What to see and do in Paris
Best time to fly to Paris
With its wealth of museums, restaurants, and cultural sights, Paris is a great city to visit year-round.
When it comes to booking flights, the best time to fly to Paris varies based on what you want to get out of your trip.
The busiest periods are during the warmer months between June and September, as well as all of December. So be sure to book well in advance if you plan on traveling then.
You can beat the crowds by booking airline tickets to Paris in April or October when the weather is still fairly warm but it’s less busy than in the peak season.
Traveling on a budget? The cost of flights to Paris, France tend to be lowest in November.
Getting around Paris (and beyond)
Paris is a city famous for its seamless and interconnected metro system, making it easy to discover the city.
There’s also a public bus network, and taxi apps such as Uber and Lyft are worth downloading before you arrive.
The city is also a great base from which to explore more of France, and some travelers choose to take a domestic flight to areas such as Toulouse in the South of France.
Paris is home to 7 major train stations, all servicing different areas of the country, as well as other European cities. With so many options, it’s a great place to start your French vacation.
Must see things in Paris
When it comes to activities and tourist spots, there’s plenty to choose from in the City of Love.
Travelers can enjoy views for miles from the Eiffel Tower, or peruse stained-glass perfection at Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the iconic latin quarter of the city.
Alternatively, take a trip to see the ethereal Mona Lisa at the Louvre, browse artist stalls and watch buskers at Montmartre, or take a boat trip along the Seine.
Taking a day trip to the gilded treasures of Versailles is also highly recommended. And how could we forget the stunning Arc de Triomphe? It’s a monument that symbolizes an important time in French history.
Activities to do in Paris
When you need a break from sightseeing, you can find a shady spot in the Jardin du Luxembourg, or look for smaller museums and galleries away from the tourist-heavy headline acts.
Shopping – or browsing – is also an excellent Parisian pastime.
Fashion is, of course, synonymous with Paris, and many of the world's great designers call the city home. But it’s not all about the designer scene.
There are also countless street markets, vintage boutiques, and department stores to explore between checking out the major sights.
Eat and drink the Parisian way
There's talk that the French invented restaurants as we know them today - and that they've been perfecting the art since.
And there really is something for everyone.
You can browse markets for the finest picnic supplies and feast your eyes on the bright and colorful creations in Parisian patisseries.
Choose to dine at a classic neighborhood bistro, or don your finest wares to enjoy first-class dining in the city.
Where to eat in Paris
It's best to avoid the overly touristy spots and hone in on local bistros for fine plates of classic French cuisine.
If you're after fine dining and Michelin stars, you're in the right city - but be warned that you’ll need to book ahead!
If fine dining isn’t your thing, you can't go wrong with a crusty baguette, some French cheese, maybe some wine, and a picnic rug. Head to Parc Monceau to enjoy your cozy picnic with a gorgeous leafy view.
Head to Parc Monceau to enjoy your cozy picnic with a gorgeous leafy view.
