Paris travel guide
Paris rewards walking: most of its best-known sights sit along or near the Seine, and the metro makes the rest of the city easy to reach.
Best time to visit Paris
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) bring mild weather and long café-terrace evenings.
July and August are busy at the main sights, and some small, family-run shops and restaurants close for part of August. Winter is cold but quieter, with Christmas markets and lights in December.
Getting to Paris
Charles de Gaulle (CDG) handles most long-haul flights and is connected to central Paris by RER B trains. Orly (ORY) is linked by metro line 14. Eurostar trains from London arrive at Gare du Nord.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Metro and RER
The metro reaches almost every neighbourhood, and RER trains run to the airports, Versailles and Disneyland Paris.
Walking and cycling
Central Paris is compact; the Vélib' bike-share system has stations across the city.
Day trips
Versailles, Giverny and Champagne are reachable by train in about an hour or less.
Top things to do in Paris
1. The Louvre
The Mona Lisa and one of the largest museums in the world. Timed-entry tickets are strongly recommended.
See tickets & tours on Tiqets ›2. Eiffel Tower
Climb or take the lift to the second floor or summit for views across the city.
See tickets & tours on Tiqets ›3. Musée d'Orsay
Impressionist masterpieces in a former railway station on the Left Bank.
See tickets & tours on Tiqets ›4. Palace of Versailles
The Hall of Mirrors and vast gardens of the former royal palace, about 40 minutes from central Paris by RER C.
See tickets & tours on Tiqets ›Practical tips
- Book the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Versailles ahead, especially in summer and on weekends.
- Many museums close one day a week (often Monday or Tuesday), so check before you plan.
- Watch your belongings on the metro and at busy sights.
Paris travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Paris?
Three to four days covers the main museums and neighbourhoods; add a day for Versailles.
How do you get from CDG airport to central Paris?
RER B trains run from the airport to Gare du Nord, Châtelet and Saint-Michel. Taxis charge a fixed fare to the city centre.
What is the best time to visit Paris?
April to June and September to October for pleasant weather; December for Christmas lights; avoid early August if you want everything open.