PARIS (ÎLE-DE-FRANCE)
This region is the heart of France, a hub of art, history, and romance. This guide helps you navigate its iconic landmarks, discover its rich culture, and explore the charming towns and countryside that surround the City of Light.
Why Visit Paris?
Cultural Hub: Home to the world’s most famous museums and monuments, from the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower.
Royal Grandeur: Discover the opulence of France’s past at magnificent châteaux like Versailles and Fontainebleau.
Beyond the City: Explore a blend of urban sophistication and rural charm in the surrounding parks, forests, and medieval towns.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This is the ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds than in peak summer.
Deep Off-Season (November-March): You will find the best value on flights and accommodation. The city is peaceful, and winter markets and events create a magical atmosphere.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is warm, and the city is at its most vibrant. Be prepared for high prices and crowds, especially at major attractions.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Paris
Paris is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. From the historic Île de la Cité to the bohemian vibe of Montmartre, you could spend a lifetime exploring.
Your Smart Tip: Don’t just stick to the main tourist sites. Wander through the different arrondissements to discover local bakeries, hidden parks, and authentic bistros.
Versailles
Just a short train ride from Paris, Versailles is a magnificent monument to French royal history. The Palace and its sprawling gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor.
Your Smart Tip: Go on a weekday and arrive early to beat the crowds, or consider a late-afternoon visit when most tour buses have left.
The Châteaux of Île-de-France
Beyond Versailles, the region is dotted with spectacular châteaux. Don’t miss the Château de Fontainebleau, a former royal residence, or the fairytale-like Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which inspired Versailles itself.
Your Smart Tip: Many châteaux are located in charming towns perfect for a leisurely day trip. Pack a picnic and explore the surrounding grounds for a more relaxed experience.
The Parks and Forests
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle in the vast forests and parks of the region. The Forest of Fontainebleau is a paradise for hikers and climbers, while the Parc Naturel Régional du Vexin Français offers a peaceful rural landscape.
Your Smart Tip: Rent a bike to explore the scenic trails of the parks. It’s a great way to cover more ground and discover hidden gems.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is temperate, with mild springs and autumns, warm summers, and cool winters. Rain is possible year-round, so an umbrella is always a good idea.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, a few words of French go a long way. Always greet shopkeepers and servers with a polite “Bonjour” (hello) or “Bonsoir” (good evening).
Dining: Lunch is often the largest meal, and it’s common to enjoy a “plat du jour” (dish of the day) at a bistro. Tipping is not mandatory, as service is included, but a small extra tip for excellent service is appreciated.
Politeness: Parisians value politeness. Patience and a friendly attitude are the best ways to get along.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($40-$60), mid-range hotels ($120-$200), luxury ($250+). Prices vary significantly by location and season.
Food: Fixed-price lunch menu ($20-$30), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($40-$60 per person), fine dining ($100+).
Transport: Single metro/bus ticket ($2.50), Navigo Découverte pass (weekly/monthly pass, recommended for longer stays), Navigo Easy pass (for occasional trips).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $80-$120 (hostels, market food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $150-$250 (hotels, bistros, attractions).
- Luxury: $300+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
Metro: The Parisian metro is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. It’s easy to use and well-connected.
RER: The RER is a regional train network that connects Paris to its suburbs and major attractions like Versailles and Disneyland Paris.
Bus/Tram: An extensive bus and tram network offers a scenic way to travel.
Walking: Many of the best Parisian experiences come from simply walking and discovering the city’s hidden streets and squares.
Must-Try Food
Croque Monsieur/Croque Madame: A classic grilled ham and cheese sandwich, with a fried egg on top for the Madame.
Steak Frites: A perfectly cooked steak served with a generous side of French fries.
French Onion Soup: A rich, savory soup topped with a layer of melted cheese and croutons.
Jambon-Beurre: The simple yet perfect Parisian sandwich of ham and butter on a fresh baguette.
Escargots: Snails baked in garlic and parsley butter, a true French delicacy.
Duck Confit: A classic dish of duck leg cooked in its own fat until the skin is crisp and the meat is tender.
Macarons: Delicate, colorful meringue-based cookies with a variety of fillings.
Crêpes: Thin pancakes, served savory with fillings like ham and cheese, or sweet with Nutella, jam, or sugar.
Pain au Chocolat: A classic buttery croissant filled with chocolate.
Tarte Tatin: An upside-down caramelized apple tart, a beloved dessert.
Must-Try Drinks
French Wine: The region is known for its exquisite wines, particularly those from nearby Champagne and Burgundy.
Champagne: The world’s most famous sparkling wine is from the Champagne region just outside of Paris.
Kir Royale: A simple yet elegant cocktail of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) topped with Champagne.
Pernod/Pastis: An anise-flavored liqueur often served as an aperitif, mixed with water.
Café au Lait: Coffee with steamed milk, a breakfast staple.
Citron Pressé: A refreshing, deconstructed lemonade where you mix fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water to your liking.
Vin Chaud: Mulled wine, a popular warming drink in the winter.