Paris City Guide

Paris is a city on every traveller’s radar and for good reason. The City of Light is dripping in history, culture and beauty, and is home to more iconic monuments than we can count. Visit Paris to wander postcard-perfect alleyways, cosy up at charming terraced cafes and explore some of the finest art on earth.

To make your visit all the more memorable, here’s our guide to the ever-romantic city of Paris.

Where to go

Eiffel Tower – The first stop on any Paris itinerary should be the Eiffel Tower. Ascend to the top of this iconic structure for 360-degree views over the city. For a different vantage point, grab a baguette and bottle of wine from a nearby market and enjoy a picnic in front of the tower.

The Louvre – As the world’s largest art museum, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of galleries at the Louvre. Once home to royalty, the Louvre now accommodates over 35,000 pieces of art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s famed Mona Lisa.

Champ-Elysees – Considered the world’s most beautiful avenue, the Champs-Elysees is lined with luxury boutiques and cafes. At the end of the Champs-Elysees, find the instantly recognisable Arc de Triomphe, which affords another beautiful view of Paris – one with the Eiffel Tower in it!

Les Catacombes – Discover a different side of Paris by heading underground. The Les Catacombes is a labyrinth of former mine tunnels that house the remains of over six million Parisians. While a little spooky, this unique site invites you to recall the city’s fascinating past.

What to eat

Croissants – There’s no better way to start your day in Paris than with coffee and croissants. These perfectly flaky pastries are everywhere in Paris and are available in a variety of flavours. Choose one that’s stuffed with French cheese or live on the sweeter side with a pain au chocolat.

Escargot – Those with adventurous tastebuds need to try escargot. Typically served as an appetiser, these French-style cooked snails are smothered in parsley and garlic butter and served inside its shell. Don’t knock it before you try it.

Onion Soup – It doesn’t get much cosier than a warm bowl of French onion soup. Found on the menu of all good brasseries, this rich soup is made of beef broth and caramelised onions, topped with melted cheese and bread.

Macarons – It’s no secret that Paris is a dessert lover’s paradise. Be sure to stop by a patisserie to pick up some macarons, a sweet meringue-based confection that almost looks like a cookie sandwich. Popular macaron flavours include chocolate, strawberry and pistachio.

How to get around

To and from the airport – There are numerous ways to get to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Opt for a 30-minute taxi ride, available at a flat rate of €50 to the right bank and €55 to the left bank of the Seine. The RER B Train is another easy option, running every 10-15 minutes and costing just €10.30.

Around the city – Paris has an extensive public transportation system, making exploration a breeze. The easiest (and often the quickest) way to get around Paris is by train, with countless metro and RER stops throughout the city.