Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Paris
Paris is a captivating city known for its romantic ambiance, iconic architecture, and rich cultural scene. Ideal for holidaymakers and backpackers, it offers a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The city is easy to explore on foot or via its efficient metro system, with plenty of budget-friendly accommodations. Paris’ diverse neighbourhoods, lively cafés, and artistic atmosphere make it perfect for leisurely exploration and unforgettable experiences.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Oct
3 – 25°C
37 – 77°F
Paris’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe | Walk down the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous avenue, lined with shops and cafes, leading to the Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of French national pride. |
| Eiffel Tower | Ascend the Eiffel Tower for stunning views of Paris. Enjoy the iconic structure by day or night, with options to dine at its restaurants or relax on the Champ de Mars. |
| Le Marais District | Wander through Le Marais, a historic district known for its narrow streets, chic boutiques, art galleries, and a vibrant mix of cultures, including the Jewish Quarter. |
| Louvre Museum | Explore the Louvre, the world’s largest art museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, and spanning diverse cultures and eras. |
| Luxembourg Gardens | Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil green space with statues, fountains, and a pond, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic in the heart of Paris. |
| Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica | Stroll through Montmartre, a historic, artistic district, and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of Paris from its hilltop perch. |
| Musée d’Orsay | Explore the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, and view an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet and Van Gogh. |
| Notre-Dame Cathedral | Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with stunning architecture, intricate stained glass, and panoramic views from its towers, despite ongoing repairs. |
| Seine River Cruise | Take a cruise along the Seine River to see Paris’s landmarks from the water, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame, while enjoying a relaxing boat ride. |
| Versailles Palace and Gardens | Wander through the opulent Palace of Versailles and its expansive gardens, exploring royal apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and meticulously landscaped grounds. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Paris has an extensive transport network, including metros, buses, trams, and RER trains, all accessible with a single ticket system. The city is also bike-friendly with public bike rentals. For ride-hailing, Uber and Bolt are widely used. The Citymapper and RATP apps are helpful for navigating public transport.
Seasonality and Weather
Paris experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-17°C (50-63°F) and blossoming flowers. Summer (June to August) is warm, with temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F), and occasional heatwaves. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler weather, around 10-16°C (50-61°F), with rain. Winter (December to February) is chilly, with temperatures from 3-7°C (37-45°F), and occasional frost or snow. The best time to visit is spring or early autumn, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Where to stay
Le Marais: Trendy and vibrant, with charming streets, boutiques, and a lively café culture.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A stylish, historic area with cafés, galleries, and a more local atmosphere.
Latin Quarter: Lively and budget-friendly, popular with students, offering vibrant nightlife and affordable dining.
Montmartre: Bohemian charm with artistic history, offering a more relaxed and scenic atmosphere.
Champs-Élysées: Upscale and centrally located, perfect for shopping and luxury stays.
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