There is no other city like Paris. It is brimming with beauty, history, and culture. While many visitors come to Paris to visit the Louvre, scale the Eiffel Tower, or view Notre-Dame, the city's true magic may be experienced on its streets. Here, the ins and outs of everyday life are on display. Chic women on bikes ride their kids to school, artists set up shop in coffee shops with a notebook, and both young and old people wait in line morning and night for a hot baguette from the local bakery.
Given that Paris is a city with a strong cultural identity and that it is home to people from all over the world, who bring their own cultures and customs to the mix, it is probably all you anticipated and then more. This is why a trip to Paris' most popular attractions is insufficient; instead, wander the streets to experience the city's true spirit and allure.
As you wander the streets of Paris, you might find yourself strolling the Montmartre hills in quest of the ideal crepe location or meandering through Belleville, a Chinese enclave dotted with stylish, young Parisians and ornate murals. You might be taking in an all-too-early verre du wine at a café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés or exploring the Latin Quarter across the Seine. It doesn't take much to become completely engrossed in this unique metropolis.
Take a time to browse through our Paris travel guide, where we highlight our favorite local hangouts, must-do activities, and top accommodations, to make sure you don't miss anything.
Time Zone
GMT+1, Central European Standard Time
Ideal Time to Visit
A trip to Paris in the spring or summer is unbeatable when the city is bustling with activity, the weather is pleasant, and everyone is enjoying themselves. A trip in August, when most Parisians are on vacation, is hard to beat if you want to avoid the crowds, but be ready for some restaurant and store closures. All you need is a few more layers to make Paris shine, even in the winter when the skies are often gloomy and the temperatures are low.
Transportation Paris
Trains are the simplest (and frequently fastest) means of transportation in the city. Paris has RER and metro stops all around the city, with one-way fares costing about $2. Passes for one day and several days start at $14.
Buses: The above-ground bus network is a fantastic alternative to the Paris train network. It is frequently used to connect metro stations that are farther apart and costs about $2 for one trip.
Taxis: There are many taxi services in Paris, but G7 is a wonderful pick because it takes credit cards and has a dedicated app. In Paris, Uber is also present.
Car service: Use the services provided by firms like Paris Black Cars or Blacklane if you feel more comfortable scheduling your airport pickup in advance.
Paris Neighborhoods
Le Marais, located in the third arrondissement, is difficult to surpass. It is conveniently placed, offers a wide variety of shops, galleries, and cafés, as well as delicious food (don't miss the falafel at L'As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers). Along with having a ton to do, the area has an unquestionably charming atmosphere, with winding cobblestone alleys dotted with historic buildings and secret courtyards.
Montmartre, in the 18th arrondissement, has long served as a home and source of inspiration for artists, including Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and Pablo Picasso, and it continues to do so today. There are hip cafés, cobblestone streets, historic structures, and breathtaking city views from the Sacré-Coeur stairs.
The Sorbonne University is located in the Latin Quarter, in the 5th arrondissement, so as you might anticipate, you'll see students wandering the streets and studying in trendy cafes. Numerous historic structures and places, including jazz clubs, bars, and venerable eateries, may be found here.
5th arrondissement, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis: These two islands can be found on the Seine river right in the centre of Paris. Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle are located on the ancient island of Île de la Cité, while Île Saint-Louis, which is more sedate, contains stores and eateries dotted throughout its old houses and streets.
6th arrondissement of Saint-Germain-des-Prés: This neighborhood is probably exactly as you expected Paris to be, with its winding cobblestone alleys, breathtakingly adorable café patios, and fancy shops. There may not be a finer location to enjoy a glass of wine and people watching.
If you're searching for a different side of Paris than what you'll find in the tourist-heavy neighborhoods down south, come to Belleville in the 20th arrondissement. There is bright street art all over the buildings, the food is less expensive (and possibly better), and Chinatown meets hipster town here.
Best Hotels Paris
We have a few segments, according to your search. The best Hotels in Paris are:
Weather in Paris
Spring: Spring is when Paris comes to life, but temperatures can still be chilly (high 50s to upper 60s) and there may be light rain.
Summer: June and July are wonderful (though busy) months to visit Paris, with the summer months being the peak travel period. The city will be a little less bustling in August because many Parisians take their own holiday.
Autumn: With temps ranging from the low 40s to the mid 50s and a few rainy days per month, autumn in Paris can be rather lovely.
Winter: Although the winter months in Paris can be gloomy and cold (and occasionally even dusted with snow! ), it's the best season to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and dress in layers, which always looks super-chic.