Paris Travel Guide 2025

Founded more than 2,000 years ago, Paris has long been considered the epicenter of art, culture and romance in Europe. Today, more than 50 million people each year visit the City of Lights, in hopes of experiencing the luxury of an afternoon at a French café or the breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower glittering against the night sky.

Whether you are about to embark on your first trip to Paris or you are traveling to the city for your annual getaway, you will find that our guide to Paris gives you all of the information and insight that you need in order to have an unforgettable visit to one of the most famous cities in the world.

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As the capital city of France, Paris is a sprawling city with 20 distinct neighborhoods — or arrondissements, as the Parisians call them. In order to get the full experience of the City of Lights, you will want to know how to easily get around the city and experience the culture of each section of the city.

These are the best ways to get around Paris.

Considered by many to be the best subway system in Europe, the Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around the city whether it's your first visit to Paris or your tenth. Known by the locals as Le Métro, this subway system has an abundance of stations, allowing you to easily get on a train and quickly arrive at your destination. A single ticket on the Metro is a couple euros, but you may find that buying a bulk ticket pass or a Navigo Easy Pass is more cost-effective if you plan to use the Metro exclusively during your trip to Paris.

The Paris Metro is a fairly intuitive system that is easy for most to navigate. Free maps are available at stations and at many hotels throughout the city, and you can also download the Bonjour RATP mobile app for a digital guide.

For tourists who want to relax in splendor as they are conveniently transported to the most iconic sights in Paris, the Batobus Paris is one of the best ways to get around. This hop-on, hop-off tour on the Seine River allows you to easily visit some of the city's top attractions, including Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Musée d'Orsay and Les Invalides.

Paris was designed with a leisurely stroll in mind. When the city was constructed, the concept of cars and mass public transit did not exist. You either rode down the unpaved streets in a carriage, or you walked.

Today, walking continues to be one of the best ways to get around the city. Not only is it affordable and allows you to enjoy an active lifestyle while you travel, walking throughout the streets of Paris truly allows you to soak up the atmosphere of the city and the leisurely pace that it is known for. You don't need to power walk along the streets like you might have to in New York City. Rather, you can take in the sights and sounds of the city on your journey through the City of Lights.

Biking is a popular activity in Paris, with locals and tourists alike finding it to be one of the best ways to navigate the city's streets. These are some of the best ways to bike in Paris.

One of the best ways to learn more about biking in Paris is to visit one of the city's bike cafés. This innovative concept blends together the casual comfort of a coffee shop with the information of a tourist office. At a bike café, you can grab a meal, talk with bicycling enthusiasts and even rent equipment for your stay in Paris.

Ridesharing is an option in Paris, though most locals will tell you to stick with the Metro. Rideshares can be particularly costly in the city, especially during peak hours, and it isn't the most efficient way to get around.

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Anytime you have the opportunity to visit Paris is the best time, but there are some times of the year that are better than others. The summer season, which includes the months of June, July and August, is the peak travel season. The weather is wonderful, but the tourist crowds are exceptional. Most travel experts note that you can avoid the crowds by visiting Paris in the early spring months — such as April in May — or at the start of the fall, in September and October. No matter when you choose to visit Paris, though, you are sure to be swept up in the glamor and romance of the city.

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Paris is a city filled with history, charm, culture, art and beauty — making it hard to decide which attractions to prioritize during your visit. Whether you are planning to visit Paris for the day, or you have more than a week to explore the city, you will find that these are the top things to do in Paris for any type of traveler.

No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Easily the most iconic landmark in Paris, the Eiffel Tower was built between 1887 and 1889 as a gateway to the Paris Exposition of 1889. When compared to the history of the city — which spans thousands of years — the Eiffel Tower is one of its newest attractions. However, it is now the symbol of Paris, and it is an architectural marvel that cannot be missed.

However, if you are hoping to visit the Eiffel Tower, you should make a reservation ahead of time. You can book your tickets to the Eiffel Tower two months in advance, and it's highly recommended that you book as early as possible if you are visiting during peak times.

The Eiffel Tower is open to visitors until 11 p.m. at night, and travel experts as well as locals highly recommend visiting the famous tower during the evening hours. The golden light of the sunset makes the Eiffel Tower particularly beautiful, and traveling to the top after dark gives you an unbelievably breathtaking view of the city. By the time you arrive back on the ground, the tower will be sparkling in all of its glory, giving you yet another unforgettable glimpse of the most iconic sight in Paris.

Not only is the Louvre one of the most famous attractions in Paris, it is also the largest museum in the world. Visiting the Louvre is an essential part of any trip to Paris, but first-time visitors will be surprised at how overwhelming this massive museum can be. Spanning more than 650,000 square feet, you could spend hours upon hours winding your way through the museum, which has more than 400 rooms. In order to avoid missing the most iconic masterpieces on display, it's highly recommended that you book a guided tour of the Louvre in advance.

Note that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so you will want to plan accordingly. There are extended evening hours on Wednesdays and Fridays for those who want to fit in a visit after dinner.

Known as a haven for artists of all styles and genres, Montmartre is a charming village situated in the heart of Paris. The most famous attraction in Montmartre is Sacré Couer, the pristine white basilica that seems to look over the city with a watchful eye. While the basilica is certainly a highlight of any visit to Montmartre, you can easily spend an entire day soaking up the unique and vibrant atmosphere of this village. On any given day, you can explore Montmartre and visit the art galleries and museums, have your own portrait drawn, or enjoy a glass of wine at a local café as you watch the world go by around you.

With the Arc de Triomphe serving as an entrance to one of the most cosmopolitan streets in the world, it's hard not to be swept up in the romance and culture of Paris when you walk down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Along this famed street, you will find boutiques from some of the world's most iconic fashion designers as well as some of the most exquisite — and exclusive — fine dining experiences in Paris. This tree-lined street is perfectly manicured, giving you the picturesque view of Paris that you had always imagined. For a truly intimate experience on the Champs-Élysées, plan your visit for the first Sunday of the month, when cars are banned from the avenue and pedestrians have free rein to stroll at their leisure.

First designed and developed in the early 17th century, the Luxembourg Gardens — known locally as the Jardin du Luxembourg — is a natural escape in the heart of the city. As you stroll throughout the gardens, you will see that art is effortlessly woven into the botanical designs. There are more than 100 statues to discover, split between the English- and French-style gardens. An afternoon spent in the Luxembourg Gardens allows you to feel like an aristocrat in your own right, who simply has all the time and inclination needed to remain present in the moment and soak up the surrounding beauty.

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Where you choose to stay during your trip to Paris can have a significant impact on your overall experience. By prioritizing authenticity and local culture, you can enjoy a hotel that offers an immersive and enlightening experience.

These are some of the best places to stay in Paris.

Paying homage to Napoleon Bonaparte's first wife, Hotel de JoBo offers an elegant flair that blends modernity with the rich history of the French aristocracy. This hotel is known for its romantic ambience. The rooms feature intricate wallpapers and delicate details, designed to be a luxurious retreat for couples after a day of sightseeing in Paris.

For a boutique hotel in the heart of Paris's Latin Quarter neighborhood, consider booking a room at Eugenie. The 28-room hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodations and is nearby several Paris attractions including the Fontaine Saint-Michel and the Luxembourg Gardens.

Offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Turenne Le Marais is a trendy hotel in the 4th arrondissement that is perfect for busy travelers, families with children and couples seeking romance. Its convenient location also makes it an excellent hotel for business travelers, who appreciate the extra amenities that are available for them. If you are looking for a comfortable hotel with an affordable price point in the center of the city, then this is one of your best options.

The Hotel Albe Saint Michel is situated on the Left Bank of the Seine River, giving travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the true atmosphere of the City of Lights. Its chic décor combined with its diverse range of room styles and designs makes this the perfect hotel for solo travelers, friends and travel partners. Guests appreciate the fact that the hotel is located in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, giving them the chance to live like locals during their time in Paris.

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You simply cannot go to Paris only to see the sights — you have to sample the flavor of this incredible city, which is known for its relaxed cafés and intimate fine dining experiences.

Whether you are searching for a romantic place to celebrate a milestone moment or an authentic French café where you can indulge in traditional cuisine, you will find that these are some of the best places to eat in Paris.

Located on the Île Saint-Louis, Le Bossu is a quaint, unassuming French restaurant that would be easy to miss if you didn't know what you were looking for. It is known as one of the best hidden gems in Paris, offering traditional French cuisine in a modern setting with hints of romance tucked into every detail. You will often find locals dining at this neighborhood bistro, so tourists who are in search of an authentic experience will love this restaurant.

When it comes to dining at a true Parisian brasserie, there's no better experience than the one offered at Au Pied de Cochon. Conveniently located near the Louvre Museum, this restaurant is beloved by tourists and locals alike. In fact, it has a legendary reputation in the city, largely because it was the first restaurant in the city to offer continuous 24-hour service. Since 1947, guests have been dining on its iconic terrace, where they can savor oysters, seafood and other authentic French delicacies.

Dining in Paris is about more than nourishing yourself with a meal — it's about savoring the experience and relaxing in the splendor of the city. There is truly no better place to absorb the pulse of Paris than Le Choupinet, a brasserie that is located in the heart of the 6th arrondissement and features terrace views of the Luxembourg Gardens. Known for its chic atmosphere and charming terrace, Le Choupinet offers diners a menu defined by traditional French items, giving you the chance to sip, savor and experience the flavor of the city.

From its sophisticated indoor dining room to its elegant outdoor terrace, Chez Edouard is one of the most stylish dining experiences in Paris. This restaurant is an ideal option if you are looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or simply soak up the romance of the city. It is known as a classic French restaurant, and its menu is anchored by its steak and seafood selections.

For a minimalist experience in the heart of Paris, Tracé offers diners the chance to ignore the outside world as they soak up the flavor of modern French cuisine. This is truly a French dining experience, because you will be able to select from a 7-course or 5-course tasting menu, allowing you to relax in splendor as each new course is artfully presented before you. Reservations are recommended, and diners are encouraged to abide by a casual-chic dress code.

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While you may only be in Paris for a moment, the photos that you take will become cherished souvenirs of the memories you made in the world's most romantic city and a top place to visit in Europe. These are the best Paris photo spots to get those Instagram-worthy shots.

Head to the Esplanade de Trocadéro in order to get those uninterrupted Eiffel Tower pictures. You could do an entire photo shoot here!
Stroll down the Rue de l’Université — which is the street right next to the Eiffel Tower — to snap some casual photos of the Eiffel Tower in the background of this charming French street. The architecture of the buildings on the street combined with the floral arrangements that line the walkways make this one of the best places to frame a picture of the Eiffel Tower.
Visit the Pont Alexandre III in order to take photos of one of the most ornate bridges in the city. From the right angle, you can also capture the Eiffel Tower in the background.

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While it would be easy to spend all of your time in France inside the Paris city limits, there are also several day trips from Paris that are worth considering for your trip.

These are some convenient destinations that will add a dose of fun and culture to your trip to Paris.

Located just an hour outside the city, the Palace of Versailles is a must-do while you are in Paris. Transformed from a country hunting lodge to one of the grandest palaces in Europe by King Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles represents the opulence that defined the French monarchy in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Today, you can take a guided tour with a coach transfer from Paris, allowing you to easily experience the magnificence of this iconic French landmark. As part of the tour, you will be able to explore the Grand Apartments, the State Rooms and, of course, the Hall of Mirrors. You also have the option to stroll through the Gardens of Versailles.

Famously known as Europe's largest theme park, Disneyland Paris is a popular day trip for families with young children who are visiting France. Disneyland Paris consists of two theme parks, the Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, and visitors will find one-of-a-kind attractions at these parks as well as iconic Disney experiences. With the magnificent Sleeping Beauty Castle defining the skyline in this magical theme park, you are sure to enjoy the wonder of Disney as well as the elegance of France during this exciting Paris day trip.

This tiny French village can be discovered just north of Normandy. It may seem like any other countryside village, but this iconic destination was actually home to the famed French impressionist painter Claude Monet. Visitors are able to tour Monet's home and his stunning gardens, which inspired some of his masterpieces, including his water lilies series.

If you have come all the way to Paris, you cannot miss out on the experience of sipping champagne directly from the Champagne Region. In Reims, you can take tours to local vineyards in order to sip champagne and learn more about the production process. It's easily one of the best day trips from Paris.

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In reality, you don't have to spend a fortune in order to experience Paris. These budget-friendly tips can help you save money while making the most of your time in Paris.

Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Paris trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today who can help you plan a trip to Paris, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.