Paris Travel Guide 2024
The ultimate guide to Paris, France. Discover 42+ top attractions, insider transportation tips, best accommodation deals, and money-saving secrets for your perfect Parisian adventure.
Top Attractions in Paris
From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, discover the best places to visit in the City of Light
Eiffel Tower
📍 Champ de Mars • ⭐ Must-see
The iconic iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars, one of the most recognizable structures in the world and symbol of Paris.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or Line 9 to Trocadéro
• €1.90 per ticket, €14.90 for day pass
💡 Tip: Trocadéro offers the best photo views
🎫 Current Deals:
Skip-the-Line Tower Access
Save 2 hours waiting time • Valid until Jan 2026
📍 GPS: 48.8584, 2.2945
Louvre Museum
📍 1st Arrondissement • ⭐ Must-see
World's largest art museum housing the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and countless masterpieces spanning centuries.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line 1 or 7 to Palais-Royal–Musée du Louvre
• Direct underground access from metro
💡 Pro Tip
Visit on Wednesday or Friday evenings for extended hours and fewer crowds
Notre-Dame Cathedral
📍 Île de la Cité • 🏗️ Under restoration
Gothic masterpiece on Île de la Cité, currently under restoration following the 2019 fire. Exterior viewing available.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line 4 to Cité or RER B/C to Saint-Michel
• Short walk across the Seine
ℹ️ Current Status
Exterior viewing only during restoration. Expected reopening: 2024
Getting Around Paris
Master Paris transportation with our comprehensive guide to metro, buses, and more
Paris Metro
Pricing: €1.90 per ticket, €14.90 day pass
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM - 1:15 AM (2:15 AM Fri/Sat)
Best For: Quick city center travel
💡 Money-Saving Tip
Buy a weekly Navigo pass for €22.80 if staying 4+ days
City Buses
Pricing: €1.90 per ticket (same as metro)
Operating Hours: 7 AM - 8:30 PM (varies by line)
Best For: Scenic routes, reaching outer areas
🌟 Scenic Route
Bus 82 offers beautiful Seine river views
Parking & Cars
Pricing: €2-4 per hour in city center
Availability: Very limited near attractions
Best For: Day trips outside Paris
⚠️ Important
Public transport strongly recommended for city center
Where to Stay in Paris
From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, find the perfect accommodation for your Paris stay
Hotel des Invalides
Elegant hotel near major attractions with classic Parisian charm and modern amenities.
Price Range: €180-250 per night
Distance to Eiffel Tower: 10 minutes walk
Best For: Luxury travelers, couples
Eiffel Trocadéro Hotel
Boutique hotel with stunning Eiffel Tower views and prime location in the 16th arrondissement.
Price Range: €120-180 per night
Distance to Eiffel Tower: 5 minutes walk
Best For: First-time visitors, Instagram photos
🏙️ Best Neighborhoods to Stay
1st & 4th Arrondissement
Central location, walking distance to Louvre and Notre-Dame
7th Arrondissement
Near Eiffel Tower, elegant and safe area
Montmartre (18th)
Artistic quarter, great views, vibrant nightlife
Safety in Paris
City-specific safety tips and areas to be aware of while exploring Paris
📍 Areas Requiring Extra Caution
Metro System
Lines 1, 4, 6, 9, and RER B have higher pickpocket rates
💡 Keep bags zipped and in front during rush hours
Tourist Attractions
Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Champs-Élysées: petition scams, pickpocketing
💡 Ignore people with petitions or trying to put bracelets on you
Gare du Nord Area
Higher crime rates, drug activity, aggressive panhandling
💡 Stay alert, use official taxis, don't linger in the area
💡 Paris Safety Tips
Use the 'buddy system' when exploring at night
Be cautious of 'gold ring' and 'petition' scams
Validate metro tickets to avoid fines
Download offline maps to avoid looking lost
Keep copies of documents separate from originals
Learn basic French phrases for emergencies
🚨 Paris Emergency Contacts
Police
17
Medical
15
Fire
18
EU Emergency
112
Tourist Police
0800 40 17 17
Current Paris Deals & Offers
Save money on your Paris trip with these exclusive deals and money-saving tips
Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower
Avoid the crowds with priority access to all levels of the Eiffel Tower.
Savings: Save 2+ hours waiting time
Valid Until: January 2026
✅ Available for selected time slots
Seine Cruise + Eiffel Tower
Combined ticket for Eiffel Tower access and 1-hour Seine river cruise.
Discount: 20% off when booked together
Valid Until: February 2026
🌟 Perfect for romantic evenings
💰 Money-Saving Tips
- • Many museums are free on first Sunday of each month
- • Buy groceries at Monoprix or Franprix for budget meals
- • Happy hour at cafés is typically 5-7 PM
- • Free walking tours available in multiple languages
- • Parks and gardens are free and perfect for picnics
- • Student discounts available with valid ID
Insider Tips for Paris
Local secrets and expert advice to make your Paris experience unforgettable
Local Food Culture
Visit local boulangeries for fresh croissants in the morning. Parisians typically eat dinner after 8 PM. Try authentic French pastries at neighborhood patisseries.
Best Photo Spots
Trocadéro offers the best Eiffel Tower views. Visit Sacré-Cœur at sunset for panoramic city views. The bridges over the Seine provide romantic photo opportunities.
Best Times to Visit
Visit major attractions early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Many museums offer extended hours on specific weekdays. Spring and fall offer the best weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Paris?
We recommend at least 4-5 days to see the major attractions comfortably. This allows time for museums, landmarks, and experiencing Parisian culture without rushing.
Is Paris expensive for tourists?
Paris can be expensive, but there are many ways to save money. Use our deals above, eat at local bistros instead of tourist areas, and take advantage of free attractions and museums.
Do I need to speak French in Paris?
While many Parisians speak English, learning basic French phrases is appreciated. Most tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants have English-speaking staff.