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KEY INFORMATION ABOUT PARIS
COUNTRYFrance |
CURRENCYEuro |
WHEN TO VISITApril to June September to November |
LANGUAGESFrench |
Paris is the capital and the most populous city of France with more than 2,1 million residents in 2020. Since the 17th century, Paris has been considered as one of Europe’s
major centers for finance, commerce, fashion and arts. Paris is the center of the Paris region - or Ile-de-France and represents about 18 percent of the French population. Did you
know? Paris was in 2017 the second most expensive city in the world after Singapore in terms of cost of living. The city of Paris is splitted into twenty administrative districts called
arrondissements and each of them has its own atmosphere.Paris, also called The City of Love ; is a mythic city that everybody dreams of visiting one day. With many small streets to stroll in and a lot of amazing monuments to discover, Paris has remained authentic. From the Eiffel Tower; to Notre-Dame de Paris, from Arc de Triomphe to le Marais district, you will never get bored in the City of Lights and is typically the city you will want to visit again and again as it is always alive and in motion. At its heart, Paris will always remain “bohemian bourgeois” for tourists and people all over the world who desire to visit it. During your stay, you should enjoy Paris; as it is today: seductive, popular, artistic, cosmopolitan but above all extraordinary.
major centers for finance, commerce, fashion and arts. Paris is the center of the Paris region - or Ile-de-France and represents about 18 percent of the French population. Did you
know? Paris was in 2017 the second most expensive city in the world after Singapore in terms of cost of living. The city of Paris is splitted into twenty administrative districts called
arrondissements and each of them has its own atmosphere.Paris, also called The City of Love ; is a mythic city that everybody dreams of visiting one day. With many small streets to stroll in and a lot of amazing monuments to discover, Paris has remained authentic. From the Eiffel Tower; to Notre-Dame de Paris, from Arc de Triomphe to le Marais district, you will never get bored in the City of Lights and is typically the city you will want to visit again and again as it is always alive and in motion. At its heart, Paris will always remain “bohemian bourgeois” for tourists and people all over the world who desire to visit it. During your stay, you should enjoy Paris; as it is today: seductive, popular, artistic, cosmopolitan but above all extraordinary.
5 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE GOING TO PARIS
Before visiting one of the most beautiful cities in the world, there are some things you need to know about Paris.
PARLEZ-VOUS FRANCAIS ? - DO YOU SPEAK FRENCH ?
It is common to believe that Parisians are rude, but it is one of the cliché among many others about them. Most of the time, people in Paris will be happy to help you find your way around the city and the subway. However, it is true that Parisians will really appreciate it if you make the effort to learn a few basic words in French such as Bonjour (Good Morning), Merci (Thank you) or au revoir (goodbye). People in Paris are not often fans of the English language but they do speak English and they will make the effort to make themselves understood to help you.
IT'S EASIER TO MOVE AROUND IN PARIS THAN YOU THINK
The best way to discover Paris is by foot and the city is super easy to stroll in. By walking through it, Paris will reveal all its charms allowing you to discover life like locals and typical small alleys. Paris is easy to navigate and it’s difficult to get lost so don’t worry. You can also easily use the public transport as the city is well served thanks to an important metro, tram and bus network. Metro is the fastest way to get around the city but if you have time, using the buses and trams can lead you through nice areas and monuments. Keep in mind that you should keep your tickets during your ride, as inspectors could ask for it at the exit of the station. Enjoying Paris without fines is even better !
EXPECT AN EMPTY CITY IN AUGUST
Parisians usually go on vacation in August which results in a lot of little shops or cafes closed during this period. If there is a particular place you really want to go to, we
recommend doubling check first if it’s open in August. It’s also good to know that the city is very hot during the summer, particularly this month. The good news is that Paris will be
quite empty in August so you can enjoy quiet streets and terraces, as well as less crowded museums and monuments which still open on regular hours.
recommend doubling check first if it’s open in August. It’s also good to know that the city is very hot during the summer, particularly this month. The good news is that Paris will be
quite empty in August so you can enjoy quiet streets and terraces, as well as less crowded museums and monuments which still open on regular hours.
AVOID AS MUCH AS YOU CAN TOURSIT RESTAURANTS AND ROOFTOPS
France is famous for its gastronomy and Paris is not left out with many great restaurants where you will be able to enjoy typical French cuisine. While in Paris, take the opportunity to taste new food such as snails, Steak Tartare or Croque Monsieur but avoid restaurants in touristy places. Indeed, restaurants in touristic areas such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame or Champs Elysees are not usually the best and are often “tourists traps” where you will spend a lot of money for low quality food. Get off the beaten track and rely on travel guides to discover small gems and appreciate great food. Remember to make reservations for the most popular places and enjoy !
MAKE USE OF GOOD MANNERS
It’s common for Parisians and French people to say Hello (Bonjour) when they enter a shop or a restaurant. Use your basic few French words to do the same and practice when
you can, it will be appreciated. A good thing to also know is that Parisians tend to be impatient and always in a hurry, so when you use escalators remember to stand right to allow people to walk up quickly on your left.
you can, it will be appreciated. A good thing to also know is that Parisians tend to be impatient and always in a hurry, so when you use escalators remember to stand right to allow people to walk up quickly on your left.
THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN PARIS
Paris is unquestionably the city of glamour, romance and luxury. You will therefore have a vast choice in terms of luxury hotels to experience the French art of living. We made
a selection just for you whether you want to sleep in pretty 18th century buildings or trendy contemporary design hotels.
a selection just for you whether you want to sleep in pretty 18th century buildings or trendy contemporary design hotels.
THE BEST RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN PARIS
The French Capital is one of the best food cities in Europe and also offers many possibilities for anyone wishing to enjoy a tasty glass of French wine or seize nightlife. Follow our guide for the best bars and restaurants in Paris.
BEAU REGARD 6TH ARR.
This navy-blue-fronted brasserie tucked down rue Guillaume is a desirable alternative to nearby (and always tourist-filled) Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, once the watering holes for Paris’s literati. While the scene may lack the history and kudos of its neighbouring haunts its novel concept as a cinema-plus-brasserie gives it an edge. From sashimi starters to zingy lobster and fregola sarda with mussels in a lip-smacking buttery sauce, the menu leans into the European small-plate zeitgeist with a patriotic performance on the frites and wine list. Come for the foie-gras-and-fig starter – an artistic riff on the French classic which pairs fiendishly well with a glass of Champagne.
CAFE DE FLORE
If there is one quintessential Parisian spot, this is it. No trip is complete without a quick café noir outside on a table à deux, watching the left-bank world go by. Founded in 1885, this is one of two original St Germain watering holes where academics would gather to discuss social politics and read Jean-Paul Sartre under Art Deco mirrored walls. Today, locals mix with Breton-striped tourists over croque monsieurs and the best onion soup in town. Head over for brunch or stop by after supper for an aperitif; it’s surprisingly quiet come sundown, so grab a table inside and listen to regulars muse over the events of the day with patient waiters.
COMICE
The bulk of Paris’s famed haute cuisine is fiscally out of reach for many. However Michelin-starred Comice, headed by Canadian chef Noam Gedalof and sommelier Etheliya Hananova (the two are married), is an indulgence that won’t completely melt your credit card. The look strikes a similar balance: elegant but relaxed, with striking arrangements from a renowned local florist. Hananova’s wine list — which features lesser-known wines from around the world — is terrific, as is Gedalof’s light, inventive contemporary French cooking. Try the duck foie gras with hazelnuts, strawberries, balsamic, and black pepper or the butter-poached lobster with sweet pea and mascarpone ravioli.
MARSAN PAR HÉLÈNE DARROZE
The smart Left Bank address – a short-ish walk over the river from many of the other restaurants here – hasn’t changed and nor have its regulars. But Marsan by Hélène Darroze (who recently scored three Michelin stars for her outpost in London) is relatively new otherwise, opening in 2019 as a fresh incarnation. The name is a tribute to her home region in Landes, and there’s no doubting the sincerity of her attachment to the south-west and its flavours.
L'OISEAU BLANC & LE ROOFTOP
On top of the Hotel The Peninsula Paris you find both a luxurious rooftop restaurant (L'Oiseau Blanc) and a fantastic rooftop bar (Le Rooftop). Both venues offer amazing and panoramic 360-degree vistas, with the Eiffel Tower as a mighty backdrop. Enjoy the very best of French cuisine in the all indoor rooftop restaurant, or grab a lounge sofa in the al-fresco rooftop garden and cocktail bar. Whatever you choose, you are in for a luxurious treat, not soon to be forgotten.
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WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PARIS ?
The City of Light has so much to offer that it would be impossible to experience everything in just one visit. Capital of Art, Fashion and History, Paris is home to many emblematic monuments, must-see spots and delightful areas where you can enjoy true Parisian life. We picked a list of essentials for you to experience Paris at its best.
ENJOY A 360 DEGREE VIEW FROM THE STEPS OF THE SACRE COEUR
The Sacré Coeur lies on the highest hill in Paris and is located in the charmingMontmartre neighbourhood. To enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Paris, walk up the
hill and admire the panorama. For an even more stunning experience, climb the 300 steps to the top of the Dome of Sacré Coeur and appreciate a unique sunset. Montmartre
neighbourhood is also not to be missed with its small cobbled alleys, its street artists and its village edge which will take you back to the heart of bohemian Paris.
hill and admire the panorama. For an even more stunning experience, climb the 300 steps to the top of the Dome of Sacré Coeur and appreciate a unique sunset. Montmartre
neighbourhood is also not to be missed with its small cobbled alleys, its street artists and its village edge which will take you back to the heart of bohemian Paris.
WANDER AND SHOP IN THE MARAIS
The Marais is located in the 3rd and 4th “arrondissements” of Paris and is the city’s oldest Jewish quarter. With time, it has become one of the trendiest neighbourhoods of Paris where you can find countless small designer boutiques alongside amazing thrift shops and concept stores. Explore the Marais simply by strolling and losing yourself in its
charming little streets, filled with restaurants and small typical Parisian bars. If you are looking for a nice thing to eat on the go, you should give a try to “L’As du Falafel” which is
the most renowned falafel restaurant in Paris and for a good reason ! The Haut Marais, between République and Rue de Bretagne is home to some of the coolest concept stores
and fashion shops in Paris such as Merci, Empreintes or Tom Greyhound. A must-do if you like trendy outfits! After a nice session of shopping, get some rest in Place des Vosges, a
beautiful garden surrounded by red brick arcades where you can have a picnic and enjoy the sun.
charming little streets, filled with restaurants and small typical Parisian bars. If you are looking for a nice thing to eat on the go, you should give a try to “L’As du Falafel” which is
the most renowned falafel restaurant in Paris and for a good reason ! The Haut Marais, between République and Rue de Bretagne is home to some of the coolest concept stores
and fashion shops in Paris such as Merci, Empreintes or Tom Greyhound. A must-do if you like trendy outfits! After a nice session of shopping, get some rest in Place des Vosges, a
beautiful garden surrounded by red brick arcades where you can have a picnic and enjoy the sun.
MEET AND GREAT WITH MONA LISA AT THE LOUVRE
Do we need to introduce the Louvre ? The most famous museum in Paris is the most visited museum in the world with more than 10 million visitors each year and we
understand why. You should know that the Louvre is huge, and you will not be able to see everything in one visit (or even in 10 visits). We therefore recommend that you do not put
pressure on yourself and prepare your plan in advance. Think about the works you want to see and the wings you want to focus on to enjoy better and not in a hurry. If you want to
see the highlights like Mona Lisa or the Venus de Milo, you can get there quickly during your tour. Note that if you want to avoid big queues, choose to visit early in the morning (before 10am) or at the end of the day on Wednesdays and Fridays, as the museum rooms are open until 9.30pm on these days.
understand why. You should know that the Louvre is huge, and you will not be able to see everything in one visit (or even in 10 visits). We therefore recommend that you do not put
pressure on yourself and prepare your plan in advance. Think about the works you want to see and the wings you want to focus on to enjoy better and not in a hurry. If you want to
see the highlights like Mona Lisa or the Venus de Milo, you can get there quickly during your tour. Note that if you want to avoid big queues, choose to visit early in the morning (before 10am) or at the end of the day on Wednesdays and Fridays, as the museum rooms are open until 9.30pm on these days.
BE AMAZED BY LOUIS VUITTON FOUNDATION
In the heart of the Jardin d'Acclimatation in the Bois de Boulogne, stands a spectacular building resembling a designer ocean liner made of glass. This is the Louis Vuitton
Foundation, one of the latest art attractions in Paris which hosts Bernard Arnault’s private collection of Art and temporary exhibitions. Frank Ghery, the architect, used abstract lines
to create the 12 sails that border the building and you can learn more about his design ideas in a small exhibition at the Foundation. The building itself is worth a visit but inside you will discover a great collection of pieces including Sarah Morris, Christian Boltanski or Ellsworth Kelly works, among others. Check their website on a regular basis to find out
which exhibition is on during your stay. We recommend booking in advance, especially on the weekends because the Foundation attracts many tourists and locals. After your visit,
you can enjoy a nice walk in the Jardin d'Acclimatation to get some fresh air before going back to the busy streets of Paris.
Foundation, one of the latest art attractions in Paris which hosts Bernard Arnault’s private collection of Art and temporary exhibitions. Frank Ghery, the architect, used abstract lines
to create the 12 sails that border the building and you can learn more about his design ideas in a small exhibition at the Foundation. The building itself is worth a visit but inside you will discover a great collection of pieces including Sarah Morris, Christian Boltanski or Ellsworth Kelly works, among others. Check their website on a regular basis to find out
which exhibition is on during your stay. We recommend booking in advance, especially on the weekends because the Foundation attracts many tourists and locals. After your visit,
you can enjoy a nice walk in the Jardin d'Acclimatation to get some fresh air before going back to the busy streets of Paris.
HUNT FOR TREASURES AT SAINT-OUEN FLEA MARKET
Les Puces de Saint-Ouen are a whole world of their own and are made up of little maze-like alleys where you could stroll for hours. This 150-year-old market is home to hundreds
of stalls and antique shops where you can find absolute treasures for all budgets. You can spend hours in this veritable open-air cabinet of curiosities and get your hands on vintage
gems: from an antique dresser to a baroque mirror and vintage couture dress, the perfect find is waiting for you. You will also appreciate the market’s atmosphere, unique and
typically Parisian. After this escapade, you can enjoy the restaurant Ma Cocotte, designed by Phillipe Stark: an institution in Saint-Ouen !
of stalls and antique shops where you can find absolute treasures for all budgets. You can spend hours in this veritable open-air cabinet of curiosities and get your hands on vintage
gems: from an antique dresser to a baroque mirror and vintage couture dress, the perfect find is waiting for you. You will also appreciate the market’s atmosphere, unique and
typically Parisian. After this escapade, you can enjoy the restaurant Ma Cocotte, designed by Phillipe Stark: an institution in Saint-Ouen !
DON'T SPEND TOO MUCH TIME AT THE EIFFEL TOWER
We could not write about Paris without talking about the Eiffel Tower. Even if Eiffel Tower is Paris most famous landmark, the climb is not really worth it as it is not even the
best view you can get of the city. If it’s your first visit, you should probably go see it from le Jardin du Trocadero where you can look at the Iron Lady from above, but we do not
recommend to ascend the hundreds of steps to the top. Since the terrorist attacks in 2015, it is now impossible to walk underneath the monument and there are strong security lines.
If you truly want to go there, your best bet is to make a reservation at Le Jules Verne, Alain Ducasse’s gastronomic restaurant to use the VIP elevator and skip the queue. Last but not least, keep in mind there are a lot of tourists around, so beware of pickpockets and scams.
best view you can get of the city. If it’s your first visit, you should probably go see it from le Jardin du Trocadero where you can look at the Iron Lady from above, but we do not
recommend to ascend the hundreds of steps to the top. Since the terrorist attacks in 2015, it is now impossible to walk underneath the monument and there are strong security lines.
If you truly want to go there, your best bet is to make a reservation at Le Jules Verne, Alain Ducasse’s gastronomic restaurant to use the VIP elevator and skip the queue. Last but not least, keep in mind there are a lot of tourists around, so beware of pickpockets and scams.
ESCAPE PARIS'S BUSTLE IN LUXEMBOURG GARDEN
Luxembourg Garden is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Latin Quarter. It is one of the Parisians favourite places in the city, where they like to walk, jog or
even have a picnic. The “Jardin du Luxembourg” is the perfect spot to take a step back from Paris hustle and enjoy a nice stroll in spring or summer. You will also encounter more than 100 statues representing French queens and a small orchard with rare apple varieties and an old apiary (which the honey is even sold during fall). A great area for Parisian and
tourists to chill and relax !
even have a picnic. The “Jardin du Luxembourg” is the perfect spot to take a step back from Paris hustle and enjoy a nice stroll in spring or summer. You will also encounter more than 100 statues representing French queens and a small orchard with rare apple varieties and an old apiary (which the honey is even sold during fall). A great area for Parisian and
tourists to chill and relax !
TICKETS FOR PARIS ACTIVITIES
Discover and book the best activities, attractions and museums in Paris.
STORES AND SHOPPING CENTERS IN PARIS
LES GALERIES LAFAYETTE
One of the world’s most famous shopping centers is at a mere 300 meters from the Opera Garnier. This place is also known for its temporary sales and Christmas lights. Thanks to the variety of shops as well as the different prices each will sell their wares for, anyone can shop over there.
LE BON MARCHE
At no more than a 10-minute walk from the Luxembourg Garden and a 15-minute walk from the Tour Montparnasse is where you will find the famous boutique, Bon Marché. Bon Marché was the first high-class department store in Paris and greatly contributed to the image of luxury that France currently enjoys.
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THE BEST WAY TO GO AND MOVE IN PARISAIRPORT
Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Paris Roissy TRAIN STATION Paris Gare de Lyon NATIONAL TRAIN COMPANY SNCF |
CDG Airport is located 23 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of Paris, in the town of Roissy. Charles de Gaulle Airport is named after Charles de Gaulle, who not only was the leader of the Free French Forces during WWII, he also founded the French Fifth Republic and was the president of France from 1959 to 1969. CDG Airport is a hub for Air France, Air France Cargo and FedEx Express and a focus city for airlines such as AirFrance Hop, easyJet and Vueling.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PARIS ?
The best times to visit Paris are spring, summer and beginning of fall. Months we particularly recommend for a visit are May, June, July for spring/summer and September/October for autumn. You will appreciate long hours of sunshine in the summer and nice temperatures beginning of fall. Keep in mind that Paris hosts more than 30 millions of tourists every year, so expect some crowds and lines all year.
READY TO DISCOVER THE CITY OF LIGHTS ?
If you plan to travel to Paris, there are plenty of ways to do so.
Whether you take the plane, the train or a car if you are already in France - Paris is well served. There are two major airports in Paris : Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Charles de
Gaulle airport is mainly dedicated to international flights from all over the world whereas Orly is for short and European flights. They are both located less than 25 kilometers from
the city centre and it’s quite easy to reach it when you arrive. Taxis are the easiest and quickest way to go in the city, but also the most expensive. You can choose to take shuttle
services or RER (suburban metro) but it will take longer and might be crowded. If you are already in France and want to visit Paris, the best option for you is the train. There are 6 big stations in Paris serving almost every corner of France. The rail network is quite good, cheap and fast. Keep in mind that there is a lot of traffic in Paris suburbs so if you decide to travel Paris by car, count around 1 hour more on your trip.
We are sure that Paris will amaze you with its thousand facets and unforgettable beauty. Don't forget to buy croissants during your stay.
Whether you take the plane, the train or a car if you are already in France - Paris is well served. There are two major airports in Paris : Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Charles de
Gaulle airport is mainly dedicated to international flights from all over the world whereas Orly is for short and European flights. They are both located less than 25 kilometers from
the city centre and it’s quite easy to reach it when you arrive. Taxis are the easiest and quickest way to go in the city, but also the most expensive. You can choose to take shuttle
services or RER (suburban metro) but it will take longer and might be crowded. If you are already in France and want to visit Paris, the best option for you is the train. There are 6 big stations in Paris serving almost every corner of France. The rail network is quite good, cheap and fast. Keep in mind that there is a lot of traffic in Paris suburbs so if you decide to travel Paris by car, count around 1 hour more on your trip.
We are sure that Paris will amaze you with its thousand facets and unforgettable beauty. Don't forget to buy croissants during your stay.
Bon voyage !
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