Top things to do in Paris

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit due to mild weather and fewer tourists. However, summer offers longer days and a lively atmosphere, despite being more crowded.

Some must-visit attractions in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, and the Champs-Élysées with the Arc de Triomphe. Other highlights are the Palace of Versailles, Musée d'Orsay, and Fontainebleau Palace. You can also enjoy shows at Moulin Rouge and explore beautiful parks like Luxembourg Gardens.

Aim for Line 6 or Line 9 of the Paris Metro, which are the lines closest to the Eiffel Tower. Line 6 stops at "Bir-Hakeim" directly near the Eiffel Tower, and Line 9 stops at "Trocadéro," which offers a great view of the tower as you approach.

The best time to visit the Eiffel Tower is early in the morning at opening time or late in the evening to avoid the crowds. Additionally, visiting on a weekday can help you avoid the busiest times. If you're interested in views, a clear day is ideal, while night visits allow you to see the tower illuminated. Remember to book your tickets in advance to save time.

The best time to visit the Louvre Museum is on Wednesday and Friday nights when it's open late, or during mid-week mornings shortly after opening, to avoid the largest crowds.

You can try authentic French cuisine in traditional restaurants known as "bistros" and "brasseries" throughout Paris. Look for establishments with a "fait maison" sign, indicating that dishes are homemade. Popular areas include the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, and around Montmartre. For a gourmet experience, consider booking a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

To get around using the Paris Metro, consider a T+ ticket for single trips or a Navigo pass for unlimited travel. The T+ ticket costs around €1.90 for an adult and is also valid on buses, trams, and RER trains within central Paris. A Navigo week pass costs about €22.80 and offers unlimited travel within selected zones, including use on buses, trams, and RER trains. Prices are indicative and may vary; check current rates for accuracy.

Some off-the-beaten-path experiences in Paris include exploring the artistic alleys of Belleville, visiting the quirky Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Art Museum), relaxing in the hidden parks like Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, browsing the books at the historic Shakespeare and Company bookstore, discovering the ancient Arènes de Lutèce, an old Roman amphitheatre, or taking a stroll through the vibrant Rue Dénoyez, known for its street art.

You can book tickets to cabaret shows like the Moulin Rouge, on our website. It's advisable to book well in advance due to the popularity of the shows.

In Paris, you can find: Luxury Stores: On the Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, with boutiques like Chanel, Dior, and Hermès. Outlets: La Vallée Village, an open-air outlet mall that offers discounted luxury brands. Affordable Shopping Zones: Rue de Rivoli and the Marais for budget-friendly fashion, and the Saint-Ouen Flea Market for vintage finds.

The best way to experience Parisian culture is to engage in the local café scene, visit museums and art galleries, dine in traditional bistros, explore the various quartiers or neighborhoods on foot, and partake in local festivals and events. Additionally, attending performances and trying to speak some French with locals can enrich the cultural experience.

• To avoid tourist scams and pickpocketing in Paris, be vigilant and aware of common scams. Keep these tips in mind:
• Stay Alert in Crowded Places: Tourist hotspots, public transport, and crowded markets are pickpockets' favourite areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
• Secure Your Valuables: Use a money belt or a theft-proof backpack. Keep bags zipped and wear them in front of you in busy areas.
• Be Skeptical: If an offer or an approach by a stranger seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of unsolicited help or distractions.
• Know Common Scams: Familiarize yourself with scams such as the ring trick, fake petitions, and friendship bracelets. Firmly but politely decline any unexpected offers.
• Keep Documents Safe: Carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in a hotel safe.
• Avoid Flashy Displays: Wearing expensive jewellery or flashing large amounts of cash can make you a target.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams or theft, allowing you to enjoy all that Paris has to offer with greater peace of mind.

Understanding the weather in Paris is key to packing appropriately for your trip. Here's a brief guide through the seasons:

Spring (March to May): Paris in spring sees a gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F). It's a time of intermittent showers and blossoming gardens. Pack layers including a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes for wet streets, and a mix of light and medium-weight clothing.

Summer (June to August): Summers are warm and occasionally hot, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and can sometimes climb higher. Light clothing is essential, such as T-shirts, shorts, dresses, and a hat to shield you from the sun. Always carry a refillable water bottle and sunscreen. However, evenings can be cooler, so include a lightweight jacket or sweater.

Autumn (September to November): Fall brings a cool and crisp climate, with temperatures falling between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This is the time to enjoy the golden hues of Paris with a wardrobe consisting of long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, a warm jacket, and durable walking shoes. An umbrella and scarf might be handy for chilly or rainy days.

Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with averages hovering around 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). You'll need warm clothing - think coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. Waterproof boots or shoes with good traction are advisable for snowy or rainy conditions. Layers are still key, as indoor spaces can be well-heated.

Shops and boutiques in Paris generally open from 10 am to 7 pm, supermarkets from around 8 am to 10 pm, and restaurants serve lunch from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and dinner from 7 pm to 10:30 pm. These hours can vary, and it's not uncommon for shops to close on Sundays and Mondays.

The Paris Museum Pass can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple included museums and monuments during your stay in Paris. It offers free, direct access to over 50 museums and monuments in and around Paris. You can get a Paris Museum Pass on our website.

In Paris, greet with "bonjour" or "bonsoir" and always say "au revoir" when leaving. Dress smartly, speak quietly in public, attempt some French phrases, wait to be seated and keep your hands on the table at restaurants, tip for good service, queue politely, offer your seat on public transport, respect smoking bans, and ask permission before taking photos of people.

The currency in France is the Euro (€). You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices (bureaux de change), ATMs, as well as at airports and major train stations, although the best rates are usually found at banks and ATMs.

The title of the "best" observation deck in Paris depends on personal preferences and priorities. Here's a comparison of the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and Montparnasse Tower, including their prices:

Arc de Triomphe:

• Price: Generally more affordable than the Eiffel Tower and Montparnasse Tower.
• Views: Offers panoramic views of Paris, including the Champs-Élysées and iconic landmarks.
• Experience: A historical monument with a patriotic significance, and it's located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.

Eiffel Tower:

• Price: Typically more expensive than the Arc de Triomphe.
• Views: Provides stunning 360-degree views of Paris, including the Seine River and various neighbourhoods.
• Experience: World-famous and iconic, with options to dine at its restaurants.

Montparnasse Tower:

• Price: Prices may vary but often fall between the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower in terms of cost.
• Views: Offers unobstructed views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur.
• Experience: Known for its modern, skyscraper-style observation deck, which provides a different perspective of Paris.