paris trip review

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Versailles Small Group Guided Tour with tranportation from Paris

Eiffel Tower Entry to 2nd Floor By Elevator and Seine Cruise

Louvre Museum Masterpieces Skip-the-Line and Small-Group Tour

Giverny and Monet's Garden Half-Day Trip from Paris

Giverny's House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip with Lunch from Paris

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Paris Trip - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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How to Spend 3 Days in Paris — Luxury Hotels, Natural Wine Spots, and Under-the-radar Museums Included

From picturesque walks to souvenir shopping, a longtime Francophile shares her ideal three-day Paris itinerary.

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

On a recent layover in Paris, I spent 15 minutes weeping outside a boulangerie, hands clutching my croissant like a stress ball as I spiraled into decision-paralysis mode. How do I make the most of 24 hours here? I asked myself, my mind racing over how to fit a week’s worth of explorations into one day. The answer ended up being: Stop stressing. Walk around. Eat the crushed croissant, and drink a glass of wine with lunch. 

Paris provides endless temptations: art and architecture, Michelin-star restaurants, unrivaled vintage shopping, fantastic hotels , and four-euro wine. There’s no way to do it all, so allowing yourself some grace to wander aimlessly — the French call it flânerie — is key to making the most of your trip. To that end, I suggest basing yourself around the incredibly walkable Marais, which marries classic Parisian architecture with hip restaurants and shops. I’d spring for the new cool-kid hideaway, Le Grand Mazarin , a maximalist hotel that boasts an indoor pool and hammam to revive you after a long day. 

Here, I’ve curated a jam-packed three-day itinerary for a quick trip to Paris , in a bid to prevent myself and everyone else from ever ruining a perfectly good croissant out of choice-anxiety again. Pick what works for you, skip what doesn’t (but not Musée Bourdelle ). Keep in mind that much of the city’s attractions and restaurants close on Sunday and/or Monday, so be sure to check their hours in advance. Whatever you do, I hope you people-watch at a cafe somewhere, lingering long enough to convince yourself you might be picking up French by osmosis. I hope you notice how the limestone avenues absorb the light, and maybe a little piece of you, too. 

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

After an overnight flight, I always start my day with my favorite French comfort food: a galette complète from Breizh Café , which has several outposts around the city that whip up some of the best buckwheat crepes in Paris. Tucking into their famous complète oignons — layers of ham and Comté cheese topped with a sunny-side up egg and onions decadently caramelized in cider from Brittany — is the warmest welcome you’ll find in the French capital.   

Walk off your breakfast with a stroll through the Marais , making your way toward beloved concept store Merci to satisfy all your souvenir needs, from stationery to expertly curated home goods, clothing, and beyond. If jet lag is setting in, grab a coffee at their Used Book Café , or down the road at the oft-Instagrammed Boot Café . 

Mosey over to Place des Vosges, the oldest square in the city. In the warmer months, it’s a lively picnic destination for locals and tourists alike. The manicured trees, stone fountains, and red brick archways surrounding the leafy square are stunning from any angle, but if you’re looking to experience the square’s royal history from a whole new perspective, consider splurging on a room at Cour des Vosges . The refined five-star hotel offers luxuriously intimate accommodations without fuss or ostentation — plus, exclusive views onto the square from the comfort of your bed. 

Hidden just beyond the square are the courtyard and gardens of the Hôtel de Sully, a quieter green space offering a wonderful respite from the bustling Rue Saint-Antoine. From there, walk down to the Seine river and cross over to Île Saint-Louis, a jewel-sized island where you can admire the elegant 17th-century architecture and stop by L’Étiquette , a beloved natural wine spot that offers takeaway bottles and wine tastings with the owner, Hervé. 

While the Notre-Dame cathedral is still under renovation (it’s set to reopen in December 2024 ), you can still admire its striking Gothic facade before walking to nearby Shakespeare and Company , the city’s famous English-language bookstore. 

Post up at the counter of L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre for a light lunch of Basque-style tapas (don’t skip the seared foie gras) and, oui , more wine. Afterward, wander around the chic side streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to Paris institutions like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, plus a bevy of art galleries and upscale shops that are better to visit here than on the over-crowded Champs-Élysées; some favorites for window shopping include Le Bon Marché (the Left Bank’s grand dame department store), the fabulously decorated Hermès flagship, and Officine Universelle Buly , which crafts spectacular candles that make for ultra-chic souvenirs. If you’re up for it, pause to people-watch at the always-bustling Bar du Marché before heading back to your hotel to rest up before dinner.

To finish the day, book a table in the bustling 11th arrondissement at Le Bistrot Paul Bert , which serves elevated comfort food — think steak frites, seafood, and epic desserts — that’s earned a devout fan base. 

Today’s the day to pack in your museum visits and sightseeing. Wake up early and grab breakfast at your hotel, or treat yourself to a top-notch coffee and croissant at Café Loustic , which has always made me feel at home. 

Walk over to the Louvre , where you should arrive 30 minutes before opening if you’re hoping to snap a selfie with the Mona Lisa. Frankly, if you only have three days, I’d skip it in favor of visiting some of the city’s other world-class museums — but be sure to at least stroll around the iconic I. M. Pei-designed glass pyramid and the historic courtyard. While you could head straight to the Tuileries Garden from here, I love to detour to the Palais-Royal Garden first, an oasis that’s home to a picture-perfect fountain rimmed by those iconic green Sénat chairs. 

Pass through the palace’s inner courtyard on your way there, where you can scramble around Daniel Buren’s famous black-and-white Colonnes de Buren installation. Just beyond the garden is Galerie Vivienne, a breathtaking 19th-century covered passage with mosaic floors, antique glass ceilings, and a delightful bookshop. When I think about some of the places that first sparked my love of Paris more than a decade ago, these are what come to mind.

Make your way back to the Tuileries Garden and on to your next museum. Impressionist lovers who are short on time should prioritize the Musée de l'Orangerie to bask in the beauty of Monet’s "Water Lilies," or plan to linger a little longer across the river at the expansive Musée d'Orsay , which is housed in a former Beaux-Arts train station.

Sculpture fans should check out the nearby Musée Rodin , or consider the worthwhile trek into Montparnasse to be blown away by the works and former studio of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle at the lesser-known Musée Bourdelle . Whichever museums you choose to visit, be sure to book your ticket in advance to avoid massive lines. 

For lunch, book the three-course tasting menu at Substance , a sleek and modern Michelin-starred restaurant in the 16th arrondissement that boasts one of the finest Champagne lists in all of Paris. It’s right around the corner from Place du Trocadéro, an elevated (but typically tourist-swarmed) plaza that offers sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

From there, hop on the metro line 6 (or in a taxi, if you prefer) to the Arc de Triomphe. The panoramic view from the top is both fantastic and incredibly crowded; I’d rather enjoy the cityscape later on with a drink in hand at Bonnie , SO/Paris hotel’s trendy terrace restaurant that’s back over in the fourth arrondissement. But first, take your time wandering the iconic Champs-Élysées, making your way toward the storied Place de la Concorde — the famous site of Marie Antoinette’s beheading by guillotine. Chances are, you might need a drink after that; duck into Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, to check out the opulent Bar Les Ambassadeurs . (Pro tip: Be sure to snap a selfie in the marble bathroom.) 

Stick around the area for dinner. Try to nab a table at the ultra-trendy Hotel Costes — reservations are hard to come by, but the red-lit atmosphere is glamorous, and the legendary DJ sets continue late into the night.

For a new perspective on the city, take yourself up the steep steps of Montmartre , Paris’ longtime artist haven. You’ll beat the crowds if you arrive early in the morning, and the best place to start is Place Dalida, where you’ll be rewarded with a bucolic view of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Climbing the cobbled slope of Rue de l’Abreuvoir is a chance to travel back in time, bearing witness to a nostalgic snapshot of what this neighborhood used to feel like. Whatever the season, this street is utterly charming — bursting with wisteria in summer and framed by red and golden leaves in autumn. Pass by the pink facade of La Maison Rose to snap some classic shots on your way up to Le Clos Montmartre, Paris’ only vineyard. (It’s privately owned, but guided tours are organized a few times per year.)

This part of the city feels like walking through a film set — it’s all steep stone steps framed by vintage street lamps, with a sprinkling of cherry-lit bistros thrown in. To that end, peek around Place du Tertre, a definitively touristy but still-charming square (if you get there ahead of the crowds, that is), which is filled with artists who will ask to paint your portrait. (Note: This area is known for pickpocketing, so keep your belongings secure.) Next, ogle the majesty of Sacré-Coeur, which offers one of the most spectacular views of Paris spread out below. 

If it’s still early enough, head over to the Musée de la Vie Romantique (Museum of Romantic Life) for a coffee and pastry at the Rose Bakery tearoom, tucked into their unsurprisingly romantic courtyard and greenhouse. But don’t spoil your appetite — you won’t want to miss the inventive small plates and next-level wine list at Mokonuts , an intimate lunch spot run by a Japanese-Lebanese couple serving up what has consistently ranked among my favorite meals in Paris. The food is fantastic, the 11th arrondissement space is unfussy, and the reservations are hard to come by (call and hope for a cancellation — it happens more often than you’d think). Order the entire menu (it’s small), including at least two desserts. Trust me. 

If it’s warm out, go lounge along Canal Saint-Martin or the banks of the Seine, where locals picnic, read, smoke, and smooch — take your pick. On colder days, round off your museum visits with a trip to the Centre Pompidou for modern art or Musée Carnavalet (housed in two fabulous mansions) to delve into the history of Paris. 

For dinner, few restaurants charm so instantly as Le Clown Bar — famous for their veal brains and sweetbreads, I choose to go for the delightfully kitschy Belle Époque clown decor. On a recent trip, I skipped the brains and went for the Japanese-inspired beef tartare — few days have passed that I haven’t thought about it. There’s an abundance of natural wine that will appeal to a range of palates, including those who think natural wine is “too funky.”  

If you’re looking for a nightcap (it’s your last night in Paris!), Little Red Door serves up exceptional and inventive cocktails around the corner.  

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Paris in One Day

If you’ve only got one day in Paris — perhaps you’re on a long layover — you’ll need to remind yourself from the beginning: You can’t do it all. I’ve nearly ruined several brief trips by thinking about all the things I should have packed in, rather than feeling present in the few that I was able to manage. 

If it’s your first time, I’d combine the itineraries for days one and two. Base yourself a bit more central to the main attractions — for a night of absolute pampering, treat yourself to a stay at Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, or Le Meurice — two luxury properties just off the Tuileries Garden. Wake up early and indulge in room service or grab a fresh croissant from a boulangerie near your hotel, and savor every second of that interaction — the greasy bag, the warm dough, the flaky mess of it all. Start at the Palais-Royal Garden and Galerie Vivienne before ducking over to see Notre-Dame. 

Unless you’re a serious art history buff, I’d avoid spending your one day inside a museum, but you should still wander around the Louvre courtyard and Tuileries Garden — Le Cafe Marly is a pricey lunch, but offers classic French dishes served with iconic views of the pyramid. 

Grab the metro over to Place du Trocadero for some Eiffel Tower time, wander the Champs-Élysées, then stop back at the hotel to freshen up before taking yourself a bit further afield for dinner — go for Bistrot des Tournelles , another excellent spot for homemade pork terrine, steak frites, chocolate mousse, and other French comforts. 

Page Light Studios/Getty Images

Paris in One Week

La chance! (What luck!) You can take your days a bit easier than the itinerary suggested here, lingering a little longer at cafes perhaps and spreading out more museum visits (you really shouldn’t miss Musée Bourdelle in this case). While you could easily spend the whole week in Paris, you might want to plan an overnight to Versailles, where you should book a royally exceptional stay at the opulent Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle , the only hotel on the palace grounds. 

If you’re visiting Paris in winter , you’ll want to make time for the festive holiday markets, while in summer, the Seine beckons with its faux beach. Whatever the season, the best thing you can do with your extra time is allow yourself to wander aimlessly, letting the city reveal its magic to you. 

Related Articles

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

Let’s be completely honest: You can either love or hate Paris. There is no in between. I’ve heard so many mixed-up reviews before visiting Paris for the first time and most of them were really negative. People told me that Paris is dirty and unsafe, and the French people are really rude.

But let me tell you something: after visiting Paris twice already, I seriously have no clue where are all this negativity is coming from! Paris is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe so don’t let others discourage you to visit!

Not convinced yet? Just go through this post and I’m sure by the time you finish you’ll be already searching for flight tickets to Paris!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Visiting Paris for the First Time

Paris is the capital city of France, located in the northern central part of the country. The city is divided by the river Seine and it also includes two islands. Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité which is the oldest part of Paris and also home to one of the most famous landmarks in France, the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Paris is home to more than 2.1 million people. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time this might surprise you, but Paris is a really diverse city when it comes to demographics.

About 80% of the population was actually born in France, the rest are immigrants mainly from Asia and Africa. The first wave of international migration started back in the 19th century and Paris has always been a popular choice amongst immigrants ever since.

Paris is one of the top dream destinations in the world so it’s no wonder that tourism is one of the main income sources of the city. Paris is not only popular among tourists but it’s also a major hub for business travel.

According to a survey by Statista , Paris received 19.1 million international overnight visitors in 2018 which makes it the second most visited city in Europe after London.

The cathedral of Notre Dame used to be the most visited tourist attraction in Paris but unfortunately since the fire in 2019 caused serious damages to the building, it’s not possible to visit it at the moment.

The other most visited attractions are the Sacre-Coeur Basilica located on the top of the Montmartre hill, the world-famous Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe, located at the end of Champs-Élysées.

The official language of Paris is French. I bet you’ve already heard stories that French people don’t really like to speak English and while this is mostly true for the rest of France, English is actually widely spoken in Paris.

So you don’t have to stress if you don’t speak French, English will do just fine. However, most of the restaurants only have French menus and everyone prefers having conversations in French so knowing a few French words or phrases always comes in handy.

Here are the most useful French phrases for travelers:

• Bonjour – Hello (used from morning until dusk)
• Bonsoir – Good evening
• Oui – Yes
• Non – No
• S’il vous plait – Please
• Merci (beaucoup) – Thank you (very much)
• Excusez-moi – Excuse me
• Au revoir – Goodbye

Currency & ATMs

Like in many other European countries, the Euro (€) is the official currency in France. You can easily find ATMs anywhere in the city and credit cards are widely accepted. However, there is usually a minimum limit for credit card payments, like €10-15, therefore it’s wise to always have some cash in your pocket as well.

France is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. That means if your country of origin is also a member of the Schengen Area you can enter France without a visa. There are many more countries that can enter visa-free for a short-term stay, like the US, UK, or Australia. You can check the full list on the Schengen Visa Info Website .

Best Time to Visit Paris

Paris is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in France and it’s a true year-round destination. Seriously, there is something magical in each and every season, like cherry blossoms in spring or the colorful leaves in autumn.

Although many people choose the summer months for their first trip to Paris, the other seasons can be a great or an even better choice, depending on your interests. In the below sections you can learn more about each season with its pros and cons so you can easily decide which one is the perfect choice for you.

During springtime (from March to May) the maximum temperature is constantly rising from 12°C (54°F) in March up to 20°C (68°F) in May. The weather is still unpredictable at the beginning of spring and light rain can occur almost any time during the season. Be prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat!

Late spring is one of the best times to visit Paris , especially because of the blossom season. The whole city will be covered with colorful flowers and green plants, so a beautiful backdrop is guaranteed!

The summer period (from June to August) is normally not so hot in Paris, the average temperature ranges around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Generally, this is the driest period of the year so with a bit of luck you won’t see any rain clouds above your head. The days are really long, the sun rises around 6 am and sets around 10 pm.

Although the weather is perfect for strolling around the city, be prepared for huge crowds. Paris is always crowded with travelers but summer is the absolute peak season for tourism. If you don’t tolerate the crowd too well, it’s best to avoid the summer months.

The autumn months (from September to November) tend to be windy and wet in general. During this period the maximum temperature gradually decreases from 21°C (70°F) in September to 11°C (52°F) in November. Make sure to pack some warm, waterproof clothes!

Despite the challenges in the weather, autumn – especially early autumn – is a really great choice, especially if you’re visiting Paris for the first time.

In early autumn locals are starting to return from their summer holidays and the tourist crowds are getting thinner and thinner. But the best thing about autumn is definitely the colorful fall foliage which makes Paris even more magical than it already is.

Paris is often called the City of Light and there is no better season to experience the sparkling city lights than winter! The days are slowly getting shorter, in the darkest period the sun only rises around 8.30 am and sets already at 5 pm which means you will have plenty of time to adore the festive lights and decoration.

If you love Christmas decorations, you’re going to love Paris during the holidays as it’s always beautifully decorated. You can also find some Christmas markets in the city – don’t forget to visit the Tuileries Garden during the holidays where you can find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

The average temperature ranges around 5-8°C (41-46°F) during the day, which makes Paris a lot warmer than other European cities.

Although Paris is really gorgeous when the whole city is covered with white snow, unfortunately, snow is not so common in winter but you can expect some rainfalls in exchange. If you are planning to visit Paris in winter, here’s a guide about  what to wear in Paris in winter .

How Much Time Do You Need to Spend in Paris

Spending one day in Paris is definitely not enough, however, if you plan your itinerary well, you can still see a big chunk of the city. And to be honest, seeing only a few of the most famous sites and experiencing a little Parisian vibe is a lot better than having nothing. So if you have only one day to spend in Paris, I’d say go for it!

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, it’s best to allow yourself at least 4 days in Paris to be able to properly explore the main sights. In 4 days you can cover most of the must-see spots, visit a few museums and taste a lot of French sweets.

Paris is packed with many amazing museums like Musée du Louvre or Musée d’Orsay so if you’re a true museum lover, 4 days in Paris would definitely not be enough for you. In this case, it’s best to stay in Paris for 5-7 days, depending on how many museums you plan to visit.

If you have some extra days in Paris, make sure to do a few day trips. Disneyland is one of the best day trips from Paris , even if you are an adult you will absolutely love it!

There are actually two different parks right next to each other: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. You can easily spend there 2-3 full days if you plan to try every ride, but both parks can be visited within a day as well.

Versailles is known as one of the most beautiful castles in Europe and it’s another famous day trip opportunity from Paris. It’s really easy to reach, it takes around 30 minutes by RER. Half a day is enough for visiting the Palace of Versailles but you can easily spend a full day there, especially if you want to visit the city of Versailles as well.

Getting Around Paris

My favorite way of getting around in a new city is by foot. I love strolling around and getting lost on the streets! I truly believe this is the absolute best way to get to know the city. Paris is a totally walkable city, most of the must-see spots are close to each other and easy to reach.

That said, Paris is a big city so if you want to make the most of your time it’s inevitable to use some other ways of transportation. That’s where public transportation comes in handy and luckily Paris has a fantastic public transportation system!

Paris has 16 different metro lines with more than 300 metro stations. That means you can reach practically everything with a metro! If this wouldn’t be enough, there are 4 tram lines and countless bus lines as well.

Of course, you can find many taxis and ride-hailing companies such as Uber around the city but with a public transportation system like this, you won’t really need them.

If you need to venture further away from the city you can use RER, which is a train network with 5 different lines. You can easily reach for example the Charles de Gaulle Airport, Versailles, and Disneyland with RER.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in France but it’s also one of the most visited ones in whole Europe. Therefore you will find a wide selection of accommodations in the city, starting from cheaper hostels and guesthouses to 5-star hotels and luxury apartments.

Are you dreaming of waking up to the view of the Eiffel Tower? Then you need to check out my posts about the best apartments in Paris with Eiffel Tower view and the best Paris hotels with Eiffel Tower view .

Paris is divided into 20 different neighborhoods, otherwise known as arrondissements. The best arrondissement to stay in Paris completely depends on what you want to do as a tourist and how much time you have in hand.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, you will probably like to stay near the Seine River (1st to 7th arrondissement), where the major tourist attractions are located.

Each neighborhood has different characteristics, below you can read about them in more detail.

Louvre (1st Arr.)

The 1st district of Paris is a real tourist heaven. You can find many of the most famous landmarks here like Musée du Louvre, Palais Royal, or Sainte Chapelle.

If you wish to stay within walking distance from them, this is totally your place! On the other hand, this is one of the most expensive districts of Paris so if you’re more of a budget traveler, it’s best to find yourself another area to stay in.

BEST HOTELS IN THE LOUVRE ARRONDISSEMENT

• Luxury: Maison Albar Hotels Le Pont-Neuf
• Mid-range: L’Empire Paris
• Budget: Hotel Residence Des Arts

Eiffel Tower (7th Arr.)

The 7th district is also one of the most touristic areas of Paris. The Eiffel tower is located in this district along with many great museums, world-class restaurants, and high-end shopping places.

If you are planning to book a place from where you can see the Iron Lady, this is the district where you will find plenty of hotels with Eiffel Tower views . Of course, all of this comes with a higher price tag as well, so it’s definitely not a good place for a budget traveler.

BEST HOTELS IN THE EIFFEL TOWER ARRONDISSEMENT

• Luxury: Hôtel Pont Royal
• Mid-range: Hôtel La Comtesse
• Budget: Hôtel Eiffel Turenne

Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arr.)

Le Marais is a really trendy and lively area in Paris. It’s not an independent district, one half of it is located in the 3rd district and the other half is in the 4th district. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time and you’re looking for great nightlife with many clubs and bars, Le Marais is the perfect choice for you!

BEST HOTELS IN LE MARAIS

• Luxury: Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa
• Mid-range: Hotel Saint-Louis Marais
• Budget: Austin’s Arts Et Metiers Hotel

Bastille (11th Arr.)

If you are a real foodie then Bastille is the best choice for you. The 11th district of Paris is packed with amazing restaurants and you can find practically everything from trendy hip cafes to expensive Michelin-star restaurants.

Bastille is located just outside the central area, therefore prices are more affordable but you can still reach the city center within minutes. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on accommodation but you still want to stay close to the central area, Bastille is the perfect choice for you.

On my first trip to Paris, I stayed in the Bastille area at Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet and absolutely loved everything about the hotel and the area as well. If you’re interested to know more about the hotel, here’s my complete review of Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet !

BEST HOTELS IN BASTILLE

• Luxury: Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet
• Mid-range: Oh la la ! Hotel Bar Paris Bastille
• Budget: Hotel Alhambra

Montmartre (18th Arr.)

The district of Montmartre is quite far from the other main attractions, however, if you want to experience the real Parisian vibe this is definitely your place!

The 18th district is full of charming cobble-stoned streets and cute multi-colored houses and the view is absolutely amazing from the top of the hill. The price of the hotels are much more reasonable so it’s also a good choice if you travel on a budget.

BEST HOTELS IN MONTMARTRE

• Luxury: Maison Souquet
• Mid-range: Mercure Paris Pigalle Sacre Coeur
• Budget: Hotel de Flore

Best Things to Do in Paris

See the iconic eiffel tower.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, seeing the Eiffel Tower must be on your itinerary. No pictures do justice to how incredible the Iron Lady is in real life! You can see it from almost everywhere in Paris and it’s really fun to search for different views and angles. Don’t forget to go back after nightfall to adore the sparkling lights dancing on the tower!

If you want to know where to find the best views of the Eiffel Tower, check out my article about the most instagrammable places in Paris which includes 9 different locations from where you can get an amazing view of the Iron Lady!

Since it is the most iconic landmark in Paris the surrounding area can get pretty crowded. Luckily Paris is not just about the Eiffel Tower and there are many other interesting places to see! You might be also interested to read a guide about sightseeing in Paris beyond the Eiffel Tower .

Explore the incredible artworks in the Louvre

To be honest with you I’m not much of a museum kind of girl and it’s really rare when I decide to actually go to a museum. But visiting the Louvre is definitely a must-do in Paris!

The whole place is extraordinary and not just the artworks, but the internal design of the museum as well. I’m really glad we decided to visit in the end, it was such a bucket list experience!

Visit at least one of the amazing city parks

Paris has many gorgeous city parks: Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin des Plantes, Le Jardin du Luxembourg, just to name a few. All parks are free to enter and every park has its own characteristic. If you need a break from city life, strolling around the beautiful gardens is definitely one of the best things to do in Paris .

Get lost on the buzzing streets of Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming and romantic districts of Paris. The area is full of cute narrow alleys, talented street artists, and amazing cafes and restaurants. I was absolutely obsessed with Montmartre, it has such a strong Parisian vibe!

You definitely need to visit the Sacré-Coeur and the Moulin Rouge but apart from that, getting lost on the buzzing streets is one of the best things you can do in Montmartre. Make sure not to miss the Sinking House of Montmartre, one of the most unique hidden gems in Paris .

Shop til you drop on Champs-Elysées

Almost every big city has its own world-famous street that is packed with high-end fashion shops, luxury boutiques, and fancy restaurants. This is the Champs-Elysées for Paris.

The avenue is 2 km (1.2 miles) long and it runs from the Place de la Concorde to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Don’t worry if you don’t have the fortune to spend, it’s still an amazing place for window-shopping and admiring the architecture.

Eat as many Parisian sweets as you can

Croissants, pain au chocolate, crepes, macarons, madeleines.. Do I have to continue or are you just as hungry as I am now? Ditch your diet for a few days while you are in Paris because these Parisian sweets are to die for! There are countless cute cafes around the city with many different desserts to try.

Try to visit as many as you can, you won’t regret it! I know it sounds like a cliché but it would be a big mistake to skip it. If this will be your first trip to Paris, you might be interested in reading a list of the common mistakes of a first-time visitor .

Planning a trip to Paris?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Paris. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Hotel Guides:

• Top 8 Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris
• Top 21 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower Views
• 23 Best Apartments & Airbnbs in Paris with Eiffel Tower View
• Stylish Parisian Stay: Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet Hotel Review

Travel Guides:

• One Day in Paris Itinerary: How to See the Best of Paris in a Day
• The Perfect Paris in 4 Days Itinerary for First Timers
• Top 25 Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
• 12 Best Day Trips from Paris You Can’t Miss
• 155 Amazing Paris Captions for Instagram (Quotes, Puns & More!)

Other Amazing Destinations in France: Alsace | French Riviera | Provence

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time”

Eiffel tower is such a nice place to explore for everyone. I am from Delhi, India and i love to read your blog everyday. I have visited 2 times to this place and every time it is the same and beautiful. Love your blog.

Thank you so much Srishti, I’m so happy that you enjoyed reading this post!

What a great guide!! I love Paris 🙂 Brianna

Thanks so much, I’m so happy that you liked it Brianna!

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Paris' monument-lined boulevards, museums, classical bistros and boutiques are enhanced by a new wave of multimedia galleries, creative wine bars, design shops and tech start-ups.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Paris. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Eiffel Tower

There are different ways to experience the Eiffel Tower, from a daytime trip or an evening ascent amid twinkling lights, to a meal in one of its…

Centre Pompidou

Home to Europe's largest collection of modern and contemporary art, Centre Pompidou has amazed and delighted visitors ever since it opened in 1977, not…

Sainte-Chapelle

Visit Sainte-Chapelle on a sunny day when Paris’ oldest, finest stained glass (1242–48) is at its dazzling best. The chapel is famous for its stained…

Musée du Louvre

It isn’t until you’re standing in the vast courtyard of the Louvre, with its glass pyramid and ornate façade, that you can truly say you’ve been to Paris.

Les Catacombes

It’s gruesome, ghoulish and downright spooky, but it never fails to captivate visitors. In 1785, the subterranean tunnels of an abandoned quarry were…

Musée Rodin

St-Germain & Les Invalides

Even if you're not an art lover, it is worth visiting this high-profile art museum to lose yourself in its romantic gardens.

Jardin du Luxembourg

This famous inner-city oasis of formal terraces, chestnut groves and lush lawns has a special place in Parisians' hearts. 

Latin Quarter

Elegant and regal in equal measure, the massive neoclassical dome of the Left Bank's iconic Panthéon is an icon of the Parisian skyline. Louis XV…

Top picks from our travel experts

16 top local tips on what to do in paris.

Musée d’Orsay

Musée d’Orsay may not be quite as famous as the Louvre—though it’s located a mere 10-minute walk away—but this Left Bank museum holds its own in its…

Le Grand Rex

Blockbuster screenings and concerts aside, this 1932 art deco cinematic icon runs 50-minute behind-the-scenes tours (English soundtracks available) during…

Le Printemps

Famous department store Le Printemps encompasses Le Printemps de la Mode, for women’s fashion; Le Printemps de la Beauté et Maison, for beauty and…

Bar Hemingway

Black-and-white photos and memorabilia (hunting trophies, old typewriters and framed handwritten letters by the great writer) fill this snug bar inside…

Off Paris Seine

Should the idea of being gently rocked to sleep take your fancy, check in to Paris' first floating hotel. The sleek, 80m-long catamaran-design structure…

Parc des Buttes Chaumont

Montmartre & Northern Paris

Buttes Chaumont is one of the city’s largest green spaces, with landscaped slopes hiding grottoes, waterfalls, a lake and even an island topped with a…

Les Résistants

Natural oak, marble and stone blend seamlessly with a profusion of over-sized wicker lampshades and green foliage at this wildly popular, contemporary…

Musée Marmottan Monet

This museum showcases the world’s largest collection of works by impressionist painter Claude Monet (1840–1926) – about 100 – as well as paintings by…

Arc de Triomphe

If anything rivals the Eiffel Tower as the symbol of Paris, it’s this magnificent 1836 monument to Napoléon’s victory at Austerlitz (1805), which he…

Le Très Particulier

The clandestine cocktail bar of boutique Hôtel Particulier Montmartre is an entrancing spot for a summertime alfresco cocktail. Each cocktail (€10 to €16)…

Place des Vosges

Le Marais, Ménilmontant & Belleville

Inaugurated in 1612 as place Royale and thus Paris' oldest square, place des Vosges is a strikingly elegant ensemble of 36 symmetrical houses with ground…

L'Avant-Poste

'Eco-responsible' is the tasty buzzword at the second outpost of Les Résistants, in a former wig shop in the earthy 10e. Fresh, seasonal produce is…

Basilique du Sacré-Cœur

Begun in 1875 in the wake of the Franco-Prussian War and the chaos of the Paris Commune, Sacré-Cœur is a symbol of the former struggle between the…

Musée de l’Orangerie

Monet’s extraordinary cycle of eight enormous Decorations des Nymphéas (Water Lilies) occupies two huge oval rooms purpose-built in 1927 on the artist's…

Jardin du Palais Royal

The Jardin du Palais Royal is a perfect spot to sit, contemplate and picnic between boxed hedges, or to shop in the trio of beautiful arcades that frame…

As if fashionistas needed any confirmation that northern Paris' 'nouveau quartier' Clichy-Batignolles is the place to be: iconic fashion brand Sézane has…

Galeries Lafayette

Grande-dame department store Galeries Lafayette is spread across the main store (its magnificent neo-byzantine stained-glass dome dates from 1912), its…

Chez Alain Miam Miam

Weave your way through the makeshift kitchens inside Marché des Enfants Rouges to find Alain, a retired baker sporting T-shirts with attitude, whose…

Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen

Spanning nine hectares, this vast flea market was founded in 1870 and is said to be Europe’s largest. Over 2000 stalls are grouped into 15 marchés …

Place de la Concorde

Paris spreads around you, with views of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine and along the Champs-Élysées, when you stand in the city’s largest square. Its 3300…

Cire Trudon

Claude Trudon began selling candles here in 1643, and the company – which officially supplied Versailles and Napoléon with light – is now the world’s…

Marché des Enfants Rouges

Built in 1615, Paris’ oldest covered market is secreted behind an inconspicuous green metal gate. A glorious maze of 20-odd food stalls selling ready-to…

Le Perchoir Marais

Paris' original rooftop bar, run by the talented mixologists behind Le Perchoir in 11e, is a trendy sky deck languishing atop department store BHV. Seine…

Canal St-Martin

The tranquil, 4.5km-long Canal St-Martin was inaugurated in 1825 to provide a shipping link between the Seine and Paris' northeastern suburbs. Emerging…

Grande Arche de la Défense

La Défense’s landmark edifice is the marble Grande Arche, a cube-like arch built in the 1980s to house government and business offices. The arch marks the…

Le Mary Céleste

Snag a stool at the central circular bar at this eternally fashionable, brick-and-timber-floored cocktail bar or reserve one of a handful of tables online…

Opened in 2019, this hip cultural centre occupying a péniche (barge) off pont des Invalides brought an unexpected dash of coolness to an otherwise…

Le Pavillon Puebla

The folks running the hugely successful rooftop bar Le Perchoir are also behind this enchanting, self-proclaimed 'temple du bonheur' (temple of happiness)…

Jardin des Tuileries

Filled with fountains, ponds and sculptures, the formal 28-hectare Tuileries Garden, which begins just west of the Jardin du Carrousel, was laid out in…

Cimetière du Père Lachaise

Opened in 1804, Père Lachaise is the world's most visited cemetery. Its 70,000 ornate tombs of the rich and famous form a verdant, 44-hectare sculpture…

Avenue des Champs-Élysées

No trip to Paris is complete without strolling this broad, tree-shaded avenue lined with luxury shops. Named for the Elysian Fields (‘heaven’ in Greek…

Ducasse sur Seine

Launched by multi-Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, 'floating restaurant' Ducasse sur Seine sails through the city past icons such as the Louvre at…

Le Perchoir

Sunset is the best time to hit this iconic, 7th-floor bar for drinks overlooking Paris' rooftops and – on Saturday night – on-trend DJ sets. Greenery…

Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé

This striking cinema has a small exhibition devoted to the history of cinema screens silent B&W movies accompanied by a live pianist. The Pathé Foundation…

The 20 best free activities in Paris

Arènes de Lutèce

The 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre Lutetia Arena once seated 10,000 people for gladiatorial combats and other events. Found by accident in 1869 when rue…

Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie

Paris' top museum for kids has a host of hands-on exhibits for children aged two and up, the special-effects cinema La Géode, a planetarium and a retired…

Marché Mouffetard

Grocers, butchers, fishmongers and other food purveyors set their goods out on street stalls during this almost-daily market. Many stalls close from…

Parc Monceau

Marked by a neoclassical rotunda at its main bd Courcelles entrance, beautiful Parc Monceau sprawls over 8.2 lush hectares. It was laid out by Louis…

Parc de la Villette

Spanning 55 hectares, this vast city park is a cultural centre, kids playground and landscaped urban space at the intersection of two canals, the Ourcq…

Parc de Belleville

Atop a hill 128m above sea level, this lovely park unfolds over 4.5 hectares of urban greenery, with fountains, trimmed hedgerows, a gargantuan slide, a…

Cimetière du Montparnasse

This 19-hectare cemetery opened in 1824 and is Paris’ second largest after Père Lachaise. Famous residents include writer Guy de Maupassant, playwright…

Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

The permanent collection at Paris' modern-art museum displays works representative of just about every major artistic movement of the 20th and (nascent)…

Musée de la Vie Romantique

Framed by green shutters, this mansion where painter Ary Scheffer once lived sits in a cobbled courtyard at the end of a tree-shaded alley. The objects…

Promenade Plantée

The disused 19th-century Vincennes railway viaduct was reborn in 1993 as the world's first elevated park, planted with a fragrant profusion of cherry…

Musée Cernuschi

The recently renovated Cernuschi Museum comprises an excellent and rare collection of ancient Chinese art (funerary statues, bronzes, ceramics), much of…

Parc du Champ de Mars

Running southeast from the Eiffel Tower, the grassy Champ de Mars – an ideal summer picnic spot – was originally used as a parade ground for the cadets of…

Philharmonie de Paris

Silver birds flutter across the dazzling metal façade of Paris' futuristic Philharmonic, a striking piece of contemporary architecture within the Cité de…

Atelier Brancusi

Northwest of the main building of the Centre Pompidou, this reconstruction of the studio of Romanian-born sculptor Constantin Brancusi (1876–1957),…

Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris

While its interior is closed off to visitors following the devastating fire of April 2019, this masterpiece of French Gothic architecture remains the city…

Marché d’Aligre

A favourite with chefs and locals, this chaotic street market's stalls are piled with fruit, vegetables and seasonal delicacies such as truffles. Behind…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Plan your visit to Paris with these top tips on etiquette, health and safety, and know what to do if something goes wrong.

Best Neighborhoods

Paris is made up of 20 different city districts (called arrondissements), each with their own distinct charms. Get to know them with our handy guide.

While it’s hard for anyone to leave Paris, these day trips offer bucolic nature, gorgeous cathedrals and more – all only an hour or so away.

Money and Costs

With savvy planning and a bit of local know-how, you'll find a wealth of ways to enjoy Paris without blowing your budget. Here are our top tips.

Transportation

Walking is the best way to explore Paris' individual neighborhoods, but you'll need the bus, metro and RER to go further afield.

Free Things to Do

Paris is rightfully known for being expensive but there are ways to squeeze more out of your budget. Here are our favorite free things to do in Paris.

Traveling with Kids

Whether you're traveling to Paris with babies, toddlers or tweens, we can help you find the right activities to keep the whole family happy.

Discover architectural jewelry, local design, vintage finds, and tiny treasures in Paris' independent shops and markets.

Plan with a local

Experience the real France

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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We had a guided tour by Olivia who was…

We had a guided tour by Olivia who was a execellent guide. Olivia showed us the palace in a well-informed, enjoyful and historic Way. Fully recommend:)

Date of experience : May 03, 2024

Great tour also for teenagers

Qing was a wonderful storyteller who kept the attention of both myself and my 12 year old daughter for the entire tour. Her knowledge and insights made us curious to learn more. Thank you!

Date of experience : May 02, 2024

Our guide Marcella gave us a great…

Our guide Marcella gave us a great tour! No longer speaking then needed but giving all interesting information about the Eiffeltower and Paris. And looking at interests of the public in the group.

Date of experience : April 28, 2024

Great tour with Olivia

Our guide Olivia was very knowledgeable and told many amusing anecdotes about the French court. Her English is very fluent with very good pronunciation. She made our visit to Versailles a memorable and fun experience.

Date of experience : April 30, 2024

Very interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower and Paris

Marcella was our guide, super nice and took us to the Eiffel Tower. The tour is worthwhile and you learn lots of interesting facts.

outstanding tour through Versailles with Olivia

Olivia was our tour guide and gave us so much fantastic context that we wouldn’t have received if we were on our own. Highly recommended tour

Date of experience : April 26, 2024

Great tour with great guide!

We had a great time visiting Versaille today with Olivia as our guide. She was very sweet and very knowledgable. The kind of teacher you wished you had in school, who makes history really exciting and aproachable. I feel like I learned a lot today and had a fun time doing so. I'll recommend taking a guided tour as you learn much more than you would exploring the palace yourself. And I hope you'll be lucky enough to get Olivia as your guide.

Date of experience : April 19, 2024

Ask for Oliver! Versailles Private Tour

Oliver was insanely knowledgeable and gave us a great insight to Versailles Palace but also the town and all sorts of incredible knowledge of Paris. Having someone pick you up and take you there was amazing. Only suggestion is if you want to really see the gardens as well plan LOTS more time. Overall incredible. We were a family of 4 with two kids 9 and 6.

Date of experience : April 11, 2024

Amazing tour with Marcela

Marcela was our guide at the Tour Eiffel. She was very kind and patient with the group (some people were arriving late and she did her best for them to join the group in spite of their delay). She gave a very insightful explanation about the Eiffel Tour and make the visit very interesting. I can only recommend her. Thanks Marcela!

Beautiful experience!

Marcela is the best guide! She explains so well and she is so sweet!

Date of experience : May 05, 2024

Marcela was our excellent tour guide

Marcela was our tour guide. She gave us an enthousiastic welcome and a good insight in the construction of the 'tour Eiffel'. Fluently in english and spanish.. and good taking care of us through the busy crowd visiting the Eiffel site. Thx..

Date of experience : April 02, 2024

Marcela was my tourguide

Marcela was my tourguide, it was very interesting. She did a great job!

Olivia was excellent

Olivia was excellent! Very good English, clear voice, good speaking speed, knowledgeable and pleasant. Loved our tour.

Date of experience : April 17, 2024

Experiencia

The tour started on time, the guide Marcela was very kind, the information she gave us was clear, she does it in a dynamic way that attracts the interest of the entire group. 😀

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

Olivia was fantastic

Olivia was fantastic! Very much appreciated her knowledge and personality. Would most definitely book a tour with her again! Highly recommend.

Date of experience : April 18, 2024

Olivia was excellent! She explained so clear and well.

Cin was very professional and funny…

Cin was very professional and funny while illustrating the chateau. We have enjoyed the tour and came out very satisfied!

Our guide Olivia was amazing! She took us through everything with very fine and descriptive detail. She was very nice and also made some jokes along the way, would definitely recommend!

Date of experience : April 08, 2024

Michelle did an excellent job on our…

Michelle did an excellent job on our tour to Versailles. She showed us parts of Paris, and was extremely knowledgeable. Thanks Michelle!

Date of experience : April 13, 2024

Our tour was cancelled but they helped…

Our tour was cancelled but they helped us arrange another time & directed us to our river tour so we could do that instead. Eiffel Tower tour was incredible & would definitely do it at night again & use Paris Trip for future tours!

Date of experience : February 16, 2024

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Blogger’s Travel Guide to Paris: Top Things to Do in Paris

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, which at no cost to you I may earn a small commission.

Paris Travel Guide

Paris is one of my favorite cities to explore, especially when every corner looks like a postcard! There is so much to see in Paris so I narrowed down the top things to do and see in Paris in my blogger’s travel guide to Paris.

I included my favorite restaurants and places to get cocktails as well! Whether you like history or the trendiest cafe there will be something on this list for you. Let’s get into it.

Related Paris Posts: Best Paris Instagram Spots The 9 Best Eiffel Tower Photo Spots To View The Eiffel Tower 21 Best Paris Hotels With Eiffel Tower View

Where to Stay in Paris

Hotel Le Roch

This ultra-chic designed focused hotel should be on your radar! Located just steps from the Louvre, and the trendy shopping district of Rue Saint Honoré, this hotel is in a prime central location.

You’ll also get to relax in this hotel’s indoor pool and spa after a long day of touring around Paris. Read my full review of Hotel Le Roch .

Le Narcisse Blanc

Elegant and tranquil is how I describe Le Narcisse Blanc . Located in the 7th Arrondissement in Paris, you’ll get a more local vibe with plenty of restaurants and shopping nearby.

Everything about this hotel is a 5-star experience from the staff to the luxurious rooms, and the spa. Read my full review of Le Narcisse Blanc here .

Hotel Therese

This hotel offers an elegant stay with great value! Located in the coveted 1st Arrondissement in Paris, just steps from the Louvre and the Opera Garnier, you’ll be walking distance from attractions, plenty of restaurants, and shopping.

I loved the small boutique feel this hotel had and the excellent customer service! Read my full review of Hotel Therese here .

Best Things to Do in Paris

Experience the eiffel tower.

A trip to Paris is not a trip without seeing or visiting the Eiffel Tower.

There are so many ways you can experience the Eiffel Tower. A classic way is to visit the observation deck with a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Eiffel Tower views. 

The best way to experience the Eiffel Tower is to book a skip-the-line guided tour with access to the second level. 

Eiffel Tower Direct Access Guided Tour:   Experience the Eiffel Tower with a guided tour with these skip-the-line tickets ! If you have ever been to Paris during high season- you might be waiting hours to see the incredible views. So these tickets are a huge plus.

On this direct access guided tour , you’ll learn insider information about the Eiffel Tower and Paris making this a more meaningful & memorable activity. Plus you’ll see views of Montmartre and the Louvre Museum! 

Book Eiffel Tower

Read Next: Best Eiffel Tower Photo Locations

1 Hour Seine River Boat Cruise

A great way to see Paris is going on a relaxing 1-hour Seine River Boat Cruise . This budget-friendly activity , under $20 per ticket, is perfect for those who want to see Paris from a different perspective and learn more about the scenic architecture. 

Famous sights on this boat cruise include The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more. 

The ticket is valid for one month, so you can choose your date and time. 

Tip: Visit during sunset for dreamy hues & sparkling Eiffel Tower.

Book Seine River Cruise

Visit the Lourve Musuem 

Louvre Museum is home to art from ancient Egypt to the Renaissance, including Leonardo Di Vinci’s Mona Lisa! 

This is one of the most popular things to do in Paris, and the line can get pretty long. It’s best to book your tickets in advance to ensure entry!

Book Louvre Tickets

Musee D’Orsay

I would also check out the Musee d’Orsay which features French paintings and sculptures and is home to a stunning clock tower.

Hop on Hop Off Paris Bus Tour

Taking a bus tour is a great activity if this is one of your first visits to Paris. I took this tour on my first time to Paris and it helped me learn where everything in Paris was located & I was able to get off and explore where I wanted. 

On this tour , you visit every Paris Landmark including the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Notre Dame, and more.

Plus, you don’t have to depend on public transport to get around. See Paris above ground at your own pace!

Book Bus Tour

Explore Montmartre

Montmartre is one of my favorite areas in Paris because of its charm, and it’s worth an afternoon of just exploring.

Located in the 18th Arrondissement in Paris, the main attraction in the area is the Sacre Coeur .

However, be sure to walk the streets around it for hidden gems like the only wine vineyard in Paris, or the many chic cafes like  La Maison Rose and Le Consulat.

This area is also great for photography, which is why I mentioned Montmartre plenty of times in my Paris Instagram Spots post so be sure to bring your camera for charming streets and epic views of the city.

If you’d like to learn more about this neighborhood, there is a two-hour walking tour with a guide you can take for only $16 ! You can purchase tickets here .

Visit the Palais Garnier

If you don’t have time to visit Versailles just outside the city, the Palais Garnier Opera House will get your opulent fix in. Seriously, this is one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve been in.

Built in the late 1800s and made famous by the novel The Phantom of the Opera, this opera house should be on any design lovers’ itinerary. You can purchase tickets in advance for $13! 

See a Paris Cabaret Show 

Moulin Rouge: 

The most famous Cabaret in Paris is the Moulin Rouge made up of 60 artists performing the “Féerie” show. This show can be sold out months in advance, so booking an advance ticket is a great idea to ensure a seat! 

Moulin Rouge Tickets

Crazy Horse: 

Remember the Beyonce “Partition” music video? Well, the whole video was inspired and filmed in Crazy Horse Cabaret in Paris. Crazy Horse is a famous adult Parisian Cabaret. Dancers are nearly nude but it’s tastefully executed. The use of mirrors and lighting make it visually interesting, and a fun night out!

It is a truly unique and memorable activity to add to your itinerary.

Crazy Horse Caberet

Drink Wine on the Seine

Drinking Wine on the Seine is one of my favorite Parisian Activities. Yes, you can legally drink wine in the open in Paris. I wish this rule applied in the USA!

So grab a bottle of wine and a few snacks and pick a spot along the Seine. 

Shopping in Paris

What blogger’s travel guide to Paris is complete without shopping?

There are plenty of neighborhoods to shop in Paris but my favorite shops include:

• Galleries Lafayette (Store) is a chic Parisian department store. Brands span from contemporary to designer, but I also like their Galleries Lafayette Brand for more affordable accessories. Just to see the interior is worth a stop!
• Rue Saint Honoré ( street ) if you are looking for Parisian designer boutiques like Maison Goyard, Chanel, or Dior. There are also small fragrance boutiques in this area as well including my favorite  Memo Paris .
• St. Germain ( Neighborhood ) is another area to explore for shopping boutiques, cute cafes, and charming streets. City Pharma is a must-stop for beauty products in St. Germain and is  the cheapest store in Paris to stock up on your favorite French brands like Caudalie, Nuxe, La Roche Posay, and Bioderma which are half-priced compared to the USA

Where to Eat in Paris

Pink Mamma: If you could only eat at one restaurant in Paris, I’d have to say it should be Pink Mamma. Spanning over 4 floors, this gorgeous Italian Restaurant does not disappoint.

From the decor, and service, to the food, everything was perfect! Be sure to make a reservation as well in advance, especially for dinner!

Holybelly: Looking for a healthy breakfast and lunch spot that serves breakfast all day?

You’ll have to check out Holybelly where your order of scrambled eggs won’t be judged at 3 pm.

Where to get the Best Sweets in Paris

Ladurée : No trip to Paris is without a stop in Ladurée. With plenty of locations around the city, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet tooth all day long.

Where to Have a Cocktail in Paris

Le Comptoir General:   This is how I would describe Le Comptoir General: boho chic cafe meets hipster cocktail bar separated into two large spaces with eclectic decor features.

This is a local hang-out and is worth the visit for an extensive cocktail menu, and seafood. 

Le Perchoir : This trendy rooftop bar is a true local spot. While the drinks range on the pricier side the views are worth it.

Even better if you can snag a table to capture the views. You can also spot the Eiffel Tower in the distance.

Pick a Cafe: Sometimes the best spots are just located where you need a drink.

I enjoyed sipping on wine in a cute spot “ Le Zinc ” in La Motte-Picquet.

What to Wear in Paris

Parisian style is all about minimalism. I love bringing in a bold blazer and pairing it with basic pieces like black pants, and a white tee.

Of course finish off the look with cute accessories like this coveted Gucci belt, a bright red bag, and a classic beret.

Beyond fashion, I always back these 23 travel essentials on all my trips. They make packing and traveling a breeze!

Thank you for checking out my Blogger’s Travel Guide to Paris! Please save this to your Pin Boards!

Dana Berez is a fashion and travel blogger with a focus on affordable style and outfit ideas, especially when traveling. Dana Berez has been featured on the Wall Street Journal, CNN Underscored, Apartment Therapy and more! Plus , you can also watch Dana on Youtube for fashion hauls and travel guides that has over 9 million views.

15 Comments

Lovely shots! I used to live in Paris and I visit all the time yet have never gone INSIDE the Opera. La honte! It’s going to be my first stop on my next trip 😉

Hi Natasha! I can’t believe you never been inside! I hope you get there soon- it’s so beautiful!

I loved this post! Palais Garnier is still one of my favorite places in the world! Your restaurant recommendations were amazing! I’m definitely overdue a trip to Paris!

Hi Linnea! Thank you so much for your comment. Isn’t the Palais Garnier stunning! Hope you can get back to Paris soon!

Loved it! Haven’t been to Paris for about 15 years, guess it’s time to come back. Love your photos and thanks so much for the foodie tips!

Hi Maya! Thank you for your comment- as they say “Paris is always a good idea” Hope you can get there soon!

Dana, I love your photos. Would love to know who takes them for you; it’s something I struggle with. Paris is on my list for this year, would love to go back and now I have some great spots to visit when I do.

Hi Talia! Thank you so much. My friend Alsenio takes my photos! He is such a talented photographer and I am so happy we get to travel together- although I am trying to experiment with tripod photography! Let me know if you check any of these places out!

Such a good guide, and I absolutely love the photos! It might not be the hardest place to convince me to go back to, but this certainly did the trick!

Hi Julie! I am so glad you enjoyed! I hope you get to Paris soon!

I loved Paris. You’ve shared some wonderful places to visit! I didn’t get a chance to visit Palais Garnier, but we did make it out to Versailles. Even though I couldn’t get my teens to walk any more on our final day, I did make my husband take me to the Laduree on the Champs Elysees. I couldn’t leave Paris without trying their macarons!!

Hi Amy! Thank you so much for your comment. A macaron from Laduree is a must! So glad you had the chance to try one in Paris. Make sure you get to the Palais Garnier next time on your visit.

Your photos are simply gorgeous! It makes me want to go to Paris again immediately. They’re so warm xxx Also. Nutella crepe for three euro. Yes, please.

Ah thank you! I was looking back on my Paris photos and I miss it myself! Hope we can get there soon!

Uff Nostalgia. This post brought back so many memories. Ahhhh! Missing my Paris Trip.

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Paris, France

Some call paris the city of love, but it’s actually the city of lights, currency: euro, language: french.

Paris is the capital city and the most populated city in France. It is often referred to as the City of Lights because it was one of the first cities in Europe to have electricity.  Americans will often refer to Paris as the City of Love, but most Europeans reserve that title for Venice, Italy.  Paris is a beautiful city with a rich history and is one of the top tourist destinations in the world.  While the city can be congested at times, it isn’t overly difficult to navigate the streets.  I have often heard that the French were rude, but once I got out and around the city, I found that this wasn’t the case at all.

Paris Things to Do and See

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is arguably the world’s most famous museums and houses without question the world’s most famous painting. It is also the largest and one of the most visited art museums in the world.  At more than 750,000 square feet (70,000 square meters), the museum host exhibits from all over the world from prehistoric to present day with the most famous piece being the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. 

While the size of the museum makes it pretty easy to navigate and avoid the crowds, you can expect a mob when you get to the room where the Mona Lisa is displayed.  The painting is probably smaller than you imagined and there is a barrier that prevents you from getting too close, but be patient.  As new people come in and others go out, you’ll be able to work your way to the front and get your obligatory photo op.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is probably the one landmark most associated with Paris. Standing at more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) tall, it was at one time the tallest man-made structures in the world and is still one of the most visited monuments in the world.  The lines are often long, but it is worth the wait to make the trip to the top and catch the views of the city.

You can take the elevator to the second floor and then the lift to the top.  There is also the option to take the stairs to the second floor, but be warned that it is 704 stairs to the second floor.  However, taking the stairs gives you access to the often-overlooked first floor, where you can find a restaurant and a gift shop.

Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a street in Paris known for its cafes and high-end luxury shopping. It is also known for the annual Bastille Day parade and as the ending point for the Tour de France.  It’s a great place to sit down, sip a coffee, and people watch the day away.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

This French Gothic cathedral is one of the most well-known church buildings in the world. The cathedral was completed in the 1300s and is still in use today. It is supposed to house the Crown of Thorns, a piece of the True Cross, and one of the Holy Nails.  It is also the setting for the story of the Humpback of Notre-Dame.

Paris Nightlife

Paris has a pretty decent nightlife scene. From large night clubs to smaller lounges and bars, there are venues to suit any mood.  I would have liked to see more variety in terms of music, but there are definitely good times to be had.  You can also catch plenty of shows in Paris.  Anything from an opera to cabaret, the city has got you covered.  There are also a few casinos throughout the city as well.  They aren’t the largest casinos or have a variety of games that you would find in a Las Vegas casino, but they are definitely enough to keep you entertained.

When it comes to French cuisine, my first thoughts were of sheer excitement. The rich foods, the robust flavors, the creamy ingredients, how can this not be amazing?  Maybe I set my expectations too high or didn’t find the right restaurant or dish, but I never found what I was looking for.  However, the pastries in Paris easily make up for anything I found lacking.  Add in the fact that there seemed to be a bakery on almost every corner, made for a lot of pit stops for croissants during my visits.

Paris is one of the more expensive cities in the world to visit. Some of these costs can be lowered by utilizing public transportation and avoiding hotels in some of the more touristy areas (avoiding hotels in the touristy areas also gives you a better feel for the real Paris).  And while the cost of travel to get to Paris isn’t terrible, it’s not easy to find any real deals.

Paris Safety

Paris is generally a pretty safe city to visit. The biggest problems to look out for are pickpockets and scams, especially around some of the major tourist sites.  Simple common-sense precautions can help you to avoid becoming a victim.  Make sure to be aware of your surroundings, avoid leaving your phone sitting on the table while you’re out to eat or for drinks, be leery of people that seem to be attempting to distract you, and make sure that people offering to help with your bags are actually part of the hotel staff.

Unfortunately, Paris has been the subject of a few terrorist attacks recently. This doesn’t mean that you should avoid visiting, but it does mean that you take some extra steps.  Before your visit, make sure to visit your country’s embassy or consulate website to check for any warnings or tips.  It also helps to know how to contact them in the event there is a situation during your trip.  Avoid large gatherings or demonstrations whenever possible and try to blend in with the locals to keep from making yourself an easy target.

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18 best paris tours of 2024: food, versailles & more.

Enhance your visit to the City of Love with one of these specialized tours.

The Best Paris Tours

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From the Eiffel Tower to the Moulin Rouge – plus day trips to Versailles, Normandy and beyond – there are so many things to do in Paris . To make the most of your trip, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a few locals via a guided tour. Read on to discover some of the top-rated Paris tours for a variety of interests.

Bike About Tours – Hidden Paris Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (around $49); kids 3 and younger from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3.5 hours

On this roughly 3.5-hour cycling trip, a guide takes you on back streets to both notable and lesser-known attractions throughout Paris. Along the way, guides share historical and cultural anecdotes. Sights include the Place des Vosges, Jardin des Plantes and the Paris mosque, to name a few. Reviewers love seeing an array of attractions at a leisurely pace and applaud the expertise of the guides. Bike About Tours also offers cycling excursions through Versailles.

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Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids 4-12 from $25 Duration: About 2 hours

Create your own Parisian adventure with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Double-decker, open-top buses take you to 10 stops near top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and the Grand Palais. All buses are equipped with a prerecorded audio tour in 11 different languages. Reviewers love the convenience of the bus, but some express disappointment that buses are often overcrowded.

Buses run from around 10 a.m. to about 7:30 p.m. daily and typically frequent stops every seven to 15 minutes. If you choose to ride the whole route, you'll be on the bus for two hours and 15 minutes. Ticket discounts may be available if you book online in advance. Big Bus also offers two-day passes, a night tour and combo tours that include a river cruise.

Paris Charms and Secrets

Price: From 59 euros (about $64) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

If you're a sucker for a good story, a secret passageway or a long-forgotten historical tale, the Paris Charms and Secrets tour will be right up your alley. On this roughly 12-mile tour, a guide will lead you through the city on an electric bike, stopping at some of Paris' most famous attractions and storied monuments. Hear the legends of Élysée Palace, the controversies of the Eiffel Tower and the curious past of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the unique stories.

Older children and teens are welcome to ride their own bikes if they meet the height and weight requirements; a child seat must be reserved ahead of time for younger kids (for 12 euros).

Paris By Mouth – North Marais Food Tour

Price: 130 euros (about $141) Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want an intimate look at one of Paris' most fashionable and beautiful areas, snag a spot on Paris By Mouth's North Marais Food tour. This 3.5-hour tour welcomes up to eight participants to create a more personal feel. For the first part of the tour, your guide will bring you to some of the neighborhood's most prestigious shops, which specialize in bread, cheese, pastry and charcuterie. The second part of the tour stops at a wine shop and includes a seated tasting with wine pairings. Paris By Mouth's guides are experienced food journalists, chefs and foodies – a highlight among reviewers.

The tour is recommended for adults, though children older than age 12 can join. The tour runs daily at multiple times. Paris By Mouth also hosts tours of Saint-Germain-des-Près, south Marais and the Left Bank.

Retro Tour Paris – Retro Classic

Price: From $75 Duration: 40 minutes

Hop into the vintage sidecar of an experienced motorcycle driver and cruise through the city with views of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars and more on the Retro Classic tour of Paris. Local guides will share unique stories and provide an experience worlds apart from a typical city tour. Reviewers rave about the thrill of riding in the sidecar and the local insight.

If you love your first sidecar experience, you can also opt for the company's 90-minute tours, as well as a ride through Paris after sunset (with a Champagne tasting, naturally).

Blue Fox Travel – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (around $119); kids from 95 euros (about $104) Duration: 9 hours

The Versailles estate encompasses 2,000 acres, and there's no better way to see it than on a bike with Blue Fox Travel. Spend roughly nine hours with an expert guide and a small group (up to 14 people) touring the royal grounds, including the Grand and Petit Trianon chateaus, Marie Antoinette's private domain and the grand palace with a skip-the-line pass included in your ticket. Guides tell stories of French royal history, including the conquests of the Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, the controversies surrounding Louis XV, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette. Reviewers love biking the grounds at a leisurely pace and rave about the expertise of the guides, as well as the picnic lunch with finds from one of the local farmers markets.

Tours include train tickets to and from Paris. Blue Fox Travel also guides visitors on cycling tours of Paris at night and the city's top attractions.

Secret Food Tours Paris – Montmartre

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Peruse and stroll through the Parisian dining scene like a local with Secret Food Tours. On this up to four-hour tour of one of Paris' most picturesque and lively arrondissements, dessert is first (c'est la vie!) . You'll gather chocolates and macarons from local specialty shops, followed by baguettes, cheeses, meats and crêpes – all while learning more about food and Parisian traditions from your local guide. When your bag is full, the guide will lead you to a prime picnic spot to enjoy your bounty with a few wine pairings. Reviewers love the historical tidbits and local insights, as well as the animated and entertaining tour guides.

An upgraded drinks package is available for an additional charge. Tours run daily at several different times, depending on the day. Secret Food Tours also hosts walks through other Paris neighborhoods, such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Paris Marais Bites and Sights Tour

Price: From $97 Duration: 2 hours

Wander through Paris' gorgeous Marais with a local guide and a lineup of French treats. Intrepid Urban Adventures' Bites and Sights Tour takes you through the well-preserved (and very fashionable) area of the Marais. Throughout the approximately two-hour tour, you'll hear local insights and historical tales as you admire Marais' treasured architecture. Stories are accompanied by stops in neighborhood shops for pastry and macaron samples, plus a French cheese platter and two glasses of wine. Reviewers appreciate the expertise and entertainment provided by the guides, as well as the intimate and conversational environment.

Children 5 and younger can tag along for free, as long as they sample items from their parents' plate. Paris Urban Adventures also offers tours of bohemian Paris and several private excursions.

Paris by Martin & Friends – Walking Tour

Price: 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 2.5 hours

For a truly bespoke experience with a passionate local, take a tour with Martin Muda and his friends, all residents of Paris. On the 2.5-hour walking tour, Muda or one of his tour guides will lead you to treasured spots throughout the city, with stories that give life to Paris' history and legends. Reviewers give high praise for the tour guides and their attention to detail, as well as the customization of each tour.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Children younger than 3 can join the tour for free. Inquiries can be made through the website. The company also offers walking picnic tours at night and electric bike tours.

Fat Tire Tours – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 95 euros (about $103) Duration: 8.5 hours

To see Versailles in all of its glory, take a ride with Fat Tire Tours. On this daylong tour (approximately 8.5 hours), a guide will take you through the Versailles open market to grab a picnic lunch before visiting the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the estate gardens. The tour also includes skip-the-line access to the palace and an audio guide. Riders love the bicycles and tour guides, and appreciate the sweeping views of the iconic palace and grounds.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday and all depart before 9 a.m. Kids younger than 4 are free to join the tour. Fat Tire Tours also offers a variety of biking excursions around Paris – including an "Emily in Paris"-inspired tour – and the surrounding region, as well as guided walks and Segway rides.

SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Price: Free; tips appreciated Duration: 2.5 hours

Stroll through one of Paris' most famous and charming neighborhoods with the help of SANDEMANs NEW Europe. This 2.5-hour tour will take you by the area's most photographed sights, including the Moulin Rouge and up the steps to Sacré-Coeur. You'll recognize streets featured in paintings and in cinema as guides share tales of Montmartre's famous artists, musicians and other notables, including Van Gogh and Picasso. Tourgoers appreciate the guides' expertise and recommend the tour for art history lovers.

Tours depart daily at 4 p.m. (Spanish language) and 5 p.m. (English language). Tickets are free, though tips are appreciated. If you're looking to explore more of the city, the company offers an array of other tours covering Latin Quarter, the Seine River and more.

Boutique Bike Tours – Versailles Food & Palace Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 145 euros (about $158); kids 5 and older from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 9 to 10 hours

If you're looking to escape the city, let Boutique Bike Tours take you on a ride and stroll through the gardens of Versailles. On this approximately nine- to 10-hour tour, guides lead the way through the sprawling estate before stopping for a picnic lunch with provisions purchased from the market in town. After lunch, you'll skip the line at the famous palace to explore the rooms and hallways of Versailles. Reviewers enjoy the leisurely pace, a day full of activities and informative guidance.

Tours generally depart Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; expect to leave at 8 or 9 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. The company also hosts an evening bike and boat tour of Paris.

2CVParisTour – Legendary Paris Tour

Price: From 160 euros (about $175) Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a memorable and personalized drive through Paris, allow 2CVParisTour to take you for a whirl in a Citroën 2CV, a classic French car. Take in sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais de l'Élysée ,  Église   Saint-Sulpice and more as you cruise through the Paris streets for two hours. Reviewers praise the classic car experience and entertaining guides.

Champagne can be added to the tour for an extra charge. Tours depart at multiple times daily, starting at 11 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. If you can't get enough of the vintage car experience, you can also sign up for a tour of Montmartre, one that features a picnic and others.

City Wonders – Paris Catacombs Underground Tour

Price: Adults from $119 Duration: 2 hours

City Wonders will take you on a two-hour tour of what's below Paris: a network of tunnels, crypts and tombs that are home to nearly 6 million skeletons. On this Paris Catacombs tour, you'll skip the line with a small group to explore the Port Mahon gallery, the Sacellum Crypt and Gilbert's Tomb. Throughout the tour, you'll hear historical anecdotes from insightful guides. Along with the entertaining guides, reviewers also appreciate the skip-the-line access and recommend this experience in lieu of a self-guided tour.

Ticket prices may increase during busier times of the year. Tours depart Tuesday through Sunday at several times each day. City Wonders also hosts traditional aboveground tours of the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Paris City Vision – Half Day Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens from Paris

Price: From 89 euros (about $97) Duration: About 5 hours

On this roughly five-hour tour, a guide will take you through the life of celebrated painter Claude Monet as you explore his home and garden in Giverny. His garden is what inspired some of his most prized works, including "Irises" and "Water Lilies." Reviewers value the views and insight provided by tour guides, though others warn that the company can be disorganized.

Tours generally run daily at 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The company hosts a number of other tours throughout Paris and greater France , including tours to Normandy .

Street Art Tour Paris – Murals XXL

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: About 2 hours

There's no museum pass needed to see some of the city's largest artwork with Street Art Tour's Murals XXL. An expert guide leads groups through the city to view contemporary works created by the world's most famous and talented muralists, such as Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada and Obey. Reviewers love the insider information and find the tour reveals details (and murals) often overlooked. Plus, the route is accessible for those with limited mobility.

Tours last just over two hours and run Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Discounts are available to groups of five or more. Street Art Tour Paris also offers tours in Montmartre and Belleville, among other options.

Babylon Tours – Louvre Museum + Orsay Museum Guided Combo Tour

Price: Adults from 199 euros (about $217); kids from 159 euros (about $173) Duration: 5.5 hours

View Greek sculpture and famous paintings by greats like Renoir, Monet, da Vinci and Van Gogh during this 5.5-hour tour. As you explore the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, guides will regale you with stories of art history. Plus, you'll bypass the long lines at the attractions. Travelers praise the guide's knowledge and appreciate the small groups (no more than eight people can go at once).

Tours run at 10 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. Fees include access to the museums. Babylon Tours also operates outings to the Musée de l'Orangerie, the Rodin Museum and individual outings to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay.

XL Tours – Segway Tour

Price: From 75 euros (about $82) Duration: 2 hours

During this two-hour tour, you'll glide by some of Paris' must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. You'll also ride in style on Bel & Bel Segways, which are designed to resemble the iconic Vespa scooters. Travelers say the Segways are a great way to see the city and the guides provide clear instructions.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 or 7 p.m. You may be required to book at least two riders for your tour if you book directly through the company's website. Participants must be at least 12 years old. XL Tour also runs electric bike tours through the city.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Paris
• The Best London Tours
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Paris , Europe Vacations

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The Unknown Enthusiast

Is Paris Worth Visiting? 19 Pros & Cons to Consider

Are you trying to decide if Paris is worth visiting? Read on for my full breakdown and tips for Paris!

Paris is one of the most famous and well-known cities in the world. It’s a top tourist destination for people from all over the globe, and with good reason – it’s full of history, culture, and beauty. But… is Paris worth visiting? Is it actually worth the hype?

Well, the TL;DR is that I love France and I adore Paris. It’s truly one of my favorite cities in the world.

However, many people come to Paris expecting a kind of sepia-toned, idyllic world, and are startled to realize that the Paris they had in their minds is not the Paris they are experiencing.

There’s actually a name for this surprising realization: The Paris Syndrome. While the Paris Syndrome is a clinical, rare, and extreme case of travel disappointment, the general idea of disappointment when expectation does not match reality in the City of Love is one that applies to many people.

However, I think that with realistic expectations and knowledge about the pros and cons of visiting Paris, you can be prepared for what Paris is really like and have a great vacation here!

Are you planning a trip to France  but want some help with the planning process ?  I offer custom itinerary planning for travel all throughout France !   Don’t need a full itinerary but would like some feedback on your plans and questions answered? I also do 1-hour consult calls! Use the contact form below to discuss how we can create the ultimate France itinerary to suit your travel style and preferences .

Is Paris Worth Visiting? 19 Pros and Cons to Consider

So, what are the pros and cons of visiting Paris?

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before we get into this section, I want to state that I think that many of these cons are actually stereotypes, myths, or are blown out of proportion, and just aren’t the big deal that people think they are. That said, there are legitimate concerns people have.

So, in the following sections, I’ll list pros and different perceived cons of visiting Paris, and address whether this is more of a stereotype, or whether it is an actual downside of visiting the city.

I’ll also give a lot of tips for navigating these issues!

1. PRO: Gorgeous Architecture

Okay, let’s start with my absolute favorite part of visiting – the absolutely gorgeous architecture.

Paris is known for its stunning architecture, and it definitely deserves the hype. The city was largely rebuilt in the mid-19th century under the direction of Georges-Eugène Haussmann, who created a master plan for the city design.

This plan featured wide, grand boulevards, building facades constructed of stone and with intricate details, and mandating that no building could be taller than six stories in order to maintain the picturesque skyline.

The doors in Paris are absolutely swoon-worthy.

Of course, not every spot in Paris was re-done in Haussmanian architecture (for example, the Latin Quarter).

Either way, the architecture is simply breathtaking, and in my opinion, is one of the top things that makes Paris so special. Wandering the streets and marveling at the beautiful buildings is one of the top things to do in the city.

2. CON: Is Paris Dirty ?

Sometimes people feel that it is not worth visiting Paris because they’ve heard that Paris is a dirty city.

Now, I won’t deny that there is some trash in the streets. However, this varies substantially between different areas of the city, but I’ve never found the streets to be particularly dirty.

A bigger turn-off, in my eyes, is there can be an excessive amount of graffiti in some areas. It stands out so starkly with the otherwise beautiful architecture, which tends to be more jarring for me.

I would say that overall, though, it’s about what I would expect from a big city – some spots are cleaner, some have more trash, and there are some things on the streets here and there, but I’ve rarely felt like the city is just dirty .

My Verdict: Sometimes

3. PRO: Amazing Museums

One of the best reasons to visit Paris is to visit the world class Louvre Museum , one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The Louvre features some of the world’s most famous pieces of art, including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, and Napoleon’s Coronation.

The museum is housed in an old palace, and its ceilings are practically a work of art by themselves. There is no shortage of things to see in this museum, so it’s definitely worth a visit for on anyone’s Paris itinerary .

Aside from the world-renowned Louvre Museum, there are a number of other great museums in Paris that are worth the time to visit.

The Musée d’Orsay is housed in an old railway station and contains a large collection of impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas.

The Rodin museum is dedicated to the work of Auguste Rodin and features some of his most famous sculptures, such as The Thinker and The Gates of Hell.

The Carnavalet museum is dedicated to the history of Paris and includes exhibits on everything from fashion to architecture and is a great free museum in Paris.

The Centre Pompidou is home to a large collection of modern art, including pieces by Picasso and Matisse.

And finally, the l’Orangerie museum houses a collection of impressionist paintings by Claude Monet, including his famous series Water Lilies.

All these museums are definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling to Paris!

4. Con: Are Bathrooms Hard to Find?

Public bathrooms in France are MUCH less common than they are in the United States. Often, you have to pay to use the toilets, even in restaurants or at sites like the Eiffel Tower.

There are also free public bathrooms “pods” on the street. These pods are exactly what they sound like – freestanding little rooms right on the sidewalk.

However, lines for these move very slowly (the pods run a disinfect cycle between every visitor) and they are often not very clean, and often out of order. Seriously, expect 1 in 3 to be kind of nasty inside.

My Verdict: Absolutely true

Tip : Always take full advantage of the bathrooms at any of any museums or big monuments (Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe), or restaurants you visit.

5. PRO : Beautiful Parks and Gardens Everywhere

For a big capital city, Paris has a lot of greenspace. And a lot of BEAUTIFUL greenspaces.

Each of the different parks and gardens of Paris comes with their own unique charm and features. Some of the most famous parks in Paris include the Jardin de Luxembourg, the Jardin de Tuileries, and the Champs de Mars.

The Jardin de Luxembourg is located in the 6th arrondissement near the Senate building, and is noted for its lovely green lawns, fountains, statues, and palace.

The Jardin de Tuileries is located next to the Louvre Museum and is famous for its green chairs surrounding basins and fountains.

The Champs de Mars is the park leading up to the Eiffel Tower, providing great views of the tower from below.

I love strolling the gardens and parks of Paris – it’s one of my favorite things to do and for sure a great reason to visit the city.

6. CON – Is Paris Expensive?

Paris is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. While there are some affordable options, in general, Paris is not a cheap destination.

The reason for this high cost of living comes down to a few factors. Firstly, Paris is a popular tourist destination, so demand for housing and other services is high. Secondly, the city has high taxes, which drives up prices on everything from food to transportation to entertainment.

However , one nice thing is that the prices already include the tax and tip . This means that restaurant meals end up being much less than you’d expect if you’re coming from the US, where tax and tip are added on top of the menu prices.

My Verdict: True. However, while Paris can be expensive, with a little bit of planning you can find ways to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. For example, instead of eating in restaurants for every meal, try putting together an easy picnic – I do this AALLLLL the time in Paris.

There are also a variety of cheap hotels in the city to keep accommodation costs on the lower side.

7. PRO: Delicious Food and Pastries

Boulangeries (bakeries) are a big part of the French culture, and for good reason. The bread is some of the best in the world – I’m legit drooling just thinking about it.

You can find a boulangerie on almost every corner in France – be sure to try some of the classic French breads, like baguettes, croissants, and pain au chocolat, and some of the more fancy pastries like millefeuille, Paris-Brest, or tarte aux fraises.

And know that true French baguettes are nothing like the American counterpart of “French bread.” Baguettes in France are crusty and crackly on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside and absolute heaven paired with butter or cheese.

Honestly, it’s almost worth going to Paris just for the carbs!

8. PRO: Iconic Monuments

As you walk through the streets of Paris, you cannot help but be in awe of the impressive monuments you find around the city.

The most famous of these is, of course, the Eiffel Tower, which was constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair and has since become an iconic symbol of Paris. Another well-known monument includes the Arc de Triomphe , which was built to honor the soldiers who fought in the French Revolution.

And of course, no visit to Paris would be complete without a stop at either the Place de la Concorde or Place Vendome – two of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe.

9. Con: Are There Scams in Paris?

There are a few scams and pushy behavior that you may encounter in Paris.

The first is the bracelet scam . This one happens mostly at Sacre Coeur in Montmartre, where men will come up to you, quickly weave a bracelet from string onto your wrist without asking, and then demand payment. If anyone tries to start a bracelet, or if they ask you to hold their string, say no forcefully and walk away.

The second is the gold ring scam , where the scammer will pretend to have found a ring and then ask if you’d like to buy it. The ring is a fake. Don’t fall for this.

The third , and the one I have encountered over and over and over again, is the petition-signing scam . It’s usually run by younger teenagers or children, and they ask you to sign a petition on their clipboard. If you sign, they’ll demand money, sometimes forcefully, as a donation to their cause. They may also pickpocket you.

Honestly, sometimes even saying a polite “Oh I’m sorry, no thank you” will be seen as encouragement, so I usually just ignore, or just say a confident “no” and continue on.

The last one is the begging woman with a note . Usually they ask “speak English?” and then hold up a note written in English about why they need money. I’ll admit, this one makes me uncomfortable because some people could be legitimately on the streets.

From everything I’ve read, though, this is a scam and you should just say no and keep going. At this point, I usually pre-emptively say “no” or ignore if someone holding a scrap of paper asks if I speak English.

My Verdict: Yes, there are definitely scams, but they usually occur in specific places in Paris. The vast majority of these scams happen around Sacré Coeur, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and near the Chatelet/Les Halles metro station.

My biggest advice is now you know what to expect with some of these scams, say no confidently and move on, and don’t let it bother you . You know that someone is going to ask you to sign a petition. Just say no, keep walking, and don’t give it another thought.

10. PRO: Impressive Haute Couture and Street Style

Paris is known for its high-end fashion brands and haute couture. The city is home to some of the most famous fashion designers in the world, and you can find people walking down the streets dressed in the latest creations from Chanel, Dior, Prada, and more.

And Parisian street style is just as impressive as the runway shows. You can see locals wearing everything from designer clothes to simple jeans and a T-shirt.

The stereotype of well-dressed Parisian women is so strong that you might be a little surprised that Parisian men also dress exceptionally well.

Honestly, I don’t know how they do it, but it’s really true that no matter what they’re wearing, Parisians always look stylish.

11. CON: Do Parisian Smoke a Lot?

Unfortunately, Parisians are well-known for their love of smoking, and it’s not uncommon to see people lighting up on the street or in restaurants.

Although the rate of smoking is decreasing over the past few years, a full 30% of French people smoke cigarettes (!!!). That number is just so crazy to me.

So yes, there will be times when you’ll smell cigarette smoke on the street.

My verdict: True. It’s not like you’ll constantly be enveloped in a haze of cigarette smoke, but sometimes you will smell it.

12. PRO: Scenic Bridges Over the River

The Seine is a river that runs through the heart of Paris, and it’s one of the things that makes the city so special. The river is lined with beautiful bridges, and each one has its own unique charm.

Some of the most famous bridges in Paris are the Pont des Arts, Pont Neuf, Pont Alexandre III, and more, and many of these make for fantastic photo spots in Paris.

The Pont Alexandre III bridge was built in the late 1800s and it’s decorated with intricate gold details. This is the fanciest bridge in Paris and is gorgeous! Strolling along the river is a very romantic thing to do in Paris .

13. CON: Is Paris Crowded ?

Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and with good reasons, as we discussed above. However, this popularity also comes with a downside- Paris can often be very crowded.

The streets of Paris can be full of people, especially in the summer months when tourism is at its peak. Trying to visit the most famous of the tourist attractions can really feel like you’re packed in.

Public transportation can also be extremely crowded during rush hour, and occasionally you’ll have to wait for another train before being able to board.

My Verdict: It really depends heavily on when you visit and what attraction you’re at. But the top sites in Paris can definitely be crowded.

Tip : There are a few ways to avoid the crowds in Paris. One is to visit in the fall, winter, or spring (although fall has become an increasingly popular time to visit Paris). Another is to visit the most famous attractions first thing in the morning before crowds show up. And finally, another is to explore all the hidden gems and less popular spots around the arrondissements of Paris . There is so much more to Paris than the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre!

14. PRO: It’s easy to visit nearby cities from Paris

Thanks to its central location and well-developed transportation system, it’s easy to visit nearby cities like Mont St Michel, the Normandy coast, the chateaux in the Loire Valley, Strasbourg in the Alsace region of France, and even international cities like London and Brussels.

Plus, the Palace of Versailles is only 30 minutes away from the city center and is a must-see for any visitor to Paris.

15. PRO: The Metro System

If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to get around Paris, the metro system is definitely the way to go.

With over 300 stations spread throughout the city, it’s easy to find a station close by no matter where you are. And with trains running every few minutes, you never have to wait long for a ride.

Plus, tickets are relatively cheap compared to other transportation options in Paris.

Tip: You must have your current metro ticket on you for the duration of your time in the metro system. Occasionally, officials will be checking passengers for tickets and you can be fined if you don’t have the right one. I like to keep all my unused metro tickets in a little pocket of my purse, and then when I pull one out to use for a ride, I keep that ticket in my pants pocket while I’m in the metro system. Then when I exit, I toss it in trash – this helps me keep track of my tickets.

16. Con – Is there the Smell of Pee?

An unfortunate experience of visiting Paris is that sometimes, you can smell pee. This happens most often in metro stations (but varies considerably between stations – some are nice, and some have some smelly areas).

My Verdict: Yes, on occasion

17. PRO: French is a Beautiful Language

One of my favorite parts of visiting France is listening to all the French being spoken! French is such a lyrical and poetic language and it’s really a treat to hear it being spoken as you walk down the street.

18. CON – Does Anyone Speak English?

While official stats say that only 20-30% of French people speak English, I’ve found that most French people that you will interface with as a tourist in Paris speak English quite well. So, I’ve found that the “myth” that French people don’t speak English very well is very unfounded.

While many people can speak English with you, it is polite to go into a conversation by asking “do you speak English?” instead of assuming that they do.

My Verdict: You will find plenty of French people that speak English

19. Con: Are Parisians Rude?

There is definitely the stereotype that Parisians are rude, and perhaps in some ways this could be true. Parisians do tend to be more aloof and arrogant than people in other countries, and even more than people in other cities in France.

Some of this is just due to France having a different culture than many other countries. French people by nature tend to keep more to themselves, and it is not culturally normal to walk down the street and smile at people.

In other ways, I would say that Parisians are more polite than in other countries. When you enter a shop or store, everyone always says “bonjour.” When you leave, everyone always says “goodbye, have a good day.” Always .

Other uses of polite language are very common in French.

French people also appreciate when foreigners respect and appreciate their language. So, asking politely, “excuse me, do you speak English” is generally going to be more well-received than just walking up to someone and speaking in English, without saying hello, please, or thank you.

My Verdict: Are there rude people in Paris? Absolutely. There are rude people in every city and country around the world. But I would not classify Parisians in general as rude.

In general, I’ve rarely come across anyone who was rude to me in France . While most people aren’t going to be super warm and immediately welcoming, I’ve had interactions with dozens and dozens of French people and had 99% positive or neutral interactions.

Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Paris

Eiffel tower.

I recommend walking up the stairs to the second level, and then taking the elevator to the top from there

Arc de Triomphe

Champs Elysees

Sacre Coeur

Montmartre area

The Montmartre neighborhood is a charming area to explore and discover (and includes the Sacré Coeur Basilica mentioned above)

Walk the Seine River

Jardin de Tuileries

Top 5 Hidden Gems in Paris

Pere lachaise cemetery.

Parc Monceau

Rodin Museum

Marché d’Aligre or Marché Saxe-Breteuil

These are two open air markets that locals love!

Opera Garnier

A Few Other Tips for Visiting Paris

Paris museum pass.

There are two city passes available in Paris: the Paris Museum Pass and the Paris Pass.

The Paris Pass is more expensive, and in my opinion, not worth it.

I do think that the Paris Museum Pass is a good value and can save you time and money, so I do recommend that one.

The Arrondissement System

Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements (neighborhoods). Each one has a different feel and vibe. Here’s a handy map of the arrondissements:

France uses type C plugs for their electrical cords, so if you’re traveling from the United States, you will definitely need a power adaptor . I like this set of 3 – it’s affordable and you can charge multiple devices at once.

Museum Closures

Some of the top museums in Paris are closed one day a week. Notably, the Louvre is closed on Tuesday, and Versailles is closed on Monday, so be prepared for that when planning your itinerary.

However, the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe are open every day.

The Perfect Paris Itinerary

Speaking of itinerary planning, I have what I unashamedly consider to be the best itinerary for your Paris trip , for anywhere from 3-7 days. I’ve taken multiple people to Paris for their first visit, and this is essentially what I always follow!

Final Thoughts on If Paris Is Worth Visiting

I 100% think that Paris is worth visiting – it’s an incredible city unlike any other in the world. Of course, there are some cons to visiting – no place is perfect, and there are some downsides to the city.

However, I really think that just being prepared and knowledgeable about both the pros and the cons of the city will help you have a great vacation in Paris. If you’re trying to decide if you should visit Paris, I definitely say yes!

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Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

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Explore Paris

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Essential paris.

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Paris Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing paris.

Try and speak French as much as you can! Even if Paris is an international city, we do like it when people talk to us in our own language or at least try to!

You will not be brought your bill after you finish in a restaurant or cafe. It’s considered rude and pushy. You need to ask for it.

luvplayacar

Pack small! … The buildings are old and the stairways are small and narrow and the elevators say they will fit 8, but not 8 US citizens with large luggage.

Make sure to buy your tickets to museums online and print them or have them ready to go on your phone. Also, read all of the details on your tickets, what way you don't wait an extra half hour in the yellow line instead of the short green line I was supposed to go to at the Eiffel Tower.

Paris is magical! From its pretty and remarkable landscapes to its inspiring cafes, Paris has a unique combination of traditional architecture, rich history, pleasant parks and squares, original cuisine and special spirit of life.

There is always something new and exciting to see here, whether you have been here once or several times.

In Paris, venturing off the beaten path is very easy, there are little gems hidden everywhere in plain sight.

You can discover a new city in Paris in every arrondissement. Every time I return I make sure to stay in a new and different part of the city and spend most of my trip exploring there.

What is the best way to get there?

Paris is served by two international airports: Paris-Charles de Gaulle (the second busiest airport in Europe) and Paris-Orly.

The Gare du Nord is a major transit hub for trains to Northern France and to international destinations in Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Paris from overseas, use the government’s  Visa Wizard  to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June to August): Summer is festival season in Paris, with highlights including Paris L'Eté, Fnac Live, and Solidays, while the Bastille Day fireworks draw huge crowds and the Paris Plages festival brings the beach to the banks of the Seine. Temperatures average highs in the 70s F (20s C) and lows in the 50s F (Teens C).

Alternatively, visit over the holiday season, when Christmas markets, NYE parties, and festive illuminations show the City of Lights at its most atmospheric. During the holiday season Paris sees average highs in the 40s and lows in the 30s (10 to 0 C).

Vélib' is a bike-share system with thousands of bicycle stations located across Paris and in some surrounding municipalities. Visitors can purchase a one- or seven-day subscription either at the docking stations or online .

RATP operates its metro and RER services daily from 5:30 a.m. to about 1:15 a.m (2:15 a.m. on Friday and Saturday). The metro system is the city’s local underground subway network servicing central Paris and the RER is the regional express network. More information about the network and fares can be found online .

RATP operates Paris’ local bus system daily from 5:30 a.m. to about 1:15 a.m (2:15 a.m. on Friday and Saturday). At night, the Noctilien night bus network takes over, operating 47 bus lines from 12:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. More information about the network and fares can be found online .

Hailing down a taxi on the street in Paris can be difficult so it is best to find an official taxi stand. You can also book a taxi online or on your smartphone here .

ridesharing

Uber and Bolt are readily available in Paris on your smartphone.

Cityscoot is an electronic scooter-sharing scheme which offers scooter rental through an app on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Central European Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in France is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The plug has two round pins.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip.

Tipping is not obligatory in France, however, a tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.

Public transport

Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.

Try to speak the language

Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect. Locals will often switch to English for your ease and comfort but they appreciate the effort.

Always greet people

A courteous, formal greeting in French, “Bonjour, Monsieur/Madame,” is always appreciated — this includes shop attendants, wait staff, hotel staff, drivers.

Don’t talk loudly in public

It is considered rude and ugly.

Don’t expect fast service

Sales assistants in shops or wait staff in restaurants won’t approach you straight away — giving people time and space is an important part of French culture. Also, don’t expect wait staff to give you the bill when your meal is finished, you will have to ask for it.

N.Y. DA cursed at officer and refused to comply during traffic stop, police bodycam video shows

An upstate New York district attorney is under investigation after police bodycam video showed her getting into a heated confrontation with an officer who had stopped her for speeding, calling him an “a--hole" and demanding “leave me alone.”

Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley apologized on Monday, a day after New York Gov. Kathy Hochul referred the April 22 incident to the State Commission on Prosecutorial Conduct.

"What I did was wrong — no excuses," Doorley said in her apology. "I take full responsibility for my actions.”

The bodycam video, obtained by NBC affiliate WHEC of Rochester , showed that the exchange started when a Webster police officer pulled up to Doorley's garage, where she had just parked.

The officer, identified as Cameron Crisafulli by the Democrat and Chronicle newspaper, asked Doorley why she didn't pull over when he had his lights and sirens on.

She admitted she was going 55 mph in a 35 mph zone. Later in the 26-minute video, she said she didn't think he was trying to pull her over, claiming there were other people on the road. “I was right behind you,” the officer replied.

Throughout the video, Doorley did not cooperate with demands to stay in front of the garage. Instead she walked around her garage, at one point trying to go inside her home.

“Ma’am, do not go inside,” Crisafulli said. “Ma’am, come outside. You can’t just go inside, this is a traffic stop.”

“I understand the law better than you. Get out of my f------ house,” she retorted. 

Doorley appeared agitated and boasted multiple times, “I am the DA of Monroe County,” and repeatedly said “leave me alone.” When told she had violated speeding laws, she said, “I don’t really care.”

Doorley said she was calling Webster Police Chief Dennis Kohlmeier and she put Crisafulli on the line. Crisafulli then called a supervisor to the scene.

“I just don’t understand the hostility towards me. I'm just doing my job,” Crisafulli said. She quipped back: “You're being an a--hole. I am the DA of Monroe County.”

“If you give me traffic ticket that’s fine. I'm the one that prosecutes it. Go ahead,” she said at one point. 

“I'm having a really bad day," she said. "I've been dealing with murders all over the city.”

A supervisor ultimately came to the home and spoke with Doorley, and Crisafulli ended up writing her a ticket for speeding.

When he presented it to her, she simply nodded and said, “I apologize.”

“I'm sorry you had a bad day, and I'm sorry it went this way. I do respect what you do. Have a good day,” the officer replied.

An apology and investigation

Hochul, in her statement Sunday, said Doorley's behavior was "in contravention of her responsibility as a District Attorney and undermined her ability to hold others accountable for violating the law."

Doorley issued an apology video Monday, WHEC reported, saying: “Last Monday I failed you and the standards that I hold myself to. And for that I am so sorry."

She added, "I fell short of the values I’ve held for my entire 33-year career. I didn’t treat this officer with the respect that he deserved. All police officers deserve respect."

She said that she had come home from work that day and dealt with three homicides that had occurred the weekend before.

" I was still reeling from a frightening medical concern that my husband received that afternoon," she explained. "But we all have bad days and stress, and it was wrong on me to take it out on an officer who was simply doing his job. While I had previously apologized to him, I will say it again, I’m sorry."

She said she pleaded guilty to the speeding ticket and will pay the fine, and is referring the matter to a different district attorney's office for review. She said she'd also self-report the case to the grievance committee.

"If one of my assistant district attorneys had acted this way, I would have disciplined them, so I’m disciplining myself. I will take ethics training to remind myself that professionalism matters," she said. "I’ve been humbled by my own stupidity and I am fully to blame. I will make this right — I ask for your forgiveness."

NBC News has reached out to Doorley's office and Webster police for comment.

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The all-electric Ariya did it on a single charge — but it was between those cities in Ontario

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There’s something about Europe in the spring – driving from Cambridge to Hamburg to Lisbon, Stratford to London, Sparta to Copenhagen to Vienna, and then to Paris. And especially in an all-electric 2024 Nissan Ariya , and doing it all in one day and on a single charge.

Road Trip: Cambridge to Paris in a 2024 Nissan Ariya Back to video

And yes, of course there’s more to it. In addition to the European versions, these are all towns in Ontario, and it was 301 kilometres to drive to all of them. Yes, the route was a bit of fun with the names — Nissan called it the Ariya European Tour — but it was also an interesting road trip and a chance to stretch the Ariya’s electric legs.

What’s the Nissan Ariya all about?

Nissan started its battery journey with the Leaf , the first mass-produced modern electric car when it debuted for 2010. It received a makeover for 2017 and was joined by the Ariya crossover/SUV for 2023.

The Ariya starts out in front-wheel drive (FWD), with one motor that makes 238 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive (AWD) models add a second motor, which combine to churn out 389 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The AWD versions are dubbed e-4orce, pronounced “e-force.” Beyond that, both the FWD and AWD offer a standard or long-range battery, the latter indicated by a “+” in the name. Within those variables of motors and batteries, the lineup’s overall driving range on a charge stretches from 330 to 465 kilometres.

The Ariya starts with the Engage FWD with standard battery at $52,998 (all trims qualify for the federal $5,000 “green” rebate, along with any applicable provincial rebates). But one must experience Europe in style, and so I was in the top-trim Evolve+ e-4orce with Platinum+ Package at $69,998. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) rates it at 428 km, more than enough for my trek through Britain and Europe.

The first leg: Cambridge to Stratford

I set out from Cambridge with my co-driver, Quebec-based auto writer Dominic Boucher. The route was primarily secondary highways, most with a maximum speed of 80 km/h. There were several journalists on the route, and there was a friendly competition to see who could drive the most efficiently. We never held up traffic, but we did employ the habits that work on all vehicles, gas or electric , including accelerating and braking smoothly; looking ahead to anticipate issues, so you’re not sitting behind the stopped truck hoping someone will let you in; and maintaining a steady speed, instead of on-the-throttle, off-the-throttle (which is not only inefficient, but very annoying for your passengers).

As with all electric vehicles (EVs), the Ariya uses regenerative braking , capturing energy otherwise lost during deceleration and feeding it back into the battery as electricity. It can be decreased or increased, and will bring the Ariya to almost a full stop, but you do have to use the brake to do so completely, rather than the true “one-pedal” driving on some EVs where you only need to use the throttle. That’s a surprising omission on a car that’s geared toward city driving.

Our tour first took us to New Hamburg, as opposed to the older Hamburg in Germany. If we’d been here 108 years ago, we might have continued north to Berlin, but that Ontario city was renamed Kitchener due to anti-German sentiment during the First World War. We could have been in an electric car back then too, although that early era of EVs was almost over. Their rudimentary batteries didn’t have a lot of range, but they started instantly, while gasoline cars had to be cranked. That could be difficult and potentially dangerous, and for a while, electric cars were very popular. But Cadillac came out with a self-starter in 1912 , and before long, gas had knocked electricity off the map. Meanwhile, our map took us to Lisbon — a city in Portugal, a small community in Ontario — and then on to Stratford.

The second leg: Stratford to London

Stratford is famous for its annual Shakespearean festival , and is also the hometown of Justin Bieber. While my tastes run more to the Bard than the Bieb, there’s enough room in the city for both.

Speaking of room, the Ariya has that, and legroom is generous in both the front and rear seats. Nissan calls its chairs “anti-gravity” and they’re comfortable and supportive, including on a full day’s drive. Cargo capacity is 646 litres with the rear seats up, and up to 1,691 litres when they’re folded. I don’t golf and have never packed clubs into a vehicle — I figure if I wanted that little ball enough to chase it, I wouldn’t have knocked it away in the first place — so I’ll take Nissan’s word on it that the Ariya can get three golf bags to the links.

The third leg: London to Vienna

I drove from Britain to Austria via Greece and Denmark, as this leg included passing through Sparta, founded by a Quaker in 1837; and Copenhagen, not far from the shore of Lake Erie.

The Ariya’s 442 lb-ft of torque will move it smartly off the line as needed, but this model isn’t about pure grunt. Instead, it’s a smooth operator that works well as an everyday commuter. A light foot on the throttle produces linear acceleration, and the ride is quiet and composed, with a tight turning circle and decent steering feel.

The AWD system includes torque vectoring, distributing power between the individual wheels. My drive was on a dry day, but on a previous event I was encouraged to turn an Ariya hard on a water-soaked course, and the system helped to keep it under control instead of spinning out.

The fourth leg: Vienna to Paris

One of Thomas Edison’s grandfathers was born in Ontario’s Vienna, and young Thomas often visited the family farm there. Later on, Edison famously clashed with Nikola Tesla over the merits of alternating current (AC), which Tesla championed; or direct current (DC), which was Edison’s preference. Tesla’s AC won for households, but both types are used today, of course, and like virtually all electric cars, the Ariya can take both. It will fill up on a 240-volt charger in about 10 to 14 hours; or on a public DC fast charger, that drops to about half an hour for the battery to go from 10 to 80 per cent.

Vienna was home to an Edison Museum but it has since closed, and the artifacts have been moved for safekeeping until a permanent place can be found for them. The town’s main street was obviously a busy place with numerous stores and businesses, but sadly, as in many small communities, all now sit empty.

“Empty” doesn’t describe the Ariya, especially at this top trim level. Features include a curved screen housing dual 12-inch gauge cluster and infotainment displays, parking assist, panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, head-up display, digital camera mirror, premium audio, and heated front and rear seats and steering wheel. Those may seem odd on an EV, but you tend to turn down the cabin heat if your hands and butt are warm, which saves even more battery power.

The Ariya includes ProPilot Assist , Nissan’s highway driving assist feature that combines adaptive cruise control and lane centring. U.S. buyers can opt for a hands-free version, but it involves pre-mapped roads and that hasn’t been done in Canada yet, so there’s no estimate on when it’ll be offered up here.

There’s a volume dial for the stereo, and the on-screen icons are easy to figure out, but I’m less enamoured with other controls. For climate or drive functions, you press icons on the woodgrain-style dash and centre console. This requires eyes off the road to find the right spot, and a firm press to make things happen. The centre console also slides electrically forward or back. It seems a needless add-on, and when it’s forward, the armrest isn’t in line with the door rests, as those who like to rest their elbows will find out. A corresponding drawer also slides out electrically from the lower dash.

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The end of the journey

There is an Eiffel Tower, but it’s inexplicably in Straffordville, about 70 km south of Paris. It’s also only about seven feet tall, wrapped in Christmas lights in someone’s driveway. Paris itself is a lovely town of about 15,000 people, with a beautiful historic downtown. Our European tour ended at the Dog-Eared Café , so named because it’s a combination coffee shop and secondhand bookstore, where I bought a couple of volumes for my bookshelves.

My co-driver Dominic and I spent equal time behind the wheel, and we ended up in third place for efficiency at 16.9 kWh/100 km, and with 157 km remaining on our battery. It was a tight race, as first and second went to 16.6 and 16.7 kWh, respectively; others came in as high as 20.4 kWh. We couldn’t have done it all in one day between the better-known versions of all those cities, but this closer-to-home version was a fun and fuel-free trip.

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Jil McIntosh

· Professional writer for more than 35 years, appearing in some of the top publications in Canada and the U.S.

· Specialties include new-vehicle reviews, old cars and automotive history, automotive news, and “How It Works” columns that explain vehicle features and technology

· Member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) since 2003; voting member for AJAC Canadian Car of the Year Awards; juror on the Women’s World Car of the Year Awards

Jil McIntosh graduated from East York Collegiate in Toronto, and then continued her education at the School of Hard Knocks. Her early jobs including driving a taxi in Toronto; and warranty administration in a new-vehicle dealership, where she also held information classes for customers, explaining the inner mechanical workings of vehicles and their features.

Jil McIntosh is a freelance writer who has been writing for Driving.ca since 2016, but she’s been a professional writer starting when most cars still had carburetors. At the age of eleven, she had a story published in the defunct Toronto Telegram newspaper, for which she was paid $25; given the short length of the story and the dollar’s buying power at the time, that might have been the relatively best-paid piece she’s ever written.

An old-car enthusiast who owns a 1947 Cadillac and 1949 Studebaker truck, she began her writing career crafting stories for antique-car and hot-rod car club magazines. When the Ontario-based newspaper Old Autos started up in 1987, dedicated to the antique-car hobby, she became a columnist starting with its second issue; the newspaper is still around and she still writes for it. Not long after the Toronto Star launched its Wheels section in 1986 – the first Canadian newspaper to include an auto section – she became one of its regular writers. She started out writing feature stories, and then added “new-vehicle reviewer” to her resume in 1999. She stayed with Wheels, in print and later digital as well, until the publication made a cost-cutting decision to shed its freelance writers. She joined Driving.ca the very next day.

In addition to Driving.ca, she writes for industry-focused publications, including Automotive News Canada and Autosphere. Over the years, her automotive work also appeared in such publications as Cars & Parts, Street Rodder, Canadian Hot Rods, AutoTrader, Sharp, Taxi News, Maclean’s, The Chicago Tribune, Forbes Wheels, Canadian Driver, Sympatico Autos, and Reader’s Digest. Her non-automotive work, covering such topics as travel, food and drink, rural living, fountain pen collecting, and celebrity interviews, has appeared in publications including Harrowsmith, Where New Orleans, Pen World, The Book for Men, Rural Delivery, and Gambit.

Major awards won by the author

2016 AJAC Journalist of the Year; Car Care Canada / CAA Safety Journalism award winner in 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2013, runner-up in 2021; Pirelli Photography Award 2015; Environmental Journalism Award 2019; Technical Writing Award 2020; Vehicle Testing Review award 2020, runner-up in 2022; Feature Story award winner 2020; inducted into the Street Rodding Hall of Fame in 1994.

Contact info

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jilmcintosh/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JilMcIntosh

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Toyota Paris 2024 – KINTO 4+

Toyota motor europe s.a./n.v., designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

Toyota, the official Mobility partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, is presenting KINTO Share – the shared mobility app for Paris 2024. This app will enable ATHLETES to use shared inclusive micro mobility in the Paralympic Village and NOC/NPC* STAFF to use a car sharing service during the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. KINTO Share app is available in English, French and Spanish languages. Why download KINTO Share? You are an ATHLETE or other resident in the Paralympic Village. KINTO Share app gives you access to the personal mobility solutions from Toyota to navigate the Village: C+walk S, a three-wheeled seated mobility device, and Yosh-E, a wheelchair e-puller. Download KINTO Share mobile app, find the closest personal mobility solution matching your need, reserve, unlock and ride! This is a free service for the athletes and other residents of the Paralympic Village. You are an NOC/NPC* STAFF MEMBER looking for short-term car rental during Paris 2024. KINTO Share app gives you access to the seamless and convenient car sharing provided by Toyota. You can access the service once invited by your organization’s transport coordinator or chef de mission. KINTO Share enables the renting of cars for a short period of time (per hour/per day) with a Circulation VAPP, giving NOC and NPC staff extra flexibility during the peak days of operations or for ad hoc last-minute transport needs. This is a paid service. More details on the service and FAQ are available here: https://www.kinto-mobility.eu/fr/fr/kinto-share/kinto-share-paris24 * NOC = National Olympic Committee, NPC = National Paralympic Committee.

App Privacy

The developer, Toyota Motor Europe S.A./N.V. , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Identifiers

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Spanish, Swedish

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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David Cameron commits £3bn a year in aid to Ukraine ‘for as long as necessary’

The foreign secretary called the conflict ‘the challenge of our generation’ after making second trip to Kyiv to meet Zelenskiy

The UK has promised £3bn a year “for as long as it is necessary” to help Ukraine , David Cameron said on Thursday as he made his second visit to Kyiv since becoming UK foreign secretary.

He also said he had no objection if weapons supplied by the UK were used to strike inside Russia .

Lord Cameron – who met the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy , and the foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, on his trip – has made securing extra arms for Ukraine one of his top priorities as foreign secretary. His announcement is the UK’s biggest spending pledge since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

In January the UK prime minister, Rishi Sunak, pledged £2.5bn in military aid to Ukraine for 2024-25 , an increase of £200m on the previous two years. He gave no commitment beyond that date.

Cameron said in a Reuters interview: “Ukraine has the right to strike inside Russia because Russia is striking inside Ukraine … You can understand why Ukraine feels the need to defend itself.”

He added: “We’ve just emptied all we can in terms of giving equipment. Some of the equipment is actually arriving in Ukraine today while I am here.”

The foreign secretary announced that the UK’s donation of military equipment would include precision-guided bombs, air defence missiles and equipment for 100 mobile air defence teams to enable Ukraine to shoot down Russia’s drones and missiles.

The UK also committed to doubling its domestic munitions production by investing a further £10bn over the next 10 years. This production aims to ensure UK national security while sustaining the flow of weapons to Kyiv, keeping Ukraine in the fight for as long as it takes.

Cameron said the UK would bring international partners together next month to attract additional contributions to the International Fund for Ukraine to meet Ukraine’s urgent capability requirements.

The foreign secretary also confirmed a £36m package for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and investment in future innovations to support Ukraine’s energy transition and recovery.

Cameron said: “Ukraine is fiercely defending itself against Russia’s illegal invasion, making a war Putin thought would last days take years. But this war is the challenge of our generation and Ukraine cannot fight it alone.

“We must all step up to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to win. Through our multi-year military funding, weapons provision and vital support to protect and repair Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, the UK is standing with Ukraine and we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”

Cameron has ruled out sending British troops to Ukraine, but in an interview with the Economist, the French president, Emmanuel Macron , maintained his stance of strategic ambiguity, saying: “I’m not ruling anything out, because we are facing someone who is not ruling anything out. We have undoubtedly been too hesitant by defining the limits of our action to someone who no longer has any and who is the aggressor.

“Our capacity is to be credible, to continue to help, to give Ukraine the means to resist. But our credibility also depends on a capacity to deter by not giving full visibility as to what we will or will not do. Otherwise we weaken ourselves.”

If the Conservatives are not re-elected a Labour government would either have to adopt Cameron’s spending commitment or renounce it.

The UK’s Ukraine policy has generally been agreed on a broadly bipartisan basis but it is not known if this multi-year pledge to continue arming Ukraine’s military for “as long as it takes” was cleared with the Labour leader, Keir Starmer, in advance.

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