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Paris Travel Guide

Art, cafes, boulevards and the Seine

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Paris suits short city breaks and longer culture-focused trips. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame are famous, but many visitors also enjoy walking the neighbourhoods, markets and cafes. The city is compact and well served by the Metro.

Best time
April to June and September to October are popular for mild weather. July and August can be hot, and some local businesses close in August. December is popular for Christmas lights.
Weather
Temperate: mild springs and autumns, warm summers, cool and damp winters.
Daily budget
Rough estimates per person per day, excluding flights: about $120-200 budget to mid-range and $400+ for luxury. Check current rates when you book.
Hotels · Booking.com

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Compare hotels, villas and guesthouses with free cancellation on most rooms.

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Why go

Museums and landmarks

The Louvre, Musee d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower.

Food

Bakeries, bistros and markets.

Walkable

Compact neighbourhoods and good public transport.

Where to stay

Le Marais

Historic district with boutiques and cafes. See stays in Le Marais

Montmartre

Hilltop neighbourhood with the Sacre-Coeur. See stays in Montmartre

Saint-Germain-des-Pres

Classic cafes and bookshops. See stays in Saint-Germain-des-Pres

Top sights and things to do

Louvre Museum

Book timed tickets ahead.

Eiffel Tower

Tickets sell out in peak season.

Seine river cruise

An easy introduction to the city.

Walk along the Seine

Free and central.

Visit a market

Fresh food and local atmosphere.

Day trip to Versailles

Palace and gardens by train.

Tours & tickets · GetYourGuide

Tours and skip-the-line tickets in Paris

Small-group tours, entry tickets and day trips, most with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

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Itinerary
Paris in 3 days
See the day-by-day plan
Day trips · Viator

Day trips from Paris

Compare guided excursions by reviews, duration and price.

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Practical tips

  • Book major attractions in advance.
  • Learn a few French phrases.
  • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Shop the trip

FAQs

How many days do I need in Paris?

Three to four days covers the highlights.

When is Paris cheapest?

Winter outside the holidays usually has lower hotel prices.

More in Europe

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