Things to Know About Paris

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world; it is a place of romance, culture and of course, gastronomic excellence. With its Eiffel Tower, cobblestoned streets, and quaint cafés, Paris is an unforgettable destination for those who come to experience it. But to truly get the most out of your visit, it helps to know a few things before you go. Here is an in-depth guide to help you prepare for your visit to the City of Lights.

History and Overview

Paris has been a major city since the 2nd century BCE, when it was founded as a Gaulish settlement. The city was taken by the Romans in 52 BCE and eventually became the capital of the Roman province of Gaul. During the Middle Ages, Paris grew and prospered as a center of commerce and culture. It was the site of the coronation of Charlemagne as the first Holy Roman Emperor and the launching of a number of military campaigns.

Today, Paris is one of the most populous cities in Europe, with an estimated population of 2.2 million people. It is the capital and largest city of France, and is also one of the most visited cities in the world, with over 30 million tourists each year. The city is known for its stunning architecture, such as the iconic Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées. It’s also known for its world-renowned cuisine, fashion, art, and culture.

Getting Around Paris

Paris has an extensive public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. The two primary forms of transportation are buses and the Metro, a subway system that runs throughout the city. Both buses and the Metro are relatively inexpensive and efficient. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks located at each station or online.

Taxis are also available in Paris and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis, which can be expensive and unsafe.

For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, Paris has an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes that make cycling around the city a safe and enjoyable experience. Bikes can be rented from a variety of locations throughout the city, including bike-sharing stations.

What to See and Do in Paris

Paris has something for everyone; from world-renowned museums to galleries and parks, there is no shortage of things to do. Here are some of the top attractions:

The Eiffel Tower

No visit to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Opened in 1889 for the World’s Fair, this iconic structure stands 324 meters tall and offers sweeping views of Paris from its observation deck. Visitors can ascend to the top via stairs or elevators and enjoy a meal at one of two restaurants onsite.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre is one of the most famous art museums in the world and home to some of the most iconic works of art ever created, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker. The museum is open daily and can be explored via guided tours or self-guided visits.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris and one of its most popular tourist attractions. This 12th-century Gothic cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the interior of this stunning building or climb to the top of its towers for breathtaking views of Paris.

The Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of Paris’ main thoroughfares and one of its most fashionable areas. It is lined with chic boutiques, cafés, restaurants, theaters, and more. The street is also home to numerous monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Obelisk of Luxor.

Seine River Cruise

One of the best ways to explore Paris is from the water; visitors can take a Seine River Cruise for breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and more. The cruise offers an intimate look at some of Paris’ most famous sights from a unique perspective.
Book a Seine River Cruise here.

Montmartre District

Montmartre is one of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods and home to some of the city’s most famous sights such as Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Place du Tertre – where visitors can find an array of artists offering their work for sale. The area also has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, restaurants, and more.

Versailles Palace Tour

Located just outside Paris is Versailles Palace – a magnificent estate that was once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Visitors can explore the palace’s extensive gardens or attend one of its many events. Book a Versailles Palace Tour here.

Montparnasse Tower Tour

The Montparnasse Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Paris offering 360 degree views over the city from its 56th floor observation deck. Visitors can take a tour or simply enjoy views over some of Paris’ most famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.Book a Montparnasse Tower Tour here.

Where to Eat in Paris

Paris is renowned for its cuisine; from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming bistros, there are no shortage of delicious places to eat in this culinary capital. Here are some top picks:

Le Comptoir de Passy

Le Comptoir de Passy is a charming bistro located in one of Paris’ most charming districts; Passy. The restaurant offers classic French dishes with a modern twist in a cozy atmosphere.

L’Avenue Restaurant

L’Avenue Restaurant is located on Avenue Montaigne – one of Paris’ most fashionable streets – and offers classic French dishes with contemporary flair in an elegant setting.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is located in the Montmartre district and offers innovative French cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. This restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars for its excellence in culinary craftsmanship.

Les Ombres Restaurant

Les Ombres Restaurant is located at the Musée du Quai Branly – overlooking the Seine River – and offers traditional French dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients in a sleekly designed setting with breathtaking views over Paris.

Le Cinq Restaurant

Le Cinq Restaurant is located at the Four Seasons Hotel George V and serves modern French cuisine in an elegant setting complete with crystal chandeliers and an award-winning wine list. This restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars for its excellence in culinary craftsmanship.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris has no shortage of accommodation options; from luxury hotels to budget hostels, there are plenty of places to stay that suit any budget or preference. Here are some top picks:

Hôtel Ritz Paris

Hôtel Ritz Paris is one of the city’s most iconic hotels located in Place Vendôme – just steps away from the Tuileries Garden – and offers luxurious accommodation with exquisite French decor in a historically inspired setting.

The Peninsula Paris Hotel

The Peninsula Paris Hotel is located just off Avenue des Champs-Élysées – one of Paris’ main thoroughfares – and offers luxurious accommodation with elegant decor in a contemporary setting complete with views over some of Paris’ most iconic monuments such as Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower.

Hotel de Crillon

Hotel de Crillon is located on Place de la Concorde – just steps away from Tuileries Garden – and offers luxurious accommodation with exquisite French decor in a grand 18th century setting complete with sweeping views over Paris.

Hotel Les Bains

Hotel Les Bains is located just off Boulevard Saint-Germain – one of Paris’ main thoroughfares – and offers chic accommodation with contemporary decor in a modern setting that once served as a popular hotspot for fashion icons such as Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld.

Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris

Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris is located just off Place de la Madeleine – one of Paris’ main squares – and offers chic accommodation with contemporary decor inspired by its namesake gourmet grocery store complete with views over some of Paris’ iconic monuments such as Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Montmartre district.

Conclusion

Paris is a vibrant city full of history, culture, art, gastronomy, fashion, and more! From exploring iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral to enjoying an evening along Champs-Élysées or dining at one of many Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for everyone in this romantic city! Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or budget-friendly options; whether you want to explore on two wheels or take a boat tour along Seine River; whether you are looking for historical sights or just want to soak up some culture – you’re sure to find something special in this City of Lights!