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.

A museum housed in a former railway station, known for its extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces.

Musée d'Orsay is a museum in Paris, located on the left bank of the Seine. It is housed in the former Gare d'Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built between 1898 and 1900. /n The museum holds mainly French art dating from 1848 to 1914, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography.

Musée d'Orsay is a museum in Paris, located on the left bank of the Seine.

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.

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.

The Palace of Versailles is a royal château in Versailles, now a wealthy suburb of Paris. The palace is an architectural masterpiece and includes countless works of art. It is surrounded by equally impressive gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre.

The Palace of Versailles is a royal château in Versailles, in the Île-de-France region of France. It is now an important tourist attraction and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful gardens and ornate interiors. /n The palace is an absolute architectural masterpiece, with rooms filled with stunning art, chandeliers and décor from the 17th century.

The Palace of Versailles is a royal château in Versailles, in the Île-de-France region of France.

The Gardens of Versailles are a key part of the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They are renowned for their geometrically aligned terraces, fountains, and groves.

The Gardens of Versailles are a masterpiece of French garden design. /n Covering over 800 hectares, the gardens are a grand display of symmetry and order, a hallmark of the French formal garden style. They feature a variety of elements, including ornamental basins, fountains, parterres, and groves, all meticulously arranged in geometric patterns. The gardens also boast a large collection of outdoor sculptures, which add to their artistic appeal. /n The Gardens of Versailles are not just a beautiful green space, but a cultural landmark. They are a testament to the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles and the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. A visit to the gardens offers a glimpse into the history and culture of France, making it a must-see for any visitor to the country.

The expansive and beautifully landscaped gardens of the Palace of Versailles.

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.

The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in Paris, France. The original house, which burned down in 1915, was co-founded in 1889 by Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller, who also owned the Paris Olympia. Close to Montmartre in the Paris district of Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy in the 18th arrondissement, it is marked by the red windmill on its roof.

Moulin Rouge, located in the heart of the lively Montmartre district, is a world-renowned cabaret and theater. Known for its vibrant shows featuring talented dancers, it's a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Parisian nightlife. /n The venue's history dates back to 1889, when it was founded by Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller. Since then, it has become a symbol of the bohemian spirit of Montmartre and has been immortalized in various forms of media, including the famous 2001 film of the same name. /n Today, visitors to the Moulin Rouge can enjoy a variety of shows, including the current revue, 'Féerie,' which features a troupe of 80 artists, including 60 Doriss Girls, recruited worldwide. The show includes traditional cancan dancing, as well as other performances set to original music. In addition to the performances, guests can also opt for dinner and a show, with a menu that includes traditional French cuisine. /n The Moulin Rouge is not just a venue for entertainment, but a piece of Parisian history that continues to add to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Whether you're a fan of dance, history, or simply looking for a memorable night out, a visit to the Moulin Rouge is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Paris.

Moulin Rouge is a world-renowned cabaret and theater, known for its vibrant shows.

A complex building in the Beaubourg area of the 4th arrondissement of Paris, near Les Halles, rue Montorgueil, and the Marais. It houses the Public Information Library and the Museum of Modern Art.

Centre Pompidou is a complex building in the Beaubourg area of the 4th arrondissement of Paris. It houses the Public Information Library and the Museum of Modern Art. /n The Centre Pompidou has had over 180 million visitors since 1977 and more than 5,209,678 visitors in 2013.

Centre Pompidou is a complex building in the Beaubourg area of the 4th arrondissement of 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.

Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic chapel in Paris, famous for its stunning stained glass windows. It's a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and a significant religious site.

Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most beautiful religious sites in Paris. /n Built in the 13th century, the chapel is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. It features a slender structure, a delicate spire, and an exquisite facade adorned with statues of apostles and prophets. However, the highlight of Sainte-Chapelle is its interior, which is home to some of the most magnificent stained glass windows in the world. The windows depict biblical scenes in vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing light effect. /n Sainte-Chapelle is not just a place of worship, but a work of art. It is a testament to the skill and creativity of medieval craftsmen, and a symbol of the spiritual and political aspirations of King Louis IX, who commissioned it. A visit to Sainte-Chapelle is a journey into the past, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of medieval France.

A stunning Gothic chapel known for its magnificent stained glass windows.

The Panthéon is a prominent monument in Paris, serving as a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens. Its architecture and history make it a significant cultural site.

The Panthéon is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. /n Located in the Latin Quarter, the monument is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. It features a large dome, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, and a facade adorned with Corinthian columns. Inside, the Panthéon houses the tombs of many distinguished French citizens, including Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. /n The Panthéon is not just a mausoleum, but a symbol of the French Republic. It embodies the nation's values of liberty, equality, and fraternity, and serves as a reminder of the contributions of its honorees to French culture and history. A visit to the Panthéon offers a unique cultural experience, providing insight into the national identity of France.

A neoclassical monument in the Latin Quarter that serves as a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens.

The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market is a beloved annual event in Paris. It transforms the famous avenue into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of stalls selling crafts, food, and holiday gifts.

The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone in Paris during the holiday season. /n The market stretches along the iconic Champs-Élysées, from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. With over 200 chalets, visitors can browse a wide range of products, from traditional Christmas decorations and handmade crafts to gourmet food and drink. The market also features a number of attractions, including a giant ice rink and a Ferris wheel, providing fun for the whole family. /n In addition to shopping, the market offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can sample traditional French holiday treats, enjoy live music performances, and soak up the festive atmosphere. The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market is not just a shopping destination, but a celebration of the holiday season in Paris.

A festive market held annually on the iconic Champs-Élysées.

La Défense Christmas Market is a popular holiday event in Paris. It features a wide range of stalls selling festive goods and is known for its modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

La Défense Christmas Market is a highlight of the holiday season in Paris. /n Located in the heart of the city's modern business district, the market offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It features over 350 chalets, where visitors can find a variety of goods, from handmade crafts and Christmas decorations to gourmet food and drink. The market also hosts a number of events and activities, including live music performances and workshops, adding to its festive atmosphere. /n Despite its location in a modern, high-rise district, La Défense Christmas Market retains a traditional charm. The chalets are decorated with twinkling lights and garlands, creating a warm and welcoming environment. The market offers a unique shopping experience, allowing visitors to find unique gifts while enjoying the holiday spirit of Paris.

A vibrant Christmas market located in the modern district of La Défense.

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

Musée d'Orsay

Start your day at the iconic Eiffel Tower. Enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top. Don't forget to take some memorable photos.

Have lunch at a nearby French bistro. Try some traditional French dishes like coq au vin or bouillabaisse.

Visit the Musée d'Orsay, home to many works from the most remarkable artists of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant serving French cuisine.

Take a stroll along the Seine River and enjoy the beautifully lit cityscape.

Eiffel Tower and Musée d'Orsay

Louvre Museum

Notre-Dame Cathedral

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

Have lunch at a local café near the Louvre Museum.

Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture.

Dine at a nearby restaurant offering a variety of French dishes.

Experience the Christmas market at Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world.

Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Champs-Élysées Christmas Market

Palace of Versailles

Gardens of Versailles

Montmartre

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Moulin Rouge

Visit the Palace of Versailles, a royal château in Versailles in the Île-de-France region of France.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Gardens of Versailles.

Explore the Montmartre district, known for its bohemian past and the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Have dinner at a local restaurant in Montmartre.

Watch a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge.

Palace of Versailles, Montmartre and Moulin Rouge

Centre Pompidou

Marais

Visit the Centre Pompidou, a complex building in the Beaubourg area of the 4th arrondissement of Paris.

Have lunch at a local café near the Centre Pompidou.

Explore the Marais district, one of the oldest and most historic parts of Paris.

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant in the Marais district.

Visit the Christmas market at La Défense, the major business district of Paris.

Centre Pompidou, Marais and La Défense Christmas Market

Sainte-Chapelle

Panthéon

Visit the Sainte-Chapelle, a royal chapel in the Gothic style.

Have lunch at a local café near the Sainte-Chapelle.

Visit the Panthéon, a building in the Latin Quarter in Paris.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant near the Panthéon.

Take a final stroll along the Seine River and enjoy the beautifully lit cityscape.

Sainte-Chapelle, Panthéon and Farewell Stroll along the Seine River

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

The Christmas tree at Galleries Lafayette

Avenue des Champs-Elysees leading up to the Grande Roue

Cafe terrace at evening during winter holidays

Christmas market on the Champs Elysees in at night

Celebrating the New Year in Paris Eiffel tower with fireworks

Arc de Triomphe and Christmas Illuminations on Champs Elysees

Decorations on a Parisian Christmas market

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

5-Day Magical Christmas Holiday Experience in Paris

About Paris, France