Paris holidays

Best time to go to Paris

There really is no bad time for a holiday to Paris. If you love long, warm days and spending time outdoors, the summer months are the way to go. With temperatures often in the high 20s and above, you can enjoy the Bastille Day fireworks on 14 July and the annual summer funfair in the Jardin des Tuileries. If you’re visiting in August, note that a lot of places close as Parisians escape the city on holiday.

Spring and autumn offer cooler but still reasonable temperatures and fewer crowds, making this a perfect time for sightseeing. February is a big month for events, with Mardi Gras (usually), Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day – it doesn’t get more romantic than 14 February in the City of Love! And while winter in Paris can be cold and wet, it’s also magical: enjoy vin chaud (mulled wine) at the Christmas markets, marvel at the New Year parade, and snag a bargain in the winter sales.

How to get to Paris

International travellers to Paris will arrive at one of three airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly or Paris Beauvais. Here’s how to reach the heart of the action from each of them:

• Charles de Gaulle: take the RER B line. Approx. 25 mins to Gare du Nord. Ticket price €11.45

• Orly: take the OrlyVal service to Antony, then change for the RER B. Allow 35 mins total. €15.40 for a combined ticket

• Beauvais: take the direct shuttle bus to Porte Maillot. Travel time 1h15m, ticket price €16.90 one way if bought online in advance

Getting around Paris

Paris is blessed with a comprehensive public transport network, the Metro. With over 300 stations, it’s one of the densest metro networks in the world, so you’re practically guaranteed to find a stop near your accommodation. Trains start operating at about 5.30 am and run until 1.15 am (or 2 am on Friday/Saturday).

Tickets can be purchased from the counters at every station or the automatic ticket machines, but you can also get them on your phone for added convenience. Unlimited day passes are available, but Paris is a very walkable city, so you might not find yourself using the Metro as much as you think – buying 10 single-use tickets for less than €20 is often better value for money.

What to do in Paris

Paris boasts a whole host of world-class museums, first and foremost the Louvre, where you can admire over 30,000 works including the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. The Musée d’Orsay focuses on Impressionist masterpieces, while the architecture (a vast former railway station) is a work of art in itself.

No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to its most iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower – take the lift all the way to the top for a breathtaking view of the Champ de Mars and beyond. And don’t forget to take a stroll along the Champs-Elysées, browsing the windows of the upscale boutiques as you approach the monumental Arc de Triomphe.

Things to do in Paris for free

If you’re doing a Paris holiday on a budget, some of the city’s most impressive churches are free to visit. The interior of Notre Dame closed to visitors following the devastating fire of 2019, but has since reopened. You can also visit the underground exhibit “Notre-Dame de Paris: at the heart of the construction site”.

Over in the romantic, quirky neighbourhood of Montmartre, the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica is open every day for free, with no reservation needed. If the weather’s good, why not check out the city’s wonderful parks? The Jardin du Luxembourg and the Jardin des Tuileries, both centrally located, are perfect for a stroll along the leafy avenues or a trip to the playground with little ones.

What to do in Paris with your family

With two parks to explore, plus a village full of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you can’t go wrong with Disneyland Paris for a family day out. Little ones will love the classic It’s a Small World and Alice-themed Fantasyland, while older kids and thrill-seekers can brave the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the Aerosmith-inspired Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.

For a similar but more Gallic experience, try Parc Astérix, based around the legendary Gaulish warrior, with zones harking back to Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, the Land of the Vikings and Egypt. The log flume is great for younger kids, but more intrepid visitors can tackle the hair-raising Goudurix coaster with a whopping seven inversions.

Things to do in Paris in winter

Paris in winter offers a magical experience, draped in festive lights and a charming atmosphere. The Eiffel Tower, dusted with snow, becomes even more enchanting, perfect for romantic evenings. Winter is an excellent time to explore the city's renowned museums, like the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay, away from the usual crowds. Strolling along the Seine, especially with the Christmas markets in full swing, offers a quintessential Parisian experience.

Warm up with hot chocolate in a cosy café, or indulge in seasonal delicacies at a local bistro. For the adventurous, ice-skating rinks pop up in picturesque locations, such as the one at the Grand Palais. The Champs-Élysées, illuminated with festive lights, make for a delightful evening walk, encapsulating the charm of Paris in winter.

Things to do in Paris for couples

Paris, often dubbed the 'City of Love', is an idyllic destination for couples. Picture a romantic stroll along the Seine River, especially enchanting at dusk when the city lights begin to sparkle. The iconic Eiffel Tower, whether seen from a distance or up close, offers a memorable backdrop for couples. For an immersive cultural experience, visiting world-famous museums like the Louvre or enjoying a show at the Opéra Garnier can be both romantic and enriching.

The charming streets of Montmartre, with their artistic heritage and stunning views of the city, are perfect for leisurely exploration. Couples can also enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of the city's many exquisite restaurants, offering a taste of authentic French cuisine. Not to forget, a cruise on the Seine provides an opportunity to see many of Paris's landmarks from a unique vantage point, adding to the romantic atmosphere. Paris's gardens, like the Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens, are ideal for a peaceful escape within the city. In summary, Paris offers a blend of historical, cultural, and scenic experiences that make it a dream destination for couples.

Get an eye-full of the Eiffel

Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower is an iconic structure and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Influencing similar structures in other cities, such as Blackpool Tower, it offers stunning views across the city and is an essential stop on your Paris holiday.

Museums and Galleries

There are so many outstanding museums and galleries in Paris that it’s hard to choose just a few. The Musée d'Orsay, a former railway station, opened its doors in 1986 and contains a number of important paintings and sculptures, such as Whistler’s Mother and Monet's Blue Water Lilies.

The Picasso Museum in the Marais district is dedicated to the work of Pablo Picasso and holds over 5,000 pieces of his art. Situated in a 17th-century mansion, The Hotel Salé includes paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and drawings by famous artists.

Housed in the Louvre Palace, The Louvre Museum contains an impressive collection of historical artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Bars, pubs, and nightclubs in Paris

Classic Parisian bars

For an authentic Parisian experience, the city's bars offer a blend of history and charm. Places like Harry's New York Bar and Le Bar du Bristol provide not only exquisite cocktails but also a journey into Paris's rich nightlife history. These venues are known for their classic interiors and sophisticated ambiences, making them ideal for an elegant night out.

Trendy pubs and microbreweries

Paris's pub scene is as vibrant as it is diverse. Pubs like The Highlander and The Frog & Rosbif bring a taste of British and Irish culture to the heart of the city, complete with a wide selection of beers and ales. Additionally, Paris's emerging microbrewery scene offers unique local brews, with spots like Paname Brewing Company and Brasserie de la Goutte d'Or leading the charge.

Iconic nightclubs

For those seeking a more energetic nightlife experience, Paris's nightclubs are world-renowned. Clubs like Rex Club and Le Batofar are famous for their electronic music scenes, hosting top DJs from around the world. These venues are perfect for dancing the night away and experiencing the cutting-edge of Paris's contemporary music scene.

Jazz clubs for music enthusiasts

Paris has a long-standing love affair with jazz, and this is evident in its many jazz clubs. Iconic spots like Duc des Lombards and Caveau de la Huchette offer live jazz in intimate settings, perfect for music aficionados looking to enjoy a night of smooth melodies and Parisian chic.

Romantic wine bars

For couples, Paris's wine bars offer a cosy and romantic setting. Wine bars like Le Baron Rouge and O Chateau feature extensive wine lists and knowledgeable staff, ensuring a delightful evening for wine lovers. These spots often pair their selections with exquisite French cheeses and charcuterie, making for a perfect culinary experience.

These diverse nightlife options showcase the dynamic and vibrant character of Paris, catering to every taste and preference and ensuring that every night out in the city is an unforgettable experience.

Shopping in Paris

The catwalks of Paris are famous around the world for cutting-edge fashion and the city’s stores reflect this trait with a fantastic amount of shopping opportunities for any would-be fashionista. The Avenue des Champs Elysées is a great place to browse high street and designer stores.

Galeries Lafayette is a must-visit during your holiday in Paris. One of the world’s largest department stores, its stunning décor includes an Art Nouveau staircase and a coloured glass dome over stores such as The House of Delvaux and Fauré Le Page. There’s also an observation deck on the rooftop of the building that offers views of the Paris Opera House and the Eiffel Tower.

What to eat in Paris

Paris has thousands of fantastic restaurants to choose from. Here are just a few pointers:

• Fine dining: L’Espadon offers gourmet cuisine with a surprisingly modern twist: chef Eugénie Béziat combines her unique perspective of growing up in Africa and summering in Provence to create unexplored flavours.

• Bistro: A stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, the charming Fontaine de Mars boasts the customary red awning and chequered tablecloths, with a fresh take on classic French cuisine.

• Steak: At Le Relais de Venise, they stick to what they know best. Diners only have one option: a walnut salad to start, followed by two servings of steak and frites with the famous house sauce. All you have to do is let them know how you want your meat cooked.

• Raclette/fondue: Pain, Vin, Fromages. This spot in the trendy Marais neighbourhood serves up deliciously cheesy specialities from the Savoy region paired with superb wines.

Café Culture

Paris is as famous for its food as it is for its fashion, with gourmet treats on almost every corner. If you have a sweet tooth, head to Laduree, at 16 rue Royale, a luxury pastry shop and tearoom founded in 1862. Their macaroons are a speciality and have been featured in films such as Marie Antoinette and the TV show Gossip Girl.

Events in Paris

These events offer a glimpse into Paris's vibrant cultural scene, providing a blend of fashion, music, sports, and historical celebrations throughout the year.

Paris Fashion Week

A globally-renowned event, Paris Fashion Week is a must-see for fashion enthusiasts. Held in January and June/July for men and haute couture and in March and September/October for women, it attracts celebrities and fashion icons to runway shows at venues like the Grand Palais.

Fête de la Gastronomie

In March, Paris celebrates French cuisine, recognized by UNESCO as part of the ‘intangible cultural heritage of humanity’. This festival includes banquets, tastings, workshops, and special market days across the city.

Roland Garros

Held in May/June, Roland Garros, one of the four grand slam tennis tournaments, is a highlight for sports fans. The most exciting matches take place at the Philippe Chatrier court.

Fête de la Musique

Every June, Paris vibrates with music during the Fête de la Musique. Street parties and concerts are held throughout the city, celebrating the summer solstice with diverse music genres.

Paris Pride

Also in June, the Paris Pride, or Marche des Fiertés, celebrates LGBTQ+ rights with a colourful carnival procession and concerts, followed by parties at clubs and bars across the city.

Versailles Masquerade Ball

Experience the grandeur of the past at the Versailles Masquerade Ball in June. Held at the Palace of Versailles, guests are expected to dress in full baroque costumes, including masks.

Bastille Day

On the 14th July, Bastille Day commemorates the French Revolution. The day starts with a military parade on the Champs-Élysées and ends with spectacular fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.

Cinéma en Plein Air à la Villette

In July/August, enjoy free open-air cinema at Parc de la Villette. The program includes French and foreign films, both classic and contemporary.

Rock en Seine

In August, the Rock en Seine festival features rock, hip-hop, and electronic acts in the Parc de Saint-Cloud, offering a mix of world-renowned and emerging artists.

Jazz à la Villette

Late August/September brings Jazz à la Villette, showcasing contemporary jazz and big names in hip-hop and world music, honouring Paris's rich jazz history.