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Paris Travel Guide

Zach Cary -
June 11, 2025

Overview

Paris is packed with those iconic bucket list moments you’ve dreamed about. The most famous of these would easily be the Eiffel Tower, but other must-see spots include the Louvre’s masterpieces and the charming streets of Montmartre. In my opinion, you shouldn’t miss a sunset cruise on the Seine or hunting for vintage treasures at Marché aux Puces. Dive into this guide for everything you need to know!

Quick Facts About Paris:

Language

French

Currency

Euro (€)

Visa

Schengen visa rules apply (90-day visa-free for many nationalities)

Power Plugs

Type E

Religion

Capital

Climate

Mild summers, chilly winters

Apps

Bonjour RATP (metro), Bolt (taxis), The Fork (restaurant deals)

Flights Information for Paris:

Most travelers fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). CDG handles long-haul flights from the US, Asia, and beyond, while ORY serves more European routes. Budget airlines sometimes use Beauvais (BVA), but it’s 90 minutes from the city. You can shop for flights to Paris on Skyscanner.

Safety Information you should know before visiting Paris:

Paris is generally safe, but pickpockets target tourists in crowded spots like the metro. Even so, I’d recommend keeping your bag zipped. Avoid scams near Sacré-Cœur. Violent crime is rare, but stay alert at night in quieter arrondissements.

Climate

Paris has four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm (20-25°C/68-77°F) but can get crowded. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are honestly perfectly mild weather and fewer tourists. Winters (December-February) are cold (3-8°C/37-46°F) but magical around Christmas. I visited in May and loved the sunny, breezy days ideal for café terraces.

Budget:

Paris isn’t a budget destination, but your money can go further with smart choices. Hostels: Approx €35-50/night | Hotels: Approx €120+ | Meals: Approx €10-50 (Exact € ranges boost relevance). Meals range from Approx €10-15 for a bistro lunch to Approx €30-50 for dinner. The metro Approx (€1.90 per ride) is affordable, and many museums offer free first Sundays. With that said, splurge on at least one fancy pastry. It’s worth it.

Other Essential Info:

  • Getting Around: The metro is fast and covers everywhere. Avoid taxis unless necessary. Bolt is cheaper. Walking is best for central arrondissements.
  • Cultural Tips: Greet shopkeepers with Bonjour before asking questions. Dinner starts late (7:30 PM). Tipping? Round up or leave 5-10%.
  • Must-Download Apps: Citymapper (transport), Duolingo (basic French), Google Lens (translate menus).
  • Hidden Gems: Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (quirky museum), Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (locals’ favorite park), Le Comptoir Général (eclectic bar).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris safe for solo travelers?
Generally yes, but stay alert.
Best time to visit Paris?
April-June for perfect weather.
How many days do I need?
At least 4 to hit the highlights without rushing.

Zach Cary

Editor in Chief & General Manager

Zach Cary writes travel tips and budget travel guides for Travel and Diaries. His beat is the practical layer of every trip: what to pack for three climates in one country, how to avoid card fees abroad, which SIM to buy at the airport, and how to stretch a daily budget without making the trip worse. Zach's guides favor specifics over platitudes real price ranges, named apps, and tips tied to actual local rules rather than generic advice recycled across the internet. If a tip wouldn't survive contact with a real border, a real bus station, or a real currency exchange counter, he doesn't publish it.

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