The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower.

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower. /n It is one of the most recognizable structures in the world and a symbol of Paris.

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars.

The Champ de Mars is a large public greenspace in Paris, France, located in the seventh arrondissement, between the Eiffel Tower to the northwest and the École Militaire to the southeast.

Champ de Mars is a large public greenspace in Paris, located in the seventh arrondissement, between the Eiffel Tower to the northwest and the École Militaire to the southeast. /n The park is named after the Campus Martius in Rome, a tribute to the Latin name of the Roman God of war.

Champ de Mars is a large public greenspace in Paris.

The iconic river that flows through the heart of Paris. River cruises offer stunning views of the city's landmarks.

The Seine River is a major waterway within the Paris Basin in the north of France. It is an important commercial waterway within the Paris Basin in the north of France. /n The river provides the setting for many of Paris's most famous and beloved sights and landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

The Seine River is a major waterway within the Paris Basin in the north of France.

Notre-Dame de Paris, referred to simply as Notre-Dame, is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. The cathedral is consecrated to the Virgin Mary and considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.

Notre-Dame Cathedral is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. The cathedral is consecrated to the Virgin Mary and considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. /n Its construction began in 1160 under Bishop Maurice de Sully and was largely complete by 1260, though it was modified frequently in the following centuries.

Notre-Dame Cathedral is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité.

A historic and intellectual neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere, bookshops, and cafes.

The Latin Quarter is a historic and vibrant neighborhood in Paris, known for its student life, lively atmosphere, and bistros. /n The area gets its name from the Latin language, which was widely spoken in and around the University during the Middle Ages.

The Latin Quarter is a historic and vibrant neighborhood in Paris.

A historic district in Paris, home to many old, aristocratic style buildings, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

Marais is a historic district in Paris, known for its architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse community. It is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. /n The area is home to many historic and important buildings, including the oldest planned square in Paris, Place des Vosges.

Marais is a historic district in Paris, known for its architecture and vibrant nightlife.

The Louvre, or the Louvre Museum, is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris, France. A central landmark of the city, it is located on the Right Bank of the Seine in the city's 1st arrondissement.

The Louvre Museum is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris, France. It is a central landmark of the city, located on the Right Bank of the Seine. /n The museum is housed in the Louvre Palace, originally built as the Louvre castle in the late 12th to 13th century under Philip II.

The Louvre Museum is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris.

One of the oldest and most vibrant districts in Paris. It's known for its deep-rooted Jewish community, LGBT culture, and trendy shopping scene.

Le Marais is a historic district in Paris, known for its preserved medieval architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse community. This neighborhood is a testament to the city's rich history, with its narrow, winding streets and pre-revolutionary buildings. It's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. /n Despite its popularity, Le Marais retains a local feel, with its small, independent shops and cafes. The area is also home to the city's Jewish Quarter, adding to its cultural diversity. Whether you're interested in history, fashion, or food, Le Marais has something to offer. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city, with many of Paris's main attractions within walking distance.

Le Marais is a historic district in Paris, known for its preserved medieval architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse community.

A historic and artistic neighborhood known for its bohemian past and the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur.

Montmartre is a large hill and historic district in Paris's 18th arrondissement. It is best known for its bohemian past and the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur on its summit. /n The other, older, church on the hill is Saint Pierre de Montmartre, which claims to be the location at which the Jesuit order of priests was founded.

Montmartre is a large hill and historic district in Paris's 18th arrondissement.

A Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, located at the highest point in the city.

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in Paris, France. It is a popular landmark and the second highest point in the city. /n The basilica was designed by Paul Abadie. Construction began in 1875 and was completed in 1914.

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

A chic and intellectual neighborhood known for its literary cafes, art galleries, and antique shops.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a neighborhood located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. It is one of the city's most famous neighborhoods, known for its historic cafes, boutiques, and literary culture. /n The area has a rich history and has been home to many famous writers and artists over the years.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a neighborhood located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris.

Experience the magic of Paris, France, the City of Light. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Stroll along the Seine River or through the charming Montmartre district. Indulge in world-class cuisine, from croissants to escargot, and shop in chic boutiques along the Champs-Élysées. Explore the rich history and culture of Paris through its many museums, galleries, and historic sites. At night, enjoy a show at the Moulin Rouge or gaze at the city's twinkling lights from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Paris is not just a city, it's a world of its own waiting to be discovered.

Eiffel Tower

Champ de Mars

Seine River

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Latin Quarter

Marais

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top. Don't forget to take some memorable photos.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Champ de Mars, the large public greenspace at the base of the Eiffel Tower. Taste some local French delicacies.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River. Visit the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral and admire its stunning architecture.

Have dinner in a traditional French restaurant in the Latin Quarter. Try some classic French dishes like escargot and coq au vin.

Experience Paris' vibrant nightlife in the trendy Marais district. Visit some of the popular bars and clubs in the area.

Exploring Iconic Landmarks and Vibrant Nightlife

Louvre Museum

Le Marais

Montmartre

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Begin your second day with a visit to the Louvre Museum. Explore the vast collection of art and historical artifacts.

Have lunch in a cozy café in the Le Marais neighborhood. Enjoy a croque-monsieur or a quiche Lorraine.

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming Montmartre district. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy the panoramic view of Paris.

Dine in a chic bistro in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. Savor a delicious crème brûlée for dessert.

End your trip with a boat cruise on the Seine River. Enjoy the illuminated views of the city's landmarks.

Art, History, and Scenic Views

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

The Paris Metro is a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city. It has 16 lines and stops at more than 300 stations, covering most of the city's main attractions. Metro services usually run from 5:30 am to 12:40 am (until 1:40 am on Fridays and Saturdays).

Paris has an extensive bus network that can take you to many parts of the city that are not served by the Metro. Buses usually run from 7 am to 8:30 pm, with some lines operating until midnight. The Noctilien night bus service operates from 12:30 am to 5:30 am.

The RER is a commuter train system that connects Paris with the surrounding suburbs and popular destinations such as Disneyland Paris and the Palace of Versailles. There are five RER lines (A to E) that intersect with various Metro lines.

Paris has eight tram lines that mainly serve the city's outskirts. Trams are a good option if you're staying outside the city center or want to visit attractions located in the suburbs.

Paris has a public bicycle sharing system called Velib'. You can rent a bike from one of the many Velib' stations scattered throughout the city. Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Paris, especially with its many bike lanes and paths.

Taxis are readily available in Paris, whether hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked in advance. All taxis are equipped with a meter, and the fare is based on the distance traveled and the time of day.

Ridesharing services like Uber, Bolt, and Kapten are available in Paris. These services can be a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You'll need to download the respective app and have an internet connection to book a ride.

The Batobus is a boat service that operates on the Seine River. It stops at nine locations close to Paris's main attractions. The boats run every 20-25 minutes from 10 am to 7 pm (later during the summer months).

Paris is a very walkable city, with many of its major attractions located close to each other. Walking is not only a free mode of transport but also a great way to soak up the city's atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Renting a car in Paris is an option, but it's not recommended due to heavy traffic, expensive parking, and the excellent public transportation system. If you do decide to rent a car, remember that you'll need an international driving permit if you're from outside the EU.

A buttery, flaky, viennoiserie pastry of Austrian origin, named for its historical crescent shape. It's a staple in French bakeries and a must-try for any visitor to Paris.

Croissant

A dish of cooked land snails, usually served as an appetizer in France. It's a classic French delicacy that's popular in Paris.

Escargot

A traditional French dish of chicken slow-cooked with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and optionally garlic. It's a hearty dish that's a favorite in Paris.

Coq au Vin

A traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating in Nice. It's a popular dish in Paris, especially in the summer months.

Ratatouille

A dessert consisting of a rich custard base topped with a contrasting layer of hard caramel. It's a classic French dessert that's a must-try in Paris.

Crème Brûlée

A long, thin loaf of French bread that is commonly made from basic lean dough. It's a staple in French cuisine and a must-try for any visitor to Paris.

Baguette

A kind of pie with a savory filling consisting of eggs, milk or cream, and cheese, meat, seafood or vegetables. Quiche Lorraine is a variant that includes bacon. It's a popular dish in Paris.

Quiche Lorraine

A type of soup usually based on meat stock and onions, and often served gratinéed with croutons and cheese on top. It's a traditional French soup served at any time of day in Paris.

Soupe à l'oignon

An upside-down tart in which the fruit (usually apples) are caramelized in butter and sugar before the tart is baked. It's a classic French dessert that's a must-try in Paris.

Tarte Tatin

A French sparkling wine. The term Champagne can be used as a generic term for sparkling wine, but in the EU and some countries it is legally reserved for sparkling wines made in the Champagne region of France. It's a popular drink in Paris.

Champagne

An anise-flavoured spirit and apéritif from France, typically containing 40–45% alcohol by volume, although there exist alcohol-free varieties. It's a popular drink in Paris, especially in the summer months.

Pastis

A French coffee drink. In the most popular variant found in French cafés, equal parts steamed milk and strong hot coffee are combined. It's a staple in French cafés and a must-try for any visitor to Paris.

Café au lait

New Year's Day

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

WWII Victory Day

Ascension Day

Whit Monday

Bastille Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Armistice Day

Christmas Day

A grand palace and former seat of power, known for its opulent design and Hall of Mirrors.

Château de Versailles

The beautiful gardens and home of impressionist painter Claude Monet.

Monet's Garden in Giverny

A former royal residence, known for its Renaissance and classical architecture.

Château de Fontainebleau

A city in northeastern France, known for its cathedral and Champagne production.

Reims

A historic château with an extensive art collection and park.

Château de Chantilly

A city on the River Seine, known for its Gothic cathedral and medieval old town.

Rouen

A region known for its historic castles, such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

Loire Valley Castles

A small rocky island commune, known for its abbey.

Mont Saint-Michel

A city in eastern France, known for its medieval cityscape and cathedral.

Strasbourg

A city in Belgium, known for its canals and medieval buildings.

Bruges

Colmar

French Riviera

Lille

Lyon

Nice

Nimes

Wall mural paintings by famous French street artist Seth Globepainter (Julien Malland) at the Parc de Belleville

Parisians are known for their fashion sense. Dressing more formally than in other cities can help you blend in.

The French appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language. Even just a few basic phrases can go a long way.

Tipping is not mandatory in Paris, as a service charge is already included in your bill. However, it's common to leave small change.

Paris is a walkable city, but it also has an extensive Metro system. Familiarize yourself with the routes to easily navigate the city.

Pickpocketing can be a problem in Paris, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Most museums and monuments in Paris are closed on either Monday or Tuesday. Check the opening days and hours before you visit.

Parisians take their food seriously. Take time to enjoy your meals, and remember that dinner is typically served from 7:30 pm.

Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants.

Paris can be very busy during the peak tourist season (June-August). Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Many shops in Paris close on Sundays, and some also close for a few hours in the afternoon.

Paris has a temperate climate. Summers (June-August) can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), while winters (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).

Public restrooms can be hard to find in Paris. Cafes and restaurants usually have restrooms for customers.

Paris is divided into 20 districts, known as 'arrondissements'. Each has its own character and attractions.

The tap water in Paris is safe to drink and is subject to strict health controls.

Paris is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

The standard voltage in Paris is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You may need a power plug adapter or voltage converter.

In Paris, the emergency number for police is 17, for medical is 15, and for fire is 18.

Many Parisians take vacation in August, so some shops and restaurants may be closed.

Paris is generally safe, but like any big city, it's wise to avoid less crowded areas late at night.

If you're driving, be aware that Paris has a high volume of traffic and parking can be difficult and expensive.

January is the coldest month in Paris, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter sales.

February is still chilly, but the days are getting longer. It's a great time to visit museums and cafes.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually warming up. The city starts to bloom, making it a picturesque time to visit.

April is generally mild and rainy. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, adding a touch of magic to the city.

May brings warmer temperatures and longer days. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and picnics in the park.

June is the start of summer, with plenty of sunshine. Enjoy the music festivals and open-air events.

July is the hottest month in Paris, with long, sunny days. It's a great time to visit landmarks and enjoy the summer festivities.

August is still hot, but less crowded as many locals go on vacation. Enjoy the open-air cinemas and music festivals.

September sees the start of autumn, with mild temperatures and beautiful fall colors. It's a great time for sightseeing and wine tasting.

October is cooler and can be rainy. Enjoy the fall foliage in the parks and the Nuit Blanche, a night-time arts festival.

November is chilly with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the Christmas lights.

December is cold and often rainy, but the city is beautifully lit up for Christmas. Enjoy the holiday markets and ice skating rinks.

Paris, France, is known for its temperate climate, which can vary throughout the year. It's crucial to pack accordingly to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Paris, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 64°F (8°C to 18°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but remember to carry a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

Summer (June to August) in Paris can be warm and sometimes hot, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C). It's the perfect time for picnics in parks or boat rides on the Seine. However, heatwaves can occur, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures drop to between 46°F and 64°F (8°C to 18°C). It's a great time to visit museums and galleries. Pack a mix of light and warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Winter (December to February) in Paris can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 33°F to 46°F (1°C to 8°C). Snow is rare but possible. Pack warm clothing, including a coat, scarf, gloves, and hat.

Regardless of the season, Paris can be rainy. An umbrella or a raincoat is always a good idea. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before you head out for the day.

Lastly, don't let the weather deter you from enjoying the city's charm. Paris is beautiful in all seasons, and there's always something to do, come rain or shine.

Cookie consent

2-Day Paris Adventure: Outdoor Activities and Nightlife with Friends

About Paris, France