Paris, the city of light, has been a top destination for travellers worldwide for centuries. Known for its romantic charm, historic landmarks, and artistic culture, Paris has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there’s always something new in this beautiful city. Travelling to Paris is refreshing; let’s take a look. What do I need to know before travelling to Paris?
Getting to Paris
Paris is one of the most accessible cities in Europe, with two major airports: Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Many international airlines fly directly into these airports, making reaching Paris easy from almost any destination. If you’re travelling from within Europe, you can also take a train or bus to Paris. The Eurostar train from London is a popular option, taking just over two hours to reach the city.
How to travel in Paris as a tourist
Paris is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. However, the metro is a quick and efficient way to get around if you prefer public transportation. The metro system is well-connected and affordable, with tickets costing €1.90 per ride or €14.90 for a pack of 10 tickets. If you plan to use the metro frequently, you can also purchase a weekly or monthly pass.
If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a bike is a great way to explore the city. Paris has a public bike-sharing system called Vélib’, with over 14,000 bikes available for rent. You can rent a bike for as little as €1 for 30 minutes, with more extended rental periods available.
Accommodations in Paris
Paris offers many accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. If you want a unique experience, consider staying in a boutique hotel or renting an apartment. Airbnb is also popular in Paris, with many listings available throughout the city.
When choosing a location to stay in Paris, consider staying in one of the central arrondissements, such as the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés. These areas offer easy access to popular tourist attractions and are well-connected by public transportation.
Must-See Attractions in Paris
There are so many things to see and do in Paris it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. Here are some of the Paris travel guide must-see attractions in the city:
Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. You can take the stairs or elevator to the top for stunning city views.
Louvre Museum: The Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums, with over 35,000 works of art on display. Don’t miss the Mona Lisa, one of the museum’s most famous pieces.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Despite the tragic fire in 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains a popular attraction in Paris. The cathedral is closed for renovation, but you can still admire the Gothic architecture outside.
Montmartre: This charming neighbourhood is known for its narrow streets, quaint cafes, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Take a walk via the winding roads and take in the bohemian atmosphere.
Champs-Élysées: The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in Paris, lined with luxury shops and cafes. Walk down the avenue and admire the Arc de Triomphe at the end.
Food and Drink in Paris
Paris is renowned for its delicious cuisine and rich culinary traditions. From fine dining restaurants to cosy cafes and street food vendors, there is no shortage of food and drink options in the city. Here are some popular dishes and drinks to try in Paris:
Croissants – A quintessential French pastry, croissants are a flaky, buttery delight that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. You can find them in bakeries all over the city.
Baguette – The classic French baguette is a staple of Parisian cuisine. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a cheese plate or charcuterie board.
Steak frites – A simple yet delicious dish of grilled steak and French fries. It’s a popular choice in many Parisian brasseries.
Escargots – Also known as snails, escargots are a traditional French delicacy. They are typically served in a garlic butter sauce and are best enjoyed with a glass of wine.
French onion soup – A hearty soup made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with a slice of bread and melted cheese.
Macarons – These colourful and delicate French cookies are made with almond flour and filled with various ganache flavours. They are a popular gift to bring back home.
Wine – France is renowned for its wine, and Paris has no shortage of wine bars and restaurants. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there’s a wine for every palate.
Champagne – The sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France is a favourite for celebrations and special occasions. It’s often served as an aperitif or with dessert.
Café au lait – A classic French coffee drink made with equal parts coffee and milk. It’s often enjoyed for breakfast or with a croissant.
Hot chocolate – Parisian hot chocolate is rich and decadent, often served with whipped cream or a side of Chantilly cream.
No matter your taste preferences, Paris has something to offer every foodie. Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore the city’s vibrant food scene; our paris travel tips are the best.
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