carte visit paris

Paris Visit

One-day or multi-day transportation pass in Paris

Paris Visite

Paris Visite is a transport pass that allows you to use all public transport networks in Paris : metro, tram, bus, RER trains and SNCF Transilien.

It is available for 1, 2, 3 and 5 days. It starts counting from the first use, even at the end of the day, take this into account to get the most out of it.

It is not a single-use plastic card, it is a simple cardboard ticket that you can buy at the station machines.

What transport can I use with Paris Visite?

With this pass you can use the public network buses , metro , RER (trains), trams , Orlyval , Noctilien (night buses) and Montmartre Funicular .

Is the entire center of Paris covered by the Paris Visit?

Yes, to move around the center of Paris you only need Paris Visit Zones 1-3.

Can I get to Disneyland Paris with the Paris Visit?

Yes. You can get to Disneyland Paris using the Paris Visite. Zones 1-5.

Can I get to Versailles Using the Paris Visit?

Yes. You can get to the Palace of Versailles using the Paris Visite. Zones 1-5.

Can I get from the airport to Paris with the Paris Visite?

Yes. You can arrive from Orly or from Charles de Gaulle Airport using the Paris Visite. Zones 1-5.

Paris Visit prices

Zones 1-3 (central paris, does not include airports).

• 1 day – €12.06
• 2 days – €19.50
• 3 days – €26.65
• 5 days – €38,355

Zones 1-3 (children under 10 years old)

• 2 days – €9.75
• 3 days – €13.30
• 5 days – €19.15

Zones 1-5 (includes Charles de Gaulle , Orly , Disneyland   and   Versailles )

• 1 day – €25.50
• 2 days – €38.35
• 3 days – €53.75
• 5 days – €65.80

Zones 1-5 (children under 10 years old)

• 1 day – €12.60
• 2 days – €19.15
• 3 days – €26.85
• 5 days – €32.90

Where to buy the Paris Visit?

You can buy the Paris Visite travel passes at the ticket offices and in the automatic vending machines of all RATP stations.

Discounts for holders of the Paris Visit

Arc de Triomphe : 20% discount Conciergerie (Palace of Justice) : 20% discount Museum of the Army or Invalides : 20% discount on admission to the permanent collection Bateaux Parisiens Ships: 25% discount Grevin Museum : 30% off discount Montparnasse Tower : 30% discount Shopping at Galeries Lafayette : 10% discount

Differences between Navigo and Paris Visite

You can see more on our page Differences between Navigo and Paris Visite .

Other transport passes in Paris:

• Tarjeta Navigo

Weekend Youth Ticket

Paris Visite Pass: Benefits and How to Use It

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

If you're looking for an easy, stress-free and cost-efficient way to travel on the Paris Metro, the Paris Visite Pass may be the right choice for you. Unlike individual metro tickets, this pass gives you unlimited travel in Paris (Metro, RER, bus, tramway, and regional SNCF trains) and the greater Paris region for several days at a time.

You can choose between passes that cover all your travel 1, 2, 3 or 5 days, and--an added boon that many visitors appreciate--Paris Visite also gets you discounts at several museums, attractions, and restaurants around the French capital.

Which Pass Should I Choose? 

It really depends on whether you're planning to spend most of your time in Paris proper, or are hoping to extensively explore the wider region, particularly through nearby day trips from the city center.  

• As a general rule, the zone 1-3 card will be adequate to really take advantage of central Paris and the near suburbs.
• You should choose the zone 1-5 card to see attractions outside Paris including the Chateau de Versailles or Disneyland Paris .
• The 1-5 card also provides travel to and from Paris' main airports (Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and/or Orly), so it may be well worth the cost. 

How to Make the Most of the Pass

Once you have purchased your pass online or from an agent in a Paris Metro ticket stand (do not purchase through the automatic machines as these will not provide you with the required card component) make sure to take the following steps before using the pass:

• Write your first and last name on the card (please this is a required step: you can be penalized by an agent if asked to show your pass and you have not done this). 
• Look for the serial number on the back of your non-transferable card and write this number on the magnetic ticket accompanying the card.
• If you do not see a start and end date on the magnetic ticket, go ahead and write these in yourself. This will prevent unnecessary hassles if a Metro agent asks to see your card.

You're now ready to use your pass. Remember that the pass may only be used by the person it's attributed to by name, and may not be transferred.

Lost Card? Pass Not Working Properly? Other Problems?

If you run into any problems using your card, have lost it or wish to change your number of zones, see the official RATP site for help.

Why Can't I Use the Digital "Navigo" Metro Passes I've Seen Parisians Using?

Technically, tourists can get a Navigo pass, which is indeed less expensive than the Paris Visite Pass (and also offers no frills). It's usually not worth the red tape unless you'll be in Paris for at least a month or come to the city on a regular basis since you'll need to provide a photo of yourself and formally apply for the card at one of several agencies. It can be a nice choice for travelers who come to Paris often since you can keep the card and recharge it whenever you wish. If you're interested in learning about how to buy and use the Navigo for an extended stay or repeated trips, read  an excellent primer on how to crack the Navigo system , if you decide it's worth a try.

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31 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Whether sunshine is sparkling on the café terraces of Boulevard Saint-Germain, or melancholy mists of the Seine River are shrouding Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris has a way of romancing visitors. The love affair might begin with a first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, then continue with strolls along the wide tree-lined avenues and in lavish formal gardens.

The city is seductively beautiful. Each neighborhood ( quartier ) reveals its unique personality. The Latin Quarter is a small cluster of pedestrian streets and narrow medieval alleyways where bookshops vie for space with university students' cafés and eateries. The fashionable Champs-Élysées buzzes with energy. Outside the city center, Montmartre still feels like a country village and flaunts its bohemian past.

After seeing the museums and monuments, you will want to seek out the small surprises, like family-run bistros with handwritten menus; cobblestone lanes full of quaint shops; secluded squares adorned with flowing fountains; and elegant tea salons, where dainty jewel-like desserts beckon from glass-covered pastry cases.

In every hidden corner and at all the famous sites, Paris casts a spell of enchantment. One visit may inspire a lifelong passion.

Discover what makes the City of Light so captivating and learn about the best places to explore with our list of the top tourist attractions in Paris.

See also: Where to Stay in Paris

1. Eiffel Tower

2. musée du louvre, 3. avenue des champs-élysées, 4. musée d'orsay, 5. palais garnier, opéra national de paris, 6. cathédrale notre-dame de paris, 7. place de la concorde, 8. arc de triomphe, 9. hôtel de la marine, 10. jardin des tuileries, 11. seine river cruises, 12. musical concerts at sainte-chapelle, 13. bustling boulevards and legendary cafés, 14. jardin du luxembourg, 15. sacré-coeur and quartier montmartre, 16. panthéon, 17. place des vosges, 18. musée rodin, 19. place vendôme, 20. centre pompidou, 21. hôtel national des invalides, 22. domaine national du palais-royal, 23. place de la bastille, 24. place du châtelet and tour saint-jacques, 25. la conciergerie, 26. fondation louis vuitton, 27. parc de la villette, 28. paris plages, 29. cimetière du père lachaise, 30. parc des buttes-chaumont, 31. grande arche de la défense, where to stay in paris for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to paris, best time to visit paris, france.

The Eiffel Tower (la Tour Eiffel) ranks high on the list of places to visit in France and is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the world. So it's hard to believe that the structure was originally dismissed as a monstrosity. The innovative metal structure shocked Victorian-era audiences when it was unveiled by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel for the Paris Exhibition of 1889 .

Whether loved or hated, the Eiffel Tower has always impressed. Reaching a height of 324 meters, the tower is comprised of 18,000 sturdy iron sections held together by 2.5 million rivets. Although no longer the world's tallest building, the Eiffel Tower has achieved the status of an icon.

For first-time visitors, seeing the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival at the esplanade, the sight of the four massive pillars that support this 10,100-ton monument leaves many awestruck.

Author's Tip : Purchase your tickets to the Eiffel Tower in advance online. You first choose a specific date and during the online process, you will reserve a specific time slot for the visit. (You must arrive on time.) Tickets sell out during high season (July and August), so you should purchase your tickets as far in advance as possible.

When you arrive at the Eiffel Tower, you will first walk through the esplanade gardens. Then you will look for the correct queue (which will be labeled "Visitors with tickets"). The recently renovated gardens feature leafy trees and pedestrian pathways with close-up views of the Iron Lady.

To arrive at the Eiffel Tower's 1st floor (at 57 meters) requires an elevator ride or a walk up the 360 steps. This level has public restrooms, a gift shop, a cafeteria, a brasserie restaurant, and an open-air terrace space for admiring the views.

The 2nd floor (at 125 meters) of the Eiffel Tower is reached from the 1st floor by a staircase of 344 more steps or an elevator ride. This level has similar amenities as the 1st floor, except the viewing platforms offer a perspective onto more of the Paris monuments (such as the Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur).

A highlight of the 2nd floor, the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne delivers exceptional haute cuisine in a dreamy setting. The restaurant's dining rooms feature expansive windows, which provide a peak of the Eiffel Tower's structural beams and glimpses of Paris cityscapes. You'll also find a buffet-style cafeteria and the Pierre Hermé macaron boutique.

To arrive at the top floor (276 meters in elevation) requires an exhilarating elevator ride from the 2nd floor. The staircases only go up to the 2nd floor, so climbing up to the top is not an option.

Visiting the top floor of the Eiffel Tower is one of the most thrilling things to do in Paris , but it's not for the faint of heart. When you walk out onto the compact viewing platform at this level, you are overwhelmed by the far-reaching views and strong gusts of wind. Up this high, it feels like another world, and you can no longer hear the noise of street traffic below.

You definitely will want to spend some time taking photos of the Eiffel Tower. From either the Jardins du Trocadéro (a short walk across the Seine River) or the Parc du Champ de Mars (the lawns in front of the tower), there is just the right distance for picture-perfect photo-ops.

Address: La Tour Eiffel, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris (Métro: Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, Iéna, or Passy station)

The Louvre is the most prestigious of Paris' museums and the crème de la crème of the city's cultural attractions. Besides its exceptional art collection, the building has a regal past: The Louvre was formerly the residential palace of France's kings.

Today, the Musée du Louvre displays thousands of artworks, many of which are considered masterpieces, from antiquities to European paintings of the 15th to 19th centuries.

It is impossible to see it all in one visit, but you can focus on a particular gallery, such as classical sculpture, Italian Renaissance art, or 17th-century French paintings, or take a self-guided tour to cover the Louvre Museum's highlights.

Of course, you will want to get a look at the Mona Lisa or La Gioconda (or La Joconde in French) painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1503-1505. Many tourists breeze through the museum just to glance at this one piece, but there are other must-see works of art to admire even if time is limited.

Other masterpieces of the Louvre include the ancient Vénus de Milo sculpture; the monumental Victoire de Samothrace of the Hellenistic period; the immense Wedding Feast at Cana painting by Veronese (1563); Sandro Botticelli's Venus and the Three Graces fresco; and Liberty Leading the People (1831) by Eugène Delacroix, depicting the Parisian uprising of July 1830.

To get the most out of a visit to the Louvre, join a guided tour. The museum offers tours in multiple languages. These focus on the highlights and provide information on the palace.

The Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Tour is another option that also takes you straight to the museum's most famous artworks, including the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa . On this three-hour tour, a guide (who is an art historian) provides in-depth commentary about the masterpieces.

Author's Tips : Most visitors enter the museum in the courtyard of the palace at the Pyramid du Louvre , the glass pyramid designed by Ieoh Ming Pei in 1917. This entrance almost always has long lines. The wait is especially long without a timed entrance ticket. (See tips below for alternative entrances to the museum.)

Avoid the lines of the Pyramid entrance by going to one of the lesser-known entrances. If you already have a Louvre museum ticket or a Paris Museum Pass, head to the Carrousel entrance (99 Rue de Rivoli) where you likely can walk right in without waiting in line. You may save some time at this entrance if you haven't reserved a specific time slot for admission.

Purchase a museum pass : If you plan to visit multiple museums, you can save money and time by purchasing a Paris Museum Pass . The savings depends on how many museums you visit. The advantage is that you don't have to purchase a ticket at each museum. However, you still need to reserve a specific time slot (free of charge) to visit the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and Château de Versailles (otherwise you may have to wait in line).

If you have not already purchased a ticket or Paris Museum Pass, you may use the Porte des Lions entrance on the 4 Quai François Mitterrand.

Address: Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris (Métro: Palais-Royal Musée du Louvre or Pyramides station)

Brimming with fancy boutiques and dining terraces, the Champs-Élysées epitomizes the fashionable panache of Paris.

You'd never guess that the most monumental boulevard in Paris used to be a desolate swamp. The marshland was converted into an avenue by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre in the 17th century. Two centuries later, the city planner Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann added the grey stone Mansard-roofed buildings that give the boulevard its classic Parisian look.

The Champs-Élysées is divided into two parts with the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées as its intersection.

The lower part of the Champs-Élysées, bordering the Place de la Concorde , includes a spacious park, the Jardins des Champs-Élysées , and the Petit Palais fine arts museum. The upper part, extending to the Arc de Triomphe, is lined by luxury shops, hotels, restaurants, cafés, cinemas, and theaters. This bustling area draws many tourists and is a gathering place for Parisians.

The Champs-Élysées is famous for its prestigious establishments, such as Maison Ladurée (75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), a pâtisserie boutique and tea salon that offers exquisite French pastries (macarons are the house specialty), and upscale designer boutiques like Tiffany & Co. (62 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), Louis-Vuitton (101 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), and Cartier (154 Avenue des Champs-Élysées).

For fine dining , the top choices are the legendary brasserie Fouquet's (99 Avenue des Champs-Élysées) and the swanky gastronomic restaurant L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile (133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), which has one Michelin star.

Although the Champs-Élysées has an image of refinement, there are many affordable places that cater to tourists and students on a budget, such as Starbucks, Quick, Burger King, and McDonald's.

Address: Avenue des Champs-Elysées, 75008 Paris (Métro: Champs-Élysées Clemenceau station to visit the Jardins des Champs-Élysées and Petit Palais, Franklin d. Roosevelt station for Ladurée, George V station for the main shopping area).

You haven't seen the best of French art until you visit the Musée d'Orsay . The Musée du Louvre may hold the most masterpieces of European painting, but the Musée d'Orsay focuses on works by celebrated French artists including Monet, Renoir, and Degas.

If you love Impressionist art , this is the place to go. The Musée d'Orsay displays a splendid collection of 19th- and 20th-century art (created from 1848 to 1914).

Although the museum's inventory begins with 19th-century Realist paintings and landscape paintings, the highlight of the museum is the Impressionism collection. Also on display are Post-Impressionist works by artists such as Pierre Bonnard, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh, and bohemian artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Some of the museum's famous paintings include Claude Monet's The Magpie , Gare Saint-Lazare, Poppy Field , and Luncheon on the Grass ; Vincent van Gogh's self-portrait and Starry Night ; and Renoir's Dance at Moulin de la Galette, which depicts a festive party scene in Montmartre.

You may rent an audioguide to take a self-guided tour. The commentary (available in English and French) covers over 300 works.

The museum also has a bookstore/gift shop, two casual cafés, and a fine-dining restaurant, which is worth the splurge. Formerly the Hôtel d'Orsay (a luxury hotel within the original Gare d'Orsay) and listed as a Monument Historique , the Musée d'Orsay Restaurant features gilded ceilings and sparkling chandeliers.

On the square in front of the museum, there is a kiosk that sells sandwiches and falafel.

Address: Musée d'Orsay, Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing 75007 Paris (Métro: Musée d'Orsay, Assemblée Nationale, or Solférino station)

Commissioned by Napoleon III in 1860, the Palais Garnier Opera House was designed by Charles Garnier in an exuberant Baroque style. Garnier worked tirelessly on the project for over a decade, from 1862 to 1875. Today, this show-stopping landmark is a symbol of Napoleon's Imperial regime.

Upon entering the building, you are dazzled by the lavish 11,000-square-meter interior. Much of the building's space is dedicated to the main foyer with its fabulous Grand Escalier , marble entrance staircase, adorned by ornate gilded lamps, and the Salon du Glacier , a sumptuous Belle Époque hall decorated with mirrors, Corinthian columns painted gold, colorful mosaics, and music-themed ceiling paintings.

The horseshoe-shaped auditorium has an intimate feel, although it can accommodate 2,105 people in its plush velvet seats. Gilded balconies, an enormous crystal chandelier, and a Chagall ceiling painting add to the theater's marvelousness, creating the perfect dramatic backdrop for ballet, opera, and music performances.

The Opéra Garnier hosts a prestigious calendar of events in addition to galas. Attending a performance is one of the most exciting things to do in Paris at night. It's a wonderful way to see the building's interior while enjoying a glamorous evening. Another option is to visit (entry ticket required) on a self-guided tour or take a guided tour during the daytime.

Connoisseurs of fine dining will be delighted to discover CoCo, a chic restaurant within the Opera House (entrance is at 1 Place Jacques Rouché) that serves contemporary French cuisine prepared from seasonal ingredients. CoCo offers lunch and dinner daily, as well as weekend brunch (every Saturday and Sunday) featuring musical entertainment. The garden terrace is open Tuesday through Saturday during summertime. Reservations are recommended.

Address: Palais Garnier, Place de l'Opéra, 8 Rue Scribe (at Auber) 75009 Paris (Métro: Opéra, Chaussée d'Antin-La Fayette or Havre-Caumartin station)

Despite the damage done by the 2019 fire, it is still worth seeing the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This awe-inspiring medieval monument stands at the heart of Paris on the Île-de-la-Cité, an island in the Seine River. To get here from the Latin Quarter , simply cross the Petit Pont bridge.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris was founded in 1163 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) and Bishop Maurice de Sully, and the construction took more than 150 years. The cathedral was first created in the Early Gothic style, while later additions (the west front and the nave) show the transition to High Gothic style.

Note: A large fire in April of 2019 caused considerable damage to the cathedral: The medieval roof and the 19th-century spire collapsed. However, the monument was partly saved thanks to the work of hundreds of firefighters.

A project to repair the structure is underway. The city plans to rebuild the cathedral and restore it to its previous state. Restoration work is ongoing.

Currently, the interior of the cathedral (including the towers) and the space immediately in front of the cathedral (on the Parvis Notre-Dame) are closed to the public. A few steps away from the cathedral's facade, a section of the Parvis Notre-Dame (square) is now used for educational exhibits about the cathedral.

The Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral anticipates reopening in December 2024. A project to redesign the landscaping around the cathedral is scheduled for completion in 2027.

Until the reopening, the Notre-Dame de Paris congregation will celebrate Mass at the Eglise Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois (2 Place du Louvre) in the 1st arrondissement.

Address: Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Place Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris (Métro: Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station)

The Place de la Concorde stands at the heart of Paris both literally and figuratively. The square was created in 1772 by the architect of King Louis XV. During the French Revolution, the Place de la Concorde was the scene of state-ordered executions , including Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, among other victims of the guillotine. The square was also part of Napoleon's triumphal route.

One of the largest and most central squares in the city, the Place de la Concorde offers a sensational perspective of the city's landmarks. In one direction, you can admire the Arc de Triomphe and in the other, the Louvre, while the Eiffel Tower can be seen in the distance.

Two ornately decorated fountains and an Egyptian obelisk are found in the middle of the square. However, it's a bit of a hassle to get up close because you have to walk through heavy traffic. The Place de la Concorde is one of the busiest intersections in Paris.

Tip for Pedestrians : You will notice cars circulating the square at high speeds. French drivers don't always pay attention to pedestrians. Make sure to get out of the way of oncoming cars!

During summertime , the Place de la Concorde adopts a fairground ambiance, with a Ferris wheel gracing the square from June through August. The neighboring Jardin des Tuileries also has amusement park rides and fairground treats during summertime.

To arrive at the Place de la Concorde, walk from the Louvre through the Jardin des Tuileries or the Rue de Rivoli, or follow the Quai des Tuileries along the Seine River. Alternatively, you may take the Métro to Concorde station.

Nothing says capital city grandeur quite like a triumphal arch. Paris' Arc de Triomphe is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the French armies of the Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Napoleon I commissioned the building of this mighty structure in 1806 but did not live to see its completion in 1836.

The monument was modeled after the Arch of Titus in Rome. The massive 50-meter-high arch features bas-reliefs with larger-than-life-size figures, which depict the departure, victories, and glorious return of the French armies.

Particularly noteworthy is the bas-relief by François Rude on the Champs-Elysées-facing side: Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 , also known as La Marseillaise , illustrating the troops led by the winged spirit of Liberty. On the inner surface of the arch are the names of more than 660 generals and over a hundred battles.

The Arc de Triomphe stands at the end of the Champs-Élysées, presiding over a circular intersection (the Place de l'Étoile).

From the top of the monument, a viewing terrace affords a panoramic outlook onto the 12 avenues that radiate from the Place de l'Étoile, including the route from the Avenue des Champs-Elysées to the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre. It's also possible to see all the way to La Défense, the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre, and the Eiffel Tower.

At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , dedicated in 1921 as a memorial to an anonymous soldier (symbol of the many other unknown soldiers who valiantly died for their country during World War One without ever receiving recognition).

The Flame of Remembrance was ignited at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11th, 1923, and since that date has not ever been extinguished. Every evening at 6:30pm , a ritual takes place to rekindle the memorial flame at the tomb.

Throughout the year, events to honor national holidays are held at the Arc de Triomphe, including the November 11th (anniversary of the Armistice of 1918) ceremony commemorating those who perished in the war; the May 8th Fête de la Victoire (Victory Day) celebrating the end of WWII, and the liberation from Nazi occupation; as well as festivities for July 14th (Bastille Day).

Admission requires an entrance ticket. You may reserve a ticket in advance online. Free admission is included with the Paris Museum Pass (no reservations required). Guided tours are available.

For visitors with reduced mobility and young children, there is an elevator to reach the viewing terrace. Otherwise, you must take the stairs (284 steps).

Address: Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris (Métro: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, Kléber or Argentine station)

A fascinating glimpse of ancien régime (old regime) splendor awaits you at the Hôtel de la Marine . During the reign of Louis XV, this Neoclassical palace housed the apartments of the Intendants du Garde-Meuble de la Couronne (the King's Furniture Storage Intendants). The intendant had an important job: procuring and maintaining the furnishings for the king's elaborate palaces.

The Hôtel de la Marine opened to the public in 2021 after several years of painstaking restoration work. This monument is one of the newest tourist attractions in Paris.

You enter the Hôtel de la Marine through a cobblestone courtyard off the Place de la Concorde. Then walk up the massive marble staircase and into the reception rooms, where you feel like you have stepped back in time. The interior decor has been restored to a state of perfect preservation.

Adorned with gilded moldings and crystal chandeliers, the Salons d'Honneur salons resemble the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles . Other rooms in the Intendant's Apartments reveal the refinement of the Age of Enlightenment.

During this period, aristocratic residences were lavishly decorated with exquisite furnishings, wallpaper, curtains, and paintings. You'll also see precious antiques such as a desk created by Jean-Henri Riesener , a renowned 18th-century cabinetmaker.

The dining room of the Intendant's Apartments, with its floral-patterned porcelain dinnerware, appears ready to welcome guests. On the guided tour, you will learn that the host placed servings of sugar (a precious commodity at the time) on the table to show off his wealth, along with bread, oysters, and bowls of fresh apricots, grapes, figs, and apples.

Be sure to step out onto the Hôtel de la Marine's Loggia , a colonnaded balcony that overlooks the Place de la Concorde. From this privileged spot, you can admire views of the Eiffel Tower, the gold-domed Hôtel National des Invalides, and the Jardins des Champs-Élysées.

Historical Notes : The Hôtel de la Marine is found on the Place de la Concorde, the square created in 1748 to display an equestrian statue of Louis XV and originally called Place Louis XV. During the French Revolution, the statue of the king was removed and the Crown jewels were stolen from the Hôtel de la Marine. In 1795, the square was renamed the "Place de la Concorde."

Treat yourself to some time relaxing and wandering the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries. After visiting the Hôtel de la Marine, the Place de la Concorde, or the Louvre Museum, you should spend some time wandering the nearby Jardin des Tuileries. This French formal garden was designed by celebrated landscape architect André Le Nôtre in the 17th century.

Today the garden offers an escape from the hustle and bustle in central Paris, but the ambiance was not always so idyllic. This garden is the site of the Palais des Tuileries where Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette were essentially imprisoned during the French Revolution. The palace was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century; all that remains is the gorgeous garden.

The leafy grounds feature perfectly manicured trees, statues, and pathways. You can relax on the wooden park benches or on individual green chairs which may be moved around. Find the spot that appeals to you and lounge there for a bit, while listening to birds chirp. You'll see locals having a picnic lunch or reading a book in the sunshine.

For snacks and quick meals, head to La Terrasse de Pomone , a kiosk where you can order crepes and sandwiches to-go or for dining at the outdoor tables; the Petit Plisson kiosk that sells quiches and sandwiches for dining at shaded tables; or Petit Farmers , a purveyor of artisanal ice cream.

The park's two café-restaurants, Le Pavillon des Tuileries and the Café des Marronniers offer casual meals in a tranquil setting beneath the leafy chestnut trees.

Tips : Check the opening hours of the café-restaurants and food kiosks as the hours change during different seasons. You will only find the Petit Farmers ice cream truck & stand at the Jardin des Tuileries from April through October.

Soak up the scenery of Paris on a Seine River cruise. You'll have a chance to see the sights from a different perspective. The Seine River bridges, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum look stunning from the viewpoint of a riverboat.

While a daytime cruise allows you to appreciate the glory of the monuments brightened by sunshine, the most romantic experience is an evening cruise. After sunset, the city's landmarks are illuminated, which creates a special effect, and somehow the city seems more magical.

For a cruise that includes dinner, try the Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches. This luxurious riverboat cruise departs at the Pont de l'Alma (a short walk from the Eiffel Tower) and treats you to a romantic four-course meal. If you prefer a more casual boat ride, a good choice is the Seine River Direct Access Guided Cruise by Vedettes de Paris which includes commentary from a knowledgeable guide and breakfast or lunch.

Gourmands will be tempted by the Ducasse sur Seine restaurant boat, which departs from Port Debilly. This dining cruise offers a haute cuisine experience. Options include a lunch (two, three, or four-course meal) or dinner (four or five-course meal). Menus focus on contemporary-style French dishes prepared from seasonal ingredients.

Sainte-Chapelle is considered a rare jewel among medieval houses of worship and is certainly one of the most exquisite churches in Paris . The ravishing 13th-century chapel is tucked away on the Île-de-la-Cité , just a few blocks (about a 10-minute walk) from the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

This masterpiece of Rayonnant Gothic architecture was built from 1242 to 1248 for King Louis IX (Saint Louis) to house the precious relics he had acquired from the Byzantine Emperor. The altar displays a relic of the Crown of Thorns.

An expanse of 13th-century stained-glass windows sets this chapel apart from any other church in the world. The windows' beauty and brilliance are best appreciated on a sunny day and in the morning. If possible, try to schedule your visit accordingly.

The chapel's over 1,000 stained-glass windows (covering 600 square meters) depict scenes from the bible, both Old Testament and New Testament stories. The colors and light symbolize divinity and the Heavenly Jerusalem.

Only used for church services on rare occasions, Sainte-Chapelle is open to the public as a museum (entrance tickets are required). For an additional fee, audioguides (available in French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese) provide one hour of commentary to help visitors appreciate the art, architecture, and history of Sainte-Chapelle.

To truly experience the serene ambiance of Sainte-Chapelle, attend one of the classical music concerts held here. In the iridescent glow of the sanctuary, performances of Baroque chamber music, sacred music, or Vivaldi string quartets have a sublime quality. A regular program of concerts is held at Sainte-Chapelle year-round, with events scheduled several times a week.

Sainte-Chapelle is located in the Palais de la Cité. To find the chapel, enter the iron gate of the Palais de Justice and walk through the inner courtyard.

Another attraction nearby is La Conciergerie (tourists may purchase combined entry tickets), the prison where Marie-Antoinette was detained during the French Revolution.

Address: Sainte-Chapelle, 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris (Métro: Cité, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame or Châtelet station)

A visit to the City of Light is not complete without spending time on the sidewalk terrace or bustling interior of a famous café. It's the ultimate Parisian people-watching scene and a chance to imagine the historic rendezvous that occurred here.

To discover the legendary Paris cafés, the best place to start is the Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement. This broad tree-lined boulevard features an enticing array of storefronts: designer fashion boutiques, prestigious cafés, and old-fashioned brasseries.

The most celebrated cafés are the Café de Flore (172 Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés), which was the meeting place of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, and Les Deux Magots (6 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés), once the haunt of poets, authors, and artists, including Arthur Rimbaud, Paul Verlaine, James Joyce, Pablo Picasso, and Ernest Hemingway.

Across from Les Deux Magots is the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés , one of the most important churches in Paris .

At both Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, you will get the classic Parisian café experience, complete with waiters wearing bow ties. Although the waiters have a reputation for their brusque service, their formality adds to the authentic ambiance.

The Saint-Germain-des-Prés area also has excellent pâtisserie boutiques, boulangeries, and chocolate shops such as the Ladurée tea salon (21 Rue Bonaparte), the Maison Le Roux Chocolatier & Caramélier (1 Rue de Bourbon le Château), and Debauve & Gallais (30 Rue des Saints-Pères), a boutique founded in 1779 that supplied Marie-Antoinette with chocolates.

Join the Paris Sweet Tooth Stroll small-group tour to sample the neighborhood's finest sweet treats.

The brasseries of Boulevard du Montparnasse were also frequented by artists and writers during the early 20th century. Le Dôme in Montparnasse is a Paris institution (108 Boulevard du Montparnasse) that has attracted luminaries including Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Picasso. In its glittering Art Deco dining room, the restaurant serves exceptional seafood.

Another atmospheric French brasserie with a mythical past, La Coupole (102 Boulevard du Montparnasse) has, since the 1920s, been visited by artists such as André Derain, Fernand Léger, Man Ray, Pablo Picasso, and Marc Chagall as well as the novelist Albert Camus and the philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre.

La Rotonde Montparnasse (105 Boulevard du Montparnasse) has been a gathering place for painters and writers since 1911 and still attracts cinematographers and artists today.

The Jardin du Luxembourg is the best-known park in Paris after the Tuileries. The 25-hectare park features a formal French garden, similar to the Jardin des Tuileries, as well as an English garden with shady groves of overgrown trees.

On a nice day, it's fun to grab a baguette sandwich at a nearby bakery and then find a chair in front of the garden's duck pond. This is the Paris version of going to the beach when the weather is pleasant. You'll notice many local residents taking a lunch break or simply soaking up some sunshine at the park. It's an especially popular spot among students of the Latin Quarter.

You can also visit a rose garden, apiary, Orangerie (orangery), and greenhouses filled with exotic orchids, as well as an orchard where heirloom varieties of apples flourish.

Artistic treasures are found throughout the gardens, such as the picturesque 17th-century Fontaine Médicis , a fountain basin nestled under trees opposite the east front of the Palais du Luxembourg , which today is used by the French state as the seat of the Senate.

Steps away from the Fontaine Médicis is La Terrasse de Madame , a little café-restaurant in a charming setting. You may dine at outdoor tables beneath the leafy chestnut trees. The menu includes coffee and croissants for breakfast and bistro meals for lunch, such as steak, Croque Monsieur (sandwiches), quiche, grilled fish, charcuterie, and salads. Also on the menu are traditional French desserts like profiteroles and crème brûlée .

Children love the playground, which features swings, slides, a sandpit, a games area, and pony rides. A favorite activity for the youngest visitors at the Jardin du Luxembourg is steering miniature sailboats around in the octagonal pool (the boats can be hired at a kiosk by the pond).

For French-speaking kids, watching a puppet show at the Théâtre des Marionnettes is not to be missed. The Théâtre des Marionnettes is a modern venue, in the southwest area of the park near the tennis courts, that accommodates an audience of up to 275 children and adults (which makes it the largest puppet theater in France).

Address: Jardin du Luxembourg, Rue de Vaugirard/Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris (Métro: Luxembourg or Odéon station)

Sitting at the highest point in Paris like an ornamental decoration, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre has a special aura. Its alabaster facade blends Romanesque and Byzantine styles, and from far away, it looks like a wedding cake (which is its nickname).

If you walk to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica from the Métro station, you must walk up the Esplanade, a staircase of over 200 steps, to arrive at the Basilica.

Inside the Basilica, the striking mosaic of Christ with a flaming heart gives the sanctuary an emotional and spiritual intensity, fitting for a church that was created as a symbol of hope after the Franco-Prussian War. In keeping with the somber ambiance, the Basilica's sanctuary is quite dark except for a plethora of flickering candles.

The atmosphere outside the church is quite a contrast, with Parisian joie de vivre in full swing. Locals like to hang out on the grass lawns of the Esplanade while listening to street musicians. You'll see tourists taking selfies, couples embracing, and kids playing on the grass. Below the Esplanade is an old-fashioned carousel, adding to the sense of festivity.

You can spend time on the terrace in front of the Basilica admiring the views of Paris or climb (300 steps) up to the Basilica's Dome for an even higher perspective with unobstructed panoramas. Admission to the Dome requires an entrance fee, but you may visit the Basilica free of charge .

After visiting the Sacré-Coeur, be sure to explore the enchanting neighborhood of Montmartre . This medieval country village (once considered outside of the city) has been incorporated into the city of Paris as the 18th arrondissement.

Montmartre exudes old-fashioned charm along with an avant-garde edge. Winding cobblestone streets and pedestrian staircases lead to small locally owned boutiques and restaurants, art galleries that evoke the quarter's bohemian past, and quiet squares filled with outdoor cafés .

During the Belle Époque, the village of Montmartre began to attract artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Edgar Degas. The bohemian creative spirit of Montmartre is still found here, especially around the Place du Tertre and the Carré Roland Dorgelès .

Montmartre has several excellent art museums, where you can admire the creations of artists who resided here in the late 19th and early 20th century (the Belle Époque). During that era, the quarter was famous for its cabarets and artists' studios.

The Musée de Montmartre (12 Rue Cortot) occupies a historic house where Auguste Renoir, Raoul Dufy, Suzanne Valadon, and other artists once lived and worked. Tucked away within the museum's gardens, you'll find the Café Renoir , which features outdoor seating in the delightful space where Renoir painted several masterpieces.

If you are intrigued by Surrealist art, be sure to visit the Dalí Paris museum (11 Rue Poulbot). This innovative museum displays more than 300 works created by Salvador Dalí. The exhibits are presented in a way that reveals the symbols and motifs used in his artworks.

Address: Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, 35 Rue du Chevalier-de-la-Barre, 75018 Paris (Métro: Abbesses)

The Panthéon is the national mausoleum of France's greatest citizens. You get a sense of the important heritage just by glancing at this grand monument. The colonnaded facade and enormous dome were modeled after the ancient Pantheon in Rome.

The architecture of the Panthéon marks a clear break from the fanciful Rococo style of the Louis XV era and instead presents a simpler and more somber Neoclassical style. The inscription on the Panthéon's facade reads " Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante " (" To the Great Men Recognized by Their Country ").

Many famous men (75 in total) are buried here, including philosophers Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and René Descartes; and the writers Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, Émile Zola, and André Malraux. Although the monument was originally dedicated exclusively to France's male citizens, this has changed recently.

Since 1995, several of France's most esteemed female citizens have been buried in the Panthéon including the physicist Marie Curie, a two-time winner of the Nobel Prize. Five other women are buried at the Panthéon. In November 2021, Josephine Baker (the famous Black American expatriate dancer and singer) became the sixth woman to receive the honor of being inducted into the Panthéon.

When you step inside the Neoclassical sanctuary, you will be awed by the spacious domed interior, the floor-to-ceiling paintings that depict scenes of Christian saints, and the enormous sculpture that celebrates French Revolution deputies ( La Convention Nationale ).

Beneath the monumental rotunda is an unusual centerpiece: a science experiment rather than a work of art. Foucault's pendulum , created by French physicist Léon Foucault, was installed in 1851 to demonstrate his theory that the Earth rotates. The brass pendulum hangs from the dome on a steel wire and constantly oscillates in a circular trajectory.

To find the famous citizen's monuments and tombs, you will need a map (available on-site). The underground crypt is arranged in a geometric fashion, but it is easy to get lost.

Entrance to the Panthéon requires an admission fee, unless you have a Paris Museum Pass and except for the first Sunday of every month from November through March.

From April through September (for an additional entrance fee), you may ascend to the Panthéon's dome, where a colonnaded balcony provides a sensational view of the city's landmarks. You can see the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica in the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre.

Address: Panthéon, Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris (Métro: Luxembourg station)

In the charming Marais district, the Place des Vosges is Paris' oldest public square. With its uniform red-brick architecture, this elegant square provided a model for other squares such as Place Vendôme and Place de la Concorde.

The Place des Vosges was constructed between 1605 and 1612 (called Place Royale at the time) for King Henri IV. The buildings originally housed aristocratic residences.

The Place Royale offered a splendid setting for festive occasions in the 17th century, such as tournaments, state receptions, and court weddings. It was also a favorite spot for duels, in spite of Cardinal Richelieu's ban on dueling. The celebrated courtesan of Louis XIII's reign lived at number 11, and the future Madame de Sévigné was born in 1626 at number 1 on the square.

Victor Hugo rented an apartment at number 6 on the Place Royale between 1832 and 1848. Today this apartment is a museum, the Maison de Victor Hugo (6 Place des Vosges) which is devoted to educating visitors about the life and work of Victor Hugo.

The Place des Vosges is at the heart of Le Marais, a medieval quarter with narrow cobblestone streets, grand Renaissance palaces, and hôtels particuliers (mansions) of the 16th and 17th centuries. Several of these stately old buildings have been converted into museums.

A fascinating glimpse of France's history awaits you at the Musée des Archives Nationales (Museum of the National Archives) in the 17th-century Hôtel de Soubise (60 Rue des Francs-Bourgeois). The museum presents historical exhibits including the Edict of Nantes, French Revolution objects, Marie-Antoinette's last testament, and a letter written to Napoleon.

The most important museum of the quarter is the Musée Carnavalet - Histoire de Paris. This recently renovated museum illustrates the history of Paris from antiquity through the French Revolution and the Belle Époque until the present day.

In the Hôtel Salé (a 17th-century aristocratic mansion), the Musée National Picasso-Paris (5 Rue de Thorigny) wows you with its incredibly extensive collection (over 5,000 pieces) of Picasso's artwork, including some of his most iconic masterpieces.

More than just an open-air museum filled with historic monuments, Le Marais has become a trendy quarter full of fashion boutiques, cute cafés, and unique shops. Spend some time wandering the Rue de Sévigné and its cross street, the Rue des Francs Bourgeois . This area brims with youthful energy and is a fun place to visit for a stroll or a coffee break.

Another interesting fact about Le Marais is that it has a significant Jewish community. The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme (71 Rue du Temple) presents the 2,000-year history of France's Jewish communities, along with educational programs about Jewish culture and exhibitions of artwork by Jewish artists such as Chagall and Modigliani.

Nearby, the Jardin Anne Frank offers the tranquility of a secluded garden. This quiet, leafy green space features benches, shady trees, and an orchard. One of the chestnut trees in the garden was grafted from a tree that Anne Frank could see from the window of the annex where she lived in Amsterdam.

For those in search of a refined Parisian experience, the Mariage Frères (30 Rue du Bourg-Tibourg) is the place to go. This tea salon serves its aromatic tea with savory and sweet delicacies in a French colonial-style dining room; its adjoining shop sells a wide selection of scented teas in distinctive tins.

Many tourists wait in line to try the authentic falafel at L'As du Fallafel (34 Rue des Rosiers), considered one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Paris. This area has several kosher restaurants and kosher bakeries.

Tip : Keep in mind that L'As du Fallafel and other Jewish-owned shops in the Marais are closed on Shabbat (Friday evening and Saturday during the daytime).

Address: Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris (Métro: Saint-Paul or Bastille station)

The Musée Rodin is a hidden gem in the posh 7th arrondissement. This peaceful haven of refinement occupies the Hôtel Biron , an 18th-century mansion where sculptor Auguste Rodin lived and worked for many years. The property includes a seven-acre Sculpture Garden that blooms with flowers throughout the year.

In 1908, Auguste Rodin began to rent several rooms on the ground floor of the Hôtel Biron to use as an atelier. Rodin later took over the entire Hôtel Biron, which became his place of residence for the rest of his life. In 1916, Rodin donated his artworks and collection of antiquities to the French state, and the museum was established soon thereafter.

The Musée Rodin displays a remarkable assortment of Rodin's sculptures, as well as the works of Camille Claudel. Rodin masterpieces presented in the Hôtel Biron include Danaïd , an expressive marble sculpture depicting a mythological character (created in 1890); The Age of Bronze (created in 1877); The Cathedral , a stone sculpture of two intertwined hands (created in 1908); and The Kiss , one of Rodin's most sensual works (created around 1882).

Several monumental Rodin sculptures preside over various corners of the Sculpture Garden. The Thinker , Rodin's most iconic work of art , sits on a pedestal overlooking the perfectly manicured formal garden. The expressive Monument to Balzac stands in a shady spot beneath leafy trees, while a bronze statue of Adam is sheltered behind dense shrubbery.

Adding to the romance of the garden are the park benches and the café-restaurant, L'Augustine , where you may relax on an outdoor terrace. The café-restaurant also has a casual indoor dining space. Here you can savor a classic French meal, complete with dessert supplied by the renowned Maison Lenôtre pâtisserie.

This graceful 17th-century square was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart , one of the leading architects of Le Grand Siècle (during the reign of Louis XIV). Originally, the square was called Place Louis le Grand and was intended to house royal establishments.

The charm of the Place Vendôme is that it has retained the consistency of the overall design, which combines regal ostentation with civic simplicity. Following careful restoration in the early '90s, it has been restored in all its splendor.

The square is known for its upscale jewelry boutiques including Boucheron, Chaumet, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier. Another luxury establishment here is the Ritz Hotel , which was frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein.

Coco Chanel made the Ritz Paris her home for 34 years; she decorated her suite in her signature style with velvet-upholstered sofas, lacquered furniture, and gilded mirrors. The Ritz Paris still has a suite named after Coco Chanel that exemplifies her vision of Parisian chic.

At the center of the Place Vendôme stands a landmark of historic importance, the Colonne de la Grande Armée (replacing a statue of Louis XIV that was removed in 1792). Built between 1806 and 1810, the 42-meter-high column is dedicated to Napoleon and his Grande Armée (army) who fought heroically and victoriously in the Battle of Austerlitz (in December 1805).

The column's facade is crafted from bronze plaques embossed with 108 spiraling bas-relief friezes (similar to Trajan's Column in Rome), which tell the story of the glorious events that took place during Napoleon's campaign of 1805.

Address: Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris (Métro: Tuileries or Opéra station)

In the charming Le Marais quarter, the Centre Pompidou is a cultural center devoted to modern art. The building itself features shocking modern architecture, sometimes described as an "inside out" design because the architectural details of staircases and elevators appear on the exterior.

The main attraction of the Centre Pompidou is the Musée National d'Art Moderne (National Museum of Modern Art), which displays iconic works of art chosen from an extensive collection of over 100,000 pieces. The collection focuses on contemporary art created from 1905 to the present.

The collection covers all the movements of modern art, beginning with the Post-Impressionist "Fauves" and "Les Nabis" movements (André Derain, Raoul Dufy, Henri Matisse, Pierre Bonnard, and Marc Chagall) and continuing with the famous movement of Cubism (Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Fernand Léger, and Robert Delaunay).

Each room highlights a specific time period or artistic movements such as Expressionism, Constructivism (Paul Klee and Piet Mondrian), Surrealism (Salvador Dalí, Max Ernst, René Magritte, and André Masson), Abstract Expressionism (Mark Rothko, Nicolas de Staël, Hans Hartung, and Serge Poliakoff), Informal Art (Jean Dubuffet), New Realism, and Pop Art (Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg).

Several masterpieces of the collection are not to be missed : Avec l'Arc Noir by Wassily Kandinsky, Manège de Cochons by Robert Delaunay, Portrait de la Journaliste Sylvia von Harden by Otto Dix, The Frame by Frida Kahlo, Les Mariés de la Tour Eiffel by Marc Chagall, La Blouse Roumaine by Henri Matisse, New York City by Piet Mondrian, and Les Loisirs-Hommage à Louis David by Fernand Léger.

The center has two bookstores, a casual café, and a boutique that sells gift items inspired by contemporary art.

For a special dining experience, head to the Centre Pompidou's restaurant on the museum's top floor. Restaurant Georges features floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular panoramic views of the Paris cityscape. Tables on the terrace look out directly onto the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and Montmartre.

Address: Centre Pompidou, Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris (Métro: Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, Châtelet or Rambuteau station)

Louis XIV founded the Hôtel Royal des Invalides in the late 17th century as a home for disabled soldiers. The building was constructed between 1671 and 1676 under the direction of the architect Libéral Bruant and centered on the Eglise Saint-Louis-des-Invalides, which was later redesigned by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1706.

Today, the Hôtel National des Invalides still has a hospital (Institution Nationale des Invalides) that provides medical care for disabled veterans.

The monument also includes several tourist attractions: three museums and two historic churches. You could easily spend hours here, and luckily the site has excellent amenities: a café-restaurant, the Angelina tearoom (famous for its hot chocolate and pastries) in a tree-shaded courtyard, and a bookstore/gift shop.

Founded in 1794, the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum) presents a large collection of military equipment and uniforms, weapons, prints, and armor from various historical periods. The museum covers the military history of France from the 13th century (the Crusades) to the 17th century. There are also paintings of Napoleon and well-known generals, as well as maps that depict the French campaigns.

The Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération honors the soldiers who fought for the liberation of France during the Second World War, from 1940 to 1945. This museum also educates visitors about the deportation of Jews from France, the Resistance, and life in France during the war.

The military strategy of the 17th century comes to life at the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (Museum of Relief Maps). The museum displays 97 detailed (1 to 600 scale) relief maps of France's fortified towns (citadels) and fortresses that date from 1668 to 1871. Louis XIV's Minister of War (and later ministers) used the maps for military planning purposes.

A gold-domed Neoclassical church, the Eglise du Dôme des Invalides was built in 1677 as a royal chapel for Louis XIV but is most famous for being the site of Napoleon's Tomb , installed here in 1861 by the orders of King Louis-Philippe. The imperial tomb stands beneath a magnificent cupola, which was painted by Charles de la Fosse.

Designed for veterans to worship, the Cathédrale Saint-Louis des Invalides (constructed around 1676) connects with the Eglise du Dôme des Invalides. This chapel was built in keeping with the etiquette of the 17th century and has a separate entrance from the Eglise du Dôme. The Eglise Saint-Louis des Invalides still serves as the cathedral for the French army.

Address: Hôtel National des Invalides, Esplanade des Invalides, 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris

Just steps away from the Louvre Museum, you will find a welcome retreat amid the bustle of Paris' 1st arrondissement. Visiting this secluded spot feels like a secret getaway, even though it's right in the center of the city.

The Palais-Royal was created as a residence for Cardinal Richelieu in 1633, during the reign of Louis XIII. Richelieu later bequeathed the palace to the royal family, and it became the childhood home of Louis XIV.

Exemplifying classical French architecture, the Domaine National du Palais-Royal is made up of 60 pavilions surrounding a courtyard and a garden, the Jardin du Palais-Royal . This peaceful enclosed space has the feeling of being its own little village within the city.

After wandering the busy streets of Paris, you will be delighted by the lush tree-shaded grounds. You might be surprised to see that the courtyard features a contemporary sculpture installation, a striking contrast to the historic architecture.

The buildings are connected by a colonnaded pathway and arcaded galleries (verandas) filled with high-end boutiques . There are fancy cafés with pleasant outdoor terraces and two gastronomic restaurants: the haute-cuisine Palais Royal Restaurant (two Michelin stars); and Le Grand Véfour in an 18th-century dining room featuring ornate " art décoratif " design motifs.

The Palais-Royal area has two theaters: the Théâtre du Palais-Royal (38 Rue de Montpensier), which dates back to 1783 and continues to present theater performances in French; and La Comédie-Française (1 Place Colette), a theater known as the " La Maison de Molière " because it has staged so many of the famous playwright's works. The Comédie-Française was inaugurated in 1790 and is still in use during its theater season.

A lovely place for a stroll, the Domaine National du Palais-Royal is open every day, free of charge. The Centre des Monuments Nationaux offers guided group tours.

Address: Domaine National du Palais-Royal, 8 Rue Montpensier, 75001 Paris (Métro: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre or Pyramides station)

Now, only the name of this square is a reminder that the notorious state prison known as the Bastille, the much-hated symbol of absolutist power, once stood here. After the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, the prison was completely demolished.

In the center of Place de la Bastille is the 51-meter-high Colonne de Juillet , topped by a graceful gilded figure of Liberty ( Génie de la Liberté ). The monument commemorates the July Revolution of 1830, which overthrew King Charles X and brought Louis-Philippe d'Orléans to power.

Four Gallic cocks and a lion relief on the base of the column symbolize the free people of France. A spiral staircase of 283 steps inside the column leads to a viewing platform.

On the site of the Bastille prison is the new Opera House, the Opéra Bastille , inaugurated by President Mitterrand on July 13, 1989. This immense modern theater has seating for 2,745 people. Both the view of the stage from the auditorium and the acoustics are superb.

The Opéra Bastille presents a calendar of events that includes opera and ballet performances by the Opéra National de Paris and the Corps de Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris.

For a memorable evening in Paris, attend one of the performances at the Opéra Bastille and then dine in the Bastille area. This trendy neighborhood is brimming with quirky boutiques, hip clothing shops, stylish restaurants, and happening cafés.

Address: Place de la Bastille, 75012 Paris (Métro: Bastille)

The Place du Châtelet stands at the very center of Paris in the 1st arrondissement, overlooking the Seine River. The Pont au Change (bridge) provides access from the Île de la Cité to the Place du Châtelet.

Tip : It's just a short walk from Sainte-Chapelle and La Conciergerie on the Île-de-la-Cité to the Place du Châtelet, so it would make sense to visit these tourist attractions at the same time.

Two theaters grace the Place du Châtelet. The opulent Second Empire Théâtre du Châtelet (1 Place du Châtelet) presents a wide variety of music concerts, as well as dance and theater performances. A listed Monument Historique where Sarah Bernhardt once directed shows, the Théâtre de la Ville (2 Place du Châtelet) stages a diverse program of dance, music, and theater performances.

The area around Place du Châtelet is also worth exploring. Continue towards the Rue de Rivoli, past the Boulevard de Sébastopol, and wander through the small park to find the Tour Saint-Jacques . The 16th-century Flamboyant Gothic clock tower is all that remains of the Eglise Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie (the patron saint of butchers), the town's old parish church.

The Saint-Jacques Tower is also famous as the place where Blaise Pascal conducted one of his barometric experiments, which showed the effect of altitude on the height of a column of mercury.

Never mind the inviting name, this imposing medieval fortress was an infamous place of detention and a courthouse (from 1793 to 1795) during the French Revolution. Here, prisoners including Marie-Antoinette and Robespierre were kept in dank cells while awaiting their fate.

The Conciergerie is a remnant of the Palais de la Cité , the royal residence of France's kings in the 13th and 14th centuries until the royal residence was moved to the Louvre. During the Restoration (return of the Bourbon monarchs to the throne), the Conciergerie was no longer used as a prison and Marie-Antoinette's cell was converted into a commemorative chapel.

Today, the Conciergerie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public as a museum. It's possible to purchase a combined entry ticket for the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle. Admission to the Conciergerie is included with a Paris Museum Pass.

During your visit, you will have a chance to walk through the Prisoners' Corridor which includes a replica of French Revolution-era prison cells. An evocative exhibit, the Salle des Noms lists the names of more than 4,000 people who were put on trial by the Revolutionary Tribunal and includes their biographies.

Of course, you must visit the expiatory chapel of Marie-Antoinette (the commemorative chapel). Look for the motif of tears painted on the walls.

Other highlights of the visit include the Salle des Gardes which exhibits artifacts from the bloody Reign of Terror, including a guillotine blade, prison regulations, and a copy of Marie-Antoinette's last letter.

The Salle des Gens d'Armes is a 14th-century vaulted Gothic hall of awesome proportions. In this forbidding room, the condemned prisoners were handed over to the executioner.

For an exceptional view of the building's Neo-Gothic facade, stand on the opposite side of the Seine River on the Quai de la Mégisserie. From this distance, with its three round towers and the Tour de l'Horloge (Clock Tower), the fortress resembles a fairy-tale castle rather than a penitentiary.

Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris (Métro: Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station)

Formerly royal hunting grounds, the Bois de Boulogne is now home to a surprising modern landmark. Opened in 2014, the Fondation Louis Vuitton was commissioned by Bernard Arnault, chairman of the Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy corporation.

Acclaimed American architect Frank Gehry designed the striking building, using 3,600 glass panels and more steel than the amount in the Eiffel Tower. The museum features 3,500 square meters of exhibition space with 11 different galleries illuminated by natural light.

In keeping with the museum's modern theme, the permanent collection focuses entirely on 20th-century and 21st-century art organized into four different categories: Expressionism, Contemplative Art, Pop Art, and Music & Sound.

The Fondation Louis Vuitton offers a year-round calendar of events and temporary exhibits. Cultural events and music performances are presented in a 1,000-seat auditorium.

Not to be missed are the four outdoor terraces on the rooftop, which afford sweeping views of the Bois de Boulogne, La Défense district, and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. You may also shop at the bookstore and enjoy a snack or meal at Le Frank Restaurant .

A tourist attraction in itself, the 850-hectare Bois de Boulogne has walking paths, gardens, bicycle rentals, picnic areas, and a lake for boating. Three upscale restaurants, including La Grande Cascade , the Auberge du Bonheur , and the three Michelin-starred restaurant Le Pré Catelan , offer traditional French fine dining. At the park's hippodrome used for horse races, La Brasserie Paris Longchamp serves casual sit-down meals.

Within the Bois de Boulogne is the Parc de Bagatelle with picnic tables, a snack bar, and a rose garden. The 18th-century Château de Bagatelle is open on Sundays and for temporary exhibitions. The Orangery of the Parc de Bagatelle hosts a Chopin Festival every year from mid-June until mid-July.

Address: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, Bois de Boulogne, 75116 Paris (Métro: Pont de Neuilly or Avenue Foch)

Covering 55 hectares, the Parc de La Villette is the largest landscaped green space in Paris. The park is brimming with attractions, including children's playgrounds and the Cité de la Music .

The park is also home to 400-seat La Géode IMAX theater; the Zénith Paris - La Villette concert hall; the Philharmonie de Paris performance venue; and Le Trabendo , which stages rock, rap, and hip-hop music concerts.

During summertime, Parisians (and a few tourists) enjoy attending cultural events at the Parc de La Villette. For several days at the end of May, the Villette Sonique festival draws huge crowds to outdoor music concerts. Other festivals include Jazz à La Villette held from late August through early September and an outdoor film festival ( Cinéma en Plein Air ), which takes place in the park from mid-July to mid-August.

The park features a variety of themed gardens with walking paths, footbridges, and bright red architectural "follies" designed by Bernard Tschumi. The area around the Canal de l'Ourcq is embellished with ponds and fountains.

Address: 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris (Métro: Porte de la Villette)

Planning to visit Paris during summertime? Be sure to pack your swimsuit! Even though the city is far from the sea, you can still find "beaches" for sunbathing.

From early July through late August, the Seine River becomes a beach destination. The riverbanks along the Quai de Seine and Quai de Loire are transformed into little resorts, complete with lounge chairs, sun umbrellas, and palm trees. Recreational opportunities include table football, tai chi, and petanque.

Other summertime recreational opportunities (in July and August) include swimming at the Bassin de La Villette , which has three swimming pools with lifeguards, and sports activities at the Jardins du Trocadéro .

Outside of central Paris, the Père Lachaise Cemetery in the 20th arrondissement is the city's most famous and most visited cemetery. This 44-hectare space is the final resting place of many famous men and women, including Honoré de Balzac, Frédéric Chopin, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.

Some of the tombs and graves of the most admired personalities attract a cult following, with flowers and tributes left by visitors on a daily basis.

Address: Cimetière du Père Lachaise, 21 Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris (Métro: Père Lachaise or Philippe Auguste station)

Locals escape to this peaceful oasis when they need a break from urban life. Among Parisians, this park is a favorite place to go for picnics and basking in the sunshine on warm days.

The 25-hectare park has the feeling of an untamed pastoral landscape, in contrast to the typical Parisian formal French gardens, with their orderly rows of flowerbeds and pollarded trees.

This romantic English-style garden features caves, waterfalls, and an artificial lake. Large shady trees and spacious grassy areas invite visitors to pull out a blanket and relax. Some areas of the park offer panoramic city views.

The convivial Rosa Bonheur café serves Mediterranean cuisine on an outdoor terrace. Rosa Bonheur is also known for its musical entertainment and evening dances.

For a gourmet lunch or brunch, Le Pavillon du Lac delights you with its lake views and garden patio. Le Pavillon du Lac is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday and for brunch on Sundays.

Address: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris

The Grande Arche de la Défense is found in a business district at the end of Avenue Charles-de-Gaulle. This area just outside the city limits of Paris is named La Défense, which recalls the bitter resistance by French forces in this area during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.

Designed by Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, the Grande Arche makes a striking impression. This huge 110-meter-high rectangular triumphal arch is faced with glass and granite.

The monument was inaugurated in 1989 on the bicentenary of the French Revolution, and the contemporary structure symbolizes France's national value of fraternity. The arch was originally called " La Grande Arche de la Fraternité ".

Address: La Grande Arche, 1 Parvis de la Défense, 92040 Paris (Métro: La Défense)

Deciding where to stay in Paris depends on your taste in hotels and travel preferences.

An abundance of quaint small hotels are scattered throughout the 5th, 6th, and 7th arrondissements, which is also known as the Rive Gauche (Left Bank). Tourists appreciate this area for its central location, excellent restaurants, and lively sidewalk cafés.

The Marais quarter (4th arrondissement) on the Right Bank rivals the Left Bank for old-world charm and trendy ambiance. This neighborhood is filled with magnificent historic palaces and mansions, while enticing boutiques, cozy restaurants, cafés, and tea salons line the quarter's cobblestone streets.

Many luxury hotels are found on the boulevards near the Louvre and the Champs-Élysées, in an area of the 8th arrondissement known as the Triangle d'Or (Golden Triangle) because of its designer fashion boutiques and upscale gourmet restaurants.

Montmartre is farther from most tourist attractions but has a special atmosphere thanks to its bohemian heritage, excellent art museums, and atmospheric pedestrian alleyways. Some of the hotels in this hilltop neighborhood offer sweeping city views.

Here are some highly-rated hotels in these areas of Paris:

Luxury Hotels:

• In the fashionable 8th arrondissement near the Jardins des Champs-Élysées is the five-star Le Bristol Paris . This legendary hotel epitomizes Parisian elegance with sumptuous guest rooms featuring Louis XV or Louis XVI furnishings and tailor-made bed linens. Guests enjoy the courtyard garden, spa, rooftop swimming pool, tea time at Café Antonia, and fine dining at the hotel's Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant or Michelin-starred brasserie.
• La Réserve Paris - Hotel and Spa is another ultra-luxurious accommodation in the 8th arrondissement near the Champs-Élysées. The five-star hotel occupies a palatial 19th-century mansion decorated in a classical style, yet has the intimate ambiance of a private home. Guests appreciate the top-notch amenities: spa, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and two gourmet restaurants including a dining room with two Michelin stars.
• Art Deco interiors create an inviting feel at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in the 8th arrondissement. This opulent five-star hotel occupies a landmark building that dates to 1928 and has been beautifully maintained. Guests are pampered by the hotel's amenities: an upscale spa, swimming pool, and three fine-dining options including a vegetarian restaurant. The hotel's gastronomic restaurant, Le Cinq, boasts three Michelin stars.
• The Hôtel Plaza Athénée graces the tree-lined Avenue Montaigne, a prestigious boulevard lined with haute couture boutiques. Housed in a stately Haussmann-style building near the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, this five-star hotel features plush guest rooms with Art Deco furnishings. Amenities include the Dior Spa, and three dining options, including a garden courtyard restaurant and La Galerie, a salon that serves afternoon tea.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the Latin Quarter steps away from the Panthéon, the impeccably maintained Hôtel Résidence Henri IV exudes old-fashioned Parisian charm with its traditional interior decor and balconies overlooking the street. The spacious guest rooms have flat-screen televisions and updated bathrooms; the apartments have kitchenettes. This four-star hotel has a hammam and offers spa treatments. The breakfast (available for an additional charge) includes artisanal and organic products.
• The Relais Christine has a quiet and cozy ambiance, which makes it feel like a family home. This five-star hotel in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood is surrounded by cafés, bistros, and restaurants. The tastefully adorned guest rooms feature garden, courtyard, or street views and Nespresso coffee machines. Amenities include an upscale spa, fitness center, breakfast for an additional charge, and room service.
• Near the legendary Boulevard Saint-Germain cafés and a short walk to the Jardin du Luxembourg, the boutique three-star Hôtel Left Bank Saint Germain des Prés occupies an 18th-century building on an ancient street where Molière had a residence. The hotel's suite has a living room with windows that look out onto Notre-Dame Cathedral. A continental breakfast with croissants, café au lait, and fresh-squeezed orange juice is available.
• The charming Relais Médicis is tucked away on a quiet street near the Luxembourg Gardens. This four-star hotel is a welcome retreat from the busy streets of the Saint-Germain neighborhood. The guest rooms blend old-fashioned French country decor with modern amenities. Breakfast (available for an additional charge) includes yogurt, cheese, fresh-squeezed orange juice, coffee, tea, and croissants from a neighborhood bakery.
• Montmartre is considered Paris' most enchanting neighborhood, although it is a Métro ride to the main tourist attractions. A few steps away from the Métro station in the heart of the quarter's narrow, winding streets is Hôtel Le Relais Montmartre . This four-star hotel has quaint guest rooms with vintage-inspired decor. The hotel offers a breakfast buffet (generous for the price) that includes croissants, yogurt, charcuterie, cheese, and fruit.

Budget Hotels:

• The Legend Hotel by Elegancia is conveniently located in the Montparnasse district of the 6th arrondissement (Rive Gauche) and about a 10-minute walk to the Luxembourg Gardens. This cozy three-star boutique hotel has chic contemporary-style rooms. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, buffet or continental breakfast (for an additional charge), and concierge services.
• In the Latin Quarter (Rive Gauche) near the Panthéon, the family-run Hôtel Diana has stylish modern rooms with renovated bathrooms and courtyard or city views. Considering the central location and 24-hour front reception desk, this hotel provides excellent value for the price. A continental-style breakfast buffet is available for a small charge.

Paris Sightseeing Overview:

• For first-time visitors, the Paris Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a good choice. You can decide which monuments you would like to see, such as the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, and the Musée d'Orsay. The tour provides commentary while you're on the bus and includes an entrance ticket to the Arc de Triomphe as well as a short Seine River Cruise.

Hop-on Hop-off Seine River Tour:

• The Hop-on Hop-off Seine River Tour covers the city's highlights by cruising down the Seine River. This self-guided tour allows you to stop at eight different places on the Seine River over a one-day or two-day period. You will have a chance to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Musee d'Orsay, the legendary Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, and the Hôtel National des Invalides.

Visit the Normandy Battlefields:

• History buffs will want to see the famous World War II battlefields, about a three-hour drive from Paris. One recommended day trip is the Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour . Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, tourists will see the Omaha and Juno Beaches, and the American Cemetery. The tour also includes a visit to the Arromanches harbor.

Must-See Sights Outside of Paris :

• Another popular outing from Paris is the Versailles and Giverny Day Trip . This full-day excursion explores the vibrant gardens of Giverny, which Monet depicted in many paintings, and the Château de Versailles, Louis XIV's extravagant palace. The tour includes a gourmet lunch at the Moulin de Fourges riverside restaurant, which is housed in an 18th-century mill inspired by Marie-Antoinette's hamlet at Versailles.

Many seasoned travelers say the best months to visit Paris are in the spring (April, May, June), the summer (especially June and the first half of July), and early autumn (September and October) . As a general rule, this is also the best time to visit France.

April is in the off-season , and hotel prices are reduced. The drawback is that the weather is capricious and can be quite chilly or rainy . Average low temperatures are mid-40 degrees Fahrenheit. With some luck, the weather could be refreshingly crisp and sunny. Average highs are low-60 degrees. On the upside, April offers the chance to experience the magic of early spring. Trees begin to bud their first leaves in the parks and lining the avenues. Daffodils and tulips bloom in the gardens.

In May , the weather is still fickle , with a mix of sunny days and chilly or rainy days. The temperature averages range from high 60 degrees to low 50 degrees Fahrenheit. By early May, trees, burgeoning vegetation, and colorful flowers enliven the leafy grounds of the Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Champs-Élysées, Jardin des Plantes, Parc Monceau, Bois de Boulogne, and the Buttes-Chaumont. On warm days, café terraces come back to life.

June is a delightful time to visit Paris because of the balmy weather and long days . Daytime temperatures are comfortable, with high temperature averages in the low 70 degrees. Thanks to Paris' northern latitude, the sun sets at almost 10pm in June. It seems that the entire city is out and about to celebrate the beginning of summer. The sidewalk café scene bustles and there is a sense of joie de vivre in the air.

The first two weeks of July are the most exciting time to visit Paris, with Parisians' anticipation of vacation just around the corner. Plus, the weather starts to feel like summer. The entire month of July is a great time to visit because of warm days with average high temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

July and August are the hottest months of the year in Paris. August also has average high temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, travelers should keep in mind that many shops and restaurants close in August when Parisians leave for summer holidays after the Fête Nationale (Bastille Day) on July 14th.

September is a marvelous time to visit Paris because the weather is still pleasant , yet it is in the off-season , so hotels are more affordable, and tourist attractions are less crowded. Similar to the springtime, September promises a mix of weather, with some sunny days and some rain. The average high temperatures are low-70 degrees Fahrenheit and average low temperatures are mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another good time to visit is October which is in the off-season . October weather can be chilly. The daytime high-temperature averages start to dip into the 60s Fahrenheit and the average low temperature is 48 degrees.

Tips for What to Wear : For a Paris vacation in April, May, September, or October, travelers should pack layers and bring sweaters, a jacket, raincoat, boots, and an umbrella. In June and July, the weather is warm enough for summer dresses and short-sleeve shirts. Packing requirements during the late fall and winter months (November through March) include heavy coats, scarves, wool hats, gloves, warm socks, and boots.

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Easy Paris Day Trips: There are many wonderful places to visit within easy reach from Paris . Just outside the Paris metropolitan area is a tranquil rural landscape that is rich in cultural treasures: lovely little villages, historic castles, splendid churches, and interesting medieval towns. A must-see destination is the Château de Versailles , the 17th-century palace of Louis XIV (the "Sun King").

For those who prefer cities to the countryside, several worthwhile destinations are just a one- to two-hour train ride away: the elegant and cultured city of Lille (one hour by TGV train) with its distinct Flemish character, the delightful town of Amiens (about one hour and 30 minutes by train), and Lyon (two hours by TGV train) known as the gastronomic heart of France.

Adored by tourists for its perfectly preserved medieval ambiance, picturesque canals, and enticing chocolate shops, atmospheric Bruges (two hours 30 minutes by train) is simple to visit even though the train crosses the border into Belgium.

Historic Sites in Normandy: The scenic Normandy region wows visitors with its natural beauty and fascinating history. Along its dramatic coastline are the Landing Beaches of World War Two, and nearby are military cemeteries and memorial museums. One of the top attractions of France and Normandy's most visited site is Mont Saint-Michel , a UNESCO-listed medieval pilgrimage site with a sublime 12th-century abbey church. Tourists will also enjoy discovering the historic town of Rouen , with its marvelous cathedral, handsome half-timbered houses, and abundance of Gothic churches.

Gorgeous Castles and Pastoral Landscapes: The fairy-tale Loire Valley landscape is home to the most magnificent Renaissance châteaux in France. With a lush natural environment of woodlands and rivers, this enchanting region is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The naturally beautiful region of Brittany boasts a wild, rugged coastline, with many idyllic fishing villages and an unspoiled countryside with medieval castles. The Burgundy region is dotted with historic towns such as Dijon , quaint villages, ancient abbeys, and Romanesque churches.

More on France

Map of Paris - Interactive Map of Paris

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Paris. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Paris interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

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2-Day Paris Itinerary

If you are staying in Paris for a few days and want to see and visit the city's top tourist attractions and museums, read our itinerary, which includes detailed information on what to see and how to get to the places.

General Information

If you’re planning your visit to Paris, you might be wondering what travel documents you need to travel to France, what the country's currency is, and other frequently asked questions all answered here below:

• Paris by night Paris by night
• Versailles Versailles
• Giverny Giverny
• France France
• Day trips from Paris Day trips from Paris
• Fooding Fooding
• Cruises Cruises
• Find your order
• Our Sanitary Program
• +33 (0)1 44 55 60 00

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Paris Tourist Map: your downloadable PDF map

You are planning an upcoming visit to the City of Light and you need a tourist map that you can easily access on your smartphone, your tablet, even without an internet connection? PARISCityVision offers you a PDF Paris tourist map you can download completely free of charge. This map lists museums, monuments and must-see destinations and is a useful tool, whether you are spending a few hours or several days in France’s most beautiful city.

Click here to download the plan

More than a simple downloadable map of Paris

We are offering you much more than a basic downloadable Paris offline map. You will find all the information you need to make your visit to the capital city an unforgettable experience , gathered on one unique map.

Among all the must-see tourist destinations, locate the most beautiful and most popular Paris tourist attractions within a few seconds. On the same map, you can find Paris most emblematic places : enjoy one of the greatest views of the capital city from the Eiffel Tower and dive into the history of Notre Dame de Paris . Discover the famous Arc de Triomphe on the Place de l’Etoile. To experience the perfect french experience, enjoy a show at the Palais Garnier Opera House . Take your time while visiting the infinite galleries of the Louvre Museum . Last but not least, climb the stairs of Montmartre to visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica , a breathtaking place offering a wonderful panorama over the city.

The greatest museums of the city are also indicated: on your map, pinpoint the location of the Louvre or the Orsay museums on the banks of the Seine, find the Centre Pompidou in the heart of the Marais district, and locate the most beautiful cultural buildings of Paris.

Organize your visits of Paris tourist attractions

Here are some tips to schedule the visit of some of the main monuments of the city. The Eiffel Tower is probably one of the most visited places in the world. Each day, all year-long, thousands of visitors come to climb the 674 steps leading to the second stair of the Iron Lady. In order to try to avoid the crowd, we recommend you to go early , before 10:30 a.m. or on the contrary, at the end of the day , after 6:00 p.m. To discover the mysteries of the Louvre in a nice atmosphere, we advise you to schedule your visit out of the weekend. The Louvre is often crowded, but during the week , out of holidays, you might have the opportunity to enjoy a calmer atmosphere. to optimize your time, book your tickets online beforehand, so you don’t have to wait in line too much time. Last, some of Paris greatest places are free to visit , so don’t hesitate to look for hidden places and mysterious districts to truly dive into the Parisian atmosphere.

A tourist map which offers another view of Paris

Do you want to see a different side of Paris and visit hidden places, away from the major tourist sightseeing tours? Veritable gems await visitors who want to explore the authentic districts of the City of Light: covered passages around the Palais Royal , narrow streets and squares in the district of Montmartre. On our map, next to the most popular destinations, we spot other amazing tourist sites that will provide you with a unique travel experience. Our practical PDF map is always accessible. Are you looking for a Paris tourist map that you can print and slip into your pocket? Do you want to download a map to take with you and use, even when there is no internet connection? We will provide you with access to the best tourist attractions in Paris, free of charge , and all in one document! Gather all Paris tourist attractions on one map. Our Paris tourist map identifies the must-see destinations and tourist attractions : Museums

• Orsay Museum
• Centre Pompidou
• Grévin Museum
• Picasso Museum
• Rodin Museum
• Musée des Invalides
• Cité Des Sciences
• Eiffel Tower
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Sacré-Cœur
• Arc De Triomphe
• Garnier Opera House
• Moulin Rouge

Tourist areas

• Palais Royal
• Latin Quartier
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Other downloadable tourist offline maps

Plan your trip in advance and download our different Paris offline maps on your smartphone or tablet:

• Map of Paris monuments
• Map of Paris museums
• Map of Paris districts
• Map of Montmartre

PARISCityVision provides you with the best information in order to facilitate your stay in the capital city of France. With our Paris offline maps, take the entire capital in your pocket and choose the places you are most interested in to schedule your visits . On our plateforme, you will also find a wide range of priority tickets to visit the most beautiful places of Paris, different types of tours to discover the city at your own pace, and unique experiences to suit all of your desires. With PCV, make each stay a memorable experience.

Plan de Paris - Plan interactif de Paris

Informations sur le plan.

Sur notre plan de Paris vous pourrez voir la localisation des monuments, musées, places, églises et points d'intérêt de la ville. En cliquant sur chaque icône, vous pourrez voir de quel lieu il s'agit.

Pour vous aider à vous orienter une fois dans la ville, en imprimant le plan vous remarquerez que les numéros des icônes sur le plan coïncident avec les numéros de la liste des points d'intérêt. De cette manière, vous pourrez savoir quel lieu représente chaque icône.

Instructions d'utilisation pour le plan interactif (Paris)

Utiliser le plan est très simple:

• Voir les informations du plan : en cliquant sur les marqueurs de couleur.
• Se déplacer sur le plan : en faisant glisser la souris.
• Zoomer : En double-cliquant avec le bouton gauche de la souris sur le plan ou en utilisant la roulette de la souris du bas vers le haut.
• Dézoomer : En double-cliquant avec le bouton droit de la souris sur le plan ou en utilisant la roulette de la souris du haut vers le bas.

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Paris en deux jours

Si vous souhaitez connaître l'essentiel de Paris, notre itinéraire spécialement élaboré pour visiter Paris en deux jours vous sera sûrement très utile.

Informations

Si vous souhaitez planifier votre séjour à Paris, voici quelques informations qui devraient ôter tous les doutes qui pourraient surgir lors de votre voyage.

Paris Metro

Paris metro subway – maps, hours, tickets, passes & more.

Below you’ll get Paris subway maps, hours, info on tickets, day passes & Navigo week passes, zones and learn how to use the Paris Metro in this first of a series of articles.

Paris Metro entrance sign art nouveau

Paris Metro Maps

Here you can download three different Paris subway system maps to help you see all 16 Paris Metro lines and help you plan a route:

a basic Paris Metro map of lines with stations and interchanges (PDF – opens a new window)

a condensed small format Paris subway map

a Paris Metro map with city streets

Other Metro maps such as individual line maps can be downloaded directly from RATP.fr (in french).  Note that there are no Paris Metro Zones for the Metro system. The Paris Metro is a single zone (even if some lines reach into zone 3).  The zones visible on some older Paris Metro / RER maps are for RER trains which are subject to fare zones.

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Paris Metro Hours

Paris metro service disruptions.

• Some Paris Metro lines are running at reduced frequency during Paris Train strikes in March 2020. See the Paris train strike page for more information.

Download a Paris Metro timetable showing first and last Paris Metro trains . Paris Metro hours change very little year-to-year and the RATP has stopped producing this full schedule in 2013 so this timetable of Metro Paris times is still useful to find Paris Metro opening hours and closing time.  Times are approximate! This includes times of first train / last train of Paris RER A ( Disneyland ) and RER B ( airport ).

Route Planning

The RATP offers a route planner via their website which can use street addresses, station names or well known locations to create a travel itinerary for you, including necessary connections and total travel time. Route options under “Criteria” can be chosen for fewest connections, least amount of walking and quickest route (the default).

Tickets & Passes

The Paris tube has a wide variety of tickets available while I’ll describe in detail below: single ride tickets, books of 10 or 20, preloaded ticket cards, single day passes, multi-day passes, youth weekend passes, Monday to Sunday week passes, monthly passes and year passes.

Regarding fares for different zones: Paris Metro zones don’t exist! The entire Paris underground is one zone, unlike the Paris RER trains which have zones & different fares per zones traveled.  Even though a few Paris Metro stations are actually outside of Paris fare zone 1, a single Paris Metro ticket is still valid for travel from inside zone 1 and ending at a Metro station outside of Paris zone 1.

Paris Metro Prices

Paris Metro prices as of Jan. 4, 2024 is 2.15€ for a one-way ride lasting up to 2 hours. (Note: your last transfer must be made within 1 hour 30 minutes. No further transfers are allowed after this time and you must complete your travel by the 2 hour mark.) There are a variety of Paris Metro tickets to buy and several Paris Metro Pass options shown in detail below.

Single Use Tickets

Basic Paris Metro tickets are known as “Ticket t+”. These tickets are valid for a single continuous journey of any length throughout the Paris Metro system, including changes to other Metro lines and RER interurban trains within Zone 1 . These tickets are sold as single one-way fares or in books of 10. If you want a return ticket, you simply buy two Metro tickets. Paris Metro tickets have no expiry; You can use them at any time in the future.

Tickets can be purchased from ticket windows inside stations or through automated ticket vending machines accepting Euro coins and smart chip credit cards. The single ticket price as of Jan. 4, 2024 is 2.15€.

Books of ten, called a “carnet” [kar-nay], are sold at a discount for 17.35€ when put on Navigo Easy or Paris transport mobile phone app (1.96€ / 1.74€ each, a little under 20% off the regular fare). Children from ages 4 to 9 years old (inclusive) can use reduced fare tickets, which are available only in books of 10, for 9.80€ per book of ten. Children 3 and under ride for free. Keep in mind that non-smart chip credit cards will not work at either the automated ticket machines nor at ticket windows, thus Euro cash or coin would be required.

Read more about Paris Metro Tickets and transfers allowed.

Ticket Cards

In 2019 Paris introduced a ticket card called Navigo Easy which holds digital single-use Paris Metro tickets. Holding up to 30 Paris Metro tickets, a Navigo Easy ticket card can be reloaded and used over a period of ten years. Navigo Easy also holds Navigo Day Passes and tickets for Roissybus and Orlybus .

Read more about Paris Metro ticket cards on the Navigo Easy page.

Day tickets

Day tickets (unlimited rides until midnight) are available in two formats: the Navigo Day Pass and the Paris Visite ticket .

The Navigo Day Pass is put onto a Navigo Découverte smart card (or compatible mobile phone Paris transit app ) that allows tap entry to Paris Metro, RER, bus, and trams. The Paris Visite ticket is a paper-based ticket that is inserted into ticket readers aboard Paris buses, trams and at Paris Metro/RER station turnstiles and fare gates.

The basic difference between the two options:

The Navigo Day Pass by default has all 5-zones of coverage and must be scheduled for use either immediately or up to 6 days in the future and needs to be put onto a plastic smart card (5€ fee) or onto an iPhone / Android phone (no fee). Navigo Day Pass doesn’t cover the Orlyval train for Orly Airport (but does include the Orlybus bus and Tram 7 + Metro 7 and Metro 14 from Orly). See details on the Navigo Day pass .

The Paris Visite ticket includes the Orlyval Orly airport train, has some discounts to popular Paris tourist attractions and can be used immediately or anytime in the future without scheduling. But it costs more. See details on the Paris Visite pass .

Multi-Day Paris Metro Tickets

Multi-day tickets aimed at tourists and visitors are known as the Paris Visite , available in 3 zone and 5 zone versions, for 1, 2, 3 or 5 day lengths. For details on the Paris Visite, please see the Paris Visite pass page.

The Paris Visite is a multi-use paper ticket coupon (similar to a Paris Metro Ticket t+). Formerly (prior to 2014) the Paris Visite also came with a black folding card which required the printed name of the bearer and the ticket coupon requires the card number and date of use to be written on in pen, as to avoid ticket sharing between passengers. This is no longer in practice as of mid-2014. You will only receive the white paper Paris Visite ticket itself.

Paris Visite Pass 5-day 3-zone

Discounts to attractions in and around Paris are included with the Paris Visite card. (See the discounts on Paris Visite .) To take advantage of the discount at the attractions, simply present your Paris Visite ticket during its validity period (which you must mark on the ticket itself using a pen, along with your first & last name).

Buy Paris Visite Online – This is no longer available for delivery and must be picked up in person in Paris, making this option pointless. You can buy Paris Visite tickets online for home delivery through the Paris Visitor Bureau website, but I wouldn’t recommend it due to the delivery cost. For USA/Canada/Australia/Japan (anywhere overseas) the cost of delivery is 24€ through DHL Express. In United Kingdom, delivery of Paris Visite is 14,50€. There is one free “delivery” option for buying Paris Visite online – pickup your Paris Visite at the Paris Visitor Bureau. But, I can’t imagine why you’d purchase Paris Visite online to have it delivered to the Paris Visitor Bureau, in Paris, which would require a Metro ride in itself, a trip that would likely take 30+ minutes round-trip from your hotel. You could just purchase the Paris Visite at any Metro ticket machine or ticket window, anywhere in Paris, at CDG/Orly airports or at any of the major intercity train stations throughout Paris.

Week Pass – Navigo

Week long Paris transport passes, known as the “Navigo Week Pass”, are bought & put onto a plastic contactless smartcard known as a Navigo card or more precisely the Navigo Decouverte card . (Navigo Découverte card is for visitors while the regular Navigo card with a permanently printed photo & name of owner is for local residents).

The Navigo week pass can now also be bought/loaded/used from iPhones and Android phones .

Paris Navigo Decouverte card – 2019

A Navigo Week Pass is valid for travel strictly from Monday till Sunday, rather than any continuous 7 day period, which makes it less attractive for visitors arriving mid-week.  You can buy a Navigo Week Pass fare for use in the current week from ticket windows at most Paris Metro, RER and large train stations up until Thursday 11:59 PM. Starting from Friday, week passes for the following week are on sale. The Pass Navigo Découverte week pass is available for renewals from automated ticket vending machines, but not for initial sales as you need the physical plastic smart card first, which are not available from automated ticket machines. 4 different fare zones are available although nearly everyone will want all zones which covers central Paris out to zone 5 which includes CDG Airport & Disneyland.  The other three zones available (2-5, 3-5, 4-5) do not include central Paris . Navigo Week Pass prices are as follows (Tarifs Semaine = Weekly Price, Tarifs Mois = Monthly Price, updated as of Jan 4, 2024):

Zones 1-5 will cover travel to & from Airports Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY, by Orlybus, not Orlyval train), which are in zones 5 and 4 respectively and Paris-Versailles trains (zone 4).

The prices above do not include the 5€ fee for the plastic card itself, non-refundable, unlike the London Oyster card.

To purchase the pass Navigo Découverte you will be required to present and attach a face photo measuring 3cm tall x 2.5cm wide to the paper nominative card that comes in addition to the plastic smart-card. The paper identification part of Navigo Decouverte has a peel-off sticky section for holding your headshot photo.

Navigo Week Pass on Navigo Découverte card

Home printing of this photo is OK and colour is recommended. (There’s no official statement that a black & white photo for Navigo is not accepted but I have been asked to use a color photo when presenting a black & white photo.) You will be required to print your first name & last name on this card as well. The contactless smart card and the paper card must be carried together to be valid for travel.

There is some confusion between the Carte Orange and Pass Navigo in terms of week passes. Carte Orange was previously a physical coupon like ticket (much like the now discontinued Ticket Mobilis) and paper nominative photo card that is now no longer in use. This coupon and paper card has been replaced by the new contactless smart cards known as the Navigo Pass and Navigo Découverte Pass (for non-residents of France). The Paris regional transit authority has phased out the name “Carte Orange” as the name of the weekly or monthly “subscriptions” that you must purchase and “add” to your Pass Navigo or Navigo Découverte Pass .

Read more about the Navigo Decouverte card

Riding the Paris Metro

Paris airports.

Paris airports are accessible via the RER train system, rather than the Paris Metro. See instructions on the RER B from CDG to Paris , Orly to Paris and Paris Beauvais Airport Train for more information.

Paris Stations & Metro Tickets

Most of Paris’ 300 Metro stations are located underground with a handful above ground. Stations are marked with various styles of signs as shown below.

Paris Metro Sign at Bercy – style circa 2010

Paris Metro entrance – art nouveau style – at Place d’Italie

Some Metro stations are joined with large train stations (“gare”) serving other types rail transport such as intercity surface trains and RER regional express trains which travel both above and below ground. Some notable large stations within Paris serving all three types of train transport include: Gare St. Lazare, Gare du Nord , Gare de l’Est, Gare de Lyon , Gare d’Austerlitz and Gare Montparnasse . Most stations and Paris Metro lines are not handicap accessible save for a few exceptions . Stations have multiple entrances/exits, up to ten for the largest underground station, Chatelet Les Halles.

Street maps are posted throughout central Paris providing information on the local district (“arrondissement”). These maps can be useful in locating nearby Metro stations.

How to buy Paris Metro Tickets

This next section shows how to buy tickets for Paris Metro on your mobile phone, at ticket machines , at staffed ticket windows and how to buy Paris Metro tickets online (with a delivery fee).

Buy on Mobile Phone

You can now buy Paris Metro tickets on iPhone from Apple Wallet or from Android/iPhone Paris Transport apps . Please see the linked articles for details.

Buying Paris Metro Tickets at Ticket Machines

Within a Paris Metro station, Paris Metro tickets (but not all pass cards) can always be purchased from automated vending Metro ticket machines .  You can buy Paris Metro cards / day / week passes from any Metro station ticket window, but only a few multiday Paris Metro cards can be bought through Paris Metro ticket machines such as the Paris Visite card .

Metro Ticket Machine Payment Methods

Paris Metro ticket machines all accept Euro coins (for purchases up to 30€) and European debit cards (with smart chip) as payment.  Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards are accepted for buying tickets at most Paris Metro ticket machines and ticket windows.  American Express / Amex is not accepted for Paris train tickets at vending machines nor ticket windows. Some combined Metro/RER/Transilien ticket machines (one example pictured below) at major train stations ( Gare du Nord , Gare de Lyon , etc.) and airports such as CDG Airport train station or Orly Airport , accept Euro coins, Visa & Mastercard credit/debit cards, French and foreign chip debit cards, but Paris Metro station ticket machines inside of central Paris Metro stations usually do not accept cash notes for payment.

Below is a photo of several combined Paris Metro / RER / Transilien ticket machines found at RER train stations, large main-line ( Grandes Lignes ) train stations like Gare du Nord , and any combined Metro/RER station.

Paris Metro, RER, Bus, Tram Ticket Vending machines

Every Paris Metro/RER ticket vending machine accepts Visa/Mastercard credit cards (not AMEX), Carte Bleu (French debit card), foreign chip-enabled debit cards, and Euro coins (2€, 1€, 0.50, 0.25, 0.10, 0.05 Euro coin denominations). The newest machines accept Visa Mastercard tap to pay option as well, visible as the yellow pad. The blue square pad to the right of the PIN pad is a Navigo reader, used for recharging Navigo cards .

Paris Metro RER Ticket vending payment methods and screen

Paris Metro ticket machine Navigo card reader recharge pads are often circular and purple like in the below photo:

Navigo card reader recharge pad on Paris Metro ticket vending machine

See Paris Metro ticket machines for step-by-step details on buying Paris Metro tickets from automated ticket vending machines inside central Paris or combined Metro/RER/Transilien ticket machines for buying Paris transportation tickets/passes from machines found at major Paris train stations and Paris airports.

If you need to use a credit card to buy Paris Metro tickets or Paris Metro pass card  and the automated ticket machine doesn’t show a Visa or Mastercard symbol, then visit a ticket window to buy Metro tickets & Metro pass cards where you’ll be able to use a credit card for the purchase.

Buying Paris Metro Tickets at Ticket Windows

You can also buy Paris Metro tickets from personnel staffed ticket windows at any Paris Metro station.  Keep in mind that Paris Metro stations often have several entrances and a manned ticket office is usually only open at one of those entrances at any given time.  The other Metro station entrances will have ticket machines and fare gates / turnstiles for pass card & ticket holders to enter without human staff nearby to help.

There are several different Paris transit passes / unlimited ride tickets and single-use tickets for Paris Metro, bus, tram or Paris RER and specific tickets for CDG airport and Orly airports by RER or Roissybus / Orlybus as shown on the below fares sheet:

Paris Metro tickets, passes (Navigo / Paris Visite) and other fares posted at Paris Metro ticket window

The basic Paris Metro ticket is the Ticket t+ .  When buying single Metro tickets you would ask: “Un ticket Metro” [ungh-teekay-mehtro].  This ticket is good for a single ride anywhere on the Paris Metro system, including transfers between Metro lines without zone limitations (or RER lines within Paris Zone 1 ), within 2 hours of validating the Paris Metro ticket using a turnstile or fare-gate.  Paris Metro tickets can be bought one day and used at any time in the future as they are validated / activated upon use (in a turnstile or fare-gate), not upon purchase.  See Paris Metro ticket t+ for detailed information on the basic Paris Metro ticket, costs, how to use it, etc.

Buy Paris Metro Tickets Online

You cannot buy single/individual Paris Metro tickets online. You can only purchase a Navigo Easy card pre-loaded with 10 tickets from a 3rd party reseller that must be picked up in-person by you inside Central Paris, not at either Paris airport and it cannot be mailed/couriered/delivered anywhere. To buy a pack of 10 Paris Metro tickets online for in-person pickup ( inside central Paris ), you can visit the ParisJeTaime.com website .

Please see the note about Can I buy Navigo Easy Online for more information about buying online. (Note: I don’t recommend you do this. Consider using the official Paris transportation mobile phone app for purchasing Paris transport tickets abroad.)

How to Use Paris Metro Tickets & Passes

After buying your Paris Metro ticket, we’ll now show you how to use your ticket or Navigo pass card to get past fare gates, then get to train platforms, opening train car doors, etiquette on boarding, exiting, seating and more, to help you ride the Metro like a Parisien.

This section explains:

• where to go after buying Metro tickets or passes from ticket windows or vending machines
• how to use your Metro fare to pass through gates & turnstiles
• how to get to the right Paris Metro train platform

Ticket Gates

Access to Paris Metro train platforms is controlled via turnstiles or gate type barriers.  After buying Paris Metro tickets from ticket windows or ticket machines make your way to the closest fare gates or turnstiles.  Below is a photo of typical Paris Metro fare gates which separates public spaces from areas reserved for Metro ticket & Navigo pass card holders.

Recognize Different Fare Gates

Things to note about Paris Metro turnstiles & fare gates pictured above:

• All  green/green arrow Paris Metro turnstiles / fare gates accept Navigo pass cards
• Some turnstiles are reserved for exiting the fare-paid area (red with X’s)
• Most Paris Metro fare gates accept both paper tickets & multi-use passes (Navigo, Navigo Easy, mobile phone)
• A few fare gates (left most green one) will only accept Navigo pass cards & mobile phones / smart-watches and no paper coupon-style tickets of any sort.

The key point: choose an appropriate fare gate depending on the Paris Metro ticket or card you are holding.

Navigo-Only Fare Gates

You don’t want to walk up to a Navigo-card-only “reserved” gate holding a paper ticket, which won’t be accepted, while a horde of hurried Parisians wait impatiently behind you to pass through and you are forced to apologize & weave your way back out past them to a line up for a different gate that will accept paper tickets.

Navigo reserved gates  often have a sticker on the front indicating that no paper coupon Metro tickets can be used. If you’re using Paris Metro Ticket t+ … don’t use these turnstiles / fare gates.  There are no slots for inserting paper coupon tickets and only have Navigo pass card readers.

Open/Entry Gates vs. Closed/Exit Gates

Also, don’t walk up to red color fare gates which are open by default, expecting to get past without using your Metro ticket or Navigo card.  These red exit gates will slam shut as you approach, preventing you from passing through and you cannot use your pass or ticket to open them.  They are reserved for exiting passengers only.

Most Paris Metro fare gates will have a ticket slot on the front, some with a green arrow pointing towards it, indicating this fare gate is open and ready to accept magnetic stripe coupon-style tickets such as Paris Metro Ticket t+ , Paris Visite, RER tickets, etc.  Underneath the green arrow can be a sticker reading: NaviGO, showing that this turnstile also accepts Navigo pass cards, which are used by holding the Navigo card on the top of the ticket slot device, where a large purple circular reading pad is located (see image further below).

Inserting Tickets into Gates

To operate a Paris Metro fare gate barrier or turnstile such as the ones pictured above with a Paris Metro ticket , insert the ticket magnetic stripe side down, into the barrier’s ticket slot.  The ticket slot should be on your righthand side while inserting the ticket.  If you find yourself inserting a ticket on your left, you’re opening the next gate over to your left, not the one you’re currently standing in.

Upon inserting your Paris Metro ticket, it will be read, stamped (with a validation code) and then ejected at the top of the machine where you need to retrieve your ticket to open the gate / unlock the turnstile.

Collect Your Ticket to Pass

If the ticket is accepted, a short high pitched buzzing sound will be emitted, sometimes along with a message displayed on the turnstile requesting you take your ticket back (“Reprenez votre ticket”). Remove the ticket and walk through the turnstile or approach near the gate barrier and wait for it to open. Some gates are slow to open, especially double door gates which slide/retract outwards to let you pass. If your ticket appears to have been accepted, yet the gate has not swung open, be sure you have retaken your ticket from the top of the machine and that you’re standing near enough to the gates in order to trip the visual sensor.  Be patient and don’t panic. The gate should swing open within 5 seconds maximum. A ticket that is not accepted will cause the turnstile to emit a longer, lower pitched (unpleasant) buzzing noise, sometimes with a message in red indicating your ticket was not valid. Show your ticket to an employee at a ticket window or information booth for help in this case, saying your ticket does not work. They will usually open a wheelchair accessible gate for you to pass through.

Using Barrier Turnstiles

Pictured below is a turnstile barrier gate inside a Paris Metro station with a locking barricade behind the rotating arms of the turnstile to prevent people jumping over the bars.  Notice there is no green arrow near the ticket slot (it’s located further below on the front face) nor is there a Navigo sticker on the front (although you will see a large purple Navigo card reader area on top of the machine).  After the turnstile has been unlocked/opened with your ticket inserted into the front slot, you will need to retrieve your validated ticket from the top of the barrier machine.  Your validated ticket will be located past the purple card reader, where there is a rectangular depression in the metal and a dark area, which has the ticket exit slot and a little mechanical rotating sign that will read: “Reprenez votre ticket” / “Retrieve your ticket”.  Collect your validated ticket and walk through the barrier.  Be sure to keep your Metro ticket with you until you complete your journey and exit your final destination Metro station.  If you are intercepted by a ticket controller without your validated ticket or Navigo pass, you will be fined on the spot for 35€ for having a valid, but non-validated ticket (i.e. a ticket that wasn’t put through a ticket reading machine on the turnstile or fare gate) or 50€ for not producing any valid ticket at all.

Using Navigo Passes

See the Paris Navigo pass article for details on using a Navigo on turnstiles & fare gates.

Find Your Metro Platform

Many Metro stations serve multiple lines through several different train platforms within a single station. To find your way to the correct platform in the correct direction requires that you to keep a mindful eye on signs posted throughout the pedestrian tunnels.

Paris Metro Platform platform direction & stations

Metro Destination & Station Signs

At each subterranean intersection you will see Metro line numbers and possibly station names which are used to denote direction of travel. Direction of travel is always denoted by the terminus station, the last station or stop on the line, rather than magnetic pole directions such as north, south, east, west. To understand whether the line is going in the direction you wish to travel, you should refer a Paris Metro map , which are posted near station entrances and on all train platforms.

Next Train Signs

On rare occasion, but worth mentioning, some Metro line platforms are accessed by traversing another platform for a different line. This means you’ll arrive at a platform and think the current platform is the correct one, but in reality, your desired line is further along. Pay special attention to the overhead signs and the system maps posted on the platform walls to ensure you’re on the correct platform.

How to Ride the Paris Metro

Now that you’ve got tickets and passed through Paris Metro turnstiles & gates we’ll show you the physical details on how to ride a Paris Metro train such as opening train car doors, etiquette on boarding, exiting train when arriving at your Metro stop, seating and more, to help you ride the Metro like a Parisien.

Metro train cars come in a variety of different shapes, colors and sizes. Some Paris Metro trains are completely automated, without a driver/conductor, with automatically opening doors and in some stations, gates on the train station platform which close and open in sync with the Metro train car doors.

Opening Metro train car Doors

Nearly all Paris Metro train cars require a rider to use a lever or a button to manually open the train car door. If you are the person nearest the Paris Metro car door when the train arrives and there are no passengers exiting, who will open the door as they need to exit before you can enter, you will be expected to open the train car door. This is done through either a lever (older) or a button (newer) on the door itself near the center of the two sliding doors of a Metro car. Metro Line 14 is a notable exception being completely automated and driver-less.

To operate the lever, take hold of the handle that points toward you and rotate the lever upwards to unlatch the train car door. The doors will then slide apart (they are assisted by springs/air pressure) to allow you to enter. On occasion the Metro car doors can be sticky and do not slide open fully to let you enter. In this case a firm pull to the side with your hand on the door itself in the direction it was attempting to travel, will usually suffice to open the train car door the rest of the way.

Using Paris Metro Seats

Fold-down seats are available just inside Metro train car doors (called strapontins ), but these seats should only be used when there is sufficient space for travelers to easily enter and exit the train car. This means you shouldn’t use these seats during rush hours as generally the Paris Metro will be too busy to use these seats. Instead, stand where the fold-down seats would otherwise be. Rush hour travel on the Paris Metro is a chance to exercise your “personal space” limits. Don’t be surprised if you end up completely pressed up against other passengers. It’s normal and commonplace, happening every rush hour… it’s simply a slice of commuter life in Paris.

During busy hours on the Paris Metro, passengers are expected to move towards the center of the train car in order to make more space for passengers wanting to board the train car. There will be Metro passengers standing in the aisles of the train car holding on to the many hand holds placed at the tops of seatbacks, to vertical poles throughout the train car and poles attached along the ceilings of the train car, some with straps, some without.

If you find yourself in the middle of the train car with your stop nearing, try to move closer to the doors during the arrival at the station before your desired stop. This puts you in a better position to exit the train when your Metro stop arrives. At each Paris Metro stop there will be an exchange of passengers getting off the train car and entering the car. When arriving at the station before your desired stop, join the group of passengers moving toward the exit, but stop short of the doors to allow other passengers to pass you to exit (and to enter). You want to be close to the doors for your exit, but not right in front as you would block those who need to exit/enter at this stop. Don’t worry about not being able to descend the train when your stop arrives. Simply say “Excusez-moi” and people will immediately begin making room for you to alight, even if it requires that they descend the train also, just to let you off. Parisiens are very well versed in Metro manners and if you’ve read up to this point… you are now as well.

Exiting a Paris Metro station

After having arrived at your desired station you can make your way out of the station by following the blue “Sortie” signs.

Paris Metro exit signs from platform

Each exit is usually referred to by the street or landmark upon which it exits.

Photo carboncopyrocks!

To determine which exit is best for you refer to an exit map located within the Metro station, usually just after exiting the fare paid zone.

(This section refers to transfers included in a single-use Ticket t+. If you’re using a multi-use pass such as Navigo Week/Day pass or Paris Visite, you have unlimited rides during the validity period so you can ignore this section.) Transfers are allowed on the Paris Metro for up to 1 hour 30 minutes after a ticket’s first validation in a turnstile / fare-gate. To make a transfer, the two Paris Metro lines must intersect/cross paths; You aren’t allowed to exit a Metro station, walk on the street, enter another Metro station and use your Paris Metro ticket again (except when specifically marked at the exit of a station, noting “correspondances par la voie publique” is allowed). Similarly, you can’t use a single Paris Metro ticket for a return trip after arriving at a destination, exiting the station and returning within 1 hour 30 minutes to ride in the opposite direction. This is not allowed. Transfers from Paris Metro to Paris RER (and vice versa) are permitted as long as the RER station is inside Zone 1 . Transfers from Paris Metro to Paris Bus or Tram using a Ticket t+, is not allowed; You’ll need a new ticket to transfer from Paris Metro to Bus or Tram. Also the Funiculaire de Montmartre doesn’t allow any transfers onto it or off of it. Once a ticket is used for the Funiculaire, it is spent and unusable for any other trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Difference between paris metro and rer.

The Metro is a classic subway system: mostly underground, many stops, frequent service, short line distances, serving the urban city centre, non-scheduled train timings. The Paris RER (Réseau Express Régional) is a commuter train system that covers much of the greater metropolitan area of Paris ( Ile-de-France ), much further out than that covered by the Metro, including specifically both Paris Airports: Paris Roissy-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY) , Disneyland® Paris , and Chateau Versailles . The confusing part is that the RER traverses central Paris with a handful of stations, acting like an express Metro system with fewer stops, larger trains and faster movement. Paris fare zones apply to the RER train system, unlike the Metro and there are five of them. Using a Paris Metro ticket , the Ticket t+, is permitted on the RER, but only to the limits of Zone 1, the true center of Paris, bordered by the ring road surrounding it, the Boulevard Periphérique .

What’s the best ticket to buy?

If you arrive Monday to Thursday, Navigo Découverte week pass is nearly always your best option. If you arrive Friday to Sunday Navigo Day Pass , Navigo day pass , Paris Visite tickets are other options to consider. More info on choosing a Paris Metro pass and choosing what tickets to buy .

Have a question? Ask here and I’ll answer it. Commonly asked questions will be reposted here.

Further Reading

Guides on Paris Airport trains , Paris Disneyland train and Paris train stations

History, facts and figures of the Paris Metro (wikipedia, en français )

Paris Regional Transport Authority, RATP (partial site available in in English )

• STIF: Les Chiffes, 2005. “Le Reseau du Transports en Commun”. http://www.stif-idf.fr
• Extension of M14 & M13 lines in 2007 & 2008 has added 3 new stations, now totalling 300. http://extension-reseau.ratp.fr
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• Paris Arrondissements

Map & Guide

Paris Arrondissements Map & District Guide

If you're planning a visit to Paris, you've perhaps already come across the word "arrondissements"   and maybe figured out that it somehow relates to location.  But what exactly are Paris arrondissements?   

Basically, arrondissements are administrative districts.   Despite being a fairly compact city, Paris contains 20 arrondissements. Instead of having names, they're known by their numbers:  1 through 20.   So again, at a basic level each area designates a specific area, or part of the city.

You might reasonably think that if the numbers simply designate an administrative area, you don't need to give them another thought, right? 

But in reality, you do because everyone uses the numbers to mean not only location, but much, much more.

Here's why:

Each of the 20 Paris districts has its own unique identity, history, and personality, and vibe, along with popular attractions, special events , and other interesting things to do and see.

So when someone says to you, "You'd probably love staying in the 8th," that means that you might like the leafy Right Bank location as well as the many designer boutiques, wonderful bistros, occasional views of the Eiffel Tower, and elegant, upscale vibe."

Favorite Paris Arrondissement Tours

Although these tours (which are among my own personal favorites) focus on neighborhoods within and across arrondissements, they give you a great way to feel the vibes of each special area:

• Food & Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Le Marais - Small group tour in the 3rd & 4th arrondissements - highly rated
• Iconic Paris Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour - Choose from several different neighorhoods; discover top attractions and secret places
• Montmartre Cheese, Wine, & Pastry Guided Walking Tour - Highly rated food & sightseeing tour in the 18th arrondissement

Whether you're planning your first visit or a return trip to the City of Light, knowing which Paris arrondissements have the attractions, activities, neighborhoods, and events you want to experience will help you make the most of your time, decide where to book a hotel room or reserve an apartment, and discover more to do and see nearby. 

In our Paris Arrondissement Guide below, you'll find a quick explanation of the city's layout, an interactive arrondissement map , highlights about top neighborhoods, destinations, activities, major events, tours, and hotels in each district, the best arrondissements to stay in based on what you want to see and do, and tips for using the district numbers to help you plan your trip to Paris.

We've packed lots of useful information into this article, but it's long .  If you're looking for details about a specific topic or district, use these Quick Links to find it fast: 

Arrondissement Map

Arrondissements Guide:  1st Arr   -  2nd Arr   -  3rd Arr   -  4th   -  5th   -  6th   -  7th   -  8th   -  9th   -  10th   -  11th   -  12th   -  13th   -  14th   -  15th   -  16th   -  17th   -  18th   -  19th   -  20th   - FAQs

Top photo:  Paris arrondissement map, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

Paris Arrondissement Map:  Understanding the City's Layout

You'll find single-digit arrondissements in the center of Paris , which is also the oldest part of the city.  They are where you can explore most of the top historic attractions and not surprisingly, find the most tourists. 

As you can see when you look at our Paris arrondissements map below, districts with higher numbers spiral out clockwise from the center (kind of like the shell of a snail, or that favorite French food, an escargot). 

The city of Paris annexed most of the outer arrondissements such as the 18th, home to the Montmartre neighborhood, back in the 1800s when they were villages, and you can still experience plenty of their original charm. 

They are mostly residential and aside from the gorgeous Sacre Coeur Basilica perched on the highest hill of Montmartre and a few popular attractions such as Atelier des Lumières in the 12th and Père Lachaise Cemetery in the 20th, you usually won't see many tourists.

Our interactive Paris map shows the 20 arrondissements with attractions and landmarks, the city's two great forests, the Seine River, and top attractions plus a few key destinations outside of the city such as Versailles, Disneyland Paris, La Vallée Village discount shopping center, the La Défense business district, and the three closest international airports. 

Zoom in to get a closer view of Paris streets and neighborhoods, or zoom out to see more of France.

Right Bank, Left Bank, and the Seine River Islands

The blue line of the Seine River divides the city into the Right Bank (above the river) and the Left Bank below it. 

In the middle of the Seine are two small islands, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis.  

Île de la Cité, the historic heart of the city includes parts of the 1st and 4th arrondissements.  This is where the area's first settlers, a Celtic tribe called the Parisii , made their home over 2,300 years ago.  It is also where you'll find some of the city's most famous attractions. 

Île Saint-Louis belongs to the 4th district, and is a quiet residential area with 17th century homes, a main street lined with boutiques and bistros, and a few small upscale hotels.

The large green areas at each side of Paris (think of them as the snail's head and tail) represent two enormous tree-filled parks ( bois ), sometimes called the "lungs" of the city because their many trees contribute to the quality of the city's air.

The Périphérique: Paris's Circle Road

One final thing you should know about Paris's layout is that an almost-constantly congested multi-lane highway, the Périphérique (Parisians normally call it "la Périph"), circles the outer districts (but not the parks). 

If you take a taxi or private transport to or from Charles de Gaulle Airport, you'll most likely experience the Périph first-hand - for better or worse.  (Usually for worse, unless you're very, very lucky.)

Paris Arrondissement Guide 

Now, let's take a look at the landmarks and attractions that make each arrondissement special to help you choose where to stay and what to see and do during your visit.

1st Arrondissement:   Louvre Museum, Sainte-Chapelle, Les Halles, Tuileries Garden

Why visit:   Famous attractions, spectacular gardens, and excellent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques pack the 1st arrondissement with must-see "bucket list" sights for first-time as well as returning Paris visitors

Top Attractions in the 1st Arrondissement

Discover:   The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and many other treasured works of art.  Tuileries Gardens, filled with flowers and statues, pools and fountains, cafes, and a giant ferris wheel.  Musée de l'Orangerie , featuring Monet's lush waterlily paintings.  Musée des Arts Decoratifs is a must if you're into design, decorative items, or just like beautiful things.

Find more ways to experience the Louvre

Experience:  Royal Paris in the almost-hidden Palais Royal Garden and shopping arcades, two of the city's biggest and best Christmas Markets during November and December, the soaring stained glass windows and concerts at Sainte-Chapelle, and Marie Antoinette's last days in the Conciergerie, a medieval palace and infamous Reign of Terror prison.

Join a walking tour of Ile de la Cité

The Vibe:  Elegant, lively, historical, with almost-hidden pockets of tranquility

Shop:  Famous designer boutiques along Rue Saint-Honoré, market streets, and the most popular French cookware shops in Paris pack the 1st. 

Explore:  Les Halles, once the city's largest food market before being torn down in the name of urban renewal, now attracts enthusiastic crowds with its new shopping, entertainment, and dining plaza.  Don't miss the jazz clubs in nearby Rue des Lombards or the epic market pedestrian-only street, Rue Montorgueil.

Visit:   Île de la Cité, the tiny Island in the Seine River straddling the 1st and 4th arrondissements where you'll find the historic heart of Paris, medieval masterpieces, hidden gardens, and lots more.

Fun 1st Arrondissement Wine & Food Experiences

• French Wine Tasting Class with Sommelier - Savor French wines, Champagne, and fresh bread as you learn about France's wine region, how Champagne is made, and lots more from the popular O Chateau wine bar about a 5-minute walk from the Louvre
• 2-Hour Seine River Lunch Cruise - See the Louvre Museum and other famous sites in the 1st arrondissement and other parts of Paris as you cruise by while relaxing over a wonderful 3-course lunch
• Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting - Tour the former wine cellars of the King of France across from the Louvre Museum, learn how wine is made, find about about different French grapes and wine regions, and taste some delicious wines

1st Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to Stay in the 1st Arrondissement 

• Top Hotels in the 1st - See our recommendations for best places to stay near the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, Rue Saint-Honoré and Les Halles shopping districts, and other top 1st District attractions

Best places to stay in the 1st District during winter months

See Top Attractions from a Seine River Cruise

2nd arrondissement - covered arcades, sentier, bourse.

Why visit:   You'll love the 2nd arrondissement's covered 19th century shopping arcades, the best Japanese and Korean restaurants in Paris, and fascinating glimpses of the Paris's thriving wholesale textile and design industries in the Sentier neighborhood. 

Top Attractions in the 2nd Arrondissement

The 2nd Arrondissement sometimes gets overlooked as being a mostly-business district dominated by the Bourse (Palais Brongiart), the former Paris stock exchange now used for special trade shows, and at its east end by the Sentier quartier, home to the Paris textile industry and wholesale-only clothing showrooms.

However, you'll find some hidden treasures tucked away in the 2nd - especially if you enjoy shopping and dining.   And at the lively western end of the district, excellent shopping, hotels, and restaurants near the Paris Opera House and bustling Avenue de l'Opéra attract numerous visitors.

Discover:   Japanese restaurants lining Rue Saint-Anne.  Designer boutiques around Place des Victoires, and more affordable shopping along Avenue de l'Opéra. 

Explore: 19th century Passages Couverts , the glass-roofed covered retail arcades and galeries lined with boutiques and bistros - inspiration for today's indoor shopping malls.  Look for Galerie Vivienne (elegant shops and bistros), Passage du Caire (wholesale textiles and clothing), Passage de Choiseul (Korean specialties), Passage du Grand Cerf (art, crafts, esoteric collections), and Passage des Princes (toys and games).  Treasure hunters will want to explore the stamp, coin, and antique dealers in Passage des Panoramas not far from the Drouot Auction House in the 9th.  Explore on your own - or join a secret passages tour.

In and around Sentier, hip restaurants started popping up a few years ago, and now chic hotels are following, making this an increasingly trendy neighborhood for visitors - plus Sentier is next door to the even trendier Marais.

The Vibe:  A buzzy mix of chic and industrial, with fascinating slices of old Paris next to the new and trendy

2nd Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to Stay in the 2nd District

• Hotel Edouard VII - 4-star hotel in a superb location on Avenue de l'Opéra, less than a 5-minute walk from the Paris Opera House.  Find current rates
• Hotel Bachaumont - Lovely 4-star hotel with an Art Deco vibe on a quiet side street between the pedestrian-only Rue Montorgueil market street and a stretch of Rue Montmartre lined with luxury boutiques.  Compare rates
• The Hoxton - Elegant and contemporary, located in a gorgeous 18th century building in the bustling Sentier district.   Find lowest rates

Find more hotels in the 2nd arrondissement

Want to Get Around Paris the Fun & Easy Way?

Hop On/Hop Off double-decker buses give you an easy way to explore Paris arrondissement and see the city's top attractions.  Your ticket gives you access to 3 different tour routes  past all the famous landmarks, sights, and shopping areas.   Hop off as often as you wish to explore on foot, and then hop back on to see more attractions as you enjoy the panoramic views from the top deck.   For a few additional Euros, you can get a 2 or 3 day ticket - a fun and economical way to get around the city as you sightsee.

3rd Arrondissement ( Temple ) - Picasso Museum, Upper Marais, Musée Carnavalet

Why visit:   Known as the Haut ("Upper") Marais, the 3rd Arrondissement gives you a glimpse of medieval Paris plus plenty of ornate 17th century mansions, popular museums, and fashion boutiques.

Top Attractions in the 3rd District

You'll find a number of outstanding museums here including the famous Picasso Museum housed in a 17th century mansion, Musée des Arts et Métiers with its displays ranging from airplanes to perfume, and Musée Carnavalet.  

- Find all the best ways to visit the Picasso Museum

Discover:   Jewish culture in France in the Museum of Jewish Art and History.

Dine on tasty couscous or kebabs at an outdoor table next to the food stalls at Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris where residences have shopped for 400 years. 

Stroll along narrow cobblestone streets and explore the indie designer boutiques.

The Vibe:   Tranquil, arty, family-friendly, with quiet residential enclaves and flower-filled gardens

Recommended Self-Guided Paris Walk:  Rue Payenne Gardens

Where to stay in the 3rd arrondissement

4th Arrondissement - Notre Dame, Pompidou Center, Île Saint-Louis, Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Ville

Why visit:   The 4th Arrondissement is "must see" area for first time and return visitors. So many famous historic sites and top attractions are located here - plus the medieval Marais neighborhood offers some of the best shopping in Paris. 

Top Attractions in the 4th Arrondissement

The 4th includes Île Saint-Louis, half of Île de la Cité, and a swath of the Right Bank, including part of the Marais, and is packed with top attractions, historic neighborhoods, chic shopping, and superb restaurants.

Discover:   The magnificent Cathedral of Notre Dame on Île de la Cité.  Bertillon ice cream, considered the best in Paris, in Île Saint-Louis.   

Explore the trendy boutiques and galleries in the Marais, and visit antique stores and artisans in historic Village Saint-Paul.  

Admire modern and recent art on a private tour at Centre Pompidou, go for carryout falafel in Rue de Rosiers in the Marais home of the oldest Orthodox Jewish community in Paris, and picnic in picture-perfect Place des Vosges.

The Vibe:   Trendy and lively

Fun Ways to See the Marais

• Le Marais District & Jewish Quarter Guided Walking Tour - On this small group tour with maximum 8 people, you'll see important attractions and beautiful parks, and explore the historic Jewish Quarter and its wonderful kosher restaurants and boutiques.  Find out more 
• Marais Walking Food Tour: Cheese, Wine, & Delicacies - You'll stroll around this charming neighborhood and see its many art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and centuries-old architecture as you stop at 8-10 places to sample cheese, wine, pastries, and seasonal specialties.  This tour lasts 3+ hours.  Find out more
• Marais Pastry & Chocolate Tour - You'll explore small streets and hidden nooks of the Marais while learning about the neighborhood, visiting chocolate shops and bakeries, and tasting some samples.   Find out more

Best places to stay in the Marais

Where to stay in the Marais during winter months

Best Paris Arrondissements for Your Visit

Which district should you choose when choosing where to make hotel reservations or book an apartment for your Paris visit?  Here's a quick guide:

Are you a . . .

• First-time (or return) visitor who wants to see top Paris attractions?  Focus on these arrondissements:  1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, part of 16 (Trocadéro) and part of 18 (Montmartre) 
• Return visitor who wants to explore the "real" Paris off the tourist path and discover hidden treasures?   Explore these arrondissements:    2, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 (beyond Trocadéro), 17, 18 (beyond Montmartre), 19, and 20

5th Arrondissement - Latin Quarter, Cluny Museum, Arènes de Lutèce, Panthéon

Why visit:   Layers of history, the famous Latin Quarter and other top attractions, charming street markets, and winding cobblestone lanes make the 5th Arrondissement another "must-see" part of the city for first-time and returning visitors.

Top Attractions in the 5th Arrondissement

Discover:   The famous Pantheon, towering majestically over much of the district  

The Roman-era Arènes de Lutèce and Roman baths under Musée Cluny, home to magnificent tapestries and other medieval treasures. 

The Jardin des Plants, where you'll find an ancient botanic garden, Natural History Museum, and the small but appealing Paris Zoo.

Don't miss the Rue Mouffetard street market, Shakespeare and Company Bookstore, and Tunisian pastries and tiny glasses of mint tea at the Arab Institute's terrace restaurant overlooking the most scenic parts of Paris.

The Vibe:   Relaxed and still slightly bohemian, thanks to all the students in the area - although upscale in a low-keyed way

Find best hotels & apartments in the Latin Quarter

6th Arrondissement - Luxembourg Garden, Saint Germain des Prés, & Saint-Sulpice Church

Why visit:   The lovely 6th arrondissement, famous for its formerly bohemian Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and a slice of the chill Latin Quarter, is a lovely upper-class mostly-residential district with commercial areas devoted to superb boutiques, art galleries, and dining.

Top Attractions in the 6th Arrondissement

Discover:   Beautiful Luxembourg Garden.   Cafés and bistros along Boulevard Saint-Germain made famous by French Existentialists and American writers during the last century.

Visit: The magnificent Church of Saint-Sulpice, setting for The Da Vinci Code, and Paris's oldest church, Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Explore: The district's wonderful antique shops, home furnishing boutiques, and clothing stores.  

Buy:  Holiday gifts at the large Christmas market by Saint-Germain Church from mid-November through December

The Vibe:   Reminiscent of a 19th century romantic painting of the city, a favorite of many American tourists

Recommended 6th Arrondissement Tours

• Saint-Germain Pastry & Chocolate Walking Tour - You'll sample pastries, chocolates, and breads on this walking tour through this posh Paris neighborhood
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Private Tour - From famous cafes and churches to fantastic chocolate and pastry shops, your guide will customize this private tour to suit your interests

Where to Stay in the 6th Arrondissement

• Hotel Clémont - This charming 2-star boutique hotel with 28 guestrooms has air conditioning and an elevator, and serves a fantastic breakfast; great value near the Saint Germain Market and Saint Sulpice Church
• Hotel de Buci - This charming 24-room boutique hotel on the Rue Buci market street features furnishings with a romantic Louis XV 18th century très-Parisian vibe
• Hotel Madison - Lovely 4-star boutique hotel with 50 rooms and suites across from Saint Germain des Prés church in a fantastic location near two metro stations
• Hôtel Montalembert - Excellent 5-star boutique hotel in Saint Germain de Prés near museums, the Bon Marché luxury department store and food hall, and numerous small boutiques and antique shops Find best rates
• Hotel de Seine (52 Rue de Seine) - This centrally-located small 3-star boutique hotel features 30 guestrooms, air conditioning, and an elevator in an excellent location near the Seine River - Book Now

Find more hotels & apartments in the 6th arrondissement

Where to stay in Saint-Germain-des-Pres during winter months

7th Arrondissement - Eiffel Tower, Orsay Museum, Bon Marché, Champ de Mars 

Why visit:   The 7th arrondissement is where you'll find the world's most famous landmark - the Eiffel Tower - as well as several top museums, the only department store on the Left Bank, a popular market street, and many top-notch restaurants.

Top Attractions in the 7th District

Discover:   Sweeping Paris views from the top of the Eiffel Tower.  

Find out how to get skip-the-line-priority entrance to the Eiffel Tower

See Impressionist masterpieces at Musée d'Orsay, non-western art at the Branly Museum, and magnificent sculptures and a romantic garden at Musée Rodin. 

Find skip-the-line tickets & guided tours to the Orsay Museum

Shop for luxury goods and gourmet food and wine selections at Le Bon Marché.  

History buffs will want to explore Les Invalides , where you'll find the Musée de l'Armée and Napoleon's tomb in Dome Church (get a priority entrance ticket that covers both).  

After your visit, walk a few blocks to reach the popular Rue Cler market street, overflowing with small cafes and yummy bakeries where you enjoy a wonderful lunch or dinner.  Or buy a few gourmet goodies and head over to nearby Champ de Mars for a picnic.

The Vibe:   Elegant, quiet, upscale (except for the tourist-packed area around the Eiffel Tower)

Where to Stay in the 7th Arrondissement

Find best hotels near the Eiffel Tower

Best hotels in Paris's 7th arrondissement

8th Arrondissement - Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Golden Triangle, Parc Monceau

Why visit:   With the Arc de Triomphe and Champs Élysées as major tourist attractions, the 8th arrondissement ranks high on the "must visit" list for most first time visitors.  But there's so much to see and do here that you'll want to return whenever you're in Paris.

Top Attractions in the 8th Arrondissement

Discover:   Expansive views from the top of the Arc, the beautiful but blood-soaked Place de la Concorde, and an eternal flame marking the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the base.   Excellent art collections, exquisite architecture, and a little-known tea room overlooking a lovely garden at the Petit Palais .  Special exhibits at the enormous glass-roofed Grand Palais.  Luxury goods on display in designer showrooms along the Golden Triangle.  

Need a change of pace in this wealthy, tourist-filled arrondissement? 

Head over to tranquil Parc Monceau , and visit one of the nearby specialty museums - Musée Cernuschi , Musée Nissim de Camondo , or Musée Jacquemart-André.

Fun Things to Do in the 8th Arrondissement

• View Paris from the top of the Arc de Triomphe - You'll experience panoramic views of the entire city and all its iconic sites.  That's where we took the photo of Sacre Coeur at the top of this page.  Tickets are cheap - but admission lines can be long, so do yourself a favor and get a skip-the-line ticket online before you go.

Find out more about visiting the Arc de Triomphe

Best places to stay in the 8th arrondissement

Fun Ways to See & Do near the Arc de Triomphe

9th arrondissement - palais garnier, pigalle, galeries lafayette, printemps, wax museum, covered passages.

Why visit:   For most tourists, the top reason to visit the 9th arrondissement is shopping at the Grands Magasins (big luxury department stores) - Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps - in this lively district filled with gorgeous19th century Haussmannian architecture.  

Top Attractions in the 9th Arrondissement

More to discover:  

• The spectacular Opéra Garnier (Paris Opera) - the largest and possibly the most flamboyant opera house in Europe, and a must-visit destination for Phantom of the Opera fans.

    Explore the Paris Opera House, a Baroque masterpiece

• Musée Grévin, the wax museum, located in Passage Jouffroy, one of the many historic covered arcades in the 9th. 

    Get your Grevin Museum tickets online and skip the (usually) long ticket queue at the entrance

If you enjoy exploring newly hip neighborhoods, head to trendy South Pigalle, known as SoPi where you can visit the Musée de la Vie Romantic (but do know that SoPi's northern edge bordering the 18th can still feel a bit sketchy due to the remaining sex shows in this former red-light district, although in reality it's quite safe). 

Stop by the famous Drouot auction house, and explore the surrounding streets where you'll find many dealers specializing in stamps, coins, antiques, and other collectibles.

9th Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to stay in the 9th arrondissement

Best places to stay in the 9th during winter months

10th Arrondissement - Canal Saint-Martin, Place de la République, Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est

Why visit:   The diverse 10th arrondissement contains two major Paris train stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Ést, surrounded by numerous popular bistros and cafes, and a variety of neighborhoods - some more gentrified (which means more hotels, etc) than others. 

What to Discover:   Scenic bridges and locks along Canal Saint-Martin - Take a cruise, or simply stroll around the neighborhood and enjoy the colorful street art, lively cafes, and boutiques - in particular, look for up-and-coming young designers and pop-up stores.  

Place de la République (shared with 11th) - another trendy spot filled with bars and bistros, nightlife, and towering over the square, a magnificent statue of Marianne, Goddess of Liberty and symbol of the French Republic.

Where to stay in the 10th arrondissement

11th Arrondissement - Place de la Bastille, Oberkampf, Nightlife, Atelier des Lumieres

Why visit:   The 11th arrondissement is a pleasant mostly residential area, formerly working class but now trendy and increasingly gentrified, with no major landmarks aside from Place de la Bastille and the enormous Opéra Bastille where you can catch a Paris Opera concert or ballet. 

For a unique immersive digitized art and music experience in a former iron foundry, visit Atelier des Lumières.

If you are looking for a lively nightlife scene, check out the bars and clubs in the Oberkampf neighborhood.  If you need any camera equipment or accessories while you are in Paris, you may want to visit one of the specialized camera stores along Boulevard Beaumarchais, near the Chemin Vert Metro Station.

Discover:    Lots of ethnic and French cafes around and near Place de la Bastille.  Vintage furniture and clothing stores around Rue de Marché Popincourt and Rue Nueve Popincourt. 

The Bastille Arts and Crafts Market held from 9am - about 6pm every Saturday along Boulevard Richard Lenoir, starting just beyond the Bastille Métro Station. 

If you are adventurous, explore the almost-hidden passages and interior courtyards along the north side of Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, once occupied by 19th century furniture makers and artisans, and now art galleries, craft studios, and boutiques.

12th Arrondissement - Proménade Plantée, Marché d'Aligre Market, Bercy Village

Why visit:   Although the 12th arrondissement is primarily residential, it has several attractions worth exploring if you're on a return visit to Paris and want to interesting sites beyond the major tourist attractions.  On the 12th's eastern side is the largest public park in Paris, Bois de Vincennes, complete with a chateau, English-style gardens, and a zoo.

Discover:   Interesting city views and exquisite gardens along the elevated parkland of the Proménade Plantée.  Thrilling ballet performances at the glittering Bastille Opera.  Treasures (and junk) at the Marché d'Aligre, the city's most popular flea market.  Spend an afternoon browsing in the boutiques and sipping wine at an outdoor cafe in Bercy Village, converted from 19th century wine warehouses next to the Seine.

Find best places to stay in the 12th arrondissement

Paris Arrondissement Numbers:  4 Ways You Can Use Them

• Avoid getting lost:  Most street signs display the arrondissement number - an easy way to confirm roughly where you are. 
• Find your destination's location:  Not sure where you're going?  Look up the address, which almost always include a 5-digit postal code . The code's last two digits are the arrondissement number, which tells you where your destination is located.   For example, if you look up the address for the Picasso Museum, you'll see the street address plus the postal code: 75004.  That means the museum is in Paris's 4th district.   (Paris addresses always have " 75 " as the first two digits.)
• Plan your trip:   Do you have a bucket list of attractions and places you want to visit?   Look up their addresses, note the district numbers, and plan your itinerary based on locations to minimize your travel time between attractions.
• Choose where to book accommodations :  Once you identify the arrondissement where most of your bucket list attractions are located, choose a hotel or apartment in the same district for ultimate convenience.

13th Arrondissement - Gobelins Tapestry, Place d'Italie, Street Art, Butte aux Cailles

Why visit:   Fans of street art will find plenty to enjoy in the 13th arrondissement, where an innovative mayor and many modern concrete high-rise buildings provide a welcoming canvas space for street art professionals and amateurs.  Otherwise, this is another mostly residential neighborhood - no major tourist attractions, but plenty of interesting local spots to explore.

Discover:   How tapestries are made at Gobelins Manufactory, creators of museum-worthy pieces since the mid-1400s.  A large enclosed shopping mall - a rarity in Paris - in Place d'Italie.  Charming leafy streets in the hilly Butte aux Cailles neighborhood.  And of course, look for street art - some discrete, some mammoth - wherever you go in the 13th.

How to Explore: 

Street Art in the 13th District Walking Tour - You'll see a lot of exciting street art including some by internationally famous graffiti artists in this fascinating tour of the 13th arrondissement- Find out more & book your ticket

Off the Beaten Track in Paris - Travel in style in a vintage Citroen 2CV convertible to see Butte aux Cailles in the 13th as well as a number of other hidden but wonderful places around the city:  the beautiful Place des Vosges park in the Marais, the Roman arena Arènes de Lutèce, the site of the Bastille Prison, arty Village Saint Paul, and seven other special places you might not find on your own - Find out more & book your ticket

14th Arrondissement - The Catacombs, Montparnasse Cemetery, Fondation Cartier

Why visit:  The 14th arrondissement offers an interesting mix of commercial and residential areas, with plenty of cultural and historical attractions worth seeing, including the always-popular Paris Catacombs.

Discover:   A maze of underground tunnels where the remains of about 6 million people are buried in the Catacombs.  The tombs of famous artists, writers, and performers in Montparnasse Cemetery.  Contemporary art exhibits at Fondation Cartier, in a striking building designed by architect Jean Nouvel.  Lots of theaters, restaurants , and several famous bistros in the area around the triangle formed by the Montparnasse-Bienvenue, Edgar Quinet, and Vavin Métro Stations. 

Find out why & how to get skip the line priority tickets for the Catacombs

See all the Skip the Line and Priority Access ticket choices for the Catacombs

Must-visit destination for history buffs:  Musée de la Liberation, a museum that examines the history of the French Resistance and the Liberation of Paris from the Nazis during World War II by focusing on heroic actions of individuals. 

Next to the 14th, on the other side of the Périphérique:   Vanves Flea Market

15th Arrondissement - Parc André Citroen, Montparnasse Tower, Beaugrenelle Mall

Why visit:   The 15th arrondissement is a large, mostly residential middle-to-upper income district with lovely parks, a spectacular shopping mall, and easy access to Île-des-Cygnes (Island of the Swans), an almost-hidden park in the middle of the Seine. Visit the 15th to get a feel for how real Parisians live and play.

Discover:   Hot air balloon rides at Parc André Citroen.  Spectacular views of Paris from on top of Montparnasse Tower.   The weekend antiquarian and used book market at Parc Georges Brassens.   A collection of top clothing and specialty stores in the upscale Beaugrenelle shopping mall.  

For the perfect afternoon, head to the Mirabeau Bridge and walk down the ramp to Île-des-Cygnes, a lovely sliver of an island in the Seine with excellent views of the Eiffel Tower.

Find out where to stay in the 15th district

16th Arrondissement - Trocadéro, Palais de Tokyo, Musée Marmottan, Bois de Boulogne, Paris Aquarium

Why visit:   Although much of the 16th arrondissement is a wealthy residential area (a favorite of well-off American ex-pats), numerous superb museums, excellent Eiffel Tower views, and the huge Bois de Boulogne park give you plenty of reasons to visit. 

Discover:   Unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower from the marble-paved platform at Trocadéro.  A large collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings by Claude Monet at Musée Marmottan.  The French Open, Fondation Louis Vuitton, a chateau and lake, a zoo, and greenhouses containing 100,000 plants in the Bois de Boulogne park. 

You could easily spend days exploring treasures in the 16th's many specialty museums - anthropology at Musée de l'Homme, avant-garde contemporary art at Palais de Tokyo, Asian art at Musée Guimet, fashion at Musée Galliera, 20th century masterpieces at Musée d'Art Moderne, and the world of counterfeiting at Musée de la Contrefaçon, to name just a few.  And if you're visiting Paris with kids, the Paris Aquarium will be a big hit.

Find recommended hotels in Paris's 16th arrondissement

17th Arrondissement - Batignolles Square, Martin Luther King Park

Why visit:   The 17th Arrondissement's economic diversity makes it hard to categorize, and because it lacks any major tourist attractions aside from the Arc de Triomphe (which it shares with the 8th and 16th), you might easily skip over it on your first, second, or even third trip to Paris. 

But if you want to explore the "real" Paris, head to the leafy Batignolles neighborhood in the eastern part of the 17th, where you'll find a mix of 19th century charm and 21st century modernization.

Discover:   Gourmet treats from all over France and freshly harvested organic produce in the Batignolles outdoor markets.  

Charming sidewalk cafes lead up to Batignolles Square, a neighborhood park filled with landscaped hills and dells, a duck pond, and pétanque courts. 

On the other side is Parc Clichy-Batignolles, a gorgeous new recreational arena once occupied by freight yards, where you'll find a skate park, basketball courts, and a playgound surrounded by natural landscaping, scenic walks, and sustainable energy displays including wind turbines and solar panels.

Explore the Artsy & Bohemian Side of Batignolles in this 3-Hour Walking Tour

Find the best places to stay in the 17th arrondissement

18th Arrondissement - Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Les Puces Flea Market

Why visit:   Famous attractions, village-like neighborhoods once populated by artists and writers, and fantastic views of Paris attract large numbers of visitors to the 18th Arrondissement.  You'll also find plenty of appealing cafes and boutiques, especially along Rue des Abbesses where a Christmas Market pops up during December.

Top Montmartre Attractions

Discover:   The sloping hills, vineyard, and stories about famous artists and musicians who once lived in Montmartre.  The charming village of Abbesses.  

Enjoy: Spectacular views from Sacre Coeur.  

Treat yourself to:  Unforgettable shows and dinner at Moulin Rouge.  

Find out about a VIP evening at Moulin Rouge:  Champagne, dinner, and tickets to the hottest show in town

Explore:   Five floors of dazzling textiles and trims at the Saint-Pierre Fabric Market .

Spend a day at:  The biggest flea market in Paris (and the world), Marché aux Puces (Flea Market) in Saint-Ouen located just north of the Peripherique at Clingancourt.  And no, Saint-Ouen is not part of Paris (historically, this was to avoid taxes) and Les Puces isn't technically in the 18th - but it's just across the city line.

Find top Montmartre hotels & apartments in Montmartre

Recommended Montmartre Tours

19th arrondissement - parc de la villette, buttes chaumont park, paris plages.

Why visit:   Cultural, recreational, and scenic attractions fill the 19th Arrondissement's two huge parks - plus the district boasts the city's largest artificial lake, the site of summer festivals, sports, and even a "beach."

Discover:   Cité de la Science et l’Industrie science museum, Cité de la Musique music instruments museum, and Philharmonie de Paris concert hall at Parc de la Villette.  

Enjoy:  Bassin de la Villette's beach and row boats during Paris Plages.   Flower-covered slopes, a waterfall, and some of the best views of Paris in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

Find out about the 17 best locations to see spectacular Paris skyline views

20th Arrondissement - Père Lachaise Cemetery, Belleville, Street Art

Why visit:   The 20th's biggest attraction is Cimetière du Père-Lachaise - the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery - where rows of ornate tombs and monuments of famous writers, musicians, artists, philosophers, and politicians perch on the landscaped hills.  The 20th District also includes a swath of the sprawling and dynamic Belleville neighborhood, which spans parts of the 19th, 10th, and 11th districts as well.

Discover:   The final resting spots of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Frédéric Chopin, Edith Piaf, Rossini, and many other luminaries at Père-Lachaise, along with some of the city's most fascinating and poignant tombstones.  For a special experience, take a guided tour (or choose a small-group or private option).

Where to find the most famous 101 graves at Père-Lachaise

Enjoy:  Sweeping views of Paris from a hilltop covered terrace adorned with graphic art in Parc de Belleville , and at the back, a small historic vineyard; down the side of the hill is a 300-foot long tiered waterfall-fountain, plus expanses of award-winning flower gardens.

Explore:  The interesting street art, indie boutiques, art galleries, green space, and the city's second largest Chinatown (complete with wonderful, affordable restaurants) in Belleville.  And on the other side of the Périphérique from the 20th:  Montreuil Flea Market

Find out where to stay in Paris's 20th arrondissement

Paris Hotel Map - Where to Stay in Your Favorite Paris District

Want to find a convenient Paris hotel or apartment close to your bucket list attractions? 

Find out where to stay on your first trip to Paris:  best neighborhoods

Use this map to find available accommodations & best rates for your travel dates, and make your reservations:

Check out the newest Paris hotels

More to Know about Paris Arrondissements, Names, Quarters, & Neighborhoods

Paris districts:  do they have names.

Yes.  Each arrondissement has a historic name in addition to a number.  But there's no need to learn them because they are not normally used in daily conversation, directions, or much of anything else.

You'll almost always hear Parisians refer to districts by only the number .  For example, "She works in the 7th."

Confused?  Don't worry about it.  By the time you've spent a few days in Paris, all of this will make more sense.

The practice of compartmentalizing Paris into administrative districts and numbering them sequentially dates back to 1795 when the city was divided into 12 arrondissements.  

In 1860, Emperor Napoleon III more than doubled the size of the city by annexing 11 surrounding towns and expanding the number of arrondissements to the present 20. 

The recent formation of "Paris Centre" by administratively combining the first four districts doesn't really change much.  The only practical difference is that now the Paris Centre arrondissements share one mayor and one city hall.  So don't worry - everyone still refers to them as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.

Is a Quartier (Quarter) the Same as a Neighborhood in Paris?  

Sometimes - but not usually.

Each of Paris's 20 arrondissements contains four distinct quartiers (administrative sub-districts) and each quartier has a historic name.

Although many quartier names such as Croulebarbe and Gaillon are no longer used in everyday conversation, others such as Les Halles (1st arrondissement), Sentier (2nd), Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th) - serve double duty as neighborhood names , although (just to keep things confusing) neighborhood boundaries usually don't align with quartiers boundaries.

Additionally, some neighborhood names such Latin Quarter and Marais   reflect what Parisians have traditionally called the area, and have no relationship at all to the names of their quartiers.

For example, the Latin Quarter covers an area in the 5th, 6th, and even a bit of the 13th districts where students from all other Europe gathered during the Middle Ages while studying at the Sorbonne University.  They spoke Latin as their common language, and that's how this Paris neighborhood got its name. 

Similarly, the chic Marais neighborhood spanning large swaths of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements used to be swamp land, and so Parisians called it (somewhat derisively) Le Marais ("the swamp").  

Bottom line:  Paris neighborhood names and locations within or across arrondissements are useful to know.   Quartier names, not so much.

What Arrondissement Has the Most Tourist Attractions? 

Probably the 1st arrondissement (although not everyone may define "tourist" attraction the same way).

In this old and historic Paris area, you'll find the Louvre Museum (former Palais du Louvre, home to Paris kings and queens, and now the world's most-visited museum.

More to the point, Paris 1 is where you can visit Sainte Chapelle with its stunning gorgeous medieval stained glass walls and wonderful classical concerts and La Conciergerie, a medieval palace and Reign of Terror prison.  Both are located on Ile de la Cité  - but only half of the island is in the 1st; the rest, including the part with Notre Dame Cathedral) is in the 4th. 

Across the Seine on the Right Bank is the rest of the 1st, and that's where you'll find da Vinci's Mona Lisa) in the Louvre, Monet's famous water lily paintings in Musée de l'Orangerie, the Forum des Halles shopping center where the old Les Halles wholesale food markets once stood, some of the city's best kitchenware stores (including Dehillerin), part of the appealing Rue de Montgoreiul market street, along Rue Saint Honoré  with its numerous designer boutiques, Tuileries Garden, and the Palais Royal Garden, just to name a few of the top attractions. 

And last but certainly not least, the 1st is where you'll find the super-popular Tuileries Christmas Market and Hotel de Ville Christmas Market.  

What Does "1er" Mean?  What about "1ère"? 

This is how Parisians (and everyone else in France) abbreviates "1st Arrondissement" ( "la premier" in French) - and yes, there's a very short ("1er" or "2e" etc) and a slightly longer ("1ère" or "2ème") way (which you'll much less frequently see written as "1ière" or "2ième") to do this and both are used interchangeably.  

Although the longer version is technically incorrect, that doesn't stop people from using it - so don't be startled if you see it.

However ... older street signs may show the arrondissement number as a Roman numeral  - so if you're feeling fuzzy about whether "IX" means 9 or 11 (or maybe 4 or 6), brush up on those as needed.  (This really isn't a quiz, but here's the "answer":  IX = 9)

Here's a cheatsheet with arrondissement numbers in English, French (along with Roman numerals), short and longer French abbreviations, and historical names in case you do happen to hear them:

Arrondissement

• First (1st)
• Second (2nd)
• Third (3rd)
• Fourth (4th)
• Fifth (5th)
• Sixth (6th)
• Seventh (7th)
• Eighth (8th)
• Ninth (9th)
• Tenth (10th)
• Eleventh (11th)
• Twelfth (12th)
• Thirteenth (13th)
• Fourteenth (14th)
• Fifteenth (15th)
• Sixteenth (16th)
• Seventeenth (17th)
• Eighteenth (18th)
• Nineteenth (19th)
• Twentieth (20th)
• Première (I)
• Deuxième (II)
• Troisième (III)
• Quartrième (IV)
• Cinquième (V)
• Sixième (VI)
• Septième (VII)
• Huitième (VIII)
• Neuvième (IX)
• Dixième (X)
• Onzième (XI)
• Douzième (XII)
• Treizième (XIII)
• Quatorzième (XIV)
• Quinzième (XV)
• Seizième (XVI)
• Dix-septième (XVII)
• Dix-huitième (XVIII)
• Dix-neuvième (XIX)
• Vingtième (XX)

Abbreviations

•  2e (2ème)
• 10e (10ème)
• 11e (11ème)
• 12e (12ème)
• 13e (13ème)
• 14e (14ème)
• 15e (15ème)
• 16e (16ème)
• 17e (17ème)
• 18e (18ème)
• 19e (19ème)
• 20e (20ème)
• Hôtel de Ville
• Palais-Bourbon
• Observatoire
• Batignolles-Monceau
• Butte-Montmartre
• Buttes-Chaumont
• Ménilmontant

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Paris for beginners; a basic visitors guide for the City of Light

T wenty-four years ago, we spent nine days in Paris, working out of a Frommer’s Guidebook. That self-guided trip worked, but about half the time, we were either confused about our whereabouts or lost. This time, we were in France for two weeks, where our river cruise would include 5 days in Paris and 10 days cruising the Seine River to Normandy. All our days would be directed by professional guides, something new to treasure at this stage in our lives. 

From this trip, I’ve tried to outline a first-time Paris visitor’s guide. It’s wise for travelers to outline their key targets in advance - is your trip devoted to seeing the sights, touring the museums, fine arts and fashion, food and wine, sports, or the Parisian laid-back lifestyle?

Before our Grand Circle Cruise (from Paris down the Seine River to Normandy and the D-Day beaches), we had booked the pre-trip tour of Paris. So, off we went, flying from Sacramento to Atlanta, then on to Charles DeGault Airport, and then shuttled to the Citadines Center Saint Germain Hotel. Just blocks down the Seine River from Notre Dame Cathedral; only a few blocks further downriver is the Louvre Museum.   From this location on the river, we could virtually walk to about 80% of the critical destinations we wanted to revisit.

Paris, with an estimated population of almost 2.2 million and a metro area of approximately 12 million, makes up 20% of the total French population. The city is the fifth most populated in the European Union and one of the more densely populated cities in the world. With scores and scores of major attractions, many are within short walking distance. The city was among the first to electrify and expand its street lights, earning it the title “City of Light.”

For centuries, Paris has been a center of the world’s finance, diplomacy, commerce, fashion, gastronomy and culture. We have seen many of the key attractions the City of Light offers, spread amongst the city's 20 arrondissements (districts). The city’s Metro (subway), the second largest in Europe, will get you quickly around the city within a few blocks of your destination, all hours of the day.

On our first evening of our Paris pre-trip, some of our fellow travelers booked dinner and a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge, quite a stunning performance. We chose to explore restaurants blocks from our hotel, choosing a lovely sidewalk café near a Metro entrance/exit, allowing us to people-watch Parisians; all in all, it was a lovely evening.

Museums? It’s said you could do a different museum every day for a year and not run out of destinations to visit. Start with the Louvre or the d’Orsay Museum. If fine arts or museum experience is your primary focus, it helps to build a target list in advance with so many choices. The Trip Advisor app is always helpful, as is the Paris official website.

At the Louvre, the largest and most visited museum in the world, take the time to home in on the Mona Lisa and Michelangelo’s statue of David. Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa in the early 1500s by an Italian noblewoman, eventually acquired by the French nation and permanently displayed in the Louvre since 1797.

Musée d'Orsay is found on the Left Bank of the Seine. Sited in the former Gare d'Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built 1898-1900, the museum holds mainly French impressionist and post-impressionist art dating from 1848 to 1914, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography. While still a vast museum, it feels more intimate than the Louvre.

With one full day in Paris, we took in the Louvre (briefly), the Musee d'Orsay,  the Eiffel Tower, and the Palace of Luxenberg and Luxenberg Gardens, though we hiked over 10 miles that day. With lovely sidewalk cafés at almost every intersection, there is no lack of libation stops along your way.

The Eiffel tower is visible from many locations in the city. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair and designed to last just 20 years, the tower was so famous and profitable that it was never removed. Take an evening stroll along the river (or a river cruise) and admire the Eiffel Tower with sparkling, twinkling lights at night for a truly memorable experience.

Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral (meaning "Our Lady of Paris"), referred to simply as Notre Dame, is a medieval Catholic cathedral built on an island in the Seine River, a fine example of French Gothic architecture. Attributes such as the pioneering use of ribbed vault ceilings and flying buttresses, beautiful rose windows, and over-achieving sculpture set it apart from other cathedrals nationwide.

A devastating fire in April 2019 has closed the cathedral to a complicated and expensive renovation, not to be completed until sometime late in 2024. One can still circle the cathedral to see the construction work progressing.

On another full day, we visited the Sacré-Cœur Basilica on the summit of the  butte  of  Montmartre . This beautiful church is one of the more popular tourist destinations in the city, while the Montmartre District offers intriguing shops and restaurants circling the hills.

Once again, first-time visitors should organize their thoughts and plans before venturing into this lovely City of Light - and plan a series of stops for food and drink to enjoy the laid-back Parisian lifestyle so closely aligned with hundreds of outdoor sidewalk cafés.

For more information

Grand Circle Cruises,  GCT.com ; Paris official visitor site,  parisjetaime.com ; TripAdvisor travel app.

Contact Tim, [email protected]; where are you traveling?

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Paris for beginners; a basic visitors guide for the City of Light

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The Best Times to Visit Paris for Great Weather, Events, and Fewer Crowds

Not that you can ever go wrong with a trip to the City of Light.

Paris is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, stuffed with iconic landmarks, renowned museums, designer boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants.

There are advantages to visiting in every season. Although January through March are the chilliest months, they're also the quietest and the best for wrapping up in a chic coat and experiencing Paris like a local. In the spring, vibrant blooms in the famed jardins are a major draw, while the long summer days create the ideal conditions for sipping cocktails at an outdoor brasserie late into the evening. September and October are arguably the best months to visit, when the air turns brisk, Paris Fashion Week is in full force, and changing leaves accent the city.

To help you decide when to travel to Paris, here are the main tourist seasons:

• High season: June to August and late December
• Shoulder seasons: April to May and September to November
• Low season: Early December and January to April

Ready to book your trip to the City of Light? These are the best times to visit Paris depending on your priorities.

Best Time to Visit Paris to Avoid Crowds

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, with tourism peaking between June and August. There are major downsides to visiting Paris in its high season: Large crowds make exploring popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre more time-consuming, and you might need a reservation to dine at trendy restaurants. Hotel prices, too, will inevitably climb in the summer months.

If your main objective is to avoid crowds, visit between October and April — sidestepping the jam-packed holiday season in December. Go at the beginning or end of this window for temperatures still comfortable enough to sit outside at one of the quintessentially Parisian cafe tables.

To see the city's top tourist attractions with fewer people around, aim to visit on weekday mornings, but check the official tourism website since many museums are closed one day or more each week. Other crowd-beating tactics include buying tickets that allow you to skip the line and walking instead of squeezing into public transportation. Paris is best enjoyed on foot anyway.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Best Time to Visit Paris for Good Weather

Travelers are drawn to Paris in the summer because of the long days and sunny weather. It's a stunning time to see the sights, from Sacré Cœur to the Jardin du Luxembourg, and the laid-back atmosphere at cafes and along the Seine is a treat. It's worth noting, however, that Paris is not known for its air conditioning. In fact, AC isn't as common in Europe as it is in the U.S., though most hotels have it. While Paris can see heat waves that bring temperatures in the 80s and 90s, summer temperatures are generally comfortable, in the mid-70s range.

Winter in Paris is relatively mild, but avoid visiting between December and February if you're averse to temperatures in the 30s and 40s. Does it snow in Paris? Not really. The city receives a dusting now and again, but visitors needn't pack bulky gear for extreme weather. Spring temperatures are typically pleasant, in the 50s and 60s, but come with a higher chance of rain — May is one of the rainiest months in Paris. Fall can also bring wet weather. From mid-September to November, after the Labor Day and Fashion Week rushes, Paris quiets down and the weather becomes crisp and autumnal.

Best Time to Visit Paris for Lower Prices

The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the off-season — in the winter, before and after the holiday rush, which means early December, January, and February. These months see average temperatures in the 30s and 40s, but if you don't mind the cold, you'll likely save on flights, public transportation, attractions, and accommodations.

Visiting Paris in winter is special — not least because the restaurants are less crowded and attractions quieter — as well as easy and affordable. Cons include fewer tour options and less frequent tours, including a reduced timetable for cruises on the Seine.

Best Times to Visit Paris for Holidays and Festivals

The city's calendar is packed with festivals, holidays, and traditions worth traveling for. Let's start with the biggest sporting events: the Paris Marathon is typically held in April, the French Open begins in May and ends in June, and the Tour de France typically zooms into Paris in July.

In May, museums across the city open their doors for free perusing after hours on La Nuit des Musées . In the summer, the iconic Fête de la Musique brings live music to parks and other public spaces on June 21, and Bastille Day is marked by military parades and fireworks on July 14. The Paris Jazz Festival is an ongoing event from June to September. Both fall and spring attract the international style set to Paris Fashion Week, held in late September/early October and late February/early March.

Starting around mid-November, the holiday season in Paris sees grand boulevards like the Champs-Élysées ablaze with Christmas lights and holiday markets popping up around the city. Parisians wrap up the holidays with the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, which is when you'll find king cake (or galette des rois ) on market tables and in bakery windows everywhere.

Worst Times to Visit Paris

There's no bad time to visit Paris — the city is remarkable any time of year, even when it's bitterly cold or sweltering and teeming with tourists. But if you're easily annoyed by heat and crowds, you should probably think twice about a trip in July or August. If you happen to be in Paris during a heat wave, you could be quite uncomfortable sans AC in some attractions, shops, and cafes. And during the high season, prices are correspondingly high.

The holidays are another chaotic (albeit magical) time in Paris. By all means, go in December if you want to shop for unique gifts and see Christmas lights galore, but avoid this period if you're hoping for a quiet trip.

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20 of the Best Free Things to Do in Paris

From no-cost Louvre entry and the best Eiffel Tower views to tango lessons along the Seine.

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

Take the Iron Lady herself: Not only is she visible from nearly every part of the city, but she's situated on top of a park, where you could have a lounge, or a picnic, or the perfect photo—at no cost to you.

Also complimentary are the City of Light's many churches, nearly all of which are artistic and architectural marvels. There's also a gigantic flower market, an even bigger antiques market, a lineup of holiday markets, and one of the most beautiful libraries you've ever seen, available to all visitors gratis. And then, there's the Seine. Is there a more scenic walk? A better spot for people watching? A more romantic spot to take a tango class, for free?

Whether you're dropping in for the Olympics or pre-planning a holiday adventure, rest assured, you can enjoy all the things that make Paris Paris without emptying your wallet. (Unless, of course, you can't resist French fashion. But then, can you really put a price on style?)

Take advantage of free museum Sundays.

On the first Sunday of every month, Paris's many flawless art museums are free to enter. While each museum has something special to offer, if we had to recommend just one, it would be the Musée de l'Orangerie. That's where you'll find Monet's "Waterlilies" series—and trust, no matter how many times you've "seen" them, there's nothing quite like seeing them in person.

Some of our favorite museums that participate : Musée de l'Orangerie, Musée D'Orsay, Centre Pompidou, Musée Rodin, Musée Picasso, Musée National des Arts Asiatiques

Admire the Louvre's pyramids.

The Louvre doesn't participate in that free Sunday perk—they do the first Friday instead, but only after 6 p.m. and not during July and August. Even if you don't go inside to say hi to the Mona Lisa, though, the outside of the Louvre, once a palace, is certainly worth visiting. With the addition of I. M. Pei's glass pyramids, it's the perfect blend of old and new that Paris does so well. Plus, that'll put you on the Rue de Rivoli, the perfect place to eat and shop.

Tiptoe through the Tuileries.

While there are plenty of beautiful gardens in the world, few cities do formal urban gardens quite like the French. Case in point: the Jardin des Tuileries, or Tuileries Garden, which—though ideally located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde—just might make you believe you strolled into Versailles. There are fountains, statues galore, and even a pristine, white ferris wheel. And yet, it doesn't feel too precious: Chairs are scattered haphazardly around each "pond," into which you'll see plenty a Parisian dip a toe.

More formal gardens to explore : Jardin du Palais Royal, and Jardin des Plantes

Read a book or play pétanque in Luxembourg Gardens.

While Musée du Luxembourg entry isn't free, Jardin du Luxembourg itself is—and it's an absolute oasis. Claim your spot and settle in for hours on end with a good book, podcast, or even for a picnic. (Seats around Medici Fountain are especially peaceful.) Once you feel rested, seek out pétanque (similar to bocce) and chess areas throughout the gardens.

Have a picnic on the Champs de Mars.

While it may be fenced off at times, try not to leave Paris without toting baguettes, croissants, and cheese galore to the Champs de Mars for an unforgettable picnic. The Iron Lady will be third-wheeling your date—and really, what's more romantic than that?

Unleash your inner Belle (or Beast) at the Salle Ovale.

The Bibliothèque Nationale de France Library (France's big, beautiful research library and archives) opened to the public in 2023, which means you can finally see the pièce de résistance : the Salle Ovale, or Oval Room. Located within the Richelieu wing, the Salle Ovale is truly magnificent—and not just because it's easy on the eyes. It's also home to more than 20,000 books, including a surprisingly large collection of comic books.

Take a dance lesson along the Seine.

Feeling, how do you say, romantique ? Do as local lovers do and go dancing on the Seine. Every evening throughout the warmer months, you'll find couples tango-ing under twinkling lights on the Left Bank. And don't let not being Fred Astaire hold you back. Free lessons are offered around 7 p.m., so truly anyone can join in.

Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night.

You haven't truly seen La Tour Eiffel until you've seen her do her thing at night. While she starts glowing at dusk, she sparkles every hour on the hour from sunset until 1 a.m. (2 a.m. during the summer). All of the light shows last five minutes, save for the last one, which continues for a full 10.

Climb the hills of Montmarte.

Once home to Van Gogh and Picasso, Montmarte is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris, and for good reason. Not only, as you can see, is it a feast for the eyes—as well as a workout for the legs—but it's where you'll find artists aplenty. Head to the Place du Tertre, and they'll be lined up, shoulder to shoulder, ready and waiting to work on your portrait. (And really, is there a souvenir more Parisian?)

And while you're there…

Appreciate one of the best views of the city at Sacré-Coeur.

Keep climbing and you'll eventually hit the 18th's shining beauty: the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. Designed in the Roman-Byzantine style, it's a sight to behold, both inside and out, so do pop in, if only for a minute. But just as stunning are the panoramic views of Paris you'll see once you walk back outside.

Stroll through Paris's coziest neighborhood, Le Marais.

If delicious falafel, cute bakeries, tiptop vintage, glorious architecture, or just plain-old history—especially Jewish history—is what you seek, the Marais neighborhood in the city's 4th arrondissement is the neighborhood for you. You can spend a whole day here and still barely discover all the gems it holds. Don't miss the absolutely breathtaking Place de Vosges (pictured), the oldest planned square in Paris.

Check in on Notre-Dame.

When Notre-Dame de Paris caught on fire in 2019, the whole world mourned. But Parisians have been hard at work on her restoration ever since, and, at long last, she's almost ready to open her doors to the public once more. (Current predictions are for December 2024.) There's still plenty of the medieval beauty you can see, though, as she's truly a work of art. Plus, visiting her puts you smack in the center of the Seine.

Pop into one of Paris's iconic bookstores.

Notre-Dame is directly across from Shakespeare and Company, one of Paris's most famous independent bookstores—which just so happens to primarily stock English books. (If you're feeling peckish, they also have a café.)

While you're in the area, don't forget to visit the bouquinistes: Paris's iconic book stalls, which line the Seine. They're free to browse, of course, but they sell all kinds of treasures, including art, posters, records, and more.

Swoon over the stained glass dome inside the Galeries Lafayette.

Tucked right behind Paris's famed Opera house is the Galeries Lafayette, arguably the best department store in the city, if only for its aesthetic treasure: the stained glass dome. It's a stunner all year round, but visit during the holidays, and you'll find it decked to the nines.

Don't skip visiting the roof. Also free to enter, it's where you'll find another one of Paris's most magical views.

Embrace your inner movie star at the Marché Aux Fleurs.

Remember the scene in 1957 film Funny Face , where Audrey Hepburn, in a stunning floral dress and oversized hat, strikes a dramatic pose inside a giant flower market? That would be Marché Aux Fleurs, Paris's biggest flower mart. It's visited by professional florists and civilians alike, and it can also be visited by you, for free, if only to channel Audrey and take in the beauty.

Ogle the Iron Lady from Trocadéro.

To take in the Eiffel Tower in all her glory, you'll want to head straight to where countless newly engaged couples have gone before you: Trocadéro. It has gardens, fountains, and ponds galore, but you'll want to be on the square plaza itself: the perfect place to get the photo. (It really is the spot, though, so if you want a human-free photo, you better set that alarm for dawn.)

See her from a different angle on Avenue de Camoëns.

While Trocadéro is second to none when it comes to getting the perfect Eiffel pic, Avenue de Camoëns comes in at a very nice second place. With the trees, architecture, and those balustrades, it's all just a little cozier. A little more classic. A little more, well, romantic.

Enjoy a feast for the ears at Eglise Saint Eustache.

Lately, the Eglise Saint Eustache has become quite well-known for its "Luminiscence" show, in which the Renaissance beauty is completely lit up in a 360-degree light show, to the tune of a live orchestra. But the thing is, you don't have to pay to hear the church's main attraction: its organ, the largest in France. Free organ recitals are held every Sunday at 5 p.m.

Walk the Champs-Élysées.

Paris's 5th Avenue is the perfect place to get your high-end shopping done. Certainly not free, but strolling along Champs-Elysees is. It begins at the Arc de Triomphe and stretches all the way to the Place de la Concorde (one end of the Tuileries), so it's a shouldn't-miss activity in and of itself—especially if you're trying to get your steps in.

Visit a few of the late greats at Père Lachaise Cemetery.

Measuring 110 acres, the Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Paris. It was also, when it opened in 1804, Paris's first garden cemetery, making it not only a somber place, but a particularly beautiful one—fitting, as its the eternal resting place of so many artists, including Colette, Frédéric Chopin, Édith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Olivia de Havilland, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.

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