Touted as the ‘world’s most romantic city’, people from all over the world flock to Paris at least once in their lives to experience the signature Paris romance that they dream of.
Paris is also filled with many famous tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, beautiful cathedrals, museums, and of course, the best food the world can offer. It’s also considered as a shopper’s haven and is also known for its distinct fashion.
How to Get There
There are several airports in Paris but if you are an international traveler, it’s most likely that you will land in the Charles de Gaulle Airport. Also known as Roissy Airport, it is the largest airport in France and the second largest in Europe. The airport is located within portions of several communes to the northeast of Paris making it accessible to all different types of travelers from all over the world.
From the airport to the city, there are many options available for tourists. This includes taxi, train, bus, and Le Bus. Taking the taxi is the easiest and most convenient way to travel from the airport to the city. However, it is not the most cost-efficient option. Booking in advance, however, helps you get a better fixed price.
Taking the train is a fast and cheap transfer option. The RER B train runs from the airport ever 10 to 20 minutes and takes about 50 minutes to get you to the city centre.
You may also take the bus to the city but expect more travel time. The journey takes about 80 minutes. However, it offers the best priced one. You can choose from three bus lines including the Roissybus, which is the most direct line. Le Bus is another option and makes three stops around the city.
Getting Around
Before choosing your mode of transportation, you must understand that Paris is divided into twenty arrondissements that offer a unique flavor to the city. As such, there are many options when it comes to going around in Paris. It will depend on your budget and your preference.
Paris boasts about the world’s most extensive yet most reliable metro subway system. There is the option of the commuter express (“RER”) and buses. You may also make use of ride-sharing apps as well as the traditional taxis.
Things to Do
Of course, what is a trip to Paris without visiting the Eiffel Tower? Standing at 324 meters tall, the Eiffel Tower can be enjoyed in many ways. For one thing, there are many opportunities to see it from all angles, but it also allows you to see the city in a whole new perspective.
The Louvre Museum was the world’s most visited museum in 2017 when it welcomed 8 million visitors. The former royal palace holds some of the most iconic pieces of history including Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa painting. It is a massive building so make sure that you plan your visit before you arrive. Downloading the app will help you plan your day.
Visiting Champs Elysees will be a treat especially since its conveniently located next to another top attraction, the Arc de Triomphe. It’s a beautiful sight that should be in your to-do list in Paris!
Meanwhile, Palais Garnier is perfect for the art lover. It is featured in the Phantom of the Opera book and musical and the building is an experience. The grand massive staircase, its painted ceilings, and massive foyer are the things you shouldn’t miss on your visit.
By the way, you’ll also have a chance to see a Pantheon when in Paris. Located in the Latin Quarter, the building was originally built as a church. It is now the famous resting place to Paris’ most famous scientists and faces.
Lastly, fall in love with the Seine River that has inspired countless songs, books, and tales. If you have the chance, you can also take this opportunity to have a picnic and just enjoy the Parisian vibe.
What to Eat
Paris is beaming not just with beautiful tourist spots but an eclectic array of food selection. This includes everything from Michelin restaurants to the world’s best pastry shops and bakeries.
Pastry shops like Stohrer are one of the oldest bakeries in Paris and one that you must try when you visit. The place not only boasts of the best Kouign-Amann (among other pastries) but also a beautiful interior. You can also try Du Pain Et Des Idees. It’s another beautiful Parisian bakery that is known for homemade bread, croissants, and the pistachio escargot.
Paris is also known for its casual food and breakfast spots. Have you ever dreamed of having breakfast in one of the streets of Paris? Now you can! You can start with L’as Du Fallafel, which is the most famous falafel shop in the Marais District. Another place you can consider is the Holybelly which is a trendy, social media-worthy café. The place is known for its pancakes and egg dishes.
Nightlife
While the nightlife in Paris is quite different from neighboring Berlin or London, you can still find fun ways to party. Others often start with a drink in The Ritz at Place Vendome and would soon travel to different districts to experience different types of nightlife. With its many cultures available, there’s a different kind to enjoy. Some of the places to check out include Café Charbon, Au Chat Noir, and Nouveau Casino.
Where to Stay
Paris hotels range from luxurious to cost-effective depending on your personality and travel goals. As mentioned earlier, the city of Paris is divided into 20 different neighborhoods which they call,
“arrondissements”. This gives travelers a wide variety of hotels in Paris to stay in.
The 7th arrondissement is a popular destination because it features its most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower. This is a residential area that features many elegant and luxurious hotels in Paris. The neighborhood is perfect for families since its focus is the sights. Luxurious hotels in this neighborhood include Hotel Juliana Paris and Hotel & Spa de Latour Maubourg.
For the in-between luxury and budget hotels in Paris, you can try Hotel Residence Montebello and Hotel Le Pavillon.
On the other hand, the 1st arrondissement or “le premier (the first)” to the locals, is the centre of the city. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city and is located near the Seine river. If you wish to stay close to everything, this is the best place to go! Paris hotels in this area include everything from luxurious such as La Clef Louvre, Hotel De Vendome, and Citadines Les Halles Paris for the mid-budget traveler. Budget travelers can enjoy the Hotel Agora and Hotel Flor Rivoli.
Travel Tips
• Paris generally has mild weather during most of the year however it can get extremely cold between November and February and extremely hot around July and August.
• Be aware that cafes and shops are more expensive when they’re near tourist attractions so walk a little to save a little money!
• Ride the Paris metro like a pro by researching its routes ahead of time and understanding its endpoints.