Paris, the name itself conjures images of romance, history, and breathtaking beauty. As one of the world’s most visited cities, planning your Travel To Paris can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin with so much to see and do? I remember my first trip to Paris like it was yesterday. It was a whirlwind of iconic landmarks, charming cafes, and a feeling of magic that’s hard to describe. I was instantly captivated, strolling along the Seine, marveling at the architecture, and soaking in the Parisian atmosphere. People had warned me about crowds and unfriendly locals, but all I found was enchantment. That initial five-day trip sparked a lifelong love affair with Paris, and that’s why I’ve created this essential travel to Paris guide. To help you navigate this incredible city and experience the must-see sights and hidden gems that make Paris so unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring world-class museums, indulging in delicious pastries, or simply wandering through picturesque streets, Paris has something for every traveler. Let’s dive into planning your perfect Parisian adventure!
To help you visualize your travel to Paris, I’ve included a map with all the locations mentioned in this guide. You’ll also find a separate map of my favorite Parisian restaurants later on – because no trip to Paris is complete without experiencing its incredible food scene!
Paris isn’t just a city; it’s an experience, a feeling. It’s impossible not to be swept away by its romantic charm. Even when I brought my husband and mom for my birthday in January – yes, January in Paris! – despite the cold weather and a bit of rain, the city’s magic was undeniable. Paris truly caters to every kind of traveler. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, you’ll find it all waiting for you in Paris.
This guide is designed as an essential companion for your travel to Paris, broken down into a suggested 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time and experience a typical Parisian adventure.
Planning Your Travel to Paris: Essential Information
Getting to Paris
Your travel to Paris begins with your arrival. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the main international airport, offering excellent public transportation links to the city center. The RER B train is a direct and efficient way to reach central Paris. Alternatively, if you’re arriving from within Europe, consider the extensive high-speed train network. Paris is a major hub, with international trains often arriving at Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, or Gare de Lyon, all centrally located and well-connected to the metro system.
Navigating Paris: Transportation Options
Once you arrive for your travel to Paris, getting around the city is crucial. I wholeheartedly recommend the Paris Metro. It’s the most efficient, affordable, and less stressful option compared to taxis or driving. Paris is a sprawling city, making walking everywhere impractical if you want to see all the major sights. The Metro system is extensive, with 16 lines covering most of the city. It may seem daunting at first, but it’s surprisingly easy to navigate once you get the hang of it. A single ticket or a multi-day pass is valid for both the Metro and buses, offering flexibility in your travel to Paris. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel within zones 1-3 (covering most tourist attractions) for the duration of your stay.
Alt text: Exploring the Paris Metro system, an efficient way to travel to Paris and navigate the city, as part of a 5-day itinerary.
Best Time to Travel to Paris
When is the ideal time for your travel to Paris? Honestly, Paris is enchanting year-round. However, each season offers a unique experience. Winter in Paris has a special charm, especially if you want to avoid large tourist crowds. (For more tips, check out my guide on how to avoid lines while traveling.) I remember visiting Notre Dame in July and waiting in line for half an hour, whereas in January, there was no wait at all. However, spring and summer are undeniably beautiful, with blooming flowers transforming the city. Gardens like Monet’s Gardens and Versailles are especially lush and vibrant during these seasons, making them perfect for your travel to Paris during warmer months.
Budgeting for Your Trip to Paris
The cost of your travel to Paris can vary significantly depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and dining preferences. My first trip to Paris was on a very tight budget with my husband and his friend. We proved that you can experience Paris even when traveling frugally. We often opted for meals from grocery stores, enjoying picnics with baguettes, cheese, and wine – one of my most cherished Parisian memories was doing just that while watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night! While you can definitely save on food by utilizing grocery stores and boulangeries, your main expenses will likely be attractions, museums, and restaurants. Factor in entrance fees for major sights and consider your dining budget when planning your travel to Paris.
Accommodation Options for Every Budget
Choosing where to stay is a key part of planning your travel to Paris. Paris offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget and preference:
Luxury Stays:
For an unforgettable splurge during your travel to Paris, consider these top-tier hotels:
The Peninsula Hotel: This hotel is synonymous with luxury. Its opulent interiors and stunning architecture are truly breathtaking. I spent a day here and you can read my full review here.
Hotel Icone: Exquisite and detail-oriented, Hotel Icone offers a luxurious experience in a prime location. During my spring trip, I stayed here and loved its walkability to major attractions like the Opera, the Louvre, and Notre Dame. Highly recommended for a centrally located and elegant stay during your travel to Paris.
Mid-Range Comfort:
For a balance of comfort and affordability during your travel to Paris, consider options like:
Airbnb: For a more local experience, consider renting an Airbnb. When my mom visited, we stayed in a lovely duplex in Île-de-France with two bedrooms and a full kitchen, which was perfect for a comfortable and convenient stay. This area is also great for staying with friends.
Budget-Friendly Options:
Hostels: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, hostels are a fantastic option for your travel to Paris. They offer dorm-style accommodation at affordable prices and are a great way to meet fellow travelers. I’ve always felt safe in Paris hostels. Just look for hostels with good reviews and book in advance, especially during peak season. Websites like Hostelz.com are great resources for finding and comparing hostels in Paris.
5-Day Paris Itinerary: Must-See Attractions
To make the most of your travel to Paris, I’ve created a suggested 5-day itinerary, organizing attractions geographically to optimize your time and experience the best of Paris.
Travel Tip: Consider purchasing a Paris Pass if you plan to visit many museums and attractions, especially if you are short on time. It can provide access to numerous sites and often includes skip-the-line privileges, saving you valuable time during your travel to Paris.
My single most important rule for travel to Paris, and travel in general? Embrace being a tourist! Take photos, learn about the history and culture, and savor every moment. These are memories you’ll cherish forever. And who knows, maybe even try some roast pigeon – you might be surprised!
Day 1: Iconic Paris Landmarks
Begin your travel to Paris with the quintessential symbol of the city: the Eiffel Tower. Mornings are ideal for visiting the Eiffel Tower, offering stunning views with fewer crowds. However, we’ll be back later to see it sparkle at night! Arriving early is key to minimizing wait times.
Alt text: Majestic Eiffel Tower view from Trocadero, a must-see location for anyone planning travel to Paris and iconic landmark photography.
Trocadéro, across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower, provides one of the most iconic viewpoints. You can also get closer to the tower itself by walking through the Champ de Mars. Consider grabbing a bottle of wine or a pastry from a nearby vendor to enjoy with the view.
You can walk or take the Metro to the Eiffel Tower area. To ascend the tower, you can take the elevator (1st and 2nd levels €11; top €17) or stairs (1st and 2nd levels only, €7). Pro-tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip potentially long ticket lines, especially during peak season for your travel to Paris.
I even took some fun photos of the tower for my 30th birthday here – even though the weather wasn’t perfect!
Alt text: Birthday celebration in Paris with the Eiffel Tower backdrop, showcasing a memorable travel to Paris experience and iconic Parisian landmark.
Next, head to the Arc de Triomphe, another iconic Parisian monument. This imposing arch stands proudly at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, offering a magnificent view down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, one of Paris’s most famous avenues.
To reach the Arc de Triomphe safely, use the underground passage. You can explore the base of the arch and climb the 284 steps to the top. I personally think the view from the Arc de Triomphe is one of the best panoramic views of Paris.
Alt text: Panoramic view of Paris from the top of the Arc de Triomphe, highlighting iconic avenues and rooftops during travel to Paris.
If you’re feeling hungry, the Champs-Élysées offers numerous dining options, from cafes to restaurants. Even just strolling along this famous street is an experience in itself, soaking in the Parisian atmosphere during your travel to Paris.
Alt text: Strolling along the Champs-Élysées, experiencing Parisian street style and ambiance, a key activity during travel to Paris and exploring iconic avenues.
Continue to the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, two often-underestimated Parisian architectural gems. To me, the Grand Palais embodies quintessential Paris. These exquisite buildings are testaments to French artistry and design. While lines can sometimes be long, they are worth exploring inside. The Grand Palais hosts museums and exhibitions, while the Petit Palais is an art museum itself, with the building being a work of art.
From there, walk towards the Seine River to admire Pont Alexandre III, my favorite bridge in Paris. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching and taking in the Parisian scenery. You might recognize it from the movie “Midnight in Paris.” If you are looking for movie inspiration for your trip, check out my list of best movies about Europe, France, and Paris.
Alt text: Ornate Pont Alexandre III bridge over the Seine River, a picturesque landmark and popular spot for photos during travel to Paris.
Nearby, you’ll find three notable museums: Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, and Musée Rodin. If you only have time for one, I recommend the Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a former train station, it boasts an incredible collection of art from 1848-1914, complementing the Louvre’s earlier art focus.
Alt text: Interior of the Musée d’Orsay, a former train station turned art museum, showcasing Impressionist art and a unique travel to Paris cultural experience.
Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at the Musée d’Orsay. Consider joining a guided tour – we did one for a small additional fee and it greatly enhanced our experience, providing insights into the Impressionist masterpieces by Renoir, Degas, and Monet.
If museums aren’t your priority for the day, consider passing by Les Invalides, a complex of buildings in the 7th arrondissement. The Musée de l’Armée Invalides within the complex offers a fascinating look at military history and a vast collection of military artifacts. You’ll also find Napoleon’s Tomb, an impressive and historically significant site.
Wrap up your first day with a hot chocolate at the iconic Angelina’s before heading to Place de la Concorde, Paris’s largest square. Here you can see the Ferris wheel (La Grande Roue de Paris) and the Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves, all beautifully illuminated at night.
Alt text: Place de la Concorde at night, featuring the Ferris wheel and illuminated fountains, a stunning evening scene during travel to Paris.
Day 2: Churches, Islands, and Gardens
Day two of your travel to Paris starts at Notre Dame Cathedral. This iconic cathedral, with its twin towers, dominates the skyline and is a symbol of Paris.
Take time to explore the area around Notre Dame. Île de la Cité, the island where Notre Dame is located, is full of charming cafes, restaurants, and tree-lined streets. If there’s a line to enter Notre Dame, it usually moves quickly – don’t miss the chance to go inside! Arriving early, around 8 am, often means no line at all.
Alt text: Exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral, showcasing its iconic Gothic architecture and historical significance for travel to Paris.
A picturesque spot to admire the scenery near Notre Dame is Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole, a charming cafe especially beautiful in spring when wisteria blossoms profusely.
Next, it’s time for another architectural marvel: Sainte-Chapelle. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you. The interior is home to some of the most breathtaking stained glass in the world, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Alt text: Interior of Sainte-Chapelle, showcasing magnificent stained glass windows, a hidden gem for those planning travel to Paris and architectural wonders.
Île de la Cité, feels almost separate from the rest of Paris, surrounded by water, adding to its unique atmosphere during your travel to Paris.
Cross the Pont Saint-Michel bridge to reach the Left Bank and the Latin Quarter.
Wander south into the Latin Quarter, known for its student life, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the cafe-lined streets and soak in the lively ambiance.
Alt text: Exploring the Latin Quarter, known for its charming cafes and student atmosphere, a cultural experience during travel to Paris.
Continue walking to the Panthéon. Originally intended as a church to house St. Genevieve’s relics, it now serves as a state burial site for distinguished French figures like Victor Hugo, Voltaire, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. While I haven’t been inside yet, the exterior is impressive. If you are short on time, admiring it from the outside is worthwhile.
From the Panthéon, it’s a short walk to the Luxembourg Gardens. This expansive green space is perfect for relaxing after sightseeing. This area, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is a peaceful and charming part of Paris.
Alt text: Relaxing in the Luxembourg Gardens, a serene green space in Paris, offering respite during travel to Paris and city exploration.
Facing the fountain in the Luxembourg Gardens, you’ll have a great view of the Palace of Marie de’ Medici, a historical residence.
Loop back north and stop at Église Saint-Sulpice, another beautiful church located on Rue Bonaparte. The second largest church in Paris after Notre Dame, it gained fame from “The Da Vinci Code.”
Alt text: Église Saint-Sulpice, a grand church in Paris known for its architecture and appearance in “The Da Vinci Code,” a cultural landmark during travel to Paris.
Take a break on Pont des Arts, another picturesque bridge, offering views of the Seine and surrounding Parisian buildings.
Finally, prepare to visit one of the world’s greatest museums: the Louvre Museum. Crucially, purchase tickets online in advance! Be prepared for lines if you don’t. Visiting close to opening or closing time is usually best to avoid peak crowds. Note that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays when planning your travel to Paris.
Alt text: Exterior of the Louvre Museum, a world-renowned art museum in Paris, a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts during travel to Paris.
Day 3: Montmartre and Parisian Charm
Montmartre is one of the most unique and atmospheric neighborhoods in Paris. I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to truly experience it (we used Discovery Walks Tour). These tours are informative and engaging, and you simply tip your guide at the end. It’s a great way to get a local perspective and discover hidden gems during your travel to Paris.
Alt text: Exploring the charming streets of Montmartre, a unique neighborhood in Paris, a cultural immersion experience during travel to Paris.
Montmartre has a distinct charm, setting it apart from the more formal areas of central Paris. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, artists flocked here due to lower living costs and a bohemian atmosphere. A walking tour will typically last a couple of hours and reveal a different side of Paris.
Our tour started at the iconic Moulin Rouge, then proceeded to Le Mur des Je t’aime (The Wall of Love), where “I love you” is written in over 300 languages. You’ll also pass by famous cafes, including the one featured in the movie “Amélie.”
Stroll to the beautiful restaurant Le Moulin de la Galette, historically significant as the spot where Renoir painted one of his famous works.
Alt text: Le Moulin de la Galette restaurant in Montmartre, a historic and picturesque location, adding to the charm of travel to Paris and neighborhood exploration.
Walk past the Instagram-famous pink building, La Maison Rose.
Ascend to the summit of Montmartre to reach its crown jewel, Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Interestingly, many Parisians are not fond of it as it was funded by public subscription after the Franco-Prussian War as a symbol of national penance.
Alt text: Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, a prominent landmark in Paris offering panoramic views, a significant site for travel to Paris and architectural appreciation.
Step inside the Sacré-Cœur to admire its architecture and artwork.
Don’t forget to take in the panoramic view of Paris from Montmartre. You can truly appreciate the city’s density from this vantage point. The basilica’s white domes are the highest point in Paris, offering spectacular views.
Descend Montmartre via Rue des Martyrs and choose a spot for lunch. This street is known for its trendy shops and cafes, offering a variety of dining options during your travel to Paris.
Continue down towards Galeries Lafayette, one of the world’s most renowned department stores. While primarily high-end shopping, even if it’s not within your budget, it’s worth visiting the rooftop terrace for another great view of Paris. The store itself is also architecturally stunning. Galeries Lafayette offers a wide range of shops, from fashion to food. It’s especially beautiful at night when illuminated.
If you have more time and are interested in something different, consider visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery. While it might seem unusual to visit a cemetery on vacation, Père Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and the final resting place of many famous figures.
Alt text: Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, a serene and historic cemetery, home to famous gravesites and a unique experience during travel to Paris for history and culture.
It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets and a place to see fascinating memorials. Famous tombs include Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde. A unique tradition at Oscar Wilde’s tomb was to kiss it, now protected by glass.
Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
While there is endless to see in Paris itself, taking a day or half-day trip to Versailles is an absolute must during your travel to Paris. Versailles is truly one of the most opulent and magnificent palaces in the world and is even featured on my list of 25 best castles in the world.
Alt text: Exterior of the Palace of Versailles, a grand and opulent palace near Paris, an essential day trip for anyone planning travel to Paris and historical sites.
Arrive at Versailles as early as possible to beat the crowds. Important tip: The main palace is closed on Mondays and weekends can be extremely crowded.
Versailles can easily occupy a full day, so plan accordingly. You’ll want to explore the Palace, the Gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s Estate. The grounds are extensive, requiring a lot of walking, so packing lunch and comfortable shoes is recommended for your travel to Paris day trip.
The Hall of Mirrors within the Palace is breathtakingly stunning. Seeing it for the first time is an unforgettable experience. Palaces like Versailles truly surpass anything you can imagine until you are actually there. It feels like stepping directly into a fairytale.
Versailles is not just architecturally stunning; the rooms are richly furnished, and the art collection is timeless.
Alt text: The Hall of Mirrors inside the Palace of Versailles, a dazzling and opulent room, a highlight of a day trip during travel to Paris and palace exploration.
The gardens are meticulously manicured, with fountains that are often illuminated at night. If you plan to stay for the entire day, experiencing the gardens at night is a treat. Don’t miss Marie Antoinette’s pink marble Trianon Palace within the estate.
After a day immersed in royal splendor at Versailles, consider a dramatically different experience back in Paris: the Catacombs. These underground ossuaries hold the remains of over 6 million people! If you don’t spend the entire day at Versailles, the Catacombs offer a unique and somber experience for your travel to Paris.
Day 5: Gardens, Shopping, and Farewell to the Eiffel Tower
Begin your final day of travel to Paris at the Tuileries Garden. Grab breakfast from a food stand within the gardens and enjoy the fresh air and Parisian atmosphere. You might even pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers from a nearby shop.
Alt text: Tuileries Garden in Paris, a beautiful green space near the Louvre, perfect for a morning stroll during travel to Paris and city exploration.
From the Tuileries Garden, walk along Rue de Rivoli for some of the best shopping in Paris. This grand street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a quintessential Parisian shopping experience during your travel to Paris.
Next, venture to one of my favorite Parisian landmarks, the Opéra Garnier. This opera house is magnificent both inside and out. There is a ticket required to tour the interior, but the opulent décor makes it well worth a visit.
Alt text: Opéra Garnier in Paris, a stunning opera house with opulent architecture, a cultural landmark and must-see during travel to Paris.
Of course, one of the best things to do during your travel to Paris is simply wander and explore the city. Every street corner seems to tell a story, and the romantic atmosphere is palpable.
Cap off your 5-day travel to Paris by seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. It’s an absolutely magical sight, unlike anything else in the world. This is where I truly fell in love with Europe.
Alt text: Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, an iconic and romantic Parisian scene, a perfect way to end travel to Paris and create lasting memories.
Alt text: Close-up view of the Eiffel Tower lit up at night, highlighting its intricate structure and magical ambiance, a memorable part of travel to Paris.
If you have extra time during your travel to Paris, consider a half-day trip to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, about 45 minutes from Paris. Alternatively, explore more of Paris’s incredible museums: Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée Picasso, and many others.
Where to Eat in Paris: A Culinary Journey
Below is a map of the restaurants I’ll mention, to help you plan your culinary experiences during your travel to Paris:
[powr-map id=8c8e34a4_1514377902]
No travel to Paris is complete without indulging in its renowned culinary scene. Start your day like a Parisian with a Café au Lait and a croissant from a local boulangerie. Simply wandering the city and discovering cafes is part of the Parisian charm.
As a Parisian friend recently told me, “You really can’t go wrong in Paris” when it comes to food and drinks. France is celebrated for its cuisine, and Paris upholds this reputation. However, here are some of my top recommendations for your travel to Paris:
Angelina’s: Famous for its decadent hot chocolate. Rumor has it, it’s made with three different African chocolates. If the line is long, consider getting it to go.
Ladurée: If you want to try macarons, Ladurée is the place to go. While I’m not a huge macaron fan myself, Ladurée’s are exceptional.
Cafe Kitsuné: Arguably one of the most Instagrammable cafes in Paris. The coffee is delicious and beautifully presented.
Comptoir de La Gastronomie: One of the best meals I’ve ever had. Their Foie Gras Ravioli is simply divine.
La Stube: Perfect for lunch, offering savory tarts and Salmon Strudel. Their cakes are also heavenly!
Alt text: Delicious tarts and pastries at La Stube in Paris, showcasing French culinary delights and must-try food experiences during travel to Paris.
Le Grenier à Pain: For exceptional baked goods, especially bread. They have won awards for the best baguette in Paris. Try a “tradi” for a traditional baguette.
Grand Amour Hotel: Indulge in brunch at this stylish hotel with delicious food and a beautiful setting.
Aux Lyonnais: Experience traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes.
Le Consulat: A charming cafe perfect for people-watching and enjoying classic French onion soup.
Le Refuge des Fondus: A unique and fun experience – wine served in baby bottles! They also offer delicious fondue.
Alt text: Wine served in baby bottles at Le Refuge des Fondus in Paris, a fun and quirky dining experience and unique culinary adventure during travel to Paris.
Café de Flore: A classic terrace cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, ideal for brunch, breakfast, or lunch.
Paris truly offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. While this guide is comprehensive, remember that spontaneity is part of the joy of travel to Paris. Having a plan is helpful, but allow yourself to wander, get lost in the charming streets, and embrace the unexpected. I hope this detailed guide helps you plan your unforgettable travel to Paris!
If you found this guide helpful, pin it for future reference as you plan your own Parisian adventure!
Do you have a favorite place in Paris? Share it in the comments below!
