Paris Travel Guide
One of the top tourist destinations in the world, the city of Paris is glamorous, romantic, playful and crammed with fascinating places, great restaurants and beautiful things.
Paris should be at the top of the list for anyone contemplating a European holiday. The city embodies style and charm and offers a variety of unique attractions, both ancient and modern. Paris brings out the romance in every soul. Art lovers, fashionistas and foodies are particularly well catered for, while sightseers can indulge in world-famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. Every few steps, visitors will find something to point at or photograph in this busy bustling metro. Of course, Paris also has a thrilling nightlife and the shopping is some of the best in the world.
Paris is also a great city to visit for those travelling with children. Families can relish the fantastic delights of Disneyland Paris and amusement parks such as Parc Asterix, which are within easy reach of the city. Kids will also enjoy the many parks, forests and gardens within Paris.
Best time to visit Paris
Peak tourist season in Paris is in the summer months, between June and August, but every season has something to offer visitors. Paris is notorious for its sudden rain showers, which can occur in summer or winter. However, it is always possible to retreat indoors to explore the wonderful museums and galleries before emerging into the sunshine again to enjoy coffee and pastries at a pavement cafe. Many locals escape Paris in August when the heat can be oppressive and some restaurants close.
What to see in Paris
-Wander through the awe-inspiring galleries of The Louvre.
-See the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte under the dome of Les Invalides.
-Visit the Pompidou Centre, the city's most popular attraction.
-Explore the magnificent palace of Versailles just outside of Paris.
What to do in Paris
-Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes and discover the many attractions of Paris's main botanical garden.
-Take an excursion to the palace of Fontainebleau.
-Marvel at the art in the incomparable Musee d'Orsay.
-Splash with the kids at Aquaboulevard on a hot day.
Beyond Paris
Paris is the perfect doorway to a number of regions of France. The Loire Valley is known as the 'Garden of France', with its many chateaux and gardens. Normandy is the military history enthusiast's dream destination. Champagne Country caters for lovers of France's famous bubbly. Paris is easily accommodated on any travel itinerary of France, not least of all because it is easy to get flights into the city.
Getting there
Paris has two world-class international airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (also called Paris Roissy Airport), located 14 miles (23km) northeast of Paris; and Paris-Orly Airport, located nine miles (14km) south of Paris. There are direct flights to Paris from various cities in the UK, New York and many European cities.
Did you know?
-Paris has been nicknamed the 'City of Lights', but lights originally referred to the number of intellectuals who live in the city.
-Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde are both buried at the Pere Lachaise cemetery in Paris.
-The Eiffel Tower was originally intended to be a temporary monument that would eventually be dismantled and sold as scrap.