A couple of hundred years ago, aristocrats used to travel Paris to have fun and immerse themselves in the city's hedonistic, bohemian lifestyle. It was probably the place where organized modern tourism truely began. 

Paris was originally the capital of fashion and cultural life. The vast international state spent its wealth decorating the capital with magnificent buildings, transforming the city in incredible ways. It's colonial past had greatly enriched the Parisian museums with fascinating exhibits. For a traveler, Paris is a city of endless and diverse exploration.

The first time you visit Paris, you want to see all the most famous landmarks. You often start thinking that you've fully discovered the city. The second time, you choose more interesting places to visit, but even then, once you leave, you realize there's still so much you haven't seen. By the third visit, you want to simply enjoy Paris. You choose a more relaxed pace, reduce the number of attractions on your list, and avoid the mass-tourism spots. After such a vacation, you start to understand that you only know a fraction of Paris. You realize that getting to know Paris would take a lifetime of visits, even if you went every year.

 

When to travel in Paris

Paris is beautiful and suitable for visiting year-round. In spring, many people enjoy visiting Paris to admire the chestnut trees. The gentle spring weather and the awakening nature make Paris truly unique. Spring is a great time to walk through the many parks and boulevards of Paris.

In summer, Paris can get quite hot, making it the perfect time to visit the numerous museums. Or, in the evening, you can take a boat ride along the Seine.

Autumn is also a wonderful time in Paris. Farmers bring their yearly harvests to the city. Rich autumn fish and seafood, fresh truffles—it's simply ideal for a gourmet. In autumn, cultural life becomes more active, and you can attend opera performances that you won't find in the theaters of Vilnius.

October in Paris: The trees are still green, with leaves changing color. Sometimes it rains, and the sun peeks out. Although there was also a whole rainy day, there is plenty to do in Paris even on a rainy day—except at Versailles. 

 

How to travel to Paris

The easiest way to get to Paris is by plane. Flights are frequent and usually well-timed. You can find tickets to arrive in Paris late in the morning and leave in the evening. After searching for tickets, I was able to find a round-trip for two from Vilnius to Paris for 150 euros, including all fees, in 2024. Departure from Vilnius is at 10 a.m., and the return from Paris is at 6 p.m. This schedule allows for a lot of activities on both the first and last days. 

Beauvais is about 70 kilometers from the outskirts of Paris, and buses take passengers to the Saint Denis University metro station. The train station is located in the town of Beauvais (a few kilometers away), and the airport can be reached by a local bus. From there, you can reach Gare du Nord train station in Paris. From Gare du Nord, any district of Paris is easily accessible. To get from Orly to the center, you can take the metro and RER (train lines). 

Bus tickets can be purchased from automatic machines or at traditional ticket counters.

 

Paris travel program

To make the most of your time in Paris, it’s worth preparing an interesting itinerary in advance. The first time you visit Paris, you'll typically visit the most famous architectural landmarks. Expect to spend time in long lines at the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. You’ll visit some of the other well-known sites, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, and admire the Arc de Triomphe. You’ll enjoy the panoramic view of Paris from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. You might even manage to take a boat ride along the Seine, go to the Moulin Rouge cabaret, and have a gourmet dinner somewhere.

The next time you visit, the major architectural masterpieces may no longer be a priority. Instead, you'll focus on specific museums, Montmartre, Père Lachaise Cemetery, or the Paris Catacombs. It’s also worth shopping for trendy and more affordable business attire and footwear. Often, for an overnight stay, visitors choose a charming Paris neighborhood like the Latin Quarter, where they can spend more time wandering through narrow streets.

The same landmark looks completely different under varying conditions. Ancient builders often took into account the additional visual impact, for example, during the golden hour. This is the next stage in experiencing Paris: capturing the most beautiful moments. Notre Dame Cathedral, for instance, continues to attract attention due to the opportunity to observe the restoration process. There is even a special viewing area set up in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral.

After a while, you start discovering favorite cafes, restaurants, saunas, and other entertainment, with cultural heritage remaining simply along the way. In Paris, you take your time and enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.

 

Where to stay in Paris

The first time, it’s difficult to choose where to stay in Paris. When using booking platforms, the map of Paris can make it seem like the whole city is the same. As always, the more expensive places are in the center, and it's cheaper in the outskirts. It’s important to note that most of the accommodation options offer very small rooms—often between 10-14 square meters. Even apartments and studios of a similar size. Prices for larger rooms rise dramatically. Budget accommodation in Paris is possible through platforms like Airbnb.com and Booking.com. You can also choose from exclusive apartments with terraces on upper floors offering views of Paris. There are even several websites dedicated to unique apartments only.

Once you get to know Paris better, the most important criterion for accommodation becomes the neighborhood. It’s nice to wake up in the morning and visit a familiar bakery, to have a cup of coffee outside. Feeling safe not just during the day but also at night. Living in a neighborhood where the fun continues until dawn. The best example of this is the Latin Quarter.

The Latin Quarter is where the city began during Roman times, when it was called Lutetia. In the Latin Quarter, you can still find narrow, winding streets that were left untouched, unlike other areas where streets were widened and straightened. From here, it’s easy to reach most of the main attractions in Paris. On the other side of the Seine from the Latin Quarter is the Marais district, also charming and no less expensive. However, with some searching, you can always find a good option for accommodation.

 

Must-See Places in Paris

Most of the sights in Paris are very well known. As a rule, the first time you visit Paris, you rush to see the most famous landmarks. Almost always, long lines of tourists form at these iconic sites.

The Orangery and Exotic Fruit Trees in the Gardens of Versailles from the Southern Side

Mandarin, orange, pomegranate trees, and even palms are grown in boxes. In winter, the plants are protected in rooms beneath the southern parterre.

 

The Eiffel Tower

It is highly likely that the Eiffel Tower is the most famous man-made structure in the world. The Eiffel Tower was originally built as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World’s Fair (the plan was to demolish it in 1910). From its summit, breathtaking views of the entire city of Paris can be seen, and the tower itself is visible from many parts of the city. In addition to the fact that a glass floor was installed in 2014, which creates a huge impression if you're brave enough to walk across it, the third level also features a panoramic champagne bar, brasserie, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. At night, the tower’s structure shines like Christmas tree lights (every hour). However, perhaps the best part of this architectural beauty is that it can be seen for free, and it’s incredibly photogenic, making it a very popular spot for couples.

The Champ de Mars in front of the Eiffel Tower

 

Seine River Cruise

A Seine River cruise is one of the most magical ways to discover Paris. As you cruise along the Seine, you can calmly enjoy the beautiful views that would otherwise go unnoticed. The journey lets you take in iconic city landmarks—from the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower to the Gothic spires of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Every turn reveals new corners of Parisian treasures: the Musée d'Orsay, the Paris Parliament, the Louvre, and many other historical monuments.

By choosing a cruise, you can avoid the bustle of the city and traffic jams, and instead, enjoy a romantic atmosphere, drifting along the river and watching the passing shores. It’s the perfect way to explore Paris for couples, families, or solo travelers. During the day, the cruises allow you to clearly see the city's architecture, while at night, Paris transforms into a glowing fairy tale of lights that is hard to forget.

Many cruises also offer additional entertainment: from an elegant dinner on board with a glass of wine in hand, to live music performances. It’s not just a river trip—it’s a unique experience that will allow you to discover Paris from a whole new perspective.

 

Disneyland Paris

Paris’ Disneyland is a world of wonders where dreams come true. Just half an hour from the center of Paris, this magical park attracts visitors from all over the world with its iconic attractions, fairy-tale castle, and unforgettable moments. It’s a place for everyone—from the youngest dreamers to adults who long to return to their childhood.

The park is divided into themed areas: Fantasyland brings classic fairy-tale heroes to life, Adventureland invites you on incredible journeys of discovery, and Discoveryland showcases the marvels of technology. It’s also worth visiting the Walt Disney Studios Park, which reveals the secrets of cinema and offers a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Disney films.

An evening full of emotion is guaranteed when, at night, the Eiffel Tower makes way for the Disneyland light parade and fireworks over the magical castle. Whether you're seeking adrenaline or a romantic atmosphere, Disneyland Paris is the place where everyone finds their own wonder.

 

Les Invalides

The Hôtel des Invalides (Invalides Palace) in Paris is one of the most impressive landmarks in the French capital, admired for its architecture and historical significance. The palace was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV as a hospital and refuge for wounded soldiers. Today, it’s not only an important museum but also a historic complex housing several impressive attractions.

One of the main draws of Les Invalides is the tomb of Napoleon I, located in the magnificent chapel known as the Dôme des Invalides. Here rests one of France’s most famous leaders—Napoleon Bonaparte—whose sarcophagus is surrounded by an aura of history and grandeur. The complex also houses the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum), where you can learn about France’s military campaigns from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum has an impressive collection of weapons, armor, uniforms, and artifacts from the Napoleonic era, as well as from both World Wars.

Another important landmark is the Saint-Louis des Invalides Cathedral, where military ceremonies are held, and which dazzles with its architectural beauty, stunning stained glass windows, and the graves of soldiers. Additionally, the Invalides complex is famous for its numerous historical tombs—here rests not only Napoleon but also other famous French military figures, such as Marshals Foch and Vauban.

A visit to the Hôtel des Invalides requires an entrance fee: the ticket for adults costs 14 euros, which grants access to Napoleon's tomb and the Army Museum. Visitors under 18, EU citizens under 26, and those with disabilities can enter for free. Free admission is also available on the first Sunday of each month from November to March.

 

Versailles Palace

The Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) is one of the most famous and luxurious royal palaces in the world, located near Paris. It was once the residence of the French kings and symbolizes the grandeur and opulence of the era of absolute monarchy. The palace attracts millions of visitors from around the world, offering not only stunning architecture but also a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the French monarchy.

When visiting the Palace of Versailles, the first stop should be the Royal Apartments, where Louis XIV and other French monarchs lived. The impressive rooms, adorned with luxurious furniture, paintings, and tapestries, offer a glimpse into the opulence of royal life. One of the most famous spaces in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces)—a long hall decorated with 357 mirrors and elegant chandeliers, where the most important ceremonies took place. It was in this hall that the famous Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919.

No less impressive are the Gardens of Versailles—perfectly symmetrical, with numerous fountains, ponds, and sculptures. Designed by the famous landscape architect André Le Nôtre, these gardens are considered one of the finest examples of French Baroque landscaping. In addition to the main palace, it is worth visiting the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon—smaller palaces that were used by the king as a retreat from official duties. The Petit Trianon is especially closely associated with Queen Marie Antoinette, as it was her personal space where she could escape the formality of court life. Next to the Petit Trianon is Marie Antoinette's Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine), a small idyllic village where the queen could experience a quieter, rural life.

Mirror Pond with Music and Fountain Show 

Getting to Versailles from Paris is easy and convenient. The most popular way is by train – the RER C line takes you directly to the Versailles Château - Rive Gauche station. The journey takes about 40 minutes. You can also travel by bus or car, but the train is more convenient due to potential traffic congestion.

The cost of visiting depends on the chosen program. A full ticket to the palace, gardens, Trianon, and Marie Antoinette's Hamlet costs about €19.50–21.50. If you want to see the musical fountain show or the musical gardens, you will need to pay an additional €10. Entry is free for children under 18 and for EU citizens under 26. Discounts or free entry are available on certain days.

To fully enjoy the Versailles Palace, it's recommended to spend the entire day there. The main palace and gardens usually take 5-6 hours to explore, but if you want to calmly visit the Trianon and Marie Antoinette's Hamlet, it's worth planning a few more hours. Versailles is a magnificent historical monument that opens the doors to the glorious times of the French monarchy and offers an unforgettable journey through royal grandeur.

 

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre) is the largest and one of the most famous museums in the world, located in the center of Paris, near the River Seine. It was once a royal residence, and today it houses over 38,000 works of art and historical artifacts. The Louvre is renowned for its impressive collections, which cover a wide range of civilizations – from the Ancient Near East and Egypt to Greek, Roman, and European artworks.

At the Louvre, you can see one of the largest Ancient Egyptian collections in the world, which includes sarcophagi, mummies, relics, statues, and other everyday items from Egyptian life. One of the most important pieces in this collection is the Statue of the Scribe and the Head of Ramses II, which reflect the craftsmanship of Egyptian artists and the grandeur of the pharaohs' era. The Ancient Mesopotamian collection is also worth noting, with the famous Code of Hammurabi, one of the oldest legal codes in human history, standing out.

The Greek and Roman civilization collections at the Louvre are equally impressive. Here, you can admire famous ancient masterpieces like the Venus de Milo, the iconic Greek statue known for its beauty and mysteriously missing arms. Another legendary exhibit is the Winged Victory of Samothrace, a statue of the Greek goddess of victory, which embodies the dynamic and powerful art of Greek sculptors.

The Louvre also boasts a vast European art collection, featuring masterpieces from the medieval period to the 19th century. One of the most famous exhibits is Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa", undoubtedly the most sought-after painting in the world. Additionally, the museum houses Eugène Delacroix’s "Liberty Leading the People", which has become a symbol of revolution and freedom.

A standard ticket costs around €17. Entry is free for young people under 18, and for EU citizens under 26, as well as on the first Sunday of each month from October to March. The museum also offers various ticket packages depending on the selected routes and tours.

To fully appreciate the Louvre, it is recommended to set aside at least half a day, but if you want to explore its collections in greater detail, a full day would be ideal. The museum is so vast that even in one day, it can be a challenge to see everything, so it is helpful to plan your route in advance and select the galleries that interest you the most. Paris is a dynamic city where new and interesting attractions are constantly emerging. Some are being restored, while others are gaining fresh attention.

Paris Cemeteries The cemeteries of Paris are an unusual but incredibly interesting destination, offering a mix of history, architecture, and celebrity graves. Père Lachaise Cemetery is the most visited. It is the largest cemetery in Paris and is the final resting place of famous figures such as Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Édith Piaf. A stroll through this cemetery park reveals the beauty of art, history, and nature.

Montparnasse and Montmartre Cemeteries are also captivating. Montparnasse has a more philosophical and bohemian atmosphere, with the graves of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Montmartre, on the other hand, has a quieter, more peaceful vibe, and is the final resting place of artists like Edgar Degas.

Many people enjoy walking through the cemeteries of Paris, including the Montmartre Cemetery.

 

Opéra Garnier

The Opéra Garnier, also known as the Paris Opera, is one of the most famous theaters in Paris and the world. Construction began in 1861 and was completed in 1875, after 14 years of work. It was designed by the French architect Charles Garnier.

Opéra Garnier is an excellent example of neo-baroque style. The building features a luxurious interior, intricate façade decorations, gold, marble, and a massive mirrored foyer. The central staircase of the building is particularly striking, becoming not only a functional part of the theater but also an architectural masterpiece. Above the main hall is the famous dome adorned with frescos by Marc Chagall.

Some of the most famous productions at the Opéra Garnier today include Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, and Don Giovanni. Ticket prices range from €35 to €250, depending on the seat. The opera's repertoire includes both classical and modern works, maintaining the theater's international prestige. Additionally, there are many tours available that allow visitors to explore the history and architecture of this iconic building.

Opéra Garnier is stunning with its opulence. It allows tours inside.

 

Paris Catacombs

The catacombs are a popular tourist attraction, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The origins of the Paris Catacombs date back to ancient times, when limestone quarries were first dug. These quarries were used as early as the Roman Empire, around the 1st to 3rd centuries AD. As Paris (then Lutetia) rapidly grew, there was a demand for building materials, especially limestone, which was abundantly found beneath the current city.

In the Middle Ages, limestone mining continued and became crucial for the expansion of Paris. Massive reserves of limestone were extracted from these quarries to build famous structures such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and other city buildings. Mining activities went on for centuries, and the tunnels continued to expand beneath the city.

It was not until the late 18th century, when Paris's cemeteries became overcrowded, that these old limestone quarries were repurposed as catacombs to store human remains. The quarry network was expanded and adapted to store bones.

Tours take visitors through a limited section of the catacombs, covering a route of about 1.5 kilometers. Although the catacombs contain many more tunnels, only a small portion is open to the public for safety reasons.

Around 6 million Parisians have been laid to rest in the Paris Catacombs. The bones are arranged artistically and neatly.

 

Sacre-Cœur Basilica

The Sacre-Cœur Basilica, located at the summit of Montmartre Hill in Paris, is one of the most iconic architectural and religious symbols of the French capital. The basilica was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Sacré-Cœur in French) with the aim of restoring the country’s religious faith after the war and the Commune uprising.

The Sacre-Cœur Basilica stands out with its Romanesque-Byzantine architectural style, which is quite rare in France. This style was inspired by the old Byzantine churches and architectural traditions of the Romantic period. The basilica is built from Château-Landon limestone, which naturally releases calcium salts and becomes even whiter over time. Because of this feature, the Sacre-Cœur façade always appears bright white, even in rain or other bad weather.

The basilica's central dome is one of the tallest in Paris, standing at 83 meters. It offers a fantastic vantage point for panoramic views of the city. Inside the basilica, there is a massive mosaic titled "Triumph of the Sacred Heart" (Le Christ en gloire), depicting Jesus with the Sacred Heart, which is one of the largest mosaics in the world. The basilica also houses one of the largest bells in France, known as La Savoyarde, weighing 19 tons.

Construction of the Sacre-Cœur Basilica officially began in 1875 and took nearly forty years to complete. The main structure was finished in 1914, but the official consecration didn’t occur until 1919 due to the First World War.

One of the most beautiful landmarks in Paris is the Sacre-Cœur Basilica. From its hilltop, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city. Entry to the basilica itself is free, but there is an admission fee to climb to the dome. Ticket prices typically range from 5 to 7 euros for adults, though they may vary depending on the season and special offers.

 

Alexander Bridge (Pont Alexandre III)

Alexander III Bridge is one of the most beautiful and luxurious bridges in Paris. It connects the Champs-Élysées with the Invalides and crosses the Seine between the Champs-Élysées district and the Invalides complex. The bridge was built to commemorate the alliance between France and Russia, which was formed in 1892. It is named after Tsar Alexander III of Russia, who ruled from 1881 to 1894. The bridge's construction began during the reign of his son, Tsar Nicholas II, and was ceremoniously opened in 1900 during the World's Fair (Exposition Universelle).

The Alexander III Bridge is one of the most impressive engineering projects in Paris, built during the Belle Époque era when luxurious architectural designs were highly valued. The bridge was designed by engineers Jean Résal and Amédée d'Alby, while the architectural elements were crafted by Joseph Cassien-Bernard and Jules-Louis Henri. The bridge is adorned with four 17-meter-high columns, each topped with gilded statues of Pegasus, symbolizing sound, science, industry, and the arts. The railings and lamps of the bridge are also decorated with intricate bronze ornaments and figures, with dominant motifs of nymphs, angels, and other mythological beings.

The architectural coherence of the bridge is noteworthy: it was designed so that its elegant form and ornate features would blend harmoniously with nearby landmarks, such as the Invalides and the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, which were also constructed for the World's Fair.

The Alexander III Bridge connects Place de la Concorde with the Invalides in Paris.

 

Museums in Paris

Paris is almost like a city-sized living museum. Magnificent buildings with distinctive architecture have become burial sites for famous individuals, and huge exhibitions are housed in the many museums across the city.

 

Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle (Holy Chapel) is a Gothic architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Paris on Île de la Cité, near the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral. Built in the 13th century, it is considered one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Europe, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows.

Sainte-Chapelle was commissioned by King Louis IX of France (later canonized as Saint Louis) to house valuable Christian relics he acquired, including one of the most significant—the Crown of Thorns worn by Jesus Christ. The chapel's construction began in 1242 and was completed in an astonishingly short time, by 1248.

King Louis IX purchased the relics from Baldwin II, the King of Jerusalem, for a huge sum—thought to be three times the cost of building the chapel itself. These relics were intended to enhance Paris's status as the center of Christian Europe.

The lower chapel was dedicated to the royal household and staff. It is darker and lower than the upper chapel, yet it is decorated with rich frescoes, sculptures, and colorful ornaments.

The upper chapel was reserved for the royal family and their guests. It housed the sacred relics and is considered the masterpiece of Sainte-Chapelle, due to its 15 enormous stained-glass windows that cover almost the entire surface of the walls. These windows are the most valuable artistic feature of the chapel, depicting nearly 1,100 biblical scenes, ranging from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

The stained-glass windows portray biblical stories, from the creation of the world to the life of Jesus Christ and the glorification of the French kings. Each window is rich in detail, illustrating not only religious but also historical narratives. The largest window, located above the altar, tells the story of the relics being brought to Paris and highlights Saint Louis's significance.

The upper chapel also houses a famous rose window created in the 15th century, which depicts scenes from the Apocalypse.

Today, Sainte-Chapelle is also used as a concert hall, hosting classical music performances, adding even more magic to this spatial and acoustic marvel.

 

Conciergerie

The Conciergerie is a former royal palace and prison located next to Sainte-Chapelle, where Marie Antoinette was held before her execution.

The Sainte-Chapelle Chapel, known for its stunning stained glass windows.

 

The Pantheon in Paris

The Pantheon of Paris is an impressive Neoclassical building located in the Latin Quarter, atop Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. Its construction began in 1758 and was completed in 1790 during the reign of King Louis XV. Initially designed as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, the Pantheon was the work of architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot, who incorporated a classical style with strong Baroque and Gothic influences, as well as elements drawn from the ancient Roman Pantheon.

The main feature of the building is its enormous dome, which is reminiscent of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The Pantheon also boasts an elegant façade with columns and a triangular pediment depicting the triumph of France and its famous citizens.

During the French Revolution, the building was transformed into a mausoleum for France's illustrious figures. Many famous individuals are buried here, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, Marie and Pierre Curie, and Alexandre Dumas.

In addition to the tombs, the Pantheon is worth visiting for Foucault's Pendulum, which demonstrates the rotation of the Earth, and the numerous frescoes depicting significant moments in French history. The Pantheon also offers stunning views of Paris from its upper terrace, which is a must-see for any visitor. 

The Pantheon of Paris is a copy of the Pantheon of Rome. It is the final resting place of many famous French figures, such as Victor Hugo and Rousseau.

 

Things to do in Paris

Paris offers a wide range of both daytime and nighttime activities. The city's vast market allows for extravagant productions.

Opéra Bastille, visited to see a Faust performance. A modern production, a classic re-interpretation. A nod to genderism with the introduction of new characters. Interesting audience traditions: before the performance, spectators don't stand at the bar. However, almost everyone is hungry after the first act. Many pre-order a glass of sparkling wine and a sandwich. Some even bring their own sandwiches. There are almost no women in evening gowns, nor men in suits. The dress code is casually festive.

 

Things to do in Paris at night

Paris is quite safe at night, especially in tourist areas like the Latin Quarter. Although most bars close around midnight or 1 a.m., quite a few stay open until the early morning hours, usually those with live music.

At night, Paris unveils new sensations, offering a multitude of activities that let you experience the city’s magic from a different perspective. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular nighttime attractions – in the evening, it shines with lights, and from the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. A walk along the Seine also provides a romantic and peaceful atmosphere, with many illuminated bridges and historical architecture.

Paris’s cabarets come alive at night. The most famous, Moulin Rouge, located in the Montmartre district, offers stunning shows with colorful costumes, live music, and iconic French dances, including the can-can. Other cabarets, such as Le Lido on the Champs-Élysées or Crazy Horse, also offer breathtaking performances combining dance, music, and theater.

Culture enthusiasts can enjoy night-time museum visits. For example, the Louvre stays open late on certain evenings, allowing you to immerse yourself in art without the usual daytime crowds. The Pompidou Centre also offers evening exhibitions, as does the Orsay Museum, home to impressive Impressionist works.

For music lovers, Paris offers a variety of concerts and jazz clubs. In neighborhoods like Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there are excellent jazz clubs, such as Le Caveau de la Huchette or Duc des Lombards, where both local and international musicians perform.

 

Bastille Square at Night

Paris’s nightlife is also renowned for its late-night bars and clubs. The Pigalle and Bastille districts are known for their vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, cocktail lounges, and nightclubs where you can dance until dawn. Popular spots include Rex Club, famous for its electronic music, and Le Badaboum, where music, art, and even theatrical elements blend together.

For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, Paris offers late-night movie screenings or even night cruises along the Seine. These cruises provide a chance to leisurely sail past the city’s most iconic landmarks, like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pont Neuf, and the Musée d'Orsay, all framed by the illuminated city skyline.

 

Famous Parisian Spas

On a rainy and cold day, enjoying a spa is the perfect option. The first baths in Paris appeared thousands of years ago, alongside the Romans. While there aren't many options, there are some interesting ones to consider.

Hammam de la Mosquée de Paris is one of the most famous and authentic spas in Paris, located next to the Paris Mosque. This is the famous Turkish-style bath. The main room is a steam bath with a mild temperature and warm stones. The desert room is very original, with elevated areas where hot air blows. A shallow pool of very cold water provides refreshing relief. The contrast between hot and cold creates incredible sensations. The Hammam offers body scrubs and massages. The entrance fee is usually around €30, with additional services like massages or scrubs costing an extra €40-50. Currently, this Hammam is for women only. Swimwear is required in the spa.

Moroccan baths are still known as Turkish baths, as seen in the Louis de Funès comedy La Grande Vadrouille. In one scene, a few men are swimming in a steam pool, whistling Tea for Two. I couldn’t find those particular pools, though they may have existed at some point. However, even without that specific experience, the bath itself was impressive.

Paris has quite a few Eastern or Arabic restaurants, with prices generally being a bit lower than those of traditional French dining. A true food connoisseur will most likely choose French cuisine. However, there’s at least one Arabic restaurant worth a visit.

The mosque's restaurant is located next to the Moroccan Hammam, with a separate entrance. Women go to the Hammam, while men head to the restaurant. It can truly be a food feast. The chef's couscous for one person cost 28 euros, enough for two.

Les Bains du Marais is a luxurious spa and hammam located in the Marais district of Paris. This center offers not only traditional Turkish steam baths but also a variety of massage and beauty treatments. A visit to the hammam costs about 50-70 EUR, and additional services like massages or body scrubs may cost extra. There are no separate days for men and women, so visitors can enjoy the baths together. It’s common to visit in swimsuits or hammam robes. 

The Spa My Blend by Clarins, located in the luxurious Le Royal Monceau hotel, is one of the most prestigious in Paris. It offers modern saunas, steam rooms, and high-quality spa treatments. Prices range from 150 to 300 EUR, depending on the service package chosen, which may include massages, facial treatments, and other beauty services. There are no separate days for men and women, so all visitors can use the baths and spa facilities together.

Le Tigre Yoga Club & Spa combines wellness practices with the pleasures of saunas and spa treatments. This center offers not only saunas and steam baths but also yoga and meditation classes. A visit to the sauna costs around 50-80 EUR, depending on the selected service package. There are no separate days for men and women, so all visitors can enjoy the spa facilities together. It’s an ideal place for those who want to combine physical relaxation with spiritual peace.

Villa Thalgo, located near the Trocadéro Square, is known for its thalassotherapy treatments and luxurious spa rituals. The center has saunas and steam baths, and the cost of a visit ranges from 70 to 100 EUR. Additional services, such as massages or sea therapies, may increase the price. Like other modern spa centers, there are no separate days for men and women, so visitors can enjoy the spa together.

 

Specialized Wine Shops in Paris

Wine can be found in many small supermarkets throughout Paris, with major chains like Carrefour and Franprix. These stores don’t offer a large selection, but they do sell good wines at relatively affordable prices. For wine enthusiasts, visiting specialized wine shops is a great option.

Nicolas is one of the most well-known wine shop chains in France, with numerous locations throughout Paris, including the city center. They offer a wide selection of wines, including very good wines at reasonable prices. Their shops are scattered across the city, including in neighborhoods like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Les Halles. They offer both local French and international wines.

Located in the Le Bon Marché shopping center in the 7th arrondissement, La Grande Épicerie de Paris offers a vast selection of wines. While you’ll find luxury bottles here, they also have a wide range of excellent wines at affordable prices, including options under 15 euros.

Le Vin en Tête is an independent wine shop with several locations in central Paris, including in the Montmartre and Saint-Georges districts. You’ll find wines in various price ranges, and the shop staff are often happy to recommend the best wines at an affordable price.

One of the oldest and most prestigious wine shops in Paris, Cave Augé is located on Boulevard Haussmann near the Opéra Garnier. While they carry more expensive wines, you'll also find an excellent selection of affordable bottles in the 10-15 EUR range.

 

Wine Tastings in Paris

Ô Château wine bar, located near the Louvre, is one of the most popular spots in Paris for wine tastings. They offer a wide variety of tasting options, from short sessions to longer tasting evenings where wine history, regions, and food pairings are discussed. Tastings are conducted in both English and French.

Les Caves du Louvre is one of the unique wine cellars in Paris, offering both tours and tastings. Here, visitors can learn about the winemaking process, the history of wine, and taste a variety of wines. Situated in a historic cellar near the Louvre, it’s also an attractive spot for wine enthusiasts.

A small yet very popular wine bar and shop in the Belleville district, La Cave à Michel is known for its natural wine tastings. Although the place is small, the atmosphere is very friendly, and tastings are often informally organized with wines from local producers.

One of the oldest and most prestigious wine shops in Paris, Legrand Filles et Fils is located near the Palais Royal. The shop regularly hosts wine tastings where visitors can sample top-quality wines, sometimes even from rare or aged wine collections.

 

Public Transport in Paris

In Paris, the most convenient way to get around is by using the Metro and RER. The lines intersect, making it quite easy to travel from one end of the city to the other, or even to suburban areas like Versailles. A single metro ticket costs 2 euros. If you plan on traveling frequently, it’s worth purchasing a multi-ride pass. In 2024, the most cost-effective option was the NAVIGO multi-ride pass. This pass is particularly useful if you are vacationing from Monday, as it is valid for one week, from Monday to Sunday. The Navigo pass is valid in zones 1 to 5, so it can even be used for a trip to Versailles. The pass works for both the metro and RER.

There are also other types of passes that can include museum entry. It’s a good idea to check which option would be the most economical for your specific trip.

The Paris Metro and RER are not difficult to use. The Metro is marked with numbers, while the RER is marked with letters. There are two entrances for both the Metro and RER, one for each direction. The direction of the train is indicated by the name of the last station on the line. Often, in such places, there is also a list of all the stations in that direction.

Inside the Metro stations, there are many maps where you can study the metro routes. There is a convenient map where the metro lines are connected with the surface street map.

The RER train runs through tunnels in the city center and above ground in the suburbs.

 

Culinary Experiences in Paris

Paris is a true culinary haven. In the Latin Quarter, there are cafes and restaurants all around. Next to French restaurants, you can find Iranian, Arabic, and Vietnamese dishes. Often, Asian and Arabic meals are a bit cheaper than traditional French food, although prices can vary greatly even in neighboring establishments. The cheapest meals are often available as set menus with a choice of 3–4 dishes.

Most of Paris's restaurants are tourist-oriented, mass catering establishments. A big advantage is that the ingredients are fresh. The downside is the mechanical service and the lack of truly gourmet experiences.

Gourmet experiences are possible in smaller, intimate restaurants. A hallmark of such places is the requirement for advance reservations and a local Parisian clientele. These restaurants usually operate only in the evening. Prices are not higher than in tourist restaurants. However, for most people, tourist restaurants will suffice. When visiting Paris, you should definitely try dishes typical of Parisian cuisine.

Foie gras goose liver pâté. A small portion of it can cost 15 - 20 euros. The taste is usually much more intense than store-bought versions.

Classic snails (escargots) are stewed in butter and parsley in their shells. Special tongs are provided to hold the shell, and a special fork is used to remove the snail. The sauce is poured over or spread on bread. It doesn't differ much from store-bought, reheated versions.

 Roger la Grenouille served exceptionally tender snails in a wine and garlic sauce.

Fried frog legs offer an interesting culinary experience. It's not a dish you come across very often. The impressive frog legs grenouille en persillade at the restaurant Roger la Grenouille. Onion soup, Soupe à l’oignon, is an inexpensive traditional dish as well. The flavor variations are quite large.

Beef tartare is considered a traditional Norman dish. Tartare de boeuf.

For culinary enthusiasts, there is the opportunity to buy fresh fish and seafood. Paris has quite a few fish stalls at farmers' markets. However, this requires staying in an apartment with a kitchenette.

Poissonnerie du Château Rouge is a fish stall where devilfish fillet (ray) cost 20 EUR per kg. It's a relatively small stall, surrounded by vegetable stalls.

Marché Couvert des Enfants Rouges fish stall. Devilfish fillet (ray) cost 60 EUR.

Fresh oysters at Marché Couvert des Enfants Rouges cost 2.5 - 4.5 euros. Mussels were 10 euros (typically around 6 euros elsewhere), and scallops were 10 euros.

Fresh mussels are the fattest in the fall. Even the small ones have large chunks of meat inside.

The cheese pavilion at Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges. The prices are quite high. 

The bakeries (Boulangeries) in Paris open early. True Parisians are the ones who have their coffee and a pastry at the bakery in the early morning. That's how you can tell the locals.

Of course, not trying Creme Brûlée in Paris is almost like not being in Paris at all.

Roasted chestnuts on the streets are one of the symbols of Paris. This year, the chestnuts on offer are very large, most likely cultivated, and tastier than the wild ones.

 

Panoramic Views in Paris

Paris is famous for its stunning panoramic views, which can be seen from various locations around the city. One of the most famous views is from the top of the Eiffel Tower. This 330-meter-high structure offers the opportunity to see the entire city from different levels, and from the highest platform, there's an unforgettable view of the Seine River, the Arc de Triomphe, and other notable landmarks.

Another impressive view can be found from the top of Montmartre Hill, where the Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands. From this location, which is the highest point in Paris, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, especially at sunset. Unique sights of old Paris unfold here, with narrow streets lying below.

The Paris Pantheon also offers a fantastic panoramic view. From its upper terrace, you can see the Latin Quarter, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the entire city center.

More modern views can be seen from the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower. This location is considered one of the best observation platforms in Paris, providing a view of the entire city, as well as the Eiffel Tower from a different perspective.

Finally, it's worth visiting the Arc de Triomphe, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Champs-Élysées, the well-laid-out streets, and the entire architecture of central Paris.

Stairs from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica

 

Supermarkets in Paris

There are quite a few supermarkets in the center of Paris that serve both locals and tourists. Here are a few main retail chains and their offerings:

Monoprix – One of the most popular retail chains in Paris, with many stores in the city center. Monoprix offers a wide range of products: fresh food, vegetables, fruits, dairy, meat, and baked goods. You’ll also find household items, clothing, and cosmetics here. This chain is known for being a one-stop shop where you can buy both everyday groceries and special gourmet products.

Carrefour City – A smaller version of Carrefour, located in many places throughout Paris, including the city center. Here you’ll often find everyday products like bread, cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as snacks, drinks, and various dairy items. While these stores are smaller in format, they are perfect for quick shopping.

Franprix – Another smaller-format supermarket with many stores across Paris. Franprix offers consumer goods, as well as fresh and organic products. This store is appealing to those looking for a quick shopping experience in the city center.