Paris needs little introduction — the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, café terraces and the Seine are fixed in everyone’s imagination long before they arrive. The pleasure is in the detail: a morning market, a quiet Montmartre lane, a riverside walk at dusk. Here is how to make the most of it.
The Eiffel Tower
The emblem of the city is worth the hype. Go up for the sweeping views — best at dusk, when Paris begins to sparkle and the tower itself lights up on the hour — or simply picnic on the Champ de Mars below. Book tickets online to skip the longest queues.
The Louvre
The world’s largest art museum holds everything from ancient Egypt to the Renaissance — the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory. It is far too big to see in one go, so pick a wing, pre-book a timed ticket, and don’t try to do it all.
Montmartre
The old artists’ quarter still has the most village-like charm in Paris: steep cobbled streets, the painters of the Place du Tertre, and the white domes of the Sacré-Cœur crowning the hill, with one of the best free views over the whole city.
The Seine
The river is the spine of the city. Walk its quays past the newly reopened Notre-Dame and the Pont Alexandre III, or take an evening boat cruise to see the illuminated monuments glide by. The banks of the Seine are themselves a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
French Cuisine
Eating well is effortless here. Start the day with a croissant from a good boulangerie, linger over lunch in a bistro, and treat yourself to a classic — steak frites, duck confit, or a plate of cheese — with a glass of wine. Even a simple baguette sandwich on a bench is a Paris moment.
FAQ
How many days do you need in Paris?
Three to four days covers the major sights and still leaves time to simply wander the neighbourhoods.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are loveliest; August is quieter as many Parisians leave, though some shops close.
What are the main airports?
Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the main international hub; Orly (ORY) and Beauvais (BVA) handle many shorter and budget routes.
