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.

An art gallery of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings located in the west corner of the Tuileries Gardens, most famous for being the permanent home for eight Water Lilies murals by Claude Monet.

The Musée de l'Orangerie is a museum in Paris that houses a collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. The museum is located in the Tuileries Gardens, in the heart of Paris, and is home to a number of iconic works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Picasso. /n The museum's most famous exhibit is Monet's Water Lilies, a series of large-scale paintings that were created in the artist's garden in Giverny. The museum also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by a variety of artists. Whether you're an art lover or simply interested in exploring Paris's cultural scene, the Musée de l'Orangerie is a must-visit destination.

A museum housing impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

The Tuileries Garden is a public garden located between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. Created by Catherine de' Medici as the garden of the Tuileries Palace in 1564, it was first opened to the public in 1667 and became a public park after the French Revolution.

The Tuileries Garden is a true gem in the heart of Paris. Once the garden of the Tuileries Palace, it is now a public park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The garden is beautifully landscaped with a variety of trees, flowers, and sculptures, and it offers stunning views of the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. /n The garden is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Musée de l'Orangerie, which houses a collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, the Tuileries Garden has something to offer. It's a must-visit destination when in Paris.

The Tuileries Garden is a historic park in the heart of Paris, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Known as the world's most beautiful avenue, the Champs-Élysées is a must-visit for any tourist in Paris. It is home to a mix of high-end stores, theatres, cafes, and is the location of the annual Bastille Day military parade.

Champs-Élysées, often described as 'the world's most beautiful avenue', is a must-visit for any tourist in Paris. Lined with luxury shops, cafes, and theaters, it offers a unique blend of shopping and cultural experience. /n The avenue stretches from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, offering a stunning view of the city's landmarks. It's also the location of the annual Bastille Day military parade, and the finish line of the Tour de France. Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, or simply taking in the sights, Champs-Élysées has something for everyone.

Champs-Élysées is a famous avenue in Paris, known for its luxury shops and cafes.

A museum that was once the workshop of the sculptor Auguste Rodin, housing the largest collection of the sculptor's works.

The Musée Rodin is a museum in Paris dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin. The museum is located in the Hotel Biron, a beautiful 18th-century mansion where Rodin lived and worked. The museum's collections include over 6,000 sculptures and 7,000 works of art on paper, as well as a variety of other artifacts related to the artist's life and work. /n The museum's gardens are also a highlight, featuring a number of Rodin's most famous sculptures, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Whether you're an art lover or simply interested in exploring Paris's cultural scene, the Musée Rodin is a must-visit destination.

A museum dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Trocadéro Gardens, located in Paris, France, is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its well-manicured gardens and impressive fountains.

Trocadéro Gardens, located in Paris, France, is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its well-manicured gardens and impressive fountains. The park is situated on the hill of Chaillot, and it's a perfect spot to take a break from the bustling city and enjoy some peace and quiet. /n The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with a variety of plants and flowers that add a touch of color to the surroundings. The fountains are a major attraction, with their impressive display of water and light. There are also several statues and sculptures scattered throughout the park, adding an artistic touch to the scenery. The park is also home to the Palais de Chaillot, which houses several museums. /n The Trocadéro Gardens are not just a place to relax, but also a vantage point that offers one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower. The view from the top of the hill is truly breathtaking, with the Eiffel Tower standing tall against the backdrop of the Parisian skyline. It's a sight that is sure to leave you in awe. The gardens are also a popular spot for picnics, with many visitors bringing their own food to enjoy a meal with a view. /n Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Trocadéro Gardens are a must-visit. With its beautiful scenery, impressive fountains, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, it's a place that captures the charm and elegance of Paris in a unique way.

Trocadéro Gardens is a beautiful park offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

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

Musée de l'Orangerie

Tuileries Garden

Start your day at the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top. Don't forget to take family photos!

Have a picnic lunch at the Champ de Mars, the large public greenspace right by the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy the view of the tower while you eat.

Visit the Musée de l'Orangerie, home to Monet's Water Lilies and other impressionist and post-impressionist works.

Enjoy a traditional French dinner in a restaurant in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.

Experience the Christmas market at the Tuileries Garden. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, food stalls, and Christmas lights.

Eiffel Tower and Christmas Market at Tuileries Garden

Louvre Museum

Marais

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Seine River

Visit the Louvre Museum, one of the world's largest and most visited museums. Don't miss the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Have lunch in a café in the Marais district, known for its historic and architectural beauty.

Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and its surroundings. Enjoy the stunning architecture and the view from the top.

Have dinner in a restaurant in the Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and student life.

Enjoy a boat cruise on the Seine River. See the city's landmarks beautifully lit up against the night sky.

Louvre Museum and Seine River Cruise

Palace of Versailles

Montmartre

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Visit the Palace of Versailles. Explore the stunning palace, gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors.

Have lunch in a restaurant in Versailles. Enjoy the local cuisine.

Continue exploring the Palace of Versailles. Don't miss the Grand Trianon and Marie-Antoinette's Estate.

Have dinner in a restaurant in Montmartre, known for its bohemian atmosphere and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Visit the Christmas market at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the stunning view of the city.

Palace of Versailles and Christmas Market at Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Musée d'Orsay

Centre Pompidou

Champs-Élysées

Visit the Musée d'Orsay, home to many masterpieces from artists like Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.

Have lunch in a café in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, known for its literary history.

Visit the Centre Pompidou, a modern art museum with works from artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Pollock.

Have dinner in a restaurant in the Marais district, known for its trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.

Visit the Christmas market at the Champs-Élysées. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, food stalls, and Christmas lights.

Musée d'Orsay and Christmas Market at Champs-Élysées

Musée Rodin

Trocadéro Gardens

Visit the Montmartre district. Explore the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Place du Tertre, known for its artists and portraitists.

Have lunch in a café in Montmartre. Enjoy the bohemian atmosphere and the view of the city.

Visit the Musée Rodin, home to many works by the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Have dinner in a restaurant in the Latin Quarter. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the local cuisine.

End your trip with a visit to the Christmas market at the Trocadéro Gardens. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, food stalls, and Christmas lights.

Montmartre and Christmas Market at Trocadéro Gardens

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

Decorations on a Parisian Christmas market

Avenue des Champs-Elysees leading up to the Grande Roue

Arc de Triomphe and Christmas Illuminations on Champs Elysees

Christmas market on the Champs Elysees in at night

Cafe terrace at evening during winter holidays

Celebrating the New Year in Paris Eiffel tower with fireworks

The Christmas tree at Galleries Lafayette

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.

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.

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5-Day Christmas Holiday Family Itinerary in Paris

About Paris, France