Paris Travel Guide – Best Things to Do in Paris 2024

Welcome to the ultimate Paris travel guide! Paris, the City of Light, is one of the world’s most enchanting destinations, attracting over 30 million visitors annually. This comprehensive paris travel guide will help you discover the best attractions, hidden gems, local cuisine, and insider tips to make your Parisian adventure unforgettable.

Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning to explore more of this magnificent city, this paris travel guide covers everything you need to know – from iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to charming neighborhoods that most tourists miss.

Why You Need This Paris Travel Guide

Paris can be overwhelming with its countless museums, monuments, restaurants, and neighborhoods. This paris travel guide is designed to help you navigate the city like a local, avoid tourist traps, and experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle. We’ll show you how to skip the lines, find the best photo spots, and discover places that even many Parisians don’t know about!

Best Time to Visit Paris – Paris Travel Guide Timing Tips

Choosing the right time to visit is crucial for any paris travel guide. Here’s what to expect:

Spring (April-June): The best time to visit Paris! Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and outdoor café culture in full swing. This is peak season, so book accommodations early. Average temperature: 15-20°C (59-68°F).

Summer (July-August): Warm and lively, but crowded with tourists. Many Parisians leave the city in August for vacation, so some shops and restaurants may be closed. Perfect for outdoor activities. Average temperature: 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Fall (September-November): Another excellent time! Fewer crowds, beautiful autumn colors, and cultural events resume. September is particularly pleasant. Average temperature: 10-18°C (50-64°F).

Winter (December-March): Cold but magical, especially during Christmas. Fewer tourists mean shorter lines at major attractions. Perfect for museum hopping and cozy café sessions. Average temperature: 3-8°C (37-46°F).

Pro tip for your paris travel guide: Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for the best combination of weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices!

Top Attractions in This Paris Travel Guide

No paris travel guide is complete without covering the city’s iconic landmarks. Here are the must-see attractions:

1. The Eiffel Tower

The symbol of Paris and arguably the most famous landmark in the world. Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, this iron lattice tower stands 330 meters tall and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Paris Travel Guide Tips:

• Book tickets online weeks in advance to skip the 2-3 hour wait
• Visit at sunset for the best views and photo opportunities
• The tower sparkles for 5 minutes every hour after dark – magical!
• Best photo spot: Trocadéro Gardens across the Seine River
• Budget option: View from the second floor is just as spectacular and costs less

Admission: €28.30 for summit access, €18.10 for second floor | Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:45 AM (summer)

2. Louvre Museum

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral

4. Arc de Triomphe

5. Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Perched atop Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, this Romano-Byzantine basilica offers stunning city views. The white domes are visible from many parts of Paris.

Paris Travel Guide Tips:

• Free to enter the basilica (modest dress required)
• Climb the dome for €6 – worth it for 360-degree views
• Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds and catch golden hour
• Explore Montmartre neighborhood afterward – cobblestone streets, artists, and cafés
• Take the funicular up if you don’t want to climb the stairs

Hidden Gems in Our Paris Travel Guide

This paris travel guide wouldn’t be complete without sharing some lesser-known treasures:

Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte)

Paris’s elevated park built on an old railway viaduct – the inspiration for New York’s High Line! A peaceful 4.7km walkway with gardens, art galleries, and unique views of the city. Perfect for a morning jog or afternoon stroll.

Canal Saint-Martin

A local favorite spot for picnics and people-watching. Tree-lined waterways with charming bridges and locks. Grab wine and snacks from a local shop and join the locals on the canal banks, especially on sunny afternoons.

Musée Rodin

While everyone rushes to the Louvre, this museum dedicated to sculptor Auguste Rodin is a serene alternative. See “The Thinker” and “The Kiss” in a beautiful mansion with stunning gardens. Much less crowded and equally impressive!

Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

An iconic English-language bookstore with a fascinating history. The current shop, opened in 1951, has become a literary haven. Browse books, read in cozy nooks, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere. Just across from Notre-Dame.

Rue Crémieux

Paris’s most colorful street! Pastel-painted houses line this pedestrian cobblestone street. Instagram heaven, but remember to be respectful – people actually live here. Best visited early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

Best Neighborhoods According to This Paris Travel Guide

Understanding Paris’s neighborhoods (arrondissements) is essential for any paris travel guide:

Le Marais (3rd & 4th arrondissements): Historic Jewish quarter turned trendy hotspot. Narrow medieval streets, vintage boutiques, art galleries, and the best falafel outside of Israel. Great nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a central, walkable base.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement): Intellectual heart of Paris with historic cafés (Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots), art galleries, and upscale shopping. More expensive but oozes Parisian elegance and sophistication.

Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement): Student neighborhood with affordable restaurants, bookshops, and the Panthéon. Lively atmosphere, especially around Rue Mouffetard. Budget-friendly option with authentic Parisian life.

Montmartre (18th arrondissement): Bohemian hilltop village with artistic history. Picturesque but touristy near Sacré-Cœur. Stay here for romantic vibes but expect hills and stairs.

Canal Saint-Martin (10th arrondissement): Hip and local. Trendy bars, vintage shops, and multicultural restaurants. Where young Parisians actually hang out. Great for experiencing authentic Paris away from tourist crowds.

Food and Dining – Paris Travel Guide Recommendations

Food is an essential part of any paris travel guide. Here’s where and what to eat:

Must-Try Parisian Foods

• Croissants: Try Du Pain et des Idées or Blé Sucré for the best in Paris
• Macarons: Pierre Hermé is worth the hype (but expensive)
• Steak Frites: Le Relais de l’Entrecôte – no menu, just perfect steak with secret sauce
• French Onion Soup: Au Pied de Cochon, open 24/7
• Crêpes: Breizh Café in Le Marais for authentic Breton galettes
• Wine: Visit a wine bar like Le Baron Rouge for affordable tastings

Paris Travel Guide Dining Tips

Understanding French dining culture is crucial for your paris travel guide experience:

• Lunch is typically 12:00-2:00 PM, dinner starts at 7:30 PM (eating earlier marks you as a tourist)
• Service is slower – it’s not rude, dining is meant to be leisurely
• Say “Bonjour” when entering ANY establishment – it’s considered rude not to
• Tap water is free (“une carafe d’eau, s’il vous plaît”)
• Tipping is optional but 5-10% for good service is appreciated
• Set menus (prix fixe) offer better value than à la carte
• Many restaurants close Sunday and Monday – plan accordingly

Budget-Friendly Eating According to Our Paris Travel Guide

Paris doesn’t have to break the bank:

• Bakeries for breakfast and lunch – €5-8 for excellent sandwiches and pastries
• Supermarkets (Monoprix, Franprix) for picnic supplies
• Set lunch menus (formule or menu) are much cheaper than dinner
• Street markets for fresh produce and cheese – Marché d’Aligre, Marché Bastille
• Food halls like Marché des Enfants Rouges for diverse, affordable options

Getting Around – Paris Travel Guide Transportation

Money-Saving Tips from Our Paris Travel Guide

Paris can be expensive, but this paris travel guide shows you how to save:

• Paris Museum Pass: €62 for 2 days, €77 for 4 days, €92 for 6 days. Skip lines at 60+ museums and monuments. Pays for itself with just 3-4 visits.
• Free museum days: First Sunday of each month for most museums (expect crowds)
• Free attractions: Notre-Dame exterior, Sacré-Cœur basilica, parks (Luxembourg, Tuileries), street art in Belleville, Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Book accommodations outside central areas: Stay in 10th, 11th, or 19th arrondissements for better value
• Avoid tourist restaurants: Walk 2-3 blocks away from major sights for authentic prices
• Buy a water bottle: Fill up at public fountains (eau potable) instead of buying bottled water
• Visit in winter: Hotel prices drop 30-50% in January-March (except holidays)

Safety Tips in This Paris Travel Guide

Paris is generally safe, but like any major city, you need to be aware. This paris travel guide covers essential safety information:

• Pickpockets: The biggest threat to tourists. Watch your belongings on metro, near monuments, and in crowded areas. Use anti-theft bags or keep valuables in front pockets.
• Scams to avoid: Petition signers, friendship bracelet sellers, gold ring “finders,” and unofficial tour guides. Just say “Non” firmly and keep walking.
• Areas to be cautious: Northern parts of 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements at night. Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles metro stations.
• Emergency number: 112 (EU standard), 17 for police, 15 for ambulance
• Embassy information: Know your embassy location and contact before you go

Sample 3-Day Paris Travel Guide Itinerary

Essential French Phrases for Your Paris Travel Guide

Knowing basic French makes a huge difference. Most Parisians appreciate the effort, even if you butcher the pronunciation:

• Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR) – Hello (use this EVERYWHERE!)
• Merci (mehr-SEE) – Thank you
• S’il vous plaît (see voo PLEH) – Please
• Excusez-moi (ex-koo-zay-MWA) – Excuse me
• Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ahn-GLAY) – Do you speak English?
• L’addition, s’il vous plaît (lah-dee-see-OHN) – The check, please
• Où sont les toilettes? (oo sohn lay twa-LET) – Where are the bathrooms?
• Combien ça coûte? (kohm-bee-ehn sah KOOT) – How much does it cost?

Frequently Asked Questions from Our Paris Travel Guide

How many days do I need in Paris according to this paris travel guide?

Minimum 3 days to see major highlights, 5-7 days to explore neighborhoods and museums properly, 10+ days to really experience Paris like a local. Most first-time visitors find 4-5 days ideal.

Is Paris expensive to visit?

Paris can be expensive, but this paris travel guide shows it’s possible to visit on various budgets. Budget travelers can manage on €50-70/day (hostels, cheap eats, free sights), mid-range €100-150/day, luxury €200+/day. Accommodation is usually the biggest expense.

Do I need to speak French?

Not necessarily, but learning basic phrases helps tremendously. Most people in tourist areas speak some English, but making an effort with French is appreciated. Always start with “Bonjour” and “Parlez-vous anglais?” before speaking English.

What’s the best area to stay in Paris?

According to this paris travel guide, Le Marais (3rd/4th), Latin Quarter (5th), or Saint-Germain (6th) are ideal for first-time visitors – central, safe, and walkable. Budget travelers should consider 10th or 11th arrondissements for better value while still being well-connected.

Is the Paris Metro safe?

Yes, generally very safe, but watch for pickpockets especially during rush hour and at tourist stations. Keep bags closed and in front of you. Avoid empty cars late at night. The metro is reliable and the best way to get around Paris.

Can I visit Paris with kids?

Absolutely! This paris travel guide recommends kid-friendly activities: Luxembourg Gardens (sailboats, carousel), Jardin d’Acclimatation (amusement park), Cité des Sciences (science museum), and River Seine cruises. Many museums offer family programs.