Welcome to the Paris travel guide
Paris has several qualities, it is attractive for being a romantic destination, having the most popular postcard for photos and dreamed of by many travelers, in addition to French cuisine.
When I organized my trip to Paris, it was part of my honeymoon and I heard many people say that Parisians are not very welcoming, but I was pleasantly surprised.
I arrived on the Paris metro and only had large Euro notes, in other words, it was extremely difficult to buy a metro ticket, I tried and really couldn’t.
Behind me in the queue there was a Parisian who was touched by my difficulty, to my surprise, he helped me, then bought the ticket with his money and also gave it to me as a gift and said in English: “Welcome to Paris” . So I can consider that with this reception, I had a great impression.
Planning Your Trip
When to go
The best time to visit Paris is between April and June, with long days and pleasant weather ranging between 12°C and 24°C, months in which you can enjoy Parisian spring.
I can’t say that it’s bad in winter, as it has pros and cons.
Therefore, the pros of traveling in winter are enjoying a different climate that those who live in a tropical country cannot enjoy, having that winter culture, winter landscape, in addition to not having to wait in long queues at attractions.
So the cons are that in winter the days are shorter, which could be solved with a few more days in the itinerary.
When I talk about summer, I’m suspicious, because I love the heat. The pros of traveling in summer are the longer days, as well as not being packed with clothes walking from one place to another, as happens in winter.
The cons are the heat, which can be exaggerated and the queues that increase at the attractions, this is because, in the European summer, school holidays take place throughout Europe, as well as the United States, Brazil and we can find ourselves with a lot of queues.
I was in Paris in October, it was a little cold, I wore heavier blouses, but I confess that this didn’t affect the trip at all, we didn’t get rained on.
Then tell me in the comments of this article which period you would choose.
How to get
Paris’ main airport is Charles de Gaulle and it is possible to reach the city by transfer, taxi, train and even bus.
a) The private airport transfer service costs on average 88 Euros and you can book by clicking here.
b) It is also possible to use the city’s taxis, costing between 60 and 70 Euros.
c) If you are staying in Paris or any of its suburbs, it is possible to board the RER B which will take approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the center of Paris and from there you can catch any of the connecting RERs or metro to reach your final destination.
d) And for those who prefer a more economical trip with less comfort, you can use the Roissybus, but it stops in the Ópera neighborhood, so it’s worth it for those who stay there and walk to the hotel.
The journey time is 60 minutes and the ticket costs an average of €16.60. The Roissybus stops at terminals 1, 3, 2AC, 2D and 2EF and the final stop is at the Opera, on the corner of Scribe and Auber streets. For detailed information about this service, then Click here.
Considering that we are talking about airports, know that Paris airports have free Wi-Fi access, so click here Stay connected at Paris-Orly Airport and Paris-CDG Airport – Paris Airport (parisaeroport.fr) for more information.
Where to Stay in Paris
Choosing a neighborhood in Paris is challenging for many, so I’ll help with some suggestions here.
First of all, you need to know that Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements and the smaller the number, the more central it will be, and the larger the number, the further away from the center.
Notice in the image below that these districts form a snail.
Leaving these 20 arrondissements, we will be on the outskirts, where it would be very far from tourist attractions and there would not be good accommodation options.
Firstly, it is important to check if there is a subway near your accommodation.
Accommodation in Paris is not the cheapest, but the important thing is to stay in safe places, I particularly look for hotels from the big chains, like Allaccor which has Ibis, Novotel, Mercure, as I know that their standard is international, the hotels are super old ones no options for me.
It is important to always check the reviews very carefully, choose hotels with an average rating above 8 and consider the number of reviewers, it needs to be a relevant number.
When searching for a hotel, check the zip code in which arrondissement it is located with the end of the zip code, as follows:
Le Bristol Paris – an Oetker Collection Hotel
112 rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, 8th arr., 75008 Paris, France
Check that the hotel is located in the 8th arrondissement and the zip code ends with the same number.
The best arrondissements for accommodation
- The best regions, although they tend to be more expensive, are the 5th and 6th arrondissements;
- 1st to 9th Arrondissements – great region for accommodation, as it is close to tourist attractions;
- 14th and 15th Arrondissements – safe and family-friendly regions, there are not many tourist attractions and prices are lower, as it is predominantly residential, they are safer and quieter regions, if you don’t mind traveling to the tourist attractions and want to be close to residential region, stay in this region.
Where not to stay in Paris
- At the airport, which is far from tourist attractions, it is not worth the trip;
- Hotels close to the metro that have a “size” in front: they are not unsafe areas, but they are further away;
- 18th, 19th and 20th arrondissements;
- Regions that are not safe: Metro Pigalle, Stalingrad, Barbès, Gare Du Nord, Gare de L’Est.
Selection Hotels located in the 5th and 6th arrondissements
- 5 Star Hotels
Hôtel Bel Ami – Daily rates for the couple average US$600.00
- 4 Star Hotels
Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris – Daily rates for the couple average US$500.00
- 3 Star Hotels
Best Western Aramis Saint Germain – Daily rates for the couple average US$300.00
Selection Hotels located between the 1st and 9th arrondissements
- Luxury Hotels
Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris – Daily rates for couples from US$2,300.00
- Chain Hotels (Ibis, Novotel, Mercure, Best Western, etc…)
Ibis Paris Grands Boulevards Opéra 9e – Daily rates for the couple average US$250.00
- Hotels with kitchenette (select the room that has the kitchen option)
Selection Hotels located in the 14th and 15th Arrondissements
Quinzerie hôtel – Daily rates for the couple average US$400.00
Considerations for choosing a hotel
It is important to make it clear that the daily value may vary, the reference values are for the month of September and the research was carried out for 2 adults.
I’ve stayed in more than one hotel that offered a kitchen in the room and it really is a great option, especially for those traveling with children.
The choice of hotel is very subjective, it ranges from the amount each traveler wants to invest to each person’s profile, many prioritize luxury, comfort and that’s not wrong and others prefer a cheap, clean and well-located hotel and that’s okay too.
What to do in Paris
Paris, the city that is a true spectacle in the eyes of those who visit it, offers a range of experiences that go far beyond its famous attractions.
In this guide, I show you iconic places and well-kept secrets of the City of Lights, with the option to make each moment even more special through exclusive tours.
The Eiffel Tower experience
There is no way to talk about Paris without mentioning the Eiffel Tower, the place most frequented by tourists. I have to say that the magnitude of the Eiffel Tower leaves us speechless, it is so beautiful, whether during the day or at night. Both experiences are valid and I would say necessary.
Considered the backbone of the Parisian skyline, the Eiffel Tower provides visitors with a spectacular aerial view of Paris. For an even more memorable experience, special tickets are available, allowing access to the upper floors by elevator or, for the more adventurous, by stairs.
Some options include gastronomic experiences in the restaurants located inside the tower, where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
The ideal option for those who are going to visit the Eiffel Tower is buy tickets in advance, whether in tourist agencies or in the own official website, This saves time in queues.
If you can’t buy in advance, you should arrive before 9am to avoid long lines.
The ideal is to arrive and go straight to the top and go down to explore the lower floors later, so you don’t have to wait in line to go up.
There are tickets for going up the stairs, but it’s worth using the elevator.
Don’t forget to have a photo session with a professional photographer near the tower, the place deserves incredible photos.
Seine River Cruise: The Soul of Paris at Your Reach
A boat trip along the River Seine is the perfect way to admire the beauty and history of Paris from a unique perspective.
The cruise I took at night on the River Seine the day I arrived in Paris was very memorable. The tower is beautiful, but at night, lit up, it is a spectacle. On the Seine River tour you can see several of Paris’s tourist attractions, it was truly incredible. Look here information about this tour.
Louvre Museum: An Encounter with History and Art
The Louvre is not only the largest art museum in the world, but also a time capsule housing works from antiquity to the 21st century.
Therefore, for art and history enthusiasts, it is possible to purchase tickets for guided tours that highlight iconic pieces such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, allowing a deeper understanding of the works on display.
The Louvre Museum, a true jewel in the heart of Paris, offers multiple entry points to its visitors.
Therefore, options include iconic access via the pyramid in the main courtyard, entry via the Carrousel du Louvre, or directly via Rue de Rivoli, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your visit.
The entrance to the main courtyard is the most crowded.Carrousel du Louvre entrance is the least busy.
The Museum is spread over five distinct levels – including the basement (Hall Napoléon), mezzanine, ground floor, first and second floors, the Louvre stands out as the grandest museum in Paris.
For a smoother experience without waiting, consider purchasing your tickets in advance, thus avoiding the usual queues at the entrances, you can guarantee your ticket with guided tour.
Be careful, as the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, see the official site the informations.
Montmartre: The Quarter of Artists and Dreamers
Exploring Montmartre is diving into the bohemian heart of Paris, where artists like Picasso and Van Gogh found inspiration.
This charming neighborhood offers guided walking tours that reveal its secrets, artists’ ateliers and the stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
Purchasing tickets in advance for these tours guarantees an immersion in Montmartre’s rich cultural tapestry.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Standing before Notre-Dame, I understood the true meaning of resilience, even after the fire that threatened its structure, this magnificent cathedral remains a symbol of hope and renewal, therefore its towers, gargoyles and rose windows tell stories of faith, art and history that echo by the island of la Cité.
The Luxembourg Gardens
Strolling through the Luxembourg Gardens was like discovering an oasis of peace amidst the urban effervescence. With its fountains, statues and the majestic Luxembourg Palace, this garden offered me a peaceful retreat, a place to reflect and admire the natural and artistic beauty that coexists in Paris.
The Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées Avenue
To walk from the Arc de Triomphe along the Champs-Élysées to Place de la Concorde is to traverse the backbone of French history. This avenue, a symbol of style, luxury and history, guided me through a Paris that celebrates its past glories while looking confidently to the future.
Rodin Museum
Visiting the Rodin Museum in Paris was an experience that went beyond simply admiring works of art; it was delving deeply into the soul of one of the most brilliant sculptors in history, Auguste Rodin.
Located in the elegant Hôtel Biron, surrounded by a serene garden that is a masterpiece in itself, the museum houses an incomparable collection that celebrates the genius and emotion captured in the forms sculpted by Rodin.
You might like the Rodin Museum Guided Tour with skip-the-line tickets.
Paris: Night Bus Tour with Audio Guide
Imagine discovering Paris in a unique way, seeing the city transform under the light of the stars. A night ride on an open-top double-decker bus offers just that: an unforgettable experience.
You’ll witness the iconic beauty of Paris lit up at night, as well as stroll past famous landmarks, all twinkling under the night sky.
Therefore, this tour is not just a trip, but a celebration of Parisian life, capturing the romance and splendor that only the City of Lights can offer.
Don’t miss the chance to see Paris from a completely different angle, immersed in the nighttime magic that enchants visitors from all over the world. Know more.
Conclusion
Paris is a city of countless facets, each promising its own magic and charm. So, when planning your visit, consider enriching your experience by purchasing special tours that offer an exclusive glimpse into the heart and soul of Paris. Therefore, pay attention to the language available on the tours you book.
Whether admiring the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower, sailing along the Seine or walking through historic streets, Paris awaits you with open arms and a story to tell around every corner.
There is the possibility of seeing all of Paris’ main attractions with the big bus: Passeios Hop- on Hop-Off.
Unique Experiences: Discover Paris beyond the obvious
Paris, with its iconic monuments and charming boulevards, is often celebrated for its undisputed classics. However, there is a way for the City of Light to shine more brightly outside the traditional tourist circuit.
Here I invite you to explore Paris beyond the obvious, immersing yourself in unique experiences that reveal the vibrant soul and hidden authenticity of this historic metropolis.
Be sure to turn your visit to Paris into a collection of unforgettable memories, woven into the rich tapestry of Parisian life.
Day Trip to Giverny
Going to Giverny made a lot of difference to my trip. The charm of visiting the place where Monet lived and seeing the gardens he was inspired by really made my experience memorable.
Is it possible to hire a guided tour or audio tour by bus of a day to reach Giverny. So stay tuned, as the house is only open from March 29th to November 1st, from 9:30am to 6pm, last entry at 5:30pm, for more information see the official website.
Palace of Versailles: A Journey into the Heart of the French Monarchy
Visiting the Palace of Versailles is taking a trip back in time to the era of opulence of the French monarchy. With the option to purchase tickets for guided tours, then visitors can explore the luxurious royal apartments, stately gardens and famous Hall of Mirrors.
Additionally, experiences are available that include tours of Marie Antoinette’s domains and the Grand Trianon.
Paris: Two-Hour Perfume Creation Workshop
Create your own personalized fragrance during a workshop in Paris and take home a 50 ml bottle of your creation. Discover the world of perfumes and Parisian refinement through a sensorial experience. Know more.
Paris: Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour with Breakfast
Enjoy a guided tour of a French bakery in Paris and learn how to bake the perfect baguette. Have a breakfast of croissants and pain au chocolat and discover the kitchen secrets of one of the best French bakers.
Paris: Belleville: 3-Hour Food Walking Tour with a Local
Discover the everyday life of Parisians through their food and drinks in the trendy Belleville neighborhood. Learn how baguettes are made and taste local products as you discover the neighborhood. Know more.
Market Visit and Cooking Class with Parisian Chef
Learn how to find fresh, local ingredients at a French market and learn how to prepare a complete meal. As well as delight in high quality food and gather tips and suggestions from your Chef. Only in English or French. Know more.
Paris: Emily’s Paris Walking Tour
Join the Emily in Paris walking tour for an exciting adventure exploring the charming streets of Paris featured in the hit TV shows. Experience expat life and the unique magic of the city.
Where to eat in Paris
Embark on a gastronomic journey through authentic Paris, a city renowned both for its haute cuisine and its charming culinary corners, where quality exceeds the value of the bill.
This guide is an invitation to discover the beating heart of Parisian gastronomy, from hidden gems offering affordable meals to the most sought-after brunches and restaurants that captivate Parisians themselves.
So we will explore not only places where value for money is king, but also those gastronomic spaces that, due to their atmosphere, their history, or simply the excellence of their dishes, have become favorites of those who call Paris home.
Get ready for a tasty journey through the streets of one of the most iconic cities in the world, where every corner holds a delicious surprise.
Best Brunches in Paris
Paris, with its unique atmosphere and unmistakable charm, is the perfect setting for a culinary tradition that has won hearts around the world: brunch.
Therefore, this meal, which combines the best of breakfast and lunch, has become a true institution in the City of Light, offering a gastronomic experience that is both a delight for the palate and a moment of respite and pleasure from the hectic Parisian life.
- Holybelly: 5 Rue Lucien Sampaix, 75010, Paris
- L’Entente: 13 rue Monsigny, 75002, Paris
- Le Cafe Blanc: 10 rue Croix des Petits Champs, 75001
- Le Break: 119 Bd Pereire, 75017, Paris
Where to eat the real French croissant
- Confeitaria Le Valentin: 35 Gal Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France
Good and cheap restaurants in Paris
- Bistro Mee (Korean cuisine): 5 Rue d’Angenteuil, 75001, Paris
- Bistrot des Victories: 6 Rue de la Vrillière, 75001, Paris
- Aloï: 7 Rue des Ciseaux, 75006, Paris
- Bouillon République: 39 Bd du Temple, 75003, Paris
Parisians’ favorite restaurants
- Le Machon d’Henri: 8 Rue Guisarde, 75006, Paris
- La boîte aux lettres: 108 Rue Lepic, 75018, Paris
- La Société: 4 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006, Paris
- Le Vin de Bellechasse: 20 Rue de Bellechasse, 75007 Paris
Bars to enjoy on Parisian nights
Paris with children
Exploring Paris with children is embarking on an enchanted adventure, where every street and monument transforms into a new magical discovery. Therefore, this city, full of history, art and culture, is also a gigantic playground for little ones.
Imagine your children’s joy when they see the imposing Eiffel Tower up close, or the excitement of exploring the treasure-filled corridors of the Louvre Museum.
Paris offers lush green spaces, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, perfect for family picnics and outdoor fun.
Without forgetting Disneyland Paris, a fantasy world that promises to delight not only children, but the whole family. So, in Paris, every day can be a new adventure, full of learning, laughter and unforgettable memories.
Disneyland Paris: The Kingdom of Magic
A few kilometers from the center of Paris, Disneyland presents itself as a universe where fantasy and magic come to life. Divided into two theme parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, it offers a variety of attractions, as well as parades and shows inspired by classic Disney characters and stories. It’s the perfect place to create magical family memories.
You can do the Same day tour with transportation.
Luxembourg Gardens: Outdoor Fun
The Luxembourg Garden is not just a haven of tranquility for adults, but an incredible playground for children.
With its famous carousel, puppet theater, and areas dedicated to children’s leisure, such as playgrounds and sand pits, it offers an ideal space for children to run, play and explore safely, while parents relax in one of the most beautiful green spaces from Paris.
Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: A Journey through Science
Located in Parc de la Villette, this is the largest science museum in Europe and offers an incredible interactive experience for curious children, as well as areas dedicated to scientific experiments, space explorations and technological innovations, as well as the planetarium and the Argonaute submarine, children They have the opportunity to learn through play, awakening their curiosity about the world around them. Then click Learn more.
Paris Aquarium: A Dive to the Bottom of the Sea
Located in the Trocadéro gardens, the Paris Aquarium is an invitation to discover marine life, as well as tanks housing more than 10,000 fish and invertebrates from around the world, including 38 sharks, the aquarium offers educational workshops and fish feeding sessions , providing an educational and fun experience for children. Ticket here.
Zoological Park in Paris
Visit the famous Paris Zoological Park and see animals big and small with this ticket. Explore the recently renovated facility that allows plenty of room for the animals to roam. Know more.
A Journey into the World of Comics
For families looking for an alternative to Disneyland, Parc Astérix, themed after the famous Astérix comics, is an excellent choice, as well as roller coasters, live shows and the chance to meet the characters of Astérix and Obelix, this park offers fun and adventure for children and adults who like a good dose of adrenaline with a historical touch. Then see one-day ticket here. Parc Astérix: Private transfer to or from Paris.
Each of these Paris tours promises not only entertainment, but also opportunities for learning and discovery for children, making the trip a rich and memorable experience for the whole family.
Free playground for children
1 Rue Antoine Vollon, 75012 Paris, France
An amusement park in Paris
Le Jardin d’Acclimatation, know more.
Bus tour
There is the possibility of seeing all of Paris’ main attractions with the big bus: Hop-on Hop-Off Tours. Depending on the child’s age it may be more convenient.
Exploring the Magic: Ultimate Guide to Disneyland Paris
Discover the heart of fantasy and adventure with this exclusive guide to Disneyland Paris, the destination where dreams come true for children and adults alike, so this special chapter is dedicated to helping you plan your visit to the most magical place in Europe, detailing from from unmissable attractions to the best accommodation options.
Enchanted Adventures: What Not to Miss
Disneyland Paris is divided into two main theme parks: Disneyland Park, home to the stunning Sleeping Beauty Castle, and Walt Disney Studios Park, so it offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of film and television.
Both parks are packed with attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to enchanting parades and live shows, promising endless fun for the whole family.
Where to Dream: Magical Accommodation
Finding the perfect place to rest after a day full of adventures is essential. Therefore, Disneyland Paris is surrounded by several themed hotels, designed to extend the magic into your dreams.
Recommended Hotels
- Disneyland Hotel: Situated at the entrance to Disneyland Park, this hotel offers unparalleled luxury and convenience, as well as exclusive encounters with Disney characters.
- Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel: A tribute to Marvel superheroes, perfect for fans of all ages.
- B&B Hotel at Disneyland Paris: For those looking for a cost-effective accommodation option, the B&B Hotel is an excellent choice. This hotel offers comfortable rooms, buffet breakfast and free transportation to Disney parks. It is a practical and economical option for visitors.
- Radisson Blu Hotel at Disneyland Paris: For a more sophisticated stay, the Radisson Blu is a great option. Located within walking distance of the Disney parks, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the adjacent golf course, as well as a gourmet restaurant, indoor pool and a free shuttle to Disneyland Paris.
Each hotel offers a unique experience, as well as exclusive benefits, such as extra magical times in the parks and encounters with Disney characters.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your stay at Disneyland Paris, consider purchasing your tickets in advance and exploring pass options that allow access to both parks. Additionally, keep an eye out for accommodation and ticket packages, which can offer excellent value for money. benefit.
Completing your visit to Disneyland Paris is a guarantee of memories that will last a lifetime, this place is not just a theme park, but a universe where magic is real and where every moment is filled with joy and fantasy.
So, plan your trip, immerse yourself in the magic and let Disneyland Paris reveal the wonderful world of charm and adventure that awaits you and your family.
Discover Paris: Unforgettable Experiences at No Cost
Paris, the city that is a poem in itself, offers a variety of experiences that go beyond costs and clichés. Therefore, this guide has been meticulously crafted to reveal how to enjoy the essence of Paris without putting a strain on your wallet.
So get ready to explore the City of Light in ways you never thought possible, all for free.
Secret Viewpoints of Paris: For a unique panoramic view, be sure to visit the terrace of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, however, this elevated point offers an incomparable view of icons such as the Opéra Garnier, the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, providing a moment of admiration and contemplation.
The Louvre for Everyone: The Louvre opens its doors for free on select dates, allowing everyone to admire iconic works such as the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. Additionally, enjoy the educational podcasts offered by Raconte-Moi Paris and the Odyssey app for an enriching cultural immersion. On July 14th (except Tuesday) and the first Friday of each month (from 6:00 pm to 9:45 pm, except in July and August) entry to the museum is free (online reservation required).
Run through the Luxembourg Gardens: Join Parisians’ favorite sport. The Jardin du Luxembourg offers a picturesque setting for running, surrounded by art and nature, as well as combining physical exercise with aesthetic appreciation in a unique and revitalizing way.
Drinking Water Fountains: With over 200 fountains, including the stylish Wallace fountains, Paris ensures no one goes thirsty. Therefore, for carbonated water lovers, special fountains are available at selected locations such as Ranelagh Gardens.
Tips for your trip to Paris
- Public Transport and Useful Applications: Tips on using public transport in Paris and applications such as Weatherchannel, Google Maps and Google Translate to facilitate navigation and communication.
- Language: If you don’t want to arrive in Paris without speaking anything in French, I recommend this French course that can help you.
Essential items for your trip
- Mandatory Travel Insurance in Europe: To travel around Europe, it is mandatory to have travel insurance to enter the Schengen Area countries, which must offer a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros for expenses, as well as medical expenses and repatriation. Therefore, this measure ensures that travelers can receive adequate medical assistance in the event of an emergency, without burdening local healthcare systems, ensuring a safe and peaceful stay on the continent. Ready to embark on your European adventure in complete safety? So click here to get your travel insurance quote right now and guarantee a peaceful and protected trip. So don’t leave it to the last minute, ensure your peace of mind and just focus on creating unforgettable memories!
- Internet chip: The internet chip will greatly facilitate communication and navigation during the trip, it is not possible to travel without a connection. So click here to find out more and use the discount coupon MARILIA15.
- Items that could make a difference in your trip: I’ve put together a list of items that could make a difference in your trip, as well as a universal adapter, even scales for your luggage. So click here and see the list of these items.
Conclusion
In short, Paris awaits you with open arms, ready to show you why it is one of my favorite destinations in the world and the epitaph of romance.
It is almost impossible to imagine a trip to Europe without including this luminous city in the itinerary, as a result, throughout this guide, I have demonstrated that Paris offers joys for everyone, regardless of age.
From the magic of Disneyland Paris that enchants young people to the cultural and historical riches that fascinate adults, there is something in Paris for every traveler.
So start planning your journey to the City of Lights today and prepare to fall in love.
Paris, with its timeless beauty and unparalleled charm, awaits you to create memories that will last a lifetime, so if you are planning your trip, don’t forget to download this free checklist clicking here.
Don’t travel without travel insurance, so get a quote here.
Search for your accommodation, then click here.
If you’re new here and don’t know who I am, then click here.
