PARIS TRAVEL GUIDE

PARIS TRAVEL GUIDE

Chantal Safi
 

PARIS.

The Fashion Capital of the World, The City of Love, and The City of Lights. Paris has a strong cultural identity and vibrant energy that does not go unnoticed. As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and with a plethora of museums, churches, shopping, cuisine and iconic landmarks, there is something for every visitor to experience.

Paris’s tree lined boulevards are synonymous with Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann, who redesigned this city in the early 19th Century. He was known as the controversial city planner who helped to create the monumental intersections, wide avenues, and uniformity in the city’s architecture that so many love today. 

ORIENTATION

With limited time and plenty of iconic monuments spread out over miles it's extremely important to understand the scale of Paris when planning your trip. I would recommend clustering your days based on neighborhoods referred to as an ‘Arrondissement’. The city is divided into multiple and very distinct zones with their own charm and character. The arrondissements spiral from the center, and are numbered 1-20. Most visitors will stay close to the city center. With only a few days, attempting to cover all of them would be difficult. I would recommend the few below and plan for future trips! There are plenty of things to see, so don't feel rushed. Stroll through the city and enjoy the beauty of Paris.

MUST SEE

  • RIVER SEINE 

Most every great city has a body of water, and Paris is no exception. The Seine is the essence of Paris and can be experienced in many ways. Walk along the riverbanks, or cruise at sunset. Try the famous Bateau Mouches or Bateaux Parisiens. Most boat rides will provide commentary and share the history of the river and the city. 

  • MUSÉE DU LOUVRE (1st Arrondissement) 

The Louvre- the most visited museum in the world, needs no introduction. With over 37,000 pieces of art, I recommend you plan to spend at least three hours minimum. If you have limited time, prioritize the big three, or most popular; the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Take in the striking glass Pyramide outside, designed by architect I.M. Pei. 

  • JARDIN DES TUILERIES (1st Arrondissement) 

This famed and beautiful park is one of Paris’s favorite green spaces. Laid out in the 17th century by André Le Nôtre, the gardens connect The Louvre and Place de la Concorde. On the west corner of the garden is Musee de l’Orangerie, which houses notable impressionist and post impressionist paintings, and showcases Claude Monet’s water lily series, Nympheas. 

  • PLACE VENDÔME (1st Arrondissement) 

Architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart designed a stunning example of classical French architecture and 18th century opulence. Today you can always find fashionable Parisians shopping or travelers checking in at the Ritz. The Vendôme column stands tall amongst the symmetrical perimeter of the plaza. 

  • CATHÉDRALE NOTRE-DAME (4th Arrondissement)   

Built in the Middle Ages, the Cathedral is a true Masterpiece of French Gothic Architecture and is a symbol of the heart of Paris. 

NOTE: The Church is currently closed, ever since the fire of 2019 that destroyed the 300-foot spire and much of the interiors. For curious tourists and architecture enthusiasts, walk the perimeter of the church to read about the ongoing restoration efforts. 

Walk around Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis. These two small islands are easily walkable and full of beautiful views. The Marche aux Fleurs is one of the few remaining flower markets, on Sundays listen to the colorful birds chirping. 

 

  • CENTRE POMPIDOU (4th Arrondissement)  

Part of The Marais neighborhood, this modern art museum was designed by world renowned Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. Immediately recognizable, the contemporary architecture celebrates the exposed structure, mechanical and electrical systems by color coding the building service systems. (Red: Elevators and Escalators/Vertical Transportation, Green: Water/Plumbing, Yellow: Electrical, Blue: HVAC).

  • THE LATIN QUARTER (5th Arrondissement) 

Positioned on the left bank, this neighborhood is full of energetic youth. The area is historically known for its universities; Collège de France and La Sorbonne college of the Université de Paris. Walk along the riverside and stop and explore the vendors selling books, artwork, and souvenirs called Les Bouquinistes, a quintessential feature of the Latin Quarter. Don’t forget to stop at the well-known English-language bookstore Shakespeare and Company and continue your tour down the winding narrow, cobblestone streets flanked with cafes, shops and student hangouts. 

  • ST GERMAIN DES PRÉS (6th Arrondissement) 

Walk the grand streets, and soak up the quintessential Parisian vibes. Stop at the Musée d'Orsay to see the famous works of Monet, Degas or Renoir. Check out the notable architecture (and fine art) school- École des Beaux Arts. Stop at the famous Parisian cafes Les Deux Magots or Cafe de Flore. These cafes are known for the famous writers, philosophers and painters that used to frequent. Grab a seat for some great people-watching. 

  • LE JARDIN DU LUXEMBOURG (6th Arrondissement) 

One of the most popular parks in Paris, this classic French garden is full of perfectly trimmed trees and hedges, immaculate lawns and spaced out chairs and benches for admiring the garden’s beauty. This is a must stop if weather permits. Inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, this Parisian park is now situated in the heart of the Left Bank.  

  • EIFFEL TOWER (7th Arrondissement) 

With over 250 million visitors since it was created, nothing quite compares to this nation’s architectural symbol. Admired around the world,  the iron lady was once considered an ‘iron-latticed monstrosity’ back during the Paris Exposition of 1889. The iconic Eiffel Tower was designed by French civil engineer Gustave Eiffel, and was not intended to last. However, the iron lace work was embraced by the city, and still remains today. Sit out in the lawn and enjoy its stature. Whether it's daytime charm or the midnight illuminated sparkles, it is magic.  

Fun Facts: It has over 2,500,000 rivets, and it is made of puddled iron (so it oxidizes less.) It has 336 projectors and 20,000 bulbs for sparkling. It sparkles on the hour for 5 minutes and “falls asleep” at 1AM. 

  • PLACE DE LA CONCORDE

One of the largest squares in Paris with a dark past. Today, it is adorned by a giant Egyptian obelisk from Luxor, and two large ornamental fountains. 

  • AVENUE DES CHAMPS-ELYSÉES (8th Arrondissement) 

The world- famous tree-lined avenue with cafes, restaurants and shopping runs from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Stroll along the avenue from end to end. 

  • ARC DE TRIOMPHE (8th Arrondissement) 

This iconic arch is the center of Place Charles de Gaulle (L’Etoile or Star). It is the center of the twelve radiating avenues, and was commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate France’s military and cultural achievements. Architect Jean Chalgrins vision was ultimately completed in 1836. Today, it is the Parisian point for celebrations such as New Year's Eve!

  • OPÉRA NATIONAL DE PARIS GARNIER (9th Arrondissement) 

This masterpiece was designed by French Architect Charles Garnier for Napoleon III. Built during 1862-75, the opera continues to be one of the most visited sites in Paris. The architect designed every part of the building to contribute to the visitor experience and enhance the theatrics of a night out at the opera. Baroque lavishness is expressed by gilded ornamentation and gold mosaics. The Grand Staircase is not to be missed. If you don't have time to go in, you can always listen to a musician playing music outside, and admire from the exterior. 

  • GALERIES LAFAYETTE (9th Arrondissement)  

If you are a serious shopper or serious architecture enthusiast, stop by the city's famous grand department store. Note the Art Nouveau glass dome or coupole. Head to the rooftop to take in a beautiful panoramic view of the city, free of charge. 

  • MONTMARTRE (18th Arrondissement) 

Devote some time to wander this beautiful neighborhood. This part of the city escaped the Haussmann demolition plan, and still has winding narrow streets. Catch a glimpse of a windmill, or the famous Moulin Rouge. I recommend spending some time wandering the streets. Make sure to stop at Place du Tertre, this artist's square right next to the Sacré-Cœur is a classic stop to pick up your souvenir painting of Paris. 

  • BASILIQUE DU SACRÉ-COEUR (18th Arrondissement) 

Commissioned in 1873, architect Paul Abadie pulled inspiration from Byzantine and Romanesque styles. Completed in 1914 the 272(ish) ft high basilica sits on the top of the hill of Montmartre, and provides one of the best views of Paris- being the second highest point in the city.  Pro Tip: If you don't want to walk up the steep hill, take the funicular! 


BEYOND THE CITY: PALACE OF VERSAILLES

Explore the stunning palace and famed gardens just outside of Paris.  

FOOD & DRINK: PARISIAN CUISINE 

Cafes are a way of life in Paris, and for any visitor something to fully embrace. Sit outside with a drink of choice, and enjoy watching the ‘world go by.’ 

When we saw an open table outside at a café, we sat down, and gave a nod to the waiter to indicate that we were new to the restaurant and we were ready to order! If you don't see a spot, or don’t feel comfortable with that method, just wait to speak to the waiter, and he/she will let you know what's available. Just don't forget to try and speak your best French, as this gesture is very important. 

Pro Tip: Download the Google Translate App. It is really important to have a quick reference if you are unfamiliar with the language. This app has offline capabilities if you download the French language prior to your trip! 

  • Baguettes are a way of life, and are available at any neighborhood boulangerie. It's 100% acceptable to walk around the city with a baguette for a snack. I can't tell you just how many people you will see just casually walking with a baguette down the street. 

  • Tipping is typically included with the food’s price, if the service is exceptional you could leave 5%-10%. 

  • I recommend downloading the app “TheFork” for restaurants, and in-app table reservations.

  • Croissants & Pain au Chocolat are a perfect Petit déjeuner and way to start your day. 

  • Eat slowly and enjoy your time. One meal I had recently in Paris took around 3 hours!! 

  • I love a little bubbly water, and don't mind paying extra, but if you are looking for Tap Water, order “une carafe d’eau”.

  • Available in any of the city’s many patisseries, don’t forget to try French Macarons, Madeleines, or Eclairs (or all three!)  

SLEEP

Paris does not have a shortage of incredible hotels, with plenty of hotels in all price ranges you are guaranteed to enjoy your experience. (Most hotels offer modern amenities like wi-fi and air-conditioning, just expect smaller square footage). Below are the places I have stayed and loved. 


I also have my eye on Hotel St. Honore for my next trip… the beautiful art nouveau façade caught my eye during my list visit to the city.

TRANSPORTATION

TAXIS

There are several taxi companies in Paris, with pick up spots/taxi stands. Your hotel or restaurant will call you a taxi, but know that there will be a “reservation fee” added to your ride charge of around 4-7 euros. Uber also operates in Paris, but I would not recommend it. We had to cancel over 3 trips, and just was not as reliable as it is in the United States. Download the app G7 for ordering taxis yourself. 

METRO

The Paris Metro is a very efficient way to get around. Don't forget to download the Paris Metro map or CityMapper for route planning and updates. Service runs from 5:30AM - 1or 2AM depending on the day of week. Always watch out for pickpockets. 

WALK

Paris is a very walkable city with each Arrondissement offering up a different charm. I would typically recommend roaming, but with a lot of area to cover, I suggest more curated walks to see the best the city has to offer. I actually recommend getting National Geographic’s book, Walking Paris: The Best of the City: A Step-by-Step Guide. I loved using it on my most recent trip to make sure we were getting the most out of our daily step goal. 

ON MY NEXT VISIT 

  • Pere Lachaise Cemetery

  • Marche aux Puces St-Ouen

  • Musee Rodin

  • Musee Picasso

  • Musee D’Orsay

  • Bar Hemingway 

  • Sainte-Chapelle

  • Marche des Enfants Rouge

  • Arenes de Lutece

  • Bibliothèque Nationale de France

  • Cite de la Mode et du Design

  • Le Perchoir

  • La Bellevilloise

  • Coulee Verte

  • Parc La Villette

  • Bois de Vincennes

  • Philharmonie de Paris (Architect: Jean Nouvel)

  • Grande Arche de la Defense

  • Jardin du Palais Royal

 
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