Paris is celebrated around the world as a destination for culture, leisure, history, and romance. If you're planning a trip to this amazing locale, you'll want to pack your itinerary full of fun activities and make the most of every moment.
The problem is that Paris is so big and filled with attractions, you need a smart approach to be efficient with your time and travel. That's why we've put together this jet-setter's guide to Paris - there's not a minute to waste!
This guide will cover everything from food and fun to museums and more. Let's get started.
Pick a Starting Point
Before you touch down in Paris, you want to choose a home base. The capital area is oval-shaped and just over 33 square miles in size, so you can pick virtually any spot within the city limits and gain easy access to key destinations with ease.
A leisurely walk is the best way to navigate Paris, especially in warmer months, but there is also a comprehensive transit system and plenty of taxis and rideshares to supplement your immediate travel needs. Boats also take passengers along the Seine River during the day.
Typically, you'll spend more money for lodging near high-traffic areas like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. The good news is that there is so much to explore between these tourist spots, and far more affordable options can be found just a short while away.
List Your Main Goals
Unless you can set aside weeks or months to explore Paris in full, you're going to need to make some compromises when forming a game plan. That's just part of the jet-setter lifestyle, but don't worry, you can accomplish a lot with the right strategy.
History and architecture buffs will want to see every cathedral and monument, while art lovers will be eager to see the many museums and galleries in the city.
Rather than jam-packing a dozen different to-do's in a single day, list out two or three main goals per day and give yourself a more leisurely pace. That way, you'll leave plenty of time left over to meander and enjoy the scenery - plus stop for coffee and croissants to refuel.
Get Some Time Outdoors
Winters can be somewhat harsh in Paris, but at any other time of year, you owe it to yourself to enjoy the open air of this world-class city.
It's no coincidence that some of the best attractions are best experienced in nice weather, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Elysee Palace, and the underrated Pantheon monument.
The parks and walking trails throughout Paris are also hidden gems, such as the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Jardin des Plantes. Besides, you'll want to put in some miles on foot so that you can work up a healthy appetite to indulge when it's time to eat some rich French food.
Just be sure to travel light when embarking on longer strolls, since you won't want to be navigating the streets with burdensome bags and luggage. Thankfully, luggage storage in Paris can be easily managed with some minor planning.
Food and Drink
Bistros, brasseries, bakeries - there is a huge range of fantastic dining experiences to enjoy in Paris, and you'll want to try them all.
We suggest balancing fancy and upscale with casual and laid-back, giving you a complete perspective on how Parisians wine and dine in a normal week. You won't need to look far to find a relaxed cafe like a brasserie, which typically serves small dishes in a casual setting.
A bistro is even more like a traditional pub, free of tablecloths and printed menus. On the other end of the spectrum are Michelin-star restaurants that serve multiple-course meals with exceptional service.
In between bites, you should also try out some treats along the way. French pastry classics are plentiful, from baguettes to macarons baked fresh twice daily.
Authentic Paris Entertainment
Live music, plays, and performances can be found all over the city, and you don't need to pay Broadway prices to get a great show.
If you aren't fluent in French, skip plays with speaking roles, and opt for some music instead. Jazz is surprisingly popular in Paris to this day, and fits the vibe of the city perfectly.
Rock venues, cabarets, and clubs with electronic music are also staples of Paris nightlife, so save your energy if you want to stay up all night.
Do Paris Your Own Way
Compared to many other jam-packed cities, Paris is refreshing in its layout and accessibility. Don't rush through the city attempting to see it all, and simply enjoy the discovery of the city on your own terms.
Enjoy each moment in Paris and be sure to note the must-see spots for your next return visit.
