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About Paris
Paris is one of the most rewarding cities to visit in Île-de-France. This guide covers the best hotels, attractions, restaurants and experiences in Paris.
- Capital
- Paris
- Largest city
- Paris
- Population
- 12,300,000
- Languages
- French
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Time zone
- CET/CEST (UTC+1/UTC+2)
Explore Paris by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Paris
The 29 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Louvre Museum
Palace of Versailles
Notre-Dame de Paris
Musée d'Orsay
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Paris Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Paris, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Paris
- Days 1-2Paris city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Paris
- Days 1-3Paris comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Paris, departure
Where to stay in Paris
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget €63–€135/day (~$69–$147)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range €215–€395/day (~$235–$431)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury €690–€2,400/day (~$752–$2,616)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comLe Bristol Paris
Check rates on Booking.comFour Seasons Hotel George V
Check rates on Booking.comRitz Paris
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Paris
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Septime
Le Grand Véfour
Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards
Frenchie
L'Ami Jean
Café de Flore
Getting around Paris
Paris's transport network covers Métro, RER suburban rail, SNCF Transilien, bus, tram, and river shuttle (Batobus). Tickets are purchased at station machines or the Île-de-France Mobilités app. A weekly Navigo pass (€30/~$32.69) is the best-value option for stays of 5+ days and covers all modes across zones 1–5, including CDG and Orly airports.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in EUR (€), broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €25–€60/night (~$27–$65) | €120–€220/night (~$131–$240) | €400–€1,500/night (~$436–$1,635) |
| Food (per day) | €20–€35/day (~$22–$38) | €50–€90/day (~$55–$98) | €150–€400/day (~$163–$436) |
| Transportation | €8–€15/day (~$9–$16) | €15–€25/day (~$16–$27) | €60–€200/day (~$65–$218) |
| Activities | €10–€25/day (~$11–$27) | €30–€60/day (~$33–$65) | €80–€300/day (~$87–$327) |
| Daily total | €63–€135/day (~$69–$147) | €215–€395/day (~$235–$431) | €690–€2,400/day (~$752–$2,616) |
Best time to visit Paris
Spring (April–June) brings cherry blossoms in Parc de Sceaux, gardens in full bloom, and comfortable temperatures for walking. Autumn (September–October) offers golden Fontainebleau foliage, shorter museum queues, and arguably the best restaurant energy of the year.
Essential travel tips
- Purchase a Navigo Liberté+ card (reloadable, works on all RATP/SNCF lines in zones 1–5) or weekly Navigo pass for unlimited travel
- Book the Louvre and Eiffel Tower online in advance — same-day queues can be 2+ hours
- Many national museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month
- Restaurant lunch menus (formule déjeuner) typically cost 30–50% less than dinner
Safety information
Use inside zip pockets or money belts on crowded Métro lines (especially 1, 4, 6) and at tourist sites
Keep bags in front of the body and wallets in front trouser pockets — not back pockets
Hold smartphones with both hands when checking maps near the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the Marais
Do not accept gifts, bracelets, or help from strangers near tourist attractions without requesting it
At the Eiffel Tower esplanade, be alert for groups of young people who use distraction techniques
Use only licensed taxis (G7 taxi app, or hail a cab with the 'TAXI PARISIEN' sign lit) or verified ride-share apps (Uber, Bolt)
The Gare du Nord area (particularly around the main entrance) and Châtelet-Les Halles Métro station require extra vigilance at night
The RER B train from CDG airport is safe but carry bags on your lap and be alert when doors open at Gare du Nord station
Never leave belongings unattended at outdoor cafés — bag snatching from chairs is a known tactic
Register your trip with your home country's embassy or foreign ministry for emergency notifications during extended stays
Frequently asked questions
Is Paris safe to visit in 2026?
Paris is a safe city for tourists by global standards, but elevated vigilance is warranted at major tourist sites and on the Métro due to pickpocketing. France operates a national Vigipirate counter-terrorism alert system; the level is Urgence Attentat (highest) in Île-de-France following heightened
What is the best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is April–June and September–October. Paris has a temperate oceanic climate (Köppen Cfb) with mild, wet winters and warm, occasionally humid summers. The city receives around 640 mm of rainfall distributed fairly evenly across the year, t
Do I need a visa to visit Paris?
No visa required for stays up to 90 days within 180-day period. Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond departure date. ETIAS authorization required starting 2026. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Paris?
The currency in Paris is the Euro (EUR) (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Paris?
The main language(s) spoken in Paris: French. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Paris?
The top attractions in Paris include Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Notre-Dame de Paris, and Musée d'Orsay. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.