Paris, the city of light, is filled with thousands of hotels, attractions, shops, and restaurants. If it’s a first-time visit, or even if you know the city, this guide aims to help you focus on where to stay, where to eat, where to go, and the most basic information you need before you go to Paris.
Get there
Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, making it easy to access. It is a major hub for many airlines and an excellent starting point or stopover during a European vacation. Because it is so popular, there are also many great deals on airfare, accommodation, or vacation packages.
Move
Paris is divided into districts or neighborhoods. These districts circulate in a circular spiral that begins in the center of the city and extends outwards. The city is also divided by the river Seine, and the two sides are the left bank and the right bank.
Public transportation in Paris is extensive, including popular Metro trains, France’s train system that goes to points outside the city, a bus system, and more.
Where to stay
There are hundreds of hotels in Paris, which can make it a daunting task to isolate the right one for you. The best thing to do is determine which attractions you want to see the most and which districts are within walking distance. Once you do that, look for accommodation within or near that district. Many of the most popular attractions are within the first five districts.
Once you’ve done that, you need to decide how much to spend and whether your room should be luxurious or basic. The French government regulates star ratings, which is very helpful. You will pay less (and therefore get less) with one and two star hotels. Three-star hotels are generally reasonably priced and comfortable enough for most travelers. Or you can live it in four-star accommodation.
Read guest reviews, compare prices and book a hotel in Paris with TripAdvisor
Where to eat and drink
One of the great indulgences on a visit to Paris is definitely the food. Here are some of the best gourmet restaurants in the world. Even cheap cafes or street crepe vendors are wonderful.
It can help to do a little research first about where you want to dine. For some of the more popular restaurants, you can even make reservations online. You can also ask your concierge for help with booking reservations or suggestions on where to eat. Note that in Paris, dinner time is usually later than in the US, and it’s around 7 or 8 PM. Unlike in smaller French cities, where it can be difficult to find a restaurant open between lunch and dinner, there is always a place in Paris to grab a bite.
Be on the lookout for brasseries that have opening hours throughout the day, although there may be a restricted menu between main meals.
Paris is also packed with various trendy nightclubs, jazz clubs, and fun cafes.
Paris attractions
The city of light has many of the most visited attractions in the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s impossible to see them all, but do your homework first and prioritize. With a numbered list, you can start with what is most important. So anything you miss will be less important.
Romantic Paris
Paris is ideal for a romantic getaway, a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, secret plans to propose or any adventure for a couple. Find out how to plan a visit with your sweetheart.
Stay connected
Even while on vacation in Paris, you may need to keep in touch with work, friends, or family during your visit. However, there is no need to worry. Wi-Fi (wireless internet connection) is emerging more and more, cell phones can be rented and you can buy a French SIM card for your stay.
Outside paris
France is not just about Paris in any way. Find out about excursions outside of Paris.
- Day or night excursions from Paris
- Disneyland Paris: before you go
- Castle of Vaux-le-Vicomte
- Museum of Camille Claudel, Rodin’s lover
- Great Gothic cathedrals around Paris
