Everyone knows that Paris is a city like no other city in the world: bursting with history, culture, and beauty. Individuals journey to Paris to visit the Louvre, ascend the Eiffel Tower or witness the beauty of Notre Dame, but there is more to Paris than these attractions. In fact, true magic and real charm are encountered in the streets. Because the streets of Paris are so unpredictable and you can uncover all the things you won't see in the Louvre: chic ladies on bikes, bohemian poets and painters in cafes, the latest fashion trends, and great style at any corner of any street. Plus, the smell of croissants from chic boulangeries in the morning - nothing can beat that. It is everything you envisioned, and even a bit better - because while Paris is a city with a powerful cultural identity, it also accommodates individuals from all over the world who bring their own customs and traditions.
This is exactly why a trip to Paris' top views is simply not sufficient — to really get a feel of the city, take to the roads where the spirit and magic of Paris are most experienced.
As you scour the roads of Paris, you'll find yourself wandering the hills of Montmartre in pursuit of that perfect coffee place or rambling through Belleville, a Chinese community incorporated with hip, young Parisians and detailed murals. Across the river Seine, you can find yourself appreciating an early glass of wine at a café or analyzing the crooked streets of the Latin Quarter. It doesn't take much to become fully engaged with the city.
While you're at it, ensure that you don't miss anything, so take a moment to explore our Paris travel guide and discover some famous local gems, must-do actions, and great hotels.
When to visit Paris?
It's hard to top a holiday in Paris in the spring or summer when the temperature is friendly, Parisians herd to the parks, and all appears right on earth. If you want to detour the masses, a voyage in August, when most french people go on holiday — is hard to top. However, be ready for some eatery and shop vacations too. If you're a winter person, Paris can be great in December too, but make sure you dress comfortably and warmly.
How to travel in the city?
By train. It is the easiest and often, the fastest method to get around Paris. There are Paris metro and RER train stops all over the city, and a one-way journey costs around $2. You can also get a day pass that covers multiple travels.
By bus. The bus network delivers a fantastic alternative to the Paris train system, above the ground. One single journey costs around $2 and is used to connect metro positions that are further apart.
By taxi. There are a lot of taxi companies in Paris and G7 is for example an excellent option that takes card payment and even has an app. Or you could just use Uber.
By car service. If you feel more relaxed setting your airport pick-up in advance, you can benefit from the services presented by car service companies like Paris Black Cars or Blacklane.
Where to eat in Paris?
Pizzu, 22 Rue Béranger, 75003 Paris, France
Find an abundance of amazing pizzas here, at Pizzu, a restaurant owned by a skateboarder. Not far from Place de la République, a well-known skate park in Paris with excellent people-watching. Drop at Pizzu and get some comfort food and some wine in this relaxed skate-themed eatery where no reservation is needed. Seating is inside.
Le Train Bleu, Place Louis-Armand, 75012 Paris, France
It's quite hard to beat the atmosphere of Le Train Bleu, a French restaurant cradled at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The diner itself is a historic monument and it's effortless to see why. It might resemble the Chateau de Versaille and as you can imagine, you need to book a table in advance. Enjoy a fancy dinner under the hand-painted roofs and elaborate chandeliers of a Belle Époque restaurant.
What to do in Paris?
Musée d'Orsay
With more than 100 museums, Paris is definitely the place to go if you're an art explorer. But if you want something amazing, visit Musée d'Orsay, housed in an old railway station. You will discover incredible Beaux-Arts architecture, paintings, sculptures, and photography including famous works by Claude Monet and Vincent van Gough.
Jardin des Tuileries
The Tuileries Garden was once the garden of the Palace with the same name but after the French Revolution, it was opened to the public. Chilling near the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde is wonderful in this garden with chic walking alleys and a huge carousel.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
Do you think is weird to visit a cemetery? Think again! Because here, there are the resting places of great icons like Édith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison. Even on a vacation, especially if you have enough time, take a stroll in this peaceful place in Paris. Relax under the giant trees and discover old vine-covered tombs - so romantic!