Last updated: May 23, 2023

Paris is a wonderful city, however it can also be a bit overwhelming, particularly for first time visitors. Many people dream of going to Paris their whole lives, and want to have the perfect trip when they finally arrive. So, if you’re visiting Paris, what exactly should you do while you’re there?

This list should spark some inspiration. After five visits to the city of love and lights, I thought it was time to write a blog post about it. Don’t worry about trying to see everything while in Paris, you don’t need to see much to have a wonderful trip and get that Parisian immersion you’re craving. Prioritize your interests and aim to get a nice mix of classic and more local experiences.

Without further ado, feel free to read this list, pick out your favorites, and create your own dream Paris itinerary. Here is a map highlighting all of the following places, and you’ll find FAQs at the end of this post.

1. Find the best view of the Eiffel Tower

The first glimpse of the tower after arriving in Paris is always so magical. Continuing to see one of the world’s most famous landmarks throughout your time in Paris is just as awe-inspiring. The vast majority of buildings in Paris are significantly smaller than the tower so there are areas of the city where it feels like you’re seeing her at every corner.

If you’re looking for an especially nice view of the tower, hit up one of these following spots:

Av. de New York: Head to the 16th arrondisement and walk along the Av. de New York. The street will be busy with tourists passing trying to take photos and get a view of the tower. To appreciate the view in a more spacious and less busy environment simply walk down one of the sets of stairs to get to the long open platform by the dock and take in a pristine view of the tower.
Av. de Camoens: Not too far from Av. de New York is Av. de Camoens, a quiet street in the 16th arrondisement perfect for getting an uninterrupted view of the monument framed by a few Parisian buildings.

Find a list of my favorite places to view the tower here.

Eiffel Tower view from the lower level of Av. de New York

2. Get an elevated view of Paris

Many people opt to walk up the Eiffel Tower their first visit to Paris. I did the same! It’s easy to understand why, the close-up view of the iron is very cool and it’s a classic experience in Paris.

However, if you’re hoping for a knockout view of the city, it’s not too impressive. Why? Because the best skyline views of Paris include the Eiffel Tower, and you can’t enjoy a view of the Eiffel Tower when you’re on the Eiffel Tower.

No need to worry, there are plenty of appealing spots for admiring Paris’ cityscape. The terrace at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a free and central spot for a nice city view. Trekking up to Sacré -Cœur is also free and will reward you with a wonderful wide and open view of the city.

3. Discover the winding streets and alleyways of Montmartre

Montmartre is a magnificent neighborhood where you can find iconic buildings like the Moulin Rouge and Sacré-Cœur. When initially arriving in Montmartre it may seem overly touristy and crowded. The main streets are, but walking deeper through the winding hills of this artists’ district will feel otherwise.

Enter Montmartre by walking up Rue Lepic, just past the Moulin Rouge. Turn left on Rue Cauchois to enter a beautiful and quieter street in the neighborhood. From here walk to Boris Lumé Boulangerie and be greeted by a decorative interior and delicious affordable pastries. After this reenter main Montmartre via Av. Junot. Wander around this quieter part of the neighborhood before heading up the Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

As you walk up Rue de l’Abreuvoir you’ll encounter two of Paris’ most famous cafés: La Maison Rose and Le Consulat. Not so much known for their food (although it could be good, I’ve never ate there), but rather their picturesque setting and delightful design. At this point you might pass by Place du Tertre, a plaza for artists and buskers, and Rue Saint-Rustique, the oldest street in the neighborhood.

For food in this neighborhood I recommend getting crêpes at Breizh Café or La Crêperie mon ami, and for an intimate sit down spot I’ve heard really great things about Le Petit Moulin. I only passed by the Autour du Moulin, but it looks like a nice place to snag a terrace spot and have a picturesque view of the neighborhood with a glass of wine.

This hilly area is really meant to be explored so allow yourself to get lost in the streets. To avoid crowds come earlier in the day or in the late afternoon and early evening. It really is an almost magical neighborhood.

4. Walk up to Sacré-Cœur

I can’t talk about Montmartre without talking about the graceful basilica: Sacré-Cœur. Meaning ‘sacred heart,’ this beautiful church is not just the heart of the neighborhood, but perhaps of the whole city.

As previously mentioned, it’s a lovely place to get fantastic views of the city, and is one of the most popular places to enjoy a sunset in Paris. Be careful because this neighborhood does get a bit dodgy in the evenings so this magical hour doesn’t last long.

I prefer to come up the western side of the church and walk through the hilly neighborhood of Montmartre and then go down the eastern side to avoid walking up the steep stairs.

5. Try real Champagne at Ma Cave Fleury

If there’s a place to try champagne in town, it’s certainly Ma Cave Fleury. They specialize in biodynamic (organic) wines and champagne. The bar is intimate, rustic, and inviting, and run by some sweet locals off a warm street in Paris. Go for a champagne tasting flight or try a glass of natural wine.

6. Have a picnic after a stop at a boulangerie and fromagerie

The Champ de Mars is an excellent spot for a picnic! Although a popular spot, you can’t miss this close-up view of the tower. On Rue Cler Market Street and the surrounding area you can find shops selling all the ingredients you need for a classic Parisian picnic. Wherever you are be sure to hit up some kind of fromagerie (cheese shop) and boulangerie (bakery) for ingredients.

A perfect French picnic for me consists of a baguette, fresh cheese (preferably soft, but hard is good too!), and wine. Add something salty (nuts or cured meat) and sweet (berries or chocolate) to really be in heaven.

7. Find the best croissants in town

Du Pain et des Idées is well known for having arguably the best croissants in all of Paris. On busier days they’ll often run out of croissants by midday. Even if they’re out of croissants, their other pastries have just as much heart and quality, and their pistachio escargot (referring to the rolled-shape of the bread, not actual snails) is also a must order.

Previously mentioned, the Boris Lumé Boulangerie has perfectly flaky croissants, and immaculate pain au chocolat. They were my favorite croissant spot on my most recent visit. The prices were also very fair, just €1.30 for a croissant.

8. Try a macaron or two

Ladurée is a well known French macaron shop, with several international stores. They have a couple shops in Paris, and I quite like their store on Rue Bonaparte. Despite being a chain, the quality is still there, and it’s exceptionally nice for their wide range of flavors.

However, I’d also recommend trying the macarons sold at A.Lacroix Patisserie. They offer just a few classic flavors, but what they offer is very tasty and rich in flavor. These macarons are also handmade, rather than machine made, but the imperfections are part of the charm.

If you’re a fan of macarons definitely try both shops and compare the taste. If you have time for just one spot, go to A.Lacroix.

9. Try even more pastries and French bread

You don’t need another reminder, but here’s one anyway.

Past the well-known macarons, baguettes, croissants, and éclairs, France is a dream for pastry and bread lovers. Although there are many wonderful spots throughout the city three that stick out to me are Maison Landemaine Oberkampf, A.Lacroix, and Eric Kayser.

Maison Landemaine Oberkampf is a patisserie that we stumbled across looking for pastries in the area. Everything we had here was so tasty, especially the crème brûlée. The staff was also quite friendly and it was a cute area to enjoy espresso and pastries. There are a few throughout the city as well.

A.Lacroix doesn’t just serve macarons, they also serve an amazing assortment of cake, mousse, tarte, and more. Their pastries are beautifully crafted, and it really is the place to try decadent sweets in Paris.

Eric Kayser is a chain, but the boulangeries at Rue Monge 14 and 5 Pl. de la Bourse sell very good breads and pastries, especially savory ones. Stop in for lunch and try a sandwich or quiche, and finish up with an equally tasty dessert.

10. Walk along the Coulée verte René-Dumont

This tree-lined walkway is an elevated former railway above the 12th arrondisement of Paris. The best part about it is when you’re on the streets below you can’t tell that it exists above unless you know what to look for. On the walkway you’ll get lovely views of the neighborhood and the surrounding rooftops. The stairway entrance does close by late afternoon each day, so be sure to come earlier in the day if you’re curious.

11. Visit the Eiffel Tower at night

The Eiffel Tower is wondrous in the day, and somehow even more marvelous at night. After sunset, the tower lights up and additionally sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour, until 1AM, when the lights sparkle for an additional five minutes. It’s really phenomenal, especially up close, so definitely make a point to catch the sparkling lights one night. If you can only fit in one visit the tower come around sunset for an early evening picnic then catch the first sparkle of the night at the next hour.

12. Go on a night stroll along the Seine

The Seine is truly special at night. Less crowded and more romantic as the city lights up, a stroll along the Seine is a sweet way to spend your evening. For a longer walk start around Île de la Cité and end at the Eiffel Tower, and for a shorter walk start at Pont Alexander III. Alternatively you can take an evening river cruise if your feet are already exhausted from a day of walking.

After exploring the Île de la Cité cozy up somewhere along the historic riverbank and enjoy the view along the river Seine. Even better with a bottle of wine!

13. Visit a fromagerie

Cheese from a fromagerie must be experienced at some point on your trip. There are shops all over the city so take your pick. If you’re unsure about what kind of cheeses you might like or if you’re not very familiar with French cheeses you can ask the shop owner or do a little research beforehand.

My personal favorites are brie which is a creamy and soft cheese, comté which is a nutty and hard cheese, and crotin which is a type of decadent creamy goat cheese.

14. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is a long avenue starting at the Place de la Concorde and ending at the Arc de Triomphe. It’s sometimes called the most beautiful street in the world, but I honestly don’t think it’s even the nicest street in the neighborhood. It’s mainly chain shops and luxury stores.

However, because it’s so well known it is worth a gander, or even a stroll if you’re passing through the area, but not much more.

15. Try a sweet and savory crêpe

Crêpes are potentially my favorite French food. Buttery and warm, or savory and satiating, it’s hard to go wrong. For sweet crêpes go anywhere where the crêpes are being freshly made, like La Crêperie Mon Ami in the Montmartre neighborhood or sold from a cart in places like Île de la Cité.

In the Latin Quarter I recommend Crêperie Mouffetard. The crêpes are made earlier in the day out of buckwheat, and they offer many types of savory fillings. The sauces are also incredible, and the price is excellent, especially for the portion size. Plus, the staff is so friendly. In the 11th arrondisement I like the local chain Crêperie Elo, and in the 4th arrondisement visit La crêperie des Rosiers for simple, yet tasty crêpes sold by the sweetest elderly Frenchman.

Previously mentioned, for a more trendy spot that keeps its Parisian charm visit Breizh Café. Here you’ll find crêpes that beautifully combine French and Japanese flavors. I visited their location in Montmartre and really enjoyed my savory dish paired with wasabi salad. If we weren’t so full we would have tried their salted caramel crêpe, but there’s always next time. The location is really lovely so be sure to get an outdoor seat if you can. Be aware that their closest metro stop is Abbesses which involves a lot of stairs, 8 flights of them to be precise.

Crêperie Mouffetard in the Latin Quarter

16. Make yourself at home at Le Pavillon des Canaux

This colorful café welcomes you to make yourself at home in their apartment themed café. Wandering around this café will feel like you’re visiting the flat of your cool and trendy friend who moved to Paris. The best part is picking a seat, choose between their diamond print kitchen, one of their vibrant living rooms, their picturesque terrace, or inside the tub in their plant-filled bathroom. You can visit for drinks in the evening, and food and coffee in the daytime. They also have more vegan options than your average spot in Paris, which is also nice!

17. Visit the Louvre

First time visitors who appreciate art museums and have the time for it really should visit the Louvre. It’s the world’s largest and most visited museum. Set aside at least a few hours, and don’t feel pressured to see everything, just prioritize the exhibits you’re most interested in. The Mona Lisa is a must, however small the painting is, it’s still fascinating to see such a famous piece of artwork.

My favorite art pieces in the Louvre are the hand-painted ceilings. This ornate ceiling art is striking and spectacular, and really such an incredible part of the whole experience. So don’t forget to look up when entering each room.

A ticket to the Louvre is €17 if purchased online, and €15 in person, although you’re not guaranteed a spot that day. Certain individuals are also eligible for free tickets depending on factors like age, residency, and occupation.

18. Shop around at Bouquinistes and street markets along the Seine

These Bouquinistes originated in the 1500s traveling around and selling books and goods. In the mid-1800s Paris allowed for there to be fixed stands, and eventually these riverside bookshops were declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Today these sellers can be found all along the Seine, especially in the Latin Quarter. They also sell other goods like art prints and traditional souvenirs.

19. Grab lunch at La Grande Epicerie de Paris

There are a couple locations throughout Paris, but the best one is in the 6th arrondisement. This gourmet grocery store has a food hall, pastry shops, freshly prepared food, fresh ingredients, and more. They have every kind of French cheese imaginable, and the quality is clear with the food. Many items are pricier, but there are still reasonably priced items throughout the market. It’s also a nice place to find a souvenir or two!

20. Discover the food markets in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is a superb place for foodies. They’re known for their many crêpe shops, but their farmers’ and food markets are just as outstanding. Some popular ones include Rue Mouffetard Market, Marche Maubert, and Marché Monge. My favorite of the bunch is probably Marché Monge and 90% of the reason behind that is because of the delicious galettes sold here. I had a chicken lemon variation and just. . . wow. If you’re in the area, I couldn’t recommend them more! Further south in the 14th arrondisement there’s Marche Auguste-Blanqui, which is more of a farmer’s market and especially great for produce.

21. Visit the Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens have to be one of the most relaxing places in the city. Head towards the pond and palace (near the center of the park) and take a seat in one of the hundreds of classic Parisian green chairs. Some of these steel chairs have arm rests or a reclined back, but they’re all painted in RAL 6013 green.

They were purchased in the thousands by the Parisian government and spread across three parks in the city. Although they’re laid out all throughout the park, I find that sitting in an area with a view of the pond is the most serene. It’s a nice place to soak in the sun and pass time the Parisian way.

If you have extra time check out the historic Fontaine Médicis fountain. There are also other fountains in the park that offer cold water to refill your bottle.

22. Pass time people watching at a classic Parisian café

You can have this experience at cafés all over the city, but here are a few cafés that are especially iconic (no promises about how good their coffee is though):

Café de Flore: This café is both rich in beauty and history.
La Maison Rose: This pretty pink café with green accents and shrubbery is located on a hilly corner of Montmartre.
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole: Located on a quiet street on Île de la Cité, take a seat on one of their bright fuchsia chairs after roaming the island.

23. Walk along the Alexandre III Bridge

One of the most striking bridges in Paris, especially in the evening as the lamps turn on. This is a beautiful place to enjoy sunset and get a view of the gleaming Eiffel Tower when it’s lit up at night.

24. See the Arc de Triomphe and the ‘busiest traffic circle in the world’

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon I two years after he took power to celebrate his victories. Now, it’s an iconic monument located on the western end of the Champs-Élysées.

It’s oriented in the center of a twelve lane traffic circle, sometimes called the ‘busiest traffic circle in the world.’ It’s admittedly very entertaining to watch the chaos of cars trying to enter and exit the circle, and you can always spot that one tourist that took a horribly wrong turn into the traffic circle.

If you’re interested in seeing more of the monument you can pay €13 to walk the steps leading to the top to get a panoramic view of Paris.

25. Visit the Musée d'Orsay

The Louvre is, of course, the top choice for most museum lovers in Paris, but if you have the time for it the Musée d’Orsay is also a very impressive art museum. They house mostly French art, from a diverse range of style and periods.

The museum was built in the former Gare d'Orsay train station. Be sure to visit the fifth floor of the building to get a look at their epic clock which overlooks the Seine. Entry costs €16 for most people, but you might also qualify for their reduced or free rates.

26. Walk around the Le Marais neighborhood

Paris is already known for its beauty, and Le Marais has to be one of the prettiest areas in all of Paris. Previously the city’s Jewish Quarter, this neighborhood’s charm feels authentically Parisian and is known for its pre-revolutionary buildings and classic charm. There’s not many big things to do in this neighborhood other than wander around, feast, and get lost, and that’s part of the appeal.

If you’re unsure about which part of the neighborhood to explore the Place des Vosges is a picturesque park, and the Rue de Sévigné is pleasant and one of the main streets in the neighborhood. Marché des Enfants Rouges is a very cute outdoor food market with plenty of clustered eateries that you can grab a bite to eat. Oh and you have to visit Sacha Finkelsztajn, a Jewish bakery serving incredible sandwiches and baked goods in this cute and bustling part of town. Try the challah!

27. Sip on the best Chocolat Chaud at Angelina

The Chocolat Chaud I had at Angelina has to be the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had. I’ve also tried Carette, also known as the other famous hot chocolate spot in town, and Angelina’s hot chocolate is simply better in every way. It’s not cheap (€8.20 per serving), but a delicious experience. You can have the option of milk or white chocolate, and the drink is served with a serving of cream. The location on Rue de Rivoli down the street from the Louvre is their finest location so if you’re going to visit go there. They open between 8 and 8:30AM most days so I suggest visiting in the morning time (perhaps before your trip to the Louvre) to avoid waiting for a table. You can also get the hot chocolate to go for a more affordable and quicker experience, and drink it at the park across the street, but definitely at least take a peak at the lovely 100-year old tea room.

28. Walk around Rue Montorgueil

Rue Montorgueil is located in the 1st arrondisement and 2nd arrondisement of Paris. It’s known for having attractive boutiques, restaurants, shops, and produce stands. Part of this street and its surrounding streets are pedestrian only, making it a noteworthy pocket of the city to stroll around and take in all the little details.

29. Stop at Shakespeare and Company

This independent English bookstore is well-known for attracting many now famous authors throughout the mid-20th century like Richard Wright, Henry Miller, and James Baldwin. It’s a utopia for book lovers and a resting place for struggling authors. Since it opened in 1951, around 30,000 aspiring writers have stayed in exchange for helping out around the shop.

It’s a must visit for writers, and an interesting place for fans of English literature. Pop in to pick up a new or used book, have a snack at their adjoining café, or to simply take a look around at the many wondrous details.

30. Stroll around the Panthéon

When exploring the Latin Quarter make a stop at this 18th century mausoleum, now the resting place of notable French citizens. It’s worth a quick visit just to admire the grand architecture. The Panthéon has also strongly influenced American architecture and therefore might remind you a bit of various political buildings throughout the US like the United States Capitol.

31. Explore the Île de la Cité

The Île de la Cité is an island on the Seine filled with historical landmarks. The most well known is of course Notre Dame. Although the fire from 2016 means the cathedral is currently under construction in 2022, you can still appreciate the outside of it and read about its history and the results of the damage that took place.

Saint-Chapelle is also located on this urban island. This 13th-century chapel can be appreciated from the outside, but in order to really take in the stained glass architecture you need to cough up €11.50 per person. There’s no denying the interior is absolutely beautiful, but I understand if you want to pass.

Walk along the pretty narrow streets of the island like Rue Chanoinesse to see a more relaxed part of the area. Île de la Cité is also a great place to get a sweet crêpe!

32. Discover the 11th arrondisement

This is my favorite neighborhood, and one of the most beautiful areas in the city. It’s very charming, and a wonderful pocket of Paris where you find a diverse mix of eateries by day (Kokotte and Lyoom Cantine come to mind) and fun local nightlife by night. The 11th feels downright Parisian, with what feels like hardly any tourists. We were the only foreigners at many of the eateries we visited in this district. It’s a nice place to roam around and just take in local life.

33. Sample French wine

France as a country produces the second most amount of wine in the world, only after Italy. Drinking wine is a part of the French experience, whether purchased at a restaurant, wine bar, or wine shop.

Le Baron Rouge is a personal favorite of mine, and you’ll be sure to get an intimate experience in this happening place, so come before 5PM if you want a seat. There are always at least a few pretty affordable glasses on the menu, and you can enjoy an authentic charcuterie board as a snack as well.

34. Go out of your culinary comfort zone

Of course croissants and pain au chocolat don’t take much convincing, and you might’ve tried one previously, but what’s something you haven’t tried? France has had one of the biggest impacts on the world’s cuisine, and Paris is the culinary capital of France. Ergo, have at it!

From tartare to oysters to escargot! If you’re at all interested, why not try it in Paris?

Or you can go a safer route and just try a Croque Madame for breakfast (which are delicious by the way).

35. Taste the timeless classic Soupe à l’oignon

Soupe à l’oignon, once a humble peasant dish, is now one of the most well-known French dishes. Le Bistrot des Vosges claims to serve the best in Paris, and I’ve got to say it was pretty damn good. Plus, they also offer lots of other delicious French food in a sweet atmosphere.

36. Admire the Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier may look like just another beautiful Parisian building on the outside, but the inside is fit for kings, and it has to have one of the most special interiors in all of Paris. Tickets for a self-guided tour are €12 or €22 if you want a guided tour. The prices are certainly steep, but if you have extra time and are interested, go for it!

37. Discover Paris’ hidden passageways

Paris’ hidden passageways came to be in the 1800’s. At the time Paris was a very dirty city with unpaved roads, an improper sewer system, and crime caused by political turmoil. These hidden passageways were an escape from all that. These paved and covered streets existed to provide people a place to dine, shop, and be merry in a civilized and coveted environment.

When reaching the end of a passage, Parisians could simply cross the street and head into the next one. Today some are still available to explore, although Paris is of course now in a much better state so they’re not nearly as lively as they once were.

Some of the most well-known passageways include Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas, and Passage Jouffroy.

38. Go thrift shopping

Berets are super duper cute, however they are actually typically more popular with tourists rather than locals (I love seeing people rock them either way). If you want to really get the Parisian look, try thrift shopping in the city! Get the full look by browsing locals’ clothes at more reasonable prices. A local friend of mine suggested Guerrisol (several locations), Episode, and Relique. The latter has a super funky interior, and is more vintage than thrift, but they do have a €1 bin!

39. Take a ride on one of the oldest metro systems in the world

Opened in July 1900, Paris has the fifth oldest metro system in the world. Known for their art nouveau interior and original entrances, this expansive system has seen over 1.5 billion passengers. Their system is fairly easy to figure out, and it’s a practical and cost-effective way to get around the city.

40. Try African food

Immigrants make up a big part of every country’s food and culture, and France’s immigrant population is primarily African, most prominently from Algeria and Morocco. You can find a list of some of the best Algerian and Moroccan restaurants in Paris here and here.

41. Get to know Paris’ lesser known neighborhoods

Paris’ lesser visited eastern neighborhoods are culturally diverse, artsy, and refreshing.

Belleville (meaning beautiful town in French) is known for its street art and historic streets. You’ll find some of the best street art in the city here, and you can walk to the top of the hill at the center of their park for more art and views of the city. La Petite Ceinture is also a unique city park in the neighborhood.

Combat is a neighborhood that’s seen a lot (you might guess this from its name) from bloody executions to forced animal fights to German bombings. Now it’s a hip residential district with plenty of independents restaurants and bars. If you’re in the neighborhood head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Cross the iron bridge to get to the Temple de la Sybille for a view of the city, and then walk to the hilly area around it to have a seat in the grass or on a bench and chill in the park.

The Canal Saint-Martin area is a quieter residential area along a small canal. It’s a nice place to enjoy a quieter part of Paris, plus Du Pain et des Idées (previously mentioned boulangerie specializing in croissants) is in this neighborhood. Worth mentioning, Lavomatic and L’Épicier are also two cool speakeasies that are not too far.

42. Try food from your home country

I always find it so interesting to see how my culture’s cuisine is interpreted in the places I travel to. Sometimes there are even fusion places available so you can enjoy a unique twist of the local culture combined with your own.

For any US Americans (or mac and cheese lovers) reading this, I’ve heard great things about YO’ Mac and Cheese. They basically make American style mac and cheese, using different types of French cheese. How incredible does that sound?! I totally regret not making it a priority to visit them the last time I was in Paris, but there’s always next time! They’re also right by the historic Père Lachaise Cemetery, so you can visit both together.

43. Take a day trip

Many of the best parts of France are outside of Paris. If you don’t have time to make your way to multiple cities around the country, see if you have time for a day trip.

A few options:

Versailles: Certainly the most popular day trip from Paris, and also one of the easiest places to get to outside of the city, as it’s only a 15 minute ride from Montparnasse. The Palace of Versailles is a former royal residence and boasts some of the most spectacular palace grounds in the world. If you’re a fan of castles, this day trip is a must. Tickets to the estate and palace costs €20 per person, unless you qualify for free or reduced admission.
Monet Gardens: The Monet Gardens take about an hour and a half to get to via train from Paris, and entry fees are €13 for adults. These picturesque gardens are the former home of world-renowned artist Claude Monet. Today you can see the nature that inspired his impressionist paintings.
Senlis: Just a 90 minute train ride from Paris sits one of France’s most captivating villages. This small town is brimming with history, incredible architecture, and medieval charm.

What’s next?

Best of luck planning your trip to Paris! Here’s a map of all the locations mentioned in this article.

Interested in extending your Eurotrip? Berlin has convenient flights, trains, and buses from Paris. Start planning your Berlin trip today.

Want to keep planning your Paris trip? Read on below for frequently asked questions.

Paris FAQs:

First time visitors to Paris typically have a few similar questions:

How many days should I spend in Paris?

As many as you’re able to really! It also depends on how much you’re interested in seeing. Two full days at absolute minimum.
For first time visitors, I think five full days is a sweet spot. That gives you time to spend a couple days exploring the major neighborhoods, one day for museums, one day to get to know the lesser known Parisian neighborhoods, and one day for a day trip or anything else you’re interested in. Of course you don’t need to divide your days up so rigidly like that, but either way about five days gives you the ability to take your time, see plenty, and really enjoy yourself.

Is English widely spoken in Paris?

English for the most part is widely spoken, especially in more touristic areas. Even so, be sure to know at least a few phrases like hello, please, and thank you. Greet people you interact with in French with a simple ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Bonsoir’ depending on if it’s day time or evening. Unless you know the person speaks English (ie heard them interact with a customer before you in English), it’s polite to first ask in French ‘Parlez-vous anglais?’ before assuming they speak English.

What’s the best neighborhood to stay when visiting?

It depends on what you like! Typically a more central neighborhood that still has quieter areas is overall best to stay in, especially for your first visit. For example, the 3rd, 5th, 6th, or 7th arrondissements.
My favorite area to stay in is the 11th arrondisement, followed by the 3rd and 5th arrondisement, also known as the Latin Quarter. If you stay in this neighborhood I wholeheartedly recommend Cosmos Hotel, which is such a bargain for the lovely facilities and neighborhood.

Are Parisians rude?

I can only speak from my experience, but I really have not had trouble with locals being rude. Honestly I’ve had more issues with fellow tourists being rude in Paris. Stereotypes typically represent a minority, and generally if you’re polite to people they’re polite back. On my recent two visits earlier this year, I found locals to be very friendly and kind, and had zero issues.

Is Paris safe?

From my experiences, Paris is overall quite safe, but it’s important to be cautious like with any big city. If you’re unsure about certain neighborhoods stick to visiting them in the day, and spend your evenings in neighborhoods you feel safer in.
After five visits I would recommend not visiting parts of the Montmartre area at night, especially if you are a woman. The sunsets are beautiful, but the area can get sketchy very quickly as nightfall arrives so proceed with caution or leave shortly after. I visited this area in the evening with a female friend a few years ago and on our walk down from Sacré-Cœur we were approached multiple times and even briefly followed by aggressive street vendors and cat-callers. Not great. However I visited two other times in the early evening with friends and colleagues and was totally fine, so just use your best judgement. I also dislike the Gare du Nord train station area and purposefully avoid it. I’ve had a couple friends get pick-pocketed here and despite increased police presence, I think it’s still best to avoid if you can, especially at night. If you have to go to this station, just be aware of your valuables and keep to yourself.
Other than that, I’ve always felt safe in Paris. Avoid common pickpocket and scammer schemes with a few tips:
→Keep your valuables in a place that is either hard to access or easy for you to keep track of, like a cross body bag. If you prefer to wear a backpack, try finding a spot deeper in your bag for your wallet like in a back pocket, hidden pocket, or underneath less valuable items like a sweater or water bottle. Don’t store your wallet in your back pocket or backpack front pocket.
→Make sure your hotel is in a safe area. Even if you book directly through the hotel, read reviews on other platforms like Google or Booking.com to see what people have to say about the location. You don’t need to write off entire neighborhoods, but it’s good to be aware of what to expect.
→Ignore or politely decline people with clipboards, offering unwarranted help, or anything that seems suspicious.

What’s the best way to get around Paris?

I like traveling longer distances via the metro and bus, but walking generally is the best way to see Paris. If you’re comfortable city cycling then that’s also a great option. If you get lost look for street name signs, they have the arrondisement name you’re in written on them. The arrondisements start with the 1st in the center and loop clockwise through all of Paris until the 20th arrondisement. So if you’re in arrondisements 1 through 5 you know you’re in the most central city neighborhoods, and if you’re in the later teens you know you’re closer to the outskirts.

Do I need to make reservations for dinners, attractions, etc? What should I book in advance?

Tickets for bigger attractions like The Louvre are generally better to book in advance, I’ve always booked my tickets a few days prior and been fine, but you can book your tickets a few weeks in advance if you want to be safe. If you have your heart set on specific restaurants, it also doesn’t hurt to make a reservation, even if it’s same day. If you’re traveling in a larger group (more than four) then it could be smart to make a reservation. For breakfast and lunch it’s typically less necessary.

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