyrénées-Orientales): an area located in Pyrénées-Orientales on the Mediterranean coast with a picturesque marina. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 15 May .

Rungis Market (Val-de-Marne): home of the biggest farmers market in the world. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Museums and cultural activities in France

Verdun Memorial (Meuse): a museum dedicated to the history of the Battle of Verdun that took place during World War I. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 29 June .

Louvre-Lens Museum (Pas-de-Calais): linked to the Louvre Museum by a scientific and cultural convention. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 3 July .

Armistice Memorial in Rethondes (Oise): dedicated to the armistice at the end of World War I.

Festival of Lights in Lyon (Rhône): an annual event where light installations are projected onto numerous buildings in the city.

Avignon Festival (Vaucluse): a famous month-long annual festival of theatre and other live performances.

Rencontres de la Photographie in Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône): an international photography festival.

Mucem (Bouches-du-Rhône): Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations in Marseille.

Musée des Confluences in Lyon (Rhône): a museum of natural history located where two famous rivers meet, the Rhône and the Saône.

Music Day (France): celebrations and concerts take place throughout the French territory on 21 June of each year.

Musée des Impressionnismes (Eure): museum dedicated to the impressionist movement located in Giverny, home of its most famous resident Claude Monnet.

Musée de la BD d’Angoulême (Charente): museum dedicated to comic books, where an annual festival is held every January. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 24 May .

LYON, FRANCE - DECEMBER 04: For four nights over 70 light installations will create a magical atmosphere in the streets, squares and parks all over the city and millions of visitors both French and from abroad will enjoy the friendly and joyful spirit of this unique event on December 4, 2014 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Bruno Vigneron/Getty Images)

Natural sites in France

La Chaîne of the Puys (Puy-de-Dôme): chain of 80 volcanos listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vichy (Allier): a spa resort listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Poitevin Marsh (Vendée, Deux-Sèvres, Charente-Maritime): area of marshland nicknamed The Green Venice, where you can take a boat through meadows and woodlands. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 2 June .

Pink Granite Coast (Côtes d’Armor): coastline with pink rock formations more than 3,000 years old, and home to the Castle of Costaérès.

Les Abers (Finistère): picture-perfect fjords in Brittany. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 June .

Paimpon in the forest of Brocéliande (Ille-et-Vilaine): famous for its myths and legends since the Medieval Ages. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Loire Estuary (Loire-Atlantique): preserved wetlands.

Salt marshes of Guérande (Loire-Atlantique): an area spanning 50 km2 that has produced salt for thousands of years.

Cliffs of Étretat (Seine-Maritime): iconic site of Normandy with the famous Porte d’Aval, a natural arch made by the sea, on the white chalk coastline. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 5 July .

Verdon Gorge (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Var): a river canyon 25km in length with 700m cliffs.

Calanques national park (Bouches-du-Rhône): a series of creeks along the Mediterranean coastline that is lined with hiking trails between Marseille and Cassis. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Mont-Blanc (Haute-Savoie): the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe (4,805m) and Aiguille du midi (3,842m), that is reachable by cable car. Mont-Blanc is located at the edge of Chamonix city, host of Chamonix 1924 , the first Winter Olympic Games in history. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 June .

Montagne Sainte-Victoire (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic mountain made famous by the painter Paul Cézanne. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Parc naturel régional du Luberon (Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence): mediterranean mountain with multiple picturesque villages.

Gorges de l’Ardèche (Ardèche): a 30-kilometre canyon with limestone cliffs overlooking the Ardèche river.

Port-Cros national park (Var): a natural site made up of several islands off the Mediterranean coast of Hyères. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 May .

Scandola Nature Reserve (Corse-du-Sud): an iconic marina home to exceptional biodiversity and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 14 May .

Pic du Midi de Bigorre (Hautes-Pyrénées): a mountain in the French Pyrenees, famous for its observatory. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 May .

Cirque de Gavarnie (Hautes-Pyrénées): a picture-perfect valley in the central Pyrenees.

Gorges de l’Aveyron (Tarn-et-Garonne and Aveyron): a series of gorges registered as part of the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Parc naturel régional de Camargue (Bouches-du-Rhône): a 372,000-acre protected wetland home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including 30,000 pink flamingos. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Jura lakes (Jura): 70 lakes famed for their astonishing beauty and connected by a 93-mile road with panoramic views.

CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 25: Alpine skiers ski down a piste at La Flegere ski resort as the Mont Blanc summit is seen in the distance on February 25, 2018 near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. The French Alps are a popular destination for skiers and climbers, though they are also dangerous. Several visitors have fallen to their deaths while skiing or snowboarding off piste just in recent weeks. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

There’s more than one Notre-Dame!

Chartres Cathedral (Eure-et-Loire): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 July .

Saint-Étienne de Bourges Cathedral (Cher): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near the Chateauroux Shooting Centre at Paris 2024 .

Sainte-Croix d’Orléans Cathedral (Loiret): a 13th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 July .

Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port de Clermont-Ferrand (Puy-de-Dôme): a 12th century Romanesque basilica and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Notre-Dame de l’Assomption de Clermont Cathedral (Puy-de-Dôme): a 13th century Gothic cathedral.

Notre-Dame du Puy-en-Velay Cathedral (Haute-Loire): a 13th century Romanesque cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Abbey of Fontenay (Côte d'Or): the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey, built in the 12th century, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay (Côte d'Or): a Romanesque and Gothic basilica erected in the 12th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de La Charité-sur-Loire Priory (Yonne): 11th century Romanesque priory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre Cathedral (Yonne): 16th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral (Bas-Rhin): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral (Marne): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 June .

Notre-Dame d'Amiens Cathedral (Somme): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 4 July .

Palais des Papes of Avignon (Vaucluse): a Middle Age Gothic palace where the Pope lived in the 14th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 June .

Notre-Dame-de-La-Garde Cathedral (Bouches-du-Rhône): a cathedral overlooking the city of Marseille – where the Marseille stadium and Marina , two Olympic venues, are located – that is nicknamed ‘La Bonne Mère’.

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17 Cities To Visit As A Day Trip From Paris

Travelers can make Paris their home base while exploring these 17 cities across Western Europe on day trips by train.

Read update

Known as the City of Light, Paris attracts over 30 million travelers to its magical streets each year. As the capital of France and home to the famous Eiffel Tower, Paris is a quintessential stop on any Europe trip, but it’s not the only city in the region worth visiting. Paris can be the perfect home base for getting to know other fascinating cities, both in France and in neighboring countries in Europe - particularly as train travel to and from Paris is simple and easily available. These cities to visit from Paris are ideal for day trips for those who are short on time but wish to experience more of Western Europe during their stay.

UPDATE: 2023/09/29 17:17 EST BY REENA JAIN

There are many excellent French cities to visit near Paris, each with its own history, culture, and cuisine. We've added two additional best cities to visit from Paris that are only a short drive away and provide a variety of fascinating experiences as well as a fun way to discover France.

17 Versailles, France

For anyone looking for a nearby French location for a day trip from Paris, Versailles is certainly the best choice. It is around a 20-minute train ride from Paris. This World Heritage Site has many historical landmarks, including the Palace of Versailles, as well as fun things to do and discover, making it a fantastic French vacation spot . The city is also a foodie's paradise, where one can gorge on exquisite locally-grown delicacies and royal specialties. It is a gorgeous French suburb with a classy, endearing, and relaxed appeal. It has some of the most opulent European brand stores for shopaholics as well.

• Distance by train: 20 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Full-Day Electric Bike Tour from Paris to Versailles
• Duration: 9 hours
• Cost: From $166.67 USD per adult

Book this tour

16 Provins, France

Provins is just 55 miles to the southwest of Paris and has direct trains from Paris that take just 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it one of the best day trips from Paris. Although a small medieval city, Provins is rich in French history and charm and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site! The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Tithe Barn, the Priory, and the ancient city walls. The 11th-century Eglise Saint-Ayoul, which has a number of artifacts and an attractive sanctuary, is Provins' most notable church. The city's renowned annual Medieval Festival, the biggest event of its kind in France, is another major attraction that attracts a multitude of tourists.

• Distance by train: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Provins - Medieval City Tour - Private Trip
• Duration: 7 hours
• Cost: From $525.80 USD per adult

15 London, England

For those looking for day trips from Paris to other countries, a popular itinerary is a roundtrip between the two iconic European capitals, Paris and London. Despite being separated by the ocean, England and France's respective capitals are conveniently linked by Eurostar trains that transport passengers between the two capitals in just over 2 hours . There are multiple departures from each city daily, making it easy to plan a single day in London before hopping on the train to return to Paris in the evening. London is a vast city, and it’s impossible to see all it offers in one day. In a single day, travelers can hit some highlights, such as visiting Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.

• Distance by train: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise
• Duration: 1 hour to 3 hours 20 minutes
• Cost: From $44.67 USD per adult

14 Brussels, Belgium

Paris to Belgium day trip is another option that entices travelers looking for unique experiences. It only takes 1 hour and 22 minutes by train from Paris to Brussels, leaving plenty of time to explore Belgium’s capital city and relax at a coffee shop like a local . Besides being the capital of Belgium, Brussels is also the administrative capital of the European Union, making it a worthwhile stop on any European tour . Visit the Grand Place market square or the Brussels Atomium before settling down at a restaurant for some Belgian waffles or Moules Frites.

• Distance by train: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour
• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Cost: From $52.46 USD per adult

13 Bordeaux, France

For travelers who want to see more of France, taking a day trip to Bordeaux in the country's southwest is a wonderful option. Bordeaux is a port city that is well known for its surrounding wine regions, so spending a day touring vineyards is the perfect way to appreciate this part of France. After Paris, Bordeaux is the city with the most registered historical monuments in France and is renowned for its architecture and cultural scene.

• Distance by train: 2 hours
• Recommended Tour: Prestige Commented Cruise with Glass of Wine and Canelé in
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost: From $19.94 USD per adult

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12 amsterdam, netherlands.

Amsterdam is another quintessential destination for backpackers traveling Europe, but for those who are tight on time, it’s possible to spend just a day here when visiting Paris. It’s a slightly longer train journey than other cities near Paris, taking approximately 3 hours to reach Amsterdam. Fortunately, Amsterdam is an extremely walkable city, so once you arrive in the city center, you can easily join a free walking tour, shop in Negen Straatjes, promenade in the stylish Jordaan neighborhood, or rent a bicycle and explore the Dutch capital.

• Distance by train: 3 hours
• Recommended Tour: Amsterdam Red Light District and Coffee Shop Private Tour
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: From $89.19 USD per adult

11 Lille, France

Lille is a city in Northern France, close to the Belgian border. It has a quaint old town center called Vieux Lille, with cobbled pedestrian streets, brick homes, and breathtaking architecture. Visiting Lille from Paris offers travelers a chance to see a different side of the country and appreciate the rich cultural history of France.

• Distance by train: 1 hour
• Recommended Tour: Lille City Sightseeing Tour
• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cost: From $14.69 USD per adult

10 Strasbourg, France

A day trip to Strasbourg from Paris offers yet another chance to experience a unique side of France, different from that of Lille or Bordeaux. Strasbourg is located in the Northeast of the country, close to the German border. It’s a beautiful city with canals, incredible architecture, and some of the best cuisine and booze in France. Travelers can spend a full day exploring this cultural hub and return to accommodation in Paris by nightfall.

• Distance by train: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Recommended Tour: 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: From $57.71 USD per adult

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9 rotterdam, netherlands.

Travelers who want to experience Dutch culture on their trip to Paris but don’t have time for the journey into Amsterdam can take a shorter day trip to Rotterdam. Rotterdam, Netherlands, is located south of Amsterdam in the province of South Holland, and it's known as the "Gateway to Europe." It’s a historic city, dating back to the 1200s, yet it is a modern and lively city. Thanks to Erasmus University, it has a significant population of young people, with a vibrant bar and nightlife culture.

• Distance by train: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Rotterdam in half a day: All-inclusive, Authentic private Tour of Rotterdam
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Cost: From $124.95 USD per adult

8 Lyon, France

Lyon is an often overlooked destination by travelers despite being one of the largest cities in France - and considered the gastronomical capital of the country. Located in the central-eastern part of France, Lyon was the Capital of the Gauls during the Roman Empire and an important center during the Renaissance, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are various landmarks and historical monuments in the city, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Renaissance streets of the Vieux Lyon (the old city). Lyon is easy to access from Paris by train.

• Recommended Tour: Lyon Old Town Walking Guided Food Tour
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: From $68.20 USD per adult

7 Basel, Switzerland

Travelers can check another country off their bucket lists by visiting Switzerland as a day trip from Paris. Basel, Switzerland, is a city close to French and German borders on the Rhine River. It has historical buildings but a fresh, dynamic art scene and plenty of museums to explore. Paris to Basel takes approximately 3 hours by train each way, so it’s a good idea to book an early morning departure to maximize time in Basel. The city is the oldest university town in Switzerland and features a large market square that travelers will love.

• Recommended Tour: Basel’s Heritage with a local specialty Private Tour
• Cost: From $128.79 USD per adult

6 Saarbrücken, Germany

In a couple of hours by train, travelers can cross over from Paris, France, into Germany by visiting the town of Saarbrücken. Saarbrücken is the capital city of the German state of Saarland and is an international hub of culture, sitting at the crossroads of France, Germany, and Luxembourg. Travelers can visit the Ludwigskirche, an impressive baroque-style church, or do some shopping at Europa Galerie before enjoying some of the region’s unique cuisine.

• Recommended Tour: Saarbrücken city walk with a professional guide
• Cost: From $223.95 USD per group (up to 15)

5 Mont-Saint-Michel, France

Mont-Saint-Michel is a small island village about one kilometer off the coast of Normandy. Cutting an impressive silhouette, the small island houses Saint Michel Abbey, a towering medieval fortress that was used as a prison for centuries during the Ancien Régime . Mont-Saint-Michel is a historical hub with monumental landmarks and a lot of things to do, surrounded by charming shops, stores, and cafés, making for a perfect day trip from Paris.

• Distance by train: 4 hours
• Recommended Tour: Private Mont-Saint-Michel Tour From Paris by Luxury Vehicle
• Duration: 13 hours
• Cost: From $734.47 USD per adult

Related: France's Most Medieval Towns Are Ready To Take You Back In Time

4 Bruges, Belgium

Known as the "Venice of the North," Belgium's Bruges makes for a charming day trip from Paris . One of the cities in Europe with the most well-preserved Medieval architecture, Bruges' historical center (which is still the city center) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In a day, travelers can see the Belfry of Bruges, join a walking tour , hop into some cities' fascinating museums, and sit down at the colorful, historic central plaza to enjoy some superb Belgian waffles.

• Distance by train: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Recommended Tour: Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges
• Cost: From $86.56 USD per adult

3 Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley is the perfect day trip from Paris for history buffs. The architecture here is impressive, so it's a great idea to take a tour of Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise to see it all in a single day . A tour guide provides insight into the history and building of these beautiful structures, plus the tour includes a wine tasting. The Loire Valley is France's third-biggest wine-producing region and the biggest for AOC-based white wine.

• Distance by train: ~1.5 hours
• Recommended Tour: Day Tour of Châteaux of Chenonceau, Chambord & Caves Ambacia
• Cost: From $197.95 USD per adult

2 Champagne, France

Champagne, France, is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, and it's easy to reach from Paris. Known for producing the world-famous sparkling wine, Champagne, this region demands travelers to book at least a half-day tour of vineyards and wineries to properly appreciate its magic. Since the train journey from Paris is only an hour each way, travelers have the entire rest of the day to take advantage of full-day excursions to visit some of the region's top Champagne producers.

• Recommended Tour: Small-Group, Full-Day Tour, Visit 3 Champagne Producers
• Duration: 8 hours
• Cost: From $240.76 USD per adult

1 Giverny, France

Perhaps best known as the original location of Claude Monet's water lily garden, Giverny is a small commune in Normandy that retains all the charm and artistic sensitivity that will enchant any traveler. Visiting Monet's House and Gardens in Giverny is like being transported into a painting, a spectacle in the spring. An impressionist hub back in the day, it's also worth visiting Giverny's Impressionist Museum and taking a stroll through the scenic paths in the town. Visitors can dine at a café or the historical and beautiful Hotel Baudy before hopping on a train back to Paris.

• Recommended Tour: Monet's House and Garden & Giverny Village
• Cost: From $251.82 USD per adult

Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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The New York Sun

A new book sounds alarm on ‘transmania,’ but some french don’t want you to hear (or see) it.

Move over, J.K. Rowling, now the debate over transgender ideology is the rage — literally — at Paris.

France fancies itself a great literary capital, but attempts to quash a new book that takes on transgender ideology are upending that notion. The socialist deputy mayor of Paris, Emmanuel Grégoire, has in his sights a book called “Transmania” — and wants the posters advertising it pulled from their locations across the French capital. 

It is the latest controversy over what some critics call militant transgender politics, seen most recently in Scotland, where the passage of a new law could make it a criminal offense to “misgender” someone online. The most high-profile critic of that law is author J.K. Rowling.

The authors of “Transmania” are two French feminists, Dora Moutot and Marguerite Stern, who have assailed transgenderism as “an ideology that hinges on propounding as fact that sex does not matter and that what counts is gender, that is to say the societal label.”

The authors have gone even further, calling transgenderism “one of the biggest conceptual heists of the century” — hence the provocative title, “Transmania.” That posters for the book started popping up around Paris was enough for a traditionally left-leaning city hall to intercede. 

It is unlikely that the deputy mayor would have taken his actions without the sanction of the long-serving socialist mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo. It was, though, Mr. Grégoire who took to X to say, “Transphobia is a crime. … Paris is not the showcase of this crass hatred. I am going to contact JCDecaux to request the withdrawal of this advertising.”

He did. JCDecaux, a French multinational corporation, is the world’s biggest maker of billboards. It is a name especially familiar to Parisians because it appears at the bottom of virtually every bus-stop billboard and other outdoor advertising spots. On Wednesday, the French newspaper Le Parisien reported that the company had started removing the offending (to some) posters, and news site Marianne reported that the company “apologizes to those who the posters may have offended.”

As to what happens when censorship starts seeping into what is supposedly one of the world’s most enlightened societies, that book has yet to be written. Mr. Grégoire reportedly took exception to the advertising copy that read in part, “When transgender ideology infiltrates all spheres of society.” That for him was more “shocking” than the book itself, which one can only presume is not at the top of his reading list.

The French newspaper Sunday Journal reported that some “Internet users” had complained to city hall about the advertisement, though precisely how many offended Parisians it takes to ruffle the feathers of a French bureaucrat was not clear. Also not clear was how many Parisians the posters did not offend.

If, in any event, transphobia is indeed a crime in France, as the books’ authors maintain, that puts it in the same arena as Scotland, which for the moment is still ground zero in this episode of the culture wars. These tussles are seemingly unending, with Ms. Rowling having won, after a fashion, the latest round at Edinburgh. The iconic author has described transgender women as men in online posts, but police deemed the comments non-criminal .

One of the two authors of the French book, Ms. Stern, challenged the deputy mayor with this riposte on X: “You are not going to have anything banned at all, Emmanuel Grégoire. You will manage your frustration like a grown-up and wait for it to pass.”

Ms. Moutot, her co-author shared a social media post of a French woman who bemoans that “the trans sect is calling on the mayor of Paris to censor posters advertising ‘Transmania.’” That internet user, who labels herself a “non-woke feminist,” added that “Anne Hidalgo rushes to get them taken down; if only she would put as much energy into cleaning Paris and maintaining our streets.”

Mr. Grant, who has written for many major newspapers and worked in television at Paris and Tel Aviv, is now based in Athens as a staff reporter and editor of The New York Sun.

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French league delays PSG and Marseille games while both still in European competitions

The Associated Press

April 19, 2024, 12:59 PM

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PARIS (AP) — The French league has rescheduled games involving Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille next month because both sides are involved in European competitions.

PSG was set to travel to Nice, and Marseille was at Reims in the 32nd round over May 2-4.

Following a board meeting, the French league decided on Friday to move both matches to midweek on May 15.

PSG and Marseille overturned first-leg deficits to reach the Champions League and the Europa League semifinals.

PSG won at Barcelona 4-1 on Tuesday after losing the first leg 3-2 in Paris and next plays Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League semifinals. The first leg is in Germany on May 1 and the return at Parc des Princes on May 7.

Marseille recovered from losing the first leg 2-1 to beat Benfica 1-0 and knock the Portuguese side out on penalty kicks on Thursday at a jubilant Stade Velodrome.

Marseille hosts Atalanta on May 2 and goes to Bergamo for the second leg on May 9.

They have one European trophy each.

Marseille won the Champions League in 1993 — still the only French side to do so — and PSG won the now-defunct European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1996.

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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