PARIS
Paris is the world’s most romantic city, a beacon of art, fashion, and history. It combines the grandeur of its iconic landmarks with the intimate charm of its hidden cafes and cobblestone streets.
This region is the epicenter of French culture and sophistication. It is a land of timeless elegance, from the bustling heart of the capital to the serene châteaux of the surrounding countryside.
Most Popular Attractions
Paris City Core: Historic & Cultural Icons
Eiffel Tower: The world-famous iron lattice tower and global symbol of France.
Louvre Museum: The world’s largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture located on the Île de la Cité.
Musée d’Orsay: A stunning converted railway station housing the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art.
Arc de Triomphe: The monumental arch honoring those who fought for France, standing at the top of the Champs-Élysées.
Sainte-Chapelle: Famous for its breathtaking 13th-century stained glass windows.
Panthéon: A secular mausoleum containing the remains of distinguished French citizens like Voltaire and Victor Hugo.
Palais Garnier: The opulent 19th-century opera house that inspired “The Phantom of the Opera.”
Place de la Concorde: The city’s largest public square, featuring the ancient Luxor Obelisk.
Catacombs of Paris: An eerie yet fascinating underground ossuary holding the remains of millions.
Modern Attractions & Urban Landmarks
Centre Pompidou: A high-tech architectural marvel housing the National Museum of Modern Art.
Fondation Louis Vuitton: A futuristic art museum and cultural center designed by Frank Gehry.
Musée du Quai Branly: A modern museum featuring indigenous art and cultures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.
La Défense & Grande Arche: The sleek business district featuring Europe’s largest collection of modern outdoor art.
Atelier des Lumières: An immersive digital art center located in a restored 19th-century foundry.
Philharmonie de Paris: A contemporary architectural landmark dedicated to symphonic concerts.
Parks, Gardens & Scenic Districts
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur: The hilltop artist’s district crowned by the white-domed Basilica.
Jardin du Luxembourg: A grand 17th-century park known for its fountains, statues, and the French Senate.
Tuileries Garden: The formal French garden connecting the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde.
Le Marais: A historic district famous for its medieval architecture, Jewish heritage, and trendy boutiques.
Canal Saint-Martin: A trendy waterway lined with iron bridges, chestnut trees, and vibrant cafes.
Père Lachaise Cemetery: The most visited cemetery in the world, final resting place of Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.
Greater Paris & Royal Estates
Palace of Versailles: The magnificent former royal residence of Louis XIV, featuring the Hall of Mirrors.
Château de Fontainebleau: A vast royal palace inhabited by French monarchs from the 12th to 19th centuries.
Basilica of Saint-Denis: The burial place of nearly every French king and the birthplace of Gothic architecture.
Disneyland Paris: The world-renowned theme park resort located in Marne-la-Vallée.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Pastry or Macaron Masterclass: Learn the secrets of French patisserie from a professional chef in a private kitchen in Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Go on a Wine and Cheese Tasting in Montmartre: Wander the hilly streets of the artists’ quarter and stop at a traditional cave à vin to sample regional cheeses paired with French vintages.
Explore the Underground Catacombs: Descend into the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the city to see the ossuary holding the remains of over six million people.
Attend a Cabaret Show at the Moulin Rouge: Experience the glitz and glamour of a world-famous Parisian revue, complete with feathers, sequins, and the traditional French Cancan.
Take a French Cooking Class: Visit a local market to select seasonal ingredients before learning to prepare a classic three-course French meal.
Cruise the Seine River at Night: Board a Bateau-Mouche to see the city’s iconic monuments—the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre—illuminated against the night sky.
Cycle Through the Bois de Boulogne: Escape the city bustle by renting a bike and exploring the vast trails, lakes, and botanical gardens of Paris’s western park.
Picnic at Canal Saint-Martin: Join the local youth for a relaxed evening of wine and baguettes along the water’s edge in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Visit the Perfume Museums: Take a sensory tour of the Fragonard Musée du Parfum to learn about the history of fragrance and the art of French scent-making.
Go on a Vintage Thrift Shopping Spree: Explore the famous flea markets of Saint-Ouen or the curated vintage boutiques in the 2nd and 4th arrondissements for unique Parisian fashion.
Take a Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles: Rent a bike to traverse the massive royal gardens and explore the Hall of Mirrors in the opulent former residence of French kings.
Local Tips & Transport
The Metro is King: The Paris Metro is one of the densest systems in the world. Most attractions are within a 5-minute walk of a station. Use the “Bonjour RATP” app to navigate and consider buying a “Navigo Easy” card to load digital tickets.
RER (Express Trains): For destinations outside the city center (like Versailles, Disneyland, or Charles de Gaulle Airport), use the RER trains. Be sure to keep your ticket until you exit, as you often need it to pass through the exit turnstiles.
Walking & The “Flâneur” Lifestyle: Paris is a “museum city” best seen on foot. Many arrondissements are compact, allowing you to walk from the Louvre to the Tuileries Garden and on to the Place de la Concorde seamlessly.
Vélib’ Metropole: Paris has a massive public bike-sharing scheme with both mechanical (blue) and electric (green) bikes. It’s a fantastic way to use the city’s ever-expanding network of protected cycle lanes.
From the Airport: From CDG, the RER B train is the fastest link to the city center. From Orly, the OrlyVal light rail connects to the RER B, or the OrlyBus goes directly to Place Denfert-Rochereau.
The “Bonjour” Rule: This is the most important cultural tip. Always greet a shopkeeper or waiter with a polite “Bonjour, Monsieur/Madame” before asking a question. Failing to do so is considered quite rude and may result in cold service.
Dining Etiquette: Water (une carafe d’eau) and bread are provided free of charge at restaurants. Service is meant to be slow and relaxed; you will usually have to ask for the bill (l’addition, s’il vous plaît) when you are ready to leave.
Coffee Culture: An “espresso” is simply un café. If you want a coffee with milk, order un café crème. Note that prices are often cheaper if you drink your coffee standing at the bar rather than sitting at a table on the terrace.
Sunday Closures: While many museums are open on Sundays, many shops and smaller restaurants close. However, the Marais district remains very lively on Sundays, making it a popular spot for weekend shopping.
Safety & Scams: Be wary of “friendship bracelet” weavers or people asking you to sign petitions near major landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur or the Eiffel Tower. Keep your belongings secure on the Metro to avoid pickpockets.
Hidden Gems:
- Square du Vert-Galant: A tiny park located at the western tip of the Île de la Cité, perfect for watching the sunset over the Seine.
- Passage des Panoramas: One of the oldest covered walkways in Paris, filled with historic charm, stamp collectors, and tiny, high-quality bistros.
- Promenade Plantée (Coulée verte René-Dumont): An elevated park built on an old railway viaduct (the inspiration for New York’s High Line) that runs through the 12th arrondissement.
- Musée Carnavalet: Located in the Marais, this free museum is housed in a beautiful mansion and tells the entire history of the city of Paris.
Language: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing Merci (thank you), S’il vous plaît (please), and Pardon (excuse me) goes a long way in building rapport with locals.
Top Restaurants
Le Baratin [$30-$50] – A cozy, no-frills bistro in Belleville with a loyal local following, known for its seasonal, traditional French cooking.
Bistrot Paul Bert [$40-$70] – A lively neighborhood spot in the 11th arrondissement that’s a true Parisian institution, serving classic bistro fare on a daily changing chalkboard menu.
Chez Fernand [$35-$60] – A personal favorite in the 6th arrondissement with a chalkboard menu, checkered tablecloths, and classic dishes like beef bourguignon and escargots.
Au Pied de Cochon [$40-$70] – A historic brasserie in the Les Halles district, open 24/7, famous for its traditional French onion soup and hearty, classic dishes.
Bouillon Chartier [$20-$35] – A legendary “bouillon” restaurant dating back to 1896, offering a quintessential Parisian experience with classic, affordable French comfort food in a grand, bustling dining hall.
Le Comptoir du Relais [$40-$70] – A classic bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés that doesn’t take reservations and always has a line, beloved for its duck confit and exceptional beef tartare.
Brasserie Bellanger [$30-$50] – A modern brasserie near Gare du Nord that stays true to classic French tradition with homemade, farm-to-table food.
L’Assiette [$40-$70] – Located in the 14th arrondissement, this bistro has the perfect dream-like Parisian look and serves classic, often-disappearing dishes like cassoulet and escargots.
Le Bon Georges [$40-$80] – A cozy bistro in the 9th arrondissement known for its welcoming atmosphere and a menu that changes with the freshest ingredients.
Le Café Mirabelle [$25-$45] – A charming café in the 11th arrondissement near Le Marais that serves delicious French pastries and simple, classic dishes.
Les Arlots [$35-$60] – A beloved bistro in South Pigalle serving generous portions of comfort food and wine, with a menu that changes daily to reflect seasonal ingredients.
La Coupole [$40-$80] – A living Art Deco landmark in Montparnasse, this grand brasserie is a classic Parisian establishment known for its history and traditional French dishes.
Le Saint Régis [$30-$50] – A classic bistro on the Île Saint-Louis that manages to avoid a touristy vibe, offering good food and a perfect view of the Seine.
A La Biche au Bois [$30-$50] – A fun and no-frills restaurant near Gare de Lyon known for its great food and excellent cheese course.
Aux Bons Crus [$25-$45] – An ode to French truck stops, this spot serves hearty versions of French classics at modest prices.
Le Servan [$50-$90] – A relaxed bistro in the 11th arrondissement run by two sisters, known for its modern French cooking with subtle Asian influences.
Frenchie Wine Bar [$40-$70] – The more casual and accessible counterpart to the famous Frenchie restaurant, this wine bar offers a menu of inventive small plates and an excellent wine list.
Mokonuts [$30-$50] – A small café in the 11th arrondissement offering personal dishes with flavors from around the world, perfect for a relaxed and welcoming meal.
Septime [$90-$150] – A relaxed, creative fine dining spot that has earned a Michelin star, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and a natural approach to cooking.
Dandelion [$35-$60] – An off-the-beaten-path restaurant in a village-like corner of the 20th arrondissement, known for its affordability and popularity with locals.
La Candela [$30-$50] – An incredible tapas bar in the heart of Paris with a modern, fusion approach to its delicious food.
L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre [$25-$45] – A casual standing-room-only wine bar where you can enjoy a variety of small, creative plates from a well-regarded chef.
Le Châteaubriand [$80-$130] – Located in Parmentier, this spot is perfect for adventurous foodies, offering a nightly tasting menu that constantly changes and challenges.
Au Passage [$40-$70] – A youthful restaurant and wine bar hidden in a passage, known for its focus on well-sourced, natural wines and inventive small plates.
Passerini [$60-$100] – A highly-acclaimed restaurant from chef Giovanni Passerini, serving some of the best Italian food in Paris.
Tracé [$70-$120] – A centrally located fine dining restaurant near the Louvre that offers a tasting menu from chef Clément Vergeat.
Kapara [$30-$50] – A boisterous restaurant near the Tuileries with a focus on Middle Eastern-inspired flavors and a lively atmosphere.
L’Ambroisie [$250-$400+] – A legendary three-Michelin-starred restaurant on Place des Vosges, offering a traditional, formal, and exquisite fine dining experience.
Le Jules Verne [$200-$350+] – Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined modern French dining experience with stunning views of the city.
Pierre Gagnaire [$250-$400+] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by the innovative chef Pierre Gagnaire, known for its creative and emotionally resonant cuisine.
Kei [$200-$350+] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant led by Japanese chef Kei Kobayashi, offering a unique and precise blend of French and Japanese techniques.
Le Cinq [$250-$400+] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Four Seasons Hotel George V, known for its opulence and classic French haute cuisine.
Septime [$90-$150] – A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a more casual and inventive approach to fine dining with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
Automne [$80-$120] – A lovely Michelin-starred restaurant in the 11th arrondissement that offers a high-quality experience for a fraction of the price of larger establishments.
Le Gabriel [$150-$250+] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant at La Réserve Hotel that offers a refined and elegant dining experience.
Marsan [$150-$250+] – A restaurant by acclaimed chef Hélène Darroze, offering a showcase of her high-quality and creative cuisine.
Taillevent [$150-$250+] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant that is a true institution of Parisian gastronomy, known for its classic French dishes and incredible wine cellar.
Miznon [$15-$25] – A popular spot with several locations, famous for its delicious Israeli-inspired street food served in pita bread.
L’As du Fallafel [$15-$25] – Located in the heart of Le Marais, this is a legendary spot for what many consider the best falafel in Paris.
Breizh Café [$20-$35] – A beloved crêperie that has multiple locations, serving authentic and high-quality buckwheat galettes and sweet crêpes.
Chez Aline [$15-$25] – A tiny sandwich counter in the 11th arrondissement that makes a ham and butter sandwich that might ruin you for all others.
L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer [$25-$45] – Another standing-room-only spot from the same chef as L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre, but focused entirely on high-quality seafood and inventive small plates.
Le Verre Volé [$30-$50] – A casual wine bar along Canal Saint-Martin with an extensive wine list and a rotating food menu that focuses on what’s fresh and seasonal.
Osteria Passerini [$30-$50] – The more casual trattoria from the acclaimed chef of Passerini, offering classic and excellent Italian pasta dishes.
Les Enfants du Marché [$30-$50] – A lively spot in the Marché des Enfants Rouges, this restaurant-in-a-market offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that changes daily based on what’s fresh.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bar Hemingway: Located within the prestigious Ritz Paris near Place Vendôme, this legendary bar is a pilgrimage site for cocktail aficionados. It’s a cozy, intimate spot where the ghost of Ernest Hemingway feels ever-present, known for its classic drinks and impeccable service.
Experimental Cocktail Club: Tucked away behind an unmarked black door in the 2nd arrondissement, this pioneering speakeasy is credited with kickstarting the modern cocktail scene in Paris. It’s the perfect place to get lost in a dark, sultry atmosphere and inventive drinks.
Candelaria: This popular spot in the Haut Marais district offers a unique experience. Enter through a bustling taqueria to find a hidden, candlelit bar in the back, serving up excellent tacos and top-notch tequila and mezcal cocktails.
Little Red Door: As the name suggests, this Marais bar is found behind a small red door. It is renowned for its creative, locally-sourced cocktail menu that changes seasonally, inviting you on a conceptual journey with each drink.
Le Syndicat: Located in the lively 10th arrondissement, this bar has a mission to promote French spirits. Its facade is covered in posters, adding to its authentic, slightly rough-around-the-edges charm, while the cocktails inside are anything but.
Bisou: Situated in the heart of the Marais, this is a bar with a truly unique concept—there’s no menu. The talented bartenders create a bespoke cocktail for you based on your personal taste and preferences, making every visit a one-of-a-kind experience.
Danico: Found inside a stunning gallery in the 2nd arrondissement, this cocktail bar by the team behind Experimental Cocktail Club offers a vibrant, elegant setting and a list of truly inventive cocktails.
Le Mary Celeste: A stylish and welcoming bar in the Marais known for its excellent cocktails and delicious small plates, particularly its selection of oysters. It’s a great spot for an upscale yet relaxed evening.
Dirty Dick: Don’t let the name fool you. This lively tiki bar in the Pigalle neighborhood is known for its exotic rum-based drinks and fun, laid-back atmosphere, a perfect escape from the Parisian chill.
Moonshiner: A true speakeasy in the Bastille area, you enter this clandestine bar through a secret door at the back of a pizzeria. Once inside, you’ll find a Prohibition-era ambiance and a wide array of classic and original cocktails.
The Cambridge Public House: Located in the Marais, this bar successfully blends the friendly atmosphere of a British pub with the refined service of a top-tier Parisian cocktail bar.
Le Bar 1802: Situated in the luxurious Hôtel Monte Cristo in the 5th arrondissement, this bar is a paradise for rum lovers, boasting one of the largest rum collections in France.
L’Arc: An iconic and luxurious nightclub located just steps from the Arc de Triomphe in the 16th arrondissement. It is a premier destination for a chic and glamorous night out, attracting an international crowd with its top DJs and stunning outdoor terrace.
Rex Club: A legendary venue in the 2nd arrondissement and a cornerstone of Paris’s electronic music scene. Known for its world-class sound system and underground atmosphere, it’s a mecca for techno and house music lovers.
Silencio: Created by filmmaker David Lynch, this club in the 2nd arrondissement is a unique artistic haven. It’s a members-only club during the week but opens its doors to the public for a stylish, art-house clubbing experience on weekends.
La Machine du Moulin Rouge: Located in the vibrant Pigalle district, right next to the famous cabaret, this massive three-floor venue hosts diverse nights, from live concerts to high-energy club nights with a mix of musical genres.
Le Duplex: A sprawling nightclub near the Champs-Élysées, offering three different floors with various music styles, from hip-hop to pop and electronic. Its central location and energetic vibe make it a popular choice.
Badaboum: This versatile venue in the Bastille district functions as a concert hall, a lively club, and a trendy cocktail bar. It’s celebrated for its state-of-the-art sound system and diverse electronic music programming.
Le Cabaret Sauvage: Found under a big top tent in Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, this unique club offers a mix of music, from live concerts to themed parties, in a bohemian and theatrical setting.
Le Rouge: A centrally located club in the 9th arrondissement, known for its elegant red and gold décor, live performances, and upbeat electronic music. It’s a stylish spot that attracts a fashionable crowd.
Le Flow: A floating club and restaurant on the Seine River, offering a dynamic nightlife experience with live music, DJ sets, and a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower.
Kilomètre25: An underground, open-air club located just beyond the ring road in the 19th arrondissement. This industrial-style venue is a seasonal hotspot for major electronic music events.
Raspoutine: This former Russian cabaret near the Champs-Élysées is now a luxurious and exclusive nightclub. With its opulent, baroque-inspired decor, it’s a prime spot for a high-end, exclusive night out.
Le Balajo: A historic dance hall in the Bastille district that has been hosting parties since the 1930s. It’s known for its lively and retro atmosphere, with a mix of salsa, rock, and disco nights.
Concrete: While it’s now closed, its legacy lives on as an icon of Paris nightlife. Located on a boat on the Seine, it was famous for its marathon weekend parties that lasted from Saturday night until Monday morning. It remains a legendary name in the city’s clubbing history.