France
Paris: itinerary & travel tips
Paris is easy to enjoy in just a few days, because the major sights are close together and the Metro connects the centre closely. Between the Louvre, Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower you'll find world-class art, architecture and city history in a small area.
Then there's the café and bistro culture, which turns even a stroll along the Seine into an experience. The city is quickly reached by train or plane from Germany, Austria and Switzerland, so it also works well for a long weekend.
Ready-made itineraries
3 days · 28 stops
Paris in 3 days
Three relaxed days in Paris based in the Marais district: arrival and the Marais, then the Louvre and Île de la Cité, and finally architecture and good food on the Rive Gauche before the journey home.
- Day 1Settling into the historic Marais
- Day 2Royal history and Gothic architecture
- Day 3Rive Gauche and architecture
Weekend like a local · 12 stops
Paris: weekend like a local
A relaxed weekend in Paris focused on local cafés, markets and small art venues around the Canal Saint-Martin and the Marais area, without zigzagging across the city.
- Day 1Arriving in the Canal district
- Day 2Art, market and departure
What to see
Eiffel Tower
The city's landmark offers a wide view from the viewing platform, and in the evening it sparkles every hour on the hour.
Louvre
One of the largest art museums in the world, with the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo; plan at least half a day for it.
Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral
The Gothic cathedral on the Île de la Cité was restored after the 2019 fire and is a must again.
Sacré-Cœur
The white basilica on Montmartre offers one of the loveliest views over the city.
Musée d'Orsay
The former railway station houses one of the best Impressionist collections, with Monet, Degas and Van Gogh.
Jardin du Luxembourg
The park in the Latin Quarter is ideal for a break with a view of the palace and fountains.
Where to stay
Le Marais
For anyone who wants to stay centrally, enjoy strolling, and reach cafés, boutiques and museums on foot.
Latin Quarter / Saint-Germain-des-Prés
For first-time visitors looking for classic Parisian atmosphere, bookshops and bistros close to the Seine and the Luxembourg Gardens.
Montmartre
For romantics who like hilly lanes and views and prefer a quieter neighbourhood in the evening.
Canal Saint-Martin
For anyone interested in a relaxed nightlife, bars and street cafés away from the main tourist crowds.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is April to June, as well as September and October: it's mild, the parks are in bloom or changing colour, and the days are long. July and August are often hot and crowded, many locals are on holiday, and some small shops close. Around Christmas the city is atmospheric, but hotels are more expensive. If you want to avoid queues and high prices, steer clear of high summer and public holiday weeks where possible.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr ✓
- May ✓
- Jun ✓
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep ✓
- Oct ✓
- Nov
- Dec
Getting there
The main airports are Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). From CDG you take the RER B regional train into the centre in about 35 to 50 minutes, which costs roughly 12 to 15 euros. From Germany and Switzerland you can also arrive comfortably by train, for example on a TGV or ICE, usually at Gare de l'Est or Gare du Nord; from Frankfurt or Stuttgart it takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, from Zurich about 4 hours.
Getting around
The Metro network is dense, and you can reach many highlights in the centre on foot. For short stays a day pass or multi-journey ticket is worthwhile, or alternatively the Navigo Easy card, which you can top up. Check in advance which zones you need, especially for the airport and Versailles.
Daily budget
budget
€60
mid-range
€130
per person, without accommodation. Accommodation and restaurant meals in the evening are expensive, but bakeries, markets and parks are cheap, and many museums are free or discounted for young people.
Local tips
- Book tickets for the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre online in advance with a fixed time slot to avoid long queues.
- For a good lunch, many bistros offer a set lunch menu (formule) that is much cheaper than in the evening.
- When entering shops and cafés, greet people with a quick Bonjour; it is expected and improves the welcome you get.
- Watch out for pickpockets on the Metro and at tourist spots, and carry valuables in front of your body.
FAQ
How many days do you need for Paris?
Three days are plenty for the main sights. With four days you have time for another museum, Montmartre or a trip to Versailles.
Where is the best place to stay in Paris?
For first-time visitors, Le Marais and the Latin Quarter are ideal, because you can reach a lot on foot. Montmartre is quieter and charming, but has longer journeys into the city centre.
Is Paris expensive?
Yes, hotels and dinners in particular cost more than in many other cities. You can save with set lunch menus, bakeries and free walks.
How do I get from the airport to the city?
From Charles de Gaulle Airport you take the RER B directly into the centre; from Orly Airport you take Metro line 14 or a tram and bus. The journey usually takes 30 to 50 minutes.
Is Paris safe for tourists?
Generally yes, but pickpocketing is common at sights and on the Metro. Service is included in the price; a few euros extra for good service is optional.
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