Getting around can be expensive in taxis in the capital, so the best way to travel around is to walk where you can see so much of the city, but if you're not able, opt for the metro or buses. Uber is also available but traffic can be a problem. Be cautious of pick pockets on the metro. Keep your bag tucked under your arm, not hanging.
If you’re looking for something to do away from the museums, visit Luxembourg Gardens for a fun filled afternoon, which is Paris’s playground! The beautiful park is packed with activities for all ages, including boat racing, donkey rides, flower gardens as well as tennis and boules courts.
Paris is known for its remarkable sightseeing, boutique hotels and great restaurants, but if you’re planning a weekend in here, you must also take some time to do the mandatory shop. With some of the most sophisticated department stores and delightful hidden boutiques - Check out our shortlist of top shopping areas in Paris in the journal HERE
We recommend packing comfortable shoes as well for all the walking and sight seeing on offer around the city. Paris is a great city to wander and stumble across stunning areas, so we advise not to restrict yourself and allow time to explore all the city has to offer, especially with so many places to stop for coffee and the delicious cakes!
Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Le Marais, one of Paris’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Known for its medieval streets, historic architecture, and chic boutiques, this vibrant area is a perfect mix of old and new. Begin your exploration at Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris. Take in the symmetrical beauty of its red-brick arcades and neatly manicured gardens. From here, wander the cobbled streets and explore independent galleries, cafés, and shops along Rue des Francs-Bourgeois.
From Le Marais, walk toward the Seine River, where the sights become instantly more cinematic. Cross over to Île de la Cité, the heart of Paris, and visit the world-renowned Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. Though restoration is ongoing, the exterior remains a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece. Nearby, stop by Sainte-Chapelle, an extraordinary chapel famed for its stunning stained glass windows, bathed in an ethereal glow on a sunny day.
For something different to the usual tourist attraction, head to the bohemian heart of Paris: Montmartre. This hilltop neighbourhood, once home to artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec, retains its village-like charm with winding streets, quaint cafés, and breath-taking views.
You cannot go to Paris without seeing The Louvre, the world’s largest art museum and home to iconic works like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Even if you don’t have time for a deep dive into the vast collection, an hour spent wandering its hallowed halls will give you a taste of its grandeur.
Lastly, no trip to Paris would be complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower, Whether you choose to ascend to the top or simply admire it from the ground, this Parisian icon is a must-see. For the best views, head to Trocadéro for picture-perfect angles.
Be prepared to come back! The city is so huge and layered with all its history, architecture, and charm, you’d struggle to see it all even in 5 days with a strict itinerary. It is a city of discovery, so taking your time will give you the best memories.
