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Paris: City Trip to the City of Love - Insider Tips and Highlights
In a taxi to Paris … depending on where you are traveling from, this vehicle may not be the right vehicle for a city trip to Paris. The subway and long walks are usually the better choices. But let's start at the beginning: What you should see on a short break in Paris, France what insider tips you can discover, how to get there and what you shouldn't miss - you'll find out all this if you read on now.
Explore other great travel tips for a trip across the pond to Europe.
Paris is a popular destination for city breaks. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the bohemian district of Montmartre are just a few of the sights that can be admired here. Many good hotels offer you a central place to stay and first-class restaurants take care of your physical well-being. If you want to travel to Paris, you're in luck cause often you can find round-trip flights from major cities in the US within the $300s!
So that you don't miss the best on your Paris city trip, you should give some thought to it beforehand and don't be afraid to take a look at the travel guide. After all, the weekend in Paris should be used optimally.
5 Reasons for a Trip to Paris
1. The Charm of the City of Love
Enjoying a baguette in a small street café, relaxing a little after a day on the Seine, and marveling at tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe - in Paris, a perfect experience always combines fun and liveliness with enough time to enjoy both an exquisite Enjoy both food and an exhibition in the Louvre. Impressive boulevards, beautiful architecture, the flair of art and culture, countless sights, great parks, markets, boutiques - the list could go on forever. The city on the Seine is an experience. Reinvigorate your spirits at Notre Dame, shop for a bargain at the Marché aux Puces de Montreuil, or discover the goodies at the Marché biologique Raspail and let yourself be inspired by a spectacular performance at the Moulin Rouge.
2. Shopping in Paris
Paris is the city of fashion and a true shopping paradise. Whether you are a fan of small, fine boutiques or want to explore the huge range of large department stores, you will literally stumble upon small and large highlights around every corner. The most popular shopping destinations include the megastores, above all the Galeries Lafayette: large designer labels present themselves there, as do newcomers, and anyone looking for a souvenir is also in the right place. The Rue de Rivoli is one of the main shopping streets with international shops and French fashion.
Our pirate tip: Combine a visit to the museum with shopping. The Rue de Rivoli leads from the Hotel de Ville directly to the Louvre. Even if you're only visiting the city of love for a few days, you should take the time to shop and maybe even grab a fashionable souvenir from your short trip to Paris.
3. Culinary Delights in Paris
Eat like God in France: Paris is also the capital of gourmets and so countless restaurants invite you to a wide variety of delicacies. If you want to eat authentic French food, look for a restaurant that is not in close proximity to the major sights.
If it's not the big dinner, you should plan a visit to one of the typical cafés for a real French breakfast: whether you settle down in a tiny café on Montmartre for a café au lait and croissant or in the Marais student district to soak up the atmosphere let yourself sink in - this visit is always an experience. Among the most famous cafes in Paris are these:
Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Cafe des Deux Moulins (Café de Amélie) in Montmartre
Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
4. Nightlife in Paris
A cocktail at the bar or a night of dancing? In Paris you will find plenty of addresses that promise you an unforgettable night. However, this has its price. Going out in Paris is expensive. Take advantage of the bars' happy hours , usually between 6 and 7 p.m. and between 9 and 10 p.m. These districts offer the highest density of bars and clubs:
Oberkampf: Away from the tourist crowds, you will find numerous bars and cafés here, also in lower price ranges.
Rue Mouffetard: Typical Parisian bars and restaurants and a casual atmosphere among Parisians await you.
Bastille: The nightlife district is popular with tourists and locals alike, especially around Rue de Lappe. It's not called the longest bar in France for nothing.
Well, are the suitcases already packed? We get it - Paris is simply irresistible!
5. Romance in Paris
If you're thinking of a romantic getaway, a city break in Paris isn't far off. The city of love is the epitome of romance and, despite all the clichés, is always the perfect choice if you want to enjoy romantic togetherness with your partner for a few days or even 1-2 weeks.
Just imagine yourself sitting on the banks of the Seine with a good bottle of red wine and a blanket with a view of the Eiffel Tower, which begins to light up for you on the hour after sunset. Too much kitsch? No problem! Actually, you only have to walk through the historic center of Paris after dark and marvel at the thousand lights that illuminate the buildings in gold. A scenery like from the twenties. Have we convinced you? On our page, you will find all sorts of tips for planning a trip for two to Paris.
Travel Tips for Your Stay in Paris
City Trip to Paris: Short Break or Longer?
Paris is always worth a trip - whether you are planning a short trip to Paris like a romantic weekend or want to discover all the highlights and secrets of the city in a week. On a weekend or over the bridging days there is enough time to discover the most beautiful sights within the city: Eiffel Tower and Montmartre with the Sacre Coeur church, the boulevard Avenue des Champs-Élysées with its designer boutiques and magnificent buildings, Notre Dame and as one of the mysterious Highlights a visit to the Parisian underworld. The catacombs once served as a burial ground and still house the bones of the dead today.
Short Break Paris - Three to Five Days
If you only have time for a short trip to Paris, say around three to five days, hop on the RER regional train and head to the Palace of Versailles. The castle and the adjacent park alone are worth a day trip. You also have time to let the different districts of Paris work their magic on you: stroll through the narrow streets of Montmartre, let yourself be driven through the bars and pubs around the Bastille district, or browse through the designer shops in Saint-Germain.
You shouldn't miss an extensive stroll through one of the Parisian flea markets. The Puces de Saint-Ouen at the Porte de Clignancourt metro station is not only the oldest but also the most exciting. It opened in 1885 and is now one of the largest flea markets in the world with more than 3,000 stands. There are curiosities and antiques to discover here: furniture, jewelry, clothing, and accessories from all eras – from historical gems to current trends.
Take care at the Palace of Versailles. For example, anyone who extends their selfie stick in the Palace of Versailles and wants to take a photo of themselves will be warned by the museum staff that the use of the stick is not permitted. The reason: The operators are afraid that the valuable mirrors or the exhibits could be damaged if the masses extend their selfie sticks and want to take snapshots of themselves. In this respect, the Palace of Versailles is on the same level as the Louvre and the Center Pompidou. There has been a ban on the coveted selfie sticks for some time. Ultimately, the panorama and the atmosphere should not be impaired by countless aluminum poles.
A Week and More in Paris
If you stay longer, trips to the surrounding area are also worthwhile. Amusement park fans, for example, are drawn to Disneyland Paris, around 18 miles from the city center. The Champagne region is also not far and can be reached in a day trip. Here you can visit the world-famous wineries and taste a sample of the finest wines in the world.
Book Popular City Cards and Passes for Short Breaks in Paris
For Paris, there is not just one ultimate Paris Pass. You are spoiled for choice between different offers before you start buying the Paris Pass. Compare the Paris Pass prices here and see what offers are available and book the pass that best suits your activities right here!
Paris City Pass from about $100
Free entry to more than 60 sights and attractions
No waiting in line
Free use of public transport (metro, bus and train)
Boat trip on the Seine
Discount at the Lafayette Gallery
The Paris Pass from $131
Free entry to more than 60 sights and attractions
Bonus activities: Montparnasse, Grevin Wax Museum and more
Free use of public transport (metro, bus and train)
Chocolate Museum or Wine Tasting
Hop-on hop-off bus tour
Travel Guide
Paris Pass Lib' from about $110
Free use of public transport (metro and tram)
Boat trip on the Seine
Free entry to 60 different attractions
Hop on and off bus tour
Paris Museum Pass from about $50
Free entry to 60 different attractions (museums, sights, etc.)
Sightseeing & Sights in Paris
Must-dos from the Eiffel Tower to shopping: whether you are taking a short trip to Paris and only have a weekend or a whole week: you must have seen and done these things in Paris.
1. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is probably THE landmark of the city. With a height of 324 meters, the Trum is the tallest building in the city. Even if you don't climb it (though the view from the second platform at 1062 feet is breathtaking!) - The tall iron tower is just an amazing sight, especially at night. But you can also admire the full beauty when the sun goes down and night falls. Every evening the Eiffel Tower sparkles every hour for 5 minutes (until 2 am). The best view of the gleaming landmark is from the Champ de Mars. Grab your picnic basket and enjoy the view.
2. The Louvre
Even the square in front of the most famous museum in the world with its glass pyramid (where the entrance is today) is breathtaking. Inside, the smile of the Mona Lisa and eight exhibitions with important art from all over the world await you.
3. Montmatre & Sacré-Coeur Basilica
The atmosphere in the former artists' quarter, especially around the Place de Tertre, is still unique today and is reminiscent of the time when Paris was the center of modern culture and famous artists such as Monet and Picasso produced their works on the hill. Normally you pay for the funicular, but with a valid metro ticket, you can use it for free. The Funiculaire runs from the bottom to the top of Montmartre. Discover the bohemian quarter and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Paris from the top. If you don't have a Metrocard, you can just walk up the stairs to the Sacre Coeur Basilica.
4. Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral
There are churches, cathedrals, and museums all over the city that offer free entry. Even the probably most famous cathedral Notre Dame on the Ile de la Cité does not charge an entrance fee. But not only the cathedral is exciting, also the view of Paris from the towers. Young people under the age of 26 can visit the towers of Notre Dame for free, the normal admission price is €8.50, well spent! The entrance to the tower is outside the cathedral on the left side of the facade. However, since the great fire, the cathedral can only be viewed from the outside!
5. Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is probably the most famous shopping street in Paris. The boulevard is lined with countless shops from H&M to designer stores like Louis Vuitton. The street is particularly worth seeing because of its architectural highlights. The avenue begins at the Place de la Concorde, which is the largest in Paris. If you walk to the end, you will come across Place Charles-de-Gaulle, where you can admire the well-known Arc de Triomphe.
Free Highlights & Sights to Experience in Paris for Free!
1. Free City Tour
You want to get a first good insight into Paris? How about a city tour? There are various providers of free guided tours through Paris in English. These tours take place several times a week. Enjoy the tour through the streets of Paris and let yourself be enchanted by the Parisian flair and the most beautiful districts of the city.
2. Galeries Lafayette Roof Terrace
The shopping tour was strenuous and exhausting? Well then visit the roof terrace Lafayette, from which you can enjoy a great view over the city. Access to the viewing terrace on the 8th floor is free. Escalators or elevators will take you to your destination.
3. Chilling in the Park
In Paris you will find many great and magnificent parks that you can visit at any time. In the center of Paris are the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin du Luxembourg, and Jardin des Plantes. But Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Parc de Belleville, Parc Andre Citroen, and Parc de la Villette are also worth a visit. In the low season you can even visit the Jardins de Versailles for free.
4. Picnic on the Banks of the Seine
Do it like the Parisians! In addition to the parks, you can also sit on the beautiful banks of the Seine. Just grab a bottle of wine from the supermarket and maybe some baguette and cheese and have a little picnic by the river. You can enjoy the fascinating view of the city and examine the hustle and bustle of the city. All of this for free, of course!
5. Free Entry to the Museum
On the first Sunday of the month, many monuments and museums in the city are free to visit. However, this usually only applies in the low season from November 1st to March 31st. Whether Arc de Triomphe, Château de Vincennes, the Panthéon and the Conciergerie - all free of charge.
What to Do in Paris
The Best Insider Tips for Sightseeing in Paris
1. Montparnasse instead of the Eiffel Tower: The waiting time is almost zero and the view is bombastic! Within 38 seconds you can take one of the fastest elevators in Europe to the 56th floor on the viewing floor. With a height of 210 meters, Montparnasse is a bit smaller than the Parisian landmark (301 meters), but the 360-degree panoramic view is much more spectacular and better. In addition to the Eiffel Tower itself, you can see many important Parisian sights from here, such as the Sacré-Cœur, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe.
2. Les Invalides: Originally the cathedral served as a church, but in 1840 it became the burial place for Emperor Napoleon I. rebuilt. His free-standing tomb is located just below the golden dome. All around there are marble reliefs on the walls that show the deeds of Napoleon. Incidentally, the Invalides Cathedral was built between 1679 and 1708 in the neoclassical Baroque style. The directly attached Hôtel des Invalides was commissioned by the Sun King Louis XIV and accommodated disabled soldiers who were unable to work. Today it is a large military museum.
3. Jardin du Luxembourg: The Jardin du Luxembourg offers an oasis of calm on 26 hectares. Originally it was a royal palace park. Today, many Parisians cavort here: students, newlyweds or families staying here for a picnic or for outdoor activities. You hardly find any tourists here. The beautiful garden was once designed by Maria de Medici, widow of King Henry IV (1611 or 1612). The complex is part of the Palais du Luxembourg. It houses an orangery and the Musée du Luxembourg . Be inspired by French garden art and immerse yourself in the diverse, green world of plants.
4. Musée Rodin: At the Rodin Museum, located near Les Invalides, you will see exhibits and sculptures by the famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) and his tragic long-term love affair with the artist Camille Claudel (1864-1943). The most famous work is “The Thinker”. You will also find some of Rodin's private art collections here, including those by Vincent van Gogh.
5. Sainte-Chapelle: Formerly a 13th-century palace chapel, Sainte-Chapelle is one of the finest Gothic monuments. On the ground floor, the people went to mass and on the upper floor, the splendid splendor of the stained glass can be seen. The stained glass windows are famous for their beauty and the wonderful light they let in. Enjoy the unique atmosphere here and learn more about it on a guided tour! Incidentally, concerts are regularly held in the Sainte-Chapelle, which offer incredible sound acoustics.
6. Parc de Saint-Cloud: Just outside of the city to the southwest is another park ideal for a romantic stroll overlooking the city of love - Parc de Saint-Cloud. Far away from the tourist hotspots, you can enjoy quiet hours here and also admire the beautiful landscape architecture of the French.
Insider Tip - The Catacombs of Paris:
Romantic Paris has a gruesome past: Beneath the beautiful and historic city lies a maze of dark corridors. Originally created to collect building materials, the tunnels were used from the late 18th century as a substitute for the crowded Parisian cemeteries, with skulls and bones stacked inside.
The Paris Catacombs are a unique underground tunnel system. It is almost 190 miles long and is located in the entire city. Due to a lack of cemeteries in the 14th to 17th centuries, about 6 million people found their final resting place here.
A tour lasts about two hours. You have an English-speaking tour guide who will also take you to areas that are closed to individual visitors. The maximum group size is 19 people.
The Most Important Things about Paris in Brief
Paris enchants - the French capital is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for a city trip and short breaks - and not just for lovers. As a center for art, culture and fashion, with its lively music and performance scene, romantic streets, magnificent avenues, and its numerous landmarks, it fascinates visitors from all over the world. With around 2.2 million inhabitants, it is the largest city in France. In short: Paris is the world's favorite tourist destination - at least that's the view of more than 47 million tourists who visit the city of love every year, making it the most visited tourist destination in the world.
Good to Know
Most museums are free on the first Sunday of every month.
Thirsty? Paris offers more than 200 free drinking water fountains.
There is free WiFi at over 260 hotspots.
Souvenirs or home accessories are cheaper and more unusual at the Paris flea markets than in the souvenir shops.
Disneyland Paris
In addition to the classics such as the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, or Sacré Cœur, a visit to Disneyland Paris is of course also worthwhile. If a day trip is too short for you, you can of course plan a longer stay there. There are always very interesting offers for a short break in Disneyland with early bird discounts or package deals where children are included free of charge.